Tuesday, February 11, 2014

Libraries for Leslie

Yesterday, Leslie Creekmore, A Children's Librarian from Fort Smith, AR died from complications of the flu.   I did not know Leslie personally, but she will be missed by those who knew her and by the library community. Her loss has hit me hard.

Leslie  was originally hospitalized in January where she was quickly put into ICU and placed on a ventilator.  While hospitalized last month she gave birth at 20 weeks, but the baby did not survive.  Being pregnant myself, the news stories have been hard to watch and I cant stop the tears as I write this blog.  Now Leslie has passed from this world to join her child, leaving her husband behind as a survivor.

Several news outlets have reported on this story and it has reached national coverage because she was told NOT get get a flu shot during her first trimester.  This vaccine probably would have saved her life and the life of her child.

If you havent seen this tragic story I encourage you to do so.  Here is the local Fort Smith coverage.

There has been two campaigns started to help this family: A gofundme account and a t-shirt campaign entitled "Get Your Damn Flu Shot."  There has also be a facebook page created.

Libraries are about family and I think most of us in the library profession feel that way about each other. Step up and support Leslie's family and please get your flu shot!