News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Cookeville Regional Medical Center honored longtime chaplain Kelly Stockton at its Board of Trustees meeting Thursday night.
Stockton said he has been working at the hospital since 2010. He said he is constantly inspired by the hospital employees for their dedication and drive.
“Especially through the COVID issue, those folks, every department in this hospital was giving everything they have to give,” Stockton said. “When I see those hearts, and that passion, and that care and love for patients, and care for the families, where else could I work around people like that?”
Stockton said he first got into this line of work after receiving an opportunity from the hospital’s previous chaplain. He said he urges ministers that are in ministry to examine where they are. He said it is a great avenue to touch people’s hearts without a mission to simply grow a church.
Stockton said the hospital sees many cases where patients come in with no family or friends and die alone. He said through his position, he is able to help those folks and bring them peace and comfort.
“If you really want to be blessed, really want to be blessed, this is the place to do it,” Stockton said.
