Parade was good medicine for George Hooks and his family

TOP PHOTO:  Reece Hooks looks for her grandfather George Hooks as she rides through the parade with her Aunt Faye Comer behind the wheel.

LAFOLLETTE, TN (WLAF) – On Thursday afternoon under hot sunshine, George Hooks’ family came out to see him in person for the first time since mid-March.  In light of visitor restrictions at the La Follette Health & Rehabilitation Center due to COVID-19 concerns, staff members came up with a novel idea; a “Family and Community Parade.”  See Charlie Hutson’s photo gallery HERE.

Daughters, Faye Comer and Debbie Petree, said prior to March, one of them was there everyday to see their father.  “We’re hoping for the return to those in-person visits,” said Petree.

George Hooks, II, (above) along with his daughters, Reece and Addy were on hand along with friend Natasha Stevens.  George Hooks, the man being honored by his family, was also able to see his great grand daughter Emma Grace Comer who was riding in the maroon vehicle.

The parade was a wonderful opportunity for family members and residents alike.  Hooks, who turned 83, on March 9, has had family visits online via Duo, but he prefers seeing them in person.  Thursday’s parade offered that opportunity if only for a distance wave and “I love you” exchanges.  (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 08/28/2020-6AM-PHOTOS COURTESY OF WLAF’S CHARLIE HUTSON)