To Know Her is to Love Her

Here in the High Country, the word “community” means far more than just the people living in the same area. Our community is about the deep and dear connections we share, the support we give one another, and the way we come together in times of loss and need. For those of us that have lived elsewhere, we know just how unique and beautiful this community is. And we can confidently say that the people of the High County make this place feel like home.

Caitlin Zirkle is one of those people. Caitlin, an employee at UNC Health Appalachian, has been referred to as a friend, a leader, a teacher, an advocate, a mentor, and even an angel. She is known across the organization for her work around belonging and inclusion, being a voice for all employees, and the warmth she brings everywhere she goes.

As Hurricane Helene swept through our community, it also tore away Caitlin’s long-awaited wedding plans for Friday, September 27th, 2024. Even though her wedding day and celebrations were flipped upside down, Caitlin jumped into action, doing what she does best – caring for and supporting others. Every morning following the storm, she arrived at work before the sun even rose, organizing volunteers and her team, ensuring help was distributed where it was needed most during this time of crisis. She worked hard to contact employees that were unreachable, she arranged transportation for those in need and oversaw the donation and distribution of emergency supplies across the healthcare system. Even after long, exhausting days, she stayed late, determined to make sure her colleagues had what they needed.

Adding to Caitlin’s efforts was her now husband, Ryan, who was right by her side, offering support in every way that he could – even driving out to Creston, NC in Ashe County to check on one of Caitlin’s colleagues she had been unable to reach after the storm.

One colleague summed it up beautifully, “Without Caitlin’s incredible response during this catastrophic event, I genuinely believe that hurricane relief would not have been as organized and prompt as it was. She truly is an angel. To know her is to love her.”