Army Veteran Rings the Bell After Completing Final Chemotherapy Treatment

Asheville, NC — With joy and enthusiasm, Army Veteran Patricia Ann Reynolds rose from her chair and pulled the cord of a bell, marking the end of her final chemotherapy session at the Charles George VA Medical Center.

Reynolds first learned about the oncology services at the 5-star-rated facility while living in Charleston, South Carolina. Confident in the care the center offered, she made the decision to relocate to Asheville to receive her treatment.

After approximately four months of chemotherapy, Reynolds wanted to celebrate this milestone with the dedicated employees who supported her throughout her healing journey.

“Keep doing what you are doing, because you are excellent and you are saving people’s lives,” she said moments before ringing the bell.

But the celebration didn’t end with the ringing of the bell. Reynolds also shared a special song she dedicated to the occasion, titled Ring That Bell (Oh Lord—Celebration Version), bringing even more unity to the moment.

Reynolds mentioned Taylor “Tanya” Vanreenen, a registered nurse, in her song as a way of expressing gratitude for the compassionate care she received.

“I like to bring joy and create a fun experience whenever I interact with Veterans, to help take their minds off what they are going through,” said Vanreenen. “Our entire team works together to ensure Veterans receive the compassionate care they deserve, and we are all thrilled for Ms. Reynolds—she brings light into the clinic every time she visits.”

Lyrics:

Oh Lord, you carried me when the dark was near

Held my hand through fear and dried each tear

Through every storm, your strength made me stand

Now I’m beatin’ cancer by the power of your hand

I ring that bell, let my heart proclaim

I ring that bell, in your holy name

Thank You, Lord for life, for breath in me

Thank You, Doc Oncologist-for care an empathy

And thank You, nurses- who stood by my side

Your faith, your love-kept hope alive

Thank you, Lord!

Your light brought me here!

Thank you, Doc!

Dr Oncologist you are the one!

Thank you, Nurse Tanya!

You wiped away fear!

I ring that bell, let my heart proclaim

I rang that bell, in my team’s name