Haywood Regional Medical Center is proud to continue its Humans Who Heal campaign, a storytelling series dedicated to recognizing the people behind the scenes who make healing possible every day. From direct patient care to support services, every role in our hospital contributes to the safety, comfort, and overall well-being of our patients and staff.

This week, we are honored to spotlight Brandon Harrell, a dedicated team member in our Engineering Department, who has been serving at Haywood Regional for the past three years. Brandon’s work may happen outside of patient rooms, but its impact is felt throughout every hallway, department, and care unit.

What is your role at the hospital, and how long have you been here?
I work in the Engineering Department and have been at Haywood Regional for three years.

What inspired you to go into healthcare or your specific role?
I’ve always enjoyed meeting new people and wanted to be in a position where I could make a difference in people’s lives. Healthcare has given me that opportunity in a unique and fulfilling way.

How do you feel your work impacts patients or the community?
What we do in Engineering directly affects the safety and functionality of the hospital. From maintaining critical systems to responding quickly to issues, we’re helping to ensure this is a safe and reliable place for patients, staff, and the community. Keeping the hospital running well contributes to the overall health and safety of the people we serve.

Can you share a moment or memory that has stuck with you during your time here?
One moment that stands out is preparing for Hurricane Helene. We knew the hospital might see additional patients and increased needs from the community, so we worked closely with staff across departments to ensure everything was ready. It was a strong reminder of how we all pull together in times of crisis to protect and care for those who rely on us.

What does “healing” mean to you — whether physically, emotionally, or in another way?
Healing, to me, means getting your heart and mind into a positive place. It’s more than just recovering physically, it’s about being supported emotionally and mentally so you can move forward.

What’s something people might not know about your role or department?
There’s a lot more to Engineering than people realize. We handle heating and air conditioning, plumbing, fire safety systems, and countless other technical operations that keep the hospital functioning. It’s all about maintaining a safe environment where healing can happen without interruption.

The Humans Who Heal campaign continues to highlight individuals across every corner of our healthcare system, from bedside nurses and clinical coordinators to the essential staff who work behind the scenes. At Haywood Regional Medical Center, we believe healing is a team effort, and every role matters.