Halifax County Tax Coordinator Doris Hawkins gave heartfelt thanks today to county commissioners and county staff for their understanding as she and her family for the past three months have dealt with her son Will’s recovery from a near-fatal injury.

“I thank you for your compassion and understanding,” Hawkins told commissioners after giving a tax department report. “I am forever grateful to you for allowing me to focus on my family.”

She said the time has been needed not only to focus on Will’s rehabilitation and recovery, but to support her daughter throughout the ordeal.

Hawkins was particularly grateful to Halifax County EMS, “In many cases you hear negative comments,” she said. “Their quick response and skills helped Will make it to Halifax Regional Medical Center and Vidant. We are blessed we live in a wonderful community.”

Prayers and support were overwhelming, she said. “We look forward to coming home as a family in the coming weeks.”

As Hawkins gets back in the tax business, she said, “I will do my best to serve the citizens of Halifax County. Home is where the heart is and our hearts reside in Halifax County even though we’ve been living in hotels and hospitals for the past three months.”

Board Chairman James Pierce responded, “There’s a reason why we serve. It’s because of this community. Godspeed to you and your family.”