Southwest Louisiana Regional Medical Director Recognized for Service During COVID-19 Pandemic

Dr. Lacey Cavanaugh, regional medical director for the Louisiana Department of Health’s (LDH) Southwest Office of Public Health (OPH Region 5), was recently awarded the Louisiana National Guard’s (LANG) Distinguished Civilian Service Award for her efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The award was presented by Major General Keith Waddell, adjutant general of LANG, at a ceremony held at the Southwest OPH regional office in Lake Charles. The medal is reserved for civilians who provide exceptional service to the state of Louisiana’s well-being.

“Dr. Cavanaugh and the LDH staff were instrumental in providing guidance and mentorship to the Louisiana National Guard over the last two years,” said Cpt. Thomas Mushenski, who has served with Dr. Cavanaugh since the beginning of the pandemic. “She is a remarkable leader who rendered exceptionally meritorious service in furthering the security and welfare of the state of Louisiana.”

As medical director, Dr. Cavanaugh oversees OPH operations throughout Region 5, which comprises Calcasieu, Beauregard, Allen, Cameron and Jefferson Davis parishes.

Dr. Cavanaugh and Captain Mushenski led an award ceremony last month in honor of the LANG soldiers who were critical to LDH’s COVID-19 response. In recognition of their service, they presented awards to each member. Throughout the global COVID pandemic, LANG soldiers worked tirelessly to serve the communities of Southwest Louisiana. Many more lives would have undoubtedly been lost if not for their efforts and expertise.

LANG’s contributions included running testing facilities, administering vaccines, transporting personal protective equipment, and distributing COVID tests over the counter. LANG has coordinated over 700 vaccination events and over 1,200 testing events in Region 5 alone.

Dr. Cavanaugh told the troops their service was essential in saving lives and reducing the spread of COVID-19, while Captain Mushenski thanked his soldiers for their excellence in carrying out orders.

“Our LANG partners have been an incredible asset throughout this COVID journey — we could not have done it without them. The OPH Region 5 team is forever thankful for all of the support throughout the last two years,” said Dr. Cavanaugh.

Information and featured image from Louisiana Department of Health.