Harrisburg University professor who created 3D face shields at start of pandemic dies of COVID-19
Updated Jan 14, 2021;
Posted Jan 13, 2021
Harrisburg University Professor Dr. Charles Chip Shearrow pictured on the right passed away from COVID-19 on Jan. 12. His son, Charles A Shearrow II, who helped his dad with creating 3D face shields, is in the center. Photo: Harrisburg University
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Following months of producing 3D face shield masks for frontline workers, Harrisburg University professor Charles Shearrow died Tuesday from his own battle with COVID-19.
Known as Chip to family, friends, and colleagues, the 61-year-old was the Advanced Manufacturing Program Lead professor at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology. When COVID-19 became a serious concern last year and personal protective equipment began to run low for frontline workers, Shearrow began problem-solving.
Advanced Manufacturing Program Lead Professor Dr. Charles (Chip) Shearrow produced more than 2,300 face shields for first responders and long-term care workers.
COVID-19 vaccination in nursing homes is a tale of bumpy logistics, fear and uncertainty about the future inquirer.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from inquirer.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
At Wesley Enhanced Living Doylestown, the first round of COVID-19 vaccines last week was an emotional moment.
“I cried, and other nurses were teary eyed,” said Maureen Casey, executive director of the 60-bed skilled nursing home where 13 residents have died after testing positive for the virus as of Dec. 29, according to state data.
Casey described the mood at the vaccine clinic on Dec. 30 as filled with positive energy and hopefulness.
Similar sentiments were echoed as vaccine rollouts began in Pennsylvania nursing homes, which are the epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic here and nationwide.
Last week vaccinations kicked off in the 693 Pennsylvania licensed nursing homes, according to the state. As of Wednesday, 378 nursing homes started or scheduled clinics including 11 of 32 facilities in Bucks and half the 60 in Montgomery counties.