Responding to the Highest Calling of Mankind

Courage. Fear. Triumph. Loss. Perseverance. Fatigue. Success. Failure. Resilience. Weakness. Togetherness. Loneliness. And in the midst of it all: Persistence. Commitment. Endurance. Survival. Will.

This past year has been a true emotional rollercoaster, like no other. Was it only a year ago that we opened the new Children’s Hospital? It seems like a lifetime ago. So much has happened. So much has changed.

Yet through it all, we have held together as a team. Because it is only as a team that we could possibly survive and meet head on the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic.

The highs have been high; the lows have been low. And now, as we start to receive the first doses of vaccine and see brighter days ahead, we are responding to a second wave of patients. At times, it has been almost unbearable. At times, we have all wanted to throw up our hands and say “enough.”

And yet, the human spirit prevails. Even in our darkest moments, a light somewhere shines. A patient who turns the corner and goes home. A smile from a co-worker. A shared laugh. A shared tear. A hug. We console and support each other – creating in the process a shared bond, a shared understanding that will never be forgotten, that will never be broken.

Normally this is a festive time of year. But this year is like no other. We all wish to be with our loved ones, our families, our friends. But in some cases that will not be possible. In some instances, they are no longer with us, or we are choosing the safe and prudent course, to slow the spread of the virus.

To all of you who have responded so bravely and courageously, to the highest calling of mankind to care for one another, thank you so very much. You have earned the eternal thanks of our patients and their families, and the community we serve. Your deeds, your efforts will never be forgotten.

In the spirit of these holidays, blessings to you and your loved ones, now more than ever. May the new year bring us all the peace and tranquility that our hearts and souls yearn to feel.

Carol