I’m guessing you, like me, are more than glad to say good bye to the emotional roller coaster that was 2020. From angst to heartbreak, from gratitude to longing, I’m sure you’ve experienced thoughts and emotions you couldn’t have imagined before this pandemic hit us.
At the same time, I invite you to join me in looking ahead to 2021 with a new sense of hope. I can’t remember a time when I was so ready for a new year to take hold. We enter 2021 with a new vaccine at our door, another one on the way, an improved financial outlook and a better understanding of how to care for COVID-19 patients. I believe our patience, resilience and exceptional patient care, which you have all continued to demonstrate throughout this past year with grace and excellence, will lead us out of this pandemic and back to normalcy.
This is when we begin to take action, and to turn the tide on the coronavirus. It is also when we can join forces and do what we do best — help our community to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Many will be fearful, skeptical, even resistant to the vaccines and their efficacy. We can help and take action by sharing our knowledge of science and clinical trials in a way that alleviates fears, dispels myths and reinforces important public health and safety measures during the pandemic.
Although we are off to a good start with our vaccination program here at Michigan Medicine, we have a long road ahead of us. I know that everyone is likely feeling fatigue as this pandemic has stressed our entire system. But I have seen the moments of caring and kindness you have shown to our patients. I’ve watched creative solutions evolve in record time out of necessity. I have witnessed the resiliency you show each and every day. This is why I know you are the ones who can and will lead the charge for our communities.
Because the road ahead is a long one, I hope you took some time to rest and recharge with the ones you care about most. If this year has taught me anything, it’s to always remember that the most important things in my life is how important are my relationships with loved ones.
This past year reminded me that our core values can sometimes get lost in our hectic, busy lives. Good health, safety, security, and family took on new meaning for me, both personally and professionally. Never before have I been so acutely aware of our critical role in caring for sick people and restoring their health. I am grateful for your support of our mission, vision and core values.
I wish you and your loved ones a happy and safe New Year.
What are your hopes for 2021? Do you have an interesting New Year’s resolution? Share them with us as part of our discussion on my Minute with Marschall Blog.