A Moment of Grateful Reflection

At this point, it’s somewhat of a cliché to say that 2020 has been a year like no other.

It is what we keep saying, though, because it’s true. This year has tested all of us mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually.

From months of uncertainty and constant change, to becoming arm-chair epidemiology experts, to grappling with longstanding issues of racial justice that received much needed attention, this year has been extra-ordinary to say the least.

If hindsight is 20/20, then the year 2020 will be one we reflect on for many years – for all we lost and all we gained – and for all we have learned about ourselves and our world.

And as I use this week to pause, reflect and intentionally express gratitude for what this year has revealed … the list of things to appreciate is long and fills me up with deep gratitude:

I am grateful for the courage of our incredible team at Atrium Health. I wake up each morning and fall asleep each evening humbled by the bravery of our teammates providing care for patients, addressing racial intolerance and making massive shifts in our daily work without hesitation.

I am grateful for the innovative spirit that yielded leaps in virtual care and solved countless operational challenges. From our nationally-leading Atrium Health Hospital at Home program, to our Connection Nurses who have helped patients virtually connect with loved ones, and tackling ever-changing treatment regimens for a brand new disease – our expertise and agility is saving lives and keeping our patients and community healthy. 

I am grateful that as we did all this, we never lost sight of our ‘FOR ALL’ mission at Atrium Health while eliminating COVID-19 testing disparities in our most vulnerable populations, distributing 2 million masks throughout the community, investing in affordable housing options, offering thousands of meals through our Kids East Free program, and meeting our patient’s needs – no matter their background or where they live.

And as the last part of this year approaches, I have something new to be grateful for – the creation of a new Atrium Health through our combination with Wake Forest Baptist Health. Through this combination, we will unite our strengths, knowledge and resources to deliver life-changing care for each and every community we are privileged to serve.

So, while this year’s holiday season will certainly be a little different, more than ever, I am incredibly thankful to be working alongside such dedicated and amazing teammates. Every day, I see countless examples of how they are bringing to life what it means to improve health, elevate hope and advance healing – FOR ALL.