Thank you, Orange County Heroes.

As a wife, mother, grandmother and 40-year-resident of Orange County, I’m inspired by and grateful for the extraordinary people in this community, and beyond, who are doing sacred work.

While we are at home practicing social distancing, health care professionals, emergency responders, grocery store workers, drivers, those in our vital supply chains and others are on the front lines of the COVID-19 outbreak, putting the needs of others ahead of their own.

As the leader of an organization dedicated to treating and curing cancer, the needs of our patients and their families are always top of mind. The courage and resilience of people with cancer are unmatched. Yet, times like these test the resolve of even the bravest among us. Please know that City of Hope is here for you, and we are doing everything we can to keep our patients, physicians and staff protected and safe.

This crisis has reminded us that what matters most is the way we love and care for one another. There have been many moments of astonishing beauty and kindness – applause for health care professionals, sidewalk chalk displays, even balcony symphonies to encourage those confined to their homes. This crisis also has shown us that our residents must have access to extraordinary care. We are more committed than ever before to fulfill our vision of our world-class cancer center in Orange County.

City of Hope was founded more than a century ago when a group of volunteers, spurred by compassion to help those impacted by a tuberculosis outbreak. That spirit of service never wavered. Now, more than ever, it’s flourishing among us.

Stay well, maintain hope, and thank you again.

Know that if you need us, we are here – today and always.

Annette M. Walker President, City of Hope Orange County