All of us at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center have experienced unprecedented challenges this year; we also know these struggles will not disappear the moment we ring in 2021. However, I am sustained by glimmers of light and hope. Researchers are making headway in the development of effective COVID-19 vaccines. Penn Medicine has made strides on the path to dismantling systemic issues and embracing diversity, inclusion, and equity. Even the technical skills that we’ve cultivated through months of video calls and telemedicine appointments have expertly equipped us for a virtual holiday season.
I’ve also found hope in the stories our patients share with us, so many of which reaffirm that even in the toughest times, our inimitable staff go above and beyond to support our patients and their families. For example, I recently had the opportunity to read a touching letter sent by the mother of a patient with Down syndrome and post-traumatic stress disorder. The patient came to PPMC to undergo extensive oral surgery led by Neeraj Panchal, DDS, MD, who the letter described as “caring, considerate, and thorough.” The mother noted that everyone she encountered — from the security guard who welcomed them, to the nurse who gently caressed her son’s face to calm him, to the administrative assistant who offered an empathetic listening ear — adapted their approaches to meet her family’s unique needs and to provide a truly exceptional experience.
These stories fill me with pride and gratitude, and they also emphasize the importance of the adage, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” Resilience is critical, and in order to continue impacting patients, families, and colleagues in such positive ways, all of us must remember to extend this same care to ourselves. I encourage everyone to explore the mental health and wellness resources offered by Penn COBALT, an online support hub that also offers connections with peers, therapists, and psychiatrists. Our Employee Assistance Program also offers confidential, 24/7 support.
I am confident that if we reaffirm our commitment to learning from and adapting to change, maintain the compassion and dedication that define our team, and continue to lean on our personal and professional support systems, all of us at Penn Presbyterian will be able to overcome any obstacle the new year brings.