Over the course of three months, COVID-19 has dramatically changed our lives. As we adjust to our “new normal,” never before have our roles as health care professionals been more difficult, nor have they ever been more critical to the well-being of our community. I’ve seen Pennsylvania Hospital’s staff in action — fighting against a pandemic on the front lines, leading critical research behind the scenes, stepping in to support each other when anxieties mount — and my Pennsy Pride has truly never been stronger. And I’m not the only one who is in awe of our employees’ stamina, compassionate spirit, and resolve.
Since the very beginning of this crisis, our local community has rallied behind us, offering support and resources in abundance.
I cannot overstate my gratitude for the 10,000 surgical masks we received from the Philadelphia United Chinese American Community Organization, or for the 1,700+ meals that Fuel the Fight Philly has donated to our workforce. I am humbled by the generosity of the dozens of local organizations and businesses that have donated thousands of pounds of food to keep our staff nourished, skin care products to soothe their scrubbed hands, and coffee to help them power through even the most challenging days. Our Pennsy Pride & Gratitude Board is filled with heartfelt thank you notes, motivational cards, and beautiful art, and it has become such a source of joy and inspiration for all who pass by.
These contributions ensure that our staff are equipped to deliver lifesaving care and fulfill their responsibilities as normally as possible in these unprecedented times, but this flood of generosity from all corners of our community also underscores the enduring connections that we’ve forged. Our Good Samaritan seal illustrates PAH’s unwavering commitment to care for the community, and this crisis has shown that this commitment is mutual. Even when we all must keep our distance, our community stands together.