Winter 2022 Clinical Updates Page 2 to 4
Friends and Colleagues,
Did any one of you honestly think that in February 2022 we would still be navigating a global pandemic? Appointments & Recognition Page 6 & 7 New on Staff Page 6 Provider Personalities Page 7
I certainly did not. Nevertheless, here we are. We have turned the page on another year, the season of resolutions and new beginnings is upon us. As 2022 begins, I have been thinking about the need to acknowledge that we are not going back, and instead think about how we move forward. How we realize that there are things to be gained from this crazy life we’ve been living. There is a phrase, I have found that the exact origins are in debate, but I find it impactful nonetheless... “It is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness.” Think about that for a moment. It gives us power and encouragement to move forward. It harnesses the imagery and positivity of light.
Engagement Page 8 & 9 House Calls Page 10
Across cultures, religions, age groups and periods of history, the description of those recounting a near death experience is remarkably similar. Some describe floating, or seeing people gone before them. But nearly universally, there is a commonality of “seeing the light” and a description that the light gave a sense of overwhelming calm. No one knows, what the physiologic origin of “the light” may be. Or if we, as human beings, understand light as a positive symbol and gravitate to images of it. Light symbolizes many things to many people. In religions that celebrate Christmas, the light of a star signals the news of a savior. Diwali celebrates the triumph over darkness for Hindus. For the Jewish community, the great symbol of Hanukkah, light, reminds us that even in the most challenging of times, hope never recedes. With light comes possibility, opportunity, and the promise of a better tomorrow. Many cultures and religions have festivals of light, with a common theme of victory over darkness. In 2022, I am going to try my best to focus on positivity, to light that candle, to show light to someone else. Remember all the times since March of 2020, that you have already done this. Make a conscious effort to do it now on a regular basis. We have kept patients safe. We have provided them with the best care we could give every day we have come to work. We have developed practices and protocols to adapt to our surroundings, and in some cases have already acknowledged they are better for patient care than the “old way.” I have seen the strength of teams and personal relationships ensure that colleagues have made it through, even when coverage and staffing seemed impossible. Maybe if we take some time and look around, we can find a candle to light. We can continue to help each other, and dispel the darkness.
Heather Walker, MD President, Excela Medical Staff
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