The Shift Report - Gratitude Edition - November 2020

Gratitude

grat·​i·​tude | noun the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.

November 2020

SPECIAL EDITION

Fort Belvoir Community Hospital Command Director Navy Captain Cynthia Judy Chief of Staff Navy Captain Saira Aslam Command Senior Enlisted Leader Command Sergeant Major Kristy Cortner

• Mission • Committed to outstanding patient experience through safe, quality, compassionate care for all we serve.

• Vision • The premier Community Health System, leading the nation in innovative healthcare and well-being.

• Values • Member and Partners Organizational and Personal Learning Patient and Family-Centered Excellence Valuing Workforce Engaged Leadership Stewardship

The Shift Report Staff Editor in Chief:

Stephanie Grooms

Editor/Photography:

Reese Brown

Visual Information:

Stephanie Grooms and Tobias Morelli

Announcements:

LaTonya Jackson

“We Lead ... One Team!”

The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Fort Belvoir Community Hospital, the Defense Health Agency, Department of Defense, or U.S. Government.

Discussion of any commercial products within this publication does not create nor imply any Federal/DoD endorsement.

Unless otherwise indicated (and except for “by permission” and copyright items), materials may be reprinted provided credit is given to photographer and the author.

Happy 245th Birthday Navy Chaplain Corps By: LTJG Rich Hollinger Belvoir Hospital Department of Pastoral Services

Although being a part of ministry for over 15 years, I’ve found my role as a Navy Chaplain quite different than working in civilian ministry setting.

Meetings did not include Operational Risk Management discussions and slides, nor did they focus on implementing an appropriate plan of the day to accommodate for division members to go to the gym. In no way is this a complaint, it is just two (of many) examples that come with working as both Minister and Naval Officer. These differences are shared because it is within this unique position that we celebrate the Navy Chaplain Corps on its 245th birthday. As one reflects on the life of the Chaplain Corps, one would see the value the Corps brings to a command as Chaplains and Religious Program Specialists intentionally care for those who bring heart and soul to a lifeless vessel.

Chaplain John Frazier was the first Chaplain appointed as Chief of Navy Chaplains. One of his first duties was to unify the Chaplain Corps; bringing structure to the Corps’ organization and highlighting the distinctive

character traits of a Navy Chaplain.

One of his efforts was authoring the first Chaplain’s Manual (1917). In this he compares chaplaincy with a battleship. He recognized both being complex; one being a “fighting machine” and chaplaincy aiming for influencing “a broader spirit of sympathy and helpfulness.” Although they have obvious differences, and their combative tactics and goals are different, Frazier did not miss the fact that a battleship is useless without the contributions of its crew. These men and women are the ones who bring the ship to life. Yes, they labor to maintain and preserve the ship’s structure and function, but they also put their hearts and souls into it as well.

The Navy’s Core Values are applied as they conduct themselves honorably while accomplishing the mission.

They are committed to showing up and putting in the needed hours, so when called upon they can embrace the courage needed to engage in any conflict. Like the ship, the crew needs some valued maintenance as well. They need someone willing to extend compassion, gentleness, and grace. Qualities that may not always be shared among other Unrestricted Line Officers and Enlisted (who may not always know success within their office if they assumed the Ministry Team’s characteristics). Thus the beauty within

the Chaplain Corps, and the honorable role in joining those who give a ship its heart and soul as they give a fighting machine life.

Although focused on the heart and soul of others, ministry teams possess other characteristics as well. Frazier continues writing, “these three [qualities] must not be lacking: ‘Grace, Grit, and Gumption.’” This is quite true for our Chaplain Corps today.

Grace is needed because too many times service members put unrealistic expectations upon themselves, yet Chaplain Corps members help guide them to understand their authentic role in the larger military organization and help them navigate their humanity within their communities.

Corps members need to do well with being in, and embracing, the grit, not only in counseling and advising service members in life’s truths but in the physical environments; meeting the

needs of the people and the mission.

To be out in the elements away from comfortable chapels. Visiting the 120° engine room to check-in with the ship’s engineers. And, to provide divine representation on a battlefield as a non-combatant. This grit also applies to a Corps member’s initiative and the courage he/she has within. Not just to go out on the battle field but to be a part of strategizing how the hearts and souls of the Navy will be cared for.

Chaplain Frazier’s words still encourage the Chaplain Corps today. Although the technology and forms of the Navy have changed, the truth of caring for service members continues. Happy Birthday Chaplain Corps! And, may you continue to come alongside those who give heart and soul to our fighting services.

We’re

Grateful.

2020 has been a year of trial and tribulations, a year of sadness, a year of tragedy and a year of uncertainties. However, despite all the negative, 2020 has also been a year of resilience, bravery, selflessness and, above all, gratitude. In light of the upcoming Thanksgiving Holiday, we asked various Belvoir Hospital Team Members what they are grateful for, and in their own words, this is what they had to say‌

“My second family. Mrs. Beaumont, Ms. Youssef, Mr. Dahir. I love my team!”

-Fabiola O Irizarry LPN, Family Medicine/ Procedure Clinic

“Friends & Family, those close and far who make a point to stay connected. Work, the ability to use and expand my skills both professionally and personally. My Pets, Gunny and Chief, during this time they remind to take a break go for a walk, be intentional in taking time for me. I am thankful for time, regardless on how my Thanksgiving table looks this year, I feel a sense of peace. We made it! ” -Ms. Ana Schoot LPN, ABOH

“I’m thankful for family and also friends because I have my family who loves me. I am thankful for my safe home. I am also thankful to have good friends, and my job. I am thankful for GOD who gives me good health, family and friends.”

-Nanu Dabu MA, Family Medicine “I am thankful for my health, happiness and for my family.”

-Jennifer McKean “Friends that become your Linen Service Worker, Linen family, the generosity of others, the kindness of neighbors and the technology available to “My faith. It has sustained me, as video chat with loved ones who promised.” are far away. “ -Trasie M. Phillips -Amber Scharbo Social Worker, Health Educator, Armed Forces Behavioral Health Wellness Center

“My family; both at home and work. I have the love and support of my wife and two daughters who see me off to the scary world of the pandemic each day and express their pride. That pride helps give me motivation to do my best for each of our patients. My work family, including leadership, have been incredibly supportive in the midst of deployment and arrival of our daughter in these unusual times. I have never felt as supported as a nurse and service member before encountering this great team.”

-LT Justin Williams, NC, USN Staff Nurse/ED “I hate that the country is hurting and turned upside down - but I am thankful I have the ability and right to speak how I feel about it. I hate that my son is sick- but I am thankful I am able and have the means to make him better.

I hate anything with peas - but I am thankful I can put peas on the table to feed my family. I hate being stuck in traffic - but I am thankful to have a car that works.

I hate that the roof of my house leaks - but I am thankful to still have one over my head. I hate that I can not see my parents for the holidays - but I am thankful I can still pick up the phone and call them. I am thankful for all these blessings and so much more!”

-MAJ Stacie Gibson Nursing Department “Having such a strong, healthy, and happy family. I am also thankful for being able to have the experience of being stationed at a beautiful post where I serve among amazing people, and I get to come home every night to my family for the duration of my time at Fort Belvoir. Any Soldier can be thankful for that! “ -SGT Niko V.A. Lowry NCOIC, Anesthesia/Pain Clinic “I’m grateful that God woke me up this morning to see a new day. There are so many couldn’t get up this morning, evening but I am thankful to be counted among the living. Grateful that

my children, husband and family member are all safe. I’m thankful for what I have, I am thankful for the sun that shines. Thankful for breath I breathe. This year is a rough year but through it all I’m still alive, I am not better than those are gone. Through it all I’ve learned to trust in God. This year family we’re going to be far away from each other but God will be with his children.”

-Pauline Kpue Nursing Assistant, HEM/ONC

is always there for me no matter what. My health. My taxes I have to pay because that means I am employed. Good music, jokes, and laughs. The huge pile of laundry because that means loved ones are near by. My Keurig coffee maker. Dirty dishes because that means I have food to eat. Technology because I can see and talk to my family in Germany. Teachers because that means my children are learning. Healthcare workers, first responders, and essential workers because that means I can survive. The alarm that goes off every morning because that means I am alive!”

-Sandra Markle Clinical Occupational Health Tech, Occupational Health

“I am thankful for my family and for the people that God has placed in my life. Whether I have had times of struggle or have been in abundance, God has always provided and made a way.”

-LaToya M. Hayes PA, Orthopedics “Food! Especially turkey. My family and my friends” -Patrick A. Stolz “My son and daughter who are Clinical Pharmacist, the greatest things in the world Behavioral Health to me. My husband who is always so appreciative, understanding, and supporting. My family who

“For all my blessings over my family, friends and my staff and Job. For good health,finding Joy in each day (even with COVID) and find a reason to smile each and every day. Happy Thanksgiving everyone.”

-Merry-Anna Gladstone HIM-PAD, Dumfries Health Ctr.

“I am thankful for my/family Life, my/family Health and the strength that I have on a daily base. Have a bless day. “ -Vanessa Dozier Admin. Assistant, Facilities

“For having a roof over my head, food on table, friends and family brings life meaning, holiday food and tradition, a job and the “For the Five Family Members beautiful things in life.” that lost their lives this year and -Blanca E. Roman the love of the family that is MSA, Gastroentrology still here. I am grateful for the way I have matured and grown during the challenges the year “Being healthy and COVID-free has brought to us. I am grateful The ability to telework and being for being able to experience gainfully employed. Having friends, the insight about myself during family, loved ones, and good support these times and the desire to be systems. #IFINALLYlikeVirgina” the best I can be. I am so very -Danielle Bega-Silva grateful for the goodness and Clinical Supervisor, Family sweet nature the people I am Advocacy Program blessed to work with. I am very grateful for the days to come” -Angelia L. Crew-Scott Administrative Support, Radiology

“The compassionate care provided to me when I fractured my leg in January at the Hospital.

My department, the hospital leadership, Patient Advocacy, Ops Team, SFC Barber, SFC Balion, Dr. Rochell and other numerous staff, too many to name, were always checking on me and supporting me through my ongoing healing process. I am incredibly gracious to the ER staff, the EMTs, CDR White, and the Ortho/OR dept for saving my leg. Also, I’m so very thankful for the actions Ms. Page and CPT Newcomb took immediately to prevent further injury.”

-SFC Clinton Long Senior NCO, Quality Management “I am thankful for my health, a home and a job to come to every day.”

-Regina McCloud Administrator, Logistics “God’s Grace and mercy in my life!

He’s been so good to me. For my family, friends and associates. For

health, food, clothing and shelter.

For being able to see another day, for employment and salary. For the hope of a better tomorrow for our nation, for our children.

For FAITH that trouble doesn’t last always. “ -Ms. Virgle Paul Medical Librarian,DETR/GME “All the professionals working at FBCH, especially the ones that respond to my “Help” e-mails from our beneficiaries. Thank You!” -Constance Kemple Executive Assistant, Command Group “My family because without them I wouldn’t be here. Thanksgiving falls just between 2 days that changed my life. Organ Donation is a selfless gift that means more than you’ll ever know for the recipient & their family. I was lucky that I had the love of family each time I needed a kidney, 20 years between the dates. I’m also thankful for my job. Also, the wonderful co-workers & friends

that I have met these past 5 years at the Pentagon. I was never able to be in the military and I feel that the work I do as a Physical Therapist Assistant is my way to give back. I love what I do and have been a PTA for 26½ years. “ -Charlotte Wolfe PTA, DTCH-PT “I am thankful for my wife, Kaitlyn.

I tend to work crazy hours here in the Emergency Department due to the department being Short staffed and my wife has not ever complained. She works hard to take care of our 2 sons, Noah and Wyatt as well as make sure that I am properly prepared for every shift. She never complains and always has the most beautiful smile on her face. Thank you Kaitlyn, I love you. ” -SGT Steven Sexton Medic, Emergency Department

our patients in navigating this complicated process that COVID has forced upon us. They have been amazingly flexible as we have asked them to do more and more. Thank you for your persistence and everything you do every day! “ -LCDR Evan Romrell Outpatient OIC, Pharmacy “A military community here at Fort Belvoir that recognizes, cares for and fully supports our LGBT families such as my own. In these trying times, I am thankful that our diversity remains an extremely powerful asset in fulfilling the ONE TEAM mission.”

-LTC James C. League-Pascual OIC, Staff Pediatrician Pediatrics

“My family and my health. My 6th floor staff and the care they provide each day.“ -LCDR Chad Smith “This Thanksgiving, I am thankful CNOIC 6th Floor, Nursing for an amazing staff that work Department SO hard everyday assisting

“I’m thankful to be blessed with everything I need. I have a healthy family who loves me, a few good friends, food on my table, a roof over my head and a job that I love. My family and I woke up to see another day with good health. I’m rich with life!! Happy Thanksgiving” -Andrea Ausberry-McNell MSA, 7North Telemetry

“The incredible work of all the team members at FBCH who are safe guarding the health of the force, the health of the community, and the health of me and my family.

Your collective perseverance and resilience are what make FBCH so strong. One Team! “ -LTC Kaitlyn Perkins Battalion Commander, Troop Command FBCH

“To have made it through the COVID-19 pandemic without losing my focus on the importance of my life, my purpose, and the affect I have on others. My students have trusted me through this tough season and we have made it together and with much success. I am thankful and appreciate SFC Gavit and CPT Q for checking on me each and every day especially during these times. I am thankful for a supportive family and friends to keep me appreciative of the good things and reminding me that trouble does not last always.”

-Britta Babel 68K MLT Program Manager, Pathology

“My children and family’s health. I am thankful for my job, my friends, and distant family. I am especially thankful for God and all he has done for us.”

-Tina Underhill Registered Nurse, 6S Pediatrics “This has been a very special year for me. I’m thankful for being healthy and alive, virus free and happy to be part of FBCH family.

Let us celebrate this Thanksgiving with family, at home and be safe.”

-Justin Abedin Database Manager, IM/IT

“I’m thankful for my life, health and strength and my family’s as well. Although we’re not able to visit due to COVID-19, knowing that GOD has provided such technology where we can still visit one another is AWESOME. GOD is faithful and just and He’s definitely in control of everything we understand but especially what we don’t understand or comprehend. His ways are not our ways nor His thoughts are like ours. What a mighty God!” -Hope E. Jackson Training Coordinator, HEAT “That our Heavenly Father has BLESSED me and my entire family Dixon, Vanzego and the Watkins with his WHOLE ARMOR of PROTECTION and perfect HEALTH through this PANDEMIC. Thank you Lord!!!”

-Ronald A. Dixon IT Telecommunication, IM/IT “Good health- too often we take for granted how our bodies help us to see, hear, smell, taste, listen,

talk, walk, write, hug, kiss, breathe, think and practically experience all the world has to offer. I am also truly thankful for the kindness of my workplace family. “ -Tonya Conyers-Alston Respiratory Therapist, Pulmonary Medicine “I’m Thankful for my Family. We have our ups and downs, but they really are my foundation.

I’m Thankful for my Directorate Leadership. We have an amazing Director,CDR Sprague, Deputy Director , Mr. Heath and Excellent HSS Team, Mr. Bumbry, Mr. Waldon, Ms. Battles and Ms. Hayes. They have truly supported me a great deal through the year to exceed my expectations at work and I’m so lucky to have them. Finally, I’m Thankful for the Holidays.

There’s something incredibly exciting about them (especially Thanksgiving!!).”

-Josie Hayes Supervisory HSS, DCS/Pharmacy

“I am thankful for GOD grace and mercy, my family and all the front line worker for all they do. Happy Thanksgiving to ALL.” -Loretta McCauley Supply Tech, IM/IT “Being back Stateside and able to spend Thanksgiving with my children’s American side of the family. I am also thankful that God has blessed me with the gift of being a Granny which will happen in June of 2021.”

-CSM Louise Drumm CSM, Troop Command “I am thankful for each day I live and all the blessings life can give....“ -Clay Supply Specialist, Logistics

our country, and themselves!

Every time I meet with a new staff member, they tell me about the welcoming, professional, caring team that surrounds them.

Blessed.“ -CAPT Aaron Werbel Director, Behavioral Health “My wonderful position at Fort Belvoir Community Hospital and the terrific staff that coordinates the care of our patients and supports each other during these difficult times. :)” -Rachel Jameson NSQIP SCR, Surgical Services

“My children and family’s health. I am thankful for my job, my friends, and distant family. I am especially thankful for God and all he has done for us.”

-Tina Underhill “An inspirational staff filled Registered Nurse, 6S Pediatrics with talented caring individuals working as a team to demonstrate sensitive, empathic, evidence- “I am thankful for family, friends, and based, ways to be good to their cellphones. Thankful for increased patients, each other, our mission, communication. The coronavirus

shutdown gave me time to talk my family and friends because I can’t go anywhere. “ -Victoria Cobbs LPN, Pediatric Clinic “So many things! Good health, having a job, having a job that is meaningful, my family, having enough to eat. Also little things we take for granted, like hot running water and electricity!”

-Liz Green Psychiatrist, Adult Behavioral Health “The INCREDIBLE Flu Mission team I was blessed to work with this year - you are all amazing!”

-LTJG Antoinette Mantz Flu Mission OIC, Public Health Nursing “Our team’s adaptability, ingenuity, and resilience during the COVID-19 Pandemic.”

-Heather Turner Deputy Chief, Clinical Staff Services

I can’t express enough my immense pride and satisfaction to the entire pharmacy staff, to include the wonderful curbside volunteers from throughout the hospital, for their devotion to the FBCH mission and untold hours of work during this COVID pandemic. They have and continue to be an inspiration to me and give me strength each day to be the best leader I can be. I truly stand on the shoulders of 120+ giants and I couldn’t be prouder to lead such a diverse and caring team of health care professionals. I am so blessed!

-LCDR Jesse Schmidt Chief, Pharmacy A wonderful, loving wife; two healthy and thriving children; and 579 of the most dedicated and professional staff working in what is pound for pound the best hospital in the Military Health System. Thank you for all that you do on a daily basis to provide safe and reliable healthcare to almost 100,000 beneficiaries. ONE TEAM. -Scott Williams Director, DMS

“My beautiful family and our newest edition, Silas, who is healthy and thriving. I am thankful for every waking day free of COVID-19, and pray for those who are suffering through this pandemic. I most thankful for our strong health care community and their endurance, strength and resilience. Thank God for Jesus!”

-Allegra Halyard Assistant CNOIC, 7N “Like many others...this year has really made me reflect on life at entirely new level. I am Thankful for my family’s continued good health as well as my own. I look forward to putting the pandemic behind us and getting back to the ‘good ole days’ but remembering and appreciating all we have learned about what really makes a life more fulfilling. Being surrounded by those that you love and care about. Wishing you a beautiful and Happy Thanksgiving <3” -CAPT Rosemary Perdue COVID Support, Command Suite

“I am incredibly gracious to the ER staff, the EMTs, CDR White, and the Ortho/OR dept for saving my leg. Also, I’m so very thankful for the immediate actions Ms. Page and CPT Newcomb took to prevent further injury. At times the recovery process has been more difficult than I am willing to admit, but the PACU, ICU, 6 & 7 North Teams, ancillary services of radiology, TBI, Physical Therapy and the Greeters all have made me feel like a true VIP! Thank You all for everything you do day in and day out as well as what you did for me!”

-SFC Clinton Long NCO, Quality Management “I am thankful for all efforts from those who facilitate learning through simulationbased education. Because of you, our providers continue to grow in self-efficacy to care for our military warriors and their families. Thank you.”

-Sunny Yager Chief, Simulation

“My family’s and my health, and for expecting a baby girl in late December!

-Kate Saba Medical Technologist, Pathology “My “Work Family” who has helped me grow as a person, nurse, and leader. ” -MiRey Vogt Head Nurse, Nuerology Clinic “GOD - for being with us and sending us your angels, and love!

For letting us know that you are in control and to come to you with our thoughts, prayers, questions, fears, and anxiety and just knowing you can overcome ALL that! Thank you God, for keeping my family safe and healthy - one touch from you and you can clear all of our medical conditions, and heal us. God, thank you for my family - I love them so much! Thank you for keeping them healthy and safe. Thank you for the healthcare staff working hard to keep our loved ones safe! “ -Mikhail Cytotechnicain, Pathology

Website: tricare.mil/mtf/belvoirhospital Facebook: facebook.com/belvoirhospital Twitter: @belvoirhospital

9300 DeWitt Loop Fort Belvoir, VA 22060 Information: (571) 231-FBCH (3224) TTY: (571) 231-1799 Appointments: (855) 227-6331