LIVINGSTON MEMORIAL VISITING NURSE ASSOCIATION
lmvna.org
(805) 642-0239
Spring 2018
Thomas Fire: Patients the Priority
D
espite blazes, blackouts, and evacuations due to the Thomas Fire, our staff saw to the medical, spiritual and psychosocial care of patients and clients — even though they themselves had been evacuated from their homes and their own fate was uncertain. Patient safety is our number one priority. Many of our patients had to be evacuated. In fact, all of our Ojai patients had to be moved. We tracked every evacuated patient every day and delivered services wherever they were needed — evacuation centers, hotels, churches, and even local hospitals. All told, 79 staff and patients were evacuated and 27 hospice patients were relocated to partner agencies. Command Center With so many moving pieces, it was imperative that we had a plan. Teresa Pavan, RN Vice President/COO, led a team who worked around-theclock. Our partner agencies heroically delivered supplies to patients. One company, Palmedeq, made sure
patients without power had fresh oxygen. At the command post, Jeannette Cunningham, Compliance and Privacy Officer, recalls, “It was not at all chaotic. Everyone kept calm and got the job done — all you had to do was ask.” Our staff was quick to cover for displaced colleagues. Many volunteered outside of work to help their neighbors by distributing blankets and masks at homeless camps to prepare meals for evacuees. Going the extra mile One of our CareGiver clients was trapped in Ojai. Wheelchair bound and without a husband, additional help or transportation, our staffmember helped her pack her precious belongings, drove her — the long way around — and helped her check into a hotel in Carpinteria. She stayed with her until another of her hired caregivers could meet to take over. A community comes together This disaster showed how a community can come together and make it through to the other side. So many agencies, businesses, and private citizens stood
Grief Support Services for Fire Victims For more information, call (805) 642-0239 ext 705 As we all begin to find our footing after the impact of the Thomas Fire, we would like you to know that our hearts go out to each and every one of you. We are here to acknowledge, hold and honor all of the emotions we are all experiencing as a result of these fires. We are here to provide grief support services to individuals and families within our community. Our openhearted counselors are here to offer presence and compassionate support throughout this trying time. Whether you have lost a home, lost pets or farm animals, were suddenly evacuated, are a first responder or if you are closely connected with those who have experienced a loss, we are here for you. As the imminent danger is behind us and we begin healing our community, we must all remember that everyone’s grief is valid and quite unique. It is important for us all to move forward with care and compassion. Remember to honor yourself and your experience. Remember to listen to others. And most importantly, return to your breath as you take life one moment at a time.
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