Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday because it’s the one holiday that focuses on getting together with family and friends to give thanks to each another. Although this year will be like no other we’ve seen before, there is still a lot to be thankful for – even if that means showing thanks from afar.
Healthcare workers across the nation have put their patients first all year as we’ve faced a global pandemic. Their selflessness and resilience are things I know I am thankful for, so I’d like to take this opportunity to thank our clients and all essential workers for their continued commitment to the health and wellness of their communities.
As this is the season of giving thanks and showing care for one another, my wish is for all to act differently this holiday season. Think about your broader community and how your actions can greatly help flatten the COVID-19 curve. Your community includes your immediate and extended family, friends, neighbors and co-workers. Please think about the elderly, those who are most vulnerable and those who have pre-existing health conditions. These people may be in your own family and could include your siblings, parents, grandparents or even aunts and uncles.
COVID-19 continues to threaten the lives of so many people, not just in the United States, but around the world. As such, we must be vigilant and follow CDC guidelines for proper social distancing, keeping holiday gatherings to small groups of loved ones and wearing masks when in public areas. It also means following quarantine guidance or taking advantage of free testing, for example, if your children return home from college or you have guests from out of state.
I realize we are all tired of COVID-19 and want it to be over. We all want our lives to go back to normal. Unfortunately, cases are rising in almost every state across the country. At the same time, I think it’s important that we spend time together on Thanksgiving to reconnect with family and friends, albeit in smaller group settings.
Find ways to keep traditions alive – either over Zoom or in-person. Watch football, each some great food and enjoy each other’s company; just be smart about it. Find creative ways to see friends and neighbors while adhering to the guidelines and… WEAR A MASK!
If we all try, we can make a difference in our communities and eventually give thanks once again in person. That’s what Thanksgiving is all about.
Happy Thanksgiving to all of you in our HealthcareSource community!
-Michael Grossi
