Perspectives from Steve Leffler, MD
My Thoughts on How COVID-19 is Affecting Us All
March 24, 2020, 11AM
Good morning,
Depending on where you work and what you do, each of us are experiencing a wide range of emotions about this incredibly challenging time.
For those on the front lines of patient care, it can be very concerning to be caring for others, while balancing that we also need to take care of ourselves and our families. We know this is what we signed up for – caring for those who need us most. But there's a tug-of-war between our dedication to our work and our own personal feelings about how difficult and scary this is.
Others of us are coping with a different kind of fear: the sudden loss of work because areas of our hospital have essentially shut down. It's understandable to be concerned about your livelihood and wonder how long it will go on, and how you'll support your families. I want you to know that we are working very hard to minimize the effects of this disruption on you. We are a big family of 8000 people and your leaders are fully focused on helping all of us get through this safely and with the least possible impact.
Some of us are working from home, upending our home lives, leaving us feeling disconnected from our friends and colleagues. Our leaders are torn between wanting to be there to support their teams, and knowing it's their responsibility to model social distancing.
Further disrupting our lives are the school and day care closures. Trying to do your job from home while meeting the needs of your kids is very, very challenging.
Many of us are in a cycle of worry - and it's easy to start feeling isolated and alone with our fears.
Despite all this, I know that, together, we will get through this. Remind yourself every day, every hour: you're doing the best you can. Take time when and where you can – take a walk, take a moment, call a friend or a loved one.
I can't tell you exactly what's about to come but please know that I have unwavering faith in all of you. I am humbled to see the amazing things each of you do every day to care for our patients and support each other. I am confident that we will get through this difficult and extremely challenging time and we will do it with grace, courage and compassion.
Thank you so much for all you do.
Steve
Stephen Leffler, MD
President & Chief Operating Officer
President & Chief Operating Officer
UVM Medical Center