Alan Garrett: Next few weeks, months crucial in coronavirus fight (Voices)

As we approach the end of this memorable year, I can’t help but reflect on how much we still have to be thankful for at Carson Tahoe Health.

Thankful for our dedicated healthcare providers, hospital and administrative staff who remain steadfast in their mission to provide the very best care possible to all of our patients. I’m so very thankful for our team’s ability to be focused, yet flexible, in this constantly evolving healthcare crisis.

Thankful for every business and each individual donor who has supported us this year. Your gifts of cards, handmade masks, meals, signs and financial gifts alike not only encouraged us during this challenging year, but also have been on-going reminders of HOPE.

Thankful for our community, and those families who’ve had to make self-sacrifices for the good of all of us. Wearing your masks in public, maintaining safe social distances and avoiding crowds and gatherings may seem like small contributions, but they really do make a positive difference.

I realize many of us are likely to look back on 2020 as a difficult year, a time period marked by the challenges brought by the pandemic.

Our community here at Carson Tahoe Health, and the broader community of healthcare across our country and globe, have endured a great sacrifice.

But when thinking back, despite all of the obstacles, the overwhelming community support and dedication of us all has been a beacon of light, inspiring, encouraging and guiding us forward.

Together, we’ve endured over eight months of hardship, heartache and sacrifice. Now, as the winter months and holiday season arrives, I must remind you all to please continue to be diligent and responsible.

I can’t stress this enough, but we all play an essential role in slowing the spread of this virus in our community. These next few weeks and months will play a crucial role in our fight against the coronavirus.

As cold weather pushes us indoors, and holiday traditions draw us closer to loved ones, I am asking you all to remember the overwhelming risk our community, including our dedicated healthcare heroes, are still facing.

Please, continue to wear a mask in public and when you’re with individuals outside of your immediate household. Continue to practice social distancing and avoid crowds and indoor group gatherings. Finally, continue to wash your hands, avoid touching your face and maintain proper hygiene every day.

This holiday season may not look the way we all expected, but if we continue to do our part, including spreading love and hope, we will likely find there’s even more to be thankful for next Thanksgiving.

Alan Garrett is President and CEO of Carson Tahoe Health.