When I think back over the past year and a half as our society continues to navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic, I remain in awe of the incredible show of collaboration, partnership and support that not only our organization, but our community as a whole, has demonstrated.

Everyone has sacrificed in many ways. We’ve lost loved ones. Businesses have had to close. We had to put plans on hold; change our routines. Our nation lived for months under many unknowns. There is no way to generalize the effects of this pandemic because each experience is individual and personal. It will take us all some time to heal physically and emotionally.

As the weather continues to warm and we spend some time identifying our “new normal,” we encourage you to take time and reflect on what is best for you and those you love.

If your physical health has been put on hold, reconnect with a provider and get back on track. Our new MyChart options are keeping you more aware and in control of your health than ever. If self-care got put on the backburner, take time for a mental and emotional health reboot. 

Men, June is Men’s Health Month. Use it as inspiration to get or keep on top of your unique health needs so you can continue to be around for those who depend on you. Ladies, take inspiration from our Journey to Health spotlight, the story of local daycare owner Mrs. Buffy Shelton and her journey as a breast cancer survivor.

In March 2020 when COVID-19 hit our doorstep and CRH began altering our operations — adapting services, keeping our patients cared for and informing, protecting and equipping our workforce — we couldn’t have known where this pandemic road would lead us. However, we knew one thing would always remain — our commitment to you, to our patients, to each other  and the region we serve. And that commitment and our appreciation  for your continued trust remains our inspiration.

Jim Bickel, President and CEO