Answering The Call To Care

Healthcare is a calling. A calling to care for others in need. As a chosen profession, it attracts those who dedicate their lives to serving humanity precisely when it is needed most.

Today, that call rings clearly, across our country and across the world. In the midst of the worst global pandemic in more than a century, we are called into the service of others. And each and every one of you has answered that call.

Many of you leave your families at home to come to work each day, not knowing what the day will bring. You are combatting a virus that has devastated the world, in order to care for our patients. You are called to care in the midst of great personal and professional sacrifice, as the current state of this pandemic grows more chaotic. And you respond.

The tirelessness and selflessness of your commitment during these unprecedented times is simply incredible, overwhelming and awe-inspiring. Times of crisis bring out the best and worst in human nature. Your commitment to caring reveals the absolute best that humanity has to offer.

During these past few weeks, I have witnessed so many acts of personal heroism, bravery, sacrifice and dedication at every level of our organization. You are the vital backbone of our hospital and our nation’s healthcare system. Your response to this crisis defines who we are, as individuals, as an organization, and as a country. And your response has been simply amazing. It inspires me and comforts me to know that we are TOGETHER in this fight. And make no mistake, it is a fight we WILL win.

Crisis either tears us apart or brings us together. At Stony Brook, it brings us together. We are united to fight a common enemy and to help others when they need us most, because we are called to care.

Thank you so much for everything you are doing. Stay Stony Brook Strong.

Carol