To paraphrase a popular quote, life is 10 percent what happens to you and 90 percent how you respond to it. At Stony Brook, we have reacted with incredible courage, strength, determination, commitment and teamwork to the coronavirus pandemic.
Now, at long last, there is light at the end of the tunnel. More than a year after COVID-19 disrupted our lives, we have the chance at returning to some semblance of normalcy.
Our lives and the lives of those we know and love, are doubtless changed forever. Many of us lost loved ones, friends and family members, or know someone who did. Many of us witnessed firsthand the devastation, heartbreak and grief, caring for our patients in their final days and responding as best we could to the incredible surge of patients who came through our doors. Through it all, Stony Brook has played a major leadership role for our community and our region. Whether it was patient care, testing or vaccines, we stood strong and met our community’s needs. Now it is time to meet our own needs.
As summer comes on and we are finally able to take a deep breath (in some cases, without a mask!), it is time to prioritize a deeply deserved rest from the rigors of the past 18 months.
Be kind to yourselves. Take time for a deep breath, take time to rest and recharge, and take stock of all that is precious and valuable in this world. Take time to grieve your losses and celebrate your victories. Hug a friend, lift a glass, shed a tear, console your heart and soul.
We know that the battle has been wearying, and the breaking point has always been near. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for all that you have done. You have forever earned my gratitude and the gratitude of those you have served so well.
Carol