Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. It’s a time to reflect and focus on what truly matters. As I write this message, I want you to know how grateful I am to all of you — our faculty and staff — working as a team every day, ensuring our patients receive exceptional care. The impact of these actions is reflected in letters of gratitude we receive from our patients and families. Whether I’m visiting a patient on a unit, participating on Red Sneaker rounds, touring guests through the hospital or just walking through the halls, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing your compassion and selflessness firsthand, and every act of kindness fills me with Stony Brook Medicine pride.
I have a deep appreciation for everything you do. Whether there is an emergency repair needed in the middle of the night or the need to comfort a young child by playing puzzles and games while his mother receives difficult news, these moments reflect the dedication, empathy and hard work that define Stony Brook Medicine. These are real-life scenarios that depict what happens in our hospitals regularly. No matter your role, each of you place your heart and soul into caring for our patients and each other. That spirit truly sets us apart from others.
When I think about Thanksgiving, I picture gathering around a table with family and friends whom I care about, admire and respect. And in many ways, that’s what I experience here at Stony Brook Medicine. When we come together, I feel as though I’m sitting at the table with my extended family in an environment that fosters warmth, compassion and connectedness, which fills me with gratitude and a sense of humanity.
I also want to share my heartfelt thanks to those who will be working on Thanksgiving to care for our patients. I hope you are still able to find moments of rest and relaxation with your own loved ones. I will be rounding throughout the hospital on Thursday and look forward to interacting with many of you.
As we head into the holiday, I wish you safe travels, meaningful time with the people you care about and a wonderful Thanksgiving. Thank you for your devotion and commitment during the holiday season and throughout the entire year. I feel so honored to work alongside you.
With heartfelt thanks, today and always,
Carol