A Letter to the Community: A wish for the New Year 

  

To the patients, families and communities we are proud to serve — 

It’s us, your local caregivers at St. Francis Hospital, who are reflecting on the coming New Year and have a wish that you can help make come true. 

We know you’re sick of COVID-19 — believe us when we say that we are, too. You’re sick of being told to get vaccinated, get boosted, wear your mask and avoid big crowds. We know you are tired of hearing about the surge and what you need to do to protect yourselves. You’re tired of shows and events being cancelled. You just want to get back to a normal life. 

But, we can’t. We keep our doors open to serve traumas, multiple types of illnesses, and yes, many COVID-19 patients, most of whom are unvaccinated. Our staffs are strained. Resources are strained. Capacity within our system is being pushed to the limit. 

We know we have to keep trying, and we will because you or your family may need us. We’re tired, but we’re not going anywhere. We’re here to treat you, support you and give you the very best of ourselves, whatever may come. But we need your help to keep our families and communities safe. We need your help to start 2022 with a chance to reduce COVID-19 numbers. And we know it’s not too late. 

Our wish this New Year is simple — please think twice. Do just one thing, take one more step to protect yourself and those around you. Don’t look back on this moment and think “if only.” If only I had stayed home when I was ill. If only I had worn a mask in crowded indoor areas. 

Please get vaccinated. Please get boosted. Please get tested. And please mask when you should. 

Sincerely, 

HSHS St. Francis Hospital