Most health facilities have very restrictive visitor policies for high-risk populations due to COVID-19.  Typically, the policy is NO VISITORS or very limited visits based on individual patient needs.  These policies reflect the current situations but so far, visitations that have been allowed have happened with very restrictive precautions. 

 

Imagine being 'protected' in one room and not having a hand to hold to help you heal or to face your own health situation without your loved ones physically with you and the 'essential' people that can come into your room are gowned, gloved,  and wearing masks.

 

This is the reality.   Patients must, therefore, rely 24/7 on the skills and compassion of the essential workers that include: custodial staff, dietary, techs, SLPs, OTs, PTs, administration, nurses, and doctors.  In every role,  essential workers are there in our absence! 

     

Our gratitude seems essential. 

 

If you can even imagine having to stay in just one room...all day, every day. Have YOU ever lost your independence and had to completely rely on other people for every single thing...if you can imagine the angst in not being able to visit a loved one when they need you the most...then you will understand the importance of this mission.   If you only have to imagine it, then consider yourself fortunate.

 

My wish is that you enjoy creating these high fives as much as I hope the people receiving them might feel. The process is important.  Your time, effort, and compassion is art, it is hope.  It is a light that will shine because of your willingness to act.