Saying Bravo! during a pandemic May 10, 2020 Karen McGrath, President and CEO, Horizon Health Network Amid this pandemic, support for our employees has been unwavering. Patients, clients, and our communities have stood behind our Horizon team, offering encouragement in many ways. And our staff and physicians have been supporting and recognizing their colleagues, too. One way they are acknowledging good work is by sending a Bravo! Because – regardless of what is going on in the world – recognition still matters. In fact, sometimes, the support of a colleague, a “thank you” from a manager, or a message from a grateful patient can be what helps lift and inspire our staff and physicians in challenging times. Likewise, sending a Bravo! can make your day, put a smile on your face, or remind you of the importance your team. Health care workers are on the frontlines of this pandemic and Horizon’s staff have lived our values as we wade through unchartered waters. That certainly deserves a Bravo! Horizon’s ValuesIf you need a refresher on our values, they are:– We show empathy, compassion and respect.– We strive for excellence.– We are all leaders, yet work as a team.– We act with integrity and are accountable. Our employees have continually met the challenges they have faced while planning for and responding to the COVID-19 pandemic – and the Bravos! they’ve received prove it! I’d like to share snippets from some of the COVID-19 related Bravos! our staff have received over the past several weeks. They made me feel proud to work for Horizon and I hope you feel the same way. You have been an exceptional leader, providing guidance, empathy, and compassion as we go through these unchartered waters.I am so proud of you, our facility, and all our co-workers. During this pandemic, you continue showing true compassion to help all patients, and families whether COVID-19 or not. You truly care and want to make things better, no matter what. Bravo! to our therapeutics staff and managers for your assistance in our COVID-19 response. Your willingness to volunteer for new roles, assist in screening, and work hours different from your typical work day is appreciated. You exemplify the best in our health professions, and we appreciate your leadership!I was nervous to leave quarantine with a compromised immune system due to cancer to do bloodwork prior to treatment. You greeted me at the door, explained protocol, and guided me through it. You chatted with me while I waited to take my mind off things, showed empathy to my concerns and gave me confidence in the situation. Over the coming weeks, we’ll be sharing COVID-19 related Bravos! on Horizon’s social media channels to highlight some of these acts of exceptional care and help spread some positivity and joy. Take a minute out of your day to send a Bravo! to someone you know deserves to be celebrated. I know I will. You can send a Bravo! in three easy steps: Go to Horizonbravo.caFill out the short recognition formClick “Submit Bravo!“ Thank you to all our Horizon employees for everything they do each day to keep our communities safe and healthy. You have responded to the call and we are fortunate to have you on the Horizon team.