I hope everyone is staying safe and healthy. It continues to be the top priority at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). As I mentioned before, please visit our online information center regularly for updates on COVID-19. 

In order to maintain our social distancing, our team continues to work remotely. I am certain that few people would have predicted that we would be looking at our new normal. When we do return to our offices, like so many others, I am sure we will have new ways of socializing. For those of us who rely on personal relationships for staying connected, it may be a challenge.

Over the holidays, our staff ironically gave me a book called “Calm the Chaos,” obviously not realizing how relevant this may be. It is a daily practice for a peaceful life (they may know me too well). It is a great reminder to focus on our well-being and mental health, especially when you may be isolated from family, colleagues, and close friends. 

I hope that each of you are taking time to exercise, getting enough rest, enjoying the sunshine, and thinking of ways we can perform an act of kindness for others. The Office of Development and Alumni Affairs has been reaching out to our frontline care providers weekly with words of gratitude, encouragement, and meals as an example. Thank you for what you are doing to support the efforts of all of our care team members and others in our community. 

Stay well and we look forward to seeing you in person once again.

Linda