November 27, 2020
The past week has seen a sharp increase in COVID-19 cases both within our community and LHSC. I am sure I’m not alone in a rising sense of apprehension and dread that the collective “curve” continues to rise.
I want to assure you that LHSC remains a safe place to seek and receive care. We are actively working in collaboration with our partners at Middlesex-London Health Unit to address the COVID-19 outbreaks at University Hospital and I want to thank everyone whose efforts are helping to reduce transmission. Regrettably there have been two deaths associated with these outbreaks and LHSC shares its thoughts and sympathies with the families during this difficult time.
LHSC remains committed to doing everything within its power to ensure the health and safety of every individual, but this cannot be done without you.
The COVID-19 pandemic is an historic human tragedy and the need for keeping ourselves and each other safe has never been more critical. Our health-care workers are one of the most treasured resources on the planet in 2020, and they are tired.
Our LHSC people have been under enormous pressure since the beginning of the pandemic. In addition to the unprecedented public health emergency they continue to address while providing care for all those who need it, they have also experienced many of the same challenges that face our community including social isolation and concern for family and loved ones.
Like many of you, I care about our community. I care about my colleagues, my friends, and my family. I want to keep as many people as possible safe, and that collective accountability starts and ends with each one of us.
And so I urge you to please continue to follow the public health protocols that will help ensure the health and safety of every individual in our community. Wear a mask, wash your hands, adhere to physical distancing requirements, and do not socialize with others outside of your household. Collective accountability to these measures will get us safely through this pandemic.
The most respectful thing we can do for those we love is to protect ourselves and each other.
Dr. Paul Woods
President and CEO
London Health Sciences Centre
