As I write this message to you, it is with wonder that we are now moving into almost half of this year being behind us. I believe that we can all agree, 2020 will certainly be one for the history books.
This monthly message is my means of sharing with you the happenings in Pickering Manor, but also my thoughts on various topics and how they relate to us. First and foremost, we have all become weary with the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic in our lives. Whether it’s the inconvenience of not being able to find cleaning supplies or paper products in our local supermarket; the discomfort of being masked when in public, or the lack of social interaction that has resulted from the concern of spreading the virus; all of us have been affected. I know that some have lost parents, spouses and lifelong friends...and to you, I am deeply sorry that you had to be separated from them throughout that time.
What all this has meant to our residents is one of seclusion and isolation from their families. We try really hard to make sure that we connect through FaceTime, phone calls and scheduled “Porch Visits” with their families, where the residents remain on the porch and the families can visit with them while standing on the lawn. Thank goodness Mr. Pickering made the incredible decision to have that beautiful wrap-around porch; I believe he would be proud it is being used so often!
We are proud that we are 3 1/2 months into all this and remain COVID-19-free. We realize this status could change at any time, but we continue to be vigilant and responsive. We are also preparing to utilize a universal test-based strategy that will continue as we move into a reopening phase. We received word this week that PA will extend restrictions on Nursing Homes for at least 28 days past the time the county enters into a green phase; once more, emphasizing the impact that we care for the most vulnerable.
And lastly, the events that have plagued us of late have become one more heavy burden that we all must address. I am deeply disturbed and want you all to know that as the leader of Pickering Manor, I am invested to listening to the needs of others and welcome the conversations of diversity and inclusion. As a country, we must do better....and it begins in our homes, our workplaces, and our communities with one conversation, and then another.
With peace and humility,
Michelle
Michelle Knobloch
Chief Executive Officer
