When our region went into lockdown in mid-March, it was hard to picture the year ahead. The pandemic forced us to reimagine the ways we teach, provide therapy, and safely care for our residential clients. It took an enormous, collaborative effort to meet the unexpected challenges of 2020, yet, time and time again, our team rose to the occasion and continued to serve others with kindness and compassion.<\/p>\n
Our teachers demonstrated creativity and a problem-solving spirit as they shifted to online learning. Our therapists found new ways to reach clients at home using telehealth. And our direct service providers worked tirelessly to support residents who were often struggling to adapt to the \u201cnew normal.\u201d Parents and family members made sacrifices as well, whether that meant supporting their child\u2019s remote learning while working from home or postponing in-person visits with loved ones to prevent spreading Covid-19.<\/p>\n
While 2020 was not easy, I am proud of what we accomplished as a community. When the pandemic was gaining a foothold in March, Grafton rolled out sweeping Covid-19 safety measures about two weeks ahead of most other organizations in the country. I believe that decision\u2014coupled with an ongoing commitment to mask-wearing, hand washing, social distancing, and other safety measures\u2014is why, to date, no clients in our care have tested positive for COVID-19. That is something for which I am truly grateful.<\/p>\n
As we head into 2021, we are not out of the woods yet\u2014but we can see a light at the end of the tunnel. We are hopeful that Grafton\u2019s clients and staff will soon be approved for early access to a Covid-19 vaccine. This will be an important first step towards safely reopening the doors of our schools and resuming family visits and community outings. While these things may not happen overnight, we are optimistic that a sense of normalcy is coming later this year.<\/p>\n
I know more challenges lie ahead; however, Grafton\u2019s devoted team and supportive community give me confidence that we can overcome whatever 2021 has in store.<\/p>\n