Thanksgiving is not only a food fest and a time to get together with family and friends, but it also is a time to reflect on the things in life that we are grateful for. I’ve been thinking a lot about this lately, particularly after witnessing the impact of Lt. Menard’s death (the Worcester firefighter who recently lost his life in the line of duty) on our community. Unfortunately, it is tragic moments like this that make us pause a moment and think about what is important to us.

Here is what is important to me:

• My wife and three kids. Thanksgiving is an important holiday at our house – giving us a chance to take time off from our busy lives and reconnect as a family.
• All 14,000 UMass Memorial Health Care caregivers. It is an honor and a privilege to be your CEO. I’m reminded every day when I walk the halls of one of our hospitals about your incredible commitment to our patients and to each other.
• Our patients. Nothing brings more perspective to me than interacting with our patients. From minor lacerations to severe traumas, each and every patient reminds me how important all of our roles are in providing the best care possible. Everyone, Everyday.
• My team. The people I’m surrounded by every day keep me going – and they keep me on time and on track. From our administrative support team to our system’s core leadership team, they all work tirelessly to keep our organization (and me) moving in the right direction.

This Thanksgiving, I hope you can take some time to reflect on what you’re grateful for and have a chance to tell those you hold dear how much they mean to you. And for those who are working on this holiday, please know how grateful I am that you are taking time away from your loved ones so that we can keep our doors open to those who come to us in their greatest time of need.

Have a happy and safe Thanksgiving!

Eric