Making a Difference, Together: Letter to the Editor By Denise George, president, Northern Dutchess Hospital

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Rhinebeck, NY — April 10, 2020

Making a Difference, Together: Letter to the Editor By Denise George, president, Northern Dutchess Hospital

Northern Dutchess and Ulster County have always been a region with charming small towns and wonderfully caring people. Understandably, anxieties about COVID-19 have made our communities feel like different places. While we cannot physically embrace each other, local healthcare workers have never before felt surrounded by so much kindheartedness. Perhaps the best example of this in the hospital’s 91-year history was the Healthcare Worker Salute Parade on April 8 organized by the Village of Rhinebeck. Hundreds of people came out to wave, share signs and cheer us on as they drove around the Northern Dutchess Hospital and Thompson House campus. Our staff and physicians were so very thankful and wish for me to express their gratitude to those who helped organize and who took part. While this was one moment in time, you have provided comfort to those on the frontlines that will not be forgotten for years to come. We will get through this and beat COVID-19. We will do it together and our communities will be stronger than ever before. Thank you.

Denise George

President Northern Dutchess Hospital