Optimistic in the Midst of a Crisis: Week of April 3rd, 2020

Students, Faculty, Residents, Staff, Alumni Board Members and our many Friends,

It’s finally starting to look like spring in Elkins Park. Even with our shelter in place order in effect, I try to get to campus at least once a week to check on those few essential personnel who are there to assure our campus remains safe and our IT systems remain up and running.

What struck me this last time on campus, amid all the chaos and discouraging news about the pandemic, our pear and cherry trees are blooming, the daffodils and tulips are coming out of the ground and there was an air of peace and tranquility around our campus. In addition to taking a photo, I couldn’t help but stop and think how lucky we all are to be able to work, learn and come to a place that teaches others to heal while surrounded by a soothing environment. I couldn’t help but feel optimistic and encouraged by the sprouting of new life all around, even in the midst of this crisis.

The experts tell us things are going to get worse before they get better. It may be several months before we regain some sense of normalcy and even that will be different. Major events will be cancelled because bringing large groups together will be dangerous for many months out. Media will report the worst news, and sometimes even report about the good things people do to help each other. While all this is happening around us, it’s extremely important to maintain focused on our goals and those people closest to us. It’s also important to do everything you can to stay healthy, both physically and mentally. The physical part is the easiest one – social and physical distancing, washing our hands and staying at home. The mental part, well, that’s a little more difficult. Many of us are having a hard time sleeping. That’s perfectly normal during stressful times. Unfortunately, sleep deprivation makes everything seem worse and really does a job on our mental health. Our counseling team has put together several resources that I encourage all of you to check out.

On the home front, congratulations to Dr. Satya Verma who has been named to the National Optometry Hall of Fame. Dr. Verma will celebrate his 50th year on the PCO faculty in 2021. I cannot think of a more deserving recipient of this honor than Satya. To read more about Dr. Verma’s impressive career (and how we always mess up his birthday) click here. Dr. Verma is supposed to receive his award at the upcoming Optometry’s Meeting in June.

Finally, I want to end today’s update with a message of hope. Winston Churchill said, “The pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity. The optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty”. I know it’s difficult to see this now, but some good things will come out of this crisis. We will be smarter, more resilient, and will have learned to cope under difficult circumstances. I can’t help but think of those who lived under the threat of being bombed every night, not knowing if they’d live to see the next day during World War II. We will see the next day - and many more to follow. It’s important to maintain a positive attitude, look out for one another and continue to follow all the appropriate health guidelines. Your education will continue, our patients will return to our clinics and we will smarter, stronger and more thankful for the simple things surrounding us.

Atached is a photo of the USNS Comfort as she steamed into New York Harbor earlier this week. She serves not just as a floating hospital, but a symbol of caring and hope. When I saw that I felt a sense of pride – proud of the way we take care of our own. That’s what you’re all training to do – take care of others. Be proud, be brave and be safe.

Enjoy your weekend of social distancing and take note of the good things we all have. There still is much to be thankful for.

Mike