Hello Friends!

I hope that this letter finds you and your loved ones well.  As we close in on one month of sheltering-in-place, I reflect on how challenging these times have been on so many people.  As I mentioned in my letter last month, this time of year is normally my busiest work-related travel season.  I love visiting with our clients and partners across the U.S.  Like all of you, I am now hunkered down in my home.  I do identify with feelings of isolation since my day-to-day routine has drastically changed.  I am re-discovering (again!) that solitude is not the same as loneliness.  At the same time, I am deeply grateful that I have access to resources via the Amazing Care Network to help me cope.

While social distancing is essential right now, it is important that we do not place ourselves and our loved ones in social isolation.  Technology has afforded us the resources to stay connected with friends and family.  In a recent article by the John Hopkins Institute they suggest, “Social distancing doesn’t have to mean isolation or loneliness. We need to keep older adults safe, but also keep in mind that social isolation can have a negative impact on older people’s immunity and mental health.”  Read the full article HERE.

Call me old fashioned, but when I receive a handwritten card or note from someone, it always feels a bit more personal.  I know there are people who feel the same way.  In the past week, I rounded up like-minded volunteers to help me launch a card writing project.  We are handwriting cards to socially isolated seniors and shut-ins just to let them know that they are in our thoughts – and hopefully brighten their day just a little.  I encourage all of you to reach out to one another whether by phone, email, text or a handwritten note to stay connected during this time of physical and social distancing.  If you have an interest in joining our volunteer army of card-writers, please drop me a note, and I would love to include you.  Small acts of kindness can mean a lot!

Please be well and stay connected.  We are truly in this together!