Celebrating Service : Well, it looks like spring has finally arrived. Everywhere I go there seems to be a collective sigh of TGIO – thank God it's over. It's been a long, hard winter for everyone and for those of us on the Warwick Health Care Campus, a very busy one.

Among the things keeping us busy, were the Hospital's JCAHO preparations and survey, DOH surveys of Radiology, Lab Services and Mount Alverno Center – not to mention the renovations and construction in the OR, Parking Lot and cafeteria. We had wonderful outcomes for all surveys, the newly renovated operation room is up and running and the parking lot should be back to full use shortly. I just want to say again, I know how hard all of you have worked during the past few months and I want to let you know how proud I am of all of you and how much I appreciate your exceptional efforts and team spirit. As always, you continue to demonstrate you dedication and commitment to those we care for and for each other. THANK YOU ALL

SPRING TIME HAPPENINGS : Springtime is the season associated with rebirth – it's that time of year when we think of planting new gardens, taking long walks and enjoying the outdoors. For those of us in healthcare it is also a season to celebrate service. It's also the time of year that we set aside to recognize and say thank you to those special people who have dedicated themselves to helping others. In March we celebrated National Doctors Day , and to show our appreciation for their dedication to our hospital and our patients we invited them to join us at a special Thank You Medical Staff Breakfast.

This month, from April 18 – 24, we will be celebrating Medical Laboratory Week and National Volunteer Week . On April 17, we will once again be participating in the AHA Heart Walk at OCCC – we are still looking for people to walk with us – if you're interested call Kathy Salvato or Sue Ernhart our team leaders. April is also the month that we host our annual Spring Ball – this year we are honoring two very special individuals – Dr. Harry Sayre, Jr. will receive our Lifetime Achievement Award and Dorothy “Deeps” Sanford will be honored with the Caring for Life Award. To both I send my congratulations and appreciation.

Then there is May, probably the busiest Month for celebrations here on the Warwick Health Care Campus. It is during May that we celebrate Older American's Month ; Nurse Week – May 6 – 12; Hospital and Healthcare Week – May 9 – 15; Emergency Medical Services Week , May 16 - 24; and Nursing Home Week , May 12 – 18. Plans are underway to celebrate and recognize the special efforts that you all make during the year – Stay tuned for more information as plans develop.

HOLIDAY MESSAGE: This week is a sacred time for both the Christian and Jewish faiths. With Easter and Passover holidays upon us we should remember that these are times of "joy and renewal" for us all. To many, these holy days represent some of the most profound hopes of humanity; I sincerely hope that this season is filled with love, renewal and good memories for you and your families. Thank you for the many gifts you give every day. May you and your families enjoy a Happy, Healthy and Holy Holiday . God Bless you all.