A new opportunity to make a difference

Eleven months ago, Illinois' first COVID-19 case was diagnosed. Nine months ago, we were fully submerged in the terrible reality of this virus.

Eight months ago, we wrote to you in this very newspaper asking you to be diligent with protective measures, but also optimistic as we had begun to learn more about the disease and how to treat it. We knew that if you continued to social distance, wash your hands regularly and isolate if sick, you could have a real impact in the fight against this virus.

The suffering experienced throughout this past year because of this disease is unthinkable and yet, each of us has had an opportunity to make a difference each day. Today, we want to tell you of the new way you can make a difference, as we have taken another meaningful step toward ending the pandemic.

A week ago, the first COVID-19 vaccine was authorized by the FDA and this week, the first doses arrived at Northwest Community Healthcare and other area hospitals. Within days, approximately 2,000 nurses, doctors and paramedics from our front-line team had received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

As anticipated, there was a limited supply in this first round of distribution. Each of our employees has been assigned a tier based on their COVID-19 transmission risk level and, in accordance with CDC and Illinois Department of Public Health guidelines, front-line staff, mission critical personnel and paramedics were prioritized first. We anticipate regular shipments to begin in the near future, at which point all of the NCH team will have the opportunity to be vaccinated.

It is with great confidence in both the safety and efficacy of this vaccine that we urge all NCH employees - and every one of you - to be vaccinated as soon as the option becomes available.

To reach a post-pandemic life, widespread vaccinations are crucial. A decision to be vaccinated is not only a decision to protect yourself, but an opportunity to do your part to protect the community around you, to relieve front-line workers who have worked tirelessly over the last nine months to protect you and your family, and to help move the entire community forward to a healthier and happier future.

This again is your opportunity to make a difference - and we urge you to take it.

Alan B. Loren, Chief Medical Officer

Steve Scogna, Chief Executive Officer and President

Northwest Community Healthcare

Arlington Heights.