March 1, 2022
Dear Alpha Omega Chapter Members,
By all measures 2021 was a historic year as it marked year two of the pandemic but punctuated by hope as vaccines became available across the country. Nurses stepped up to take on the challenge of getting vaccinated while continuing to face insurmountable tasks of continuing to care for the Covid-sick and getting ready for the influx of patients who were returning back into the health system following a year of being at home. You remained undeterred through several waves of the pandemic beginning with the winter of 2021 surge, a summer of Delta, followed by a sudden wave of Omicron at the end of the year. You continued to so what nurses do best – provide care without complaint even though the environment had changed and your mental health was suffering for it.
While we all remain hopeful that 2022 will bring a change in how the pandemic is understood, appreciated, respected, and eventually handled, we are also cognizant that the challenges will continue to impact our towns, neighbors, and ourselves. In preparation for what is to come, no matter what it might be, I ask that we continue to be mindful of our resilience resources and recognize our psychological needs if we are to continue to produce at the level that is required of us all. While we will continue to do our best as the noble professionals that we are, it is imperative that we acknowledge the toll that the pandemic has had on us and seek out resources and assistance that are available to us.
My hope is that 2022 becomes the year that nurses recognize the strength that we possess given the many challenges that we have faced over the recent past. I also hope that as a profession we recognize the value that we all have in moving the profession forward and that in the future when we frame our narratives to reflect on our current situation, the picture that will emerge is one where we were there for each other with patience, kindness, and empathy.
Finally, in the face of the current international crisis culminating in the Ukrainian invasion, this unprovoked war and its impact will affect us all. So I ask that we stand in support of the Ukrainian people, that we seek to understand their plight even though we will never be able to truly appreciate their challenges, that we learn from them and their leader's sacrifice and eventual resilience, and that we never forget that tyranny in its many forms must be stopped and never tolerated. (Below, I have included an email of support on this subject from STTI)
I am very proud of you all and please reach out if you need anything from your Chapter.
Charles E. Cal
President: 2020-2022
Alpha Omega Chapter of STTI
"Sigma's statement on Ukraine" in its entirety sent on 2/26/2022
Sigma, its international board of directors, and staff stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and support the nurses and healthcare workers tending to those affected by the widespread violence and destruction of the Russian military invasion.
Protect nurses and healthcare workers
When military action creates a humanitarian crisis, nurses and healthcare workers are placed directly in danger on the frontlines. With our colleagues at the International Council of Nurses, we call for the protection of health workers in accordance with the Geneva Convention and international regulations.
Provide assistance
As this crisis unfolds, you may wonder how you can help. The following reputable organizations seek assistance to provide care and alleviate suffering in Ukraine:
In the face of conflict, we reflect that Sigma’s founders based the society on values of love, courage, and honor.
To the citizens of and our colleagues in Ukraine: We send and show our love. We applaud your courage. We honor your dedication and work.
And we hope for peace.
Thank you.