Christmas 2021

The last column I wrote for the holidays was in November, 2019. There was no knowledge then of COVID-19. Little could any of us imagine how topsy-turvy our lives would become. As I look back over the past two years I am grateful. Grateful that TFS lost no one we serve to COVID. Grateful for our dedicated staff who sacrificed so much to assure that outcome. They took on the isolation and incredible inconvenience. They were often overworked and always confused by the blitz of information and opinion being thrown at them, yet they soldiered on. Many of our families and conservators suffered the same in being denied access to their loved ones. It was necessary but hard to understand.

Work continues on the expansion of both our medical and psychiatric clinics. As the population we serve ages the ability to meet their needs internally has been of great benefit. It is our hope that the surrounding community will come to realize the benefits as well. I hope that all of you and yours have a very Merry Christmas and we at TFS hope the New Year brings all of us relief from the fear and isolation of the past two years.

Sincerely,

Ralph

One can hear the audible "zing" of a typewriter starting a new line as the close of 2021 nears. This has been a year of survival. Like many, TFS has struggled with staffing more than anytime in our history. The constant urgency has stretched us beyond our capabilities and we'd like to think we're better for it.

If you are a parent, family member, conservator or friend of a loved one at TFS, please consider thanking each staff that supports them. From the night and day staff, to the nurses and family teachers, to the various administrative team members, it truly takes a village to provide safe, stable and quality lives for the special people TFS serves. We are thankful for all of our dedicated staff.