As we approach the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, it is worth noting that the concept of a national day of thanks is not unique to the United States. More than 15 other countries have a day of thanksgiving sometime during the year.
Many of these began in some way as a thanks for bountiful harvest but have evolved into days of general thanks. Most celebrations involve the combination of special foods and feasts in combination with social gatherings that both celebrate a successful harvest and the unique cultural background of the country and its people. I can remember being introduced to "mooncakes" during a visit to China in October several years ago, a pastry which is part of that country’s "thanksgiving" tradition.
If one looks back on the events that have transpired over the last year, despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we and the world certainly have much for which to be thankful. Much of it is due to the triumph of science, coupled with a dedicated health care and public health workforce. Over the last year, we have had the final development and widespread distribution in the United States and other parts of the world of not one, but multiple, incredibly effective and safe vaccines to prevent severe COVID-19 disease. Effective therapies to prevent progression and treat active disease have been introduced, with two new oral drugs likely available in the not-too-distant future.
That said, we are among the fortunate, as many worldwide and even within our own nation do not yet have full access to these lifesaving therapies, reflecting the lack of equity of health care within our country and globally. COVID is not going to disappear due solely to local measures only. It is a worldwide problem that will only be brought under eventual control through global efforts.
While the pandemic itself is becoming treatable and preventable with vaccines and medication, the human toll continues. This toll includes not only those who are or have loved ones infected, but also those who have been dedicating themselves to the care of these individuals for the past two years.
It is the support of other human beings – family, friends, colleagues – that is most critical to that healing. Like most of you, I have had friends and family members infected, leading in some cases to untimely deaths as well as long-term COVID. I have also experienced, albeit to a much more limited extent than many colleagues, the challenges of providing care to COVID-19 patients, as well as patients with other diseases whose care is negatively impacted by the additional burden to the health system from the pandemic.
Certainly, this coming Thursday, but in fact every day, I will give thanks for the privilege of being part of a group of talented and dedicated individuals who have responded so remarkably to the needs of our fellow human beings. But we also must continue to recognize the ongoing need to support and heal one another. Take time for yourselves and to spend with friends and family, not just this Thanksgiving, but throughout the year.
Thanks to you all, particularly those of you who will be spending part of your Thanksgiving providing care to those who need your talents.
I wish each of you a happy Thanksgiving!