To the Editor:
As last weekend’s winter storm swept across Martha’s Vineyard, our hospital — like so many essential services on the Island — depended on people showing up for one another so patients could continue to receive the care they needed.
I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the Island’s police departments for their extraordinary support during the storm. Between 3:30 pm on Sunday, Jan. 25, and 2 am on Monday, Jan. 26, officers from the Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, Tisbury, and West Tisbury police departments safely transported nine hospital employees, whose presence was critical to keeping the hospital running.
Because of this support, staff from Patient Access, Acute Nursing, Radiology, and Environmental Services/Housekeeping, as well as physicians, were able to reach the hospital during some of the most challenging conditions of the storm. Their arrival ensured that care continued without interruption for our patients and their families.
I also want to recognize our hospital staff, who balanced concern for their own safety and their families while still answering the call to care for others. Their professionalism, teamwork, and quiet determination are what sustain our hospital every day — and especially in moments like this.
This storm was yet another reminder of what makes our Island special: people looking out for one another when it matters most. On behalf of Martha’s Vineyard Hospital, thank you to our police departments, and to every staff member who helped us weather the storm. We are deeply grateful.
Claire Seguin, president and chief operating officer
Martha’s Vineyard Hospital