PREVENT THE SPREAD OF COVID-19

Issue No. 21, Vol. 5 Clean your hands Keep your distance Wear a mask June 2020 HorizonSTAR A publication for the staff of Horizon Health Network

Collaboration. Opportunity. Perseverance. Resilience. A collection of stories, profiles and letters highlighting Horizon’s response to the COVID-19 crisis

IAL EDITION SPEC A welcome note from Contents the editor

Dear Staff, Physicians and Volunteers, Welcome to a special edition of the Horizon Star! This issue features stories, profiles and letters highlighting the collaboration, opportunity, perseverance and resilience shown In the first six months of this year it’s likely you have experienced things that by staff, physicians and our communities during Horizon’s most don’t experience in a lifetime. The same goes for us as an organization — preparation and response to the COVID-19 pandemic over the as One Horizon it has certainly been an extraordinary start to 2020. past several months. 4 5 6 7 As soon as COVID-19 arrived in we quickly evolved; we adapted It is a delicate balance — highlighting these “good news” stories, Boosting morale through ‘Cleaning’ the way through Painting windows of hope at Paying it forward our practices, precautions and policies within our facilities to lower the risk of when we know that our work is not yet done. Our work is not photographs COVID-19 Horizon’s TMH ‘Sometimes a social worker the virus spreading, protecting one another, yet back to normal, our lives certainly aren’t back to normal and Proper donning and doffing Staff member shares life- ‘Even apart, we can conquer needs a social worker’ our most vulnerable patients and all of our we’ll work and live differently than we did pre-COVID-19 for the communities. foreseeable future. of PPE changing ED visit COVID-19 together’ It takes a team This has certainly meant many changes to the But, this space has always been one of recognition, joy, and way you work and your work environment. happy tears, and this issue is no different. Whether you are screening patients and I was so happy to hear that many of you felt the same way. 3 designated visitors at our front doors, Thank you to all those who submitted story ideas, and to the taking virtual appointments with clients at Communications team for putting those ideas into the stories community health centres, enhancing your you see in the pages today. cleaning protocols, or swabbing surgical patients at our assessment centres, you’re These stories are just a snapshot of all of the amazing and kind gestures happening across our organization daily, and I adapting and adjusting to ensure you provide know there are so many amazing stories out there. Here, I will safe and quality health care to all your patients also note some photos were snapped at different stages in our and clients. physical distancing and mask-wearing policies and the majority This is a big ask of you, and one that of photos were submitted by the teams/staff they featured, in inevitably comes with stress and anxiety, and order to reduce foot traffic in areas that we do not work. it’s important now more than ever that our I’m happy to say we’ll be back later this month with a regular caretakers take care of themselves. Karen McGrath President and CEO issue featuring all those stories that were supposed to run in the April issue, and more. 8 9 10 11 That’s why I hope you are leaning in to your Survival kits deliver COVID delights The COVID Fairy Recreation Therapy uses support systems at work — whether through a conversation with your manager, As always, it’s an honor to share your stories, and I hope you’ll happiness in a bag technology to support patients a virtual check-in with your counterpart in another facility, or the mental health continue to reach me at [email protected] with new A ‘beary’ happy HR Operations Community Developers join resources pulled together by our Mental Health and Human Resources teams. ideas. Mental Health family local partners to tackle food IT team’s work crucial to staff mindful of self care insecurity pandemic response We must also continue to be role models for those we care for and their loved Happy reading, Pharmacy director boosts morale ones. They will look to us as examples as we continue to live and work in this new environment. We can do this by cleaning our hands, practicing physical distancing and wearing a mask. I am always fortunate and proud to be your President and CEO, but never more so than during this time. Thank you for the leadership and collaboration GinaBeth Roberts This magazine is published by Horizon you have shown during this difficult time, and I hope you find enjoyment and Editor, Horizon Star Health Network’s Communications inspiration in reading these stories. Department, and is distributed free of charge to Horizon staff, physicians and Sincerely, I was overwhelmed by your volunteers. A French version can be found response to this issue, and there

online at fr.horizonnb.ca. are still so many more stories to Editor: GinaBeth Roberts Design and layout: Hudson Creative Agency share. That’s why I will include Karen McGrath Printed by: Advocate Printing President and CEO more COVID-19 stories in the Please send comments and/or story ideas to Horizon Health Network upcoming routine June edition. [email protected]. 12 13 14 Stay tuned for that issue Recognizing the teams Horizon staff member writes Thank you later this month! on our COVID-19 Inpatient COVID-19 poetry for your kindness! Units “Zoom”ing in on media How the “Fish Tank” kept OR relations staff safe at Horizon’s URVH The face behind the mask: ‘Cleaning’ the way through COVID-19 Boosting morale through photographs For Jeannie Reckler Benoit, a medical Pathology manager. “Jeannie recognized this laboratory technologist at Horizon’s The and took advantage of the down-time to clean Andrea Woodward Brewer, Nurse Manager, 3SW (Internal Medicine/Family Practice Unit) and Coronary Care Unit (CCU), Hospital, spring cleaning the the department, and I’ve never seen our Horizon’s Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital (DECHR) facility’s Histology department became an equipment look so good.” Employee recognition is something a manager unsolicited make-work project to help keep juggles along with many other roles and tasks. herself busy as services were suspended “The windows sparkle, the during the Red Phase of our pandemic I was already trying to make 2020 special response. benches are white again, for the Year of the Nurse and Midwife when COVID-19 arrived in New Brunswick. “Our fabulous co-worker took it upon herself and our spirits are lifted,” I wondered: How can we as managers, in to clean up the department,” said pathology Victoria added. “We even the midst of everything going on, give the assistant Victoria Metzler. “We’re not sure why breathe better now, knowing recognition that is needed? How can we show she felt compelled to do this, but this massive our appreciation for all the work done by all undertaking was on!” that our department has been our staff? RNs, GNs, LPNs, and nursing unit Borrowing a step ladder from maintenance thoroughly spring cleaned.” clerks? New hires and our long-time faithful employees? How will they really feel our thanks and arming herself with multiple cleaners, and appreciation? disinfectants and tools to remove grime, wax, In fact, the whole laboratory department is paint, and other lab debris, Jeannie spent very appreciative, and techs are consciously It is difficult to find something besides three full days scouring the department, even trying to keep their work areas clean. organizing a meal or potluck that all shifts moving large pieces of equipment with the would enjoy. In this new environment, all the “We’re hoping this becomes a contagion of help of lab assistants to reach all the hidden normal avenues we have used in past years on cleanliness,” James said with a wry smile. nooks and crannies. or off the unit to celebrate staff, such as Years “Not just for our department, but for other of Service and Nurses Week, have changed. 4 “A thorough cleaning like this is usually departments across Horizon because it really 4 But that doesn’t mean recognition needs to only done once every five years because does have a positive impact on employee 5 stop; in fact, it’s more important than ever. Jeannie Reckler Benoit we’re typically too busy,” said James Dixon, morale, especially during these trying times.” We are all dealing with COVID-19 together. Our daily work has been affected with all of the changes we are implementing in Horizon to Andrea Woodward Brewer, Nurse Manager of 3SW/CCU at Horizon’s Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital care for the staff, patients/clients and public. I has found this Photo Wall to be a great way to recognize her team and employees that support their work Don’t be afraid: Horizon staff member shares believe we need to capture those memories. during the COVID-19 pandemic. life-changing Emergency Department visit I have been taking photos of my co-workers change fatigue, happiness, fun, and pride but many photos – group photos or of singular subjects. since the 1980s. When I became a manager in also worry. Some of those photos are after a 12-hour night When 53-year-old Paul Woodhouse felt a followed her intuition: she dropped Paul off “I definitely take comfort in knowing there is a 2012 I captured many moments at Horizon’s I tell my grown children that I want photos of shift and some are during a day shift. burning sensation in his chest in early April, he at the ED, expecting him to return to the car superb team of medical professionals available Public Hospital. I do the same now me in my uniform so someday when they tell Memories are important. Staff from throughout didn’t think it was an emergency. before dinner. for us and we should all be very proud in at the DECRH with my 3SW/CCU employees their children stories one will be that their mom the hospital have stopped to look at our wall. Staff He works out four days a week and eats “I explained to him that if it really is nothing, Horizon and New Brunswick,” Mary said. and have created a Photo Wall. was proud to be a nurse. She was also proud to will each get a copy of their photo when I take the relatively healthy, so a problem with his heart he wouldn’t be there long,” she said. “As much Horizon EDs continue to operate, and all New be a Nurse Manager and worked daily to see wall down but I do not know when that will be. I always try to include as many of the many was the last thing on his mind. as you think you are okay sometimes, it’s OK to Brunswickers should attend if they have a that her staff felt respected and valued. There is too much pride for all the work that goes other hospital staff that support my team as I admit you may not be. You really have to listen medical emergency. can. On the wall of photos, for example, there on day and night in the building from this manager. Thankfully his wife, Mary, an administrator in I had great buy-in from staff. On the wall, are to your gut and body.” are photos of staff from physiotherapy, social the Electrodiagnostic Department at Horizon’s “Understandably there may be fear or work, environmental services, maintenance, Saint John Regional Hospital (SJRH), acted After hours waiting in the car, Mary’s phone hesitation about coming to the Emergency staffing, just to name a few. And physicians, too. quickly and encouraged him to head to the died, and she hadn’t heard from Paul. She Department during the COVID-19 pandemic Educating staff on proper donning Emergency Department. went in and called him from a landline in her but rest assured we have processes in place to Often, I have heard from my and doffing of PPE She heard stories of people being afraid to visit department, and soon discovered he was being keep you safe,” said Lori Lavric, administrative employees that they don’t have a hospitals because of the COVID-19 pandemic, admitted for the night. director of Ambulatory Care and Emergency photo of themselves in their work but knew Horizon was taking all the necessary “I wasn’t overly concerned, because I knew Medicine Program for the Saint John area. “If uniforms or scrubs. I believe that is precautions. he was being taken care of,” she said. “When you require emergency care please do not delay in seeking treatment. We are here for you.” important. We spend so much time at At the onset COVID-19 in New Brunswick, I came to work the next day, I was starting to work. We make so many friendships Horizon facilities put protocols in place to worry about things, but I found out that he was that last lifetimes at our workplaces. protect staff, patients and clients. Along with getting a cardiac catheterization, and because new procedures and regulations came a of my job I knew it was rare for people to have Collectively, we are the face behind the mask. reminder to keep Emergency Departments complications with this kind of procedure.” Those faces are sometimes filled with over- (EDs) for emergencies — but also to call 911 Following the cardiac catheterization, Paul also whelming feelings of uncertainty, exhaustion, or visit your local ED if you had a medical had a stent inserted to help with a blockage in emergency. the artery. Horizon EDs had seen a significant drop in After two nights at the SJRH, Paul was visits with COVID-19 and needed to be clear discharged. Today he is doing well and said he that EDs — and hospitals in general — were would never hesitate to go to the ED if he was Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic Nurse Educator Ellen Forgie, left, and Clinical Nurse Specialist Sarah still places where safe and quality care would feeling off again. Messer from Horizon’s Saint John Regional Hospital (SJRH) have delivered between 150 and 200 Personal continue to be provided to those who needed it During his stay, staff on his unit ensured Paul Protective Equipment (PPE) education sessions to staff at SJRH and Horizon’s St. Joseph’s Hospital. (critical and urgent cases). was able to communicate with his family. He Mary and Paul Woodhouse are thankful they listened Over the course of March and April, they’ve ensured Horizon staff know how to properly don and doff PPE – Some of the staff of 3SW/CCU at Horizon’s DECRH Mary told Paul how the ED was safe, and said they even offered devices if people did not to their gut and sought medical treatment for Paul for and they both agree: if needed, they could do it in their sleep! Great work! pose for a photo in front of the Photo Wall. prepared to treat emergencies, and she have their own technology with them. a non-COVID-19 illness in early April. Painting windows of hope at Horizon’s TMH ‘Sometimes the social worker needs a social worker’ Brighter days are coming. Be happy. Thank you. At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Denise McClure, social worker Lynsey Wilson Norrad, social worker and at Horizon’s Tobique Valley These happy colourful painted messages appear community developer based out of Horizon’s Community Health Centre, in windows along MacBeath Avenue at Horizon’s Central Miramichi Community Health Centre said she looks forward to The . in Doaktown, has hosted weekly Zoom check- the weekly digital gatherings The idea came from inpatients in the Provincial ins for all community social workers in the because social workers, like Child and Adolescent Psychiatry unit who Fredericton and Upper River Valley area. all health care workers, are wanted to find a way to inspire onlookers and “Very early on I knew that I was going to need going through a lot in this spread joy during this difficult time. the support of my social work colleagues as stressful time during the COVID-19 pandemic. The children are aware of what is going on things were changing very quickly,” Lynsey within the community and have witnessed said. “There was so much uncertainty and I “These meetings have been first-hand some of the changes within the knew the stress levels of myself, fellow social extremely helpful for me simply hospital since the pandemic began. Staff in the Window paintings by inpatients in the Provincial workers, and our clients were going to rise.” because, well, sometimes the unit answer the children’s COVID-19-related Child and Adolescent Psychiatry unit can be seen Weekly, the eight community health centre social worker needs a social from MacBeath Avenue outside Horizon’s The questions as they arise. social workers from the area are invited to worker,” Denise said. “This Moncton Hospital. pandemic has added difficulty With help from Kim Johnson, recreation the meeting, which lasts between 30 and 60 hesitation or thinking twice about what they to already stressful experiences therapist, Justine MacTavish, human service minutes. A screenshot of the social workers from Fredericton and Upper River Valley wanted to paint.” Area during their May 14 weekly Zoom check in. for our clients as well as for counsellor, Roxanne Robichaud, licensed were complete. Along the way, they complimented “We update each other on what is going on co-workers and staff.” practical nurse, Katherine Arsenault, registered Each child came up with their own unique one another’s paintings and lent a helping in our health centres and our communities,” nurse, and Amelie Comeau, registered nurse, design to inspire hope, courage and kindness hand to each other when needed. Lynsey said. “We share resources picked up “Often at least one of us is Lynsey said she leaves the Zoom meetings the children spent a few hours one late April during COVID-19. feeling motivated, energized, heard, and validated. When asked how they felt about their finished over the last week including clinical resources under a high level of stress, and not afternoon working diligently on their paintings. The children were dedicated to their art and artwork, one patient said: “I thought it was for clients and community programs, as well feeling on top of our game, and the others “We quickly learned that our social work skills “They got to work right away,” said Kim. “No didn’t stop or slow down until their masterpieces amazing.” as wellness, and self-care ideas for professionals.” are able to pick that person up,” Lynsey and services are very important to managing Lynsey said the weekly meetings are one of said. “We’ve all taken our turn in that this pandemic and keeping individuals, 6 the most important forms of professional self- seat and benefited from the support of families, and our communities — as well as 7 ‘Even apart, we can conquer COVID -19 together’ care she has participated in since COVID-19. our colleagues.” our work teams — healthy and well.” One of these was Greg Dunn, Emergency Management Coordinator and Manager of It Takes a Team: Recognizing those that Security and Parking Services for the Moncton area. When she and her Clinic A and B colleagues go above and beyond at Horizon’s CCH first talked about highlighting someone who Every member of the Horizon team has been working hard to tackle the various challenges that had been a tremendous help during this time, have come with COVID-19. The collaboration between departments has allowed everyone to Greg’s name came up right away. appreciate the value of teamwork during a crisis. Jackie sent him a Bravo!, and the team put Staff at Horizon’s Charlotte County Hospital (CCH) felt the Environmental Services (EVS) team together a list of his attributes: needed some special recognition for stepping up and going above and beyond to keep staff, patients, and clients safe. • He checks up on staff and he makes them aware of any changes; Together, Human Resources, the Infection Prevention and Control Clinic, Occupational Therapy, • He asks for input on changes (and takes Speech Language Pathology, Respiratory Therapy, Diabetes Education, Collaborative Clinic and feedback well); Employee Health and Dietitian created a special thank you for the EVS team. • He makes sure supplies are always available; They presented staff with a sweet treat to show their appreciation for their outstanding work. Jackie Phinney, an LPN/ORT in Clinic B (eye clinic) at Horizon’s The Moncton Hospital, has been spreading joy — • He answers questions; and encouraging others to do the same — during Horizon’s COVID-19 pandemic response. She and her colleagues • He is thoughtful (finding a gown for a staff made signs that line the windows of the hospital’s ambulatory care centre. member who was cold); Paying it forward • He is dedicated to job; and Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the staff Jackie Phinney, an LPN/ORT in Clinic B, with • He is patient, calm, approachable and in Clinics A and B at Horizon’s The Moncton the support of nurse manager Cheryl Higgins, builds health care always smiling. Hospital have been bolstered by the slogan, has been a leading force in bringing this joy connections Even apart, we can conquer COVID-19 together. to others — and recognizing those who have Jackie saw these attributes firsthand while she Communities have rallied together in the midst supported her and others, too. was a screener. They’ve uplifted colleagues with vibrant posters of the COVID-19 pandemic to show support for featuring inspiring quotes like, “We Got This” Jackie has worked in the hospital for 29 years, “Greg would always say, ‘No matter where you frontline workers across various professions. There have been health care hero parades and “No Matter the Distance: Faith + Hope = in many units, including Phlebotomy and are, I’m going to come and check on you’,” she outside local hospitals and an outpouring of Strength” that line the windows along Irving Women and Children’s Health. She currently said. “And you don’t think it’s really going to supportive messages from various channels. Ambulatory Care Centre, which was used as works in the Clinic B (the eye clinic), part-time. happen, but Greg really comes and checks on the main staff screening entrance. you.” All of these acts of kindness have lifted spirits Even with this experience, while she was during dark days, but the internal health care They delivered treats with a note to say, “You redeployed to other positions, such as patient All this, despite not knowing each other before connection that has been strengthened in the deserve a break” to employees working at and visitor active screening points, she’s met COVID-19. face of crisis has proven to be extra motivating. screening points and Security, Phlebotomy, and worked with others in the hospital she had While she enjoyed her time in a new role, she Staff from Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont University Environmental Services, Maintenance and never worked with before and would likely not Hospital Centre had lunch delivered to the was eager to return to her former position, and Portering teams. otherwise meet. COVID-19 Inpatient Unit at Horizon’s Saint was anticipating six cataract surgeries in one John Regional Hospital. The team in Saint John Their thoughtfulness has even extended “I think what most people have got out of it is day, with the slow reintroduction of priority then payed it forward and purchased lunch for a beyond the walls of the hospital, as they’ve we’ve met so many people; we call them our elective surgeries across Horizon. unit at a hospital in Halifax. mailed Thank You cards to fellow first new COVID friends,” said Jackie. “We’ve got this “Everyone wants to be in their home unit,” What started as a small gesture is now responders with the RCMP and Ambulance new bond now that we share. We’re all good she said, “with their people and kind of have a spreading joy across provincial borders! New Brunswick. buddies forever.” sense of norm.” Survival Kits deliver happiness in a bag A ‘beary’ happy HR Operations family These “pandemic” crazy times would have Everyone could use a little pick-me up, now Show Calm, been much crazier had we not had our Nana and again—especially during a pandemic. Show Trust, Bear and Momma Bear to uplift, encourage, Murielle Doucet, Horizon’s Addictions and and guide us! Mental Health Prevention Coordinator in With calls, meetings and emails, they have Moncton was looking for a way to thank her Show Care managed to keep all of us “cubs” connected colleagues, while also reminding them to look with each other. after their own mental health. Pharmacy Director Both found a way during such an Inspired by the actions of a colleague within boosts team morale unprecedented time, to reach out, connect, Vitalité Health Network, she decided to put have daily check-in meetings, putting positive together “Staff Survival Kits” to distribute during during COVID-19 energy into what most, probably almost all National Mental Health Week (May 4 to 9). When it comes to of us, perceived as a negative situation. They With the support of Annie Claveau, program leadership, Doug have kept an open line of communication, From left, Pauline, Murielle and Annie showcase the “Staff Survival Kits.” manager with Addiction and Mental Health Doucette, Horizon’s provided the most current information, food Services in Moncton, and Jill LeBlanc- Director of Pharmacy, for thought and generous helpings of humour. Nana Bear (Lynn Boone) and Momma Bear Farquharson, Addictions and Mental Health who appreciated the treats and kind gesture. walks the talk. Even with staff who were redeployed from our (Erin Cottingham) Director, Murielle got to work! “The team has adapted to many changes and Because being a Human Resources Operations team to other strong, confident, and resilient; but also, kind, areas during the pandemic, Lynn and Erin Together with her Vitalité counterpart, Pauline continued to help individuals struggling with leader is who he is, considerate, and encouraging! made sure they were all included in our daily Clark, they put together 500 kits for Horizon their mental health and substance use issues,” creating novel ways to check-ins as well. We all know the days ahead are going to and Vitalité Addictions and Mental Health staff said Murielle. “We must be reminded to take guide his team during be hectic and busy, but we also know that in Zone 1. Each kit included candy, a massager care of ourselves first so that we can stay the pandemic was no Doug Doucette Mother bears are affectionate, protective, Nana Bear and Momma Bear will be close (donated by the Canadian Mental Health healthy to take care of others.” surprise to his staff devoted, strict, sensitive, and attentive. There by, keeping a watchful eye and extending a Association) and an inspirational message. (like this article may be to him). Annie says her team has always been very were times we ran solo because they were helping hand when needed! It is safe to say busy with meetings and working on the next Each candy contained a little explanation as to supportive of each other and COVID-19 proved In the early days of Horizon’s pandemic we all know they will protect us, care for us 8 plan/change, but we all took the opportunity of 9 why it was included, for instance: Life Savers their dedication to each other and their clients. planning, Doug adopted the motto Show and continue to lead us in the future as the these quiet times to clean up and restructure for “making us better and saving lives” and Calm, Show Trust, Show Care as a guidepost amazing team we are! For Murielle, the whole COVID-19 experience our dens! Tootsie Rolls for “the role you play here.” for navigating mostly uncharted territory. has shown her just how resilient people, her Thank you, with much appreciation from the Human These two together are a mighty force – Resources Operations Team. “In the midst of this pandemic, it’s been team included, really are. Doug explained to his team that to show stressful for everyone at work and home,” said calm is to remember that they already know “There’s a solidarity felt amongst those of us Annie. “The intention behind the kits was to how to deal effectively with other infectious who have gone to work every day since the make people smile and feel appreciated.” causes of illness such as seasonal influenza, beginning of this,” she said. “It’s truly honoring norovirus, C. difficile, MRSA and more. And the results were exactly what they hoped: to be part of a team of strong, resilient, and The “Staff Survival Kits” were distributed to Addictions A COVID Cake Boss delights colleagues at they brought joy and smiles to the faces of staff, dedicated people.” and Mental Health staff in Zone 1. By applying that knowledge to the current pandemic, it show(s) trust in everyone’s Horizon’s Hospital abilities to support one another and to manage COVID-19 as they have done and continue Physiotherapist Sara Ingalls recently surprised many colleagues at Horizon’s Grand Manan GREAT MINDS THINK ALIKE! to do with these other microorganisms. Hospital with a “COVID cake” to brighten their spirits. The ultimate goal throughout it all is to Sara was inspired to make the cake to coincide with National Nursing Week, May 11 to 17, and Fredericton Mental Health staff mindful of need for self care remember to show care for patients, who searched Facebook and other sites where COVID-related cake photos were posted. “We talked about ordering lunch together and may be going through assessment and Bianca Kovacs is a clinical social worker Normally, the hallways would echo with the “I have always been inspired by shows such as Cake Boss, and I started making my own custom social distancing out in the park or by the treatment without family at their sides with Horizon’s Addiction and Mental Health constant clamour of foot traffic from clients cakes about a year ago,” explained Sara. “I thought it would be cute to make an actual virus river,” Bianca said. “We’re just coming up with and for co-workers, who are doing their Services in Fredericton. Since the beginning dropping in for their appointments but now, using my ball-shaped pan that I had, and this was the end result of a few combinations of ideas.” of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bianca and her clients consult with social workers by phone. different ideas, virtually.” best under demanding conditions. It’s also colleagues have had to find innovative ways While clients are provided the same care important to not lose sight of self-care by Other than the usual cake ingredients, Sara’s mix included cocoa and coffee. Understandably, to both serve their clients and maintain their as before, Bianca concedes it’s tougher to A colleague even made fun Mental Health being present at work and to do their best staff were impressed by this colourful and cheerful masterpiece! own mental health. establish and maintain that human connection Worker Pandemic Survival Kits with treats with the responsibilities entrusted to them. that commonly occurs in face-to-face meetings. inside and distributed them to the staff. Doug understands that to lead is more “Clinicians rely on the body language of the “It’s been a challenge for than just following a motto—it plays out in client or patient, so building rapport over the actions. Since March, Doug has organized phone is very different,” said Bianca. “In a way us too, so we have to daily pharmacy leadership huddles to it’s good because, in spite of the pandemic, we remember our own keep managers informed of the newest can still maintain contact with our clients who developments with general information really need the help.” self care and check in with from his meetings with Gary Foley, VP each other as well,” Professional Services and addressed any Bianca estimates the number of people questions raised during the meetings. receiving care is the same as before COVID-19, she said. As well, Doug also provided a weekly but noted some clients experienced heightened If there’s a silver lining in this, Bianca notices symptoms in the early days of the pandemic. “Director’s Message” to all pharmacy staff newfound empathy for people dealing with with catchy titles like “Choose a higher Mental health workers aren’t immune to the mental health issues. perspective. Find your inspiration. Cultivate current situation either, which is why Bianca “I think that people are understanding,” she hope,” and “COVID-19 Road Trips and and her colleagues try to stick to their routines said. “The public is getting an idea of what Gratitude.” Staff have come to eagerly amid physical distancing rules. This means somebody with anxiety or depression goes anticipate Doug’s Friday messages and continuing with their team meetings (now through 365 days of the year as opposed to appreciate his thoughtful leadership during This “COVID cake” by Horizon physiotherapist Sara The Mental Health Worker Pandemic Survival Kit has a via teleconference), checking in on one just a couple of months.” this challenging time. Ingalls delighted her colleagues at Horizon’s Grand Sara Ingalls also enjoys the outdoors with her husband self-care solution for every situation. another and planning small social events. Manan Hospital. and children, Kate and Jack. Community Developers join local partners to tackle food insecurity IT team’s diverse work crucial to Horizon’s pandemic response “When COVID-19 hit, we talked as a group From the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic, appointments have been scheduled through introducing cashless payment to Horizon cafeterias about what that meant for us and decided that Horizon’s Information Technology (IT) team – this expanded virtual platform. and parking facilities, while also collaborating it was important to continue to help provide to borrow a phrase from south of the border Within the scope of Horizon’s Intensive Care Units, with the Department of Health for the pilot and affordable, fresh, healthy foods to the people – has been engaging in their own version of meanwhile, physicians and frontline staff are now launch of the MyHealthNB patient portal. who depended on us,” said Kate. “We knew we “Operation Warp Speed.” benefitting from better two-way communication Given the many challenges presented since the made the right decision when people started The people responsible for managing Horizon’s with patients assigned to a negative pressure onset of the pandemic and the need to react not telling us how grateful they were that we were network of information management and isolation room through the recent introduction only rapidly, but effectively, Sheils said she’s going ahead. TCFS looks different now, there telecommunications systems leapt into action of a new patient monitoring system. “extremely proud” of the work her team has put. are less volunteers and we’re all in masks, but as part of the organization’s early pandemic we’re packing more bags than ever!” She said that initiative is just another example “You have to be creative in a time of difficulty,” response plans back in March. of how the creative use of technology can help she said. “The commitment people have shown No matter the challenge in front of them, Jennifer Sheils, Horizon’s Chief Information bridge the gap between a problem and a solution. and the pride they’re showing while working community developers are prepared to join in on Officer, said being able to provide an effective extraordinary hours has been remarkable to good work that only serves to build community Other significant accomplishments from an response with the launch of the pandemic plan IT perspective during the pandemic includes witness – it’s never been more rewarding to resiliency and strengthen the capacity of all to meant not only being able to react at the drop work in this space.” thrive in this challenging time. of a hat, but with maximum efficiency as well. Volunteers with Minto Community Food Smart preparing food delivery orders during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Our job is to support all the clinical program Equitable food security for every New • Reconfiguring individual food programs to areas, so when they identify a challenge or a Brunswicker is an ever-present challenge in accommodate physical distancing rules to need, it’s our job to come to the table to find communities and is one of several concerns minimize disruption in service delivery; out what kind of innovation we can introduce Horizon’s 13 community developers address • Using their local knowledge and skills to to help support them,” she said. in their day-to-day work. This did not change support provincial food security action; and “This situation has been a different kind of pace throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. • When the timing was right, re-directing … it wasn’t just about ‘what’s the priority?’, it’s their attention away from immediate “The circumstances around COVID-19, in many ‘what’s the priority today?’” emergency efforts towards planning for a ways, just amplify these conditions and make long-term COVID-19 reality. In the earliest stages of the response, one of 10 them more real,” said Scott Crawford, Horizon’s the bigger priorities was getting the COVID-19 11 Regional Manager of Community Development. Kate Doyle, Community Developer for the Assessment Centres up and running. “Our developer team is committed to working Moncton area, said programs like Tantramar Volunteers with Tantramar Community Food Smart Staff needed to get creative as they worked with community partners on both short- and Community Food Smart (TCFS) complement prepare to deliver orders during the long-term solutions.” food security initiatives around the province. COVID-19 pandemic. to get these temporary sites wired and secured to the network as quickly as possible, As schools and child-care centres closed and which is easier said than done considering many other programs and services halted comfortable. Many years ago, she was inspired by the assessment centres were being set up operations there was a direct impact on many Patch Adams use of costumes to make patients in parking lots, coliseum agrenas and even families’ access to food and necessities. The COVID Fairy laugh – and she’s used his method ever since. a former newspaper office, among other Anyone who knows Louise Jacob, a social worker Emily Shapiro, Community Developer for the locations. with Horizon’s Child and Youth Integrated Service “I greeted them (my colleagues) at work in my Krisan Palmer, centre, Horizon’s Virtual Care Manager, and staff from Horizon’s Mental Health and Information Technology Grand Lake area, said they had to cancel their Delivery (ISD) Team in Tantramar, knows she loves fairy costume and you should have seen their While there were some logistical challenges to teams, and the Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation SCCR are seen on a call on the NB Virtual Care Platform. Community Food Smart program in April. fairies. eyes,” she said. “They looked like kids on Christmas overcome with that process, Jennifer said her morning. I danced around singing ’Everything is team rose to the occasion and got the job done. “But volunteers and staff at Horizon’s Queens Therefore, it came as no surprise when she arrived going to be OK’ and my fairy wings were flying.” Recreation Therapy turns North Community Health Centre were eager at work during the COVID-19 pandemic dressed That included making sure each assessment to pitch in and make sure everyone in Minto as a fairy, ready to spread cheer. Her colleagues and clients loved it. centre was equipped with full patient registration to technology to support had access to fresh fruits and vegetables,” capability so every time someone presented Emily said. “We packed and delivered 115 bags, “It was the sixth week of the shut down,” she said. “Louise has a compassionate and sensitive to be swabbed or assessed, that visit would be patients “Things were feeling heavy at work, with both character,” said Erin Gray, an occupational therapist twice as many as we would in a typical formally documented on their health record. The Recreation Therapy team at Horizon’s Stan colleagues and with clients. I kept thinking, ‘These with the ISD team. “It didn’t surprise me that she month, which really points to some deeper “We had to deploy computers so that staff Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation (SCCR) uses are not normal times, so why am I trying to apply wanted to do something to encourage others. We food security issues.” could access patient health information from leisure, recreation and play as treatment to improve normal interventions?’ have many other lovely people on the teams here, the hospital system, we deployed mobile X-rays the quality of life of patients with physical, mental, Community developers needed to re-orient too – everyone is doing their best to keep positive!” And although dressing up isn’t a “normal (and much more) ….” she said. “We were able social or emotional limitations that impact their their work to support a collective response to ability to engage in meaningful leisure experiences. the added stress of COVID-19 public health intervention” for many, it is one of Louise’s tried-and- And while Louise’s fairy costume brought a smile to turn a couple of those sites over in 24 hours, measures. tested creative intervention tools to help clients feel to those around her, it helped her as well. which is pretty quick, where my team had to go Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the methods the to six or seven different areas to get all of this team would normally use, such as weekly community Horizon’s SCCR Recreation Therapy team. From left: “Somewhere deep inside we all have the inner “We called all our members to let them know gathered and delivered.” outings and small group gatherings, have been Chelsea Crockford, Recreation Therapist; Laura Oldford, about the COVID-19-related changes and did resources and strength to deal with a crisis,” she postponed. Recreation Therapist; and Jenna Vandenborre, said. “My way of tapping into mine is to pretend to But the work didn’t stop there – not even close. Rehabilitation Assistant. a bit of a wellness check at the same time,” When faced with this challenge, the team adapted Emily said. “It was wonderful hearing people’s be a fairy with a magic wand, as silly as it sounds. Among the other highlights, Jennifer says she’s their approach by using technology to support their they can help clients contact loved ones who are voices, learning their concerns and how Coming to work dressed up cheered me up.” especially proud of the significant strides her interventions. only available after daytime working hours. they’ve been spending their days and they Louise’s acts of cheer clearly show spreading a department has been able to make in the “We continue to educate our clients on the benefits “Working as a team and with clients on how to best certainly appreciated the opportunity to chat little fairy dust goes a long way, and it certainly realm of virtual care and rolling out different of community activities and social support but have provide our services has been crucial, and this has during such a strange time.” won’t be the last time she pulls the fairy costume platforms to enhance connectivity between began using technology as a new means to do this,” been a good opportunity for clients to feel heard Across Horizon, community developers worked out of her bag of tricks. patients and their care teams. said Recreation Therapist Chelsea Crockford. and prioritize what is important for them during this time,” said Chelsea. alongside their local partners to manage Throughout the pandemic, Louise’s perspective On the Addictions and Mental Health side, staff The team now provides patients with the necessary anticipated future needs while addressing changed; she realized how lucky she is to go to were able to ramp up access to virtual care to technology and assistance to stay in contact with Recreation has been of utmost importance during friends and family. They also support their clients the COVID-19 pandemic, not just for her clients, evolving circumstances as they unfolded. work and truly appreciates her colleagues and job. some of Horizon’s most vulnerable clients by making the service available to roughly 600 as they learn to use technology and help them find but for everyone. Here’s just some of the actions Horizon ways to use it for leisure, for example, to play music “My co-workers became my social life,” she said. service providers across the organization. “Valuing your own leisure interests and recreation is Community Developers were involved in: “We supported each other, relied on one another, and video games or to access virtual social groups. To date, Jennifer said more than 2,500 crucial to staying sane during this challenging time,” • Helping with emergency food response Social worker Louise Jacob dressed up as a fairy to and appreciated each other more. I hope we don’t Addictions and Mental Health Services The team also adapted their working hours to best she said. “This pandemic has opened my eyes to the coordination; spread cheer for the Tantramar ISD team. lose that and take things for granted.” support clients’ needs, such as working Friday true power of recreation in everyone’s lives – people evenings to ensure everyone is set up for weekend are learning to be their own Recreation Therapist activities, and working beyond their usual hours so and advocate!” How the “Fish Tank” Recognizing the teams on our “Zoom”ing in on media relations kept OR staff safe at COVID-19 Inpatient Units Kris McDavid, Senior Communications Advisor – Media, Horizon Health Network Horizon’s URVH Horizon’s five regional hospitals – Dr. Everett These health care workers worked only A significant part video conferencing technology like Zoom can Having control over the environment helped Chalmers Regional Hospital in Fredericton; Saint with COVID-19 patients, whenever possible of my role involves be in delivering information to the media with ensure the session moved along at an appropriate In the initial planning phases of COVID-19 John Regional Hospital; The Moncton Hospital; (with some exceptions of staff/teams who working directly maximum clarity, control and efficiency. pace that respected people’s time, while making preparedness, one anesthetist took the lead at Miramichi Regional Hospital; and Upper River regularly work with many departments in our with the media – Earlier this spring, I was able to take the technology sure every reporter had an equal opportunity to Horizon’s Upper River Valley Hospital. Valley Hospital in Waterville — had designated hospitals). This allowed us to minimize the setting up interviews, for a test drive by hosting and moderating a virtual ask questions in a structured format. Dr. Camilla Tooley is a general practitioner anesthetist COVID-19 Intensive Care Units (ICUs) and number of staff accessing these designated preparing statements media technical overview and press conference In the end, everybody wins. The journalists who has worked throughout the Upper River Valley separate COVID-19 nursing units to care for units, which in turn reduced the risk of and monitoring the detailing the early stages of our response. came away with the information they were area. Each time she steps into an operating room accuracy of any COVID-19 positive patients who are severely ill. transmission of infection. The results were encouraging: more than a looking for, provided directly by our experts, (OR), she brings with her a lifetime of experience and Horizon-related which ultimately helped increase the odds of knowledge. These dedicated teams of health care workers dozen reporters took part in the Zoom call by Thank you to these amazing teams reporting. accurate and consistent reporting. And from Although working abroad has seen her working provided care to our COVID-19 patients. This who provided care to our most simply replying to a password-protected link allowed for our already highly-trained staff to Given how rapidly the COVID-19 pandemic has that took them directly into the meeting. a Horizon perspective, the virtual platform in some less than desirable conditions, Dr. Tooley vulnerable patients. evolved into one of the biggest media storylines allowed us to maximize the reach of our key always works toward keeping her patients and develop expertise in caring for these patients. They were then joined by Horizon subject colleagues safe. of our time, it’s no surprise my inbox has been messaging by being proactive and inviting the fairly active these days. matter experts who were able to deliver media in rather than simply waiting for the calls During these extraordinary times — but in a more strategic messaging and take questions in this and emails to pile up. familiar setting — Dr. Tooley again took the initiative Journalists are hungry for whatever sliver of virtual environment. to do extensive research to ensure proper measures credible information they can get their hands I could easily see it remaining a useful media and equipment were available in our theatres. on as they try to unpack and report on the latest The format featured all the good parts of a relations tool to tap into over the long haul. In As the COVID-19 pandemic spread worldwide and details of the pandemic. traditional in-person press conference – the fact, we held a second Zoom press conference a element of face-to-face communication, Horizon continued providing urgent and critical COVID-19 is something none of us have ever few weeks later with our Chief Human Resource surgical care, she didn’t want URVH to just meet the essentially – without the hassle of booking a Officer with similar results, and I hosted an recommendations — she wanted the OR team to seen before, and with that novelty – inevitably – venue, setting up audio-visual equipment or also comes confusion. interview and a pre-interview briefing session surpass the highest standard. worrying about crowd control and site access with some of our family physicians that also While conducting research, Dr. Tooley came across Until the COVID-19 pandemic, I had never — particularly important during this era of went off without so much as a hitch or a glitch. 12 articles featuring the use of an aerosol containment heard of Zoom — let alone think I’d be using it physical distancing. 13 box during intubation. The use of the aerosol box, as a platform to host a press conference. Technology has been keeping all of us dubbed the “Fish Tank” by OR staff, ensures staff It turned out to be a much more efficient use of connected in these difficult times. And from a safety as it helps contain any aerosolized particles Ensuring our key messages make it into print time and resources, as well, by wiping out the media relations perspective, it’s allowing our of the virus, minimizing potential spread of any or the evening never has never been an exact need for travel and the additional overhead that organization to get crucial messaging across in COVID-19 Unit staff at Horizon’s The Moncton Hospital infectious material. science, but one of the bigger lessons I’ve typically comes with hosting a news conference new and exciting ways. While talking to a colleague who knew a local learned through this pandemic is how effective under normal circumstances. carpenter, a plan was developed to have an aerosol box made for the operating rooms at URVH. She eventually updated the box, having Version 2.0 built after making some adjustments to further ensure patient and OR staff safety. Spread the word not the virus: In true Dr. Tooley fashion, she shared the design and use of the aerosol box with her colleagues in the Horizon staff member writes COVID-19 poetry Emergency Department and Critical Care Unit to In a series of poems, Glen Sheppard, Manager of Budgets and Reporting, Financial Services at Horizon’s Woodbridge also ensure their safety. Centre depicts the reality of New Brunswickers during the various stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“When the Horizon Star editor reached out Glen was inspired to write about his experience throughout the pandemic after coming across a letter written Author Glen Sheppard, Manager of Budgets looking for examples of collaboration, opportunity, COVID-19 Unit staff at Horizon’s Saint John Regional Hospital (Inpatient Unit and Suspect COVID-19 Unit) during the time of the Spanish flu. and Reporting, Financial Services at Horizon’s perseverance and resilience during the global Woodbridge Centre. outbreak, we here at URVH felt Dr. Camilla Tooley Spread the word not the virus Day 1 to 35 Day 36 to be the perfect example of all these qualities,” said Katrina Price, RN, Operating Room, Horizon’s A respiratory virus called COVID-19 We line up outside to enter most stores Red Orange Yellow and Green URVH. “She has always taken the interest of her Has now appeared on the scene Follow the arrows and 6-foot spaces on floors The colour stages of COVID-19 It’s a fast spreading virus we have learned One shopper per family is only allowed At each of the stages that we achieve patients and co-workers safety and to heart.” For the compromised and elderly, we are concerned In hopes to reduce the size of the crowd Restrictions, we gain some reprieve The world as we know it, has now stalled Some places reusable bags cannot be brought in Essential workers are put in harms way A state of emergency has been called Only store provided plastic bags and no cotton But those at home have lost their pay Travel is restricted to a select few For payment, debit and credit is preferred The bigger sacrifice, I cannot guess All borders are closed, provincial ones too Not accepting cash seems kind of absurd Both will cause family and mental stress Those that have travelled upon your return Bars and Restaurants no patrons can enter Keep what you sacrificed so far, in mind 14 days of isolation is your only concern Same for gyms, theaters and shopping centres As we leave the first red level behind Please do not stop along the way No sports can be played or watched live on TV Here at orange we don’t want to move back Stay inside until you know you are okay They even cancelled all elective surgeries Let’s show we can handle a little slack COVID-19 Unit staff at Horizon’s Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital Schools and stores have all been shut down The Stanley cup may be cancelled too We can now gather up to 10 In hopes to limit people moving around Just like the year of the Spanish flu Non-essential stores can now reopen There are a few that just don’t understand Remember Joe Hall, a player who passed away Hospitals can now perform elective surgeries To stay inside, is the most important command Just because they thought it was safe to play You can visit the dentist and most therapies We are not used to all this time on our hands For some the news is not all bad The two-family bubble has come into play But we still have to respect all the Premier’s demands When Dentists were closed, some were glad Expanding the faces you see each day Only venture out for the necessities to survive For techies and gamers forced inside 24/7 Open are Golf Fishing and outdoor places Dr. Camilla Tooley, a general practitioner anesthetist at This is the best way to keep everyone alive They must think they have gone to heaven But remember to keep 6-foot spaces Horizon’s Upper River Valley Hospital (URVH) stands Flatten the curve is the phrase of the time Some say the new rules infringe on their rights Wearing a face mask is a new trend behind the “Fish Tank 2.0.” As its name implies, this is A gathering of a few people, is now a crime I say do want it takes to win this COVID fight Reduces spreading it to a friend the second version of the custom-made aerosol box Social distancing is another term in use The restrictions are to protect their loved ones too Wash your hands, don’t touch your face used in operating rooms (ORs) at URVH during the Closer than 6 feet is now a form of abuse We don’t know who COVID-19 will put in the ICU These are the best practices to embrace COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Tooley had Version 2.0 built The time is now to stop the spread Let’s learn from the past and take it slow We have been dealing with this for 50 plus days after making some adjustments to further ensure Reduce the number that will end up dead We want everyone around to watch our kids grow It was hard at first but we adapted to new ways patient and OR staff safety. COVID-19 Unit staff at Horizon’s Miramichi Regional Hospital If we all do our part and even those who have drifted Patience, what’s needed during this time of constraint You should be proud of the progress shown so far The sooner all the restrictions will be lifted And the quicker we will be able to loosen our restraints If only schools were open, you would receive a gold star Psssst. Hey, you! Yes, you. Did you know? We are overwhelmed by the community response to recognize and support Horizon staff and physicians during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. We’ve received more than 250 generous offers, big and small, from the community – from meals and homemade masks to wheelchair ramps and hand sanitizer. Thank you for your kindness!

If you or someone you know would like to donate non-medical supplies to our staff and physicians, email: [email protected] Don’t forget! • You can recognize Horizon staff and physicians through our online recognition program, Bravo! • Our Foundations, Auxiliaries, and Alumnae accept financial donations and in return provide funding and support for much needed equipment, programs and projects across Horizon.