One day on a walk with my daughter and our dog in my hometown of Princeton, we stopped to look at our local “Bridge of Dreams”. While standing there, my daughter pointed to graffiti done with a black sharpie on the bridge and asked me what it meant. There were racist, sexist and homophobic slurs as well as many symbols associated with Nazism. I felt shocked and responded hesitantly as I was forced to have a difficult  conversation right then and there with my girl around inequality in our society which included the concept of genocide.  This conversation was not easy as I tried to tone it to the innocence of my child.   I phoned the Town of Princeton in front of my daughter as soon as we got home and explained to the clerk what we had seen and how I was saddened and hoped for removal as soon as possible. The person taking my report said she would get right on it and asked if I would like a phone call back when the removal was done. I initually thought that was unnecessary, but she suggested it might be a good idea so I could take my daughter back to the bridge to demonstrate that our town and society takes action to remedy these situations as they are not tolerated. We went to see the cleaned-up bridge a few days later and it was very impressive how even the deep marks had been sanded off the wood. I felt really proud to be a Princeton resident that day. A few weeks later the news reported the death of Mr. George Floyd while in police custody. I was inspired by the global response and calls for social justice and I wanted to do something locally to help affect change. I realized I had a unique opportunity to share my message as the front fence of my home faces the highway and hundreds of locals and travellers use the route. So inspired,  I started to create a sign. My daughter and I talked about the sign and the message it sends. She connected our conversation to what she had learned in school about Orange Shirt Day and residential schools, and began to help decorate the sign. We attached our 37 ft. sign to the fence and the response from our community was very positive. I had colleagues texting me “I like the sign on your fence “ with heart emojis and I had people come off the highway and find our house in town and take photos in front of the sign.  I asked colleagues to come and have a photo together.  The message on this sign applies to so many historically marginalized groups in our world. I especially acknowledge our First Nations people and the unfathomable challenges they have suffered over generations of being targeted by legislative and systemic societal failures in Canada. I believe education is key to changing the world and organizations like Interior Health are very important in promoting such messaging. Here we make it a point to provide education to our staff about Aboriginal history so we can improve our awareness and incorporate a better understanding into our work.  It makes me proud to work here. I am so hopeful the next generation will take us forward in moving closer to equal justice for all and I hope to instill this power into my own little girl.

Right across Canada, more than ever, we need people of all ages and walks of life to get vaccinated against influenza. The more we reduce the presence of respiratory illness this winter, the better positioned we are to continue fighting against COVID-19. When we assess a patient’s respiratory symptoms, our job is easier if they have had the flu shot because it helps us determine if the illness is more likely influenza or COVID-19. So far, Interior Health has been fortunate that our health-care system has kept up to the demands of COVID-19. But I can share with you, we are seeing challenges in some places, such as testing sites and labs, and we have entered a fragile time with the cooler weather. We need to avoid the influx of really sick patients with influenza, which, combined with COVID-19 pressures, could push our health-care system to the edge. I know from more than 30 years of experience in health care that getting the flu shot helps prevent the system from surging over capacity. If you are under 40, you may think influenza and COVID-19 are nothing to fear, but we need everybody to think of others during this difficult time. While the symptoms for you may be mild, as with COVID-19, you could unknowingly pass the flu to loved ones and it can be fatal. Our seniors and elders have been there for all of us and they need our support today. I can’t think of a better way to show appreciation than by taking advantage of any defence that will protect their health when they need us the most. The flu shot is a tool in the tool box. The choice is yours to decide whether to use the tools to protect yourself and the ones you love. Over the next few weeks, you will hear more about Interior Health’s public campaign to encourage vaccination. We will be working with many different providers to promote our influenza campaign this year. The flu season typically ramps up in November, but before it reaches our communities, talk to your bubble, your neighbours’ bubble, and your social media bubble. Encourage everyone to get their bubble vaccinated. Even if you have never felt the need to get the flu shot before, please do it this year. Help protect each other and the health-care system we all need.

Farm work is essential to our food supply. Every year, hundreds of temporary agriculture workers from across the country travel to B.C. to help with harvest. This year was no different, with the big exception of COVID-19. Municipalities and regional districts in our region worked closely with the provincial government, Interior Health and many other organizations to keep farm workers and communities safe. When the Loose Bay campground outside Oliver was closed by it's management society due to the complexity of COVID-19 regulations, the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen stepped in and opened the site to accommodate agricultural workers. They did this without initial funding and worked tirelessly with IH to establish COVID protocols for the site. They even produced bilingual signage to accommodate the many French Canadians staying there. The District of Summerland identified a section of their local public campground to be used exclusively by domestic farmworkers. They even set up extra facilities and brought in an RV in case anyone needed self-isolation accommodation. The Regional District of Central Kootenay, in partnership with the Town of Creston, established an Economic Recovery Committee to help the agriculture industry adopt and communicate the necessary guidelines and orders from the federal and provincial government. This committee also arranged and managed an agricultural worker accommodation site to ensure the health and safety of employees and their community. Inside Interior Health we were also busy preparing for this important time in our communities. Many different teams came together to develop a plan that would help us prepare for all possibilities. This effective internal teamwork - in partnership with external stakeholders - was public health in action because it protected the health-care system and prevented domestic temporary agricultural COVID-19 cases. “Public health work done well is invisible because the outcome is what people would expect, no outbreaks among domestic farm workers” says Dr. Silvina Mema, Medical Health Officer. The efforts of those involved in the planning and implementation of safe accommodation hubs paid off and helped to keep all IH communities safe this harvest season.

The term Health Care Heroes has been top of mind this year as we continue to navigate the COVID-19 Pandemic. Our Health Care Assistants (HCA), among other professions, work around the clock to protect our most vulnerable population and provide companionship through this isolating period. In these uncertain and challenging times adjusting to the “new normal”, they have been innovative, adaptable, and committed to providing exceptional health care. The support that they provide is truly the glue that holds us all together. Each and every one of you inspires us with your passion for helping others and together you will continue to impact the lives of so many.   What is Health Care Assistant Day? Established in 2011, Health Care Assistant day is celebrated annually on October 18 to recognize and show our sincere appreciation for all that they do. Please join us today as we honour over 35,000 Health Care Assistants within British Columbia. They continue to provide 24-hour care to protect and support British Columbians who have complex care needs in a variety of settings to remain independent as long as possible.   IH Health Care Assistant Heroes We interviewed many HCA’s from those taking the first step in their career to those celebrating Long Term Service Awards of 10, 20 or even 25 plus years. Those with experience shared advice to HCA’s just starting their career in health care, “To just be yourself and to treat everyone as if they were family. Be gentle with yourself and take the time to get to know each resident and their individual routines.” Many of our HCA’s found inspiration for their career from first-hand experience with their loved ones being cared for. Due to their empathic nature, many started their career as an HCA seeking the opportunity to honour those in palliative care or to be able to help those in need live their best life. The common consensus of HCA's outlines their favourite part of their job is the people. From the team they work with, to the people they care for to the bond made with the families. Each day they do little things to make a difference in the lives of others and bring a smile to their face. Meet Our Health Care Assistants Tammy started her career at Interior Health as a Health Care Aide over 21 years ago, part of her journey included 14.5 years at the Gateby Care Center before joining the team at Polson Care Center. Tammy sheds light on the challenges they are currently facing: “The pandemic affects many things. We are now required to wear masks and goggles. We change into our uniforms when we arrive at work and back into our street clothes before we leave and our temperatures are taken at the beginning of every shift.” Day-to-day life has changed for everyone, especially the patients and residents in care. Tammy and her team explain how they have invented new ways to connect with the patients and ensure that they are providing quality companionship throughout these challenging times. They have created special visiting rooms for families to ensure they are still able to connect. In addition, many care aides try to spend as much 1-on-1 time as possible with the residents.   Many HCA's reflected on how their continued education at Interior Health has allowed them to utilize their learned knowledge to provide better care for their patients. Lana, a Health Care Aide at IH, describes how her Palliative Care course allowed her to better help families navigate challenging decisions. It's moments like this where she feels a sense of pride and knows that she is making a difference. It's moments that they can bring joy and cheer into the lives of the residents that make the holidays memorable. For example, the staff loves to dress up and celebrate the holidays with the residents. Jeanine, a Health Care Aide at IH, shares how moved she feels almost every day working with her residents and team. She emphasizes how the connection with the residents is what makes her job so rewarding. Many reminisce about setting residents up in their room so they don't miss the NHL playoffs, tucking in the residents at night with a warm blanket and their favorite stuffed animals, and watching yodeling videos because it's their favourite thing. These small moments have a significant impact on the lives of others and we are so grateful to have such compassionate, caring, and incredible people at Interior Health.   Interior Health emphasizes the importance of having a work-life balance for optimal mental health. Luckily situated in beautiful Southern Interior British Columbia, we have a four-season playground to explore in our own backyard. When our HCA's aren't in the workplace they can be found hitting the slopes, gardening, hiking, or camping to name a few.   Tammy, Health Care Aide at IH enjoying the 5K Foam Fest How to Become an HCA The demand for health care assistants is ever increasing and this year with the COVID-19 Pandemic continues to demonstrate how essential they are to the safety and quality of personal care for patients. If you’re looking create a meaningful impact, and make a difference in someone’s life apply on our website: jobs.interiorhealth.ca/health-care-assistant A sincere thank you to all Health Care Assistants holding different titles including Community Health Worker, Residential Care Aide, Home Support Worker, Long-Term Care Aide, Home Health Aide, Continuing Care Assistant and Personal Care Aide.  

We Are IH is a new recognition campaign to spotlight our people in a real way – through pictures and stories that allow their authenticity to shine through! Every week Interior Health employees or medical staff will be featured through our News@IH website and our weekly In the Loop Roundup email newsletter.  Growing up in Squamish, British Columbia, Shaylene loved spending time with her friends and family and adventuring the beautiful outdoors with them. Throughout her life, she has always had a passion for helping others and giving back to her community. It wasn’t a surprise to those who knew Shaylene’s heart that at the young age of 17, she took the first step in her career as a Health Care Aide. Inspired by her desire to see the difference a healthcare team can make in a person's life, shortly after she advanced her education and began her career as a nurse. The majority of her career has been in acute care until this April when she was promoted to Team Lead of Home Support at 100 Miles House Hospital. Every time that she can make a difference in a palliative client/family’s life, she feels a sense of pride. Shaylene’s peers would describe her as a passionate person who puts her heart and soul into her job, so her new role in Home Support was a step in the right direction of having an impact on the lives of others. The patients that Shaylene cares for are so grateful for her kind demeanor, caring heart, and positive attitude. Every day she continues to make a difference in the lives of her patients and make a positive contribution to Interior Health. As Shaylene is very family-oriented and values the time she spends with her friends and family she ensures a work-life balance that allows her to spend quality time with her loved ones. Whether they are out fishing, boating, or kayaking, they enjoy taking in the picturesque views around them and making new memories. We are so thankful to have Shaylene as the Team Lead for Home Support at 100 Miles House Hospital where she continues to inspire and lead others to provide the best possible care possible. Thank you for all that you do, Shaylene! Check back each Friday for the next We Are IH feature. For more information contact EmployeeExperience@InteriorHealth.ca. Shaylene's nomination of Teressa Allwood keeps the We Are IH loop going: Teressa supports her staff in such an amazing way. She is a great manager and encourages the staff to continue to grow in their role. She is a dedicated team member who fosters a positive work environment. She encourages the staff to try to think positively about changes and hurdles. OMH is a better place because of her.

Struggling with how to make Halloween a little less scary this year? The BC Centre for Disease Control has some tricks for you. Safer trick-or-treating Respect homes by staying away if the lights are out.Keep to your local neighbourhood this year.Avoid trick-or-treating in busy areas or indoors (in places like malls) since there may not be enough space to distance. Indoor spaces may require a non-medical mask or face covering.Trick-or-treat in a small social group, stick to six people.Leave space between you and other groups to reduce crowding on stairs and sidewalks.Wash your hands before you go out, when you get home, and before eating treats.Keep hand sanitizer with you for eating treats on the go.You don’t need to clean every treat. You should instead wash your hands after handling treats and not touch your face.Try including a non-medical mask or face covering as part of your costume.Costume masks should not be worn over non-medical masks or face coverings as that may make it difficult to breathe. Skip Halloween parties this year Leave the parties behind.Indoor gatherings, big or small, put people at higher risk of getting COVID-19.Celebrate with your favourite Halloween movie or other traditions that you can do with your household or social group.If you host or attend a small party, keep it within your social group (Stick to six).   You should know everyone who attends, no plus ones.   Follow our guidelines for safer celebrations.   Don’t pass around snacks, drinks, smokes, tokes, and vapesBe more outside, than inside. Keep your space well-ventilated with windows open.   Avoid using props that can cause coughing, such as smoke machines.   Be careful with hand sanitizer and open flames - hand sanitizer is very flammable! Get creative handing out treats Use tongs, a baking sheet or make a candy slide to give more space when handing out candy.   Plan to hand out individual treats instead of offering a shared bowl.   Only hand out sealed, pre-packaged treats.Wear a non-medical mask that covers your nose and mouth when handing out treats.   Be more outside, than inside.   If you can, stand outside your door to hand out treats. Then kids won’t need to touch the door or doorbell.   If you’re unable to sit outside to hand out treats, clean and disinfect doorbells and knobs, handrails, and any other high touch surface often during the eveningHelp make trick-or-treating more accessible to everyone by handing out treats from the bottom of your stairs or at your curb-side.

We Are IH is a new recognition campaign to spotlight our people in a real way – through pictures and stories that allow their authenticity to shine through! Each week we will showcase an Interior Health employee who is working to make a difference in their community. Ken radiates positive energy and makes being at work a happy place simply with his presence. Over the past 12 years as a Housekeeper at Kelowna General Hospital (KGH), he has been inspired by working with patients in need, more recently in his current department, the Psychiatry Ward. Whether it’s an ear to listen or helpful advice, Ken always shows up as his authentic self to help others. As a big believer in everyone working as a team, he is always looking out for one another and ensuring that he is offering help wherever it is needed. Ken feels lucky to be working on the Psychiatry Ward where his team feels more like family. It's second nature for everyone to help each other as they work collaboratively as a team to do the best possible job. Born and raised in Richmond, B.C., he is a true outdoorsman, and exploring new areas has always been a passion of his. When Ken isn’t working you can find him exploring the wilderness outdoors, in the woods setting up camp and catching fish for dinner. He loves a getaway with his wife and is looking forward to treating her very soon! Ken feels grateful to work alongside her and be a part of the incredible housekeeping team in Psychiatry at KGH. Thank you for all that you do, Ken, we appreciate you so much! Check back each Friday for the next We Are IH feature. For more information contact EmployeeExperience@InteriorHealth.ca. Ken's nomination of Amanda Burgess Moffett keeps the We Are IH loop going: “I would like to nominate my wife, Amanda Burgess Moffett, a housekeeper at KGH for over 17 years. She has been Shop Steward, JOHSC Committee, Former Supervisor of Housekeeping at KGH, and currently works as a Housekeeper in Psychiatry. Her constant goal is to help other workers with all of their problems.”

We Are IH is a new recognition campaign to spotlight our people in a real way – through pictures and stories that allow their authenticity to shine through! Each month, four Interior Health employees or medical staff will be featured through our News@IH website and our weekly In the Loop Roundup email newsletter.  Sean Adams thrives in challenging and high-pressure situations, so naturally, being the Patient Care Coordinator (PCC) at the High Acuity Response Team (HART) is a position that he excels in. He started his career in Ontario in 2002 in intensive care units (ICU) and made the move to Kamloops to work in ICU at Royal Inland Hospital (RIH) in 2012. From there, he transitioned into HART in 2014, and most recently he started as the HART PCC this year. Sean has positively impacted the lives of many. His commitment and hard work were acknowledged by his peers with his nomination for the 2019 Steve Rogers Award. Congrats, Sean! Born and raised in Southern Ontario, Sean was inspired at an early age to choose a career where he creates change and makes a difference in the lives of others. He loves helping people with his expertise and has provided a lot of value to IH with his wealth of knowledge. His peers would describe him as a dedicated and hard-working person who is always living life to its fullest. Those who had the pleasure of seeing Sean’s sensitive side know how big his heart really is. When Sean isn’t working he loves to spend his downtime relaxing at home on his hobby farm with his three dogs with one more on the way! As a volunteer for the Emergency Medical Response Team at Sun Peaks he hits the slopes regularly. He loves to travel though and he is crossing his fingers that he will be able to jet off on his vacation to Hawaii in 2022 (it was supposed to be 2021). We hope you can enjoy your well-deserved time off! Thank you for all that you do for the High Acuity Response Team (HART)! Check back each Friday for the next We Are IH feature. For more information contact EmployeeExperience@InteriorHealth.ca. Sean's nomination of Jasmin Waterman keeps the We Are IH loop going: Jasmin is a housekeeper and dietary aid at Clearwater Hospital. I pick up in Clearwater quite often and I see Jasmin there on a regular basis. Jasmin is so uplifting and fun. She is super happy all of the time which resonates with everyone that she comes into contact with. If we could all be as spirited as Jasmin the world would truly be a better place, she is such a pleasure to work with. In addition, she is a very hard worker that takes pride in everything that she does in whatever position she is doing that day.

Autumn is the season to enjoy the leaves turning gold and crimson, the farmers harvesting their apple orchards, and families and loved ones feasting at Thanksgiving. Let's make the most of these activities and more by keeping ourselves safe from spread of COVID-19 in our communities. We know what to do - it's back to the basics. Here are eight layers of protection that we can incorporate to stop the spread of COVID-19 in our neighbourhoods, schools, workplaces and communities: Have a plan to stay home when someone in your family is feeling unwell. Feeling sick? Stay home. Plan ahead with those in your household what you will do if someone is unwell. Be prepared for those days when you can stop the spread by staying in. When experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, get tested.Fewer faces in bigger spaces – keep your groups small. As we head into the colder weather, we’ll be indoors more. It’s more important than ever to keep close gatherings to the same small group of people.Keep your distance: Stop the spread by making space for yourself and others. Whether you’re at the store, at work or near others outside of your bubble, maintain a safe physical distance of two metres.Use masks when you can’t keep your distance: Keep masks on hand for your family when inside in public spaces, and in close contact with others.Pass on the shared meals: Avoid sharing food and drinks, including homemade foods like birthday treats or bake sale items. Students should label all their personal items and not share them.Wash your hands – especially during cold and flu season: As basic as it seems, this is one of the most effective ways to stay healthy and limit the spread of illness. Use soap and water, and do it often.Take time to talk: It’s ok to have questions and to share concerns or thoughts with your family and friends. Let’s encourage each other to talk about our plans, strategies and ways of staying safe this fall and winter.