To the Healthcare Community:
I wanted to thank you for all of your hard work and dedication to your job—specifically to those who provided excellent care for my husband during his triple bypass. You were all already heroes in my eyes way before this tragedy struck my family, but now I am truly in awe of all of you.
I witnessed the resilience of the human spirit and the devotion of staff In the face of uncertainty and adversity. You stand on the front lines, tirelessly working to protect the health and well-being of our communities. You confront challenges head-on, armed with knowledge, compassion, and unwavering determination.
You are the caregivers, communicators, patient advocates, and decision-makers. You are the hand-holders, the voice-of-reason, the 3 a.m. vitals-checkers. You become the around-the-clock best friend by the bedside, the calming voice, the familiar face full of compassion. To so many, you are guardian angels.
You handle unpredictable chaos with the utmost agility, calm, and professionalism. You possess the strength and accuracy to navigate rough waters during medical emergencies, but we understand that even those who provide the most compassionate care can also have bad days. Some days may seem physically exhausting and emotionally draining. Still, you let these difficulties be outweighed by the satisfaction of knowing that you play a pivotal role in the healing process.
I wanted to mention the support staff, too. To those who clean the rooms, deliver food, and do all of the other tasks that keep the hospital running, usually with smiles and kind words for the patients they serve: we are eternally grateful for your daily contributions as well.
Healthcare is a cognitively demanding profession where caretaking is a rewarding challenge. You go through some of the most intimate moments with people from all walks of life, and it is from these experiences that one develops an altruism towards humankind. Caring for others is a passion for those filled with compassion.
You are the ones who see beyond the medical condition and treat each patient as a whole person with emotions, fears, hopes, and dreams. You are the ones who listen to patients' concerns, offer a shoulder to cry on, and provide a sense of empathy and understanding. In a world where patients are often treated as numbers or diagnoses, you remind us of the importance of human connection.
Nurses and doctors work tirelessly to provide exceptional care to their patients, demonstrating unwavering dedication in every interaction. Take a moment to recognize the sacrifices made by healthcare workers around the world. Let us honor their commitment to healing and their unwavering dedication to serving others.
Thank you for being on the front lines of care. Thank you for your kindness, dedication, and healing touch. Thank you for always putting your patients first no matter how grueling your day. Thank you for providing an empathetic ear and compassionate hand when a life-changing diagnosis is delivered. We thank you for being a rock when waters get rough and we’re fighting for our lives.
Two little words you may not hear every day are the appreciative and resounding words, “Thank you”. Although the two words aren’t voiced often enough, they should be. Today, and every day, we celebrate the incredible impact you have on the world around us. It’s important to express gratitude and appreciation for the remarkable care you provide every chance you get, not just when it's our family that needs it.
Mediterranean Meatballs with Lemon Herbed Couscous & Chickpea Salad
INGREDIENTS
For the Meatballs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground chicken or turkey
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 yellow onion, grated
- 1 lemon zested
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
- Kosher salt and cracked pepper
- Garnish with pickled red onions, feta cheese, tzatziki, hummus, and fresh dill
For the Couscous
- 2 (15-ounce cans) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 (5-ounce) box 365 Whole Foods Market Pearled Lemon & Herb Couscous
- 1 cup coarsely chopped parsley leaves and stems
- 6 ounces Feta, coarsely chopped or crumbled (optional)
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 lemon juiced, or more to taste
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
- Kosher salt and cracked black pepper
INSTRUCTIONS
- For the Meatballs: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Add the lamb, onion, garlic, lemon zest, parsley, dill, cumin, oregano, cayenne, and a pinch each of salt and pepper to a bowl. Coat your hands with olive oil, roll the meat into 2 tablespoon-sized balls (makes 10-12 meatballs), and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Transfer to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the meatballs are crisp or cooked through on the inside.
- For the Couscous: Cook couscous according to package directions. Let cool to room temperature.
- Add couscous and remaining ingredients except feta if using. Season heavily with fresh cracked pepper and stir. Let sit for 10 minutes or up to 2 hours at room temperature.
- Before serving, add feta, and more lemon juice until it tastes bright. This salad can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
