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This week, we’re reminded more than ever that all acts of kindness, big or small, make a difference. The same goes for acts of self-care: even a few minutes can improve well-being.

In light of that, we want to highlight a few stories from the past week that show how our community is coming together in big and small ways — and how you can show yourself and others a little kindness during this stressful time.

A yoga break

During a day of COVID-19 drive-through screening, nurses took a short yoga break to de-stress. National Geographic photographer Aaron Huey caught the moment on camera. Watch the short video.

yoga

Mindful handwashing

Getting tired of singing “Happy Birthday” to yourself while washing your hands? Spiritual Care and Well-Being at UW Medical Center – Montlake has a solution that keeps your hands clean plus gives your mind a moment of peace.

The next time you wash your hands, take three slow, deep breaths. Breathe in for five seconds, then out for five seconds, three times in a row; this gets you to 30 seconds.

A 90-year-old survivor

COVID-19 has tragically taken the lives of many elderly people — but not all of them. Geneva Wood, a great-great-grandmother who is 90 years old, was recently released from Harborview Medical Center after beating the virus. Watch this video to learn more about her incredible story.

New giving fund

UW Medicine opened a new Emergency Response Fund just this week and has already seen an incredible response from the community. People have been making monetary gifts as well as donating much-needed supplies, such as surgical masks, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes. Learn more about the fund here.

Thank you video

The Whole U sent a request to members of the UW community to share why they’re grateful for everyone at UW Medicine. People from all across our community — from atmospheric sciences and biostatistics to human resources and social work — contributed their thanks and encouragement. Watch the video.

Kind words of the week

“Dr. Hira saved my life in early January by clearing a total occlusion of my LAD. I am happy to give to UW Hospital in support of your heroic efforts to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Good luck and God Speed!” -Scott Moore, who contributed to our new giving fund

Share a supportive message

If there is someone — a colleague, supervisor, family member or friend — who you want to thank, you have an opportunity to do so on The Huddle, which now has a place where you can send in messages of thanks, encouragement and support.

Thank you all for your continued hard work and commitment to our patients — and each other.

Sincerely,

Lisa Brandenburg
President, UW Medicine Hospitals & Clinics

Timothy H. Dellit, MD
Chief Medical Officer, UW Medicine
Vice President for Medical Affairs, University of Washington
President, UW Physicians