Taking a moment for fun

In such unprecedented times, we often focus only on what needs to get done — taking care of our patients, our families and ourselves — and we forget to allow for moments of fun. Even when things are scary, stressful and exhausting, as they are now, it can be a relief to rekindle a sense of humor.

To that end, this week we’re focusing on things that aren’t just encouraging and supportive but are also fun.

Social distancing cheering

Yesterday, the teams at Harborview Medical Center and UW Medical Center’s Montlake and Northwest campuses participated in a social distancing cheer session with the Seattle Fire Department. We’re so grateful for the fire department’s support — plus, it’s fun to cheer each other on.

A trumpet tribute

A group of internationally known trumpet players created a five-minute concert called “A Hope for the Future” in honor of healthcare workers on the front lines of the pandemic. Watch the concert here.

Happy feet

Across UW Medicine, our providers have been brightening each other’s days — literally — by wearing colorful patterned socks. This past Wednesday, Harborview Medical Center held a “COVID Cuff Day” and encouraged everyone to get stylish and wear their best knee-highs. Katie Hammond, a nurse at Harborview, even started an Instagram account to share photos of all the fancy feet. Aside from being fun, the socks also serve a practical purpose by preventing scrubs from dragging on the ground and being contaminated by the environment.

Written on the sidewalk

We love these sweet messages left on the sidewalk in front of UW Medical Center – Montlake. We don’t know who the artists are, but we’re grateful for their support.

Color your world

Have some free time and want to do something artistic? UW Medicine’s social media team created a coloring page so you can take a mindful moment and add some color to your life. Download it here.

Kind words of the week

“It’s taken me most of today to think of a proper way to say thank you. There are no words to say how I feel about our UW family, so let this be my ‘virtual’ hug to each and every one of you!” Gretchen B., Academic, Rural and Regional Affairs

We hope everyone has a good weekend — and that you all take a moment to have a little fun.