Sample 2: Executive Letter

As a communications consultant, I ghost‐wrote the monthly newsletter introduction from the Executive Director of a non‐profit organization in Colorado. This is one of three additional pieces explaining the changes to support programming due to COVID‐19 and Shelter‐In‐Place mandates.

Coping with the new “normal”

Hello everyone,

Suddenly, everything is different: Routines and schedules, interactions, isolation, and it seems there is a great divide between those who catastrophize and those who minimize. How is it possible to find ways to stay connected, get a handle on feeling anxious, or maintain a sense of normalcy?

Are we talking about the Coronavirus or coping with a cancer diagnosis? There are many similarities. Living through the COVID-19 scare might elicit some of the same feelings experienced throughout the cancer experience: those who fear the worst (I’m not going to survive this) and those who see no danger (Everything’s going to be ok – nothing to worry about).

Routines, schedules, and interactions have all changed. Now we are social distancing, physically isolating, working from home – or not working at all – and cancelling events we were looking forward to, much like before when we were scheduling doctor’s appointments, missing work, friends distancing, and not feeling well enough to attend favorite events.

Current events can trigger feelings and images from past traumatic events resulting in posttraumatic stress. Insomnia, intrusive thoughts, anxiety, and fear can be common reactions. In fact, there are several common threads between then and now:

 

  • Shock and disbelief
  • Feelings of helplessness and lack of control
  • Uncertainty and fear of the unknown.

So, here are some suggestions to help regain a sense of control and manage the stress you may be experiencing:

 

  • Find 1-2 things every day that you have control over, even if it’s something small. If you’re really struggling with this, make a list each day of a few things you did have some control over.
  • Practice intentional breathing: https://www.mindful.org/how-to-stop-breathe-listen-andconnect-during-the-covid-outbreak.
  • Make a gratitude jar (coffee can, water glass, etc.): Each day place one message in it of something you’re thankful for. Read the messages at the end of each month and begin again.
  • Find a mantra that works for you. “This too shall pass” is one that works for me in times like this.
  • Find positives in the midst of negatives, for example: Now that I’m home more, I have time to read that novel or try a new recipe.
  • Reach out for support. Being connected now takes more effort due to social distancing but it can be much more meaningful.

As a way to be supportive of our patients, we are offering a weekly online group: Gynecologic Cancer Support, which will meet every Wednesday in April beginning April 1st from 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm. The group is for any woman diagnosed with a gynecologic cancer and will focus on providing coping strategies and support. The video format is HIPPA-compliant and will allow participants to reduce feelings of isolation, anxiety, and uncertainty in this time of social distancing. To request a meeting code to join the group, please send an email to [REDACTED]. We will evaluate the continuation of the group beyond April based on response and need of group participants.

Please, don’t hesitate to reach out to via email or phone if you need to connect. Our Patient Services Director, [REDACTED], is always available at: [REDACTED] or [REDACTED].

I wish you well,

[REDACTED]

Executive Director, [REDACTED]