Letter from the CCO

To the Nurses of San Luis Valley Health:

As I was sitting at my desk writing this letter, I looked up and saw that it was one of our most beautiful days to date here in the great San Luis Valley.  It was warm, and the sun was shining bright.

How fitting that this was the case, as I write this letter to you.  After all, you brighten so many people’s day.  From our patients, who are at the core of all that is important at San Luis Valley Health, to your colleagues, who count on you every day.  From our Senior Administrative Team, who appreciates all that you do, to your families, who support you unconditionally.  Yes, you provide a bright spot in so many people’s day. 

We have much to be proud of over the last year.  We are now San Luis Valley Health; two hospitals, five clinics, one team.  We have been recognized for record low numbers in both readmissions and infection rates. 

This Saturday, four of our own will be recognized at the Florence Nightingale Luminary Awards in Denver.  Afton, Alan, Dawn, and Shannon, congratulations.  What a tremendous honor that has come your way.  Each of you embodies the spirit and teamwork that we strive for at San Luis Valley Health on a daily basis.

Afton, Alan, Dawn, and Shannon each submitted remarks for a recent story on their nominations.  What stood out to me was their humility and gratitude in recognizing and thanking all of their colleagues for all that they do.  Our teamwork and togetherness has brought us to new heights, and that same commitment to each other will continue to take us further.

As we celebrate Nurse’s Week and next week, Hospital Week, I want to personally thank you all for your contributions and dedication to the San Luis Valley.   We all know it takes many disciplines to excel in healthcare so I want to thank all of our employees for their dedication to providing excellent care and support.  On behalf of our entire organization and the thousands of patients we serve, THANK YOU.  I thank each one of you for your selflessness, for your positive demeanors, and for your consistent efforts in providing excellent care to those that need it most.   You are what makes our work special.  Happy Nurse’s Week!

All the best,

Patti Thompson

Chief Clinical Officer, San Luis Valley Health