The full effects of Hurricane Ian, which made landfall Sept. 28 along the west coast of Florida, won’t be fully known for days but appear to be devastating. Reports of catastrophic flooding, wind damage, power outages, and the potential loss of life are coming out of the state as responders begin to reach the areas affected by the storm. Hospital staff, already stressed from the ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic, are once again putting aside their personal worries and doing all they can to put patients first and keep them safe.
Less than two weeks ago another storm, Hurricane Fiona, brought catastrophic flooding, power outages, and property loss to Puerto Rico, which has not recovered from the devastating effects of 2017’s Hurricane Maria.
ASHP has reached out to our members in Florida and Puerto Rico to share our concern for them and their loved ones on behalf of the ASHP Board of Directors and staff. We reiterate our pledge of support today and in the days ahead as the affected areas assess their damage and begin to recover from the storms.
ASHP extends our deepest gratitude to all of our members on the front lines as they demonstrate exemplary dedication to their patients, supporting them and ensuring access to the care they will need in the days ahead and over the long term. We greatly respect and admire your resilience and your commitment to patient care.
As a pharmacy community, we are united in our concerns about the safety, health, and well-being of our friends and colleagues affected by the hurricanes. We hope for the best possible outcomes as you navigate through this incredibly challenging time.
We know that many ASHP members would like to help their colleagues recover from the storms. The Miami Herald has named several charitable organizations for those who wish to make donations related to Hurricane Ian. Today.com lists organizations that operate in Puerto Rico and are assisting with hurricane recovery there. Other organizations that accept donations for hurricane relief efforts include the American Red Cross, Project Hope, and the Florida Disaster Fund. Hospitals, health systems, and hospital associations may also establish recovery funds for their staff and communities in the days ahead.
ASHP stands ready to assist our members in the best ways we can. Please reach out to ASHP's Vice President of Member Relations, Hannah Vanderpool ([email protected] or 301-664-8732), if we can be of assistance.
