Holiday Greetings from PMH CEO

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Every year, the holiday season seems to sneak up on us, and sometimes for different reasons. Last year, we had mild weather over the holidays and little snow, so that caught us off guard. It’s a different scenario altogether this year. There’s no worry about not having a white Christmas; in fact, some areas may have experienced more snow than they did most of last year. This is great for outdoor winter activities. Snowshoes anyone?

I would like to take a moment to reflect on the extra things our staff do during the winter months that may go unnoticed.  Despite unfavourable winter road and weather, staff consistently go out of their way to ensure our many facilities and services continue to operate.  Whether it’s clearing snow from entrances, exits, parking lots, and other places in between, cleaning waiting areas, hallways and patient rooms, or making sure we have plans in place in case nasty weather hits, there is a lot to consider over the winter season.

Many times, our staff are also there to lend extra support, a listening ear, or reassuring hand to those who are in our hospitals, personal care homes, and the community who are not able to be with their families during the holiday season. We are deeply grateful for their dedicated care and compassion!

Some timely tips to consider over the holiday season:

• When considering visitation at our sites, if an ‘in-person’ visit isn’t possible, PMH encourages families to provide a personal device, such as a cell phone or iPad, to their family member for a direct connection.

• Let health centre patients and personal care home residents know you are thinking of them by visiting the PMH website and filling out the “well wishes” information. By making this request, it will be delivered directly to the person on your behalf.

• For those who have lost loved ones or for those facing other stressors and challenges, the holiday season is an extremely difficult time of year. PMH provides mental health services and support for those in need. We all have mental health, and we have to continue to make our well-being a priority. Remember, ‘that if you don’t make time for your wellness, you will be forced to take time for illness.’ To learn about the available resources and supports, please visit our website.

• Consider donating to a worthy cause in your community. It may include a Community Health Foundation, Hospital Foundation, Food Bank, or Hot Meal Program.

Here’s to a holiday season filled with love, happiness, fellowship and memories. Decorating the tree, exchanging gifts, celebrating traditions, watching heartwarming movies, enjoying a festive meal, volunteering —whichever ways you choose to celebrate, our wish is that you make it as enjoyable as ever! Maybe even a snowshoe race this year?

On behalf of the PMH Board of Directors, our Executive Management and Regional Leadership Team and our staff, we wish everyone a safe, healthy and happy holiday season and all the best in 2025.

Treena Slate, CEO
Prairie Mountain Health