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From Paul B. Gardent, Executive Vice President
We are all shocked and saddened by the evolving tragedy created by Hurricane Katrina's impact on Louisiana, Mississippi and the Gulf Coast. The loss of so many lives and the horrible devastation is heart-wrenching. All of us in the DHMC family share a sense of grief and dismay over this incomprehensible disaster. Many, many of our DHMC staff, students and volunteers are expressing a desire to help the victims struggling to survive and rebuild their lives.
We all ask what our DHMC community can do to help. Relief agencies are stressing that coordination of assistance efforts is most important at this time of crisis. As there are a variety of actions being considered by hospitals and our colleagues across the country, we are working with the American Hospital Association and other national organizations to coordinate the most effective responses. As we learn of specific needs and plans where we can be helpful, we will let you know.
Relief agencies are indicating that what is needed most right now is monetary support for the disaster relief efforts, which are expected to continue for months. Many of you have asked if DHMC can collect donations for victims of Hurricane Katrina's devastation. It is our feeling that the quickest and most efficient way to get help to victims is to work through established relief agencies. Therefore, we are offering DHMC staff the opportunity to make donations through links on our public web site and intranet site. If you go to <www.dhmc.org> you will see a link titled, "Donate to Hurricane Katrina Relief." This site provides a link to the main disaster relief web site for the American Red Cross. You will be able to donate online or make a donation by mail or phone.
Being part of an organization which is dedicated to helping people, all of us here at DHMC naturally want to help those in need. This hurricane and its disastrous aftermath has created an overwhelming human need. We encourage you to help meet that need with a financial contribution. If you would prefer to give to a relief agency other than the American Red Cross, we encourage you to do so.
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