An open letter from Gary J. Schneer, Director, Bioterrorism Preparedness Health Care Association of New Jersey, spring 2004.

Lucy & Teammates...

I am, in a word, impressed. In a short amount of calendar time, although I know you and your colleagues put in significant time singly and as a group, your work product demonstrates what can be accomplished by a team passionate about its mission. You have done a credible job of identifying, defining, and implementing a plan with support materials to hit head on a real problem for many, but specifically our elderly populations in long term care facilities that need a way to feel comfortable that friends and family are "OK". Your contacts card is a tangible link that I trust will show "wear and tear" not necessarily from actual use but rather like a security blanket and knowing that they have the ability to contact people important to them.

Your "process" and materials can be easily woven into the facility emergency management training scenarios and personalized for residents and staff as well.

Terrorism is real, but if we can reduce the sensationalism and psychological impacts through education and empowerment ( I remember this as a term we all felt key) then focus can be on improving real Quality of Life over things imagined through misconception.

Terrorism "uncontrol" is rampant across the population so there should be many sessions similar to those targeted at seniors, but I think you've selected a population often forgotten by many and by the Grace of God we'll be a part of some day. Lack of knowledge leaves one feeling helpless, which breeds depression, anxiety, hopelessness-and CHAT can help alleviate these aspects relating to terrorism and families.

Great Job! This will be well-received by the Long Term Care Community!!

Regards,

Gary

Gary J. Schnerr
Director, Bioterrorism Preparedness
Health Care Association of New Jersey
4 AAA Drive, Suite 203
Hamilton, NJ 08691
P 609.890.8700
F 609.584.1047
email gary@hcanj.org

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