Dear Vancouver staff, physicians and volunteers,

As we reflect on the past year this holiday season, we could point to impressive data as evidence of our achievements — but we don’t need to.

Our focus on quality can be seen in our academic excellence, in our delivery of care and service, and in our improving access for patients and clients in need. We have the numbers to prove it. But, more importantly, we have the people to back it up.

We have the pleasure of hearing from patients, clients, families — and you — every day. We hear stories of the very real and positive differences you’re making in people’s lives. We hear of the pride you take in providing best care.

It hasn’t been easy. It’s taken a lot of hard work on your part, and we recognize that the redesign and realignment of services have been felt keenly by some as they adjust to new teams and new work locations.

As always, your professionalism shone through.

Thanks to you, we’re providing more people the right services at the right time. We’re enabling more people to return or remain home, near family and friends. We’re enhancing the patient and client experience.

For this, and so much more, we’re immensely grateful and proud to serve on the same team as you. Thank you for your passion for excellence, your tenacity and for always rising to the challenge.

We also extend a special thanks to all volunteers, physicians and staff working through the holiday season. You make it possible for your colleagues and friends to spend this special time of year with their loved ones, and you brighten the days for our shared patients and clients.

In 2015, we’ll continue our journey together, and we’ll have more achievements to celebrate. Until then, we wish you and your families Happy Holidays and a very Happy New Year.