Unprecedented. Uncertain. Unforeseeable. Unpredictable. Unsettling.  U. N. – two little letters that are used to give negative or opposite force that seem to be everyday words now – and just one more of the “un” knowns we’ve combatted since the coronavirus spread through our country.

But here’s what we do know. While we seek answers, traverse new territory, and combat this negative force, we are finding creative ways to care for and communicate with one another. We are banding together in amazing ways to keep our cherished residents, families and team members safe, healthy and connected.

A quote that has resonated with me is from Phil Jackson, a famed basketball player and coach, “The strength of the team is each individual member. The strength of each member is the team.” The COVID-19 crisis may be testing our patience, our best practices and our fortitude. But, it’s also bringing out just how strong we really are as individuals, companies and an industry. The fact is, at MBK Senior Living, we remain resolute in our commitment to exceeding our residents’ expectations by providing top-quality service and care in a warm way that promotes whole-person wellbeing.

That commitment is demonstrated daily at MBK Senior Living communities. I see it in the way our teams have pulled together, providing encouragement and continuous support across our portfolio of 32 communities. I see it in the way our community management teams have clearly, calmly communicated difficult news, and listened compassionately to those with concerns. I see it in our COVID-19 response that has over 20 heightened protocols to keep our residents and team members safe.

I see it in our residents who have cooperated fully with requests and restrictions, and who have sent numerous messages of gratitude for the lengths we’ve gone to keep them safe. I see it in families and community members who have respected the prudence of not visiting our communities but have found imaginative ways to show our residents just how loved they are (like over 300 cars lining up to parade around one of our Utah communities). I see it in the number of industry colleagues, partners and vendors who have reached out with the simple words, “what can I do to help?” And, who have come through with ideas, solutions and aid when requested.

There is no getting around the fact that these are very uncertain, unimaginable times. We fully appreciate that you may be feeling weary, stressed and fearful. It’s said “strength grows in moments when you think you can’t go on, but you keep going anyway.” If there is something we at MBK Senior Living can do to help you “keep going,” please don’t hesitate to reach out.      I believe that together, we are strong enough to prevail.

Until then, we’ll keep fighting the good fight. Stay safe. Stay well. Stay strong.

- Jeff Fischer