Written by Catie Ballenger, American Red Cross
Today, the American Red Cross stood up to fill the gap public health agencies and health care facilities have started to feel. After hearing about the growing concerns and shortages of medical supplies across Colorado, the American Red Cross of Colorado gave 7,000 N95 masks to the Colorado Department of Public Health (CDHS). The masks will be distributed through CDHS across the state to medical facilities in need.
American Red Cross of Colorado and Wyoming, Regional CEO, Gino Greco, was quick to offer the support of supplies. “We are happy to support our partners and agencies in any way that we can. We understand how difficult this time is for anyone and we are willing to do what we can in order to make things easier on the team of people working to make our state a better place.”
The supplies of N95 masks, the heavy-duty masks used by health care workers and other medical supplies have begun to dwindle across the nation. Hospitals are rationing, but this significant shortage could threaten the health of doctors and nurses and may eventually impact hospital patients. The masks given today will help restock dwindling numbers until additional masks are available.
Dr. Renée Marquardt, is the Chief Medical officer at CDHS. Growing concerns over supplies and monitoring the need of more masks have caused concern as the growing pandemic spreads to more people and areas in Colorado. For Dr. Marquand, the partnership with the Red Cross will make a significant and immediate impact. “This literally just brought tears to my eyes and lowered my blood pressure about 20 points. THANK YOU, Red Cross!”
The Red Cross has always worked in partnership with other agencies and organizations that provide services to disaster victims, so there was no hesitation in sharing resources. Colorado Governor, Jared Polis, is also encouraging organizations and partnerships to use this time to come together in order to help and support everyone. “This is a coordinated effort with all state agencies and community partners to utilize every resource available during this difficult time to reduce the severity and duration of the crisis. Together, we will get through this.”
The current pandemic is starting to look like it’s impact will be felt across not only our nation, but the entire world. This challenge will continue to increase demands on the American Red Cross, its staff and volunteers. Together will be here to help each other get through this disaster and make sure we are providing everything we can for the communities in which we serve.