"Today is a gift. That's why it's called the present."

You may have seen or heard this quote, though its origin remains uncertain, with attributions ranging from Eleanor Roosevelt to Dear Abby. Regardless of its source, the sentiment feels particularly fitting as we enter the season of reflection and look ahead to the new year.

On June 2, 2003, I began my journey with EvergreenHealth as a staff hospitalist; on Dec. 10, 2024, I observed my first anniversary as CEO. In the 21 years I've been with EvergreenHealth, I've witnessed incredible transformation. And while change is an inevitable part of any organization, what has remained constant is EvergreenHealth's commitment to purpose, mission, vision, and values—the same ones that were in place when I walked through the front entrance of the hospital for my first shift so many years ago.

As we look ahead to 2025, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on all that you have accomplished this past year. For EvergreenHealth, our accomplishments ranged from delivering consistent award-winning clinical quality and patient safety to strengthening our financial stability. But this was only possible because every division of the organization played a vital role in advancing our mission to enhance the health of our community through high-quality, safe, compassionate, and cost-effective health care.

It's important to keep a sense of historical perspective and never forget EvergreenHealth's humble beginnings and the vital role our community played in establishing our public hospital district. Over the last 52 years, EvergreenHealth has grown in ways that our no one could have imagined possible.

It is, without question, the honor of a lifetime to work alongside our physicians and staff and to serve you and our incredible community. Thank you for coming to EvergreenHealth for your care, and on behalf of our organization, we wish you and your loved ones a safe and happy New Year.