By Gayla Oakley, RN, CCRP, MAACVPRRN | December 15, 2020

"In the midst of darkness, light persists." - Mahatma Gandhi 

This seems to be one of my favorite quotes right now as I try to and embrace the power of positivity.

After months of chaos and anxiety, we are hoping that there is a "light at the end of the tunnel." Not to downplay the struggles and challenges the world has seen, but there have been some bright spots People have revisited what is really important in their livesa nd how to successfully incorporate change into their "normal" day-to-day activities. We've seen strangers and neighbors alike support one another, local businesses, schools and families in their task of creatively initiating alternative plans. Who would have believed you could celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas by Zoom! 

Cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation centers have seen their own challenges with social distancing, proper gym air exchange and how to set goals and plans for patients that also have post-COVID problems. AACVPR leadership worked tirelessly to help CMS understand the importance of providing rehab and physician supervision remotely.

Although we were unable to meet in person for the AACVPR 35th Annual Meeting, a virtual meeting was well-received and profitable for the organization. It gave an opportunity for members who may not have been able to attend to affordably get the latest, up-to-date education.

How do we transform what we learned and experienced into the future of cardiac and pulmonary rehab?  Evidence proves that rehab effectively improves outcomes but how do we turn that into increased referrals and turnkey strategies?  COVID statistics show that symptoms and outcomes are more severe for those with comorbidities such as obesity, sedentary lifestyle and diabetes.  This may be the time to showcase our core component outcome data to promote those benefits of PR and CR.

I am excited to introduce “AACVPR Affirmations” a new quarterly feature in News and Views.  Beginning in January, this column will highlight member awards, new jobs, retirements and everything in between.  We greatly appreciate our member and everything they do.  Submit your good news  to AACVPR via Google Form. Stay tuned for more details.

May you be able to pick some rays of light from a darker 2020.  However you are able to celebrate, embrace life and laughter.