Right now, the world is facing an unprecedented crisis. COVID-19 presents unique challenges for people of all walks of life, but especially for healthcare workers. During this time, it is critically important to remain calm and safe.

First and foremost, I encourage everyone to review the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidelines for healthcare workers. This is a comprehensive resource that answers a lot of questions—including what to do if there is someone with the virus at your hospital or cancer center. While we move full steam ahead in our own workplaces, let’s ensure we’re doing our best to be communicative, empathetic and transparent with not only our patients but our colleagues as well.

ASTCT is dedicated to helping out not only members of our society, but all of those working in critical care. We’ve opened up a public forum for members of the cellular therapy and transplantation field to share best practices, answer questions and connect in general. We hope this space is a comfort to not only our members, but greater community. All can access this community here.

We also plan on hosting COVID-19 related webinars—which will also be free and available to the public—to get answers during this trying time. Any new education, resources, or updates to the patient guidelines, can be found here on our website.

As you continue to care for your patients, I urge you to not forget yourself. We are used to the immense pressures healthcare can bring—especially in a job in transplantation and cellular therapy—but an event like this is unlike anything we’ve seen in the last 100 years. Let’s be kind to one another and ourselves. Take a few moments to reflect on what you need and remain calm. Reach out to your friends and family that might be alone and isolated now. Support your colleagues as we adjust to these changes.

Together, we will weather this storm. Take care of yourself, and let ASTCT help you along the way.

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