Leading Indiana through one of the most challenging years in recent history has brought opportunities for inspiration for Governor Eric Holcomb. During last week’s COVID-19 press conference, Holcomb said he doesn’t let the challenge anchor him to a place of despair.
“It’s been phenomenal to watch so many people come to so many others’ aid,” Holcomb said, “and I don’t let the folks who try to tear that down or remain in denial get in the way of all the good in all that we’ve endured and what we should remember both in terms of loss and gain throughout this past year.”
State Health Commissioner Dr. Kris Box said the past year has been the most challenging time of her professional career. She specifically cited the loss of life, impact on long-term care facilities, and, more recently, not having enough vaccine for everyone who wants it.
“So now is a time of incredible hope and light, that, really, I see that ability for the Hoosiers to get back to the lives that we’re missing, that we love, our loved ones,” Box said. “And I’m just incredibly blessed to be sitting next to this gentleman on my right for all these weeks because the real true burden fell on his shoulders for a lot of the major decisions that had to be made, taking input from all over the state and from all of his consultants.”
Box also said there’s been an incredible team effort with many physicians from hospital systems and local health departments across the state.
Last week’s briefing was state officials’ last regularly-scheduled COVID-19 press conference, but the governor stressed that updates will continue to be provided as necessary.
