On the night of Oct. 1, our country again fell victim to an act of hate and violence with another mass shooting occurring, this time, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Currently with 59 deaths, this is the worst mass shooting event in our nation’s history. We invite your prayers for all those impacted by this latest tragedy. Our hearts grieve with those who have lost loved ones.
As details of the shooting emerged, we were again reminded of how events seemingly far away can have an impact close to home. Four of our students, three from the School of Nursing and one from the School of Medicine, were in the crowd. Additionally, several of our medical staff members were there, one of whose husband was grazed by a bullet, but not seriously injured. We were relieved to learn of their safety, though all were understandably shaken. Unfortunately, a relative of one of our faculty members was among the fatalities.
Jesus calls us to love one another as He loves us. In times of crises we must remember His words: “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35) These tragic moments remind us to offer our emotional support and encouragement as medical facilities and their staffs in Las Vegas are called into service, just as we were on the day of the San Bernardino shooting less than two years ago.
We are currently aware of three facilities in Las Vegas that are treating the majority of those injured — University Medical Center, Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center, and Dignity Health-St. Rose Dominican Hospital.
Loma Linda University Medical Center is planning to send large banners with staff signatures and messages of support to each hospital where victims were treated. These banners will offer our love, prayers, support and caring.
They are displayed for signing in the A-level employee entrance of the Medical Center. An additional banner will be posted for signing at LLU Medical Center – Murrieta.
We know that each of these horrible situations produces a wide range of feelings and emotions within the hearts of health care professionals as they conduct lifesaving duties. Let our care, love and empathy serve as a beacon of light and encouragement to our colleagues in Las Vegas as they continue to deal with this moment of darkness and evil.
Thank you,
Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President of Loma Linda University Health
Kerry Heinrich, JD
Chief executive officer for Loma Linda University Medical Center