An American standard

Oklahomans are no stranger to disaster. From the Oklahoma City federal building bombing in April 1995, to multiple weather-related tragedies since, people from all walks of life have learned to come together in times of crisis. It's become known as the “Oklahoma standard.” Recently, it's been humbling to see that compassion, care and commitment arriving in our state from places far away (“Seeking shelter,”).

Immediately after two storm systems swept through Oklahoma on May 19 and 20, medical facilities across the nation began calling OU Medical System to lend support. Other hospitals offered to help with staffing, sent us food, notes of encouragements and other gifts.

For example, hospitals in the Boston area and in Granbury, Texas—both recently affected by their own tragedies—sent pizzas and sandwiches to our downtown hospital ERs and ICUs as a way to “pay it forward” for the generosity and support they felt during their times of need.

The offers of help continue as this is written. It is with heartfelt appreciation and thanks we give for this new “American standard.”

Charles Spicer Jr., CEO