President's PerspectiveAs we gather together with family and friends to share food and fellowship this Thanksgiving holiday, we reflect on the honored profession of health care and share our blessings with each other.

At times, events around us can seem overwhelming. We pause and give thanks for the individuals that work to help others fight illness and disease. Health care workers are not inspired by recognition. Their calling is one of servant leadership. They are fulfilling a fundamental need to give of themselves and we all benefit from their selfless acts of kindness.

It is said that to be continually “thankful” is a unique way to experience the world around us, a different way to perceive, a way to be surprised. To express “remembrance” is a key virtue of gratitude; that is demonstrated through expressing sincere appreciation.

This year, on behalf of all South Dakotans, we join together to say “Thank you” to the health care professionals for all that they do, the lives they save, the communities they serve. We congratulate them for setting a standard of excellence and give thanks to those who devote their lifework toward improving the health status for all of us.

Happy Thanksgiving!