The coronavirus pandemic has hit a Veterans’ Home in Lebanon hard. Monday , the Oregon Health Authority announced a 2nd death there to COVID-19, and there are more than 30 positive cases among the residents and staff. But, people from all over are sending messages of comfort.
The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs calls it “Operation Well Wish”. They asked people to send videos, cards, and letters to the folks at the Veterans’ Home to tell them they are cared for and remembered. Here’s a video from 15-year-old Katie in Oregon.
My brother’s in the military currently and so it means so much to me that you guys went out and fought for our country to keep it free and keep it safe. Thank you so much.”
And from Janet Lee in Florida:
“Thank you for your service and all that you have done for your country. You are loved and you are appreciated.”
The videos are broadcast to residents on closed-circuit televisions in their rooms as the Home is practicing social distancing to prevent the spread of the virus.
Staff say the well wishes have been a huge boost.
If you would like to be part of Operation Well Wish, please send your cards, letters or other materials in an unlicked envelope to ATTN: Operation Well Wish, Oregon Veterans’ Home, 600 N. 5th St., Lebanon, OR 97355. Videos may be sent to ODVAInformation@odva.state.or.us.
