Day 32

The sudden sound of bagpipes draws residents to their windows and staff out to the parking lot; the military is holding a closing ceremony for their mission here. There are pipes and marching, speeches and flags and plaques, and it is all very ceremonial.

It’s impressive, and kind of touching, watching these familiar faces standing at attention in their uniforms rather than folding laundry or feeding residents in scrubs. Their departure highlights just how far we’ve come: as of today, our entire building has been declared a clean zone. They did that. We did that.

Handshakes and photographs, and then the soldiers pile into their vehicles, and then they’re gone.

Just kidding! They’re coming back for three more shifts this week. Today was only the “official” goodbye.

News for us as well! Nearly all the deployed staff are being withdrawn this week; I’ve had official confirmation that this Friday will be my last day. An end in sight!

It all seems a little sudden, and a bit unusual to be pulling out all the extra support on the same day, especially since our managers on-site only learn about these changes at the same time that we do. But anyway, I’m sure someone has a plan. The CIUSSS giveth, and the CIUSSS taketh away.

Even better news: I’ve asked for 2 weeks’ vacation before returning to my usual position, and it’s been approved. We probably won’t get a parade when we leave, but vacation is a pretty good substitute. I don’t think I’ve ever needed it more.

Day 33

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