Facing challenge with strength

By Dr. Jaclynn Faffer, President/ CEO

If ever there was a time for resilience, that time is now. Resilience is the process of adapting well in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats or significant sources of stress. COVID- 19 certainly fits that description. It is important to clarify that being resilient does not mean that one does not experience difficulty or distress. People who have suffered major adversity or trauma in their lives commonly experience emotional pain and stress. In fact, becoming resilient might involve the experience of considerable emotional distress.

Since the beginning of March, when this pandemic began, we have witnessed the resiliency of our members, clients, staff, volunteers and board. Among this group are our Holocaust survivors.

Currently, NSC is providing comprehensive services to 18 Holocaust survivors. We are grateful to the Federation of Greater Naples for funding this program. Our survivors are showing great resilience as they deal with the ramifications of COVID-19. Our staff is checking in with them, perhaps on a more frequent basis, as we continue to assess just how they are doing emotionally during these difficult times.

Research has shown that current trauma is likely to reactivate memories of past trauma. Through my professional affiliations, I am aware of colleagues working with emotionally fragile survivors experiencing significant emotional setbacks during the pandemic.

As NSC professional staff continues their work with the survivors we serve, we have become aware of their resilience. More than one has told us that the pandemic pales before the horrific atrocities they experienced. They are not emotionally overwhelmed by the restrictions of COVID-19. They know we are here to help them handle the challenges they face.

The survivors continue to receive food pantry supplies, a hot lunch and financial assistance, where indicated, for home health care, insurance and rent. They look forward to continuing their participation in our virtual senior center programming, combating the isolation and loneliness exacerbated by COVID-19.

Naples Senior Center is honored to be able to be here for the survivors and the over 1,600 seniors we serve as they face current challenges, with strength, one day at a time.