I first came to Alaska in 1947 as a seaman on an Army transport ship. Worked on construction of the original Seward Highway at Girdwood 1949-1950. Following Army combat service in the Korean War, I pursued both state and federal careers along with military reserve service.
I appreciate the many people I worked with that developed Alaska into the great state it is today. And I appreciate that the state recognized our value and developed the Pioneer Homes to provide a quality of life in recognition of our contributions. The news that several residents and staff members of the Anchorage Pioneer Home tested positive for COVID-19 was very troubling. I am aware of just how vulnerable our Alaska Pioneers are, being one, and how insidious this coronavirus is in infecting the elderly.
I have the greatest respect for the staff and how they have been able to maintain the Anchorage Pioneer Home closed and free from exposure since closing to visitors in mid-March. Yet somehow the coronavirus has made it inside this assisted living home and required extra effort and isolation. I am confident that the staff will put the extra effort in to manage the outbreak, protect the residents’ health and well-being, and maintain the quality of life they enjoy in our state-run home.
Continuing to age in Alaska is something that I genuinely enjoy, but also am happy that the option for assistance is available to those of us who have contributed to the great state that we chose to grow old in. I am optimistic and see a bright future for those in the Anchorage Pioneer Home and the families that are providing the moral support and expressions of care as we bring the coronavirus under control. My praise to the staff and residents for working through this and know that we care. I encourage other pioneers and the various older persons’ organization members to reach out and express support for the Anchorage Pioneer Home and the other Alaska Pioneer Homes in support of their diligence in living with the Coronavirus pandemic.
Gordon Severson
Past President, Pioneers of Alaska Igloo #15
Member, Alaska Pioneer Homes Advisory Board
Anchorage
Have something on your mind? Send to letters@adn.com or click here to submit via any web browser. Letters under 200 words have the best chance of being published. Writers should disclose any personal or professional connections with the subjects of their letters. Letters are edited for accuracy, clarity and length.