This post was written by Jessica Nguyen, a former member of our team.
You should know that I’m a lifelong Kansas City Royals fan. And, like the Broncos, we too, suffered a heart-breaking loss in 2014 that landed us in second place for the season. Fortunately, every new year brings a new opportunity.
With the Mets in the lead 3-1 by the sixth inning of the first game this World Series, I was already feeling uneasy. We ran in two to tie it up, but a key error let the Mets pull ahead again, and then it was the bottom of the ninth. My heart had been racing before; now it just stopped altogether. A homer from Alex Gordon, and we were back in the ball game. The roar of the crowd swept through Kauffman Stadium! The game continued on to be the second longest World Series game ever, lasting 5 hours and 9 minutes, and spanning 14 innings.
Sports has the ability to unify communities in a way few other things can. We refer to our teams in terms of ‘we’ even though we have never put on the jersey, stepped on the field, and hit a home run. We’re observers, not participants, but nonetheless we feel ownership of and unity with all those who wear our team’s colors. Immersed in the thrill and drama of the unfolding scenes of the game, it doesn’t matter our politics, background, skin color, or religion; we set aside our differences and root for a common cause. Watching the ocean of fans in blue on television, texting my family and friends, and reading through social media feeds, I cannot help but feel that even when I am hundreds of miles away, I am with my community.
We put a large emphasis on community in our work here at CCMU. We know that the most effective and long-lasting change comes about when we take the time to involve communities in the development and implementation of new solutions. Community members and leaders understand best what is happening in their own backyard, what struggles they are currently facing, and what is helping them thrive. Around the state, heath alliances, comprised of local leaders, health care providers, businesses, city and county staff, and residents are working together to improve their community’s health. Like fans of any sports team, they are diverse in their perspectives, backgrounds, and opinions; however, they set aside their differences to work towards the common goal of ensuring their local health care system meets the needs of all residents.
There is great strength in community, and we’re proud to support Colorado’s incredible communities in their health systems change efforts. We’re also proud to be supported by a community of individuals and organizations who believe in our mission and vision. If you would like to show your support, Colorado Gives Day is December 8, and you can make a contribution to help us continue our work. We hope you’ll take this opportunity to give where you live! Just as the Royals continued on to become Worlds Series Champions, making 2015 a memorable year for Kansas City fans everywhere, your support can help CCMU finish the year off strong. Thanks!