WE HAVE ALL been deeply affected by the tragic events our country experienced on Sept. 11 when terrorists slammed planes into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and the ground outside of Pittsburgh, killing and injuring thousands.

To all of the individuals and families who mourn the loss of loved ones, our thoughts are with you. The HomeCare family has grieved the loss, applauded the courage and been inspired by the sacrifice of so many for the good of us all. We will forever be indebted to all those who have given so much in responding to the national crisis.

In my new role as publisher HomeCare, of my appreciation has grown for what we do on a daily basis to assist those in need of care. That appreciation has been heightened by this industry's response in a time of national crisis.

Cara Bachenheimer, noted Washington-based health care attorney and long-time industry leader, after witnessing the attack on the Pentagon, asserted that “it is time for the industry to step up to the plate and show the public the kinds of services it can provide when the country most needs them.” That is what we did.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services told providers, “Help people. Don't worry about payment.” CMS urged home medical equipment providers and other health care businesses in Manhattan, Washington and Pittsburgh, the areas targeted by the terrorist attacks, to serve those needing care without worrying about their Medicare, Medicaid or SCHIP enrollment status.

It was a generous offer, but our industry didn't need to hear that to inspire it to respond. Providers, both local and national, and manufacturers as well immediately offered practical aid. A senior vice president of sales from one of the major manufacturers delivered respiratory supplies late into the night to a FEMA Center deep in Manhattan after a desperate call. Although it took him hours to maneuver through the city, he reached his destination and was able to assist with the relief effort.

Other providers battled to get into the stricken areas to offer aid to hospitals and emergency relief facilities. One such provider said that he received requests from an area hospital for oxygen cylinders and respiratory medicines. It took him hours to deliver them, and when he got to the relief site, he donated his supply.

Teams, which included competitors, coordinated efforts to contact patients to ensure that they had respiratory supplies to last for two or three days and that those on ventilators knew how to react in an emergency. Plans were devised to evacuate clients with mobility needs if need be.

We “stepped up to the plate” and showed the country the kinds of services and support we can provide during a time of crisis. We donated time and supplies. We showed commitment and spirit. We shared our passion as an industry.

As we come together this month at Medtrade East in New Orleans, it will most likely be as changed people. But as an industry, we have not changed. We are accustomed to showing up, to helping out, to giving more. We do it every day. Sept. 11's terrible destruction called us to action, and we responded with everything we had.

And for hurting people, that made a difference.