For the next several weeks, I am signing off from my weekly newsletter note in order to spend time with my family and my newborn son, Elias “Eli” Wen Walker. I am extremely excited to be a mother and am proud of the work we do at BCHD to help children, expecting mothers, families and communities in our great city.

I realize that it is a privilege to be able to take this time with my baby as well as have access to healthcare to ensure his and my safety. I don’t take it lightly. Unfortunately, there are many mothers and fathers who are unable to take time away from work or can afford paid leave. It is crucial for parents to have the time with the baby to bond and give them the proper care.

In the interim, my Chief of Staff Kristin Rzeczkowski, along with the great team at BCHD, will handle operations while I am out of the office.

I look forward to returning in the fall.

Sincerely,

Leana Wen, M.D., M.Sc.

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