Editor’s note: The following information was provided by SSM Health, the parent of St. Mary’s Hospitals in Janesville and Madison, as well as the Dean Medical Group.

Throughout the pandemic, SSM Health has experienced numerous challenges and witnessed the strength found within community. We recently had a unique opportunity to share, with our broader community, the story of SSM Health and our incredible team members. A 60-minute version of our Behind the Mask documentary aired Oct. 14 in primetime on area NBC-TV affiliate stations . The film is also featured on our YouTube channel. Hall of Fame broadcaster Bob Costas narrates the film.

Behind the Mask honors SSM Health’s heroic team members who are following in the footsteps of our five founding sisters who arrived in St. Louis nearly 150 years ago, initially serving amid a devastating smallpox epidemic. The SSM Health team has carried their perseverance, dedication and compassion forward to present day by caring for more than 80,000 people with COVID-19, while simultaneously bringing hope and healing to countless others.

The documentary features some extraordinary stories of courage, resilience and sacrifice that have occurred across our healing ministry throughout the past 18 months. It calls us to remember those we’ve lost and those who are still suffering. Most importantly, these stories remind us to join our hearts in gratitude for one another, and all those who walk with us in this journey.