Even in a pandemic, good news and stories abound.

The past 12 months have brought catastrophic fires, a global pandemic, and economic uncertainty. However, breakthroughs in vaccines and treatments have given us hope during the COVID-19 pandemic. Even during a year of uncertainty and anxiety, we have much to celebrate.

The first confirmed U.S. case of the novel coronavirus, which we now know as COVID-19, was diagnosed a year ago, on January 20, 2020  in Snohomish County, Washington. During these past twelve months, we have learned a lot about the virus, our world, and ourselves.

Science was the star of 2020. Treatments, therapies, and an effective vaccine were quickly developed for COVID-19, a testament to modern medicine and scientists. Channeling Jonas Salk, AstraZeneca announced it will not profit from sales of its vaccine, while we are in a pandemic

Within this past year, we have watched many acts of sacrifice, selflessness, and commitment within our community and society. These acts have been as a source of solace, when many felt isolated, uncertain, and doubtful. In fact, many discoveries and good stories came from 2020, although sometimes eclipsed behind dreary statistics. 

Join us for a lighthearted walk through major breakthroughs, discoveries, and stories that showed how strong, capable, and connected we all are, even while in the midst of a global crisis.

January 2020

February 2020

March 2020

  • Scientists find that symptomatic people are spreading covid-19 
  • Healthcare workers become 21st century soldiers; we howl to show our gratitude
  • Technology connects us virtually, telecommuting & telehealth become commonplace
  • Tiger King makes us feel better about our life choices
  • A possible Jurassic Park inches closer to fruition
  • A father’s work-from-home interview goes viral for all the right reasons 

April 2020

May 2020

June 2020

July 2020

August 2020

September 2020

October 2020

November 2020

December 2020

January 2021

As of today, 107,300 COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered to Montanans 

The past year has brought challenges, but it has also brought many successes and moments to celebrate. As we march forward to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, please continue to take steps to reduce COVID-19 spread, care for your mental health, thank a healthcare worker, and celebrate the small daily victories that comfort and unite us as a community. We are in this together.