— for life and good bodily health

Dear Sir,
IT must be said that the National Coronavirus Task Force, established by President David A. Granger, has been working, doing all things practicable to keep Guyanese safe from this evil that has suddenly befallen the nations of the world. The post-coronavirus world would be very different from the one we knew before emergence of this pandemic. In a real sense, it is the end of the world as we know it. Yet, in the midst of all the consequences and known and unknown impacts of this unprecedented public health challenge upon our society, coupled with our financial and other limitations, the government is reaching out with support to vulnerable individuals and local communities across the country.

In addition to remodeling and repurposing the Ocean View International Hotel, the government has refitted the Cliff Anderson Sport Complex, the National Gymnasium, and sections of the Georgetown, Diamond, and West Demerara Hospitals for the treatment, isolation and quarantine of COVID- 19 patients. It has to be said that the government is way ahead of the critics.

Sure, they will always be those who would argue that more can be done; still, no one can reasonably doubt the good intention of the government to protect and care for all Guyanese citizens. It is clear, therefore, that the government must not only be commended, but also fully supported by us all.

I think one of the ways we can support this national effort is by paying attention to, and complying with rules and measures thoughtfully put in place to secure the integrity of the health and safety of the public. Hand washing, social distancing, wearing a mask when out in public places, and being considerate of others when shopping essential items are things we must do without a fuss; we owe this personal responsibility not only to ourselves but also to our families, communities and country. Indeed, in these very trying times, we are our brother’s keeper.

However, one of the heartbreaking things about this coronavirus is that individuals who are working on the frontline to provide healthcare to patients stricken by this infectious disease are themselves being infected and dying from it. Reports from around the world show that over 100 doctors, nurses and healthcare workers have died from COVID-19. These healthcare workers do their duties under pressure, and in some cases, without the appropriate personal protective equipment. Many are making the ultimate sacrifice, with their lives, in the line of duty and service.

In Guyana, our doctors, nurses and allied healthcare workers have been doing their best, in not ideal work environment. Many of them leave their homes and families, sometimes before first light, and late at night, on shift rotations, to provide healthcare to those who need it. In some cases, they make it look easy, by ignoring their personal needs and situations to give care to the sick and afflicted at our hospitals. Honestly, it is a good demonstration of their commitment to their work, and patriotism to their country.

Now, with COVID- 19, and an environment reminiscent of war times, they are being called upon to make greater sacrifices to work with the national team to help keep Guyanese safe. Sadly, some members of the public tend to take their commitment and efforts for granted. My own view is that, perhaps, some arrangement could be worked out to ease the burden of having them queuing up at our local commercial banks and supermarkets; they should be given some level of priority. This would not only facilitate their work schedules, but also serve as an incentive to encourage them to keep doing their best at our health institutions.

All in all, I encourage every Guyanese to have an attitude of gratitude and thanksgiving for life and good bodily health; to encourage your relatives, neighbours and friends to obey the rules; and to protect yourself at all times. Remember, we are living in serious times.

Regards,
Royston King