More than ever, we need to recognise the importance of the field of health. We must pay attention to it with all that is happening across the world right now. The United Nations’ World Health Day will be observed on April 7, 2020. This day is usually observed to raise awareness to health-related issues. Every year, there is a different theme of observance. The theme this year could not have been more appropriate. It’s the year for: nurses and midwives. In general, I believe all health care workers should be celebrated. From birth to death, health care workers will always be a part of our lives; doing what they can to ensure that our population remains as healthy as possible.

I can remember when my mother and I visited the local health clinic to receive shots. I was scared with teary eyes of receiving injections but the nurses were always so kind. Their kindness drove my fear away and throughout my life I always had similar experiences. My experiences are not only limited to me but also to that of my family members. (Without getting too emotional), my father and grandmother are still here to live another day with me because of Guyanese health care workers. While all health care workers should be celebrated, I think it’s also important to recognise the efforts of those workers in the public sector. Thus far, I have seen public health care workers live beyond the stereotypes of “Public Hospitals do not offer the best services”.

COVID-19; an abbreviation we’re all familiar with by now. This just one major risk these workers are faced with on a day-to-day basis. These workers are our soldiers against this deadly battle against this virus. We ought to life them up, give them support and protect their rights. At the end of the day, when a health care worker takes of their mask, protective suit and gears; they’re still human. As someone who is in a helping profession, I can truly empathise with you all. Amid the chaos, I urge all health care workers to take care of yourselves as well (physically, mentally and emotionally).

The campaigns online of “I am at work so you can stay home” is very powerful. Health care workers across the world held up signs urging people to stay home and at the same time ensures them that they are willing to go out there to work and fight this battle for us all. As we observe World’s Health Day on April 8th, I challenge you, my readers to do something extraordinary for these extraordinary people. Write a poem and tag your favourite health care worker, start an online petition for their support, make a video of encouragement; whatever it is let it be motivational and supportive. I am truly grateful for all the Guyanese health care providers. From medical doctors, nurses, clinical phycologists, sanitation officers and even the auxiliary staff at the medical centers and hospitals—thank you!

If you or anyone you know is suspected to have COVID-19, do not go to a hospital. Instead, contact the national COVID-19 hotline on 227-4986/624-3067