Healthcare workers around the globe are stepping up in this time of crisis and providing critical care as the number of coronavirus cases continues to soar. Not only are these nurses, doctors, and technicians working long hours, but they're often also doing so with a shortage of masks and PPE equipment to keep themselves protected.
Many have taken to posting selfies after long shifts and explaining just what they've experienced on the ground. From tired eyes to bruised faces, these images are a haunting and realistic look at the men and women who are making sacrifices for the greater good of the community, at great risk to themselves.
Still, people continue to step up to the challenge. In Italy, which has been hit particularly hard, over 7,000 medical professionals responded to a national call for volunteers. Given the shortage of medical workers that Italy is facing due to the sheer number of patients, these volunteers will spread out to areas in dire need of extra help.
“It's an act of love and pride. We are moved. There are people from across Italy and across all age groups, that have decided to go to the frontline because this is a frontline,” shared Francesco Boccia, Minister of Regional Affairs. “Scrolling the names and birth dates brings tears because you see not only young doctors but also 80-year-olds and through this, you really understand our country at this moment.”
This selflessness carries through across the profession, no matter what country, as these healthcare heroes continue to dedicate themselves to their patients. Paying attention to their stories is another way to comprehend the gravity of COVID-19 and to understand why it's so essential to practice social distancing and flatten the curve.
So let's applaud these men and women, as well as all of the employees at essential services like pharmacies and supermarkets who put themselves in harm's way daily.
Healthcare workers are posting photos to share their experience working during the coronavirus pandemic.
This is what you look like after wearing an N95 mask all day. We don’t have enough of anything. We need @SenSanders more than ever now. Help us help you. #SandersSisters #NursesForBernie pic.twitter.com/jfVKPct2cD
— genithecrankynurse (@genithecrankyn1) March 19, 2020
I can't stay home, I'm saving lives! #DoingMyPartCO #HealthcareHeroes pic.twitter.com/CU6mV10khn
— Rachael Simon (@Rachael04418981) March 25, 2020
Dr. Joy Vink is on the frontline of NYC's battle with COVID-19, but without access to proper personal protective gear, she's has no choice but to “get creative.” Forget face shields – she is working in SWIM GOGGLES…our #HealthCareHeroes deserve better! pic.twitter.com/UVVFuK9gYp
— Amplify Her NYC (@AmplifyHerNYC) March 22, 2020
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People are also applauding their loved ones for their incredible, selfless service.
This is my mom. She’s my hero. She’s a 60 year old primary care physician testing patients for #COVID19. She is putting her health on the line to test patients, get them the care they need, and do what she can to prevent community spread and the overburdening of our hospitals. pic.twitter.com/zRjppSxpPn
— Julie Silverbrook (@JMSilverbrook) March 19, 2020
My uncle shared this picture to our family group. He's a Long Island, NY, based physician, 59-year-old, and has a couple of health issues. Still, he's working for 18+ hours everyday while I am complaining about the situation watching Netflix.
May God bless all #HealthcareHeroes. pic.twitter.com/LpRAmvfqCU— Zeeshan Noor (@zeenoortx) March 17, 2020
My bestie — and hero — at Jersey Shore Univ. Med Ctr! @JSUMCNJ pic.twitter.com/TJtyzLtqUd
— SPG (@spg644) March 19, 2020
This is my mom. She’s 71 years old and screening people from the afternoon to midnight. Thank the people that expose themselves and go through hell just to make sure people are safe. pic.twitter.com/e94ABbqJJj
— Cam (@TakinPichas) March 20, 2020
This is my daughter-in-law.
She’s working long long shifts testing #Covid_19 patients.
I’m proud of her and terrified.Continue this thread.
— Lainie (Mosaic Artist) (@armyheromom) March 20, 2020
And my son, frontline ER nurse… pic.twitter.com/9huGMKwHyq
— Sabra Stuermer – she/her (@sabra_stuermer) March 20, 2020
h/t: [Bored Panda]
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