What an unprecedented time we are in right now, and as the majority of Americans do their part in flattening the curve by staying home, it’s imperative that we continue to support those who can’t stay home becuase they are out there on the front line.
I recently came across a trending hashtag and wanted to jump on the movement, “Hearts for Healthcare Workers”, as it immediately spoke to my heart. I, myself, am a healthcare provider, but I’m blessed to be in the education realm right now, so Covid19 has overtaken my life in the same manner as it has for the front line healthcare workers.
When you become a healthcare worker, you take an oath to put patients first, and that is a natural oath, as these individuals have a heart that wants to help. However, these healthcare workers thought putting patients first meant working long hours, skipping lunch hours and bathroom breaks, and fighting for coverage of the services that are deemed medically necessary for their patients. I assure you, no healthcare worker thought of today’s scenario, and how a normal day of work is no longer normal. These individuals are sacrificing themselves and their family to fight this virus and heal those already infected. Their stress levels are higher than ever before, and they wake up every day hoping the nightmare is over.
These individuals are just ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances right now, and acting with courage and honor as they continue to heal. For that, you are all my heroes!!
Now, I can’t finish this post without thanking all of the other amazing heroes out there who are working to keep this country alive and thriving. From the farmers, to the truck drivers, to the grocery store clerks, to the restaurant employees, and of course our first responders, you too are doing amazing things right now and should be commended.
I challenge you all to take a moment and find a way to say “thank you” to these heroes. Here is a list of a few suggestions I can offer up:
1. Starbucks Drink on You: Many of our local grocery and big name stores have a Starbucks within the store. If you are going in to shop for your essential items (aka groceries), then grab a few $5 gift cards and hand them to some of the workers who assist you.
2. Create Signs of Support: You can see our display above, but it can be something so simple as one little heart made out of construction paper displayed on a window saying “Thank You”.
3. Write a Thank You Email: Check to see whether your local hospital website has a generic email listed, and I encourage you to either write a thank you to the employees, or better yet, have your kiddos share their thoughts. Have your kids been inspired to become a frontline healthcare workers because of this pandemic? If so, tell them, because now is a great time for them to hear that!
4. Front Porch Care Package: You may be opting in to have groceries or personal items delivered to your house, and there are carriers working diligently to keep those deliveries coming. Create a little basket outside your house with things like water, soda, hydration drinks, canned food, snacks, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, etc with a sign letting them know you appreciate their commitment and they are welcome to take anything they may need.
5. Support Local Small Businesses: You’ve heard this a lot, but it’s so important. Call ahead, order your takeout, go pick it up and enjoy, but not first without also offering up a nice tip to those who prepared your take out. Keep in mind that those employees may have been servers and depended on their weekly tips. Just a few extra dollars tacked on to your order is a big blessing for another!
No matter if the act is big or small, it’s the heart behind it that matters. Remember, one of the greatest gifts we can give others is our support!