Valentine’s Day. While the virus forces many to stay in the comfort of their own homes, front-line medical staff are tirelessly fighting hard to save lives. Despite doing an exemplary job, an increased number of reports has emerged on how healthcare staff are being shunned and abused by the ignorant public.
They are not ready to bow out of the profession easily and true to their nature, they take the initiatives to self-motivate themselves. Doctors are seen paying it forward to their healthcare colleagues in their own ways.
Doctor Ganesh Ramalingam , a surgeon who specialises in general surgery, gave out V-Day baskets to all his nurses to encourage them. Each nurse received a basket beautifully packaged with health essentials such as hand sanitisers in different forms and sizes, a box of masks and four different types of immunity boosters.
Doctor Ganesh is always busy in the operating theatre but Lovely Singapore managed to catch him and CEO of G&L Surgical , Lisa Gwee, who helps out on the frontline.
Why the gifts?
“During this crisis, our nurses face scrutiny and fear, from taking public transport to having a meal outside; and even experiencing their own friends avoiding them. We cannot even let our nurses wear their uniforms because they will not be able to get seats during lunch times. People stare at them. Despite it all, they are still all smiles at the clinic, serving patients wholeheartedly. We are thankful for their commitment and sincerity to their jobs. We are also thankful to their families for their support during this time. We are glad they are happy with our thoughts.”
How do you feel? Are both of you upset with the treatment given by some of the public?
“We believe that this is a trying time when we have to put our differences aside and work as one. We should all stand together, united and strong. “
Are you hopeful?
“This is a great opportunity for us as a nation to emerge closer and stronger. Look at this not as a crisis or catastrophe but as a chance to come together and be a true nation against a common cause. When fighting this virus, we are only as strong as the weakest amongst us.”
Who else would you like to thank?
“We would also like to thank everyone who has voiced out their support to healthcare workers during this crisis and all those who have sent us heartwarming messages.”
Like Doctor Ganesh, we need to match our supporting words with action. A big thank you for the sacrifices, courage and efforts for our medical workers on the frontline.