Dear heroes,

I’ve stared at this blank page for at least the last half hour, searching for the words to express how I’m currently feeling.  The past few weeks have been a whirlwind of emotion that has swept our nation. The chaos, confusion, and fear that many of us have felt only begins to scratch the surface of those working in the healthcare industry, or really any industry deemed ‘essential’ right now. 

I’ve worked within healthcare talent acquisition for 20 years. I’m not on the frontlines, fighting this pandemic; I’m behind a desk, tucked away in my home with my wife and three kids. However, I’m so fortunate to know, partner with and work alongside so many brave men and women right now. Noble men and women, who are committed to this nation’s health and safety, all the while risking their own. How does one express gratitude for that kind of sacrifice? 

I guess if I’m being honest with myself, the task at hand seems impossible. There aren’t words to accurately convey my appreciation for those working tirelessly to protect our communities, but it needs to be said and thus I’ll try. 

Thank you to those of you who’ve put the health of others before your own.

Thank you to those of you who sacrificed the health of your spouses, children, parents, and loved ones to care for ours.

Thank you to those of you who are juggling never-ending shifts and countless hours, despite being exhausted.

Thank you to those of you who put aside your own confusion and fear to calm ours.

Thank you to those of you who sacrificed lunches and breaks to ensure more of us get the aid we need.

Thank you to those of you who weighed bathroom breaks against the lack of supplies, and chose the latter. 

Thank you to those of you who are strained and stressed because of a lack of childcare, yet still showing up every day as though nothing changed. 

Thank you to those of you who are tasked with telling family members they can’t be with loved ones in the hospital because the risk is too high.

Thank you to those of you who are dealing with the unimaginable task of delivering devastating news to families and friends. 

There are so many scenarios that I can’t even fathom, so in the simplest terms – thank you. You’re more than just doctors, nurses, first responders and healthcare professionals. You’re heroes. You and I both know there is more at stake than just the lives of those who are sick. So if you’re reading this, and you’re not in an industry deemed essential right now, I urge you to help these soldiers by practicing social distancing and flattening the curve. 

Thank you again for your desire to serve others, and know that you are making an immeasurable impact in this world, not just today, but every day. 

Sincerely grateful,

 

Andrew Limouris

 

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