A poem by Rebecca Gonser

Heroes they call us, as we continue to care

As communities cheer with encouragement to share.

While the rest of the world stops, ours feels like a race,

Policies, and announcements at an unmanageable pace. Masks off, masks on, now two per day, Using N95s only when managing an airway. No visitors in, leaving patients in isolation, Leaving us to support throughout their palliation. Insurmountable, gut wrenching fear, Fills myself and every one of my peers. For each interaction comes a risk of infection, How do I ensure my family protection? Colleagues diagnosed and put in quarantine,

The consequences of this virus are vast and unforeseen.

With redeployed staff sent to work in new teams,

Each and every day the measures seem more extreme. The fear is felt across the entire nation. As we watch with horror at countries in desperation.

This week the province is breathing a sigh of relief,

As Ford opens phase 1, much to my disbelief.

For us, this nightmare is long from being done As we continue battling for everyone. The ORs will reopen, and long-term care still suffers,

This second wave will hit us, without much of a buffer.

We are celebrating the nurses, this second week of May, So please listen to us, and what we have to say. As you celebrate and enjoy this holiday weekend,

Wear a mask, wash your hands, and stay 6 feet from your friend.

For the curve has barely flattened, won’t be over for some time,

This pandemic is a marathon, and the curve may again climb.

For each of us, hope and respite is what we seek,

During this year’s pandemic-themed Nursing Week.