Let’s not forget their sacrifice

At the start of the pandemic, I requested to join a Facebook group comprised of members who identified mostly as nurses. In true social media fashion, there was no need for verification. But talking to enough healthcare professionals, I’ve come to recognize the tone and verbiage often used only by those in true service to patients. A few months ago, I stopped checking in as much, as vaccination rates went up and fewer cases were confirmed.

Then over Thanksgiving break, I dropped in to thank these workers since many have felt that the initial reverence over their sacrifice was subsiding.

What I read was alarming.

The industry has been rocked by staffing issues, so it was no surprise that disillusioned and tired workers were sharing tips on leaving clinical work.

But the anger and sheer hopelessness relayed, not just about their work and their patients but their lives in general, should worry us all.

In one post, the group reacted to a chart that sets a scale for their emotions. “Thoughts of self-harm, easily enraged, withdrawal from relationships and dependence on drugs” were on the far end of the spectrum. During the summer, many members were retreating from those feelings. But in late November, more said they experienced negative feelings once again.

Sitting in my family’s home, preparing for a dinner with 13 of my loved ones,

I felt selfish and sad. I wondered how many nurses and doctors would spend Thanksgiving at home.

All of the adults in my family are vaccinated. The children who can be are as well. But I thought about the three elderly members who are still vulnerable to breakthrough illness and the one infant with the constant runny nose. They would be the burden to tired and despondent front-line workers.

So many of us have been able to return to some version of our pre-pandemic lives, but not them. Not the heroes we lauded and depended on for their service. No wonder they’re leaving the profession.

During this holiday season, I give thanks for the nurses and doctors and support staff who have been relentless in their service. And to those who have chosen a new path, I hope you will find peace and newfound passion.