Masked Heroes - AZ Rivierenland
On the front lines of a global pandemic
Rumst (Antwerp) - Healthcare workers of the AZ Rivierenland hospital are seen wearing masks, surgical caps and full-body gowns, as they pose for a portrait during a brief break from caring for COVID-19 patients. Some of them have been working a 10-hour shift. They are worn out and tired.
The men and women pictured above represent some of the thousands of professionals spread across Belgium who day in and day out have been working tirelessly to save the lives of those affected by the coronavirus while risking their own in the process. Mothers, fathers, husbands, wives toiling on the front lines of a global and unprecedented pandemic.
Ever since its outbreak in Belgium, the number of reported cases and fatalities have grown at a dizzying rate, despite strict government measures and constant media appeals. As of May 5, over 8000 people have died in Belgium from the consequences of Covid-19. From those numbers, 40 patients have perished at AZ Rivierenland, where initial response has been chaotic, to say the least.
“No one was initially prepared for this pandemic,” said Cathy Crickx, chief nursing officer of the operating unit at AZ Rivierenland. “We had to adapt very quickly to a new reality and way of working. Luckily, we are resilient and together we stand strong.”
Even greater than the physical impact, has been the emotional toll taken on its nurses and doctors. While the number of new hospital admissions has been gradually decreasing, the impact on human lives has been significant. Behind every death is a family member, a friend, a loved one left behind. Oftentimes without a chance to say goodbye.
“Witnessing patients being separated from their family members has been particularly hard” said Kristel De Cuyper, nurse of a COVID-19 unit. “A terrible hallmark of this pandemic is the way it has isolated family members from patients. Standing alongside them in their final moments is a small measure of comfort we can provide”.
If there's at least one silver lining to the ongoing crisis, it’s the countless gestures of solidarity and humanity that has allowed them to stay on their feet amid uncertainty and fatigue. These moments of support are greatly appreciated by the healthcare workers, who are applauded daily for their unwavering dedication and hard work.
“The support and generosity has been overwhelming” said Patrick Coopman, chief nursing officer of the intensive care unit. “We are seeing it all over the country.”
Once they reenter their wards, however, the grim reality of the coronavirus becomes clear once again. It goes without saying a pandemic of this kind and magnitude will only get worse if nurses and doctors get sick themselves and are unable to do their job. Recently, the good weather has drawn hundreds of people outdoors despite prolonged lockdown measures, with some even becoming lax about physical distancing.
"We hope the worst is over, but if numbers begin to surge again, then we’re back to square one” he continues.
This pandemic has left these masked heroes exhausted and anxious. Worried they might contract the virus themselves and bring it back home to their family. Yet their spirit remains positive and strong.
Their job is far from done.
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Acknowledgements go to Sofie Vermeulen, head of communications and the entire team of AZ Rivierenland for their dedication, courage and hard work during these turbulent and uncertain times.
