OP-ED: Plenty of heroes have emerged, says Andrew Foulds

We are living in extraordinary and unsettling times.
 

During this COVID-19 pandemic, Thunder Bay has shown the country that it’s made of the right stuff. Let’s continue to be smart, safe and healthy.
 

In every crisis heroes emerge, the COVID-19 pandemic is no different. The frontline workers and those who support them -- the PSWs, grocery workers, EMS paramedics, police, firefighters, transit and truck drivers, nurses and doctors, pharmacists and health care workers in every field (from Pioneer Ridge to Thunder Bay Regional) – deserve our gratitude. During this time of clear and present danger they have responded with professionalism and honour well beyond the call of duty.
 

As in any crisis of this scale, I am all too painfully aware of the challenges we face: heartbreak, fear, uncertainty, and even anger. It is precisely at these times that we need to show our humanity: our compassion, our understanding and our kindness.
 

We are fighting COVID-19 not only for our health, but for our economic survival and our way of life;- from the single parent, laid off from work, trying desperately to provide some sense of normalcy to their two children who have been forced to learn at home, to the many employees and small businesses such as restaurants, local farms and specialty stores that are being severely impacted .
 

But there is hope. Bombardier has announced a new contract for ventilating masks. Many businesses and employees are pivoting to deliver more takeaway orders. People are surviving their COVID-19 ordeals.
 

So, it all comes down to people. As our Health Unit points out, our mental health is just as important as our physical health.
 

Our spirits, enriched by understanding, compassion, and caring for our neighbours and our community, will strengthen our resolve and vigilance.
 

Now is not the time to let down our guard. We cannot. The stakes are too high. Armed by science, and fueled by hope we can and must persevere. United, we will prevail.