They are everyday heroes.
Our police, firefighters, paramedics, doctors and nurses serve our community in good times, but in mostly times of great need…and there has been no greater need than in the past year in the face of the global COVID-19 pandemic.
In today’s (March 25) edition, we at the Optimist, along with many community leaders and businesses, pay tribute and salute our first responders and caregivers for the immense sacrifice that they have all shown in the past year.
We interviewed folks from Delta police, Delta fire, local paramedics and Delta Hospital officials to get an idea of what life has been like, how the job has changed and the challenges faced.
Each of these stories are unique and many were much longer than what we could offer up in print, so I would encourage readers to check out the stories on our website in the coming days.
One common thread between them all is the feelings of teamwork, not only with their own colleagues, but with government and health officials and their fellow first responders.
Police, fire, hospital staff and paramedics have a long history of working together in times of crisis, where everyone has played a role in that emergency situation, but a pandemic of this nature has brought those relationships even closer and it would appear even stronger.
I can’t imagine the stress and anxiety that our first responders have taken on in the past year. Leaving behind their families on a daily basis, to put themselves at great risk to ensure the health and safety of our community. Then, at the end of their shift, the stress and anxiety of making sure they continue to be safe so they can return to their families. It’s an amazing burden to hold onto.
So as you read their stories, say a little prayer and offer thanks to all who serve and keep us safe.
