Like many of us, I was trying to make sense of the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact it was having on millions of lives, including those who were close to me. In 2020 we were surrounded by diverse voices and opinions from around the world; it was quite a lot of information to absorb. It was during this time that I met a mother who helped me appreciate the power of hope.
This mom had brought her lively toddler to the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital for an assessment, as she was concerned about his delay in meeting developmental milestones. She was eager to see the doctor as her visit to the hospital had been delayed because of the stringent lockdown rules. As we sat down to chat, I noticed how exhausted she looked when she gratefully accepted a cup of sweet tea. She shared that she was a mother of four children and had recently left her alcoholic husband, as he did not share the same vision she had for her children.
Making it through a day was about survival and it was tough. Lockdown was particularly hard for her family, as she had lost her part-time job and was not able to ask her neighbours for help when she needed food to feed her children. She spent many hours in the queues at soup kitchens and gave what she could to her children. Watching her gently engage with her toddler, one thing was clear: the love between them was very special. It was one of the most powerful moments I have had the privilege of experiencing. This mom had spent the little money she had to bring her son to the Hospital. Her dream was to ensure that she was able to feed her children every day; to ensure that they were healthy so that they could go to a good school and live their dreams.
Her strength and determination to survive and create a better future for her children reminded me that we are surrounded by many individuals who share a similar vision.
Walking through the corridors of the busy hospital during a pandemic reminds you of the true value of dedication and commitment to saving the lives of children. Every single person has a significant and profoundly relevant role in the hospital community. From the porters who bring a smile to a frightened child when fetching them from their bed for surgery, to the team in the kitchen who have the difficult task of cooking up a tasty storm for children with different dietary requirements, and the cleaning staff responsible for cleanliness and hygiene and laundry that needs to be changed on a daily basis: these and many other selfless individuals touch the lives of our children and their families, and bring hope and comfort in some of their most difficult hours. We are deeply grateful to the doctors, nurses and every single individual in the Red Cross hospital community who have put their lives on the line during a pandemic to ensure our children can grow up and live their dreams.
This mom also reminded me of the importance of kindness. She was grateful for a cup of sweet tea. Even the smallest acts of kindness can make a difference. We want all individuals who have contributed to our cause to know: you have made a very real difference through your act of kindness. Your contribution has not only been instrumental in helping the team in the hospital and the sick and injured children under their care, your donations have also made a profound impact on the lives of the families who love their children.
Thank you for caring. We could not do what we do without you.
With kind regards,
Chantel Cooper
CEO
