Local students have been busy putting pen to paper to help boost morale for healthcare workers as they deal with challenging conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Staff from Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District (NBMLHD) have been receiving artworks and letters of thanks from schools around the region who are taking part in the Healthcare Heroes initiative.
The messages of support have been shared with healthcare staff in Penrith, the Blue Mountains and Lithgow, including those at testing and vaccination clinics, and pathology labs.
Nepean Hospital Emergency Department Deputy Director, Dr Mark Salter said the acknowledgment from the local community has been very motivating.
“We love to hear from our community, and especially the children, who tell us they’re cheering for us and appreciate the work that we do,” he said.
“We’re so thankful for the words of encouragement we’ve received.”
St Marys South Public School Principal, Harris Vassila, said the school is proud to be involved to show its support for health professionals as they continue to deal with the pandemic.
“As a school community, we’ve worked hard to help support our students adapt to the challenges COVID-19 has presented,” he said.
“Taking part in Healthcare Heroes has allowed our students to have an active role in directly supporting our local healthcare workers.”
Mr Vassila said the response from the school’s children wanting to spread positivity has been amazing.
“Students were very excited and enthusiastic to help the doctors, nurses and health experts,” he said.
“We can see that creating their art and messages has given our kids a great sense of empowerment and understanding of how they can help and impact their wider community, even during difficult times.”
The community is also being invited to take part in the Healthcare Heroes Initiative by emailing photos of letters or artworks to [email protected].
A graduate of Western Sydney University, Emily covers Local, State and Federal politics for the Weekender, as well as crime and general news.
