Next we opened it up opening it up to our clients, magazine readers and SJC community. We asked, who is your healthcare hero?

The first 1,000 people to nominate received a voucher for a complimentary one-year magazine subscription to send to their hero. Heroes could choose from Toronto Life, Maclean’s, Chatelaine, Châtelaine or Today’s Parent.

We thank all those who participated, helping to extend appreciation to our incredible healthcare heroes. We share just a handful of the heartfelt submissions we received below. These days especially, it is the many small acts of gratitude and kindness that are having ripple effects in our communities and giving hope to brighter days ahead.

Healthcare Heroes, in your words

“My cousin Jenn is a nurse that works in an Emergency Department near Sarnia. During this stressful and scary time for front-line nurses, she continues to go to work and provides skilled and compassionate care to people. She works long shifts in hot and restrictive equipment without complaining, and bakes treats to bring in for the staff to keep their spirits up!!! She is amazing and I’m so glad to recognize her for her extraordinary work during this time.”

“The dental staff at Princess Margaret Hospital are all heroes. Being the most at risk profession for contracting Covid-19 they remained open throughout and saw patients prior to their radiation and cancer treatments/surgeries. They are selfless and true heroes for showing up to work and risking their health/lives everyday in order to help their patients. Not many people even know they exist. But they do and they are warriors!!!”

“My son Adam is an ER Nurse at Toronto Western Hospital. He helps COVID-19 patients and works 12 hour shifts, 4 days in a row. I am so proud of my son, who tirelessly places his life on the line day & night. I call him my Earth Angel.”

“My sister-in-law is a family physician, ER doctor and hospitalist in Ingersoll, ON. She inspires me with her unwavering commitment to her community and her patients during this time of COVID. She works long hours at the hospital without complaint, and spends hours more at home reading up on the latest recommendations and procedural guidelines to ensure her patients receive the best and safest care possible.”

“Christine has been a Registered Practical Nurse at Lee Manor Nursing Home in Owen Sound for many years. She was there helping patients during the SARS outbreak. She has had a very strenuous year as she is continues her duties as a RPN during the COVID crisis while also working on her specialized training in wound care.”

“My Mom Ingrid, is a dedicated health care hero, looking after others with kidney disease. She provides compassionate care to those who need life sustaining treatment. She has worked through the Covid crisis. Her courage inspires me. Thanks Mom.”

“My sister is a nurse in Toronto, working with families with high risk pregnancies. As family members and partners are not allowed to accompany people to their appointments, she has stepped up to provide more support than ever at a scary and vulnerable time for many families. She makes sure the pregnant people feel supported, takes more time to check in with them about how they are feeling, and advocates for them to have the follow-up they need. She goes to work in challenging circumstances without complaining, and is more committed than ever to women’s health care during this pandemic.”