Hero: a person noted for courageous acts or nobility of character
In times of crisis, we are reminded of the few who selflessly go out of their way to care for and defend the rest. While many of us are doing our part by staying at home, there are those few on the frontlines risking their health and the health of their loved ones. These are the nurses, doctors, EMTs, firemen, police officers, and other healthcare professionals and defenders of the peace.
Project Good has received so many stories of these heroes, shared by either themselves, friends, or loved ones, that we wanted to take the time and offer our appreciation to the brave individuals and to remind the rest of us of their dedication and bravery in the face of danger.
From all of us at Solo Stove, we thank you and hope for your safety, as well as the safety of your families.
We want to share with you some of the many Project Good submissions involving these heroes on the frontlines.
Kristin C., shared by their friend, Stephanie
“My dear friend Kristin C. is a nurse in the operation room at our local hospital. She is a closet comedian and brings so much joy to her patients and coworkers, even in dark times.”
Ian S., shared by their mother, Cathi
“My son, Ian S., was just 29 years old when he was promoted to Fire Captain in the St. Louis Fire Department. He is the youngest captain in the department’s history. The honor was based on work ethic, concern for others, passion for his job, and, ultimately, personal character. These characteristics are paramount in today’s crisis to not only lead and get in the trenches with his crew but to meet the needs of people in crisis. Ian is a first responder, and a fire department’s calls are not merely fire emergencies. In inner-city St. Louis he is frequently responding to gunshot victims, persons overdosing in the throes of addiction, car crash victims, and various other medical emergencies. He administers CPR and up close and personal care. There has never been more danger to Ian’s personal health and safety than now. Yet, he never hesitates or wavers. He takes on extra shifts, never speaks or self-concern or worry. Social distancing does not apply when he responds to crisis. Ian is a servant to his community and is committed to saving lives.”
Mike W., shared by their spouse, Kristin
“My husband is supportive and kind. Like many, he is forced to work from home, though he is limited in what he can do from the home office he has set up on the kitchen island. Instead, he has stepped as a stay-at-home dad, caring for our children, homeschooling, shopping, and cooking. He supports me and comforts me as I work as a nurse in the hospital. After every shift, I come home to find a clean towel at the door. He knows I have to take my shoes and scrubs off before I enter. He knows my workday is not done until I have showered. He asks how my day was and knows when I don’t want to talk about it. He stays strong for us.”
Toni B., Radiologic Technologist
“I am currently working the frontlines against COVID-19 as a radiologic technologist. Any patient that has suspected COVID-19 is getting a chest x-ray. It can be daunting to go in-and-out of rooms knowing I could possibly take this nasty virus home to my family. I am working numerous hours and my husband is working from home while trying to take care of our two young children that are out of daycare at the moment.”
Kevin L., shared by their spouse, Heidi
“My husband is an emergency room nurse in one of our local hospitals. Our new normal looks a little different these days. It means he sometimes works in the COVID-19 tent outside the hospital building and now takes his scrubs off in our garage. It means he doesn’t always get to “stay at home” like the rest of us, and “working from home” isn’t an option. He doesn’t complain about going to work because giving unselfishly to those he cares for is something he’s been doing long before we all entered lockdown. He’s unique in that he went back to school to become a nurse through an accelerated program, and shortly after graduation, he worked as a nurse for a bit until he chose to work full-time at a church instead. Fast forward to today, he is now once again working full-time in the hospital as a nurse and fills in as a pastor at our church on occasion. His heart is caring for people remains the same, regardless of his environment.”
Amy J., shared by their friend, Alison
“Amy is a nurse at a hospital in Baltimore, MD. Amy has been nothing less than positive and strong in her work helping patients during the pandemic. When she found out that masks and other PPEs (Personal Protective Equipment} would be relegated to the COVID-19 unit, she told me she was part of a team and that her work is always a team effort. There is a good chance she might be exposed to COVID-19 while working do to limited supplies of PPEs. Her “all in” attitude is inspiring! She supports us, her friends, who are working and stressed, but safe from being infected. She doesn’t judge or have a “poor me” point of view.”