Jisike, a Dedication to our NHS Frontline Workers

I hold space for all our frontline workers, perhaps still surprised to find yourself on this frontline you never signed up for. Jisike

I hold space for our frontline workers who lost their lives proudly in service to patients and families, but also as a disservice to a system that failed to take care of them. Jisike

I hold space for you because the narrative of hero worship simultaneously exults you, whilst robbing you of your humanity. Validating decisions to make you the sacrificial lambs. Jisike

I hold space for you because even though the clapping has subsided, the well of free pizzas has run dry, and you continue to do the work day in and day out unrecognised. Jisike

I hold space for you, recognising in this battle that you are occasionally your own worst enemy. Having been groomed in a culture that does not allow weakness. How can you, the provider be also the seeker of help? Jisike

I hold space acknowledging that you are fighting against two pandemics- one against an ever-changing novel virus, a second against the formidable but invisible enemy- a chimaera of burnout, languishing, PTSD and attrition. Jisike

I hold space because you are human; your fears, anxieties and failures are as valid as your triumphs and success. Jisike

I hold space because you deserve it. Never forget that you are golden. The headlines and attempts to defame can never rub away your shine. Jisike

Thank you to all our frontline healthcare workers.