To the Germ Slayers Who Battle Our Winter Crud, Thank You

Cold and flu season is in full swing and feels like it will last forever. Of course, you are well aware of this. You wake up each day and walk through the doors of your office, clinic, or hospital prepared to face what the rest of us are trying to avoid: GERMS.

I’ve seen you at work, and I have something to say.

Thank you.

For your kindness, compassion, and understanding.

For helping us feel like humans even when we look less than.

For squeezing us into an already full schedule.

For greeting us with an understanding smile and leaving us with wishes to feel better.

For cutting your lunch short and staying late.

For hours spent charting — your work doesn’t end when we walk out the door.

For having a popsicle ready for the little girl getting a painful shot.

For asking how we’re doing and sincerely listening to the answer.

For offering warm blankets as an IV pumps fluids to restore hydration.

For monitoring how our physical health is affecting our mental health.

For making us smile and laugh even in the middle of feeling miserable.

For seeing us in the community and stopping to check in.

For devoting yourself every day to making ours better.

For risking your health to protect ours.

This season of sickness is even longer for you. Eventually our symptoms will fade, but you face them every, single day. This simple thanks doesn’t seem sufficient for the work you do. May your health be protected and your hearts be encouraged. You are truly a gift to everyone who walks through your doors.