If you are fighting COVID-19, clap your hands

Overwhelming, heartwarming and fun. The feelings when people open their doors and windows to clap for those working in healthcare.

In England, once a week at 8 pm noise as a manifestation of support floods the streets. In Colombia it was done too, whistling, "woohooing," and hitting pots and pans. Nevertheless, not everyone shares the sentiment, while the government struggles to supply with the right equipment and pay health workers, there are cruel people out there. A doctor arrived one night to find his door with a death threat against his family if he didn't leave the building. All kinds of discrimination against health professionals have been reported, not long ago, a health worker was denied access to a bank due to fear of carrying the virus.

Even though these are specific cases, they are proof of a broken society. What happens in a society where compassion seems to be missing, and solidarity was thrown out the window?. Colombia is no stranger to loss, grief and fear. But right now, those negative feelings are being addressed towards the wrong people. Just for a second, please, think before doing or saying something. All doctors are on call, doesn't matter their speciality, medical students are going through the toughest test ever, and they do it because they took an oath. They promised to help and do everything in their power to save lives, doesn't matter whose.

They do it despite the conditions they are working in, an overload of hours with no significant increase in their salary and lack of medical supplies. Why add to their stress having to face discrimination?

Clap, so their families know they are not alone, give a thumbs up when you cross them on the street, buy them a cup of coffee while you are at the waiting room. If the spread continues, it won't be because of them; they have to stick to cleaning procedures at all times, they understand first hand the importance of not spreading it.

Clap, because instead of freaking out or resigning, they kept working for their country. Clap, give them the strength they need. And you, healthcare worker, clap at the end of your shift. Clap before stepping inside the hospital. Clap because no one is braver than you. Clap because you are a hero.

Clap for everyone out there looking for a cure. Clap because all those late nights studying qualified you to this challenge. Clap because you are key. If you are fighting COVID-19, Clap your hands!

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