2020 will not be forgotten. It seems like a lifetime ago that we heard about a dangerous virus which had made its way over to the UK from Northern Italy via a ‘super spreader.’ At the time we were heading into the unknown - it seemed like the news had digested one of the many sci-fi books that tell stories of viruses taking over the world.
Everyone has had to overcome challenges thrown at them by Covid-19. The shopkeeper who has had to keep their doors closed. The care worker who has had to isolate from friends & family in order to continue caring. The office worker who lives alone and has missed out on everyday social interaction. The parents who have had to transform the kitchen table both into an office and into a classroom. And of course, those who have tragically lost loved ones; both those who have succumbed to this awful virus, as well as those who died of other causes but couldn’t have their family & friends gather to say goodbye.
It has been a cruel year in many respects and humanity has been pushed to its limits. However, I really do think 2020 will be remembered mostly for the lightness that was thrown onto the darkness by communities across the world.
Firstly, by those brave healthcare workers who time & time again continue to put themselves on the front line in our hospitals. By other key workers who continue to go to work because society needs them more than ever – teachers, childcare providers, supermarket workers, the police – the list goes on. By every single person who came together to clap on their doorstep for the NHS, by those who donated meals to front line workers, and by those who did the shopping for a vulnerable neighbour or relative. And crucially, by the truly remarkable scientists who have worked day and night to deliver us the life-changing vaccines.
So, whatever this year has thrown at you – take comfort from the fact that we all come together, in some way or another. And with that spirit we can deal with whatever the world decides to throw at us.
And whilst it isn’t over yet and Tier 4 sounds like a horrible way to start 2021; with the news of the additional Oxford vaccine, we are ready to continue delivering the vaccine to absolutely everybody who needs it.
The at the end of the tunnel and with just one last effort from everybody to protect those we hold dear; As HM The Queen said so movingly in her address to the nation, ‘We will meet again’.
Of course, 2020 won’t just be remembered for Covid-19. The shocking death of George Floyd in May served as a tragic reminder of just how important it is to ensure that we treat everybody equally in every aspect of life. Bush fires in Australia highlighted the need for Governments across the world to prioritise protecting our environment for future generations. And of course, 2020 finishes with a Brexit trade deal between the UK & the EU. There will of course be mixed emotions, but I hope that in the spirit of coming together, 2021 will be more about working in partnership with all our global neighbours and here in the UK by healing political divisions and working together more.
I hope that 2021 will be a happy & healthy one for you & your family.
