by Dr. Eva Rabuy-del Rosario, Woodrose Class 1996
When someone is sick, the embrace of a loved one or the visit of a friend does much to boost the spirit. A smile, a short conversation, or any form of human interaction brings comfort and soothes anxieties. One of the cruelties of the COVID-19 disease is that those who suffer must suffer alone.Once admitted to the hospital, strict isolation policies are followed.They are unable to see their families and friends. They are weighed down by the uncertainty of their situation and the fear of worsening condition but find no comforting hand to hold.Technology helps but not everyone is afforded that luxury. Those who are lucky enough to recover from the illness spend at least a week in lonely isolation before being discharged from the hospital.
It is in this context that Dr. Nicole Perreras (Woodrose Class of 2000) started a card-writing initiative for the COVID-19 patients admitted at the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) in Muntinlupa.The project started with an invitation to Dr. Perreras’s friends to ask their children to make handmade get-well cards for patients.Her friends loved the idea and not only had their children participate but also shared the idea with others.
The message read,“My friend, Dr. Nicole Perreras (also a Woodrose alumna) is a doctor in RITM.She is requesting if our kids are interested in creating handmade get well cards that they can give out to their patients to somehow uplift their spirits.Each patient will get a get well card as part of their breakfast tray.”
The simple message calling children to make cards resonated with everyone who received it.It was a welcome opportunity to send a message of hope and comfort.Children who may not have otherwise had an opportunity to take part in relief efforts were given the chance to participate and make an impact.
The message quickly gained traction and was passed around in chat groups and posted on various social media pages.Individuals, groups and institutions promoted the initiative, some even making their own colorful graphics to feature the message.Major news outlets reported on the story.The response was overwhelming.Cards were sent not only for patients but also for healthcare workers at the frontlines.Within less than 24 hours, thousands of cards were submitted.Although originally intended for children, people of all ages and backgrounds shared their creative messages, ranging from simple to intricate, from light-hearted to profound, but all with utmost and genuine concern.
The cards overflowed with heartfelt wishes and gratitude, reflecting the community’s collective sentiments. What started as a personal project shared with friends grew into a unifying endeavor for an entire community eager to stay connected. The outpouring of empathy and encouragement has been truly heartwarming during these uncertain and challenging times.
Note: Dr. Nicole Perreras is a Pediatrician with sub-specialty in Infectious Disease. She is currently a consultant at multiple hospitals and has been affiliated with RITM since 2016.