As COVID-19 cases surpassed 1 million in the U.S. by late April, healthcare workers like Dr. Walid Ghurabi, emergency services director at UCLA Medical Center, became the unsung heroes of the pandemic. 🦠 In a raw, emotional account, he reveals the challenges faced by frontline teams—from equipment shortages to battling fear—and shares why 'love for the job' keeps them going.
Behind the Masks: Battling Fear and Fatigue
Dr. Ghurabi describes hospitals as 'war zones,' where staff juggle overcrowded wards, limited PPE, and the emotional toll of losing patients. 'Every day feels like a marathon,' he admits, highlighting the mental strain on workers who worry about infecting their families. 😷
\"Stay Home for Us\": A Plea to the Public
His message is simple but urgent: 'We stay on the front line for you—you stay home for us.' 🏡 By flattening the curve through social distancing, he says, the public can directly support overwhelmed healthcare systems. 💬
Despite the risks, Dr. Ghurabi remains hopeful: 'This is when humanity shines. We’re all in this together.' 🌍✨
