Surrey Memorial Hospital staff get royal thank you
Posted July 1, 2020 8:26 am.
Last Updated July 1, 2020 10:26 pm.
SURREY (NEWS 1130) — Six doctors and nurses at Surrey Memorial Hospital received a special thank you for their hard work during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The healthcare workers spoke with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge over a video stream, Tuesday.
The royals wanted to hear about what the past few weeks have been like and had nothing but gratitude for the team during the seven-minute call.
“It’s an amazing role that you’re playing and a hugely tough one as well. We’re in huge admiration of everything you’re doing,” Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge
Prince William asked about some of the challenges the frontline staff have been facing on a daily basis.
On Canada Day we say thank you to frontline workers across the country for your amazing work protecting and supporting your communities.#CanadaDay | @FraserHealth pic.twitter.com/IYoWdw2yTd
— The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (@KensingtonRoyal) July 1, 2020
Losing the ability to get to know the family of patients is one struggle said the healthcare workers, as well as physically distancing from their own families.
“Catherine and I are proud of all of you and of everyone on the frontline who has led the way very stoically and very bravely, and put patient care right at the top of the list. You’ve done a fantastic job,” the Duke says.
One of the doctors involved in the call says the conversation was wonderful.
“Their thoughtful questions about our experiences gave us a tremendous sense of pride in what our colleagues, patients and families have worked so hard to achieve under such pressure,” says Dr. Gregory Haljan, head of the department of critical care.
The virtual connection left one nurse feeling grateful for William and Kate’s interest in their experience.
“Their Royal Highnesses connecting with us here in Canada highlights that this pandemic has created a worldwide community and brought us together globally,” says Fiona McLeod, a clinical nurse in the intensive care unit. “They were kind and gracious and were interested to hear about our lived experiences here at Fraser Health and Surrey Memorial Hospital.”
