Editor

At last Wales is out of lockdown, we can now travel to spend time with our loved ones. Since the beginning of the pandemic I have worked on the Covid-19 ward as a nurse in Bronglais Hospital. As we all get to grips with the ‘new norm’ I have had time to reflect on the many acts of kindness of so many individuals over the previous months.

Because Covid-19 was clinically a completely new challenge I decided, for my family’s sake, to self isolate. For the first few weeks I was confined to our draughty back room, sleeping on an uncomfortable camp bed. Then I was told about Northfield Holiday Park in Borth, owned by Andrew and his wife Caroline, they were generously offering free accommodation to Hywel Dda workers on the frontline who needed to isolate. Northfield is a haven of tranquillity, with comfortable well-equipped caravans, surrounded by trees, shrubs and lawns, spectacular views across Cardigan Bay. This was a perfect place to return to after a 12-hour shift. Caroline and Andrew were amazing hosts, so positive and cheerful despite the fact that, like many places in Borth, their business was on hold, their future in the balance, yet they remained optimistic and nothing was too much trouble.

Living in Borth during lockdown could have been very lonely, in fact it was quite uplifting. It was the people who made the place special, walking into the local shop which sold everything one needed, and being greeted by a cheerful smile. I enjoyed sitting on the sea wall watching the waves and contemplating our changing lives, but I was never there alone for long, people who I did not know often joined me, socially distancing, for a chat. I met so many interesting and kind individuals. So a very big thank you to the people in Borth who made me feel so welcome during such difficult times, and particularly to Andrew and Caroline.

I was privileged to be part of a dedicated team on the Covid ward. There were some very difficult, busy, emotional, days, a lot of very hot days wrapped in layers of PPE. Yet the generosity of the public never ceased to amaze me, my thanks go to the many people and businesses who sent messages of support, cards, letters, supplies of food, drinks and many more things to the ward which kept us going through the difficult times. They were really appreciated.

I cannot fail to mention the Thursday clap for key workers. Walking out of the hospital one Thursday after a very long, hot and difficult shift, I was confronted by clapping and the most beautiful solo violinist, I felt an enormous sense of support from the community, it was difficult to hold back my tears.

Sadly the coronavirus has not gone away, nor has the team on the Covid ward, always ready if we are needed. I hope we can make the rest of this summer a good one, please remember to socially distance, be aware and stay safe.

Suzanne Williams

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