National Doctors' Day: 5 Frontline Workers Open Up About Their Experiences of the Pandemic

"Not all heroes wear capes," has never made more sense. As the nation grapples with the aftermath of the deadly second wave of coronavirus, life as we know it no longer stands the same. The ongoing pandemic has broken apart loved ones, has destroyed families, has orphaned children, and has instilled an impending sense of doom in all our lives. 

But at the same time, we must bow our heads in respect for the ones who have put their own lives on the line to save others—those whom they have never even met or seen before. From police personnel to healthcare workers and armed and security forces, the past year has brought to light the power of humanity, selflessness, and sacrifice. And, as we celebrate doctors' and their altruism on National Doctors' Day, Cosmo spoke with five such warriors who are worthy of all praise. 

 

Dr Charu Dutt Arora, Infectious Disease Specialist and Covid Care Expert, Asian Institute of Medical Sciences, Faridabad

 

"Being a frontline worker, every single day has posed a novel challenge. I still remember a 70-year-old patient who was put on an invasive ventilator for nearly two weeks. He fought hard, and at the time of his discharge, he said, "Dr Charu, be brave...but be easy on yourself. If you don't stay healthy, hundreds will suffer." Those words stayed with me and have changed my perspective towards life. All of us try to be over-ambitious, but in the process, we often forget the little things that have a massive impact on our well-being. A casual cup of tea with my parents and just ten minutes with my dog recharges my brain so that I can give my 100 per cent. During these trying times, let's support one another and attend to our own physical and mental health as well."

 

Dr Arvind Malik, M.S, Deputy CMO, CHC Chaprauli

 

"This past year has taught me how to address patients' stress and anxieties more efficiently. While coronavirus takes a toll on your physical health, it greatly impacts one's mental health as well and can be overwhelming for patients and their families. Hence, as a doctor, I try my best to talk to these patients, calm them down, and advise them to fight their disease head-on, with a clear mind."

 

Dr Tarun Sahni, Internal Medicine Specialist, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi

 

"It is the everlasting motivation, dedication, and passion of doctors towards providing the best possible patient care, that has maintained a unity amongst the entire healthcare fraternity. For a doctor, a recovering patient is a constant source of motivation. The healing and happy faces often make us forget our own trials and tribulations. And, this relentless approach and devotion to the field make it evident that whatever gets thrown our way, we will be ready to shield mankind." 

 

Dr Nikhil Modi, Senior Consultant, Respiratory and Pulmonary Care, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi

 

We are all aware that the pandemic is far from over, and that the second wave was more challenging than the first. As a frontline worker, I have seen an elevated number of sick patients during this time, and the only ray of hope that kept my motivation going was witnessing patients recover. A patient's will to live life and beat the deadly virus served as a constant source of motivation that kept all of us united and determined. While the time that lies ahead may throw more curveballs, the trinity of unity, devotion, and motivation will make us win the battle against Covid-19." 

 

Dr Ashish Vashistha, Director and HOD, Department of General Surgery and Robotics, Max Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi

 

"Although I have been a practising doctor for more than 25 years now, the pandemic taught me the true meaning of service before self. The unforeseen surge in cases took us all by surprise. Yet, when it was our turn to assist our fellow beings, we rose to the occasion. I remember having to operate on an emergency case during the peak of the pandemic, and while the experience was daunting, it reminded me exactly why I chose to do what I do. This National doctors' day, let us all imbibe the spirit of unity, come together, and be there for one another till the end of time. Stay safe, wear a mask, and get vaccinated for your own self as well as those around you."