Today’s Middle is anything but complex. We all know that personal protective equipment (PPE) is in short supply around the world and right here at home. Did you see the story of the flights that went to China to pick up PPE, only to be turned back empty? Lucky for us, Canadian kindness and “in this together” mindset runs deep.
So here’s the deal: a grassroots volunteer group gathering much-needed PPE needs you to spread the word. I’m asking that you take a look at ConquerCOVID.ca, and then pass along the info to your circle of friends and co-workers.
If you want to see just how resilient and motivated Canadians are, it’s reassuring to see that even pandemic conjures a classic Canadian reaction.
It’s this “in this together” mantra at the foundation of this grassroots, volunteer driven, initiative. Spearheaded by Hockey Hall of Famer (and future physician) Haley Wickenheiser, we all have something to offer in support of conquerCOVID.ca.
All by herself, Wick is a force of nature, but she is anything but alone. Many of us are jumping on her team – doctors, business leaders, entrepreneurs, community organizations – oh, and Ryan Reynolds. Did I mention Ryan Reynolds yet? Yeah, Deadpool is feeling his Canadian roots in a big way. The goal is to identify need, find the goods required, and then fill that need at light speed.
It’s an impressive team, but we need YOU. Get on board with this driven and engaged group – and here’s how.
Think masks, gloves, and other supplies essential in treating patients and minimizing the spread of this virus. They will take it all: ventilators; two-way baby monitors with audio function (used in hospitals to protect frontliners); tablets, mask making materials; diapers; formula and other items for women’s shelters; and more. Yes, the list is lengthy, but this movement is working.
It’s all about awareness. If you have something to offer, reach out. Donate any PPE you might have; masks and gloves are used in all sorts of trades and businesses.
Wick and the team are eliminating bureaucracy in the path of PPE to frontliners. There’s zero red tape. Donated goods get to hospitals and homes where the need is greatest, as fast as humanly possible.
How do they know what’s needed, where? The website has a button for that, with big letters asking “DO YOU NEED OUR HELP?”
This initiative is the epitome of Canadian kindness in the face of crisis. It’s straight up, hands on, get ‘er done, vital goods management in a time of chaos.
We can all help. If you don’t have the money to make a donation, your efforts in spreading the word on this is worth a fortune to volunteers. If you do have $30 to spend, get yourself a conquerCOVID.ca t-shirt.
Ryan explains the shirt in detail here, heads up — it’s not exactly safe for work…unless in your home office and don’t mind a swear or two. I’ve watched it about a dozen times. It’s most excellent if you need a laugh.
Let’s conquer this together. As Dr. Bonnie says, “be safe, be kind, and if you can … stay home.” We will get through this together. Now hit SHARE.
Jody Vance is a born and raised Vancouverite who’s spent 30 years in both local and national media. The first woman in the history of Canadian TV to host her own sports show in primetime, since 2011 she’s been working in both TV and radio covering news and current affairs.
SWIM ON:
- Jody Vance last wrote about the suddenly crucial importance of shopping local.
- As we learned from last Friday's detailed update, BC still has a long way to go - but the curve is flattening.
- Speaking of Jody, she and George Affleck brought pure fire to last week's UnSpun. Seriously, go watch and/or listen.
