Last week saw Boris Johnson, the Prime Minister of our United Kingdom, admitted to intensive care after contracting a serious case of Covid-19.
It was an extraordinary moment, and will I’m sure go down as one of the defining images of these extraordinary times.
That a man like Boris, with access to the very best treatment and so obviously full of life, could be hit so hard was a powerful reminder of why we have had to take the steps we have to save lives and protect the NHS.
Coronavirus isn’t just a danger to a few, easily-delineated ‘vulnerable groups’. It can come for anyone.
But to me, the response showed our country at its best. After years in which politics has often seemed personal and divisive, it was so heart-warming to see people from all walks of life sending the Prime Minister their good wishes.
I’m especially grateful for all the messages I received from Silhillians, some of which – such as the photograph of our local acute admissions team – became part of the national coverage. When next I see Boris I will be sure to pass on all your kind support.
This spirit was perfectly captured by the Prime Minister in that moving video address thanking the outstanding NHS staff who saved his life. There are rare moments when a politician has the chance to speak for the nation, and that Boris did so – and so powerfully – so soon after leaving hospital is a testament to the man.
I hope that his recovery will come to be seen as an inflection point in this crisis. Every day there are more signs that we are getting on top of the pandemic. Whilst Covid-19 continues to take a tragic toll, the NHS has not been overwhelmed. Nobody is dying in the queue for intensive care.
That’s why it’s so important that we don’t allow our resolve to weaken. We must continue to respect the rules and stay indoors, despite the beautiful weather. There will be more sunny days when this crisis has passed, and they’ll be all the sweeter for it.
