1 April 2021

Paediatric nurse Rachel Parsons has shared the poem she wrote as part of National Reflection Day last week. 

My face eaten away by the masks,
My personality dissolving.
Why did I want to nurse?
Why is it my calling?

It is not for being called a hero,
It isn’t for the claps,
It isn’t for the rewarding feeling,
It isn’t for a pat on the back!

I am here to nurse to care for you,
When you are at your lowest,
Offer you the respect and care,
In your last moments give you solace.

I close my eyes and see your faces,
Not one of you forgotten,
Now I say goodbye after cleaning your skin and carefully wrap you in cotton.

Words written in books to tell your ICU story,
Words spoken to urge your safe recovery,
Your NHS pupiteering your organs,
Battling the Covid inside you, deep exhaustion.

Loved ones left grieving,
A nation caged in a depressive feeling,
However strong bonds will be formed,
The light will come with vaccines in our arms.