The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge spoke to Fraser Health staff and medical staff working at Surrey Memorial Hospital via video call to hear about their experiences working during COVID-19.
The Duke and Duchess spoke of their appreciation and admiration for those working across the country for their efforts to protect and support patients, families, communities and each other.
Dr. Gregory Haljan, Head of the Department of Critical Care at Surrey Memorial Hospital and Regional Medical Director for Research for Fraser Health participated in the call. He said, “Our conversation with The Duke and Duchess about our response to the COVID-19 pandemic was wonderful. Their thoughtful questions about our experiences gave us a tremendous sense of pride in what our colleagues, patients and families have worked so hard to achieve under such pressure.”
Fiona McLeod, a Clinical Nurse Educator in the Intensive Care Unit at Surrey Memorial Hospital said, “Their Royal Highnesses connecting with us here in Canada highlights that this pandemic has created a worldwide community and brought us together globally. They were kind and gracious and were interested to hear about our lived experiences here at Fraser Health and Surrey Memorial Hospital. I am incredibly grateful for their interest in our health care story and their desire to hear from some of our staff about their experiences.”
The Duke of Cambridge said:
“Catherine and I are proud of all of you and of everyone on the frontline who has led the way very stoically and very bravely, and put patient care right at the top of the list. You’ve done a fantastic job.”
The Duchess of Cambridge said:
“It’s an amazing role that you’re playing and a hugely tough one as well. We’re in huge admiration of everything you’re doing.”
For a link to the conversation, please visit here.