Health organizations are asking everyone to mark the one-year anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic with a candlelight vigil.
In a display of solidarity, 20 health organizations across the province are asking the public to remember those who have died from the virus by honouring their memory and reflecting on the hope that lies ahead.
The more than 7,050 lives lost and the tens of thousands who became ill from COVID-19 in Ontario represent a watershed moment in our lives. “Everyone has been affected by the pandemic and we need to remember the tragic loss of life, those who required critical care, and the effect this has had on families, friends, health-care workers and other essential services. A candle symbolizes hope as we look to the future and to better days ahead within our own communities, the province, Canada and countries around the world,” says Dr. Doris Grinspun, RNAO’s CEO.
We want to remind members of the public to follow public health measures in effect in their respective communities and regions. This includes minimizing contacts, wearing masks, practising physical distancing, washing your hands frequently and following public health advice regarding gatherings inside and outside. Encourage everyone around you to get a vaccine when it is offered to them.
They are asking people to light a candle as a sign of remembrance at 7 tonight and to share their tributes on social media using the hashtags #Candle4COVID and #TogetherWeCanDoIt.
Today, we join health organizations across the province in asking Ontarians to help us remember those who've died from #COVID19. Light a candle to honour their memory & reflect on the hope that lies ahead. #Candle4COVID Learn more: https://t.co/UZTVaIauJT pic.twitter.com/3QLvihrkme
— Ontario Hospital Association (@OntHospitalAssn) March 11, 2021
Today marks one year since the @WHO declared #COVID19 a global pandemic. Since then, Ontario has tragically lost more than 7,000 lives to this deadly virus. Today we honour those who have lost their lives by lighting a #Candle4COVID. #TogetherWeCanDoIt pic.twitter.com/WVT0vNWUbT
— Ontario Ministry of Health (@ONThealth) March 11, 2021
Today marks one year since the @WHO declared #COVID19 a global pandemic. Since then Ontario has tragically lost more than 7,000 lives to this deadly virus. Today we honour those who have lost their lives with a #Candle4COVID pic.twitter.com/cJ9dpsD4q5
— Christine Elliott (@celliottability) March 11, 2021