Why this P.E.I. family is sending thank yous to Dr. Heather Morrison amid COVID-19 and thinks you should too

When Islander Amanda Beazley's 11-year-old son created ahomemade thank-you card addressed toDr. Heather Morrison, the province's chief public health officer, Beazley decided to share the gestureof gratitude online.

"I've been thinking a lot about the impact this is going to have on kids and parents and families as a whole," Beazley said.

"I thought it's good to express gratitude and it's good to encourage kids to do that, obviously ... and I just thought what a nice way to spend a lot of time with our kids, be creative with our kids and kind of open up that dialogue."

I'd love for thank-you cards and for thank-you notes and pictures and whatever else to make it to Dr. Morrison. Amanda Beazley

She said the activity has allowed her and her husband to haveopen conversations with her pre-teen son about COVID-19 in ways that challenge some of the information he's come across online.

"It's interesting with a pre-teen because they do have a bit more online access and access to this information," she said.

Talking about COVID-19

Beazley said they've also been trying to make sure their sonunderstands what pandemic means locally and nationally in a way that he doesn't feel overwhelmed.

She said that in a time full of uncertainty she has been in aweto watch Morrison lead Islanders through the challenging situation.

"I'm just amazed by her right now. She has shown really strong, competent leadership," Beazley said.

"I'd love for thank-you cards and for thank-you notes and pictures and whatever else to make it to Dr. Morrison and her team because they're working so hard," she said.

Beazley said she plans to mail her son's card soonto Dr. Morrison's office at the Sullivan building. She suggested those who want to share their own notes use the hashtag#thankyouDrM.

"Eventually someone will let her know that those are there and she can have a look at them, hopefully, when she gets some downtime."

And the love for Dr. Morrison continues from one of the Island's businesses.

Charlottetown's Tangerine Hair and Spa posted on its Facebook page that she'sinvited for a spa day once concerns over the pandemic have eased, as a gesture of gratitude.

COVID-19: What you need to know

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Common symptoms include:

• Fever.
• Cough.
• Tiredness.

But more serious symptoms can develop, including difficulty breathing and pneumonia, which can lead to death.

What should I do if I feel sick?

Isolate yourself andcall your local public health authority. Do not visit an emergency room or urgent care centre to get tested.

How can I protect myself?

• Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Be aware ofevolving travel advisoriesto different regions.

More detailed information on the outbreak is available on thefederal government's website.

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