Josie Osborne, Minister of Health, has issued the following statement acknowledging the National Day of Observance for COVID-19:

“On this National Day of Observance for COVID-19, we take time to remember and honour those we lost during the pandemic. In British Columbia alone, more than 6,600 people lost their lives to COVID-19, and today we reflect on their memory and the families who continue to carry that loss.

“We also recognize the many people living with long COVID whose lives have been deeply affected by the lasting impacts of this disease. For them and their loved ones, the effects continue to shape their health, their work and their daily lives.

“Today is a moment to remember, to reflect and to stand with everyone whose lives have been forever changed by the pandemic. 

“During the pandemic, health-care workers throughout the province provided outstanding care on the front lines, as well as crucial supports behind the scenes in administrative and research roles. They worked selflessly, with professionalism and compassion, and helped guide us through this crisis.

“We rose to the challenge of the pandemic by following public-health guidelines, getting vaccinated and supporting our most vulnerable community members.

“The pandemic reminded us that our most valuable lines of defence are a commitment to working together, and a strong public health-care system. While we are out of the pandemic, we remain grateful to the health-care workers who provide invaluable supports each and every day. We will continue to invest in health services so people throughout British Columbia can receive care when and where they need it.”

Dr. Bonnie Henry, provincial health officer, said:

“Six years ago, the SARS CoV-2 virus upended our world and forced us all to make many changes to protect ourselves, our families and our communities. Everybody in B.C. and around the globe was affected, but we know some people suffered more than others – particularly those most vulnerable to severe illness and death from the virus. We also remember the sacrifices of others, especially young people who missed important ceremonies and transitions in their lives to keep those they care about safe.

“Today is a time to reflect on the extraordinary challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, and to remember those who lost their lives and those who still endure the lasting effects of this illness. We remember the seniors and Elders we lost, those people in our lives who carried the knowledge and history of families and communities. And we recognize the courage and resilience of First Nations, Métis and Inuit people throughout B.C. who carried a greater burden from this pandemic due to the ongoing impact of historic injustices.

“The COVID-19 pandemic reminded us of the importance of community, and how responding to a crisis with kindness and compassion is essential to weathering the storm. Today, we are also grateful for everyone who stepped up and stayed away from others when they were sick, covered their mouth when they coughed, wore masks and kept a safe distance when it was needed, and got vaccinated when the vaccine finally arrived.

“Thank you for doing your part to stop the spread of this virus, even when doing so required making sacrifices in your personal and professional lives.”