Pinay nurse in UK inspired by Piers Morgan’s shoutout

A Filipina nurse in the United Kingdom was inspired to work even harder after British journalist Piers Morgan commended them for combating the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Interviewed on Dobol B sa News TV, Oxford University Hospital discharge coordinator Laurie Tuazon said she was proud of the healthcare she and her fellow Filipino nurses were providing abroad.

“Siyempre proud tayo na na-recognize ang contribution ng mga Filipinos dito sa hospitals sa England.  Ang mga british, mga politicians, they know na ‘yong mga Filipinos ay masisipag,” said Tuazon.

“Alam nila ang mga Pilipino ay isa sa mga maipagmamalaki sa buong mundo.”

Tuazon added that Filipinos gave their patients the best care because it is part of their culture.

“‘Yong mga pasyente alam nila na sila ay assured sa binibigay naming care sa kanila. They know that Filipinos are very caring people.”

Despite the risks, the recognition given Tuazon and other Filipino health workers abroad inspired them to work even harder.

“Nandoon lagi ‘yong agam-agam and worries, ‘di mawawala ‘yon. Pero those words of recognition kind of made our spirits swell,” she said.

Even the health workers who contracted COVID-19 were eager to get back to work because of their dedication to help other people, Tuazon added.

“High spirit pa rin and looking forward to going back after the virus kasi ‘yong dedication nila sa work is always there.”

She added Filipino medical workers would “always be there” to look after their patients. They were their priority.

According to a 24 Oras report, Philippine Ambassador Antonio Manuel R. Lagdameo said there were around 21,000 Filipino frontliners in the UK.

As of April 8, ten Filipino health workers tested positive for COVID-19, with four them having died from the illness.

Tuazon added Filipino nurses who tested positive were being helped by their fellow countrymen by providing food, necessities, and disinfectants.

“Bayanihan kami dito tulad sa Pilipinas. Tulong-tulong kami. We have a big community dito.” — DVM, GMA News