I see you,

Beneath the mask,

Visor, gown

And gloves.

Wearing your new skin.

Protecting yourself.

Protecting me.


I see you,

The redeployed nurse

With panic in your eyes.

Acting like a swan,

Out of your comfort zone.

Role modelling resilience.


I see you,

The domestic staff.

An integral part of the team,

Yet rarely celebrated.

Demonstrating bravery

Whilst going about your work.

Remaining nearly invisible.


I see you,

The junior doctor,

Eyes wide open,

Surveying the situation.

Taking on new responsibilities,

Learning through the pandemic

Or just trying to cope?


I see you,

The registrar

Breaking bad news

Over the telephone.

Dissatisfied with circumstances,

Enduring families’ emotions

As well as your own.


I see you,

The experienced consultant,

Previously infallible,

Now scared of the unknown,

Fearful for the future.

Holding strong for the team.


I see you,

The other patients,

More unwell than I.

Deteriorating.

Is this what I will become?

An entity of lines and tubes.

Hope is necessary

But COVID is cruel.


I see you. 

I.C.U.