On the front lines of COVID-19, Minnesota's first responders leap in despite the unknown

None of us grasped the enormity of the COVID-19 threat just six months ago. But as the scope and scale grew clearer, we lucky ones locked down, listening for information and longing for a return to normalcy, as we still do. Other Minnesotans had no such luxury. From the early days of the virus, they leapt in — fighting fires, tending to the sick in emergency rooms, driving buses, caring for the children of essential workers — all the while facing deficient personal protective equipment, daily changes in safety recommendations and confusion about how the virus spreads. But ask them why they risked it, and risk it still, and they all say the same thing: They were born to protect others and will continue to provide security to our community long after the virus is gone. We thank them and we wish them continued health.

By Staff, Star Tribune

September 26, 2020 at 1:41PM
(Jamie Hutt/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

None of us grasped the enormity of the COVID-19 threat just six months ago. But as the scope and scale grew clearer, we lucky ones locked down, listening for information and longing for a return to normalcy, as we still do. Other Minnesotans had no such luxury. From the early days of the virus, they leapt in — fighting fires, tending to the sick in emergency rooms, driving buses, caring for the children of essential workers — all the while facing deficient personal protective equipment, daily changes in safety recommendations and confusion about how the virus spreads. But ask them why they risked it, and risk it still, and they all say the same thing: They were born to protect others and will continue to provide security to our community long after the virus is gone. We thank them and we wish them continued health.

about the writer

about the writer

Staff, Star Tribune

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