When I think about the professions I truly admire, my mind doesn’t go to the usual high-status roles that society often praises — the lawyers, the bankers, or the big-name executives.
My admiration lies with the people whose work often goes unnoticed, undervalued, and underpaid, yet is vital to the very fabric of our communities.
The Forgotten Heroes of the Pandemic
During the pandemic and lockdown, we all saw who the real heroes were.
It wasn’t those in corner offices or behind polished desks.
It was the minimum wage carers — the ones turning up day after day, risking their health to protect and care for others.
They were holding the hands of the dying when families couldn’t be there.
They were offering comfort, compassion, and dignity in a time when fear was everywhere.
Many built strong emotional bonds with those they cared for, only to lose them to Covid. The emotional toll of that work is something I think society still hasn’t fully acknowledged.
And yet, despite the enormous responsibility and personal risk, carers are still not paid anywhere near what they deserve. It baffles me. We clapped for them then, but too many people have moved on and forgotten. I haven’t — and I never will.
Healthcare Workers Deserve Medals
This admiration extends across all areas of healthcare.
Nurses, doctors, healthcare assistants, paramedics, cleaners in hospitals, porters — every single one of them played a role in keeping people alive and providing comfort when it mattered most.
They faced exhaustion, fear, and heartache but kept showing up.
Every single one of them deserves a medal.
My Personal Heroes: Neonatal and In Utero Medicine Teams
For me, there’s a very personal reason why I will always hold neonatal teams and in utero medicine teams in the highest regard.
If it weren’t for their skill, dedication, and medical expertise, my daughter would not be here today.
They work in one of the most high-pressure environments imaginable. Every decision can mean the difference between life and death for a baby who hasn’t even had the chance to take their first breath, or one who is fighting for survival in those early days. They have to combine razor-sharp medical knowledge with deep compassion for the families they support.
When your child’s life is in someone else’s hands, you realise how extraordinary these professionals truly are.
Never Forget
These professions — carers, healthcare workers, and specialist medical teams — are the backbone of our society. They don’t just save lives; they bring hope, dignity, and humanity into the darkest moments.
My respect for them is unshakeable, and my gratitude is lifelong.
If you know someone who works in any of these roles, take a moment today to say thank you. Because while the headlines have moved on, their work and sacrifices should never be forgotten.
References:
Carers UK. (2021). The State of Caring Report 2021. Retrieved from: https://www.carersuk.org Bliss. (2023). Neonatal care in the UK. Retrieved from: https://www.bliss.org.uk NHS. (2024). Specialist in utero services. Retrieved from: https://www.england.nhs.uk
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What profession do you admire most and why?
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