In many countries of the world, the elderly were the first to be wiped out by COVID-19 as infections spread to elderly homes and geriatric institutions.
But two years into the pandemic, the JC Mac Donald Presbyterian Home for the Aged in San Fernando has celebrated zero COVID infections since the start of the pandemic lockdown in Trinidad and Tobago in March 2020.
The two women responsible for this accomplishment—Joan Awardy and Michelle Gopaulsingh—were both honoured on Thursday for giving yeoman service at the institution.
Speaking at the award ceremony, Moderator for the Presbyterian Church, Rev Joy Abdul-Mohan, commended Awardy and Gopaulsingh.
“Both these ladies worked assiduously during the COVID pandemic for the past two years when all the homes were shut down. They went beyond the call of duty to be of service to residents,” Abdul-Mohan said.
She added: “They went the extra mile to ensure all residents were safe. There were no COVID cases here at this institution. This was because of their exceptional devoted sacrificial service to the home during the pandemic. They went the extra mile to ensure that the residents were well taken care of.”
Awardy, who is secretary of the board of the home, said despite the risks she was never afraid.
“I always say when you are working for the Lord, he protects you,” she said smiling.
Being fully vaccinated also helped.
“For the last two and half years, it was challenging because we risked our lives and family lives by coming here every day, morning and evening to make sure that everyone was OK,” she added.
Awardy disclosed that one of the challenges they faced came from relatives of the residents who wanted visitation.
“The relatives often thought we were preventing them from seeing their loved ones but we made sure and followed the ministry’s directives and we were happy that no one, no staff or resident, got the virus,” she added.
Now that visitations have resumed, Awardy said specific timers are allotted and a designated area is given to visitors. She said the home will continue to follow the highest standards and protocols.