Prince Charles has told how he has been “humbled by the dedication shown by so many” in the fight against Covid-19.
As tomorrow marks the first anniversary of the first UK lockdown, the Prince of Wales joined a National Day of Reflection with the aim of coming together to commemorate the loss of hundreds of thousands of people who have lost their lives.
In his role as Patron of Marie Curie, Charles, said: “We have all been inspired by the resourcefulness we have witnessed, humbled by the dedication shown by so many, and moved, beyond words, by the sacrifices we have seen.
“Whatever our faith or philosophy may be, let us take a moment together to remember those who have been lost, to give thanks for their lives, and to acknowledge the inexpressible pain of parting.
“In their memory, let us resolve to work for a future inspired by our highest values, that have been displayed so clearly by the people of this country through this most challenging of times.”
Marie Curie estimates that over six million people have been bereaved since the pandemic began, and many have been unable to say goodbye to loved ones or even had the opportunity to grieve properly. The day will provide the nation with an opportunity to take a ‘“minute to reflect and a moment to connect”.
At midday, a minute’s silence will be held to reflect on those who have died during the pandemic, and to take a moment to show support to someone who is grieving.
At 8pm, buildings and landmarks across the UK, will be lit-up yellow for the millions who are grieving and to shine as a beacon of hope and support.
Marie Curie is encouraging people to get involved by shining their light - standing on their doorsteps with a candle or small light.
Chief Executive of Marie Curie, Matthew Reed said: “Communities across the UK have come together to support one another during these most challenging of times, and it is that sense of community that will help many now find healing in the future as well.”
The National Day of Reflection will also be marked by The Royal College of Nursing, remembering friends and colleagues, as well as celebrating businesses that donated meals, supermarkets offering priority slots and transport that was free or discounted.
Dame Donna Kinnair, RCN general secretary, said: “In a time of loss and fear, they helped us to keep digging deeper.
"We will take a day to remember and reflect - as much about the future we want as the year we’ve had.”
CEPI has launched a $3.5 billion plan to produce a library of vaccines capable of dealing with multiple diseases in order to prevent Disease X.
The money would also be used to tackle specific disease such as Lassa Fever, MERS, Nipah and Ebola.
