Behind the Mask

Health care workers across the globe have rallied to meet the needs of the communities they serve. Each one wearing a mask to protect who they care for during this crisis. At the same time, the mask covers their face - their expression hidden from others. Who are the people behind the mask?

Behind The Mask tells the stories of health care workers at St. Joseph’s from all roles and disciplines. It captures their feelings, functions, sacrifices, triumphs and experiences during COVID-19.

Take a glimpse into the vast and varied lives of the people who care for you in our community - and how they are coping with one of the greatest health crises of our time.

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Reminded of her importance

Registered nurse Beverley Barrie was all set to change careers. After eight years with St. Joseph’s Occupational Health and Safety Services, she was going to become a pastry chef. And then COVID-19 hit. “All of a sudden I began working four to six days a week, answering hotline calls, swabbing...

Controlling our collective destiny

As an Infection Control Practitioner at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Lorna fully believes that when it comes to the coronavirus, we are each responsible for controlling our collective destiny. Everyone must play a role by performing good hygiene, wearing a mask and practicing physical distancing – the...

Strength in challenge

Carl Campbell cares a great deal for the physiological health of the staff and physicians at St. Joseph’s. As a member of St Joseph's Psychological Health and Safety Working Group since its inception three years ago, Carl has been involved in providing resources for employees who need physiological...

A dose of motivation

We’ve all needed an extra dose of motivation in recent months. For Daniel, a physiotherapist in St. Joseph’s Mental Health Care Program, it’s been helping patients achieve their physical health goals that has boosted his spirits. “Watching one of my patients dance down the hall with a smile on his...

The power of a smile

Lisa wants residents to see her smile again. As a recreational therapist at Mount Hope Centre for Long Term Care, she works with vulnerable people, many of whom have dementia. Sometimes a smile is all it takes to put those in her care at ease and make them feel comfortable. “Wearing a mask means...

We must remain vigilant

As citywide Chair/Chief of Infectious Diseases, Dr. Michael Silverman has played an instrumental role in London’s response to the pandemic. He has provided critical clarity in a world filled with noise about the novel coronavirus, advising hospital administrators on the use of personal protective...

Profound impacts

For a long time, Jessica was unable to see her family. “It was months. I missed being able to visit, I missed hugs, and I always worry about their safety.” As a Spiritual Care Practitioner, Jessica feels challenged by the pandemic in several ways. “Having to wear a mask has made me more appreciative...

We cannot go back

Karen Perkin has acted as St. Joseph’s COVID-19 Incident Manager during the pandemic. Her strong leadership is pulling the organization through this historical time. Incredibly proud of the response from St. Joseph’s Karen knows we are fighting a battle hits close to home. “For me COVID-19 has a...

We are bound to one another

With the onset of COVID-19, Amanda became responsible for communicating to over 4000 staff and physicians. “It was completely overwhelming at first,” she says. “We were in crisis-mode and bombarded with information that was vital for our health care workers.” At St. Joseph’s the response to the...