IT IS undeniable that the coronavirus crisis has brought everyone to their knees. As the outbreak spreads all over the world, many healthcare workers suffer from shortages of personal protective equipment (PPE) including face shields and especially face masks.
Amid concerns of rising tensions in frustrating circumstances, however, acts of kindness and solidarity are also surfacing. Many have worked in solidarity to donate these protective items to keep the front liners and patients safe.
But one Davaoeno fashion designer went above and beyond the fight against coronavirus by donating isolated transport chambers to Southern Philippines Medical Center and South Cotabato Evangelista Hospital — a gesture he hopes will help inspire others to do the same.
John Belandres, creative director and owner of Atelier 115, also a registered nurse and one of the finest names in Mindanao Fashion had no hesitations about jumping into action when a friend and client architect Tin Canusa asked him to donate the chambers. It was also Tin who initiated moves to facilitate where John could get the materials from hardware stores while mostly are closed because of the temporary community quarantine.
The isolated transport chambers are used to transport infected patients or patients suspected of biological contaminations such as Covid-19, severe acute respiratory syndrome, etc. The chambers protect the patient or the external environment from any cross- contamination that could occur during any transport. It can safely take care of the patient without any risk of contamination of the premises or other patients.
“I’m inspired by the way that people are stepping up to help each other. Healthcare workers and government responders are risking their own lives to save ours; we have a civic duty to try and help these front liners any way possible,” he said.
It was that attitude that drove John to develop a fundraiser. He ultimately and privately taps some friends and clients to join his cause and raised enough money to purchase and donate the transport chambers.
This is not the first time that he is been doing civic works, along with some friends who wanted to remain anonymous. Not all donations are trumpeted on Facebook or Twitter and I am glad that John is one of the few people who may feel good just knowing they helped someone even if no one else knows.
“Giving isn’t a business transaction. It’s a human connection. To inspire, to give, to care, you need to make a meaningful connection by showing them why they matter and how they can make a difference”, he added.
John Belandres says he doesn’t plan on stopping her fundraising efforts when the need arises. His campaign is currently still open and receiving funds, which he hopes to use for more PPE’s and chambers that can eventually be donated to “whoever needs it.”
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