Our country, The Philippines, is known for, among other things, its hardworking and talented health workers, most of whom work to care for people in various parts of the world such as the U.S. That is truly something we Filipinos can be proud of. Unfortunately, the hard work that all these health workers (whether Filipino or not) most of the time go unnoticed. It’s about time that we give them the recognition they deserve. That’s exactly what Save the Children is doing now.
Save the Children is the leading, independent organization that creates lasting change for children in need in the United States and 120 countries around the world. According to the organization, the world still lacks approximately 5 million health workers, including front line health workers. Frontline health workers are often community health workers and midwives who provide access to healthcare locally or in the home, although they can also include local pharmacists, nurses and doctors. In the developing world, where well-equipped doctors and hospitals are scarce, frontline health workers are the first and often only point of contact to the health care system for millions of people.
Did you know that it is estimated that a child’s death is prevented every 3 seconds because of the care provided by these health workers? Unfortunately, not all of them have the necessary supplies and support needed in order for them to do their jobs well.
So, it’s really great that there’s an organization who’s finally rallying for support for these health workers. Save the Children has announced the launch of The REAL Awards. It is a first-of-its-kind global awards program designed to develop greater respect and appreciation for health workers and the lifesaving care they provide globally, as well as in the United States. “Every year, awards are given to recognize the accomplishments of celebrities, actors, singers, athletes and entertainers,” said Mary Beth Powers, Campaign Chief for Save the Children’s Newborn and Child Survival Campaign. “Alongside the Oscars and Golden Globes in January, we will begin to honor a group of people who rarely receive recognition or accolades — health workers.”
You can read the inspirational stories of the international REAL Awards honorees and nominate a health worker in the United States at www.theREALawards.com until November 29, 2012. Winners will be announced the week of January 13, 2013 during a time when much of the American public is tuning in to traditional entertainment awards shows such as the Golden Globes and the Academy Awards.
Go nominate a deserving health worker now!
