April 27, 2020
Everyone is aware that it's important to maintain social distancing for everyone's safety, but nurses and doctors don't have the ability to do this. In order to give their patients the best care, they put themselves at risk. Medical student Noah Friedman came up with the idea of the 6ftcloser website, because he wanted to find a way for people to show their appreciation. He came up with this idea after seeing videos of people clapping for health care workers.
The site went live and immediately started gaining popularity. People are able to nominate a friend or family member that is a health care worker to receive comments and videos. Then, people who want to participate and give thanks are assigned with one of the many nominees. Nominees who receive these videos can share them with other health care workers to help spread the positive messages.
6ftcloser is actually the second project set up by Florida medical students. There was also a child care service arranged for employees at the University of Florida. Many people are looking for ways they can help or give back so these initiatives help the community stay involved. Law enforcement has even put together drive-bys where they will flash their lights at UF Health Shands Hospital and North Florida Regional Medical Center to show their appreciation and support for these health care workers.
