Dr Rachel Clarke - Inside the NHS in a time of pandemic

Hospice UK’s Web Editor Leila Hawkins talks to Dr Rachel Clarke about her new book  Breathtaking – Inside the NHS in a time of pandemic, about her experiences of working on the frontline during the first wave of the Covid-19 outbreak. 

The palliative care doctor describes the unwavering dedication of NHS staff, the pain of being in the second wave of the virus, and her hopes for the future now there is a vaccine. 

“We had no treatments, no vaccines, it was a completely new virus. We didn't know if our PPE was going to protect us. We didn't know if we were going to bring Coronavirus into our houses and infect the people we love. We were frightened, but we wanted to help patients in need. We wanted to be where the need was greatest. 

“At the end of the day, I don't know what life is for if it isn't to try and help each other out when the need is there.”