SAG-AFTRA members are doing their part during the COVID-19 crisis.
Some are reporting the latest news to keep the public informed, some are being responsible citizens by staying home and others, such as Amir Abdalla, an EMT, are on the front lines as first responders.
“I wish I can say I’m playing an EMT on some TV show, but this is as real as it gets,” Abdalla said. “I’m blessed to live another day to help someone in need. Let’s do our part by keeping our distance, washing our hands and staying home if we’re sick. To all my SAG-AFTRA family: Please stay strong! It takes all of us to [get] through this.”
Respiratory therapist and New York Local Board member Ed Heavey echoed those thoughts.
“Just be careful. I wish I were out of work, because that’d mean everyone was healthy. Proud of my fellow health care workers, fearfully braving the pandemic,” he said.
Stunt performer Holly O’Quin also puts herself at risk for the greater good. “I appreciate the recognition for the frontline workers. However, I do not consider myself a hero for being a nurse working on the frontline. I am a nurse, that is my job. As a nurse, I was there to hold the hand of those that needed someone to keep them from being afraid or alone. That is what I do.
“During this pandemic, we had to step up and leave our families, but you left yours in our care. It was not just the nurses or doctors, it was grocery workers, firemen, police, delivery workers, janitors. We all were essential to keep this going. I am honored to have been able to help others. Nursing is not just a job, it is a passion, just like my stunt work. I have been lucky enough in my life to have been able to do both.”
This item originally featured in the SAG-AFTRA magazine spring 2020 issue.
SAG-AFTRA member Amir Abdulla
SAG-AFTRA member Holly O'Quin
SAG-AFTRA member and New York Local Board member Ed Heavey