Scrub Choir releases heartfelt message from frontline workers

‘Gratitude’ is one in a trilogy of songs created from the experience of RMH healthcare workers during the pandemic. The Scrub Choir has been an opportunity for staff at the RMH to take a moment out of their busy day.

Using collaborative song writing skills, ‘Gratitude’ was brought to life after asking RMH staff to anonymously submit their experience working on the frontline during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Victoria.

Head of RMH Music Therapy and Scrub Choir Dr Emma O’Brien OAM received more than 280 submissions from staff reflecting the emotions of healthcare workers over the last 18 months of the pandemic. The overwhelming theme of gratitude inspired a new song.

“Everyone was really honest and spoke openly about their confusion, fears and frustrations when COVID-19 seemed so far away from us,” Dr O’Brien says. “In among the powerful emotions, the most common comments were about what staff felt truly grateful for.”

Filmed on the RMH helipad, the Gratitude release comes with sweeping views of the Melbourne skyline in the song’s music video.

“We hope people find inspiration in this release and that the trilogy of songs help people reflect on what has passed and finds strength and hope for the future,” Dr O’Brien says.

“Scrub Choir helped us emotionally release some of the most difficult days at work on the frontline. It has lifted us up and helped us stay connected to our healthcare colleagues. We hope the community finds inspiration in this release and that it brings hope.”