For many Canadians, our public health officers have been a comforting voice of reason during these turbulent times of the COVID-19 crisis.
In British Columbia, six days a week we have been tuning in to watch Dr. Bonnie Henry, Chief Medical Officer of British Columbia, offer updates on the number of cases in the province, as well as new measures and orders put in place to keep the population safe.
Nationally, we have Dr. Theresa Tam, Chief Public Health Officer of Canada, reminding us to heed the warnings that COVID-19 is a serious health threat.
And in neighbouring Alberta, residents are turning to Dr. Deena Hinshaw, Chief Medical Officer of Alberta, to keep them apprised of the latest where they live.
To celebrate these women who are keeping us informed, analyzing data, connecting with political leaders, and often helping us remain calm (and at home), a Calgary-based effort is helping us honour our Public Health Heroines while helping many in need in our communities.
The Public Health Heroines project brought together fashion brands SophieGrace and Madame Premier with artist Mandy Stobo to create and launch a set of three t-shirts.
Each t-shirt depicts one of the country's three female public health officers: Henry, Hinshaw, and Tam.
Dr. Henry, Dr. Tam, and Dr. Hinshaw t-shirts from SophiaGrace/Madame Premier. Art by Mandy Stobo100% of net proceeds from sales of the limited-edition collection will be donated locally to support food security. Here in B.C., sales of the Henry t-shirt will support the Greater Vancouver Food Bank.
Dr. Henry brings B.C. years of expertise in public health and epidemiology. She has worked with the WHO helping eradicate polio in Pakistan and served to with the WHO to help control the Ebola outbreak in Uganda.
The Hinshaw shirt will benefit Calgary's Fresh Routes, and Tam's Toronto's Second Harvest.
“Both of our brands are focused on honouring women and celebrating their success. Seeing these incredible women of science help guide and calm us through these unprecedented times inspired us to do something to help,” said Emma May, Founder, Sophie Grace.
Each t-shirt is made from 100% Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton and retails for $45 plus taxes and shipping. You can purchase from both the SophieGrace site and the Madame Premier site.
You can show off your appreciation for these Public Health Heroines by wearing your new tee, but remember to listen to their orders and do so from the safety of your own home over FaceTime calls or Instagram posts. And if you absolutely must venture outside, admirers of your t-shirt need to stay at least six feet away. Remember, it's what these awesome doctors want!
