Fremd says thank you to health care workers

Members of William Fremd High School's sophomore class executive board wanted to say thank you to area health care workers battling the COVID-19 pandemic.

To do this, they collected more than 100 cards from students, which were then delivered to Amita Health St. Alexius Hospital in Hoffman Estates.

Fremd High School Science Department Chairman Karl Craddock said the idea came out of a brainstorming session among the 54-member board.

"They wanted to help raise the spirits of the students and outside community during this difficult time," he said. "While they came up with many great ideas, the one that they kept coming back to was thank-you notes for the front-line health care workers that are battling the COVID-19 crisis."

He said the student who led the planning and organization of the card drive was sophomore Manaswita Kodali. She said her inspiration came from her own family.

"I was inspired by the health care workers' resilience and sacrifice during this pandemic," she said. "My uncle is an MD doctor on pulmonary medicine in India, and he is also risking his life and my grandparent's lives for the sole purpose of serving his community. Every day is full of fear for my entire family."

As part of her preparation for the drive, Kodali designed the cards and coordinated a plan for delivery to St. Alexius. Craddock said that once the drive was started, students from a variety of groups pitched in to help.

"We had students from clubs like the Red Cross Club and Student Council, along with teachers and support staff contribute," Craddock said.

In only two days, the group had created more than 100 cards, which were then delivered to St. Alexius, where they were met with appreciation from the medical staff.

Kodali said that she hoped this would not only uplift the front-line medical providers but teach her fellow students.

"I want my fellow students to know that even the smallest form of appreciation toward the health care workers can make a big difference in their hearts," she said.

Craddock added that he hopes this sends a message of both unity and appreciation.

"We hope that it sends the message that we are all in this together, and that during this holiday season, it is important to take the necessary precautions to keep everyone safe," he said.

"In addition, take time to give thanks for our community front line workers who are working around the clock to keep us safe."