As an occupational physician in the Jessa Hospital in Hasselt, Dr Nele Van Loon sees first-hand how caretakers are mentally struggling during this coronavirus crisis. She decided to support them and created a virtual choir, which brings comfort and hope to everyone who works in hospitals or care institutions.

“The care staff have a hard time physically, but especially mentally,” says Dr Nele Van Loon. “They’re often called ‘heroes’, but perhaps it’s more appropriate just to characterise them as professionals who give 100%. Many of them had no choice, but nevertheless, had to work in difficult circumstances.”

As a member of the choral group New Vocal Pop Group (NVPG), Nele took action to encourage healthcare staff. “Music has a therapeutic effect. That’s why we launched an appeal via social media with our choir, led by Rudi Bollen. We recruited voices that wanted to practise vocal parts from home and sing ‘under quarantine’. So we brought together a virtual choir of no less than 40 voices.”

A total of two songs were recorded: the comforting ‘The Hymn of Acxiom’ by Vienna Teng and the hopeful ‘Heroes’ by David Bowie. Rudi Bollen put all the voices together. The video premiered at the Jessa Hospital in Limburg, where Nele is working as an occupational physician. The film is also offered to other care institutions via the Mensura channels.

A wonderful initiative by Nele, of which we are truly proud!