Amidst the adversity brought about by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), nurses here came up with colorful hazmat suits to make the situation lighter.

Adrian Pe, nurse and fashion designer, said he and co-nurses have come up with 30 improvised hazmats that come in violet, yellow green, yellow, and red colors since they started on Tuesday, March 24.

With some donations from private individuals, Pe has initiated the production of hazmat suits dedicated to the front-liners taking care of Covid-19 patients.

“I was looking for (a) neutral color of material for the hazmat but since the resources are limited, I bought the violet-colored material. It was followed by the other colors and the colors are one way to push the negative news about Covid-19 away. We are looking at the situation with a silver lining,” he said.

Around 40 nurses assigned in the operating room and delivery room of The Medical City Iloilo took turns in sewing the hazmats, Pe said.

He assured that the PPE uses waterproof fabric that repels pathogens. The design was also approved by the hospital’s safety officer.

“Some of our co-workers that faced discrimination due to COVID-19 patients admitted they opt to also stay in the hospital. We make the PPEs to become productive in our free time,” he added.

Other hospitals in Western Visayas also expressed their intention to produce the same to address the need for PPE.

Pe said he had sent prototypes to Iloilo Mission Hospital, Iloilo Doctors Hospital, Dr. Ricardo Y. Ladrido District Hospital, Western Visayas Sanitarium, and Iloilo Provincial Hospital.

“Until there are needs for PPEs, we will continue on producing,” he said.

Nurse Rhea Joy Navales, who also helps in the production of the hazmat suits, said the COVID-19 situation has awakened the concern to fellow front-liners.

“We will not let the virus destroy our healthcare team. As front-liners, we will not enter the battlefield unequipped. It is essential that we have full gears for donning and doffing,” she said.

The group of nurses is also thankful on how the Ilonggos extended help through donations.

Tailors who wish to volunteer in making the PPE can contact Navales at 0917 779 0061.

Those who want to extend cash can deposit to Pe’s Banco de Oro account 000781182093, or Bank of the Philippine Islands account 9303123867.Gail Momblan/PNA

Photo by Adrian Pe