Portraits of Frontline Workers
My name is Jose Antonio Reyna Jr. I am a recent A.S. degree graduate from Oakton Community College, and I'm transferring to Loyola University-Chicago in pursuit of a Bachelors in Molecular Biology. I’m also a military service member attached to the 182nd Airlift Wing for the Air National Guard. My career and passion for the healthcare system has continued to guide me towards becoming an Emergency Physician for both the civilian and military side. With the continued support from Sandy Salas ( my role model and my mom), as well as many loved ones, the possibilities of my future accomplishments become limitless.
Scholarships and Awards: Honors Scholar Designee, Oakton Honors Public Intellectual Award
Project Description
Working at Glenbrook Hospital has enabled me to be part of an amazing team full of diverse technicians, nurses and doctors. This collage of photos captures the strength of those fighting in the front lines, specifically the strong women who are part of the Emergency Department team at Glenbrook Hospital. Something you might have noticed on each photo, is their smile despite these uncertain times during the pandemic. They say ‘A picture is worth a thousand words’ but it is these smiles behind the mask that have brought hope to thousands of families and patients, who are facing an obstacle never witnessed to this scale in our lifetime. The title of the poem ‘Light at the end of the tunnel’ captures the impenetrable strength they carry each and every day in the emergency department. While some may feel that there is no ending to this battle with the virus, these individuals are full of strength, resilience, hope and courage.
What is most inspiring is the respect shown among each other's differences and the diverse patient population they serve. It is these differences where the deepest connections are made. In addition, these women are united in their passion for caring for others and strengthened by each others’ kindness and good will. I believe that the healthcare profession can inspire communities to defy cultural borders and embrace diversity. Every human naturally craves love and connectedness, and these individuals are always ready to offer those resources from the bottom of their heart.
Artist Biography
Growing up in the south side of Chicago, my whole life has been spent moving to different communities, attending many schools, and experiencing education in another country. While growing up initially adopted by a different family due to domestic violence initiated by my father. The source of my strength, wisdom, and compassion did not come from a man but my mother. Today I aim to be an emergency department physician, so that I can be present at all times for patients who need help at a moment's notice. This ‘need for help’ at a young age has always been given by my one and only role model, my mom.
Course: Honors Learning Community, “Writing, Gender and Knowledge: Intersectional and Transnational Perspectives.” This seminar is comprised of two interlinked and team-taught courses: Introduction to Composition and Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies.
Instructors: Dr. Kristin McCartney, Philosophy and Dr. Marian Staats, English
