CHEST Guidelines-Making-Anger-Count

Making-Anger-Count_chest

Pdf Summary

Dr. Gabriel T. Bosslet shares his transformative journey through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and his wife's breast cancer diagnosis. In early 2020, as the pandemic began, his wife Sarah was undergoing chemotherapy, preventing him from working in the ICU due to the risk of infecting her. With usual coping mechanisms like working in the ICU unavailable, Bosslet turned to social media for solace and community. He created the "Hoosier COVID Update" Facebook page to provide reliable pandemic information, helping thousands stay informed and connected.<br /><br />As the pandemic evolved, Bosslet was disheartened by the low vaccination rates in Indiana and the legislative actions undermining public health measures, which fueled his anger. Particularly, he was appalled by a proposed state bill that sought to prevent businesses from mandating COVID-19 vaccinations for employees, including healthcare workers. <br /><br />Determined to make a difference, he testified against this bill and felt compelled to engage more publicly in advocating for health reforms. Recognizing a gap in organized advocacy for public health in Indiana, Bosslet led the creation of the Good Trouble Coalition, rallying healthcare professionals to unify and advocate for public health and health equity. Their first initiative was a campaign opposing anti-abortion legislation, demonstrating their commitment to health justice.<br /><br />The Coalition has grown into a registered nonprofit, actively advocating for health policies at the Indiana Statehouse. Bosslet's experience underscores his belief in the necessity for physicians to engage in political advocacy to advance public health agendas, even when it challenges traditional norms within the medical field. This narrative illustrates a personal and professional evolution driven by crisis, demonstrating how frustration and adversity can lead to activism and meaningful change.

Keywords

COVID-19 pandemic

breast cancer

Gabriel T. Bosslet

Hoosier COVID Update

vaccination rates

public health advocacy

Good Trouble Coalition

health equity

Indiana Statehouse

political activism