Shadows and Light: A Physician’s Lens on COVID-19

In his book Shadows and Light: A Physician’s Lens on COVID-19, Canadian emergency physician Heather Patterson presents a photographic documentation of the pandemic’s impact on frontline workers in Alberta. Originally conceived as a pre-pandemic project to address Patterson’s feelings of burnout in emergency care, the onset of COVID-19 quickly expanded its scope. After receiving ethical approval from Alberta Health Services in September 2020, Patterson began documenting the virus’s effects across five hospitals in Calgary. The title reflects her focus on the duality of hope and despair, with the black-and-white photographs emphasizing the interplay of light and the emotional moods it evokes.

Patterson’s perspective as an emergency physician is evident in the photographs, which highlight the often-overlooked role of auxiliary workers—such as aides and volunteers—who provide comfort to COVID patients, in contrast to the emotional detachment required of doctors to function efficiently. Through her prose and captions, Patterson shares her inner turmoil and struggle with burnout, offering an empathetic portrayal that emphasizes the contributions of all healthcare workers, not just doctors. Ultimately, the book presents a narrative of hope, drawn from the inspiring resilience of Canada’s frontline workers, and the rediscovery of passion through meaningful human connection.