More than 300,000 shining a light to fight virus
A woman from Cannock has attracted almost 300,000 people to an online group which is holding an event to remember those who have died of coronavirus.
Lisa Bailey, aged 28, created the Facebook group, Shine a Light, to fight coronavirus, last week.
In less than 24 hours, the page had a following of more than 1,500 people and now has approximately 298,000, with members stretching as far as USA, to New Zealand, Australia, Italy and Canada.
Lisa said: "I created the page because I wanted to remember the lives lost and those suffering from the terrible virus.
"I started it on Thursday, March 26, just to bring attention key workers. The main aim was to unite people and prove we can all be kind.
"I feel so proud, so overwhelmed. I still sit and look at the group numbers and pinch myself. I’m hoping this group will stay with me afterwards and I will continue to support and encourage all posts."
Members of the page share stories, some which are uplifting and others that are emotional and deeply personal.
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Lisa added: "A father and daughter paramedic photo together really touched my heart.
"There has been a few losses which have brought me to tears and people thanking me for creating the page it’s really helped at a time it's needed."
As well as the page itself, Lisa has organised a commemoration event asking people to light up the sky, which is hoped to go nationwide, if not global.
She said: "I also wanted to create an event that at the same time as remembering those people we can celebrate the absolutely fantastic work all the keyworkers are doing for us on the frontline, from the NHS, to shop assistants, warehouse workers and delivery drivers to name a few.
"It will be held on Friday, April 3, at 8.30pm UK time. Everyone goes into their back gardens, or balconies if living in a flat, then we shine a light such as a torch or candle towards the sky.
"DJ Legzyy will also be hosting a live stream on my group, playing five popular songs chosen by members and we will remember those lost and fighting, and celebrate all keyworkers and those going above and beyond daily for us across the world."
Lisa advises participants to stay safe, recognise social distancing rules and said do not use lasers, industrial torches or fire lanterns.