With today’s current state, it’s time for some good news. Here are some good things happening in the world now.
A 1,000-year-old cherry tree is blooming in Japan
On April 15 of this year, NPR (National Public Radio) reported, “As winter turned to spring in the town of Miharu, Japan, a small group of workers pounded posts into the ground to lay a grand pathway at the base of a giant cherry tree. It was the same path they’ve laid every year, wide enough to give thousands of tourists a chance to walk up and marvel at the ancient tree, as its cascading branches fill with delicate pink flowers dipping toward the ground. Taking care of the tree is a job the whole community takes part in. The tree is a reminder that nature is strong. Nature can get through anything,”
Your favorite medical dramas are donating supplies to hospitals
Amid the coronavirus outbreak, FX’s “Pose” and NBC’s “Chicago Med,” “Chicago Fire” and “Chicago P.D.,” as well as ABC’s “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Station 19” and “The Good Doctor,” are among the shows donating masks, gowns, and gloves to medical workers and hospitals in need, reports The Chicago Tribune.
Two people have been cured of HIV
Adam Castillejo, also known as “London Patient,” has revealed his identity as the second person to be cured of HIV. In his interview with the New York Times, Castejillo explains how a bone-marrow transplant for his cancer diagnosis transformed his immune system and fought both cancer and HIV, and says that he wants to serve as “an ambassador of hope.” Hopefully, both cases of recovery will be able to help in finding a cure for others.
Greece’s first female president is sworn in
In March, Greece swore in its first female president, former high court judge Katerina Sakellaropoulou. ABC News reported Sakellaropoulou’s statement: “I hope that the election of a woman for the first time to the highest position of the country will improve the position of all women in the country, both in the family and in society. It is time for the women of this country to realize that they can attain their dreams, on their own merits, without facing obstacles simply because they were born women.”
Animal shelters are seeing an increase in foster applications
The New York Times (NYT) reported that people are opting to foster or adopt pets in increasing numbers. The article lists organizations in New York City, Kansas City and Dallas that have seen a drastic increase in requests to help shelter animals.
“A lot of people are facing prolonged periods of time at home and inside,” Eileen Hanavan, director of the foster and engagement program at the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), told NYT. “They want companionship and to not feel alone during this unsettling time, and it is benefiting our animals directly.”
Nursing homes are receiving cards and letters to help cheer up residents
“Residential and retirement facilities across the country are limiting visitations to help combat the coronavirus pandemic, leaving residents increasingly isolated. But people are answering the call to brighten residents’ days with cards,” USA Today reported.
Stuck in isolation with excess free time, many people have been sending letters and cards to residents in nursing homes. In addition to writing, some homes have started “Adopt A Grandparent,” where residents can do face to face calls with their “adopted” children.
