Reminded of the pain and suffering of many patients and family members, this illustration was created from a heavy heart. In hospitals around the world, lives were on the line. Dwindling supplies and burned-out staff made a bad situation worse; stress and anxiety filled the air. Covered in gowns, gloves, masks, and face shields, healthcare providers on the front lines did everything we could for these critically ill patients. Although intubation was a last resort, many patients were intubated, on maximum oxygen, and still struggling to breathe. At death’s edge and fully relying on modern medicine to survive, patients were isolated and afraid. As their nurse, I strived to be present, honest, and calm so they might feel less alone.

COVID-19 has been aggressively restricting, restraining, and deadly. “Life or Death” illustrates a dark web of consolidation that wraps around the bronchioles. As it spreads, more healthy lung tissue succumbs to the ever-tightening grip of the virus. An intubation tube sits inside the trachea providing a glimmer of hope. It’s a battle of life and death.