As the world marks the COVID-19 Day of Reflection on 9 March 2025, the Yellow Heart to Remember Campaign stands out as a poignant symbol of remembrance and hope. This initiative, co-founded by Clinical Entrepreneur Hannah Gompertz and her grandfather David, emerged from a deeply personal loss.

On Easter Sunday 2020, Hannah’s grandmother, Sheila, succumbed to COVID-19, leaving a void in their family. The idea for the Yellow Heart Campaign was inspired by David’s observation that the daily government briefings were reducing the deceased to mere statistics. He recalled the tradition of tying yellow ribbons during the war to signify missing loved ones and suggested a similar gesture. With ribbons unavailable during the lockdown, Hannah drew a yellow heart and placed it in her window. This simple act resonated with many, and the yellow heart quickly became a national symbol of remembrance.

Hannah shared, “Yellow hearts symbolise positive remembrance for those who were lost during the pandemic.” The campaign has since grown, with thousands of yellow hearts appearing in windows across the UK, each representing a life lost and a family grieving.

On this COVID-19 Day of Reflection, the Yellow Heart Campaign continues to offer solace and a sense of community to those who have lost loved ones. It reminds us that behind every statistic is a person who was cherished and is deeply missed.

The campaign’s impact is evident as communities come together to honour the memories of those who passed away during the pandemic. Whether through wearing yellow heart badges or participating in reflection events, the Yellow Heart Campaign ensures that the legacy of those lost to COVID-19 is remembered with love and respect.