Messages from the public which were hung on the Covid memorial willow tree sculpture at the event. The wooden leaves were made at a workshop held in the gardens on the day and contributed by attendees and the public.

The fabric messages were from people with Long Covid, most of whom were not able to attend the event due to their condition. Members of the Long Covid community collected the messages online, wrote them on fabric and contributed them to the organisers.

Speeches were given by Fran Haddock, a sufferer from Long Covid (via a recording); the Leader of Sheffield City Council Tom Hunt; a representative from SADACCA Sheffield; and a hospital chaplain who worked in hospital during the first waves. They reflected on the traumatic early years of the pandemic, how different communities have been affected and how things have evolved over time.

Message on leaf reads

Any Covid infection can lead to Long Covid. I twas true 5 years ago and is still true now. Who will look after you?

Michael 39