The coronavirus pandemic has been a crisis for the whole world but has also shone a light on the bright side of humanity. As people of all nations have come together against a common enemy, heroes have been defined not by their rank in society but by their actions.

In the UK, Captain Tom Moore, a 100-year-old veteran of World War II, decided to raise some money for the UK's National Health Service by walking 100 laps of his garden. His initial target was to collect $1,250. To date, he has raised more than $30 million. Moore's determination and refusal to stop (he has promised to keep walking as long as people keep donating) won him fans around the world. 

Risking their lives to protect others, nurses and doctors have taken a place in the spotlight. In countries around the world, the public has taken to regularly applauding health service workers and putting up posters and banners in their windows and gardens to say "Thank you."

At its worst, the crisis meant not enough protective equipment was always available and not enough treatment options for every patient, so doctors had to make the toughest of decisions. At the same time, many had to isolate themselves from their own families in the few hours they had between shifts, to protect their loved ones.

"We are not heroes. We are professionals. This is our job," was the typically humble response from Nicola Petrosillo, an infectious diseases specialist in Italy.

Everyone who could, found a part to play in efforts to fight the virus. One Spanish chef Adrian Rojas decided to help the homeless, at particular risk because of their exposure on the streets. He gave away free food from his Madrid restaurant.

The world's most famous musical stars put their talents towards the cause. Stevie Wonder, the Rolling Stones and Billie Eilish all performed from home in a show televised all over the world. Ex-footballer David Beckham and former first lady of the U.S. Michelle Obama also appeared in the One World: Together at Home production. Organizers say it raised in excess of $150 million. 

The pandemic has also seen nations supporting each other. After Europe provided help to China in the early stages of the outbreak, China reciprocated as the virus traveled west. As well as millions of pieces of essential healthcare kit, China shared its knowledge and sent experts to European countries.

Even schoolchildren found ways to make a difference, whether placing teddy bears in their windows or drawing rainbow pictures. Pupils at one Northern Irish school found international fame when they sent a message of solidarity to China – a message that has now been returned after the UK went into its own lockdown.