Didn't take long for Johnny to show that he's AARs Poodle, another one.
Every time EK managers pretend something, you can be sure the truth's the other way around.
By pressing 2 you actually HELP your collegues!
EK only reacts with statistics and numbers. Too many sick -> problem. First reaction -> denial. Second reaction -> threats. But third reaction finally -> action.
Numbers must get desperate and even airframes grounded, only then they will increase the pilots numbers and reduce the hours.
Don't feel guilty, you're doing the right thing. For safety, for your buddies, for your own health and finally even for the company.
JA, you should be ashamed, but then again, you took the job very much knowing, knowing....