Like a lot of people, this feels like a movie. It doesn’t seem real. But I must admit upon the outbreak of COVID-19 in the US, I became terrified at the thought of a pandemic. If you follow my blog, you know I have had my share of medical problems. I was and I still am afraid that I’m high risk being immunosuppressed due to lung issues, having Fibromyalgia, chronic sinusitis, asthma, diabetes, and etc. But my biggest fear is not for myself, but for my mom and brother.
My mother is 75 years young. She is hypertensive, diabetic, has heart disease and other medical issues that make her extremely high risk. Yet still, she is our beacon of light. She was scheduled for knee surgery but my family discussed it and deemed it best to cancel all appointments for now until the threat passes. She is in a lot of pain but agrees that she does not want to risk going out.
My brother is 49. He has chronic hypertension, diabetes, end-stage renal failure, congestive heart failure, and has had six strokes and two heart attacks within the last seven years. His job here on Earth is just not done. He is a left below the knee amputee as well, has an esophageal tear, chronic acid reflux, and a history of MRSA. A contamination of COVID-19 would prove fatal. His body is tired, he is tired, but he has a strong will to live and unbelievable faith. He goes out to dialysis three times a week for three to four hours each day. He is at risk for getting the virus himself and bringing it home. But they take precautions and God is good!
As if those issues aren’t enough to have you dizzy, my seven-year-old twin niece and nephew came to spend spring break with me. Zy spiked a fever and was diagnosed by phone with the flu. Her brother too. Then my other niece living with me, whose expecting, began having worse flu-like symptoms. She was diagnosed by phone with the flu but doesn’t seem to be getting better like the twins. I also have another niece who’s been in the hospital for three months with a “mysterious” illness that doctors couldn’t and still can’t figure out or contain. She is in her early twenties and is in organ failure.
Some people are saying that our faith is being tested. If so, I hope the test is over soon.
As a family, we remain steadfast in knowing that God is real and in control. We know that the best thing we can do right now is follow doctor’s orders. We have been self-quarantining since March 16th and practicing social distancing. But more than that, we remain faithful that there is a higher power at work here that will get us all through this.
Everyone around us has been so kind, encouraging, and giving. We are a family of nine right now, twelve counting the doggies. Because we were blessed during this time, I can be a blessing to someone else and pay it forward. See how God works? Why am I sharing this? Because in these scary and uncertain times, people can become crazy, selfish, and step out of character in the name of self-preservation.
But there are more people who have huge hearts, lend a helping hand, pray for one another, and really look out for others. Like with any situation, we must look for the good in everything to get through this. Share the positive stories along with updates and facts. Be the light shining through the darkness.
We have to remember to pray for our first responders, doctors, nurses, phlebotomist, lab techs, surgeons, patient care assistants, our neighbors, the elderly, and pets. This is a chance to bring families back together and come together as a nation. Hopefully, we all will learn to just stop for a minute and realize that with some humanity, decency, and love, together, we can get through anything.
Stay safe and healthy,
Val
Powerful story my friend.
Just my opinion here… The latest buzz phrase “Social distancing” imparts an ugly message. Rather we should be talking about “physical distancing”. Nevertheless, your post is touching, to say the least. As is your recognition of all those who are working to help and support us. Indeed, those with huge hearts are real heroes.
Thank you, Roger!!
As a nurse unable to practice due to disability, it’s so hard to see all those in the front line and not be with them helping. So I decided to spread information instead and try to be a positive light in this darkness. They really are the hero’s along with truck drivers, manufactures, anyone risking their lives so we can continue to function through this.
Valerie, thank you for your poignant article. Your family is incredibly strong. Families need to be together even if it is not in person than electronically. I tend to follow what my faith is telling us which this is G-d’s way of reminding us that he is in charge of the world. What we can all do to help is what we must do. I wish you and your family safely, long life and of course health.
Thank you Joel!
I wish the same for you all. Yes, indeed, God is in control!! Life is so precious♥️
Thank you, Valerie, for your response to my comment. Take care and stay well.