Estimated Read Time: 2 minutes 30 seconds
What a crazy time we’re in, no? Whether your work has been affected or not, most of us are spending much more time at home.
…and we should be! While those of us in good health may not be particularly concerned with COVID-19, it is important that we all do our part in preventing the spread of this very contagious virus.
Regardless of your current health status or your opinion on social distancing, I urge you to be considerate of those in the “at risk” population. This group goes beyond your obvious suspects—many of these individuals are young and their illnesses invisible. Undoubtedly, this demographic includes some of your loved ones.
Inconvenient as social distancing guidelines may be, I immediately took them to heart after considering:
- My stepfather, Ted, who just completed what we hope to be his final round of chemotherapy!
- My mom, Brenda, who has suffered from asthma since childhood.
- My sister, Larissa, who is an autoimmune warrior. (Read her story here.)
- My dad, Peter, a veteran’s hospital nurse who works long graveyard shifts. (I can’t WAIT for him to retire!)
- My stepmother, Enid, who has an unresolved heart condition.
- My grandpa, Gilbert, who lives in a skilled nursing facility.
- Those who habitually smoke any substance, including cigarettes and/or cannabis.
- Every person I know over the age of 60, including my current and past clients, previous employer and next-door neighbor.
Similarly, the Washington Post created simulations of four different scenarios that are quite interesting to watch: a free-for-all, an attempted quarantine, moderate social distancing and extensive social distancing. You can watch them here.
There is still so much we can do during this time. I encourage you to practice self-care and continue supporting those in your community.
Mallory Nowak 