Tuesday, March 24, 2020

Love in the time of Covid-19

So, We are in the middle of a global pandemic. There are no way to fully comprehend the amount of pain and grief the world is experiencing right now.
In Canada, we are lucky to have free health care most people are social distancing and settling into a new normal.
In my own home I have been laid off work and Zane is blessed to be able to work from home.
From a chronic illness standpoint I am concerned that if i get a bleed, I will put more stress on an already maxed out health care system. I am also worried about having to go to the hospital in general and being exposed to potential illness there. I am also concerned because my Hemophilia Clinic is currently closed so I am unable to get in contact with anyone there. At the moment I am happy and healthy so I am praying it'll stay that way until this virus passes.
I will say when it comes to a epidemic, people with chronic illness might be the best equipped. For example, dealing with the loss of a job, over the years due to my illness I have been laid off, fired and made to feel so uncomfortable that I just quit. This is not something that is necessarily new for me. I have been where you are, wondering what my next move will be and thankfully have always found something even if it involved mixing paint or having  funeral for a rabbit (long story).
I've also spent a lot of time worrying about my health so if you are in that boat I am right there with you! There have been times in my life where I was sick, where I was near death and times where I thought maybe I just won't make it this time. Worrying is not helpful and it doesn't get you anywhere but sometimes its just impossible not to.
My only recommendation is to grin and bear it. I hate that advice but sometimes we just have to try and be positive until our situation changes.
In the meantime occupy your time with things you enjoy if you can like reading, watching a movie or cooking.
Since this whole thing has started most people have been scared but also so caring and kind. You will notice in the dark times there are always people reaching out asking if you need help or need to talk.
Lean on the people in your life and don't be afraid to ask for help. I learned a long time ago that it takes great strength to ask for help and most people are happy to do it.
In the meantime, if you need me I will be in my kitchen peeling, chopping and freezing bananas as I accidentally ordered 7 bunches of Bananas instead of just 7.
Take care of yourself, your loved ones and hang in there!