My Covid Journal

So many people have been reaching out about my Covid case. I want to share real-time information about my symptoms through my platform, but the truth is, I think there is more to talk about than how I’ve been feeling.

I’m finally out of quarantine and I am beyond happy to hug and kiss my children and hubby - breathe fresh air and get back to life. But, alas, what does getting back to life mean in this pandemic climate we’re living in. Now more than ever, I am going to use this precious platform to reach a broader community of people and seize this opportunity to help diffuse a quick PSA (that’s public service announcement for those who aren’t in-the-know).

I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again - I have zero tolerance for bullies, shamers, judges, and nay-sayers. Although I am extremely lucky to have caught a mild strain of Covid-19, there are way too many people out there getting sick - way sicker than I did. I had it so easy and I’m grateful, but that hasn’t made me think any differently about how I will proceed from here on out.

Since March, we were all told to wash our hands, sanitizing as often as possible if you have to go out and do groceries and so on. We were instructed to wear masks and of course, stay at least 6-feet apart, because we learned quite quickly how contagious this virus is.

I know some people think that following the rules means you’re not thinking for yourself and you’re just doing what “they” tell us to do. Yes. That’s exactly it. Don’t think for yourself and make up your own rules - follow public healthcare regulations - they are there for us to be guided back into safety and health. Keep social distance, do not gather, and stay at least 6-feet apart. I cannot stress this enough!

The other thing is let’s promise to be transparent. What does that mean? If you’ve been around someone who tested positive, or you think you might have been in contact with someone who has the virus, tell the people who might be directly impacted. That is what tracing is all about. If we can trace it, we can contain it.

Finally, this virus does not discriminate. I can’t stress that enough - please stop shaming and judging anyone who has tested positive. Life is hard enough, this virus is scary and the last thing we need is to feel embarrassed to come forward. We need to make space for people to feel safe enough to let everyone know if they have the virus. We aren’t letting that happen if we judge everyone’s actions - constantly pointing out what they’ve done wrong or blaming them for their choices.

I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to put Covid-19 and all of 2020 behind me. The only we are going to be able to do that is if we band together.

If you want more info or think you might have symptoms, check this link. Call and find out if you should be tested and limit the spread. Listen, I’m no spokesperson for Covid, I’m just a person who got it. But, nothing like being hit with a virus that is taking over our global community to put things in perspective. So here I am doing my part to better serve our local community. Who’s with me!?

Photography by Patricia Brochu