Dawn - Upstate New York

Dawn enjoys a stroll with her dog, Tasha. (photo submitted)

Occupation: Retired

What Covid-19 related restrictions are in place where you live? Schools are closed, restaurants and bars are closed. Most people have to shelter in place.

What has been your biggest challenge during this crisis so far? My biggest challenge has been feeling unsafe when going to the grocery store or the drug store or the post office. I feel like everything is contaminated that I bring into my home.

Describe the emotions you/your family are feeling through this crisis? I feel fear because I have scar tissue on my lungs and am afraid to get the virus. My husband has heart issues and I fear for him because he still is going into work. My son is very upset because he had to come home from college and has to finish out his year online, which is really not the way he likes to learn. He likes to ask questions of his professors during class. He is also unable to play in the wind ensemble at school and is unable to do his lab work. He is very frustrated and depression is creeping in.

What are you doing to help cope? Trying to get outstide each day. Working on spots in my home that need to be decluttered. Try to practice self-care by lighting a candle or using some awesome smelling lotions. Making nice dinners. Praying for everyone's safety.

If you have a religious background, how has this crisis affected your faith? : My faith has not changed.

Have you seen any small victories in all of this for you or your family? I feel a small amount of victory by working on some things that I have neglected. There is some victory in the world because the shut down has created cleaner air, less pollution. This crisis has made me feel like maybe the world needs this pause so parents can spend more time with their children, get to know each other better without rushing off to work every day.

To share your story of how you’ve been affected by Covid-19, click here.