Coronavirus has changed everything in a matter of days. We live in Eastern Pennsylvania exactly where most of the Coronavirus patients are in Pennsylvania. In a 5 day period, life went from normal to basic upheaval. I’m a relatively laid back person, but all these changes can drive anyone crazy. Cerebral palsy on top of it all equals “buckle up and take it one day at a time.”
The Coronavirus doesn’t scare me as much as it does others. I read a lot about it and, if for some reason we get it, I have faith we will be okay. But I understand why everything is shutting down, but that makes me uneasy. I like to be able to go places etc and going stir crazy doesn’t sound fun. I also wish people would stop panic buying so we all have what we need. This isn’t the time to be greedy or hoard.
I work as a substitute teacher, and I decided to work a half day on Thursday afternoon. Little did I know how crazy the day would end. Everything went about typical for subbing for a sixth grade class until the principal announced that school would be closed on Friday and Monday. (Now that has changed for the whole state for every school until March 30, hopefully!). The class went wild with excitement and listening to me was the last thing on their mind. We survived though and everyone made it home safely.
Then, as Friday came, I learned that people are completely panicking. I went on my normal shopping trip to a local store with my attendant. No milk, no toilet paper, no bread. Luckily, I have those things, but many people do not. I just shook my head when I saw people’s carts like they’ll never see a grocery store again.
Shortly after coming home, I then learned all schools in Pennsylvania closed for two weeks. Then came all of the emails about all my kids activities and events being cancelled. Events like Boy Scout camping, Confirmation retreats, prep classes, plays and soccer games. My hockey game canceled. YMCA closed. Mass not an obligation. Field trips in question.
Being a substitute teacher and having schools close, equals no pay. Luckily, we do have savings and Jeff is still working but it’s a change we need to be careful. On the bright side, my kids will have me home so I can teach and help them.
When my kids came home yesterday, I was once again inspired how resilient they are to change. Laura went to work cleaning her room for her work station. Jason logged into his education program online and played brain games. Unfortunately, I don’t fully think Jason understands the concept of how long he will be out of school. I’m pretty sure in a few days he will be wanting to go back. He will definitely miss his friends.
As far as my care, I know both of my attendants are diligent in keeping clean and safe. Jeff is too. We are all taking it one day at a time and praying that this virus will not spread to others.
