It’s been 11 days since I last went to work, but it’s been two weeks since folks in my state of Michigan have been able to really “go out.” Bars and restaurants have been closed to everything except carryout/delivery, most churches have been shuttered, “non-essential businesses” are closed…including but not limited to movie theaters, salons, sports arenas, gyms and countless others.
I saw a local playground while out walking Saturday surrounded with yellow caution tape. I also heard that public basketball hoops were being removed to discourage congregating. State parks have been shut down. People can still visit them, but all of the restrooms -including outhouses – have been closed. Visitors must carry out their own trash, and picnic shelters are also being closed. I’m pretty sure a cabin trip we booked in mid May at a county park near Grand Rapids will have to be canceled. I’m waiting for the parks commission to make that call so we can hopefully get all of our money back.
Grocery stores remain open, and hospitals have become “war zones” from what friends in my social media circles are saying. One of them is a scientist working at Henry Ford Hospital whom is helping to administer COVID-19 tests. My friend Brad’s sister in law is a nurse’s aide – and has been virtually thrust into “the front lines.” Another friend has a young son battling cancer in a local hospital. Not good timing, that’s for sure! I feel very deeply for all of those folks working in this madness right now – not just health care workers but also grocery store workers, first responders, paramedics, etc.
I can’t even say how grateful I am to not be directly involved in all of this. I think it’s only going to get worse before it gets better. These medical professionals are ALL heroes right now…despite having to work in such trying, desperate, hopeless conditions. They need more protective gear – and we need a cure. A treatment at the very least.
My husband and I have really only ventured outside for walks or supply runs. I’m giving myself a rest day from walks today (unless that pesky wind dies down).
The nightly board games have been a great diversion…more zombie killing is planned for tonight!