It was the middle of March. I was really excited and looking forward to all of my spring events; a birthday party and a day trip with my sister, seeing my nephew and his special girl, my church’s annual fundraiser in May, and the Silver Dollar Fair and the Chico Fairgrounds.
I was at work when my Do-It Leisure leader left me a message. She said, “Dinner and shopping, you in?” On my break I texted her back “fine”. She responded, “I will pick you up at your house at 5pm.” A second phone call was made though- she phoned me to say no more going out with the group.
My life would be forever changed. The shelter in place order came over the T.V. I didn’t know at the time how my life would become so different. I was okay at first, then when I couldn’t go to church or work I became very lonely and depressed. That was about two months ago. I have people hired to come help me.
Flash Back to March: my Do-It Leisure leader said this won’t last too long. We will go out and celebrate your birthday in March or April. But that didn’t happen. I was with my caregiver on my birthday, but no party. The church people sent me about 20 cards and I received many phone calls. For a birthday dinner, I had a free curb side dinner from Denny’s. On the way home my caregiver bought me a milk shake at Wendy’s.
The above stories tell how this stay at home lifestyle has totally changed many plans I had for the spring. Many other once a year events have been canceled such as my church fundraiser and the Silver Dollar Fair.
I have been following the Government and state guidelines. I live in a big house. My family hired caregivers to take me to the store, out to dinner and other daily tasks.
I’m not able to go to work at my jobs or attend events in person. I miss all my co-workers and my church crowd. Some events I can do on the computer. I feel connected to people though different online programs. I do church, bible studies, and one of my jobs online. I talk to my family on the phone every day. I phone people for one of my jobs. I watch movies on Netflix. I go for a walk in the park. I wear a mask when at the store.
I want people to be better get well and stay safe. According to the local and nightly news there is slow and steady recovery reports happening all over California. We are in stage two of reopening our state. I want stage three to come soon. While I am waiting, I will continue to be positive and work with my caregivers.
