The Effects of COVID-19 AKA the "RONA"

So by now I am sure that everyone is aware of what the Coronavirus AKA COVID-19 entails and how quickly it is globally spreading. The news and numbers are scary and it is spreading at a rapid rate.

Each of us are affected in some way and not necessarily by becoming "infected" with the virus. Effects include shortage on food, shortage on household essentials, loss of work, home confinement etc.

One way that I didn't expect to be effected is a change of job. As many of you know I'm an athletic trainer and I work at a high school. Due to the closing of the school the athletic trainers who are employed by the hospital have been asked to assist in the hospitals with screening and other tasks. So what does this mean? This means that now I am spending my days asking questions, taking temperatures, and other tasks to ensure the safety of anyone who steps foot in the clinics. This helps prevent the spread of disease while also ensuring that we are not putting anyone else at risk. It has been an interesting experience for sure. There were many people who thanked us for taking the time to check everyone because there were several people who had an autoimmune disease or were elderly and at an increased risk.

Another way is the grocery stores. I'm not sure if you had the chance to go to one or are avoiding them all together but those experiences have been insane. People are literally acting like the world is ending and its everyone for themselves. Fortunately James and I naturally keep a stock of things so as you can see we are fit to survive a quarantine if need be. Not to mention despite CDC recommendations our doors are always open for anyone who needs a meal. Anyone who knows me knows that I cook for a small army and I HATE leftovers so if I can help out someone with a meal I will gladly do so! But the sad part is everyone being greedy and stocking up not considering other people. I've been to 5 different stores lately and the meat aisles are non-existent. People are buying 24 packages of mac and cheese like they will blow through it in 1 day, I mean maybe they are feeding a huge family but 24 packages?? I'm all for being prepared but leave some food for others. Also the whole toilet paper shortage was flat out insane. Like how many times are you going to wipe your butt a day? You literally bought enough TP to build a castle.

On to the next. Texas Governor Greg Abbott passed an order that all restaurant lobbies, bars, theaters, etc shut down for a while. Schools are closed until at least April 3rd, and moved to distance learning. These changes have cost most waitresses, bartenders, and several other workers their jobs. I've talked and seen articles about how restaurant tips are their only source of income. I know there is talks of money being sent out to help and forgivenesses of bills but it still is hurting a lot of people financially. I just hope that there are enough jobs out there that care enough about their employees to protect them in the event of a full out closure.

Last but not least, I am NOT a home body. Despite popular opinion I like to work. I LOVE MY JOB. I wake up every morning ready to see what kind of impact I can make on my student athletes and I am really starting to miss seeing my kiddos every day. During this quarantine time I have not only started this blog, but finished a couple of books, and attempted to stay on top of my homework. I have NO sports to watch and I am starting to lose my mind. But I just wanted to take this time and suggest reaching out to your people make sure they are okay. Mental health is a real thing and some individuals can't handle being confined all day. Check in on someone who know you has a hard time being alone or just someone who you haven't heard from in a while. Take this time to focus on yourself and maybe find a new hobby.

MOST IMPORTANTLY WASH YOUR HANDS AND AVOID UNNECESSARY THINGS. STAY SAFE.