Sorted by: Theme: Essay

Written Story by Win Win Maw

I am Win Win Maw, a dedicated individual who has called the United States home for more than 7 years. However, my journey has been marked by the challenges of managing diabetes, a condition I have been coping with for the past 24 years. It requires constant vigilance and careful management of my health.

In May 2019, on an ordinary day, I began experiencing troublesome symptoms. A running nose and a persistent cough seemed to have taken hold of me. Concerned about my well-being, I decided to seek answers and find relief for my discomfort.

On that fateful evening of April 2nd, around 10 o’clock, I found myself immersed in browsing the New York News website. Amidst the vast array of news articles, one topic stood out: Covid. Although my voice was hoarse, a result of my ongoing symptoms, I couldn’t resist reading more about this novel virus that was starting to impact the world.

Little did I know that the unfolding Covid situation would dramatically alter my life. The global pandemic forced me to make significant changes in my daily routine, mainly revolving around staying home and taking all the necessary precautions to protect myself and my loved ones. Wearing a mask even at home became a norm, as I lived in close proximity to my husband and son.

This has been an incredibly challenging time for me. The fear of contracting the virus and the uncertainty surrounding my health condition have been ever-present. Navigating through these uncertain times has required strength, resilience, and unwavering determination.

Amidst these trials, I decided to visit a clinic in the hopes of finding some answers and relief from my worsening symptoms. To my dismay, the chief physician informed me that my condition was critical and that hospitalization was necessary. Thus, on June 13th, I found myself admitted to the hospital, where a dedicated team of healthcare professionals would closely monitor my health.

It was particularly distressing to recall the news report from New York News that I had come across on April 2nd. The article highlighted the alarming escalation of the Covid situation, with a rising death toll and a significant increase in cases across the United States. The gravity of the situation weighed heavily on my mind as I lay in the hospital bed, fighting my own battle.

The impact of Covid on my health became more evident as the doctors diagnosed me with pneumonia and additional upper respiratory complications. Each passing day felt like an uphill battle, leaving me exhausted and drained. Not only was my health deteriorating, but my concerns extended to my younger brother and sister, who also fell ill during this challenging period.

Fever episodes were an all-too-familiar occurrence for me. Whenever my body temperature spiked, I sought refuge in the emergency department, hoping for relief from my pneumonia and other respiratory issues. However, the situation seemed to persist, and my concerns grew with each passing day.

The local clinic I relied on for medical attention was overcrowded, making it increasingly difficult to receive the proper care and attention I so desperately needed. It became apparent that the healthcare system was under immense strain, trying to accommodate the growing number of Covid cases and the subsequent complications that arose.

Adding to my worries, my beloved son began displaying worrisome symptoms. High fever and discomfort compelled us to rush him to the hospital. The waiting game began as we awaited the test results, praying fervently that his condition was not severe. The doctors decided to conduct an ultrasound, which revealed potential abnormalities in his lungs. We eagerly awaited the chest X-ray results to confirm the diagnosis, while additional tests were ordered to gain a better understanding of his condition.

Despite the personal challenges I faced, I found solace in the fact that I had received the Covid 19 vaccine.

I understand that there have been various challenges and difficulties in the country. It is important to support and provide assistance to those who are affected. If someone needs help, they can seek assistance from the relevant authorities or organizations. In 2020, during the forth waves of COVID-19, the situation was quite severe. People should follow the guidelines and receive medical treatment at the designated healthcare centers. Both physical and mental well being should be taken into consideration. My mental trauma had worsened because of my husband also got heart attack after one month of his post Covid . I was so tired too taking care of him as well as my Covid also was very bad . My mental trauma is still bad because of consequences of Covid.

Themes:

Care & COVID 19EssayGrief & ChangeMental Health/Wellbeing

Medium: Written

Author: Win Win Maw

Date Submitted: November 28, 2023

Bio:

I am Win Win Maw from Burma migrated to the states for more than 7 years .

Written Story by Tonya Jones

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Mama’s Burden: The Struggle of Childcare

I’m a pragmatic person. I like to get to the root of why things are the way they are. When the pandemic first hit, it caused me to think more about what it means to be a mother in our society. Despite the rhetoric of sweet sentiments of motherhood (often dished out during Mother’s Day), our country hasn’t really done a great job of supporting mothers. Particularly, mothers of color (MOC). It was reported millions of women had to drop out of the workforce, primarily due to childcare. The struggles around childcare has been the Achilles heel of most working women. It was exacerbated during the lockdown, as caregivers found themselves having to homeschool children, while they also worked from home. The ‘double duty’ of mothers (household and outside work responsibilities), turned into a triple duty. In some cases, quadruple duty, if elderly or more vulnerable family members became sick with the COVID-19 virus. Their care also became another task for mothers. Yet, with all these burdens being placed on caregivers, there was limited societal support.

MOC were especially at a disadvantage. Ms. magazine discussed this in the article, “Women Are Still Disproportionately Suffering from Pandemic Unemployment.” It is noted that childcare is the overwhelming reason why mothers have not bounced back as quickly regarding work opportunities. MOC are at the forefront of this issue. I’m a Black single mama. I spent the past year unemployed. I had to leave my position, as the demand of return to the office became the mantra of employers. It didn’t matter we were still in the throes of the second wave of the virus (delta corona). It didn’t matter schools were still closing left and right due to students/teachers getting sick, or staff shortages. It didn’t matter that many childcare places were closed or limiting enrollment for safety.

I had no one to help with before/after school care. The burden was on me. It’s still on me. I still have not found reliable childcare, almost three years later. Then the economic stress of not working. The biggest fear was losing housing. I was lucky and qualified for pandemic housing assistance. There was also some relief with the child tax credit checks. Of course, those were snatched away, despite the fact it was proven it helped caregivers tremendously with day to day living expenses. The pandemic years have not been kind to MOC.

I’m a lover of books. Recently, I read Essential Labor: Mothering as Social Change, by Angela Garbes. Garbes discussed how the pandemic impacted her as a mother. Overall, the book delves into the challenges faced by mothers, whether married or not. As a MOC (Filipino-American), Garbes gave voice to the unique barriers of women from her community and MOC outside of it. Her overall argument was that our society needs to acknowledge that childrearing is work. That MOC are the most economically exploited and there tends to be no respect for the essential labor they provide.

The pandemic showed me we still have a long way to go in empowering and supporting caregivers.

Themes:

Care & COVID 19Community Connection & IsolationEssayIdentity & Social ChangeMental Health/WellbeingWork/Unemployment

Medium: Written

Author: Tonya Jones

Date Submitted: November 28, 2023

Bio:

Tonya Jones was mostly raised in Portland, OR. She attended Portland State University. Jones is the founder of PDX Women of Color Zine Collective. She is the proud parent of an energetic little human. Jones enjoys reading, writing, and traveling.

Written Story by Terry Waiganjo

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My pandemic experience was rough but super rewarding at the same time. The pandemic hit when I was about to finish my masters degree. I had a part time job during the day and I would study in the evenings. I was living alone. When the pandemic hit, I lost my job as a local NGO researcher as the program I was working for lost its funding. At the same time, my school shut down and we later resumed online classes despite my difficulty in learning virtually. My brother and I decided to live together to cut costs as we both lost our jobs. We were far from any close relative who could help us and we knew we didn’t want to move around and spread the virus around.

What came out of this who experience was a text book of lessons, mistakes, and more lessons.

Technology played a crucial role in keeping people connected. While physical distancing was necessary, virtual platforms allowed individuals and communities to stay in touch. Video calls, online events, and social media became the primary means of communication for my brother and I. We could even video call each other in the same house if one of us feared exposure to COVID-19. Some friendships grew stronger as individuals reached out and provided support to my brother and I during difficult times. We got a text from our landlord saying there was a Jewish community in our neighborhood who were looking for families without an income or food. They were to prepare several meals to last a week and deliver to our door. All we needed to do is sign up online. This was amazing. We have delicious food, some we havd never tried, and we ate for weeks. They even delivered when we had not finished the previous meals. The sense of unity mostly from complete strangers shocked me most because I was previously unaware of peoples kindness.

Self-discovery and personal growth was a huge lesson for me. I never knew I could be a home body. I never likes spending anytime alone by myself let alone in my house. The pandemic forced people me to adapt to new circumstances, leading to self-reflection and personal growth. With more time spent alone or in isolation, I had the opportunity to delve deeper into my own thoughts and emotions. I discovered new hobbies, developed resilience, and gained a greater understanding of my own strengths and weaknesses.

I missed my home land Kenya even more in the pandemic. I was homesick almost every day. Certain images, events, and sounds from the pandemic will likely stay with people for years to come. The sight of empty streets, healthcare workers on the front lines, made me think about how things were back home. My friends would tell me how things were almost normal at home. There was curfew but parties would go on restaurants and bars were open, My friends were having more fun it seemed and comparing that life with the emptiness of the streets of Oregon will stay with me. Overall, the pandemic challenged individuals and communities in unprecedented ways. While it undoubtedly caused hardship and disruption, it also highlighted the resilience and adaptability of humanity. It showed me people can surprise you and show support in the most amazing ways. I pray that unity and commitment to protect each other never goes away.

Themes:

Care & COVID 19Community Connection & IsolationEssayGrief & ChangeIdentity & Social ChangeInspiration & HopeWork/Unemployment

Medium: Written

Author: Terry Waiganjo

Date Submitted: November 28, 2023

Bio:

My name is Terry. I live and work in Oregon. I am blessed to have survived the pandemic and live to tell a story.

Written Story by Anonymous

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I am a nonbinary physician of color. I actually worked for the state governmental COVID 19 response here in Oregon, as my first job in this state.

I felt tremendous responsibility and pride in doing the work I did when I did it, because there was an acknowledgement of community stake, partnership and investment with the way we did our work. Blue state vs. Red Federal policy clashes somewhat helped with the ability to do the work, above and beyond what the CDC was publishing in those days. We were in a group of about 18 physicians and scientists writing policy and guidance from a variety of lived experiences. I contributed heavily as a physician of color and made some of my first few friends in Oregon working in POC predominant teams as the scientific liaison to state based community engagement work. I was publicly shamed and ridiculed on the internet by trolls and those at odds with the state’s policies that emphasized community action and non- pharmacologic interventions to keep everyone safe from a new, scary and unpredictable threat. Yet through all this, I persisted.

I ended up leaving my position in early 2022 when after more than a year of conflicting policies, shifting narratives, the politicized CDC influence on state-based policy making was too great and overrun by individualistic public health policies to an airborne pathogen. For something as contagious as COVID-19 and with ongoing high mortality and even higher morbidity, an individualistic approach just serves to marginalize the few- the disabled, the elderly, the chronically ill, and really a lot of female bodied people without any of the above conditions with the disproportionate and increasing toll of long Covid in all these populations.

Out of concern for my own safety and to avoid new disability, I have continued to avoid getting infected. These days it has been getting increasingly difficult. I spent the 6+ years of my medical training suppressing and coping with a moderately disabling condition to know how terrible it was to feel even moderately disanled compared to peers. A friend even casually mentioned one day that I was a 27 year old in a 40 year old body. Ableism exists and even worse so for people in the health professions. I also don’t have the luxury to assuming that my family with chronic illness including immunosuppression will survive repeat COVID infections without worsening of their chronic conditions, or loss of their transplant organ.

Since COVID-19 continues to kill 1.5 times as many people as seasonal influenza, and maim even more even in the times of Omicron sublineages, I don’t have the choice to ignore it. Ignoring it could potentially risk my livelihood, my intellectual ability, including the brain that got me through years of medical school, and the physical ability that allows me to enjoy life without pain and restriction.

As an extrovert, my life has changed dramatically. Negatively? Not necessarily. I’m selective with my friendships, I have stopped seeing a lot of my friends who have moved on mostly because of dismissive or slighting comments, and unwillingness to make accommodations to see me. My life is full of outdoor patios, and masked brief indoor outings here in the states. I have traveled and continue to travel with my partner- albeit in lower frequency than pre 2020 – in fit tested n95 respirators. I got to go to Japan to experience life in a collectivist society, even if for a brief while, earlier this year. My respirator kept me safe, as did community masking through all kinds of crowded venues.

The costs of my life are that I know more, and care more about chronic illness and the dangers of reinfection. Much more than my immediate family, my partner and oftentimes some healthcare providers. That’s been a side effect of always staying appraised and up-to-date on this virus and its accompanying set of illnesses. It’s a burdensome role, shared by many other new branded COVID experts, even larger of a burden for those studying long COVID, those studying end organ system and immunologic impacts, who then have to share this data with the public. It’s a tremendous moral injury to be a caregiver of people and of populations in these times.

I returned to clinical practice for a short while between policy changes, for a half day per week from the summer of 2021 to 2022. I had a mostly substance use reduction based practice and felt uncomfortable in increasing workloads of COVID-19 positive patient care that I knew were upcoming especially with increasing community transmission. However, with societal reopening and the end of the mask mandate on transit, my commute on crowded max trains got increasingly uncomfortable, and especially so during times of high community transmission. I left in-person clinical practice, a year after I had re-entered it. I feel increasingly reluctant to return especially with the loss of universal masking in healthcare settings even more recently. Unfortunately, this virus is not at a virulence that I can tolerate workplace exposures without reasonable mitigation. Despite some personal and group based advocacy I engaged along with others, mostly disabled, suffering from long COVID, or other chronic illness that puts them at risk, we failed to achieve a stay on healthcare masking. I have been lucky enough to not require frequent healthcare services for myself during this period of sustained viral infectivity and severity combined with falling mitigations. But these compounded losses as a healthcare provider, I will grieve for longer, and more deeply than some of my other social and community losses where I could rebuild and forge new connections from the small but still strong community of people who care about community caring, love, support and wellness.

The only times I feel concerned for my wellbeing and mental health are in the gaslighting and minimizing comments by healthcare providers, and colleagues both in public health and healthcare who have “moved on” and make comments to indicate disapproval or worse, incredulity.

I knew, years ago, when I entered Healthcare as a profession, that this was a place for healthy people, who “worked out”, who experienced no chronic illness, both physical or behavioral, or none that they could show transparently. This has been highlighted by the Oregon Medical Board’s decision to remove stigmatizing language on the attestation forms for physician licensure around mental health and substance use. But cosmetic fixes like this don’t dismantle the very real systemic ableism in healthcare that continue to persist. Some of the same reasons for physician suicide I see replicated in the gaslighting, marginalization and repeated dismissal of physicians who desire and have very real physical needs to avoid and minimize infections and reinfection with COVID as a reason to avoid or reduce the chance of disability. If our healthcare workforce, agencies and systems can’t even care for our own, who will care for our patients?

Themes:

AbleismCare & COVID 19Community Connection & IsolationDisability/ImmunocompromisedEssayGrief & ChangeMental Health/WellbeingWork/Unemployment

Medium: Written

Author: Anonymous

Date Submitted: November 28, 2023

Bio:

Physician and public health practitioner working across healthcare and patient-led advocacy.

Written Story by Shariff Abdullahaziz

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As the days went by, the symptoms of Covid-19 started to take their toll on my body. The loss of taste and smell persisted, making every meal a bland and uneventful experience. However, my wife’s culinary skills and creativity shone through as she experimented with different flavors and textures to make eating more enjoyable for me. She also researched home remedies and natural therapies to help alleviate the discomfort and boost my immune system.

Despite the physical challenges, it was the mental and emotional aspect of battling Covid-19 that proved to be the most difficult. Isolation from my loved ones took a toll on my spirits. Missing the warmth of family gatherings, the laughter of my children, and the support of friends became a constant ache in my heart. But technology bridged the gap as we connected virtually, sharing stories, jokes, and even shedding tears together.

During this time, I also grappled with anxiety and fear about the uncertain future. The financial strain caused by my inability to work for several months due to the illness weighed heavily on my mind. Debt accumulated, and the burden seemed insurmountable. However, I leaned on the strength of my family, friends, and the support systems available in the community to navigate through these challenges. They provided guidance, resources, and emotional support, reminding me that I was not alone in this journey.

As the weeks passed, I witnessed the power of resilience and the miracles of the human body. Gradually, my sense of taste and smell returned, bringing with it a renewed sense of hope and gratitude. The fever subsided, and the persistent pain gradually faded away. Finally, after two long weeks of isolation, I received the news I had been eagerly awaiting – a follow-up test confirmed that I was Covid-free. It was a moment of pure joy and relief for me and my family.

However, the road to recovery didn’t end there. The impact of the virus lingered, both physically and emotionally. Fatigue crept into my daily life, reminding me of the battle my body had fought. Memory lapses and difficulty concentrating became unwelcome companions. I realized that the aftermath of Covid-19 extended far beyond the period of illness, and I needed to prioritize self-care and seek medical guidance to address these lingering effects.

With the support of healthcare professionals, I embarked on a journey of rehabilitation and healing. Physical exercises and cognitive stimulation became part of my daily routine as I worked to regain my strength, memory, and focus. Therapy sessions provided a safe space to express my fears, anxieties, and challenges, enabling me to develop coping mechanisms and build resilience.

Slowly but surely, life began to regain its rhythm. I returned to work, grateful for the opportunity to contribute once again. However, the psychological trauma of the Covid-19 experience remained with me. The fear of the unknown, the memories of isolation, and the fragility of life continued to shape my perspective. But through it all, I held onto the lessons learned – the importance of gratitude, resilience, and cherishing the moments we often take for granted.

Today, as I reflect on my journey, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude for the unwavering support of my family, the dedication of healthcare professionals, and the resilience of the human spirit. The scars of the past may still be visible, but they serve as a reminder of the strength and courage it took to overcome the challenges that Covid-19 presented.

In this new chapter of life, I strive to live each day with renewed purpose, cherishing the simple joys, and never taking the gift of health for granted. The memories of hardship and triumph will forever be etched in my heart, serving as a constant reminder of the indomitable spirit

Themes:

Care & COVID 19Community Connection & IsolationEssayInspiration & HopeMental Health/WellbeingWork/Unemployment

Medium: Written

Author: Shariff Abdullahaziz

Date Submitted: November 28, 2023

Bio:

I’m Shariff I come form Burma migrate to the USA for 7 years now living in Oregon

Written Story by Seth

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Embracing Love Across Boundaries

My name is Seth, and amidst the chaos and uncertainty of a global pandemic, I experienced a profound journey into fatherhood. It was during these trying times that my wife, Grace, and I welcomed our first baby girl, Galaxy, into the world. Little did we know that the curfew imposed by the circumstances would prevent our family members, including my own parents, from being physically present to witness this precious moment.

As the day approached, anxiety mingled with excitement in my heart. The joy of becoming a father was overwhelming, but a sense of sadness seeped in as well. I longed for my parents to be by our side, to shower their love upon their granddaughter and share in the joyous occasion. Yet, due to the curfew restrictions, their presence seemed like a distant dream.

Within the walls of the hospital, I held Grace’s hand tightly, providing her with the comfort and support she needed during labor. As our daughter, Galaxy, came into this world, a wave of emotions washed over me. The absence of our families was deeply felt, but I couldn’t let despair cloud this precious moment. With the help of modern technology, we connected with our parents through video calls, sharing the incredible sight of Galaxy’s arrival. Their faces lit up with pure love and pride, albeit through the screen. Tears of joy mingled with longing as we witnessed their overwhelming emotions from afar.

In the days that followed, I witnessed Grace’s strength and resilience as she embraced motherhood with grace. Together, we navigated the sleepless nights and celebrated every milestone our little Galaxy reached. Yet, a part of me yearned for the presence of my own parents, for their wisdom and guidance during this new chapter of our lives.

The curfew imposed by the pandemic became an unexpected catalyst for personal growth. I delved into books on fatherhood, seeking solace and insights that would help me become the best parent I could be.

However, the desire to introduce Galaxy to her grandparents remained a constant ache in my heart. Imagining their arms wrapped around her, showering her with love, became a bittersweet solace during quiet moments.

As the weeks turned into months, the curfew gradually eased, allowing careful visits from loved ones. The day finally arrived when my parents, masks in place and hearts overflowing with love, entered our home. Tears of joy streamed down our faces as they cradled their granddaughter, Galaxy, for the first time, their touch conveying a lifetime of affection and adoration. In that beautiful moment, the distance and longing of the past months melted away, replaced by an unbreakable bond that defied physical separation.

Looking at Galaxy, surrounded by the love and warmth of her grandparents, I understood that our connection had been forged in the face of adversity. The memories of those early days, marked by solitude and longing, would forever remind us of the power of love and the resilience of family bonds.

As I watched my little Galaxy grow, I marveled at the strength of our family’s love and how it had persevered despite the challenges we faced. Our reunion was not just a celebration of physical presence but a testament to the indomitable spirit of love and connection that transcends boundaries.

Galaxy, with her radiant smile and curious eyes, became a beacon of hope and resilience in our lives. The times when her grandparents couldn’t hold her physically were replaced by countless video calls and virtual storytelling sessions, ensuring that the bond between them remained unbreakable.

And so, as I held Galaxy close, I knew that her journey into this world was imbued with a unique story.

As conclusion, the pandemic has tested our resilience and redefined our priorities. Through adversity, we have learned the value of human connection, adaptability, and compassion. As we move forward, we carry the lessons learned and a collective determination to create a better future.

Themes:

Community Connection & IsolationEssayGrief & ChangeHealth CareInspiration & Hope

Medium: Written

Author: Seth

Date Submitted: November 28, 2023

Bio:

I am a dedicated husband and father who experienced the profound journey of parenthood during the pandemic. Despite the curfew restrictions that kept my family apart, I embraced technology and personal growth, navigating the challenges with resilience. Through unwavering love and determination, my family and I emerged stronger, proving that love transcends boundaries.

Written Story by Anonymous

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Socrates said, “The secret to change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new.” While Covid may not have been old when my daughter was born in late December of 2019, I certainly wanted to build a new foundation for my partner and I’d daughter. We had tried for years to conceive and in the spring of 2019, when the positive result appeared, I was overjoyed! My partner is an amazing woman and simply the greatest mother, my daughter and I are both so fortunate to have her in our lives. Knowing that she and I get the joy of preparing to bring into the world our greatest joy was a gift beyond measure. And boy did that time go fast!

The Sunday morning that my partner’s water broke was a whirlwind of movement to get to the hospital as quickly as possible. You see, our daughter was born 3 weeks early and we hadn’t yet prepared for her as much as we should have. While my partner is a very forward-thinking individual, I tend to focus on the present and worry about the details later. Let’s just say that I am so, so glad that my partner had a bag packed for herself and we had a crib (even if the mattress for the crib wasn’t being delivered until Monday). We drove to the hospital through a small rainstorm, but we made it safely and got checked in, ready to see our daughter.

My partner was induced and delivered our daughter within the same day. Look, I have seen tough people, having worked on several trail crews doing manual labor such as literally wrestling holders into the perfect position for a stone step (my partner has done this work as well, I’m proud to say), but no one could have handled the pain of being induced to deliver in such a small amount of time as my partner. To say I felt a little useless and a whole lot confused wouldn’t be a wholly invalid statement. But I tried to help how I could and my partner, the real champ, delivered our little girl into the world at 9 PM on the day she checked into the hospital. I will never forget hearing our daughter’s first cry or the warmth in my heart seeing my partner holding our wonderful child.

Our parents came to the hospital, along with my partner’s brother, and we all were so happy to welcome our little bundle of joy into a world of opportunity and love. While navigating a whole new world of parenthood in our hospital room, there was change brewing. Our daughter was placed onto a 2-hour feeding schedule to help gain weight as she was born early and needed to gain weight before being discharged. While I will do whatever I have to do make sure our daughter is provided for and I heard about sleep disruption with a new child, it was hard. Through the joys of navigating becoming first time parents, I realized just how little I would not do or change to give our daughter the life she deserved.

Nearing the end of our hospital stay we were watching CNN. This was early January 2020 and not more than a few days earlier we were celebrating the new year with my partner’s parents and brother while my daughter slept on her mother’s chest. But it was hard to be joyful, or optimistic, when witnessing people being forcefully quarantined into their homes in Wuhan, China. Change was happening and, even thousands of miles away, it seemed like uncertain times were upon us. It was frightening to say the least but, optimistic to a fault, I thought that whatever was happening in Wuhan would not come to Coos County in Oregon…

Well to say I am wrong is about like saying the surface of the sun is a bit warm. I expected life to change when I became a father. Maybe I will get less sleep, cut back on my gaming time, and be prepared to listen to some catchy kid songs if come to learn to enjoy (hopefully). But what I ended up with was a world where millions would die from a virus that spread globally within months. It was NOT what I wanted for my daughter.

During the Covid-19 pandemic many people experienced changes that radically altered their perceived future, their careers, their financial stability, and dashed away many hopes and dreams. While I cannot say that I had the worst of it by any stretch, before our daughter finally received her Covid-19 vaccine we had moved towns, I lost my job as a sole supporter to my family, began counseling services, and experienced the frustration of seeing my daughter grow up in a world in which my partner and I had to restrict seeing family and friends to ensure the health of our daughter. I understand I am not unique or alone in those situations but there was not exactly a handbook for this.

There were many parts of the pandemic that actually provided me with what I would never have dreamed of having before. I have worked completely remotely since my daughter was born, and if I can help it at all I will try in all of my power to keep it that way. The chance to be home with my family during the day was such an amazing experience. It has not been easy, especially when I was doing direct practice for a while, but my current job in a whole new field has been both challenging and rewarding. That change HAS been a silver lining from the changes caused by Covid-19.

Change is the only constant in this world. While I knew that well before Covid, perhaps it had shown me just how easy it is for society to radically change. So, as Socrates said, perhaps it is best to stop fighting the old and to instead pursue what I DO want for my future. The pandemic has shown me I want to be the best father I can, the best partner I can, and to be brave enough to fall. But more importantly the bravery to get up after falling. It hit me hard, really hard, when I lost my job. I went to school for that job, and it felt like sand slipping through my hand and floating in the wind while I was frozen in fear…

But that did not stop me. I continued to search for change, to search for good. What inspired that change was my daughter. No matter what I will do, I need to do to ensure she gets EVERYTHING she needs to have a happy life. I am sure almost every parent would say the same. Becoming a parent was a change. Witnessing and living through the pandemic was a change. Those two events happened so closely together it is difficult to say which affected me the most. But I don’t have to choose which one did impact me, that is in the old. What matters now is the new.

A new life with love, life, and the opportunity to see my family thrive. To see my daughter go to pre-school and work towards becoming the veterinarian she says she will become. My wife will find a job she loves and be close to her family. And through it all I will continue to support them. My new change is to live my life for them because they are my life. I know that is cliché but I can’t help it. All I want is my loved ones to be happy, healthy, and to pursue the new that they are meant to pursue.

Themes:

Community Connection & IsolationEssayGrief & ChangeIdentity & Social ChangeInspiration & HopeMental Health/WellbeingPregnancy & BirthWork/Unemployment

Medium: Written

Author: Anonymous

Date Submitted: November 28, 2023

Written Story by Anonymous

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In March of 2020, Covid19 descended in our community much like any other communities in Oregon. The entire community went into lock down just like the whole State and Country did. We entered into survivor mode in effort to combat and educate community members about this terrible pandemic. This was not easy and it required cooperation of everyone. As a community our first and primary duty was to assure that everyone is safe and protected. We followed every single guideline as given without exception. We also resulted in using traditional healing mechanism for preventing getting this terrible disease. One of the best way was to protect ourselves from getting a cold which could result in possibly weakening the body and making it susceptible to getting infected. So we consumed everything that will fortify our bodies ans health. One of the simplest remedies used was to boil a combination of lemon, ginger, onion, and garlic and then add a spoon of natural honey. This was the perfect combination to make the body not susceptible to cold. This little an simple remedy worked like magic. We also formed an alliance in our community towards protecting our community members. This was meant to assure that everyone was healthy. We connect via frequent phone calls, via social media such whatsapp very often if not daily. We did drive by to our community members that to assure more visibility and assurance that everyone was doing well. It doesn’t mean that member did not get sick, it simply means that we kept an open communication to assure that if a community member was to get convid19, we will sick resources to assure that he or she is has all the care they need. This was not a simple endeavor since there was still some stigma about covid19 as some people thought they will be shined if it discovered that they have been infected by Civid19. So we had to create a sense of community understanding that covid19 is a disease that no one is immune. At any particular time anyone could unfortunately get it. The most important this is that it matters to assure that anyone affected will get all care and help they needed to make sure the come though victorious. As a community we launched a campaign designed to informatio all community members on facts about covid19, and possible remedies including self care. This became the most important mission of community elders to assure that our community stays unified and in keeping everyone safe. This involved frequent phone calls, frequent chats and once in while a get together in socially distanced way. All of these measures were meant to stay connected and stay current by ensuring the well-being of community members. One of the best weapon we realized was education. Education provided knowledge, shared values, collaboration, and understanding that no one was alone. In this circumstances assuring that every member was well and healthy was all we needed to accomplish our goal. This is often a long term project for community well-being.

Themes:

Care & COVID 19Community Connection & IsolationEssayGrief & ChangeIdentity & Social ChangeInspiration & HopeRemote Connections

Medium: Written

Author: Anonymous

Date Submitted: November 28, 2023

Bio:

I am a community member who cares about our community with a lifelong commitment to advance community well-being.

Written Story by Rebel Fayola Black

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I haven’t gotten COVID….yet. But it has changed my life, for worse AND for better.

I have worn a mask every time I’ve gone into public since Spring 2020. First, I sewed them myself, perfecting a pattern with a wire nose piece that fit my face snugly. The fabrics were so pretty, and I used cool elastic for the ear loops. Now, I wear N-95’s with the headbands, because they are so much safer. I’ve worn a mask every time I’ve gone into public since Spring 2020 despite having a trauma history of having my mouth and nose covered and being unable to take a breath. It’s my responsibility to myself and my community to stay safe(r), even when it’s hard…even when it triggers a trauma response.

When the mask mandate was dropped–the government kowtowing to business interests over our health–it made it so much harder to go into public. It’s hard to take precautions when it isn’t normalized, and it isn’t safe to be in crowds (such as a grocery store) when no one is masking. When healthcare settings dropped the mask mandate, I felt actually in danger. Going into Emergency or Primary Care settings where no one is wearing masks feels horrific. When I see a provider wearing a mask, I thank them in order to reinforce their behavior. (To all the people reading this who still wear masks, THANK YOU!)

See, I’m Disabled, low-income, have diabetes and a low immune system (low IgG), mast cell disease, and am fat. When I get sick, I get REALLY sick. Statistically, I am less likely to be prioritized by the healthcare system if there’s an outbreak that results in healthcare rationing. I also have caregivers who come into my home every day: they wear N-96 masks as well, but I still worry.

I was Disabled before COVID: I am mostly housebound. I’ve been isolated for years. It’s lonely, and I often couldn’t attend meetings in person. I stopped being able to work due to complex pain and chronic fatigue. I had trouble getting to therapy. Getting groceries was an almost impossible task for me even before COVID.

During COVID, suddenly it was more prevalent for my non-Disabled friends to be open to meeting and hanging out over Zoom. So my social and political world opened up. I was finally able to engage in organizing from my bed! I’m currently on a steering committee for a transitional house for LGBTQ2SIA+ people coming out of incarceration, and that is exciting and liberating. We meet remotely.I was able to see my friends’ faces when we talked, and they were open to chatting more frequently. Instacart was more normalized and I felt less guilty using it when I needed to.

I was able to start a Disability Justice and Racial Equity consulting business: Leaping Water. I can engage with colleagues around the country. I am able to work from home, which is an access need I have advocated for for years–to much resistance from the non-Disabled working world. Using Zoom was normalized, rather than fringe. So I’m able to do work and attend trainings and conferences and organizing meetings from my home, where I can breathe purified air and be comfortable with my legs up (an access need).

To be honest, I resented when non-Disabled people complained about being newly isolated and burdened by remote work, remote socializing, remote conferences, remote anything. “It’s just not the same as being together in person!” they lamented. While I have empathy, it felt like a slap in the face to all of us who have been struggling to connect to the outside world for decades…even longer for our Disabled elders. Moreover, having these activities be remote OPENED UP MY WORLD. Finally, my access needs were being met.

So, COVID has been a mixed bag. I’m worried about getting it, especially because of the potential impacts of Long COVID, but the pandemic also forced structural changes that Disabled people have been advocating for for years. I just hope those structural changes are here to stay. With the mask mandates being lifted, it feels like non-Disabled people are going back to their version of “normal,” while the rest of us are left behind. Please don’t leave us behind.

Themes:

Care & COVID 19Community Connection & IsolationEssayIdentity & Social ChangeInspiration & HopeMental Health/WellbeingOrganizing & Movement Building

Medium: Written

Author: Rebel Fayola Black

Date Submitted: November 28, 2023

Bio:

Rebel Fayola Black (he/him) is a multiracial, zami, fat, Disabled, gender expansive, survivor femme educator, space-holder, and access artist. Growing up in Cincinnati Ohio, Rebel saw first-hand how his communities were impacted by racism. The police murder of Timothy Thomas in 2001, and the rebellion in his (& Rebel’s) neighborhood that followed, were wake-up calls. Since that April, Rebel has focused on studying, practicing, and reflecting on liberation work: be it around race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or other experiences.

Written Story by Rabia Jabarkhil

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The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020 led to significant changes in the way people live, work, and interact with one another. Social distancing measures, lockdowns, and restrictions on gatherings have resulted in widespread feelings of isolation and disconnectedness. However, amid these challenging circumstances, communities have come together, adapting and finding innovative ways to maintain connections, support one another, and alleviate the impact of isolation.

Technology has played a pivotal role in maintaining community connections during the pandemic. Virtual platforms and communication tools have become lifelines for individuals and communities, enabling people to stay connected despite physical distances. Video conferencing platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet have become commonplace for work meetings, online classes, and social gatherings. These platforms have bridged the gap between people, allowing them to see and interact with loved ones, friends, and colleagues, providing a sense of normalcy.

Communities have rallied together to create support networks for those who are vulnerable or in need during these challenging times. Local organizations, volunteer groups, and neighborhood associations have organized initiatives to provide essential supplies, groceries, and medication to those unable to leave their homes. These acts of kindness and solidarity have helped combat the feeling of isolation, fostering a sense of belonging and community spirit. Also, the pandemic has witnessed the proliferation of online communities focused on shared interests and hobbies. Platforms like Reddit, Facebook Groups, and online forums have seen an increase in users seeking connection and support. These communities provide spaces for individuals to share experiences, discuss common interests, and find solace in knowing they are not alone. Whether it’s a book club, a fitness group, or a mental health support forum, these online communities have offered a sense of belonging and camaraderie during a time of physical separation.

The pandemic has also spurred creativity and innovation in maintaining community connections. People have organized virtual concerts, art exhibitions, and online performances, allowing artists to share their work and audiences to enjoy cultural experiences from the comfort of their homes. Local theaters have live-streamed performances, museums have offered virtual tours, and musicians have hosted online concerts. These creative endeavors have not only entertained and inspired individuals but have also brought communities together, fostering a shared sense of appreciation for the arts.

Recognizing the toll of isolation on mental health, individuals and communities have made concerted efforts to support one another emotionally. Mental health helplines, online counseling services, and virtual support groups have emerged, providing a crucial lifeline for those struggling with anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Communities have organized wellness challenges, meditation sessions, and mindfulness workshops to promote emotional well-being and encourage self-care practices. These initiatives have not only supported individuals in need but have also strengthened the fabric of community connections.

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented unprecedented challenges, with isolation and disconnectedness becoming prevalent issues in communities worldwide. However, in the face of adversity, communities have risen to the occasion, leveraging technology, fostering support networks, and nurturing a sense of togetherness. By embracing virtual platforms, creating online communities, and supporting one another’s mental health, individuals have found ways to connect, support, and uplift each other during these trying times. As we navigate the ongoing pandemic and beyond, it is essential to continue fostering these community connections, ensuring that no one feels isolated and that everyone can find solace, support, and a sense of belonging within their communities.

Themes:

Care & COVID 19Community Connection & IsolationEssayIdentity & Social ChangeInspiration & HopeMental Health/Wellbeing

Medium: Written

Author: Rabia Jabarkhil

Date Submitted: November 28, 2023