Hey there, you over on the swings. I see you soaking up the sun, enjoying a blissful afternoon while the world around you is anything but normal. Or you, shooting hoops and celebrating with your buddies. Did you just attempt a slam dunk? Impressive! And you, having a picnic with your friends—what’s in that box of wine? Do you even realize how exceptional you are? You might think you’re invincible, but let me remind you, we’re in the midst of a global pandemic.
As I dashed out to grab a prescription (yes, for anxiety), I couldn’t help but notice you all outside, seemingly oblivious or perhaps indifferent to the seriousness of our situation. You’re young, healthy—maybe you think you’re untouchable because you’re under 65 with no health issues? Well, take a moment to consider: the virus doesn’t discriminate based on age or fitness level.
My cousin, Alex, is just 25—an All-American lacrosse player, fit and healthy, and yet, here he is, lying in a hospital bed in a medically induced coma, relying on a ventilator to breathe. No prior health problems, just a normal young man commuting daily from New Jersey to New York City, completely unaware of the danger he was facing.
At first, the news made it seem like young people were safe from COVID-19. Millennials and Gen Z were thought to be immune, and many believed it was primarily a concern for older adults. Remember those spring breakers who shrugged off the risks? One even said to CBS News, “If I get corona, I get corona. I’m not going to let it stop me from partying.” Well, guess what? By March 21, the University of Tampa reported that at least five students who went on spring break tested positive for the virus. So much for that carefree attitude.
As of now, the CDC reports nearly half a million COVID-19 cases globally with over 20,000 deaths. The numbers in the U.S. have skyrocketed, growing from around 2,000 to almost 85,000 in just weeks. The reality is, while most people recover from the virus without needing hospitalization, there are no guarantees. Recent statistics show that about 12-13% of those affected require medical attention, and alarmingly, one in five hospitalizations are among individuals aged 20 to 44. Just last week, Los Angeles recorded its first COVID-19 death of someone under 18.
Don’t be fooled into thinking that being young and healthy protects you. Think about Alex—this vibrant athlete, now fighting for every breath. It’s a stark reminder of how quickly things can turn.
So why are you at the park? Or the basketball court? Why are you out and about, seemingly without a care? Right now, we all share a common concern—our collective health and safety. Each of us must prioritize the well-being of others over our own desire for leisure activities. Your enjoyment should not come at the cost of someone else’s life. So the next time you consider heading out, remember: I see you. We all see you, and we won’t forget.
For ongoing updates on COVID-19, visit reputable resources like the NHS for valuable information about home insemination and pregnancy. And if you’d like to explore more about the impact of the pandemic, check out this insightful post at Home Insemination Kit.
In summary, the pandemic affects everyone, regardless of age or health. Young people should not underestimate the risks and must act responsibly for the sake of the community.