During these challenging times, a poignant message has emerged: “Have you ever witnessed your child needing life support? I have. Trust me, staying home is the best option.” To those who haven’t experienced this, such words may come across as harsh or even cold. I acknowledge that they are. No parent wants to visualize such a scenario amidst the current chaos. However, given the dire circumstances we are facing with rampant illness and loss, these are the realities we must confront.
The truth is this: if you choose to ignore social distancing measures, you are endangering the lives of those around you.
While I cannot claim to understand the pain of losing a loved one to COVID-19, I do know the depth of sorrow that comes from losing a child. Years before this pandemic took hold, my four-month-old son, Jacob, didn’t wake up one Sunday morning. When I found him, he was unresponsive, and as emergency responders arrived, I heard them urgently discussing equipment sizes for intubation. They struggled for what felt like an eternity, but deep down, we all knew they were fighting a losing battle. They wanted to say they did everything possible, but I knew they were aware of the inevitable outcome.
I will carry the weight of my son’s loss for the rest of my life. Though I’ve found ways to cope, the pain is a burden I will always bear. I would willingly forfeit so much to spare another parent from this heart-wrenching experience. With the current surge of illness, my thoughts frequently drift to how many families might soon join this unbearable reality.
Initially, it was believed that children were less vulnerable to the coronavirus, but recent findings have shown otherwise. Children can contract the virus just like adults, and while their symptoms are often milder, infants and those with weakened immune systems are at a greater risk. Some parents are taking stringent precautions, allowing their children to venture out only for essential needs—something we could all learn from. Yet, I see others planning playdates or letting their kids roam the neighborhood freely.
I find myself asking, do they not understand the gravity of the situation? Yes, I admit I’m judging them. How can anyone be so oblivious? A healthy child might recover, but not every family will be so fortunate.
No matter how confined your children feel during this pandemic, there are alternatives like taking walks or using video calls to connect with friends. I don’t care how exhausted you are from the struggle of keeping them indoors—your role as a parent is to protect them. It’s crucial to remember that even asymptomatic carriers can spread this virus. There is simply no justification for endangering others when lives are at stake.
Just last week, we learned of a tragic loss: an infant and a 17-year-old boy succumbed to COVID-19. Each day, people of all ages are losing their lives to this virus, and if staying home isn’t enough motivation, think about the families left behind to grieve. Countless mothers, fathers, and siblings will emerge from this pandemic forever altered by loss.
Moreover, these grieving families may not even have the comfort of a proper funeral, left instead to mourn alone in isolation. They won’t receive the hugs of support that are so vital in the early stages of grief, only a distant connection via a screen.
If you’re unconcerned about COVID-19, that’s your choice. But stay home anyway. Many are genuinely fearful of losing their loved ones.
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In summary, we must remain vigilant and responsible for the safety of our loved ones and community. The actions we take today could save lives tomorrow.