Two weeks ago, my partner, Jake, visited the doctor after experiencing mild fever and a sporadic cough. Normally, he would have brushed it off, but these are far from ordinary times.
Just two days before, he had arrived in Singapore from the United States, where three of our four kids reside. Upon landing at Changi Airport, he showed no signs of illness, thanks to strict health measures in place to identify potential COVID-19 cases. However, after waking up feeling unusually fatigued from jet lag, I suggested he check his temperature—a thought that wouldn’t have crossed my mind in less turbulent times.
His temperature was elevated. He decided to take it easy, but as the day progressed, his throat became sore and he developed a pounding headache. I was out at the moment but urged him to get tested. Six hours later, I received a text: “I have tested positive.” Soon after, he was placed in an isolation room at a large public hospital in Singapore, where he is now receiving antibiotics for a suspicious dark spot on his left lung, found during an X-ray.
Jake is typically active and health-conscious, making this diagnosis all the more shocking. I trust that his strong immune system will combat the virus, and I believe he’s receiving top-notch medical care during this unprecedented crisis. As I write this, I feel grateful to be in Singapore, a nation that has responded to the pandemic with swift and effective measures to manage the outbreak in a densely populated area.
Before I even had a chance to process the news from Jake, I received a call from the Ministry of Health. They instructed me to stay home and not to leave the premises. My son, Max, and I are now under a strict 14-day quarantine—any violations could cost me my employment pass, along with hefty fines or jail time. I fully support these measures; this virus is serious.
I’ve always considered myself resilient, having faced numerous challenges throughout my life. The relocation of our family due to my partner’s job has been particularly hard, especially now with three of my children (ages 16, 20, and 22) living so far away. Coupled with a nearly nonexistent income due to widespread event cancellations, my emotional reserves were already running low when I received that shocking message, “I have tested positive.”
Instead of bottling up my feelings, I reached out to my sisters, allowing myself to cry. I also informed a few close friends, and soon, it felt as though I was wrapped in a virtual “group hug” from loved ones across the globe.
I even went live on Facebook to share the news (I ended up doing two videos because a friend called in the middle of the first). The outpouring of support was overwhelming. Friends in Singapore delivered care packages to my doorstep—flowers, candles, art supplies, and even a large leg of lamb, which Max humorously exclaimed, “We should get quarantined more often, mum.” Max, a senior in high school, was supposed to enjoy his spring break in Bali with friends, but like many others, those plans fell through, and he became our “Chief Activities Coordinator” instead.
These are not normal times, and it’s certainly not an ordinary spring break. While we practice social distancing, I believe a better term would be physical distancing. Now is the time for us to stay socially connected. We must reach out, share our feelings, and support one another. Research indicates that acts of kindness boost our own immune systems, too.
Although it may seem bleak now, this crisis will eventually pass. As Arne Sorenson, CEO of Marriott, noted in a message to employees: “Together we can, and we will, overcome this.” He faced the reality of the situation while maintaining hope for the future.
As Jake rests in isolation, battling fever and fatigue, I hold onto that optimism. Yes, these are dark times. Many are suffering, facing financial uncertainties, and worrying about the future. We all grapple with our fears, striving to keep them in check while safeguarding our families.
Yet, humanity has an incredible capacity to endure. We find strength when we dig deep, trust ourselves, and extend support to those around us—especially the vulnerable. These are not ordinary times.
This year has already been tumultuous for my family, having faced the aftermath of Australia’s bushfires in January. Life’s storms reveal aspects of ourselves that calm waters never could. It is during these challenging moments that we discover reserves of courage and resilience we never knew existed.
Instead of embarking on a speaking tour in the U.S., I now find myself navigating a different kind of week, isolated at home with a partner battling COVID-19 and children practicing social distancing.
This is not how we envisioned spending this time—schools are closed, vacations canceled, businesses shuttered. But turbulent times amplify our need for courage. Acknowledge your fears; they are valid. However, don’t let them consume your thoughts.
Instead, choose to embody the courage you wish to see in others. Be generous, compassionate, and present for those who need assurance, connection, and laughter—even if it’s over a virtual glass of wine.
You must be braver than you feel. In seeking certainty within yourself, you may uncover new strengths. “Let me not squander the hour of my pain,” wrote Rainer Maria Rilke. Let’s use this time to connect with our shared vulnerability and recognize the fragility of our humanity. We can utilize our talents, time, and relationships to weather this storm and emerge stronger.
We owe it to ourselves and one another, especially to our children who are missing out on cherished experiences. No matter your beliefs, take a moment to lean into faith that adversity carries the potential for greater rewards. Together, we can cultivate seeds for brighter days.
So breathe in faith, breathe out fear. Breathe in faith again. As Abraham Lincoln stated during challenging times, “The dogmas of the quiet past are inadequate to the stormy present.” Let’s rise to this occasion and lift each other up. Our future depends on it.
For additional insights, check out this resource on pregnancy and home insemination, and for more perspectives on navigating these times, you might find this blog post helpful.
Summary: This article recounts the challenges faced by a woman as her partner tests positive for COVID-19, highlighting the importance of connection, resilience, and support during difficult times. It emphasizes the need for courage and community in the face of adversity while encouraging readers to embrace hope for a brighter future.