Cancer in the time of COVID

When Adeline was first diagnosed, we were five weeks into isolation. There were some things that benefitted her: she had not been exposed to anyone or any germs leading up to her diagnosis, everyone around her in the hospital was wearing masks, and she had the flexibility to complete her school assignments digitally, and when she felt up to it. But there are so many layers to having a critical illness in the middle of a global pandemic. Only one parent could be with her in the hospital, except for in 30 minute chunks. Crawford couldn't see her and she couldn't have any other visitors. And as the support came pouring in from family and friends, we still couldn't do the one thing that we needed on a basic human level- hug and be held by those who love us. Check out the risk level for hugs. Moderate-high. Simply hugging someone would risk Adeline's (and our) health. 

As restrictions began to be lifted and people started to resume more "normal" activities, our family remained in isolation. In a non-COVID time, Adeline (with her diagnosis) would be able to see friends, go out in public, and be as close to a normal teenager as possible. Now, the risks are too high. She remains isolated at home. Our high-energy, healthy eight year old son remains isolated at home. Our family remains isolated at home, for (going on) SEVENTEEN WEEKS, with no end in sight.

Today I met my California sister in a Starbucks parking lot in Buda. That's because she is now my TEXAS sister, and she lives a mere two hours away from me. But due to the ongoing severity and increasing cases in our state, I couldn't even hug my own sister. We had to settle for a masked conversation with our cars pulled side by side. I know that every family gets to make decisions that they feel comfortable with regarding activities, travel, and masks. Just remember there is a sweet teenage girl you know (who is already grieving a lot) who must remain in isolation until we as a society can figure this thing out. If you don't wear a mask for yourself, please, wear one for Adeline.