Did you change your spring break plans because of the virus? From what to what?

Yes, I worked from home

How did you feel when you were informed the remainder of the semester would be held online?

I have adapted, but miss my work family.

Where will you be living while courses are held online? Is this a change from usual?

There is no change in my living arrangements.

How has the virus (and the precautions taken to prevent it spreading) impacted your daily life?

My mother passed away on March 26, 2020. It was hard enough, since she is my best friend, and I have been caregiver for almost 8 years. But, trying to deal with her death was a challenge. The hospice nurse wore gloves and a mask and couldn’t touch or console any of us. He said that he normally hugs, but we kept our distance. The funeral home could only allow 10 people at a time in the chapel and therefore, we chose to hold a celebration of life for her later. Two of my brothers could not travel to be here for her internment. We used the phone to let them watch. We were not allowed to have a service for her at Barrancas where she was buried. We were allowed to stand across the street while they took her casket from the vehicle, placed it in the vault, and then into the ground. We were then told we must leave. We were not allowed to leave flowers on her casket or with the staff to place on her grave later. Now that I have her death certificate, I am having to file paperwork with her annuities, life insurance, and banks either by video conference or make a special appointment (and be screened ahead of time). It has been quite a challenge and truly something I never expected to experience.

How worried are you about getting the virus?

I do worry a little bit, because I have been out to take care of all the funeral and death arrangements. I am trying to be cautious.

Do you know anyone who has gotten COVID-19?

No.

Are you staying in? What are you doing to pass the time?

We are sheltering in place and I am working from home. After work, I am sorting through my mother’s possessions. However, no one is taking donations at this time. I am not sure what to do with all her “stuff”.

Are you going out? Where do you go and what is it like?

I go to the grocery store when needed for medication. It is strange. I have gone to the funeral home and the bank so far.

What is giving you hope and/or strength right now?

I rely on my faith.

Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about what you’re feeling or experiencing right now?

I am attaching a photo of her casket and the flowers my son made to go on her casket. Not many floral shops were delivering. I am thankful for his talent. My family was sad that someone who touched so many lives (she was a month shy of 98 and was grandma to ALL) did not get the service they though she deserved. Thank you for a chance to share our story. To get this photo, we arrived early and were allowed to go into the room only 2 at a time.