#SOLSC24
“Mom. I am going to get this virus. It’s just a question of when,” my eldest daughter, Julie, calmly tells me.
“Don’t expect me for Passover. I won’t expose you and our family to the virus.” Julie states with authority. Julie is an attending gynecologist at a huge, busy urban hospital. She is the one called into the emergency room when a pregnant woman arrives. She is the one patients see at the clinic who have no insurance. She is the doctor on the maternity floor calmly reassuring patients as they are scared and panicked about birthing a new life. She is the doctor who delivers six, seven or more babies during her 24 hour on-call shift when complications keep her working in the hospital into the next day. Too often, she’s the one up at night worrying about her patients. She’s continually exhausted; mentally and physically. “Julie, please wear a mask at work,” I pleaded with her yesterday. “Mom, you don’t get it. I was given one non- reusable respirator mask that was fitted for me. The hospital keeps them under lock and key. They don’t have enough of a supply. I have it in my bag for an emergency,” she tries to reassure me. I wonder, isn’t every person she comes in contact with at the hospital a potential threat? What is considered an emergency? Once someone is coughing within six feet of her it will be too late for her to grab her mask and shove it on her face. What if her skinny, exhausted body has to fight this virus? Does the worrying ever end?
9 Comments
Jill Bless
3/15/2020 06:15:45 am
Wow, what a post. I feel your worry. Your third paragraph was perfect in its description of your daughter's role. I can understand the complexity of her job and the impact she is making. I am thankful for her sacrifice and praying for her safety.
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Teri Cote
3/15/2020 07:39:12 am
I can only imagine your pain and worry. Thank you to all the care givers! Heroes all!
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3/15/2020 09:10:48 am
Your daughter not only has the stress inherent in her job, now she has the new stressor of Covid-19. And you, as a mom, share in this stress and worry. The questions towards the end of your slice, add to the sense of uncertainty and worry. I am grateful to your daughter and all the health care professionals working through these times.
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3/15/2020 09:59:08 am
I am so thankful for women like Julie. Doing the hard and scary work. Thanks for sharing this.
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3/15/2020 10:02:12 am
Oh, no, the worrying never ends. Your daughter, all doctors, nurses, medical staff - they are the true heroes in our world, on the front lines of this infection. What a blessing she is! Thank you for this powerful tribute, for this "window" into her life (and your worries). May she stay healthy!
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3/15/2020 03:34:23 pm
What an insight you have given us. Worrying about our children never ends, but when faced with a situation like you and your daughter are facing .... I can only imagine. Stay strong.
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Donnetta D Norris
3/15/2020 04:01:07 pm
This thing is so uncertain. I am so grateful for those on the front lines (as it were) who continue to help those that are in need of medical care, whatever the care. Your post has made me realize there are so many more people out there who are at risk. I thank you and your daughter for her service.
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Michelle
3/15/2020 04:34:15 pm
Hugs and prayers for the both of you. She is a warrior!
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Eva KaplanSea glass, found on beaches, is naturally worn and smooth by tide and time,. As a wife, mother, Bubbe, teacher, reader & life-long learner, and of course, sea glass collector, I aspire to use writing to help me understand myself and the world around me. Archives
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