WOSU's Letters from Home collects stories about day-to-day lives during the coronavirus pandemic. This week, we heard from Ohioans who shared their experiences and stories.
Larry Davis
I’ve survived by doing my artwork. I drew 353 different pieces of art on 1,220 thank-you cards that were sent to frontline medical workers. I mailed them to essential workers in stores, hospitals, fire stations, the local pharmacy and my local post office.
Over a period of time, I drew and erased pencil lines, inked my pencil lines, and then scanned and printed the cards in batches. I folded and stuffed the envelopes – all while wearing gloves and face mask. I didn't want to take any chances to those whom received the cards.
I had contacts of friends who placed the cards into the hands of those essential workers and frontline workers throughout the country (Maryland, New York, Tennessee, Texas, and West Virginia). Some, I mailed directly to the local places, and hand delivered to places like my local Kroger and RX location. I sent them to Licking Memorial Hospital.
It was my way of being able to at least show that I care about what frontline workers are doing for America. Being medically disabled and stuck at home most of the time due to lack of money, when the stimulus money was made available, I figured this was a good way to give back to those who were doing more than me.
So yeah, I kept busy and hopefully brightened someone’s day at the start of the virus. Too bad my money ran out. I think I could've done more if it weren't for that.
Anonymous from Columbus
Opportune time to reflect upon myself as a human being, and as a member in society in 2020.
Erin Garrison from Toledo
It’s been a lot of things but mostly exhausting. I work as a bereavement coordinator for a home health care and hospice company. So many people have been robbed of final moments with their loved ones during this pandemic. In addition, they’ve been forbidden from using the traditional tools that we normally have at our disposal to deal with their grief.
Funerals have been canceled or changed to just small numbers of people. Graveside services are the norm now. People are discouraged from touching, and human contact can be so important in healing. It’s been heartbreaking to witness.
I do my best to let them know that things will return to something that resembles “normal,” but I can’t promise that. The whole thing has been a lesson in patience and maintaining faith in my higher power.
This week, Letters From Home continues asking the question: How do you feel about schools reopening?
Answer this question using the form below, and try to keep below 1,000 words. Your response may be edited for length and clarity.
