We hear all the time that everyone is in this pandemic crisis together. And we are. But some people are in it more than others. While things are difficult for individuals forced to stay home, just imagine what it’s like for medical personnel who spend their time on the front line.
Not only are they away from their loved ones but they’re also putting their lives at risk for the sake of others. We don’t know about you, but to us, that sounds like a hero. Especially when there are little children involved, not getting to see mom or dad can be traumatizing.
One father understands this
Working in the field of medicine, Jared Burks doesn’t get to see his family very often. He works at a high-risk hospital in Jonesboro, Arkansas, one of the places COVID-19 has hit the hardest. Due to an increased level of exposure to the virus, he has to stay away from home, including his loving wife and small child.
It’s hard on his entire family
Jared might be busy trying to save lives but his family is always on the forefront of his mind. Along with his beautiful wife, Alyssa, he has a one-year-old son named Zeke. Making things a little more challenging — the hospital where he works is a one-hour drive from where his family resides.
Daddy’s coming to visit
Occasionally, Jared gets to see his wife and son. But even then, it’s not often enough and the visits are held behind a glass door. That means there’s never any personal interaction. No hugs…no kisses. Instead, they look at each other through glass. It’s the only way they can share their love, for now.
Such a sweet moment
On one of their rare visits, Jared’s wife captured a photo of him and his son. It was such a touching moment, she decided to share it online. As soon as people saw it, they were touched. Many of them decided to pass the photo along so others could see the sacrifices doctors and nurses are making.
She included a caption with the photo, which read, “Look who we finally got to see today! Not going to pretend that I didn’t bawl like a baby when he left to go back to work. We miss him, but we are doing what we have to do. Count your blessings. That’s what’s getting us through this!
Alyssa nailed it
Her comments couldn’t be any more accurate. Jared is just one of thousands upon thousands of other people who are currently separated from their families due to job responsibilities.
With fear rising of spreading the virus and mandated stay-at-home orders, some individuals don’t have a choice but to stay away from the people they cherish.
She shared other sentiments
On her Facebook page, Alyssa had even more words of wisdom. “The biggest challenge for us specifically has been the time we’ve had to spend away from each other.
With no clear date that we can move back into the same home together and safely again. There are just so many unknowns at this point, and that is the most challenging part.”
Sticking together
She goes on to say, “We are facing this together. There are sacrifices being made by medical professionals and their families every day, and this is one of those sacrifices that some of us are making to help slow the spread of the virus.
This is a time to listen to authorities
Every city has done a great job of keeping their communities informed. It’s critical that people pay attention and follow the rules. If you’re told to stay at home, other than to get essentials like food and medicine, don’t go anywhere.
People’s actions either help or hurt
Remember, every time someone chooses to disobey their city’s orders, not only do they put themselves at risk but also many others. Young people, pregnant women, older individuals, and those with a compromised immune system, they can’t fight the virus as well as others.
The other thing to keep in mind is that by going out and about means people like Jared and his family have to stay apart from each other even longer. One bad decision can have a devastating impact on hundreds of lives. On the other hand, doing what you need to do, like this family, can help save lives and prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Lend a helping hand
If you want to make a difference, there are many options. The most important is as we mentioned, stay at home. But you can also grab items from the grocery store for an elderly neighbor when you do buy essentials. Or perhaps take them a couple of meals so they don’t have to worry about cooking.
If you sew, tons of individuals have created pages on Facebook, asking for assistance in making masks. Then of course, there are all kinds of organizations that could desperately use financial support. One additional option…foster or adopt an animal. During these trying times, many dogs and cats are stuck in shelters with very little human interaction.
Be a part of the solution
Like Jared and Alyssa, and even little Zeke, now is a perfect time to sacrifice. Find ways to be part of the solution instead of part of the problem. If everyone pulls together, we’ll come out on the other end better for it.
If you’re one of those still going to work each day, millions of us applaud you. Everyone…stay safe and make smart decisions. Before doing anything potentially careless, think of this family and the many others working hard to help.
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Source: Fox10Phoenix, Facebook
