Chronicles of COVID-19

Title

A Nurse, Rural Cork

Contributor

A Nurse, Rural Cork

Subject

COVID-19 (Disease)

Coverage

Ireland; Cork; 2020s:

Date

14 April 2020

Language

English

Creator

Cork Folklore Project

Rights

Cork Folklore Project

Description

GENERAL PHYSICAL LOCATION RIGHT NOW

Kinsale

USUAL LOCATION

Same

Q. 1 STAGES

From not knowing much, to realising this is going to affect us in long term.

Q. 2 EVERYDAY ROUTINE

Workwise, trying to get into the healthcare workforce again, but are very frustrated as some agencies are asking for me to print out forms, scan them and send back. Kinsale’s library and online centres are closed, so can’t do.
It was my birthday yesterday. I had to spend it on my own due to social distancing. Couldn't even go for a walk as my favourite place Charles Fort is 2.9km from where I live.
Re general activities; there is only so much cleaning I can do. I like walking, but there are so many people have no idea or keep to the 2m restrictions. Very frustrating for those that do.

Q. 3 GROUPS

Live in a small residential area where the majority of residents are elderly and are having to cocoon. They feel like virtual prisoners. So, did I when I had to self -isolate for nearly 3 weeks waiting for my test results.

Q. 4 WAYS WE TALK

I find most people don’t want to communicate in person, preferring to do so online. I feel sorry for those of an older generation who don’t know how to, or haven’t got the opportunity to do so. I have even spent days when I haven’t spoken to a real person. People are scared.

Q. 5 COMMUNITY RESPONSE

Lack of social distancing. Sunshine makes me happy, but where I live there is no garden, so unless I go out for a walk, I am forced to stay indoors. Found local doctors have been brilliant. Found staff in shops/supermarkets usually very friendly and helpful.
Conversations with friends limited, but sending lots of jokes to each other which lightens the mood and helps us to keep connected.

Q. 6 THOUGHTS AND PREOCCUPATIONS

Having to go back to work because I can't sort out retirement issues. Wondering if I am going to be thrown out of my accommodation when my money runs out. Miss my family overseas.

Q. 7 SIMILARITY TO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE

No Response.

Q. 8 CHALLENGES AND COPING

No Response.

Q. 9 THE FUTURE

Some aspects of society have shown the way and been supportive. Some areas like welfare etc. overburdened leaving some scared for their immediate future. People in the know are concerned that this is going to go on well into the summer/autumn, with the potential to keep recycling. The aged care sector will be decimated.

Q. 10 IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE THAT SPRINGS TO MIND?

No.

Q. 11 IN A NUTSHELL

We know viruses like this, Spanish and annual flu will keep mutating. It will be advisable to recognise this and make contingency plans. No just rely on reactive measures, especially with our ageing population with their associated co-morbidities.

age

51-69

gender

Female