A Daughter and Grandaughter Worries about Her Loved Ones

The Faces of Quarantine-One Virus Many Faces: Laura Ruetz

At first, I was one of those who didn’t take this pandemic seriously. Then the numbers from China and Italy started to roll in, and I began to pay attention. I have a fair amount of anxiety anyways but usually find that facts and information are the best way for me to combat that. Sort of a “know your enemy” type of thing. Now, after listening to all the facts, I am scared, and my anxiety is overwhelming.

My grandmother is 95, and my mom is 74, and I am terrified of them getting sick. I also have been compulsively reading up on every news article, but it’s only making my anxiety worse, but yet I still feel like information is the best way to manage it. As an introvert with social anxiety, not much has changed for me. I’ve had events and outings canceled, so I am feeling a social disconnect. But I’m grateful for social media, as it helps me stay in touch, so I don’t feel as cut off.

My job is in the financial sector, so I’m still going to work as we are a small office. We are cleaning and disinfecting regularly and being cautious. I live by the beach, and the shut down isn’t being taken seriously. The beach and pier are pretty full. Tourist shops selling t-shirts and souvenirs are still open. People…