“At my workplace we had one case of COVID in the spring of 2020 and then a huge outbreak at the end of October. We had a total of 92 resident cases, 68 recovered and sadly 24 passed. There was one day where we lost five residents in 24 hours. It was heartbreaking.
We had 63 staff cases, all of which recovered and returned to Tabor. I personally did get COVID and I would say that I’m now completely over it.
When staff started coming back to work after having COVID, we really encouraged each other. If someone was feeling tired, we urged them to take a break. We said that we’d work together to get everything done.
For those who came back after having COVID, it was really hard to wear a mask full-time at work. When you’re having issues breathing, a mask is really a big pain .
I feel that we are a closer group at work now. The people that may have had disagreements a year ago, for whatever reason, are a little more patient towards each other now. We're helping each other out more, just because we've been through such an ordeal together.
One of the things I do miss about pre-COVID is the connection with our seniors.
For months, there was no contact - no hugging or touching the seniors we do care for. They didn't always understand what was going on, and they were scared. It was difficult not being able to comfort them with a hug that they desperately needed.
I'm going to be very happy when this is over so that we can show the residents how much we really care.”
Allison, care aide, part of the health care team