A Staggering Blow

Our 92-year-old family patriarch is unexpectedly taken from us by the virus late last night, shortly before midnight. After testing positive for the virus, remaining hospitalized for a few days, and being released from the hospital pronounced virus-free, he developed “complications” and after several visits to a local rural Louisiana hospital, his heart failed.

Just a short time ago he was living at home independently, driving his car safely, and practicing social distancing. We are told he lived a good long life, as though duration justifies his death. Regardless of age, he did not deserve to have his life cut short by a global pandemic.

The individual responsible for spreading the virus to our father, grandfather, and great grandfather faces no consequences. Social media silently deliver condolences. He was our chief cheerleader. He was responsible for our being here. We cannot be with family to celebrate his life. We cannot travel safely. We mourn alone. Our faith is shaken to its core.

We now view everything from a different perspective. Concern over the virus quickly escalates to fear. This is personal.