As members of the Pennridge community, we all care about the well-being of our friends and neighbors. We have all felt the devastating effects of Covid-19. While we may be sick of the pandemic and adjusting to change, it is not over yet. 

Recently two of my family members tested positive for Covid-19. It was spread throughout a meeting in the community. They were very sick, almost four weeks later and they are still feeling the virus. At 50 years old both of my parents are luckily in good health, not everyone is that fortunate. “The worst part is the exhaustion, small tasks take so much energy, even after the 14 day period of quarantining.” said Kristin Kern. The virus creates flu-like symptoms including fevers, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, body aches, headaches, loss of taste and smell, and more. Symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and loss of senses can be long term.

From December 2nd to December 15th there have been 6,877 cases of Covid-19. Cases are rising and families are losing loved ones. Social distancing and wearing masks is more important than ever. As of December 16th there have been 270 deaths due to covid. Hopefully you don’t know someone who has died of covid, but it is not impossible. It is easy to detach ourselves from realities that don’t effect us, but remember that those 270 people were loved by their families and friends. “A woman from the same meeting, who also got Covid, is in critical condition on a ventilator,” said Bill Kern.

This year has not been easy. School looks nothing like what it did before, people have lost their jobs, social interactions have been limited. The good news is that the year will end, and the virus will be under control eventually. The sooner we all buckle down and do our part the sooner that can happen.