In 2020 a lot of lives changed, we watched as the world pivoted. Restaurants pivoted people started working from home and I lost my job. Before I even had a chance to look for another option, we got a call from the hospital that our paraplegic mother had been admitted.
In that instance, Mom needed consent care during a pandemic. Family was the only option; I was the option. That same year, my brother lost his life to cancer. Like most, COVID sheltered my lack of energy, and even more caretaking sheltered my lack of energy. A woman who once worked out every day and loved makeup and shoes found herself wearing pajamas to the grocery store, without a stitch of color on her mask-covered face.
I was able to hide my emotions, my lack of purpose, and my hijacked life. So when everyone else started going back to work and finding life without social distancing, it became more intense. The lack of reason to put hard pants on. I tried to take on side jobs to find some purpose, but I found myself stretched so thin.
We lost Mom suddenly, and the dust is just settling. I am still working on what’s next for me. I would love for you to come on this adventure with me. Caregiving in any form can be consuming. Taking time for yourself can bring on guilt. Community is the only way, which is why I love fashion!
