by Arlyn E. Lukban
Lifestyle/Online Editor

Youngest bro Jv took Mama to the hospital because she woke up with body pain. She could hardly move. The pain was all over her body. All over her body!

Red flag because body pain is one symptom of COVID. As protocol would have it, she was required to have an antigen test done. Mama refused because first, she didn’t relish the thought of being swabbed, and second, she was confident she doesn’t have COVID.

Personally? I felt she didn’t have it. She was checked by a doctor she met for the first time.  And the doctor was just being careful. I get that. For us at work, if you have even just one of the symptoms – something as simple as a cold (sniffles) or a cough – you won’t be allowed in the building.  This is a valid point.  The signs and symptoms vary with every variant.  And everyone takes COVID seriously, as we all should.

After much convincing, Mama said she is okay to have the test done.  A few seconds later, she would decide otherwise. With many of us breathing down her neck – nay pressuring her into getting the test – she gave in.  She had it done.

Lo and behold, Mama is NOT pregnant 🙂 Test came out NEGATIVE. Thank You, God!

The family remains lucky. Save for me and nephew Justin being victimized by COVID, no one else got it.  At least no one else here on this side of the globe.  The Bristol, UK side got it, and unlike Justin and I, they had symptoms that were not mild at all.  Still, we say Thank You, God.  That too, has passed.

Many people are not as lucky.  Despite taking utmost care by keeping a safe distance, wearing protective gear and staying home, they still get infected.  I guess it is a case of “you get it when you get it.”

COVID is real. COVID is here. COVID is still very much here.  And who knows how long it will be.

Most of us have already been fully vaccinated. Others, almost.  But even being fully vaccinated doesn’t exempt any of us from being infected by the virus.

This is the second year that we welcome Jose Mari Chan and the (in)famous “Whenever I see girls and boys…” ditty while on lockdown.  We could only hope this would be the last time we celebrate Christmas under COVID circumstances.

They say you have to go through something in order to get through it and move onward stronger.  As we wallow in this turmoil of uncertainty, let us look after each other.  A simple “how are you?” speaks volumes. Reach out to family and friends.

Things are looking up, looking bright.  Thanks to the Angeles City government, the key bridges have been beautifully adorned with Christmas lights that spark hope from within us.  They bring out the positivity that all of us need to get through the difficult times.  Like these bright, beautiful lights, let’s try to be the beacon of hope for each other.

Let’s continue being very careful and vigilant. Practice the basics – the vital basics! Always have alcohol in tow. Wash your hands. Sanitize. Keep those face masks on; even go double mask, for good measure.  The face shields are another story.

We can stay in touch despite maintaining physical distance.  Call. Text. Let us be there for each other.  Let’s look after each other. Check on each other. Always. All ways!  Onward stronger!