This pandemic perspective is part of an occasional series of reflections by Metro Detroiters. We welcome submissions at admin@deadlinedetroit.com. The writer, a registered nurse, works at Henry Ford Health System's main hospital in Detroit as a pulmonary medicine specialist.
By Laurie Parkinson
Detroit has been slammed by this bug and we're hurting. I'm sipping my coffee right now, filled with anxiety. I'm wondering what this day will bring, and wishing I could stay home and quarantine like a "non-essential" worker.
But I'm about to walk into the fire again today. Things are crazy at work and every day it gets worse. More sick, more dying. I cry every day, but I dry my tears and vow to get through another one. One day at a time, that's all I can do. That's all any of us can do, really.
I'm not gonna lie -- I've thought about quitting, staying home and staying safe, but I can't do that.
Laurie Parkinson: "I'm going to fight like hell for all of you." (Courtesy photo)
Detroit is in my blood. I was born in the city, my brother was a DPD officer and dad worked the steel foundries. I've always loved Detroit, even when others didn't, even when outsiders bashed it. I love this city, and the people in it. I always have, and always will. I've taught my sons to love the city, and I've shared many happy memories with them here. Detroit is in their blood too.
Detroiters are a special breed. We have huge hearts and nerves of steel. We are tough, and we are fighters, and we will overcome this challenge like we've overcome so many others. I believe in the spirit of Detroit, the spirit of the people.
It's you that I'm getting dressed for today, it's you that I'm drying my tears for and shoving aside my fears for. I love you, Detroit, and I'm going to fight like hell for all of you. We're going to be OK. I believe that.
Stay safe at home. I got this.
