The highest number of new cases in Canada in one day: 2806

 

TODAY,

The highest number of new cases in Canada in one day: 2806 In march we were ambushed. This second wave feels very different, doesn't it? We faced a virus that we knew nothing about. It had barely been identified as a virus when it reached Canada. Borders were closed. People raced home. We were locked in and terrified: Essential workers only, schools closed, grocery shopping a true test of our courage. I was swabbing peoples noses in my parking lot and our COVID Assessment Centre barely had enough swabs to test 25 people a day. We had no understanding of what the virus did to the human body or how and there were no treatments. People were mildly ill, then suddenly severely ill and then gone. Those dark days are over and they will not return. We have come too far, we are better prepared and more educated. Clinics have the ability to test thousands across the province every day. Who is ill differs now too, with mostly a young, resilient population spreading the virus. But hospitalizations are slowly increasing. The virus is beginning to appear in long term care centres. One hundred and twenty four homes now have cases. We were ambushed but now we are on guard. We cannot let our guard down. Our testing system is overwhelmed and the best way to allow it to regain its ability to rapidly test and trace contacts is to not become infected, not spread the virus, not need to be tested. It is becoming a challenge for me everyday to assess people with coughs and colds and try to determine if they need testing. A runny nose on it's own is not likely to be COVID and does not require testing. A complex of symptoms like extreme fatigue, fever, cough and a loss of sense of taste and smell is more likely to be COVID 19. I will divert your attention just briefly. Many charities are in crisis and many have had to close their doors. As you know Bracelet of Hope is near and dear to my heart. We are hanging in but we cannot hold our usual fundraising events this year. Every year at this time, I cycle 50 km to raise funds for Bracelet of Hope. It used to be 100 km but I stopped that silliness when I reached my mid-fifties. 'Mid-fifties', when did that happen? Usually by now I am much more prepared but, over the summer, I spent an hour a night defeating hornworms which then led to a ridiculous tomato crop which then led to a stupid amount of time spent canning. I blame it all on COVID 19. My goal is to raise $30,000. This year, my beloved board is joining in the cycle. We can't hold events but we can ride and so, INSTEAD OF GATHERING with family and friends this coming Thanksgiving Weekend, we are hitting the roads of Guelph to raise funds for the people we love so much in Lesotho. Spokes for Hope: Cycling together- apart for Bracelet of Hope: If you are able, help us to not only stay alive during COVID 19 but to thrive. Help us support our foster kids in Lesotho, our income generating activities and our mobile health unit We love these people. We have devoted our lives to standing in partnership with them. There are more than 17,000 followers of this page. Can you imagine if each follower donated $25? Not doing that math tonight because I am too tired but...... Sponsor here if you can: https://www.facebook.com/donate/2707157766204565/1892121307596677/ Charitable receipts available! Let the ride begin!!!! Anne-Marie Please share

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