SLO retiree’s life came to ‘a screeching halt’ due to coronavirus. Here’s what changed

My life just came to a screeching halt. In a matter of days, nearly every activity that I enjoy or defines my time has been systematically deleted from my calendar.

It all began on March 12, with an ominous email from the San Luis Obispo International Film Festival canceling this year’s event due to concerns over the coronavirus outbreak. I was looking forward to seeing one particular movie by a local filmmaker. But that was not to be.

Next, UCCE Master Gardeners pulled the plug on all activities and events for at least the next two weeks. I’m a key player in the training class and that, too, suddenly stopped.

Shortly thereafter, my every-decade-or-so-colonoscopy got put on hold. (Hey, not every activity was a favorite, but I was eager to get it over with. That was followed in rapid succession by closures affecting volunteer work in the gardens of Hearst Castle, yoga classes, swimming at SLO Swim Center and the YMCA where I work out.

Now, I can’t go out of my house due to San Luis Obispo County’s shelter-at-home order.

I feel like I’m permanently on hold without knowing when the next associate will be available to assist me.

This isn’t the first time that things have been upended.

I vividly remember the chaos following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and the uncertainly and fear about what would happen next. But then, as soon as the dust settled, we were encouraged to resume our routines, spend money and take trips.

Next was the Great Recession of 2008, when banks closed and hard-earned savings suddenly vanished. Again, the ship was righted and we sailed into a new normal.

The COVID-19 pandemic is brand-new territory. No one can predict how today’s crisis will unfold. So we shelter in place, wash our hands until they’re raw and do our best to keep anxiety on a short leash.

I’m certainly not complaining. I’m well aware that my personal situation is as good as it can possibly be.

I have a comfy home to hunker down in and a large garden that provides both food and distraction.

My husband and I have had pleasant times together and look forward to exploring online yoga classes. We’ve recently retired, so we’re not concerned about our jobs.

My grown children are well and safe. I cherish having enough time to read.

Social isolation isn’t an issue, either. I’m one text away from my support system. I’m in close contact with my siblings and kids.

Yes, I miss seeing their shining faces in person. But for now, this will have to suffice.

I’m also relieved that, for the most part, my tribe enjoys good health. Some of us are at higher risk of infection because of our age, but we’re generally free from other complicating conditions.

What we don’t know is how long the situation will last.

Will we be postponing events in April and May? Or perhaps into June and July? The Magic 8-Ball doesn’t say.

It’s up to us to deal with the current uncertainty. Let’s do the best we can.