Two weeks ago from right now, I took my dad to the hospital for complications from COVID-19. I wasn’t allowed inside, I could only drop him off at the door. It was the hardest thing I have ever had to do in my entire life-to leave my dad alone in the hospital.

I am not saying this for attention or sympathy, but two weeks later he is slowly but surely on the road to recovery. My mom was able to move back in today for the first time in 5 weeks. Recovery for dad and I won’t be swift and easy, but we will get there.

I share this because I want people to know that this is real, it is dangerous, and it happens fast. I love my dad with everything I have, so please wear a mask. Social distance. Wash your hands. Be aware of your risks and work to mitigate them.

It doesn’t just affect you, it affects everyone around you. No one, and I mean no one, should have to drop a loved one off at the hospital alone.