This month, Taylor, one of our designers, shares with us his own and partner’s experience of COVID-19.
As a designer there are many observations I could make about all sorts of things; but none, would be relevant to the health crisis we have all faced. However, having lived with a respiratory nurse throughout the pandemic, this has given me some interesting insight. I have come to learn that selfless people like Amy, believe they are here to help others, no matter what, even when they can no longer take care of themselves.
When I learned that Amy’s ward had been converted into a COVID ward, I knew it was only a matter of time before both she and I would eventually fall ill.
My experience was unique, we recognised the symptoms from both our work; and so we were fortunate enough to know what to expect. Nothing could have fully prepared us for the sleepless nights, the fevers, the agonising aches in my lower body, the onslaught of dry coughs and fatigue Amy endured. All of it was difficult.
What struck me was the variation in our respective symptoms, how we both seemed to be affected in different ways, and how the illness would hit us in waves.
Although it was rough, we had it much luckier than most. Working from home, meant I was able to return to work before Amy did; and in doing so I was fortunate enough to continue learning about COVID-19. As I was designing supportive materials to improve healthcare professionals COVID-related prioritisation skills; and informative digital games for general audiences.
Working with the healthcare professionals, who helped develop these materials, was an eye opener to the COVID 19 crisis. Whilst also hearing how, despite what they were enduring, Amy and her colleagues wanted to return to the ward, as soon as possible, so they could help others.
This made me realise how truly incredible and precious our health and social care staff are. I feel proud to have been able to aid them and help increase awareness about the coronavirus.