COVID-19 Stories, Health-Related

Palm Beach County residents were asked:

Please tell us a story about how the coronavirus has impacted your life.

Some responses were directly about a health-related or medical experience (e.g., a stay in the hospital, safety precautions, etc.). These responses are shared below by date (newest to oldest). Click ZOOM IN to learn more about the resident and how they interpreted their response.


Mar 19, 2020

Financial crisis

It has severely cut the hours I am able to work. I do not receive pay for the hours I am not working. Therefore, it’s caused a lot of anxiety and stress about how bills will be paid long term. I’m wondering how I can get another job in this time of crisis. Even if it means working at McDonalds.
Mar 19, 2020

Confusing,Confusion, Confused.

My family has changed its dynamics since the virus was considered a problem for my community. My son, who was working in a foreign country was forced to leave. Although he had planned to relocate to another country, all borders have been closed, so he is coming back to the U.S.A., and plans to be quarantined for awhile. Of course, he will live with me, his sister and my grand-daughter. This will put a strain on our monetary resources, but, unlike others, we do have a place to live at the moment. At the same time, his brother’s job has been suspended, untill virus complications end. This means that he too, will have no income and will look to his family for help. We are already aware of food pantries, but where do we find additional beds and furniture, etc. for those who may be moving in with family. At the same time, the virus has caused disruption in my grand-daughters schooling. I am not pleased with having to figure out what 5th grade work she is expected to complete. I went on Google Classroom, found her teachers, but no explanation as too which assignments to complete, etc. I did ask her and she could not tell me either. Very confusing, very confusing. Also, my grand-daughter does not have a lap-top. How is she expected to do her work without that tool? Oh, did I add that I have a person with substance abuse that I am responsible for and that I am on Social Security. Indeed, it seems like neither myself nor those around me are handling these disruptions well. However, my family, at least, are doing the best we can under trying circumstances. The information I am getting on all levels, except for the information from the City of Boynton Beach and my doctor, have been confusing at best. But, I realize that this is new, and that everyone is working hard with new territory, but I guess the most frustrating thing is the uncertainty. Finally, We have noticed an increase of drug sales in our neighborhood. I am concerned that job losses and human fear will increase drug problems in my community. So any pointers on how to handle unsettling change will be very helpful.
Mar 19, 2020

Mom & Twins…Netflixing & Chilling

It caused my kids and I to spend more time together at times we wouldn’t.
Mar 18, 2020

How Coronavirus Impacted My Life

The Coronavirus has impacted my life in multiple ways. My daily activities as modified. I have to take precaution everywhere and with everyone. My work life and family life has changed. They way we shop has changed. I no longer eat out or visit places with large crowds. My business has even taken a impact. My daughter is a high school senior and her senior year has been ruined, no Grad Night, Prom and possibly graduation may not take place. The lines at the stores are long and many of them are out of supplies and its difficult to obtain items such as wipes, toilet tissue and other necessities for the home. Food items are limited as well.
Mar 18, 2020

Work or Kids?

I’m home with my kids a lot, trying to work and keep them on a schedule that’s close to what they would do at school. It’s really hard to do work and pay attention to the kids and I find myself getting really short and unpleasant, yelling a lot. It’s hard to let go of what I want to accomplish at work but I can’t do both and the priority should be me being present with my kids.
Mar 18, 2020

Figuring this coronavirus out

I am working fulltime from home and simultaneously caring for my child, my pets, my home. I am in need of household products but the stores are packed with people and short on supplies.

About the Project | Story Gallery | How Residents Interpreted Their Stories (Data Visuals)