Some Iowans may be returning to their normal routine a few months after COVID-19 began its spread through the state, but those with disabilities are forced to remain vigilant against contracting the virus.
In April, Raccoon Valley Radio got in contact with Guthrie County native 27-year-old Katelyn Sheley and her mother Buffy Louk about how COVID-19 has affected their lives. Sheley, who is diagnosed with autism, lives in one of Opportunity Living’s group homes in Carroll, and she shares how she currently feels about the pandemic,“I’m ready for it to be over.”
Louk says their situation has improved since April, as Sheley can now visit each of her parents’ homes. Sheley has kidney issues, and the group home staff strive to protect her and other residents, so she is not allowed to go into any stores, restaurants, or similar businesses; and the residents and staff are constantly practicing good hygiene, such as wearing face masks. Louk shares why she is being cautious of the virus every day, “I’m gonna wear the mask no matter what, because I may not get it but I am around Katelyn and I’ll do it for her protection. I know there’s people who totally believe masks don’t help, but I really don’t want to take that risk with Katelyn getting sick.”
Sheley hasn’t been able to return to her job, but her home coordinator Mollie Mortensen says they are keeping residents engaged with van trips to local tourist locations, activities, and more. Mortensen says she doesn’t want the disability community to be forgotten during this difficult time, “I don’t think people realize that they’re able to go, go to the store and do those kinds of things. We’re here, and we’re not going anywhere, just for van rides, which is also confined. So everybody’s locked down here, there’s no going to the store and going out, and it’s tough on them.”
Sheley and Louk continue to pray that the pandemic diminishes soon, so they can someday travel to Ohio to visit one of Sheley’s sisters. In the meantime, she’ll keep staying home, while staying connected with friends and family through letters, FaceTime, and even a mask-protected haircut outdoors.