I had planned to publish a St. Patrick’s Day themed blog this week, however, I don’t think many of us will be venturing outside for green beer, parades, and parties this year. So instead, I’ll be writing about how I plan to survive a potential quarantine with a chronic illness because I know just how worrisome it might be.

Here’s My List:

Here are just some ways to plan for a potential quarantine:

Stock Up on Meds

If you are like me and take like a zillion medications, then make sure you’ve got enough pills to get you through the next couple of months. Call your doctors, make sure you’ve got a refill, and if you need to, have someone pick up the bottle for you.

Make a Reading List

I’ve seen plenty of lists floating around on social media on things to do when you’re bored during the quarantine, and many of the items on those lists include things like going outside, going for a hike, and exercising. This might not be an option for people with chronic illnesses, so I am proposing a work-out of the mind… reading!

Here’s what I’m planning on reading:

1. The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
2. Stoner by John Williams
3. Frankenstein by Mary Shelley (it’s my favorite!)

Play With Your Pets

Now is a great time to really get to know your dog, cat, gerbil, snake, or bearded dragon. Throw a ball, dangle a shoelace, and snuggle up with your favorite little buddy all day long if you want to! Your pets are just happy to have you home!

Prioritize Self-Care

Now that you’re home 24/7, you’ve got plenty of time to give yourself a little extra TLC. Take a bubble bath, wash your face, pluck your eyebrows, grab your weighted blanket, light a few candles, make yourself a cup of tea, and relax! Dedicating some much-needed time to you is a great way to replenish those spoons!

Limit Screen Time

I don’t know about you, but my social media feeds are FILLED with stories and news articles about Coronavirus. Of course, the memes are pretty funny, but still, all of this exposure can be anxiety-provoking. Take a break from your phone, from social media, and from the television — your brain will thank you for it!

Know the Facts

There’s a whole lot of misinformation out there about the COVID-19, so be sure to check your sources before you share anything. The CDC is a great place to get all the information you need to know about the virus.

Here are a few key facts that the CDC has shared:

• Diseases can make anyone sick, regardless of ethnicity or race.
• For most people, the immediate risk of becoming seriously ill from the Coronavirus is thought to be low.
• Someone who has completed quarantine or has been released from isolation DOES NOT pose a risk of infection to other people.
• There are simple things you can do to keep yourself and others healthy (i.e. washing your hands regularly, staying home when you are sick, and covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue.)
• You can help stop COVID-19 by knowing the signs and symptoms: fever, cough, shortness of breath. Seek medical advice if you develop symptoms AND have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19.

Binge Watch Some New Shows

People with chronic illness already know all to well about the joys of binge-watching new and favorite TV shows. You’ll be glad you’ve got those monthly Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video subscriptions.

Here’s what I’m planning on watching:

• The Office (for the 1,000th time)
• Parks and Recreation
• Big Mouth
• The Witcher (no spoilers, please!)
• The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel

Avoid Being Too Isolated

Social distancing is extremely important for stopping the spread of Coronavirus, but that doesn’t mean you should cut off communication with everyone! If you are immunocompromised, there are plenty of ways to keep in contact with your loved ones: make a phone call, hop on Skype or FaceTime, and text on a regular basis.

So, there you have it! Stay safe, stay healthy, and wash your hands!