Alysa Aakers, a respiratory therapist at Ivinson Medical Center, cares for COVID positive patients in Laramie.
“This experience has been chaotic. Though I am grateful to be a helping hand during this pandemic, it is also exhausting and mentally draining. It’s tiresome to worry about every simple action,” said Aakers
At every step of process of conducting her job, Aakers had to make sure that she could not accidently infect anyone.
“Like, did I wash my hands long enough? Did I touch any body part that was not protected by PPE while I was in a COVID positive room? Am I being cautious enough? Should I change clothes before walking into my house and are my shoes infected? That aspect hasn’t lessoned throughout this entire experience” Aakers said.
Unlike Aakers,some Laramites have chosen to not take many precautions to reduce the spread of COVID-19 by wearing face masks in public areas.
“Majority of Laramie has been extremely understanding and supportive. Though, I’ve also seen many people who are not compliant with rules and regulations because this has yet to affect them personally. I’m still in awe going to the grocery store and seeing bare faces. With a mask mandate in place, there are still people who just can’t follow directions,” Aakers said.
Despite this, Aakers has seen some of Laramie adapt and come together since the very beginning of the pandemic.
“The Laramie community has been great throughout the pandemic. Various offices had donated PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) in a time of need. We received many generous food donations,” Aakers said.
The main reason why Aakers is taking so many precautious comes from the fact that she is one of the few people on the frontlines caring for people that are infected.
“The majority of COVID positive patients require oxygen. Oxygen requirements vary. Some patients get by on a few liters of oxygen while others are intubated and placed on a mechanical ventilator,” Aakers said.
While this is a once-in-a-generation pandemic, it is something that healthcare workers like Alysa will never forget.
“It’s hard to understand the tragedy until you’ve experienced it firsthand. This has yet to become a reality for many people. COVID-19 has been a heartbreaking, tragic virus for those affected. As a community, I think it is important for everyone to do their part,” Aakers said.
