Self- quarantining is definitely not chillaxing television watching heaven that people imagine it to be. You may wonder what exactly happens when you are quarantined more than 14 days or what it’s like to be quarantined for incov.

I am assigned as the coordinator of the Basilica of the National Shrine Children’s hospital.  Part of my job is to mingle and be exposed with different people and patients and to acquire or be infected with a virus is a huge possibility. Before the lock down was approaching, our parish Priest, Fr. Joey Maborang told me to undergo self- quarantine. There would be no escape, I accepted it. I told myself: it’s better to be safe than sorry. He told me also that I’ll be quarantined at CMT convent under the custody of Sr. Gloria Alonso, mother superior. They explained to me that quarantine is used to keep someone who might have been exposed to Covid19 away from others. Quarantine helps prevent the spread of disease that can occur before a person knows they are sick or if they are infected. People in quarantine should stay home, monitor their health and follow directions, they added. Since it was my first time, its mixed feelings of joy and curiosity about what life awaits. Meals and room to stay were provided by the sisters.

I could say that my first week was smooth sailing. I enjoyed reading books and praying rosary every day. But things started to get worse the following weeks. My mind went blank. I desperately tried to grasp the seriousness of the situation. What if…? What if I’m positive? Do I have any chance to go back home if ever I’m positive. I kept on thinking of my family, continually asking myself how I would face God if I died at that moment. I was quite sure I was not afraid to die but I asked God not of corona virus. The days passed by, I realized I have to go through so much pain, so much fear and anxiety, and an awareness that we could die anytime, any day. It was days like this that reminded me that it were worth investing in me. Then, there would be days when I would just rest and reflect on what I have to be grateful for because, when there is so much fear around, it is important to focus on the love all around. Yes, I was surrounded by loving people of God no matter how big fear gets, love is deeper still. No matter how things may be, there is something to laugh about or talk about; the past that lifts you up and those around you. The simple sisters, every time they gave my food, brought me on strike and gave me reason to fight. Also, the thing I’m most grateful for out of quarantine, I have had more time to spend with God, feeling reborn spiritually.

To Fr. Joey, Sr. Gloria, Sr. Sole, Sr. Vima, and all CMT sisters, words alone can never truly express my sincere and heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been in my life to give me love and encouragement throughout my purification. I’ve been blessed beyond measure; it’s encouraging to know that I definitely have a community of love, care and support that has embraced me, risking their lives in my quarantine.

ANDRES FERNANDEZ