When danger threatens, citizens turn to the state for protection and guidance in much the same way that villagers in bygone ages sought sanctuary within the walls of the Lord’s castle when enemies attacked. This is the least we should expect of the State in return for our taxes and allegiance.

During the pandemic, we were failed. This is Billy’s story.

A Lockdown picture – “Mask” – it’s one of a few.

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In June 2020, Billy lay motionless in a hospital bed. He was 38 years old and until a few days before he was fit and healthy, living his best life with his family. He had just been promoted at work and the future looked rosy.

Despite being hooked up to a ventilator, despite the skilful care, and constant monitoring by exhausted doctors and nurses, he was suffocating. Billy’s body was attacking him from the inside.

Before he died, the pain became unbearable. His liver, kidneys, brain and finally his heart failed. But his family didn’t know any of that because they were forbidden to sit at his bedside. He died alone.

That was the reality of COVID.

C19 doesn’t discriminate. It’s neither good nor evil, unbound by any moral code. It takes no heed of age, creed, colour or sex. Or, how good and humble you have been. Or how fit and robust you think your body might be. It pays no heed to underlying health conditions. It doesn’t care.

C-19 ignored the question that burned on the lips of Billy’s 12-year-old son – “Why did it have to be my dad?” It is deaf to the rallying cries of propaganda journalists, contemptuous of clueless politicians who beat their political drums while ignoring the rules they, themselves, imposed  – “We are proud of our achievements.” Really!

Only 60,000 had died up to June 2020. Many, many more would succumb.

Neither the ritual hand-clapping of a grateful nation nor politicians’ hand-wringing could ease the sorrow of Billy’s family.

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Picture: “Mask” – By Rod McRiven. Sold.

© Rod McRiven 2024