How My Life Was Personally Altered by the Pandemic
The pandemic has had a profound impact on my life, affecting me personally in multiple ways. I contracted COVID-19, and I've lost close friends, including my brother, to the virus. Even my daughter tested positive for the disease, disrupting our family's normal routine. The severity of the pandemic has left a significant emotional and financial toll on my life that I may never fully recover from.
From Panic Attack to Innovation
It all began when I experienced a severe panic attack in February 2020. This prompted me to take immediate action by designing an N-100 mask in March of the same year. The mask utilized a large HEPA filter for inhalation and two smaller ones for exhalation. I was convinced that this simple solution could have eradicated the pandemic within a month. However, even Stanford University's finest could only create an N-95 mask that looked somewhat ridiculous. Reflecting on how a virus that could have been managed with such a straightforward solution caused such widespread panic is both disheartening and amusing.
A New Way of Life
The pandemic was, paradoxically, a blessing in disguise. It allowed me to implement a plan I had been working on for over a decade: transitioning to remote work. I had always envisioned a job where I could be productive anywhere, without the need to physically go to an office. March 2020 marked the day I packed up my things from my cubicle at work and never returned. I now work full-time remotely, enjoying the benefits of no commute, no rush hour, and no need to search for a parking spot. My routine is simple: wake up, make coffee, scratch the cat, and start working. I find that I don't miss anything about the office environment and consider it a welcome change.
The Great Personal and Family Losses
One of the most significant challenges the pandemic presented was the loss of loved ones. My brother was among the early casualties, and the loss hit me hard. Witnessing the passing of my brother and the subsequent precautions we took to stay safe became a cornerstone of our family's lives. It also led me to confront the reality of how many people around me are 'anti-science morons,' a term that encapsulates those who disregard health guidelines and put the lives of others at risk.
Painful Absences in My Life
The pandemic has also meant missing out on many cherished activities and experiences. For instance, I missed attending numerous symphony performances and dancing tango for two years. These losses are felt deeply and serve as a constant reminder of the sacrifices we've all made during these challenging times.