The Shirleys, a Jamaican family currently stationed in Wuhan, China, just gave us the positive vibes we needed.
As you probably know, Wuhan is the epicenter of the coronavirus outbreak and home to 87% of coronavirus cases. The Shirley family opened up about their experience living in a city that has been on lockdown for the past two months, and what they’re doing to safeguard their physical and emotional health.
In the video, shared by Jamaica’s Prime minister Andrew Holmes, the family of four sit together to speak about what their new normal has become, and how remaining positive can make a world of difference.
“We want you to know that in spite of the worldwide pandemic of the coronavirus, there is light at the end of the tunnel, and there is hope,” says the mom, Eileen.
The family says that despite having to stay indoors 24/7, they’ve found activities like board games to keep them occupied. They’ve also been consuming a traditional Jamaican immune-boosting drink with garlic, ginger, hominy and apple cider vinegar. They also practice good hygiene by washing their hands frequently and avoiding touching their face.
The Shirleys’ oldest son, Cruz, reminds everyone that the rate of recovery is skyrocketing and predicts that, “soon, there will be no more coronavirus cases in China.”
The youngest of the Shirley boys, Chayse, sent an uplifting message that sent chills through our spine. “This was war can be won, and it will be won if everyone plays their part,” he says in the video. “We can limit the spread by taking personal responsibility for our safety and obeying the instructions that the government and authorities give us. This is everybody’s fight.”
Amen to that! I don’t know about you, but that word just lifted my spirits all the way up.
ESSENCE is committed to bringing our audience the latest facts about COVID-19 (coronavirus). Our content team is closely monitoring the developing details surrounding the virus via official sources and health care experts, including the World Health Organization (WHO), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Please continue to refresh ESSENCE’s informational hub for updates on COVID-19, as well as tips for taking care of yourselves, your families, and your communities.