Star date: 21st March 2020

THE SALFORD KINDNESS OF STRANGERS AND HOW I KEPT LONELINESS AT BAY

Last week, Alice, one of our elderly citizens, wrote an article for the Salford Star on how she wouldn't wait for Boris Johnson to act and was going into self-isolation. How is she getting on and how does she feel about the state of the country?

Here Alice writes about her experiences of isolation and how she has kept loneliness at bay...

Full details here...

It's just a week since I wrote to tell you that I was going to self-isolate and not  'Just carry on' and get caught up in Boris's 'herd immunity' or die!*

Since that time, there have been some radical changes. Many people have been plunged into anxiety and desperation, with the possible loss of jobs and consequent loss of income, being added to the existing fear of catching this strange virus.

Television pictures of Italy, so close and familiar to many, coping with its sudden increase in sickness and deaths, have been frightening. Whilst a couple of weeks ago some people were saying 'It's just a fuss about a cold!'. Now we have seen hysteria and panic-shopping, with many more elderly and vulnerable self- isolating.

The most important change has been that of the Government. It has suddenly caught up with the experts' advice, adopting a policy of containment and spacing.  Unfortunately, testing, which is such an important part of this policy, is still inadequate. Testing kits, like protective clothing, are in short supply, so statistics on infections can't be monitored and many nurses are working unprotected. There is now a frantic rush to provide these essentials. I need not repeat the criticism of ten years of austerity. Earlier preparation was needed. China gave us an amazing model.

We are now surprised, in fact astounded, to see the Conservative Government acting like socialists. Yes!  Money is suddenly 'growing on trees'! I do want to say I am really glad to see these changes; glad that other political parties are working with the Government and also working with the TUC. What a civilised move.

Combining brains and skills is the way to get the best solutions and the best support. 
No more cynicism. Let me tell you the positive story of my week's isolation. I am truly amazed! No day has gone by without a text or phone call offering help. 'The kindness of strangers' is very comforting.

My box at my front door has received unexpected gifts including books, a bunch of daffs, bags of tomatoes and, this Saturday, a copy of The Guardian! My sons ensured that I have plenty of healthy food , without denuding any super-market shelves.

How have I kept loneliness at bay? I have phoned or emailed friends in this country and abroad. As I have five grandchildren and four great grandchildren and many friends, this has kept me busy. I have not felt alone. I am now looking into my old phone directory and picking an old friend at random, and giving them a friendly ring.

I have drawn up a simple timetable covering things I should do. This includes walking around the garden with some simple exercises to stop myself getting stiff. Now I have my Big Project. I have ordered seeds and filled every yoghurt pot and plant pot with soil and started planting my future flower garden. When this 'plague' is over, I hope to have a beautiful display of flowers and shall invite my friends to a garden party...

Alice

To read Alice's previous article - click here