DAY 55

Small, family owned businesses have been the backbone of this country since the beginning. I have heard many reports over the last week or so of small businesses that are closing up for good because of the pandemic. Business owners who have been just managing to keep operating are unable to keep going in the current climate. I am saddened for these owners, their employees and the communities that are made richer by their presence.

We finally got the payroll protection loan that we applied for on day one. So many businesses applied for the loan that the initial money ran out almost immediately. I do not understand how so many large corporations were granted this money. I was under the impression that it was to keep small businesses going. The money is to cover payroll, rent and utilities for two months.

I am on the board of a non-profit organization, The Healing Nest of Mid Michigan, that serves women in treatment for cancer. We normally meet  once a month and offer massage, nail care, facials and many other services to our clients. We of course had to suspend our services for the last two months. Now we are discussing the possibility of closing for good. This is not because of a lack of money, but the danger of bringing these vulnerable women back together in this new era of social distancing. I am heartbroken over the thought of this. My daughter was one of the first clients that benefited from this organization. When I was diagnosed with breast cancer I was welcomed into the "nest" for treatment. After my daughter died I continued to volunteer, greeting women as they arrived and helping to serve lunch to them. Miss Nine has also helped out on several occasions, serving lunch and cheering up the clients with pictures she draws for them. The women who volunteer there are crazy and beautiful and I love them so much. They give so selflessly, fundraising and serving in the most wonderful ways. My hope is that we will be able to resume at some time in the future when this virus is no longer such a threat.