Behind the mask I am busy but grateful

Mail clerk Betty watched the bustling hallway where she works become very quiet when the pandemic hit. “I miss seeing some of the regular faces and having conversations with people.” Many of the staff around her had changes to their schedule or role, but her function remained constant. “I feel very fortunate as I continued to come into work daily, which kept that part of my life on schedule.”

Betty, who receives about 2500 pieces of mail from Canada Post each day, noticed a change in the mail she was receiving due to the COVID-19 restrictions on personal visits. “It has been very busy with more cards, letters and parcels coming in for residents and patients. It’s nice to have a part in making sure these items reach their loved ones.”

With her own father turning 81 later this year, Betty can relate. “My dad lives by himself and my husband and our two sons make sure we keep in regular contact with him.  Making more time for phone calls and touch bases. We worry about his safety and his mental health.”

Despite the hallways being quieter, Betty has seen tremendous encouragement from the people around her at work. “To see the support from fellow staff and coworkers who stopping by and ask how I’m doing is pretty amazing. There has been a bond created through all of this and I appreciate those bonds now more than ever.”

Betty has even felt the appreciation outside of work. “There have been countless times, leaving work for the day or going for a walk, where someone has said thanks for coming in to work. I feel so grateful for the people in my life, and for my health.”