We know that so many folks are going through a challenging time right now. If you’d like to hit pause on these emails while this crisis is at its worst, just let us know here.

Team, I reached out recently to ask how you all are doing—after all, social distancing shouldn’t mean social isolation. (Here in the McGrath-Henderson household, we’ve actually welcomed in a new, non-human tenant: Bella the wild turtle, who was brought into our backyard and temporarily stayed with us.)

After reading your stories, I wanted to say upfront: Thank you for the effort so many of you are making to protect your neighbors and yourselves—and an especially huge thank you to the people who are sewing and donating masks! I also enjoyed hearing how folks are passing the time at home: lots of yard work, baking, painting, cleaning out the basement, even going (solo) fishing. (Here at home, we’ve been doing a lot of arts and crafts lately. We even built a volcano, which the kids made erupt with some baking soda and vinegar.)

That said—not everyone is able to stay home. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to those of you who are performing essential services, including being on the front lines at grocery stores and in hospitals and health care centers. You are the heroes of this crisis, and you deserve acknowledgment and support.

Another big takeaway for me from reading your stories: A single act of generosity or support truly makes a difference.

In my world - food equates to love much of the time. Since I've been unable to [do] much, last week I made 35 mini-loaves of banana and zucchini bread. Very close friends/family (not even a handful) came and got theirs. A few I delivered out the arm of my vehicle and the rest I left on my front porch for friends who wanted them. Made a lot of people happy - which makes me happy. —Glenna

For the past several years, as an elder confined to a wheelchair, I've gotten used to being alone... yesterday (Easter Sunday), though, the simple act of receiving an online Easter card from a couple of my dear neighbors brought me to tears of comfort. It was such a happy feeling, and it lasted all day. —Sue

I’d like to shake the hand (after this is all said and done) of the person in Lexington who simply wrote:

It's been hard, but we will get through this together.

A final note: Many of you also mentioned the great job Gov. Beshear is doing to help us navigate this crisis—I agree! And this is a reminder that elections have consequences, and that even in times like these, we need to keep working to elect leaders who put people first.

If you’re able, please consider chipping in to help do just that come November.

Thank you,
Amy