I just saw this article on the BBC website. Coronavirus has killed four members of the same family in New Jersey.
Grace Fusco was 73. She, and six of her adult children, fell ill after a larger family gathering of up to 20 people. One of those children, Rita, was only 55 and had no underlying health conditions. The story doesn’t mention the ages of Carmine and Vincent, who also died.
It’s a tragic story – and one those over here who are vowing to keep working no matter what should bear in mind.
Having said that, I appreciate that many instructors are in terrible positions. I’m fortunate. inasmuch as I have now have an income from a private pension from my previous employer (hack, spit) of around £250 a week, and a lump sum in the bank from that which I wanted to save, but which could keep me going for several years if I needed it (hopefully, I won’t). And I have no mortgage or debts.
Many instructors – especially the younger ones – have nothing. They have mortgages, car loans, and other debts, as well as kids to feed. Driving instruction is not a high-paying job in the first place – even at best it is ‘adequate’, but you have to have been doing it for years and built up a financial buffer for that to matter.
My primary (selfish) concern is not passing COVID-19 to my parents. My secondary concern is not passing it to my pupils who have Downs children, who are pregnant, or who have vulnerable relatives. Money comes in third.
I can understand the dilemma many find themselves in. I just count myself fortunate right now.