Hi there. I understand your concerns.

I recently broke my finger and shattered my heel. Today I had to go in for surgery that could not wait because they did not want them to heal in place.

My surgery was done in an outpatient facility. Is this possible for you? There is less exposure and a smaller area for them to keep clean.

Also, I’d recommend making , or, having someone make you a mask. They should be able to supply you with special cleansers. It might only be sample sizes but it is something to get you through.

I hope this helps.

Just because you go to a hospital or outpatient surgery center doesn't mean you will come into contact with anyone with this mild flu. remember that 98.7% of those that get the virus get better and survive. Most that have the virus don't even know it. I would trust that you won't get it and go on about your life. there is no amount of worrying that will protect you from the virus. Getting a mask if you want won't hurt. You should be able to ask for a mask and get one when you get to the medical center.

I had ECT on Monday at the hospital and it went off without a hitch.

I didn't die, the gun jammed twice when years ago abroad a military officer pulled its trigger holding it up to my temple right by my right ear, Secouya. The second time I heard his trigger pull coming I was sure I was a goner. So I wet my pants before the hammer even had a chance to fall.

A near death experience like that 'is not the same as your real death, but it did give me PTSD and bring me here to DS PTSD. Today I'm afraid of this pandemic because it killed my 2nd best friend on March 13th. She was like my big sister ever since 1983, so death hit close to home with her for me. I miss her. I just had a good cry.

Thank you Doo, your comments help. Thor2008, thank you for your experience, the reason I am afraid of this virus is because every time I catch a cold or get the flu I end up with severe respiratory issues ...pneumonia, severe bronchitis and given that this virus causes respiratory problems it is a concern for me.

Mujicaptsd, I am so sorry about your friend. I can relate to your experience. My PTSD is from a combination of events dying being a part of it and also includes being a victim of a shooting incident and stabbing someone to survive an attack.

Thank you all for your experiences.

Do what you can to help, decide if it's worth the additional exposure risks. It sounds to me like it has really been beneficial to you in the past.

Listen to relaxing music before and during, and try to remember you are doing everything you can to help yourself.

If you go, enjoy being out. Notice things. Watch. Smile. Breathe. But be careful... keep hands to self, distance, etc.

It's okay to fear for our lives and be cautious. We just can't be immobilized by fear and miss out on LIVING..... Live.

I listened to a podcast yesterday about facing fear during this pandemic, Secouya, and it helped. I found it through iTunes. You might want to google for one like it for yourself. Sure hope your epidural today goes ok. Sending you an extra helping of daily strength for this day.