“Grief is not linear. We will be grieving this pandemic for years to come.”
Social worker days are filled with managing crisis calls. The team prioritizes tasks as they come in. Tackling issues that require immediate attention and working to ensure patients get connected to the most appropriate resources in a timely manner. Rent and utilities have been a struggle. “Many of our patients do not qualify for government funded programs, so we are continuously searching for other funding sources in order to avoid eviction or disconnection of services.” “I have worked closely with two Mothers’ who have lost their husbands due to COVID” said Nikki. “They also contracted COVID. In a matter of seconds, they became single moms and widows. “I witnessed them acknowledge their grief and heartache, lean into the support offered and become fiercely resilient. They attended an eight week support group where they were able to share their stories of hurt with other grieving adults while also celebrating the life of their husbands. It was a beautiful and humbling experience to be part of.” One of the biggest things learned from this pandemic is “Grief is not linear” said Nikki. “We will be grieving this pandemic for years to come. Our patients will forever be affected. However, when grief is discussed openly and with empathy, it allows patients to become resilient with the knowledge they are not alone. Because of this, they trust us and our patients continue to call and request assistance when needed. They share their stories of heartbreak and personal setbacks. This allows us to use our voices to stand up for their social, economic and racial inequalities and to provide sound, compassionate care that is culturally sensitive.
To read more inspiring stories please visit oneworldomaha.org
ISSUE 1 2021 I 9 I OneWorldOmaha.org
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