My Toddler Survived Cancer. Then Came the Coronavirus. – The New York Times

Do the tiny, everyday things that help you feel better

My wife and I joke that weve been actually training for this pandemic for the past year dealing with Nusaybas cancer. We stopped socializing, abandoned work projects, read science and medical papers, and placed hand sanitizers, masks and gloves throughout the house. Were used to obsessing over any fevers because Nusayba is immuno-compromised.

With life rapidly spiraling, we took ownership over the daily routines we could still control. You can declutter and clean your house. The simple act of making your bed, brushing your teeth, wearing clothes and choosing your breakfast gives you a sense of autonomy.

If youre up for it, take time to cook or eat your favorite meal. The experience will provide a moment of comfort, a delicious taste you savor more during hardship. If you believe in God, then still maintain your prayers. Also, try to stick with the daily push-up routine, and continue reading the newspaper. Reunite with beloved sitcom characters on The Simpsons, flip through an old book or graphic novel, chain saw demons in Doom, or watch Goodfellas for the 12th time.

All of these seemingly mundane habits and activities will keep you spiritually, physically, creatively and mentally alive for the marathon and it will be a marathon.

A crisis like cancer helps us answer the question: What truly matters when we are stripped overnight of our comfort, wealth and plans?

Kindness does. Its the only way our humanity will endure during this crisis. After all, along with medicine, it was a strangers kindness that helped Nusayba survive.

I recommend focusing and investing in people and relationships. Make a list of your elders, your mentors, your friends, your family members, all those who helped you along the way. Spend a few minutes a day to call them, catch up, reconnect, and make amends if you must. A five-minute call can unburden a lifetime of regret and heal wounds.

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My Toddler Survived Cancer. Then Came the Coronavirus. - The New York Times