While months of coronavirus-induced lockdowns, social distancing, masks, and isolation have proven challenging diversions from the status quo for almost everyone, perhaps there is no group more beleaguered by the struggle than those who survived the Holocaust.
Most have few surviving family members, their elderly age renders them extremely vulnerable, and the fear and loneliness can trigger a tidal wave of trauma and uncertainty.
So how are some survivors getting through the ongoing pandemic?
For Georgette Hancock, who describes herself as being “84 years young” and lives alone in Hillsboro, Ore., days are spent walking her rescue dog, Pepper, and focusing on “staying as calm as can be.”
“I have to stay strong and handle things. I am tending to my art, painting, and crafting,” she said. “But I have been reflecting on my memories, as this pandemic brings it all back, very much so. This virus is all about the covert danger that we face, and it is painful and cruel. So I must stay alert and keep a safety disposition.”
