It has taken me a little bit of time to process this, but I feel the need to share what’s going on with my family right now. If you don’t care, that’s fine, keep scrolling. The big ending of this story is to please take this virus seriously. A thread. 1/x

Rhett (now 22 months old- and 30.4! lbs) woke up really sick yesterday. Lethargic, super high fever, coughing, congested. I called his pediatrician as soon as they opened. We had a virtual appointment with his pediatrician via Zoom. 2/x

Due to his fever being so high and his symptoms, she wanted to check him out in person. His doctor’s office had a tent set up outside of their office for drive-up check-ups. His ears looked a little inflamed, never thought I would pray for an ear infection, but here we are. 3/x

She gave him an antibiotic. Then she said what no parent wants to hear right now, “ At this point, before any antibiotics kick in for his ears, due to his other symptoms and fever we are assuming Rhett has COVID-19.” 4/x

We were then told that Rhett does not meet the criteria for testing. They will not test mildly symptomatic patients. In order to be tested, Rhett would have to have both fever and significant respiratory distress and/or an underlying history of asthma or immunosuppression. 5/x

None of us can get tested, even though it’s assumed that we all have been exposed at this point. Our whole family is planning to self isolate for the next 2.5+ weeks. We have masks that are handmade. I cried a lot yesterday, but today I woke up with my game face on. 6/x

Rhett is doing fairly well considering, he’s such a tough baby— last night his fever went up to 104.6 which was scary. I don’t share this story for your pity or for attention, but to let you know just how serious this virus is. 7/x

We have done everything possible from hand washing to maintaining a safe distance from neighbors out walking, disinfecting mail and groceries, stripping down and showering after returning home. Please send your prayers up for him and please, STAY HOME. 8/end