As the pandemic continues  all residents of care facilities are still, after six months,  left alone and isolated. We are asking the Govenor and  DHEC to allow at least one family member to be granted ‘Essential Caregiver’ status allowing us to continue to be part of the care team as we were prior to the pandemic. We would follow all CDC guidelines the staff follow, including Testing and PPE.

Our loved ones are left alone without any family to help with the essential care that facilities,  regardless of good intent, just cannot provide. No one cares more for our loved ones than we do and are the most cautious regarding their health. My Mom, and so many other loved ones, are declining from isolation and loneliness. We, and they, are losing valuable time that can never be replaced. No one should have to die alone.

We ask the Govenor to sign an Executive Order allowing this status.