It was March 24th when we learned that the first Iowan had died of COVID-19. Back then we were hopeful that we could slow the spread of the disease and turn the tide of the pandemic. Maybe even that in our state, with a small population and wide-open spaces things would be different. It's been five months and Iowa has passed a grim milestone. More than 1,000 Iowans are dead from COVID-19. Yesterday we learned that the first Iowa child, 5 years old or younger, has died.
Another thing this virus has taken from us are the rituals we take comfort in when someone dies. Funerals are different. Gatherings are dangerous. Hugs can spread disease. The tracking of the virus and recording of statistics has turned lives into numbers. Political divisions and the stigma of disease have left many in silence.
Host Charity Nebbe speaks with those who lost loved ones, and others who've spoken with many mourning lives lost to COVID-19.
Rick Brewer produced this story as part of the America Amplified initiative using community engagement to inform and strengthen local, regional and national journalism. America Amplified is a public media initiative funded by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
Guests:
Michael Lensing, co-owner, Lensing Funeral and Cremation Services in Iowa City
Amy Buckendahl, daughter-in-law of Donna Breese
Ryan Foley, news correspondent, Associated Press
Anita Jung, daughter of Dorothea Jung
Mitch Fick, morning anchor, Iowa News Now
John Stahmer, son of Mel Stahmer