Deb, I know you've shared pieces of your story over the past several months, but reading it all in one post reiterates how amazing you are. Even though we are just strangers sitting at a keyboard, I think (almost, because there has to be "that guy") everyone would agree that you are caring, have tenacity, and never play the victim - you take what life throws at you and you do your best with it, while trying to remain as positive as possible while getting through it. I hope the journey to the Canucks winning the Stanley Cup 8 weeks from now is the start of a period of positive events for you
COVID has had the opposite impact on my work life. I have worked at my current employer for 29 years, and the 4-5 months have been the busiest I have ever been. We are a national retailer, so my work like has been spent revising sales and production forecasts for the next 1-12 months....
Born in East Van in 1970, the Canucks have been my team since the late 70s when i would sneak a transistor radio into bed to listen to the games (8pm start back then!)
I have found the return to play to be better than expected. Like you, I held by hopes in check until the puck dropped, especially after seeing what was happening as baseball started up (I know they are travelling, etc, but it did serve as another reminder that this is so tenuous)
First game I watched was Game 1 vs Min, and found by period 2 that I had adapted to the backdrop, lack of fans, etc (though I am still not used to whatever that animal is on Friedman's face)
IF the Canucks are eliminated, I will have much less interest - I'll watch a game if I am home and not busy, but I won't go out of my way. A daily check in on the scores will be enough most days.
Enjoy the game today - keep cheering for the team! Positive thoughts for your personal future as well.