This article is one in a series of stories featuring real experiences, thoughts and feelings from young people living in Cardiff during lockdown. To see the other stories, please click here.
Q1. During lockdown, what is the most important thing that you’ve learnt about yourself?
I have learned that routine is vital to my mental and physical wellbeing, as well as self-care and recuperation. This was cemented for me when I had appendicitis and it was important that I’d get the mental and physical rest that I needed. I also value my face-to-face interactions with friends a lot more, as well as community.
Q2. What has been your most memorable moment during lockdown?
My most memorable moment as of yet has to be my appendicitis, which came after graduating from my degree. I noticed that something wasn’t quite right, and my fears were right upon going to the hospital. It was rather scary, but more than anything it was quite a relief because I’d done the right thing and knew that I was in safe hands. One effect that the COVID-19 had on it was that I couldn’t have visitors, so it was kind of lonely, but I messaged my mum and friends most of the time to keep them updated so it was somewhat pleasant.
Q3. Explain what things that you miss most from your life before COVID-19. How will you not take them for granted in the future?
Certainly, I miss being face-to-face with friends and also learning from other people around me in-person. I will arrange to hang out with my friends more and do a wider variety of things with them. I was rather solitary before the lock down due to being autistic, but I’d like to show my appreciation to the people who make me feel less odd and embrace the me behind my survival mask. I also really miss clubs!