Being a resident physician in the time of COVID has been interesting, to say the least, but it’s been even more challenging as a new mom. I still look forward to going to work each day, especially because it means getting to see my colleagues I wouldn’t otherwise see due to social distancing. I do, however, live in constant worry about what I’m bringing home to my new little family. I decontaminate thoroughly after each shift, adding about 30 minutes to my routine before I’m able to spend time with her. It can be really hard to avoid snuggling her right away when I get home, but I know it’s in her best interest that I shower and change clothes first. She’s the one that I think about the most during all of this- her pictures keep me upbeat and positive while I’m away at work, and finally getting to hug and kiss her at the end of the day makes some of the stress and negativity fades away. I hope that one day she’ll be interested and want to talk to both of her parents about what it was like to work during the pandemic.

Jillian Murphy, MD / Rachael’s First Week Volunteer
Indiana University, Department of Emergency Medicine