By Mia Maysack, PNN Columnist

This pandemic has broken my heart for multiple reasons, aside from the obvious ones. Knowing so many are displaced, unemployed, and losing things they've worked their lives for.

Being aware of the impact, watching the number of those infected or lost rise, as well as repeatedly witnessing countless people flat out ignoring the simple rule of staying home, has exposed multiple layers of the broken foundation that our country is built on.

If we don't address these issues, it's my belief that this crisis is only just the beginning.  

Many believe that “healthcare is a basic human right." Though I couldn't agree more with the ideology, why is it this statement carries more weight when proclaimed by healthy people, yet chronic pain patients beg regularly to be seen, heard, treated or even believed?

The changes in the healthcare system in response to the coronavirus have been astounding. Suddenly telehealth is in vogue and physicians are returning phone calls. The AMA wants the rules waived on opioids and other controlled substances. And complimentary healthcare resources and advice are being released on endless platforms. Does it really take a pandemic in order to do right and join forces?

So be it.  Instead of remaining perturbed, I've chosen to rejoice over the fact these things are possible. And I definitely plan on remembering this when the immediate threat blows over. Understanding, flexibility and convenience should remain part of our healthcare system when we re-navigate our new normal.    

Those who are healthy have been complaining about boredom, not being able to do what they want, feeling isolated and overwhelmed by changes they've been forced to make.

Welcome to everyday life for people living with chronic pain and illness!

Many who've tested positive for COVID-19 have recovered, which is something I’m grateful for -- though personally, I am unable to relate to.

There's deeply rooted disappointment in our government. The fact it took so long to create an action plan, on top of the fact the main hang-up revolved around saving the economy, not people. I suppose that isn't anything new, but it gifted us with the exposure of national shortcomings and has been a wakeup call.

There’s a saying used in politics that originated from Winston Churchill: “Never let a good crisis go to waste.”

There’s not much that is ‘good’ about this, other than the fact it is demanding we grow as individuals and come together, cultivating a greater comprehension and sense of awareness. If handled properly, many lessons can be learned from the crisis and we can implement changes in everyday life as we know it.

As people living with chronic illness or pain, we have proven that resiliency is a very real part of who we are. Remembering that can assist in calming our nerves and help us focus on what matters most.  

Toilet paper alone won't save us.  

Mia Maysack lives with chronic migraine, cluster headaches and fibromyalgia. Mia is the founder of Keepin’ Our Heads Up, a Facebook advocacy and support group, and Peace & Love, a wellness and life coaching practice for the chronically ill.