In the spring of 2020, the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, significantly challenged American society and the world. Unlike any health crisis in modern history, this illness precipitated a dramatic shutdown or complete halt to nearly every aspect of daily life and societal institutions. Suddenly, we had to figure out how to deal with the profound effects of a worldwide illness whose lack of treatment, devastating consequences, and general fear and uncertainty dominated the headlines and everyday discussions. If one dared to venture out of their home, they were urged or required to wear a mask, sanitize hands and surfaces, maintain a 6-foot distance from others, and implement other precautions to help “flatten the curve.”
