Eden Walson, France
In France, Walson has witnessed first hand how Europe has been impacted by the outbreak.
April 2, 2020
Eden Walson (middle), smiled for one last U.S. photo at the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport in 2018 with her two host families: the Conways (left) and the Johnsons (right).
Italy, which can be considered the forefront of the COVID-19 pandemic, has reached nearly 11,000 deaths as of Monday, March 30. About 11 hours north, in Paris, France, Cannon Falls High School’s former 2017-18 Exchange Student, Eden Walson, has had a front row seat to Europe’s new day-to-day lifestyle. In some senses, the COVID-19 prevention steps taken by France and the U.S. are parallel; in other aspects, America and the European country’s coronavirus combat plans are perpendicular. Walson’s perspective further accentuates how this pandemic extends far beyond Minnesota and far beyond the U.S.
As schools, restaurants, and bars began closing here, the same could be seen in France. Grocery stores, pharmacies, and healthcare facilities remain open while schoolwork and (in Walson’s case) college work has moved online. Initially, things were a-okay for Walson. For the 20-year-old, the new found time wasn’t all that bad and allowed for a more flexible schedule, filled with family and hobbies. Now, however, France’s government has tightened the reins, providing not even an inch of wiggle room.
Unlike in the U.S., anyone found out and about (whether outside for a walk or for grocery shopping) needs to have official paperwork, stating where they are going and why being outside of their home is necessary. If someone is caught without documentation, the accused will be fined or, after multiple offenses, face jail time. From Walson’s point of view, French people tend to “bend the rules,” so the recent restrictions are essential. Walson emphasized, “Now everyone realizes the impact of the coronavirus and they’re starting to respect the rules more.”
Just like many Americans, Walson is grappling with the changes. But one aspect of the unprecedented circumstances have brought her comfort—unity. Although she believes, “the worst thing is seeing all of the death,” everyone around the globe is experiencing this tragedy together. Everyone is feeling the pain. Even though she’s overseas, Walson can connect with the U.S., a place she once called home, just as much as Americans can connect with France.