In a matter of months, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a far-reaching impact on humanity. Many facets of life have been impacted and transformed throughout the world. Prince George is no exception as we navigate these unchartered waters. I’ve been so encouraged by many people in our community who continue to move forward and adapt to circumstances that sometimes change daily. For the foreseeable future, I am dedicating Latitude to the inspiring stories of everyday citizens of Prince George.
When I asked Chelsea Gibson, world traveller and entrepreneur extraordinaire, how COVID-19 has impacted her life and business, she generously responded to my question.
“COVID-19 has changed my life dramatically, particularly how I run my local small business, Wild Rose Wellness. In-person wellness workshops are the core of my business. My schedule in both March and April was fully booked with workshops and private sessions locally and throughout BC, including remote communities. Suddenly, every booking had to be cancelled in response to the call for physical distancing. This was devastating as I serve as some of my clients’ greatest source of social connection, especially during stressful times. I was grappling with the inability to help my clients face to face.”
Chelsea rose to the challenge by quickly developing online services that are now being offered as an alternative to in-person wellness workshops.
“Thankfully, I am still able to support clients’ mental and emotional health. At the same time, I’ve reduced pricing as a show of support.” Additionally, Chelsea has created a free daily video series on YouTube, Instagram and Facebook that calls for her creativity and positivity during a troubled time. Chelsea’s fortitude and tenacity has paid off with her videos now being shared around the world. Technology has opened a new and innovative approach not only for Chelsea’s business, but as a way to connect more closely with family and friends, for which Chelsea says she is deeply grateful.
Before the pandemic, Chelsea’s eldest brother tragically passed away in a car accident. A memorial service was planned this month in New York City. Over one hundred of her brother’s family members, friends and co-workers were planning to attend in celebration of his life. New York City has now become the epicentre of the pandemic and all plans are on hold.
Chelsea’s resilience is evident as she describes day-to-day life.
“On a positive note, I live with two other family members and have noticed we have never been closer. We are using this time to support each other's grief, taking walks around the neighbourhood and working out, as well as joining forces in household responsibilities and cooking healthy meals together. Evening gratitude sharing and dance parties weren't part of our lives before, but they are now.”
Chelsea also remarked that the Prince George community support for small and local businesses, particularity on social media, has never been stronger.
“We are now following each other on different platforms, sharing content, buying local when possible and connecting as small business owners. Bonds have been strengthened. I am so thankful I live in Prince George and run a small business that serves the North. I have never felt so supported and connected to my community while being so physically disconnected.”
Thank you, Chelsea, for your inspiring story.
If you would like to share how COVID-19 has impacted your life or business, I would love to read your comments below or email me at [email protected].
