Virtual family visit connects couple during COVID-19: Connie and Tony, married 47 years, share their story

Connie and Tony Carvalho have been married 47 years.

When Tony became an inpatient in Michael Garron Hospital’s (MGH) Complex Continuing Care unit starting January 10, Connie came to the hospital every day from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. to be with him.

That changed in mid-March when the province directed all hospitals to restrict visitors due to the risks of COVID-19. This was extremely difficult and sad for Connie and Tony – in their 47 years of marriage, they’d never been apart, until now.

Since video family visits were first introduced at MGH near the end of March in Tony’s inpatient unit, the couple has visited twice per week by video, with the help of Activation Coordinator Damien Seo.

“It’s been very, very hard to not come and visit. But I am so happy to see him over video a couple times a week, and to make eye contact and see his beautiful smile. I can tell how he’s feeling and how he’s doing” says Connie, who also talks to Tony a few times per day by phone.

“The times I can see him on the iPad is amazing; it really reduces my anxiety and lessens my stress. I believe that with Tony being able to hear and see me it helps him get through this difficult time and helps me as well.”

“God bless Damien and all the staff. I thank them every day!”