Compassionate Care During COVID-19

HEADSHOT, Colin Lukas

Photo Provided

High school junior Colin Lukas used his personal experiences this summer as a springboard for his new business, Colin’s Covid Care.

Colin helped his family and friends cope when a seriously ill family member required repeated hospitalizations. The experience was made more complicated due to COVID-19. Colin became proficient at navigating nearby stores, where long lines, social distancing and scarcity of items always occurred.

“I studied the specific layouts and brands offered at nearby stores,” Colin said. “I learned which ones were more likely to carry the items and particular brands needed.”

Because of these hurdles, Colin initially focused on providing personalized and efficient grocery delivery.

“I realized it was the simplest things that make people the happiest because of the extra stress and amount of time it took to do regular things,” he said.

The teen has expanded his business to include other tasks, like mowing lawns and moving furniture. His website allows potential customers to email him their job requests and the time they would prefer the tasks to be done. He has a flexible schedule because his virtual learning consists of only two 90-minute classes per day.

Colin’s family has always focused on helping the less fortunate in the community, and they participate in year-round activities. Colin’s grandfather set a great example.

“My grandfather always said that helping others keeps your mind off your own troubles and makes you feel better,” Colin said.

Colin’s own struggle to cope with a two-year debilitating depression makes it easy for him to identify with his grandfather’s saying. The same isolation, heightened anxiety and impaired coping skills are a few symptoms of mental health illness.

“I am so grateful to my family and my friends, who helped me when my world came crashing down,” he said.

Colin wants to become an entrepreneur in the future, but he hasn’t decided on the kind of business. Colin’s Covid Care is helping him develop much-needed skills.

“People really appreciate the willingness to listen to their concerns during isolation,” he said. “My services are offered at a very reasonable cost because helping people through a difficult time is the most important aspect right now.”

For more information, contact Colin at colinscovidcare@gmail.com.