This letter was written by a person incarcerated at Valley State.
Dear PrisonPandemic,
Hey, I’ll write this letter only if I receive more info about PrisonPandemic project. So I’ll tell you a little about myself. I’m engaged to a beautiful woman who is the mother of my beautiful little girl. I’m in my mid-30s and have but a year or less till my release. I’ve been incarcerated since March 2019 and will be released April 2021.
Okay, I hope you are in great health and the rest of the students- many blessings.
Answering your questions. One, what has it been like to be inside during this time? No complaints. I’m alive and paying for the crime I committed. Yes COVID-19 has affected us all, but I’m in here for a reason. Two, how do I feel about my safety inside? Well I am a high-risk medical who, if I could go to a doctor on my own, I would.
As far as my safety goes, CDCR has taken every right precaution that they can. I mean we’re prison inmates, what can I do? Let us all out? Yes, I feel safe.
Three, What has it been like to have reduced visitation from family and loved ones? It sucks only because being away from my princess and my fiance is like a spider without a web. I can only survive but I need something to hold onto. I mean why survive when we can live!
My family is my web. We’re eternally blessed. But overall, speaking with my family is the best thing ever. I also have a son, I’ve never met him but I pray to God everyday that he’s great and his mother, too. He’s 11 years old.
Four, how have I been coping with this crisis? I’ve been coping with this crisis by binge-watching Big Bang Theory and Modern Family, LOL. Laughter is good for the body, mind, and soul.
Five, how have the vaccinations been going at my facility? Funny you should ask, I’m receiving mine today or tomorrow. I want to say about 80 percent of the inmates are vaccinated. So Valley State Prison is also bringing in tablets which are free provided by GTL – a phone company.
We will be allowed video family visits. I meant to write this down earlier. Thank you so much for your care and concern.
Sincerely.
