Life on the front lines has never been more trying for first responders. They truly are heroes, and we're so proud to spotlight our very own Renee Davis '16, a Philadelphia police officer and Army reservist, who shared her experience and reflected on what it's been like working and living during this pandemic.

by Renee Davis '16

I graduated from CHC in 2016 with a B.S. in criminal justice and a minor in philosophy. I am now a Philadelphia police officer as well as an Army reservist. During this pandemic, my job has not changed much. I work in the Kensington section of Philadelphia so I’m pretty active daily.

As police officers, we try to encourage everyone to maintain social distancing when they have to be around others and to stay in the house if they don’t need to be out. This pandemic is extremely frightening. Every day I pray I don’t come into contact with the virus and get sick. I haven’t seen my family in person in weeks. All I do is pray for the day this all ends and we get back to living a normal life.

One of the most heartwarming aspects of this pandemic has been the support we have received from the local community. I am very thankful for the people that have brought any food to my district and the many people who have made masks for officers to wear. What I am most grateful for, however, are the many prayers and well wishes I receive on a daily basis. We live in a time where police officers aren’t always seen in the best light, so to see the outpouring of support and concern directed to myself and my fellow officers has been amazing.

I just pray a vaccine is made and that we all are able to receive it and get back to the life we had a few months ago. I mostly look forward to going on a trip when this is over. I want to sit on a beach and enjoy life again when it is safe to do so.