A Port Macquarie resident who is self-isolating after a trip overseas has credited small businesses as being incredibly supportive during the 14 day period.
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Renae Sandell and her husband Guy did not test positive for coronavirus (COVID-19) after returning home from Japan on March 10 but were advised to self-isolate for 14 days as a precaution.
After landing in Sydney Renae and Guy went straight to the exit and called a taxi to transport them to their car.
They drove to Port Macquarie and called their doctor to make an appointment for the following day.
Their doctor wore protective equipment and met the couple at their car, so they could undergo testing. The tests came back as negative, however the doctor still advised them to isolate for the mandatory 14 days.
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Renae said she wants to demystify the meaning of being in self-isolation, as it's not as bad as people might perceive it to be.
While they did return home to an empty pantry after their holiday, help from friends as well as grocery deliveries has helped ensure they can still have a more than adequate food supply.
Renae said it's time people support small businesses, which still have a plentiful supply of produce.
The couple have reached out to local businesses, including Kenny Little's who Renae said were willing to go above and beyond to help them out with a delivery.
"They asked me if there was anything else they could get from the Munster shops to help us out," she said.
The couple rarely shop at the big supermarket chains, as they prefer to seek fresh produce from local businesses.
Renae said if others have to self-isolate they should consider touching base with their local butcher, grocer, bakery and cafes as they'd be very willing to help out those who need it.
The couple also had gelato delivered from Blue Cow, which included a vegan variety for Guy.
They reached out to Renae's work colleagues who delivered some toilet paper rolls for them.
The couple have set up work stations within their home and are effectively carrying out their jobs while self-isolating.
Technology has meant their daily tasks can be done with ease.
The only item Renae is missing from her daily morning routine is a good cup of coffee from a local cafe.
She's hoping someone might be able to drop one off to her on their way to work.
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