More Life Care workers tested for coronavirus

KIRKLAND, Wash. — At Life Care Center in Kirkland, more staffers are getting tested for the deadly virus.

Just 18 workers at the facility, at the center of Washington’s outbreak, still have to be tested.

And so far, 47 employees have tested positive for the coronavirus.

For family members, it means another day of trying to visit loved ones through a window.

This is the closest Judie Shape’s family can get to her, standing outside the large window to her room.

“I’ve done that a few times,” said Lori Spencer, Shape’s daughter. “It’s been the best way to kind of see how she’s doing.”

That has become especially important since the 81-year-old tested positive for the coronavirus.

“But she’s doing amazingly well,” said Lori. “She was humorous. She got to see the relatives and family that she hasn’t seen in a while. It’s a wonderful visit. She’s just full of memories right now. She’s all about her memories.”

They know they are among the lucky ones.

Twenty-seven Life Care residents, many in their 80s, have succumbed to the fast-moving coronavirus, including two people whose deaths were reported Saturday by Seattle/King County Public Health.

Several Life Care employees showing symptoms were tested at a makeshift outdoor clinic Saturday morning.

Eighteen employees still needed testing. The standard COVID-19 test kit includes a long nasal swab.

Lori Spencer and her husband, Michael, believe they both had the coronavirus.

“Well, Lori was very sick for six weeks,” he said.

“Five weeks and I tested negative for influenza A and B,” said Lori. “So this was December.”

Now they are trying to figure out what their next step will be for Lori’s Mom.

“We actually want her to come back to our place,” said Michael. “We don’t really want her here anymore. And she doesn’t want to do that. She’s made the decision to stay here.”

One of the things that is cheering her up a lot are these blue ribbons someone tied on these trees.

For those of you who don’t know, Judie Shape is the widow of SeaTac’s former mayor Ralph Shape.

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