In a tragic turn of events, 44-year-old dedicated teacher, mother, and grandmother, Maria Johnson, has succumbed to complications from COVID-19. Throughout the pandemic, numerous beloved educators have lost their lives, many of whom continued to teach in person despite the ongoing health crisis. Others opted for virtual teaching, yet all remained committed to educating children, regardless of the circumstances. Maria, a resident of New Mexico, bravely continued her virtual classes even after being hospitalized for pneumonia linked to the virus.
According to reports, Maria first experienced mild symptoms on November 12 but was soon admitted to the emergency room due to a persistent cough. There, she was diagnosed with COVID-19 and pneumonia. Following a three-day hospitalization, she left with an oxygen tank and mask, eager to return to her students. Her brother, Mark Johnson, shared, “She was determined to be with her students, even while on oxygen. Unfortunately, her condition deteriorated to the point that she struggled to breathe.”
Maria aimed to teach until the end of the term. She not only instructed students with behavioral challenges on Zoom during the day but also provided lessons over the phone to those without internet access in the evenings. Her brother estimates she was dedicating around 70 hours a week to teaching. Sadly, after two weeks, her health declined, leading to another hospitalization at Lovelace Medical Center in Albuquerque. On December 6, Maria was placed on a ventilator.
“Before this, she was a vibrant and healthy person,” Mark reflected. “We had no idea it would escalate so dramatically. She kept her struggles hidden from us.” Doctors discovered blood clots in her lungs and a collapsed lung, which led to kidney failure requiring dialysis. Mark mentioned, “I witnessed her at her lowest, but she fought with all her might. Ultimately, we made the heart-wrenching decision to withdraw her from the ventilator.”
Maria leaves behind three children and one grandchild, along with her parents and siblings. Her family, along with many students, are part of the Navajo Nation in New Mexico, a community severely impacted by the virus. Earlier this year, it recorded one of the highest per capita infection rates in the U.S., with over 20,095 cases and 731 fatalities reported by the Navajo Department of Health.
To assist with funeral expenses, the family has established a GoFundMe page, quickly reaching their goal within 48 hours. Mark hopes Maria’s story will inspire others, stating, “Her experience is not unique. We need to highlight the stories of countless individuals who have faced similar challenges.” He emphasized, “She would have wanted everyone to love one another, to see the best in everyone, and to strive to make the world a better place. That is her legacy.”
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In summary, the heartfelt story of Maria Johnson, a dedicated educator who continued to teach even while battling COVID-19, highlights the sacrifices made by many during this difficult time. Her commitment to her students and her community will be remembered, as her family seeks to honor her legacy.