Today, Explained The epicenter of the epicenter
Apr 20, 2020
Ramtin Arablui, co-host of Throughline, shares his profoundly personal story of losing his uncle to COVID-19 in Iran. The conversation delves into the stark realities of pandemic deaths and their lingering impact on loved ones. Guests recount harrowing experiences from frontline workers and the emotional toll it takes on communities. Arablui highlights the significance of cultural mourning practices in Iran, urging listeners to confront the gravity of loss during this unprecedented time. Together, they explore grief in a world forever altered by the pandemic.
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Life in Queens
- Arun Venugopal, living near Elmhurst Hospital, feels the pandemic's impact intensely.
- The area, called "epicenter of the epicenter", has a high mortality rate, making even stepping outside feel risky.
Morgue Truck Worker
- Eric Frampton, a former framing business owner, now works in a NYC mobile morgue.
- Driven by financial need and anger at the government's crisis response, he took the job despite his husband's fears.
Inside the Morgue Trailers
- Eric Frampton describes chaotic morgue scenes, including torn body bags and overflowing shelves.
- He FaceTimed Arun Venugopal from the trailers, sharing the grim reality and emotional burden of his work.