RIO GRANDE VALLEY, TX- From the dance floor to the living room, a series of traditions are now having to adapt in the name of public health.
Prom season is now on the verge of being delayed or postponed with the novel coronavirus showing no end in sight.
McAllen psychotherapist Dr. Elizabeth Cortez is determined to bring “a slice of normal” for the teens and adults in the community.
“A lot of them are telling me, ‘I’m so excited that we’re going back on May 4th because we’re still going to have a prom.’” Said Cortez, “And so that kind of just hit me and thought, ‘we need to do something for these kids.’”
Driven by a sense of optimism, Dr. Cortez is hosting a virtual prom this April the 25th. The live event will be streamed on Instagram and Facebook. The plan is to have a Dj, prizes, everything to bring home the true spirit of prom.
“We’re working with some makeup artist and will go on IG and have a makeup tutorial so people can get ready for the prom,” said Cortez.
The event is free and open to the public. It was inspired by her local therapist’s patients looking to return to normal life.
She says that something as simple as staying true to a daily routine or yearly traditions, could help your mental health during difficult times.
“Getting dolled up and dancing is hopefully going to help out a lot of us,” said Cortez.
Young or old, it’s about returning back to normal. Even if requires a little creativity.
The event will be hosting several competitions with prizes on the days leading up to the event.
https://www.instagram.com/therapyonthegolive/
https://www.facebook.com/Cortez-Counseling-Center-131184283600609/
From Dr. Cortez: “We are all getting excited it’ll be April 25th! Adults who don’t have kids in high school are welcome to participate and go to prom with their husbands/wives. It’ll give us an excuse to dress up! We will have a virtual promposal contest the week before. Winner will get a gift card!”
