COMMERCE TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WXYZ) — When Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued an executive order forcing the closure of certain types of businesses to stop the spread of the new coronavirus, it raised questions. The order closed spas, but not salons or barbershops.
One salon in Commerce has decided to close anyway for a personal reason.
Zealand Spa and Salon is owned by Larenne Clark, the wife of retired 7 Action News Anchor Stephen Clark. She decided to shut down the entire business, after Governor Gretchen Whimer ordered spas shut down to prevent the spread of the virus.
“My granddaughter is at risk here,” said Larenne.
Larenne’s granddaughter Scarlet has Spinal Muscular Atrophy. It leaves her in danger when she gets sick. Larenne says she has started hearing from clients who have been exposed to cases or suspected cases. It all feels too close to home.
“She has had some issues with the flu in the past. It put her on life support for 2 months, so having something like this going around is real,” said Hillary, Scarlet’s mom.
“We are doing everything we can to keep her from getting it,” said Stephen Clark.
The Clark family says they want to get out the message, even if you are not in an at risk category for this virus, it is important that you take precautions for people like Scarlet. Clients of the salon seem to understand.
“They really hate to see what color gray their hair might be, but it is the right thing to do,” said Larenne.
“So probably the safest thing to do is to sit it out, stay away from other people,” said Stephen.
“This is a time for us to come together as humans, as a community,” said Hillary.
“Stay healthy,” said Scarlet.