Hi @annieg87 It sure does feel like everyone else has moved on from Covid…but it isn’t over by a long shot. Those of us who are immunocompromised are still faced with the possibility of becoming seriously ill from this virus, the flu, RSV or any other communicable diseases, including food born bacteria and fungi. Our world is a little scarier because of our conditions.

You’re right to continue to be cautious. Unfortunately not everyone understands the personal challenges we face. I had a bone marrow transplant and also have to avoid social gatherings where there are people not wearing masks. I’ve missed funerals, weddings, baby showers, holiday parties, etc., and though I feel badly about it, I know that I can’t take chances. Summer is when our friends and families make up for lost time by having our get togethers outside on porches and decks.

When anyone comes to our home we ask them to mask even if it’s the HVAC people servicing the furnace. My husband is my caregiver so he has to say healthy as well. We mask up getting groceries or anytime we’re out in public whether it’s in the elevator of our condo building or walking through a lobby. I can’t say most of my family and friends understand but that’s ok. Those who are important to me have my back and have no problem wearing a mask when we’re together. I have one family member who refuses to mask up so that is her decision then not to be with us.

If you do chose to go to a small social event, you certainly should mask up with a good N-95 mask that fits well. Bear in mind a mask is very helpful but it isn’t a 100% barrier either. What would be best to avoid is a large gathering where there are families with children coughing, people laughing and having to speak loudly, that’s where the most exposure happens and are the riskiest scenarios. Sadly, it’s best to avoid those situations. Now, if everyone would have some compassion and concern for people who are immunocompromised and mask up, then we could all be in the room together. That level of concern for others seems to be sorely lacking.

Hopefully this doesn’t bring on another heated discussion about the efficacy of masks. I know there are strong feelings on both sides of the masking issue. But they do work, I’m living proof of this. Transplant patients were required to wear N-95 masks to protect themselves long before Covid came into being and they’ve kept me safe.

It’s difficult to convince people who aren’t going through a similar health issue the dangers that we face when our immune systems aren’t as robust. But I feel if you let people know that a large gathering isn’t safe for you, most will understand.
Do you have a home covid test kit and wear N-95 masks?