I am 70 years old and just tested positive for COVID. And I am angry. I spent over two years of my new retirement trying to keep myself and those around me safe. I received both vaccinations and boosters as soon as they were available to me. I didn’t go to a grocery store for a year or eat out in a restaurant for nearly two. I missed family events, spending time with friends, and canceled two international cruises. And always, I wore a mask.
I flew to be with my twin sister recently as she begins treatment for breast cancer. Her first chemotherapy is imminent, but I will not be able to be with her in the hospital because of COVID. I have not been able to hug her when she (and I) both need it most. Our sacrifice is very small compared to those who lost loved ones in hospitals and nursing homes without being able to say goodbye.
But still, I am angry. At the people flying out of Salt Lake City where the airport was only 5% masked and I was one of two people on my very full plane who wore one. At those who are so arrogant and selfish that they have decided they are “just done” with this horrible disease, because it has certainly not run its course with us. I will give my sister all the love I can from a distance and the biggest hug ever when I test negative. And I will continue to mask up to keep those around me safe.
Barb Snyder, Salt Lake City
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