As the Delta variant continues to spread, many of us are feeling increasingly anxious about our loved ones’ health. In my family of six, only half are vaccinated, and three of my kids are under ten. This situation is all too common, leaving us to wonder what steps we should take, especially with the new school year upon us.
Does anyone else notice that the guidelines seem to change almost daily? Reliable sources often contradict each other. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve read that we must each assess the virus in our own way, using our best judgment for social interactions. But what does “best judgment” even mean anymore? I’m utterly exhausted from the constant influx of COVID-related information and the confusion that comes with it. Like many, I wish this pandemic would end, yet the numbers indicate our children are at greater risk than ever.
The pressure to make the right choices has intensified since I’m currently undergoing treatment for breast cancer. Although I finished chemotherapy a month ago and am no longer considered immunosuppressed, my treatment plan hinges on my family’s health. If anyone contracts the virus, I can’t attend my daily radiation therapy sessions. The stakes feel incredibly high.
Over the last year and a half, we have tried our best to adhere to the ever-changing guidelines. We’ve consistently worn masks, awaited our vaccinations, practiced social distancing, and minimized outings. We’ve only dined in a restaurant once since the pandemic began, and that was solely for takeout. We strive to stay informed, yet we find ourselves in a perpetual state of uncertainty, especially regarding gatherings with extended family.
We haven’t attended any weddings, funerals, or birthday parties during this time. Last Christmas, we opted not to gather, which was particularly heartbreaking for me since it’s my favorite holiday. With three high-risk family members, I’ve read enough about transmission in close quarters to know that meeting up wasn’t a safe option.
Despite our efforts, I often feel drained. It seems like I’m carrying the weight of this pandemic on my shoulders. We see others enjoying life on social media, and it stirs feelings of resentment, jealousy, and disappointment. We find ourselves questioning how much longer we must navigate this cautious “new normal.”
Will society ever get ahead? It appears there are two distinct groups: those who take the virus seriously and follow safety protocols and those who seem to have disregarded caution entirely. Will this endless cycle ever cease?
We haven’t traveled since the pandemic began. I long to take my kids to the beach and enjoy some family fun, but being in crowded places feels irresponsible. We’ve limited get-togethers to outdoor meetings with just one set of relatives. I’m grieving the moments I haven’t been able to hug my nephews or run errands with my sister. Time feels like it’s slipping away from us.
Some days, the temptation to say “forget it” and host a family gathering is overwhelming. I want my teenager to celebrate their thirteenth birthday properly. I miss my coffee dates with friends. However, I also know that each choice we make can have serious repercussions for our unvaccinated children, my cancer treatment, and the health of those around me.
I am not, as some might think, living in fear. Instead, I choose to prioritize the well-being of those around me. Yet, it’s disheartening to feel so isolated in this decision-making process while being uncertain about how to best protect myself and others.
To make matters more challenging, my kids have only been back in school for a week, and I’ve already received emails about positive COVID cases. How much longer until remote learning becomes the norm again, forcing us to stay indoors throughout fall and winter? If only some of us follow the guidelines, how can we expect to see a resolution?
Ultimately, my concern lies with the children who lack the layered protection of vaccines. Masks and distancing aren’t foolproof, and kids often don’t wear their masks correctly or need breaks. I want studies to confirm the vaccine’s safety and effectiveness for children, but waiting for that assurance is excruciating.
I find myself grappling with decision fatigue, especially as it feels like half of my family is safe while my youngest children remain vulnerable. What is an adequate level of caution, and are we overreacting? I yearn for clarity and relief from this situation, but when will it come? What will it take to get there?
It seems no one has the answers.
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Summary:
The pandemic has created an ongoing struggle for families with differing vaccination statuses, especially for those with health concerns. The constant changes in guidelines and the emotional toll of navigating social interactions during this time can be overwhelming. Families grapple with decision fatigue while trying to protect their loved ones, particularly children who are not vaccinated, and yearn for clarity as they navigate these challenging circumstances.