Prioritizing Community Health This Holiday Season

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As you plan your holiday gatherings this year, I urge you to keep in mind the vulnerable members of our community, like my daughter, Emma. As of now, if Emma requires inpatient care, she would face the possibility of being admitted alone, likely transported to an unfamiliar hospital due to the overwhelming capacity issues at our local facilities. This would mean my two-year-old, a trached micropreemie, would be left without either of her parents to advocate for her significant medical needs.

Seeing countless posts about “living your life” and “not living in fear” is both shocking and painful. These choices endanger the lives of our elderly loved ones and those like Emma, who depend on accessible healthcare. The reckless actions of others can jeopardize her ability to receive essential medical care.

I often hear that the vulnerable should simply remain at home, or that Emma’s health is solely our responsibility. However, we must visit pharmacies for critical medications and supplies. While we can arrange for groceries to be delivered, staying home is not a feasible option for us every day. Emma requires ongoing medical attention beyond just COVID-related care; she has a tracheostomy, compromised lung function, and various health complications from her premature birth. With the healthcare system strained as it is, we risk delays in response to medical emergencies, irrespective of the pandemic.

Consider the Needs of Our Community

As you finalize your holiday plans, I hope you will consider the needs of individuals in your community, like Emma, who might require access to hospital beds, ventilators, and the dedicated healthcare professionals who are already stretched thin. Now is the time to prioritize the well-being of others over personal desires. What I need from you is to cancel your Thanksgiving plans and stay home.

Please refrain from expressing concern for my daughter or others like her while continuing to act as if the pandemic is nonexistent.

Resources for Your Journey to Parenthood

For more insights on navigating your journey to parenthood, check out our related post on home insemination techniques. If you’re also looking to boost your chances of conception, Make a Mom offers valuable resources. Additionally, Parents provides excellent guidance on what to expect during your first IUI.

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In summary, as we navigate the complexities of this holiday season, let us remember the impact of our choices on those who are most vulnerable. Together, we can prioritize the health and safety of our community.