Personal Space

Since COVID started I have never really been worried about germs. I have always worn a mask in public and am careful to give people personal space. I listened to the concerns of people who were immunocompromised and have always tried to act in a way that won't make others feel uncomfortable, but have never felt personally at risk when I go out in the world to run errands.

Now that I am immunocompromised, I am experiencing some true germ anxiety for the first time. Last week I went to Winners to shop for summer hats, and in the checkout line none of the other customers in front of me or behind me were wearing masks. I was wearing mine and trying to keep my distance, but felt very vulnerable in that moment. The customers behind me were breathing down my neck even though I was clearly leaving space before the customers ahead of me.

I'm not afraid of getting COVID as much as I'm worried about the fact that getting it (or another illness) could result in a delay in my treatment. I am aware that I could choose to NOT go out into the world, but really do think I should be able to go out in public (at least in a limited way) and feel somewhat safe from other peoples' germs in a time when COVID numbers are still high. I have grown used to the personal space social distancing gave us in checkout lines, and was truly surprised that others have so quickly grown comfortable with being so close to strangers again.

So, if you can, give strangers space! You never know how much it might mean to someone. :) 

Fun Chemo Facts:

  • My tumour feels like it's gone or almost gone. How fantastic is that? It is really amazing to be able to see evidence that the medicine works.

  • My armpit hair is gone. Yay me! Lower maintenance hair removal is a definite perk.

  • My head has been cold the last couple of days so I'm wearing a toque in the house.

  • The hairs on my head that continue to hang on are MOSTLY white. This does not impress me and I feel like a baby duck or goose.


We are having fun at the Canada Wide Science Fair this week. The virtual event is well organized and I am glad to be able to participate. They even mailed us some fun CWSF swag! This is a goofy photo I shared on social media that features my baby-goose-down melon:





Comments

  1. BethieJHMay 19, 2022 at 10:07 PM

    Gorgeous pic!
    Let me know if you need a wingman https://tenor.com/bkm62.gif

    ReplyDelete
  2. Lisa NobleJune 15, 2022 at 8:06 PM

    Your smile through all of this gives me such joy! And the armpit hair! Bonus!

    ReplyDelete

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