For the past five months (early March to early August), we have been “shielding” to avoid risk exposure to the coronavirus. In this time, I have been close to two people outside of my home – yes, TWO! That is it! One being the phlebotomist, Rosie, whom I have seen twice in the car park of the local medical practice when she has taken my bloods, arm outstretched across the car bonnet and the second being a registrar doctor on Friday – this time INSIDE the practice. I was literally rushed straight to the consulting room, and within 6 minutes was driving back home! Wow for taking care not to stress out an immune-suppressed patient! Wow for being understanding of the anxiety around rheumatoid arthritis patients who are painstakingly aware of their situation.
Which begs the question, are we ready to venture out into the big wide world when things “normalise” again (whatever that means these days)? I am not sure I am, but I sure do want to! Besides the super-early morning walks, it feels bizarre to go out anywhere, and I found myself checking that everyone I passed en route to the doctor’s rooms was wearing a mask like compliant and responsible citizens. Nope, they weren’t. Not donning their protective face wear had my annoyance rising as I just kept thinking – it’s guys and gals like you that keep the medical front line staff running circles to save people and then all those shielding from the virus! Arghghgh!
Come on everyone, wear those face masks, spare a thought for others who are really wanting to close the Covid-19 wards now and not constantly be worried about contaminating their families when they get home from the hospitals, consider those that have been “shielding” for so long, consider the elderly who want to visit with their grandchildren and families, consider the businesses that would like to get going again, consider ruined economies… give us all a break and wear the mask! And I’ve seen gorgeous fashionable ones too – for those that are not particularly fond of the medical-looking options.
So, I asked friends and family to share photos of themselves wearing their masks, and what a pleasant surprise to receive all the different pics! Thank you all for these fabulous visuals: Bianca, Lyn, Dorianne, Ceallach, Gaynor, Christine, Steve, Sandy, Gabi, Jemma, Dee, Jenny, Bob, Natasja, Carol, Jillian and Warwick – you’ve made my day and inspired me!
So… is it going to be pragmatic and practical; or fashionable and fun (but does the job, of course)? To be or not to be…
Charlene
PS: Need I mention… don’t forget good hand washing!
Charlene Lamb is a strategic communications professional and has enjoyed an illustrious career in the corporate world before steering her public relations consultancy in South Africa and the United Kingdom. She also enjoyed an exciting time as a journalist in the United States, interviewing many famous personalities. She is married and has three energetic fur babies: her Jack Russells, Chilli, Vlekkie and Sammy and is passionate about primates and the welfare of animals.
