The Calculated Risk
Updated: Jan 27, 2021
I have completed almost a year and a half of treatments for stage 4 breast cancer. So far, my scans have shown no new cancer. For that I am grateful.
However, the current COVID-19 pandemic has created a new set of concerns for anyone with a compromised immune system. It has impacted almost every aspect of my daily life, as well as my plans for future travel.
As my doctor recently said, everything we choose to do for the next 6 to 12 months is a calculated risk. With those words, he reinforced my decision to self-quarantine.
What does that mean exactly? My outings are limited to going to my medical appointments, grocery shopping and an occasional trip to a specialty store – always wearing a mask, of course. We have had a few technicians and installers in our home – wearing masks as requested. I have practiced my social distancing.
We have had almost no social interaction with friends and neighbors other than an occasional outdoor visit or a casual conversation while taking a walk.
We have canceled two cruises. We have not traveled to visit family members. We have not eaten at a restaurant in over 5 months.
Of all the restrictions, I miss my children the most. The only way to see them in person is to fly to the opposite coast. My doctor has emphatically advised against doing that. He has also discouraged the idea of my children flying to see me.
I keep asking how long this “new normal” will last. As the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays approach, what will they be like? When will it be safe to travel? When will I see my children and grandchildren again?
Yes, we visit on Face Time or Zoom, but it’s just not the same as being together in person.
With the flu season quickly approaching, it adds another level of concern.
Meanwhile, I occupy myself by reading and making cards. I am all ready for Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas!
Since we are not spending money on travel, it has given us the opportunity to focus on home improvement projects and purchase such things as new appliances.
My goals are to remain positive and productive as we all do our best to navigate this unknown challenge.
I’m looking forward to when it feels safe to take a calculated risk! We’ll be booking that flight to the west coast to see our children and grandchildren.