“Do no harm”; “err on the side of caution”; “better safe than sorry” – how many times have you thought about or even said these very words over the past 60-90 days?
People who know me know that I am not a risk taker. So, it is not unexpected that as I go about planning my eventual post-pandemic routine, these phrases rise to the forefront of my thoughts frequently. As a parent of an individual who is at high risk of serious complications should she contract COVID-19, it is more important than ever that I minimize her risk as our state and local communities ease the restrictions that have been in place for the past several weeks.
During our weeks of quarantine, I have taught her how and when to use hand sanitizer, the importance of masks, and keeping a healthy distance from others. We are still working on replacing hugs with ‘fist or elbow bumps’.
How are you preparing your loved ones to be safe and healthy as we move toward easing pandemic restrictions? The choices you make will not only protect your family, but they will protect others in your community.
Let’s set a positive example with ‘Do no harm; err on the side of caution; better safe than sorry’. You may never know the impact your choices may have on others.
Jacqueline Gorton is an advocate with Disability Rights Arkansas. Email her at jgorton@disabilityrightsar.org.