GrannySomerset, your John Dunne's "no man is an island" is a perfect contribution to this discussion. Thanks also to Luckygirl for her contribution.
We are all in this together from cradle to grave. Our individual actions will impact on others. It isn't age discrimination to remind us that the majority of deaths from Covid come in the over 80 age group, the second group are the over 70's. The growing evidence that people from BAME backgrounds seem to be more sick and more likely to die if they get the virus is also key information.
The NHS and hopefully care providers are beginning to look at how they can give greater protection to front line BAME workers. They make up a high proportion of medical and care staff, so thats not going to be easy.
The advice we're given not to smoke, drink excessive amounts of alcohol, to eat a varied balanced diet and to exercise to our physical and mental health is supported is just that, advice. It's the same for anyone over 70, we're given the advice that we are more at risk if we get the virus. No man (or woman) is an island and if we care about society as well as our immediate loved one's, we should follow it.
I'm in a shielded group, plus Im over 70 so the advice is not to leave the house for 12 weeks. My letter arrived six weeks into lock down but I'd assumed I should be shielding, so I had done. I'm breaking the strict guideline in one way only, that is I walk once a day. I keep the distance, jump into shrubs and streams when I hear those wretched mountain bikes racing up, or joggers but otherwise, everyone keeps a friendly distance. I believe the risks are minimal and balanced by the need to keep moving and get fresh air. No one is 'making' me do anything. I don't feel discriminated against. I feel desperately sad I can't do my usual care of grandchildren, can't hug them or my own children, my friends and loved ones. I want to live if I can and come out the other side of this.
Good Morning Saturday 27th April 2024
Passports not in the drawer I always keep them in. Turning the place upside down.