In less than a week, we will celebrate Thanksgiving.  Unfortunately, we’ve seen a spike in COVID-19 cases across the country and also within the District of Columbia.  
 

Thanksgiving is normally a time for family and friends to gather and celebrate the harvest, a tradition that started in 1621 by the Pilgrims before our country was even formed.  Our Canadian neighbors to the North celebrate their Thanksgiving in early-October.  According to Dr. Laura Rosella, associate professor and epidemiologist at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health at the University of Toronto, there is evidence that Thanksgiving gatherings (in Canada) are partly to blame for the increase in cases there after the holiday.  Click here for the full article.
 
So what’s the safest way to celebrate this year? The CDC is now recommending that people not travel this holiday.  Many medical experts advise that we should share our Thanksgiving only with those with whom we share a household. Dr. Fauci explains the risk of traveling and gathering. 
 
But Thanksgiving, this sacred holiday with family and friends, doesn’t have to be lonely.  One can host a virtual Thanksgiving meal (note that Zoom has lifted the 40-minute call time for free accounts for Thanksgiving Day!) or do something that you enjoy with those in your household or via the phone with others. If you are 70 or older and live alone, Medium Rare restaurant in Cleveland Park will deliver a free thanksgiving meal. Order by emailing secretsauceme@mediumrarerestaurant.com with your name, address, and phone number. 
 
Most importantly, it’s important to recognize that it’s often difficult to tell family and friends that getting together is not safe this year.  Know that it’s okay if you decide to stay home and remain apart from others. You’re part of a village, so you’re never really alone.  We’re here for each other, even on Thanksgiving!

 

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