March 6: Update from Scott Anderson

Beloved ones:

I want to offer a brief follow-up to the communication sent out yesterday regarding COVID-19.

I want you to be aware of the current recommendations from King County Public Health, specifically the guidance for those who are considered higher risk:
 
Guidance for people at higher risk for severe COVID-19 Illness

Public Health recommends that people at higher risk of severe illness should stay home and away from large groups of people as much as possible, including public places with lots of people and large gatherings where there will be close contact with others. This includes concert venues, conventions, sporting events, and crowded social gatherings.

People at higher risk include people:

• Over 60 years of age
• With underlying health conditions including include heart disease, lung disease, or diabetes
• With weakened immune systems
• Who are pregnant

Caregivers of children with underlying health conditions should consult with healthcare providers about whether their children should stay home. Anyone who has questions about whether their condition puts them at risk for novel coronavirus should consult with their healthcare providers.
 
I am aware that there can be subtle pressures, either internally, or externally imposed, that might lead us to unwise choices. I have in mind a pastor colleague in the area who, in weighing communication with the pastor’s congregation, said recently “I already know of at least 2 medically fragile, 80+ year-olds who would show up, even at the potential expense of their health.”

So I want you to hear, directly from me, if you are feeling symptoms or feeling vulnerable due to underlying health conditions or simply being in a higher risk group, we want to encourage you to stay comfortable at home. We will be together again soon enough!

If you are homebound or quarantined during this time and in need of support or meals, please contact your deacon or me so we can be of support to you.

Grace & Peace,
Scott