Cold and Flu season is the hardest time of year for me. Even before my official diagnosis I got sick frequently-just this past year I had gotten the flu at two separate times. This year I have gotten three colds in the months of September and October that were exhausting enough to prevent me from going to work as it caused a flare of my IBD. To try to prevent getting sick (as people go out even when they are sick) my doctor had highly recommended to wear a face mask in public and wash my hands and belongings more frequently.

I went out Christmas shopping on Saturday and found some nice ornaments for my Disney tree this year (blog coming soon on the Ornament haul!). While I was out shopping at my local Walmart, I was looked at by other shoppers. I get it, it’s different and trying to avoid looking at it is easier said then done- trust me I used to have trouble myself. It wasn’t until I passed by some Comcast employees trying to sell internet that I felt what others with similar problems deal with daily.

I passed by the employees and was looking at the DVD bin next to them. An older man in an electric wheelchair pulls up besides the employees and “whispers” (I put it in quotes because it was really loud) while pointing at me, “Why is she wearing a face mask in the public? Can you make her take it off?”. The employees whispered a reply but I couldn’t hear what they said.

I looked up at them and gave them a look of anger with my eyebrows and just walked away. I could have made a scene, I wish I did- but I didn’t. The hurt and embarrassment was pretty heavy and I learned quickly why people with disabilities and diseases have trouble engaging with the public. I understand you could be afraid of becoming ill, but not everyone with a protective face mask in public is sick.

While this happens Saturday, something similar happens on Sunday at my Churches charity dinner for volunteer work. The woman I ran into was a lot nicer- we were talking in line waiting for our dinner and since I knew her somewhat, explained my food was taking a little longer because I can’t eat many things. She smiled and said she figured that was what the mask was for but didn’t want to be rude and pry. Following that, she explained she has a daughter with an IBD as well who has to do the same thing. It just goes to show you the differences you face and how just basic awareness can prevent issues like this weekend from occurring.

Was I overreacting? I probably am taking it too much to heart but since this is new to me still, and I’m a bit sensitive about it. A little common courtesy goes a long way!