- At the age of 13, I underwent spleen removal, leaving me with a compromised immune system.
- When I turned 29, I faced a tough decision between my health and pursuing graduate school.
- As I enter my second year of grad school, I hope to see an increase in mask-wearing.
When I was 13, I underwent a spleen removal surgery due to a rare genetic disorder that affected the proper function of my red blood cells within the spleen, leading to anemia. The splenectomy was the recommended solution, but it left me vulnerable to illnesses due to the compromised state of my immune system.
Having no spleen meant that even a common cold could quickly escalate and settle deep in my lungs. Fevers and sore throats often necessitated urgent medical care. Then, fourteen years later, the COVID-19 pandemic emerged, presenting a significant risk for someone like me without a spleen. Fortunately, I had the privilege of health insurance, a trusted doctor, and remote work options, which allowed me to protect myself by staying at home even after getting vaccinated.
However, my situation changed when I was accepted into a graduate program. This presented a difficult choice between prioritizing my health or seizing an opportunity for personal and professional growth. Despite the risks, I decided to pursue my education but found myself surrounded by a campus where masks were merely recommended and not required. As one of the few masked students, attending classes became a source of anxiety, and I took extensive precautions such as disinfecting my belongings and frequently sanitizing my hands.
I faced questions from well-meaning friends who wondered why I would go to grad school if COVID posed such a risk to my health. These questions reinforced the notion that my immunocompromised status should limit my opportunities and placed the responsibility for my well-being solely on my personal choices rather than acknowledging the role of systems and institutions in ensuring safety.
Yet, in one of my classes, I had a moment of comfort when the discussion shifted towards social equality. I bravely voiced my concern about being the only masked person in the room, immediately regretting it as I didn’t want to make my peers uncomfortable. However, the following week, I was pleasantly surprised to see that every person in the classroom was wearing a mask. Their act of solidarity made the space more accessible and relieved some of the constant fear I carried.
As I prepare for my second year of grad school, I am reminded of the importance of maintaining caution. COVID-19 remains a significant cause of death and hospitalizations in the United States. I find it disheartening to witness loved ones abandon precautions and prioritize a return to normalcy over collective safety. I don’t advocate for perpetual mask-wearing, but rather for a greater sense of caution while we continue to assess the full impact of the virus.
Through my experiences, I have learned to be open about my immunocompromised status, advocating for the necessary precautions to ensure my safety and that of others. Ideally, I wish that the presence of my mask alone could convey the need for protection without requiring explanation or justification.
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