Covid-19 has been difficult for all of us but future LSH clients and others struggling with Sight and Hearing issues, it has had extra challenges. Muffled voices through masks add a layer of difficulty for those with sight issues and for friends in the Deaf community, who have had a hard time communicating without being able to read lips or social cues.

Just when we thought it was safe to take our masks off, the Delta variant showed up and said, “Not so fast.”

It was nice, for those of us who are vaccinated, to walk into the grocery store and actually see people’s faces, hear people clearly and absorb visual communication cues.

But now we’re being asked (required in some places) to put masks on again, and with good reason. Positive cases of COVID-19 continue to increase across California.

Over the last week, California has reported an average of nearly 7,400 new coronavirus cases a day — roughly eight times the rate from four weeks ago, according to data compiled by The Los Angeles Times.

Cases are increasing statewide, and it’s largely among unvaccinated people. But even if you’re vaccinated, there’s a small chance you can get the virus and unknowingly pass it on to others.

So as masks go back on the list to grab when leaving the house – I am looking at some of the new masks out there including some clear N95 masks that protect you and others from this even faster spreading variant. So when I put my mask on when I spend time with my six-year-old granddaughter, who’s too young to be vaccinated, she can still see my smile.

Why am I still smiling? Because I know I would do anything to protect her and others who may be vulnerable – the kids, and those who can’t be vaccinated for medical reasons.

When you think about vaccination and masking, please think about those loved ones around you! And don’t forget your masks!

Sincerely,