SELFISH SISTER DIDN’T ISOLATE FOR GRAN VISIT

Dear Coleen

I’m a woman in my 20s and I’ve been isolating for two weeks before visiting my grandparents.

I was trying to be responsible so I could see them with the least risk, but my younger sister visited them last weekend and didn’t bother to quarantine beforehand.

I think she’s selfish and stupid and we had a blazing row about it.

My principles are so different to hers and she knew I was quarantining before visiting.

Am I overreacting? I just feel that I’d hate to be responsible for my grandparents getting ill.

Coleen says

No, I don’t think you’re overreacting, but I think the situation is driving us all a bit mad and probably causing lots of arguments because we all have different views and different ideas about risk.

Maybe your sister was very careful when she visited and stayed socially distanced from your grandparents.

It sounds as if they were happy to have her in their home and, here’s the thing, you can’t be responsible for what other people do – you can only be responsible for yourself.

You’re being extra cautious and that’s good, and when you see your grandparents, you’ll know you’ve done everything you can to protect them.

On top of this horrible situation we find ourselves in, don’t fall out with your sister or start a family feud. We need each other more than ever right now.

It’s OK to disagree with her, but maybe also trust your grandparents too. I’m sure they won’t have put themselves at risk.