Mighty Well
  • Shop
  • Learn
  • Journal
  • Join Us
  • Who We Are

Mighty Well

  • Shop
  • Learn
  • Journal
  • Join Us
  • Who We Are
General Wellness

Keeping Thanksgiving Accessible

by Ariela Paulsen November 17, 2021November 17, 2021
written by Ariela Paulsen
Keeping Thanksgiving Accessible

The beauty of holiday traditions is that they give us a structure within which to celebrate.  We make the same foods, often with the same people.  We share what we are grateful for or swap gifts.  We have preset themes for decorating.  And, holidays are built to be inclusive, providing entertainment and connection for family members of all ages. 

Making holidays not only inclusive but accessible to all of your loved ones doesn’t have to take much extra work!  Check out our tips for an accessible Thanksgiving celebration:

1. COVID safe

Yes, part of accessibility this year involves making sure guests feel safe from COVID-19.  If you are vaccinated, relatively young, and healthy, you may no longer worry about getting sick in your day to day life.  But those who are older than 65, younger than 4 months, immunocompromised, or at high risk for any other reason, want to know that they will be safe before coming.  Remember that you may not know who falls into this category!  We know from last year that gathering for holidays is a main cause of COVID transmission.  We will be indoors and unmasked, in close quarters with people who have different levels of exposure and who may be traveling.  But there are steps we can take to reduce the risk!  

communicate — check in with guests ahead of time to find out their risk levels and concerns.  Consider asking that people play it safe the week beforehand, wearing masks when possible, not going into crowded public spaces like restaurants and bars.  Mostly, make sure everyone is heard and let them know what to expect so that they can make an informed decision about whether or not they feel safe attending in person.

vaccinate — COVID is far more infectious and dangerous for unvaccinated people.  It is ok to limit your party to vaccinated guests (and their young ineligible children).  Be clear to communicate well if you do, to make sure they know you are not excluding them because of who they are, but rather you are just taking precautions to keep everyone safe, and that you hope to see them for next year’s celebration.  If you do end up including unvaccinated guests, be sure to mention it to all other guests.  This is important for the informed consent mentioned above.  Again, you may not know who in your party is immunocompromised or otherwise at high risk.

keep it small — like last year, it may be a time to do a few smaller gatherings rather than bringing everyone together for one larger celebration.  If we keep the spread down this year, it may mean a safer holiday next year.  That said, it is still important to find warmth in one another, so it’s up to each of us to decide what size will still feel joyous.

get tested — we have the tools to screen for COVID, so you could get a PCR test a few days before (knowing a negative test doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t develop COVID a few days later unless you’ve been quarantining).  You could also ask everyone to take a rapid antigen test at home that morning; it has ~15% chance of false negative and 2% false positive, but it is a good way to screen larger groups of people!

keep sniffles at home — if anyone in your party does feel under the weather, stay home.  For vaccinated people, COVID can present just like a cold, even a mild one.  If you have any cold symptoms, or headache, fatigue, or loss of taste/smell, let your party know and ask if they would like you to stay home.  It will be sad, but better than bringing a potentially devastating illness to everyone you love.

Looking for a more thorough guide on staying safe this holiday season?  Click here.

Photo by Jessica Ruscello on Unsplash

2. food sensitivities

For this and every year, remember that your guests may have food sensitivities.  Send out a quick check in ahead of time to ask for food restrictions.  If no one has any, great!  If someone does, however, be sure to accommodate.  It is quite isolating to sit in a room full of people enjoying a meal when you can’t partake.  You don’t need to switch up your whole meal plan, but make sure that there is at least a portion of a main course, side, and dessert that they can enjoy.  If it’s easy to leave a sauce on the side, or keep some ingredients separated in a self-serve buffet style, that may also help.  Most important, though, is the communication, so that they can bring something for themselves if absolutely necessary.

Looking for tips?  Check out our holiday recipes here.

Photo by Sixteen Miles Out on Unsplash

3. welcoming environment

Similarly, many people have needs in regards to the physical space.  You may need to let someone with mobility aids sit at the part of the table with extra room, or closer to the bathroom.  Strong scents are a common issue for people with migraines or chemical sensitivities.  Let the guests arrive and then ask the group if it’s ok before lighting scented candles.

Photo by Element5 Digital on Unsplash

4. share the load

Finally, holidays should also be enjoyable by those hosting!  When planning a gathering, don’t be afraid to ask for others to pitch in.  Potlucks are a great option — you can make the main course and each person can sign up to bring a side or dessert.  This not only gives you a breather, but lets everyone feel involved.  If you go this route, remember to communicate with all cooks if you find out someone does have a dietary restriction.  You can also ask some guests to come early to help decorate, or enlist the kids in making creative decorations!


Even if it’s not perfect, any efforts you are able to make for accessibility will mean the world to the people who need it.  We wish you the warmest of holidays with those you love!

For more information, check out our guide to hosting loved ones with chronic illness here.

covid-19Thanksgiving
0
FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Ariela Paulsen

Ari struggled with a wide array of health problems for decades before being diagnosed with EDS/POTS/MCAS/etc at age 25. She began writing as a way to heal while spreading information and helping others through their own journeys. She loves being part of the Mighty Well team, sharing the stories and strengths of spoonies everywhere!

previous post
5 Gift Ideas for Your Friends With Chronic Illness
next post
Emily’s Care Team Tips

You may also like

Body Positivity Month

February 10, 2021

Body Image and Mental Health in the Time...

June 16, 2022

Chronic Illness Accommodations At Work

March 23, 2020

6 Tips for Talking to Family and Friends...

July 9, 2021

President Trump’s 2018 Budget: What’s Getting Cut in...

June 13, 2017

Holiday Recipes

December 9, 2020

5 Cooking Hacks for People With Chronic Illness

June 3, 2019

Avoid these 4 Types of Foods to Reduce...

August 16, 2021

Packing Lunch: 5 Tips for Easy, On-the-Go, Spoonie-Friendly...

September 11, 2019

Survival Guide: Managing Dietary Restrictions this Season

December 4, 2019

About Us

Hi, We're Mighty Well.

The mission of Mighty Well is to help patients and their caregivers turn sickness into strength. We are leading the global charge that changes the perception of patients from victims to fighters. We do this by improving the experience of being a patient. We create the products we wish we’d had: functional and stylish apparel and accessories that you can wear with confidence - and content that can help you get through the good times and the bad. It’s wellness you can wear.

Keep in touch

Facebook Twitter Instagram

Instagram

No images found!
Try some other hashtag or username

Recent Posts

  • Myasthenia Gravis Awareness Month

    June 22, 2022
  • Body Image and Mental Health in the Time of Covid

    June 16, 2022
  • Accessing Medical Supplies

    June 10, 2022
  • 4 Tips for Creating a Disability Inclusive Workplace

    June 3, 2022
  • Halsey Celebrates New Diagnoses

    May 26, 2022

Categories

  • Adaptive Wear
  • Chronic Illness
  • Featured
  • Friends in the Fight
  • General Wellness
  • Healthy Work Environments
  • Lyme Disease
  • Medical Devices
  • Mightier Together
  • Mighty Models
  • PICC Line
  • Popular Posts
  • Relationships and Support
  • The Undefeated
  • Treatment and Care
  • Uncategorized

Tags Cloud

Adulting Be Your Own Advocate blm Cancer Chronic Illness coronavirus coronoavirus covid-19 Daily Brain Fog Fix Diabetes Dysautonomia EDS feeding tube Feeding Tubes feeding tube supplies Gastroparesis holidays how does a feeding tube work immuno hoodie invisible illnesses Living Mighty Well Living With a PICC Living with a Port lyme disease MCAS Medications MedPlanner mental health Mental Illness mighty mask Mighty Pack mighty well mask Misdiagnosed neurodiversity New Years Organization Tips PICC PICC line cover PICCPerfect POTS Self-love self care case Support Systems TPN Tube Feeding

Our Story

Mighty Well - Founder - Emily Levy - Our Story

 

It all started with a cut off sock, a cute hockey player, and an 8 AM finance class. Oh, and a PICC Line. That moment inspired us to launch our first product, the PICCPerfect PICC Line Cover.

 

We know it stinks to feel defined by a diagnosis or feel like just a name on a doctor’s chart. Sounds like you? Read how our founder turned sickness into strength.

Recent Posts

  • Myasthenia Gravis Awareness Month

    June 22, 2022
  • Body Image and Mental Health in the Time of Covid

    June 16, 2022
  • Accessing Medical Supplies

    June 10, 2022

Join the Fight

Mighty Well's Facebook Page

Find us on Instagram

mightywell_

One positive that came out of the pandemic was tha One positive that came out of the pandemic was that many of us were able to have flexible working arrangements. As more states lift restrictions, heading back to work after months of working from home can be a huge adjustment for so many of us. Allowing time in our schedules for commuting, brushing up on our social skills, and making sure to have access to our medical supplies are just a few things we need to prepare for.

📸 Mighty Well ambassador @ameliablackwater headed back to the classroom last week and is working on finding a happy balance of working, socializing, and finding time for herself. 

If you've returned to work, what was the hardest part about making the transition back? 
.
.

#MightyWell #YouAreMighty #FriendsInTheFight #LiveMightyWell #Undefeated #InvisibleIllness #AutoimmuneDisease #ChronicPain #ChronicIllness #LymeDisease #LymeWarrior #Spoonie #SpoonieLife #SpoonieCommunity #AdaptiveWear #KeepFighting  #SupportSystem #PICC #PICCLine #Port #Autism #WFH #RemoteWork #Telecommute #MightyWellMask #Pandemic
Before you move forward always be sure to check th Before you move forward always be sure to check the price tag 💵
.
.
#MightyWell #YouAreMighty #FriendsInTheFight #LiveMightyWell #Undefeated #InvisibleIllness #AutoimmuneDisease #ChronicPain #ChronicIllness #LymeDisease #LymeWarrior #Spoonie #SpoonieLife #SpoonieCommunity #AdaptiveWear #KeepFighting  #SupportSystem #PICC #PICCLine #Port #MentalHealth #MentalHealthAwareness #Anxiety #Depression #PTSD
Life is full of uncertainties. But there will alwa Life is full of uncertainties. But there will always be a sunrise after every sunset 🌅

"The only certainty in life is uncertainty. I challenge you to embrace it. Even if it's just for a bit" ~@kali_rarerootedwarrior ☺️

Featuring: The Mighty Pack & Undefeated Hat
.
.
 #MightyWell #YouAreMighty #FriendsInTheFight #LiveMightyWell #Undefeated #InvisibleIllness #AutoimmuneDisease #ChronicPain #ChronicIllness #LymeDisease #LymeWarrior #Spoonie #SpoonieLife #SpoonieCommunity #AdaptiveWear #KeepFighting  #SupportSystem #PICC #PICCLine #Port #Gastroparesis #EDS #MastCellDisease
We really love this message from @lizandmollie. In We really love this message from @lizandmollie. In fact, we couldn't have said it better ourselves 🤗 Chronic illness is filled with ups and downs and everyday will look a little different. Know that you're doing your best even on the days that you are flaring, in pain or fatigued. Remember that we are here to support you on the good days, the bad days and all the ones in between 💚 
. 
.
#MightyWell #YouAreMighty #FriendsInTheFight #LiveMightyWell #Undefeated #InvisibleIllness #AutoimmuneDisease #ChronicPain #ChronicIllness #LymeDisease #LymeWarrior #Spoonie #SpoonieLife #SpoonieCommunity #AdaptiveWear #KeepFighting  #SupportSystem #PICC #PICCLine #Port #ChronicFatigue #MultipleSclerosis #Lupus #SickleCellAnemia #Endometriosis #POTS
Going into a medical procedure is always a little Going into a medical procedure is always a little scary. The best way to minimize fear and anxiety is to go in as prepared as you can! If you are feeling nervous for an upcoming PICC line placement procedure, head to our latest blog (link in bio) for some confidence boosting tips so you can feel ready to go! 

📷 Friend in the Fight @zebrajemma loves her PICCPerfect PICC Line Cover. It keeps her PICC line in place without adhesives and is so comfortable 🤗
.
.
 #MightyWell #YouAreMighty #FriendsInTheFight #LiveMightyWell #Undefeated #InvisibleIllness #AutoimmuneDisease #ChronicPain #ChronicIllness #LymeDisease #LymeWarrior #Spoonie #SpoonieLife #SpoonieCommunity #AdaptiveWear #KeepFighting  #SupportSystem #PICC #PICCLine #Port #IVIG
You can hardly wait to tell everyone what happened You can hardly wait to tell everyone what happened and  suddenly start talking and realize you don't know where the story is going...has this happened to anyone else lately 🙋‍♂️We've been there! Brain fog, perhaps the most universal aspect of illness, is exhausting. Cognitive disorders can be frustrating but take solace in knowing that you are not alone. We've all experienced that foggy feeling 🌫 and although it's not permanent, it can arrive quickly and definitely overstay its welcome. 

Looking for a little help getting the fog to lift? Our Brain Fog Fix Planner is more than just a reminder system. It includes space to track daily symptoms, hydration, thoughts and moments of gratitude amidst the daily challenges and is brought to you with input from our Friends in the Fight® Click the link in our bio to find out more. 
.
.
 #MightyWell #YouAreMighty #FriendsInTheFight #LiveMightyWell #Undefeated #InvisibleIllness #AutoimmuneDisease #ChronicPain #ChronicIllness #LymeDisease #LymeWarrior #Spoonie #SpoonieLife #SpoonieCommunity #AdaptiveWear #KeepFighting  #SupportSystem #PICC #PICCLine #Port #BrainFog #ChronicFatigue #CognitiveDisorder
We've got your back! Our Mighty Pack is the first We've got your back! Our Mighty Pack is the first medical backpack designed by patients, for patients. Our backpack is perfect for wheelchair users, as it has multiple strap locations to allow for flexibility. Nobody needs to know that you are carrying or wearing your essential medical devices and supplies. As patients ourselves, this is a product that we wish we’d had! 💪💚 Best of all this can be purchased with most FSAs (Flexible Spending Accounts) and HSAs (Health Savings Accounts) Click on the photo to take a look inside the Mighty Pack. 

📹 We are all smiles over this video of Mighty Well ambassador @rebellious_story & her dog Sherlock 😍
.
.
 #MightyWell #YouAreMighty #FriendsInTheFight #LiveMightyWell #Undefeated #Community #Health #Wellness #ButYouDontLookSick #InvisibleIllness #ChronicPain #ChronicIllness #ChronicIllnessWarrior #LymeDisease #LymeWarrior #Spoonie #SpoonieLife #SpoonieCommunity #LivingwithChronicIllness #Crohns #InfusionPump #MedicalBackpack #DiabeticLife #Gastroparesis #EnteralNutrition #Wheelchair #Tubefeeding #MedicalSupplies #TubeFed
The school year is quickly coming to a close and w The school year is quickly coming to a close and we wanted to send a Mighty shout out to all the students who worked so hard this year despite the challenges of COVID 🙌 We know that it was a challenging year with limited in-person learning, social distancing, and the requirement of face masks. We are so proud of all of you and you should be too! 💚

📸 Featuring The Mighty Well Mask
.
.
 #MightyWell #YouAreMighty #FriendsInTheFight #LiveMightyWell #Undefeated #InvisibleIllness #AutoimmuneDisease #ChronicPain #ChronicIllness #LymeDisease #LymeWarrior #Spoonie #SpoonieLife #SpoonieCommunity #AdaptiveWear #KeepFighting  #SupportSystem #PICC #PICCLine #Port #Pandemic #HomeSchool #Graduation #SocialDistancing
I’m proud to be trans and I’m proud to be disa I’m proud to be trans and I’m proud to be disabled — because you can’t put a boundary on being yourself ~@thedisabledhippie
 
Happy Pride Month to all of our Friends in the Fight in the LBGTQIA+ community 🏳️‍🌈
.
.
#MightyWell #YouAreMighty #FriendsInTheFight #LiveMightyWell #Undefeated #InvisibleIllness #AutoimmuneDisease #ChronicPain #ChronicIllness #LymeDisease #LymeWarrior #Spoonie #SpoonieLife #SpoonieCommunity #AdaptiveWear #Pride #LBGTQ #Transgender #LoveisLove #NonBinary #BiSexual #GayPride #Instalove
Follow on Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Linkedin

Mighty Well © 2018 All Rights Reserved


Back To Top