Freedom to Thrive: A Covid-19 Retablo

The topic “Freedom to Thrive” evokes strong emotions in me, stemming from the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic. The disinformation campaign that undermined the US public health system lead to widespread misinformation, loss of life, and ongoing risks.

My retablo’s first scene depicts February 2020, when US Surgeon General Jerome Adams falsely claimed that masks were ineffective and even dangerous. This misleading message persists today, with some people still believing it and spreading false information on social media.

I contracted Covid-19 in February 2020, after attending an international trade show in Las Vegas. My husband recovered, but I suffered severe disability and was forced to close my business and studio. It took 2.5 years for doctors to diagnose the underlying issue – a rare third coronary artery that was blocked due to the infection. I underwent a triple bypass in July 2022.

The third scene of my retablo shows me getting vaccinated and wearing a mask to prevent future infections. Despite having had Covid-19, immunity doesn’t last long, and masks have proven effective in preventing subsequent illnesses. Given the poor handling of the pandemic by the administration and the resulting loss of life, I worry about the future. What will happen the next time a pandemic strikes? Will we be prepared to protect our “Freedom to Thrive”? I urge everyone to take simple precautions, like wearing masks when sick, to help prevent the spread of illnesses.