Many of those people live among us, have a job or school age children.
Noemie Sunnen is one of them. She has ALS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a serious degenerative disease affecting nerve cells and muscle control, and leading to gradual paralysis. At this stage, Noemie has only 50% of her lung function remaining. Any infection could lead to irreversible damage, possibly robbing her of the ability to breathe on her own. Her family, especially her children, constantly worry that she might catch the virus.
The freedom of some comes at the cost of others. Reduced mask wearing in public spaces means vulnerable people now have to be more cautious than ever. While FFP2 masks can protect from infection, this is most effective if everyone is wearing them. Now that this is no longer guaranteed, risk groups are being driven back into isolation. Every trip to the doctor, the pharmacy or the supermarket carries a risk.
Noemie and Shirley Feider-Rohen, president of the ALAN, which raises awareness for rare diseases, want to draw attention to the toll this takes on vulnerable people in our society. The exhibition RaReflections by the ALAN and photographer Sophie Margue can be seen at the CHEM until the end of May.
Video report in Luxembourgish:
