Woman Refuses Thanksgiving Invite to Sister’s Sick Family

A woman has ignited a conversation about family dynamics and health after she declined to host her sister’s family for Thanksgiving due to illness. In a post on the AITA (Am I The Asshole) subreddit, she shared her decision to refuse entry to her sister’s family, who had recently contracted hand, foot, and mouth disease, a common viral infection.

The situation escalated when the woman learned that her sister’s son had been diagnosed with the illness about a week and a half prior, followed by both parents contracting it from their child. As her parents suggested moving Thanksgiving dinner to her home, she expressed her concerns about the contagious nature of the disease. “I have four children, one of whom gets sick easily,” she stated, recalling a previous experience with the disease that left her child in distress.

Despite her apprehension, her mother insisted that her sister’s family could attend while taking precautions, such as wearing gloves and sitting apart from others. The woman, however, remained unconvinced, noting that her sister’s young son, being under two years old, would likely not adhere to the necessary precautions. She voiced her frustration, asking why the gathering could not take place at her sister’s home, which had been exposed to the illness.

The woman’s mother responded with emotions, expressing her disappointment and refusing to continue the conversation. After further deliberation, she sought validation from the online community regarding her decision to prioritize her family’s health.

Responses from Reddit users largely sided with her stance. Many emphasized the importance of health and safety over familial obligations, with one user suggesting that she should not allow anyone from the exposed family into her home, including her parents. “I guarantee you they will not attempt a single good practice at preventing the spread of disease,” a commenter remarked, urging her to protect her family.

In an update to her original post, the woman revealed that her father had intervened, and after discussions with him and her sister, it was decided that the sick family would not attend Thanksgiving dinner. Her father agreed to speak with her mother to ease the situation, indicating that the holiday would be celebrated at a later date when everyone was healthy.

This incident highlights the delicate balance between family obligations and personal health concerns, especially during the holiday season. As families navigate similar dilemmas, it raises questions about the lengths individuals are willing to go to protect their loved ones while maintaining family connections.