Woman Refuses Thanksgiving Invitation for Sister’s Sick Family

A woman has sparked a heated discussion on Reddit after refusing to allow her sister’s family, who are currently ill, to join her for Thanksgiving. The situation raises questions about health and family obligations during the holiday season.

In a post shared on the AITA subreddit, the woman explained that her nephew had recently been diagnosed with hand, foot, and mouth disease, and both her sister and brother-in-law had contracted the illness from him. With Thanksgiving approaching, her parents suggested moving the dinner to her home, believing it would be safe since her sister’s family would not be attending. The woman, however, had strong reservations about this arrangement.

“I told my mom that I did not want them in my house because they’re still contagious,” she wrote. With four children of her own, one of whom is particularly susceptible to illness, she expressed her valid concerns. “My kids have gotten HFM before, and it was horrible,” she added, emphasizing the severity of the situation.

Despite her objections, her mother suggested that her sister’s family could attend while wearing gloves and sitting separately. However, the woman feared that her young nephew, who is under two years old, would not be able to maintain the necessary precautions. “If they were so set on coming to my house for Thanksgiving, why couldn’t they have it at their house?” she argued, indicating her frustration with the lack of consideration for her family’s health.

The discussion escalated when her mother became emotional, stating she would not continue the conversation. In response, the woman questioned whether she was in the wrong for prioritizing her family’s health over the familial tradition of gathering for Thanksgiving.

Commenters on the post overwhelmingly supported her decision, with one user stating, “I guarantee you they will not attempt a single good practice at preventing the spread of disease.” Many suggested that she should not allow anyone into her home, including her parents, due to their recent exposure to illness. “Cook some food and drive it to their house,” another commenter advised, highlighting the importance of maintaining boundaries.

In an update to her original post, the woman shared that her father intervened on her behalf. He spoke with her sister and ultimately confirmed that they would not be attending the Thanksgiving dinner. “Thanksgiving will happen some other day when people aren’t contagious,” she concluded.

This incident illustrates the challenges families face when balancing health concerns with traditional holiday gatherings. As families navigate similar situations, the importance of communication and setting boundaries becomes clear, particularly in the context of public health.