Meet Sam. Sam is an LGBTQI2S-identified 75-year-old. Throughout their life, Sam faced criminalization and pathologization of their identity. They endured harassment, violence and various forms of conversion therapy which attempted to alter who they are attracted to. Many of Sam’s friends had to hide their truths to get by, but Sam fought hard for their freedoms. Still, they faced discrimination, bullying and prejudice when accessing healthcare, with family and at work. Today, Sam lives alone. They don’t have children to help them as they age and find themself relying more and more on their chosen family and friends. After decades of workplace discrimination, Sam lives modestly, unsure if their savings will be enough to last the rest of their life. Even before the pandemic, Sam felt isolated, and with physical distancing regulations, they feel even more alone. They worry about facing long-term care and wonder if they will have to go back into the closet after all this time. |
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