Thomas Macias, 51, died on June 21st, just one day after posting a regretful message for attending a barbeque a few weeks prior.
Family members have since said that Macias, who was diabetic, took social distancing measures very seriously. Rarely going out, and always wearing a mask, Macias was strict with his health.
Yet, in the weeks before his death, he decided to attend the barbeque, because he believed the virus to be easing. Macias’ niece, Danielle Lopez, in an interview with the Valley News said this change was as a direct result of governmental changes.
“He wasn’t really going out anywhere, which is why, when everything started becoming more lenient, and he thought it was OK to go out, immediately he went to spend time with his friends because he thought it was OK.”
At the barbeque, few wore masks and practiced proper social distancing.
He decided to get tested himself after hearing another attendee had contracted the disease.
Macias died just three days after testing positive.
Macias’ Social Media Post
One day prior to his death, he posted a message to social media, imploring people to keep social distancing. In it, he writes:
“Because of my stupidity, I put my mom and sisters and my family’s health in jeopardy. This has been a very painful experience.”
To warn others from making the same mistakes, he continues:
“This is no joke. If you have to go out wear a mask and practice social distancing.”
California’s Response to the Crisis
California, where Macias family lives, holds the second highest infection rate out of all the states in the US. In June, the Department of Public Health ordered stage three of re-opening. These restrictions were what caused Macias to think he was safe to attend the barbeque.
Thankfully, since Macias’ death, state governor Gavin Newsom is reversing some of the re-opening measures. Recently, bars have been shut down, alongside wineries and indoor restaurants.
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