I shouldn’t have to make you a face mask.
I shouldn’t be spending my time learning about micron particles and filtration, researching which materials might keep you safe. Might. My Amazon cart shouldn’t be filled with vacuum cleaner bags, HVAC filters, and interfacing that I can shove between these pretty layers of cotton in hopes that it will protect you.
I’m sad you don’t have what you need and are left to find your own. “Can I give you $10-12 for one? That’s what other people are charging.” Other people are charging?! I’m sorry people are taking advantage of your vulnerability and asking you to pay a markup of 10x the cost of the materials.
I will make one for you. I will keep making them until I run out of every material I have. I will stay up late into the night to protect your life because you’ll stay up all night to save mine.
I make them because I send my own husband off every morning into the healthcare field and PRAY he is protected. Our children used to greet him every night by jumping into his arms and yelling, “Daddy’s home!” Now they run from him and scream, “Don’t touch Daddy! He’s covered in germs.”
I make them because my dear friends are working the front lines in the emergency room, rushing to help confirmed and suspected cases even without the protection they need. They go in anyway.
I make them because my parents are over the age of 60 and in the most vulnerable group for complications. They still need food and supplies. How do we keep them safe?
I make them because my 3-month-old son has an airway disorder. This virus would be devastating for him.
We all know someone who is vulnerable. The virus marches on despite our best efforts. These homemade masks might not be enough to stop the spread, but we have to try. We don’t have any other options. They’re saving the real ones for a rainy day, but it’s pouring and we’re all getting soaked.
I will make you a mask, but I shouldn’t have to. For that, I am sorry.
