To wear or not to wear?
I feel the need to document this new normal we are all living. Coronavirus / COVID19 has disrupted our lives in many ways and changed the way we work and live.
Friends in Asia have been asking me since the outbreak in Canada started – why don’t you wear a mask? In the past few days governments in the west have shifted their views on masks. Wearing a mask is not mandatory but recommended.
Here’s where I stand.
I’ve been a mask since mid-March when I go out. It protects me, it protects you and most of all it protects my elderly parents who I’m providing for.
I have 3 types of Masks:
- Surgical
- N95
- Homemade
A friend from China sent me some surgical masks. I wear one every time I go outside. To get gas, to go for a walk, to visit from parents. It’s comfortable and breathable. Bonus – I like the colour of these.
The grocery store is where I could potentially come into contact with the most people. The N95 really protects. I managed to get 5 of these on Amazon for $60 now they are probably $60/each. I hate the writing on this one and sometimes tie a scarf over it. Also, the elastics get stuck in my hair but I’m glad I have one for these trips.
I thought I would try and sew a mask and it turned out really well. I based my design on the surgical mask. Shopping tote fabric was the closest match to the surgical mask. I like that I can wash it in hot water and wear it again. I used a bendable rod from a discarded mask to it stays close to my face. For more protection you can double the fabric and insert a coffee filter in between.
Wearing sunglasses also helps protects from infection.
What will life be like when this is over? Will it ever be the same?
I wait for friends from Italy to send a letter from the future.
STAY SAFE • BE WELL • STAY HOME
modacarta 