Warriors–what a whole new battle for us to wage. As we get into our new normal–our new rhythm of life called “social distancing”–this saga continues to evolve and ramp up. Nevertheless, I am reminded of many more things that I personally am thankful for at this juncture:
Since I have a little more time on my hands, on inquiry, my newspaper editor agreed that I may increase this holistic wellness column to weekly instead of biweekly–providing some support and encouragement through these challenging times.
– NY Governor Cuomo continues his calm, intelligent, helpful, honest, and confident daily briefings–I SO appreciate his voice of reason, clarity and hope!
Better toilet paper stock (at least there was today).
– Dr. Fauci’s voice of truth, science and reason.
– The mail and other delivery systems are available and operative–I’m enjoying sending cards out again more routinely across the miles.
– Better weather is helping us get outside to periodically alleviate some of our cabin fever.
– Being able to tune in old shows like Andy of Mayberry that show simpler times even though Barney and Gomer stressed things out periodically.
– Mom has rallied after another scary episode at her care facility. Now that she is up in her wheelchair again, I am visiting from her dining room window as I take my daily walks.
– Joel, my wonderful, gay friend, out in Washington state has moved to another care facility since his old one was going toward 100% memory care. We have been able to stay fairly well connected via phone calls. Today he shared he has had another epiphany regarding who he really is and he is excited that his past shame of telling folks who he really is has evolved into confidence. And he’s hanging several rainbows outside of his door with pride and connecting with more new folks in his new facility.
– Learning about things we can do locally to support the viral war effort and to feel useful:
Calling all Sewers to Make Cotton Masks: In this day and age it seems crazy to have to consider this for our families as well as our medical folks, however, like WWII and the bandage effort–this is our WW-C effort. As a result, there are sewing groups all around our country and locally making this happen for their families and communities.
In fact we have a mask hero in our community–Shar McGlynn. Shar used to own a quilting shop here outside of town, however, once her husband was given a terminal diagnosis she discontinued her business. After 4 ½ years of caring for her husband in hospice, (who passed two months ago) she realized what a mask shortage they were dealing with. So she found some patterns and began making them for her endeared hospice workers. And now many others joining her effort.
Admittedly, as a nurse diagnosed with asthma while serving overseas with the AF, and being at high risk otherwise too–OK my big denial deal–age. So I have been unsure how I could contribute, however this service work I can definitely handle with my basic sewing skills.
As all this brouhaha continued to ramp up I initially wondered how effective (protective) these homemade masks might be, however, according to the CDC, fabric masks are a crisis response option when other supplies have been exhausted. More recent guidelines have suggested these cotton masks may prove somewhat protective against others, however, it is more protective towards others. And since we have been told to be good citizens by acting as if we are the ones infected–this is in keeping with that perspective.
“Prior to modern disposable masks, washable fabric masks were standard use for hospitals,” said Dawn Rogers, MSN, RN, FNP-C, Patient Safety & Infection Prevention Office. “We will be able to sterilize these masks and use them repeatedly as needed. While it’s less than ideal, we want to do our best to protect our staff and patients during this pandemic.”
At the Joann.com site you will find instructions and patterns as well as a video that is helpful. Once you’ve done a few, they share that it typically takes 15-20 min per mask. These can be sewn by hand if no machine is available.
Here’s what you will need: 100% pre-washed cotton; ¼ “ elastic; light-weight fusible interfacing; and pipe cleaners.
PS. There are some supply shortages out there, however, to order material and/or supplies online through Amazon and Overstock.
Since I have quilted in my past, I was amazed to find lots of fun printed cotton material options I’ll be able to use.
Hey, there are ways of making masks out of padded bras (36C is best) as well and you can google how to do that. There is some sewing modification that needs to happen with this option–take a look and then you decide.
Since we are making masks for our families and local community, please contact me via email: sjhillesheim@gmail.com or 719-213-9963 for where to bring your masks and gather other supplies donated to our effort. Currently, there is a drop-off box at the Municipal building downtown (450 S. Main St., Richland Center) with a pattern available regarding how to make them as well.
Before this crazy virus got so widespread, one of my sons sent me a Facebook picture of two oriental teanagers sharing a padded bra for protection, however the cups were still connected so it looked pretty humorous. Well, even though humor is always welcome–things are potentially gearing up for a much more serious scentario, so let’s help the effort any way possible.
Meanwhile, I’m admittedly feeling rather manicky at times–and surreal to be sure. One day at a time, Warriors! And let’s be good citizens along the way. Here are some wise words from Gov. Cuomo recently that I love:
“Socially distant but spiritually connected.”
Warriors–let’s do our part with social distancing and remain safe–one day at a time!