Mask makers provide extra layer of protection

“My daughter was on Instagram or YouTube, and she was watching this video showing someone utilizing a homemade mask. She came to me and said, ‘Let’s do this, Mom. We can do this.’ I didn’t have much fabric on hand. So I called up a friend who works on a lot of projects, and she was able to bring me some extra fabric. We found a pattern online, and we started making medical masks for anybody in need.

“I posted about it on Facebook. Just through that network of social media, I’ve been connecting with all sorts of people. Because the current supply of masks is so low, we’ve had a huge outreach from local medical professionals: respiratory therapists, nurses in assisted living facilities, and even a nurse working seven 12s at a prison right now. There’s a shortage of masks not just in the ERs, but across the entire medical platform.

“Those that I’ve spoken with are really welcoming our masks. For a lot of them, the masks that they’re issued may have to last all shift. So they’re going to wear our masks over the issued ones as an added layer of protection.

“We’re trying to spend a few hours a day working on the masks. My son even sewed a few straight seams the other day, and he wants to learn how to use my sewing machine. My daughter has kind of taken the reins for the project. She’s really involved in service. She loves to volunteer her time when she can. She isn’t one who wants to sit idly and do nothing. So during this time when we’re having to stay home because of the coronavirus, it’s kept her pretty busy. I’m really proud of her. Plus, it’s been fun for me to work with her on it.”

— Holly Carraway

Holly and her daughter, Cori, also were asked to help make masks for Chambers County Sheriff’s Office and Mont Belvieu Police Department. Anyone interested in getting the pattern can contact Holly on Facebook.