The first time I wore a mask, I was anxious too

Vernon /
| 22 Aug 2021 | 06:56

    To the Editor:

    If this letter can help just one child or adult feel more comfortable about wearing a mask to help curb the spread of Covid-19, it will be worth it.

    More than a year ago, when masks were first encouraged, I went to the Walmart with my first mask. As I put it on, I felt anxious. I felt like I had to take deep breaths. I started to feel a little warm from all that deep breathing.

    But then, I told myself to stop. It’s only some cloth. I made myself breathe normally. No deep breaths. I concentrated on why I’d come to the store, the task at hand, not the fact that I was wearing something over the lower part of my face.

    And you know what? Everything was fine! I no longer felt warm! There was no impediment to my breathing!

    I finished my shopping and never looked back. Now it’s no problem to wear a mask. If you are hesitant, please learn from my very real experience.

    Joanne M. Phillips

    Vernon