FARMINGTON – Aimee Degroat, University Store manager at the University of Maine at Farmington, and her partner, Dane Kaiser, were both adjusting to the new normal of self-isolating at home when they discovered a kit to make COVID-19 masks for sale on the Auburn Fabric Warehouse website.
Kaiser ordered a couple of kits even though he hadn’t sewn since eighth-grade Home Economics class. He took a quick refresher on YouTube, borrowed a sewing machine and started sewing at the kitchen table. Though challenging at the start, he completed both kits, with each kit making 25 face covering masks. All that was left was for Degroat and Kaiser to ship them where they are needed most.
“This is truly a labor of love,” said Degroat. “It’s times like this that bring out the very best in people. We want to help people protect themselves, encourage others to be involved, and at the same time, support our local businesses.”
They brought some of the masks to the Rangeley Health Center, Franklin Memorial Hospital, and mailed others to caregivers in the nursing field or relatives with compromised health situations.
“Everyone is so grateful, said Degroat. They appreciate having the supplies they need, but having someone make something because they care about you, is a special comfort.”
Her sister is helping with the effort by purchasing more kits for them to continue to sew and give to those in need.
“As a special thank you, Dane made a mask just for my sister’s little girl, and one for her Doc McStuffins doll, too!” said Degroat.
Anyone interested in the mask kits can find them at https://fabricwarehouse.com/upholstery-fabric/covid-19-mask-kit-25-count-community-project/).
Glad this lady is doing this. Correct me if I am wrong, these mask will only prevent the one wearing the mask from spreading germs not breathing anything in?
Great story Aimee. Thank you for your kindness!
Townie- well actually not so much, or, it depends on what the sick person is ill from
It is lovely to see the community effort
When a mask does not fit tightly germs escape around the edges. In this weeks Annals of internal Medicine there were more virus particles on the outside of the mask in a small sample of COVID positive patients than on the inside
Viruses are tiny They can go through these masks but they mostly go around from the force of the cough
The mask in the photo fits pretty well but gaps below the eyes
On the other hand , they may keep you from touching your face VIruses enter through the mouth and nose( sore throat comes first with most colds)
They were designed to keep physicians/nurses secretions from contaminating the patient
They probably do help prevent the spread of colds ,and for influenza, I believe there is evidence in reducing spread.
COVER YOUR COUGH with your inner elbow sleeve. And wash your hands alot Better than sanitizer
If you are not sick and are just out and about they may do a little good .
The bottom line is they cannot hurt and remind us to practice respectful hygiene
Awesome guys! You both have huge hearts. Keep up the good work.
Been wondering where a person might purchase a washable cloth mask in the Farmington area.
Bud, I’ve reached out to the editor to see if they’ll share my email address with you so we can connect and figure out a way to get you some masks. We are donating all masks – they are free.
Email sent to you.