A selection of masks made by Marianne Brodo of Radiant Mermaid Designs that she will donate to healthcare workers who are having trouble finding personal protecion equipment at work. The masks have a pocket for a disposable layer. Photo courtesy of Marianne Brodo
By Beth David, Editor
They say it takes a village, but Marianne Brodo usually says it takes an island. When the West Island woman saw that healthcare workers were having trouble getting masks, Ms. Brodo put her sewing talents to work. She found a pattern and started sewing, making masks that even have a pocket for a disposable layer.
Mr. Brodo has donate more than 200 masks to people she knows who are in the healthcare profession, and they are using them.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created a shortage of personnel protection equipment (PPE), such as masks, shields, and disposable suits, nation wide. Many healthcare professionals, especially those not giving direct care to COVID-19 patients, are using home-made masks.
Ms. Brodo said she used a pattern she found on https://www.makers habitat.com/ and made some of her own adjustments to the pattern. She operates Radiant Mermaid Designs, which specializes in the creation of custom decals, clothing, and items.
Lauren Viera, who works in a chemistry lab, was happy to get some of the new masks.
“I think Marianne is awesome for what she does and I’m glad you are giving her a shout-out,” said Ms. Viera in a message. “Let’s focus on what people are doing to help in this crisis!”
Lauren Viera (middle) and her coworkers in a local hospital chemistry lab wear the masks made and donated by Marianne Brodo of Radiant Mermaid Designs. “We truly appreciate all your hard work and dedication to the cause…plus we look smashing,” wrote Ms. Viera on Facebook. Photo courtesy of Lauren Viera.
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