Lenzie folk rally to make masks for Deafblind people after appeal in Herald

More than 1,000 protective masks are on the way to support deafblind people, thanks to an appeal in the Herald.

Two weeks ago, well known volunteer for Deafblind Scotland, based in Lenzie, Drena O’Malley MBE told us at least 1,600 masks were needed.

As a result, six local seamstresses offered to get out their sewing machines and produce washable masks.

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Drena said: “So far, the big-hearted seamstresses – Adele, Edith, Fiona, Maggie, Angela, and Aileen – are on target to make 385 masks. These will be on their way to deafblind people by the end of this week.

“The main problem for them has been accessing elastic for around the ears.

“In addition, a lady called Lesley, who works at Lenzie Meadow Early Learning Centre, decided to help by obtaining 20 face shields from Print2help and 100 already made washable masks from south of the border.

“Lesley’s mum has recently moved into a hospice, and can’t be visited at the moment, so she thought she would try to help her local community. And kind-hearted business Hamble Distribution in Glasgow has gifted a box of 600 mass produced cloth masks which will help meet the need. A huge thank you to everyone.”

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She added: “The selflessness of guide/communicators who require to get up close and personal to communicate with deafblind people using hands on signing during the pandemic has received a little well-deserved recognition of the specialist work they do.”

Just now, all deafblind people are shielding during Covid-19. Drena said: “They are only going out for exercise or important appointments. However, when a guide/communicator is working with them, she or he is required to wear PPE and need to change it when they move onto another deafblind person. A mask will make deafblind people feel more confident about going out with a guide, the highlight of their week.”

She added: “If anyone else wants to help provide masks or to gift any, there’s still time to get involved. The mask material should be hot, washable, double thickness, with elastic round the ears and able to expand around the nose and mouth.” Email Drena at omal [email protected].

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