A college student in Kentucky has started making face masks for deaf and hard of hearing people to protect them against the coronavirus outbreak.
Ashley Lawrence posted about her masks on Facebook, explaining that conventional masks are not suited to those with hearing loss because it means their mouths are covered and therefore they cannot communicate via lip reading if, say, they cannot use sign language.
Equally, it means they might not be able to understand someone who is wearing a mask given they cannot see their mouth.
In order to combat that, Lawrence has produced masks herself that feature a clear window over the mouth.
The student’s post reads: “So right before the pandemic, masks were made and made commercialised to help people with hearing loss have access to their doctor’s mouths for lip reading/speech reading.
“Because of the shortage of masks, everyone started making their own, so I thought: why not make them for all??
“This is how we stay #HealthyatHome Governor Andy Beshear Andy Beshear #TeamKentucky.”
Since posting about the masks on Monday, Lawrence has shared an update to say that she has been “completely overwhelmed” by how people have responded to her masks.
“We’ve updated the pattern for the mask to be easier to make,” she added.
“We’d love to make you some, or send you the pattern to make your own!! We are #TogetherKentucky.”
Lawrence’s post has garnered hundreds of shares and comments, with people praising her initiative.
“I love, love this! I am hard of hearing and would greatly benefit from professionals using this type of mask,” commented one person.
“I have never been able to hear people when they are wearing a mask.”
Another added: “This is amazing, how wonderful! There is such a need for these!”
