Went to my family doctor today for a physical. Entering the doctor’s office, I saw approximately thirty patients sitting quietly except for one chap who was coughing up a lung. This coughing reminded me to put on my mask right away. So I was protected, but what of the other patients? So I went up to the counter and asked for a mask. The nurse looked at me and said You already have one. I replied it was for someone else.
Walked up to the fella and asked him politely to put on his mask or stand outside until the staff called him in. That should have been the procedure of the medical facility. The fellow just stared at me like I was speaking a language he did not understand. So I showed him the mask on my face and mimicked it being placed onto his asap. He got upset, saying no, no, he will not wear a mask. We had everyone’s attention by now. My voice increased as I told him he was endangering his fellow patients, and that wearing a mask was safe and a responsible thing to do. Just before it moved in another direction, I was miraculously called into the doctor’s office. 15 minutes later, and a lecture of two as well from the staff, I re-entered the lounge area. More than half of the patients were wearing masks, and the cougher was outside having a smoke. Did I achieve something, folks? I hope so.
My concern came from lived experience, you see. I knew 17 friends, business associates and their families who died from COVID. The Pandemic was a severe learning environment for us all. I live with this etched into my memory and I live the protection procedures prescribed long ago. Wear a mask, stay away from people who are coughing and wash your hands a lot. I have very clean hands.
There is fear that a second lockdown may happen. Viruses of all types surround us. You may feel yourself immune to one, folks, but there certainly is one you do not have immunity to. A virus mutates, making it more dangerous than previously noted. In the Congo, Ebola is said to be mutating and spreading. Imagine horrors upon horrors if this killer can spread by airborne means? Remember, hope for the best but always prepare for the worst, friends.
You learnt it a few years ago, but here we go again…
Wear Masks when Necessary
Be aware of the environment you visit
If you see someone in need, call a professional
Respect the health requirements of others
Wash your hands often.
If you go to a hospital, medical facility or large gathering, be prepared to protect yourself and others.
Simple, effective methods still needed in 2026.
Respectfully
Steven Kaszab
Bradford, Ontario
