By Kathy Mehuron
This week the Waitsfield Select Board again failed to uphold a mandate that people in town wear masks to protect others from the spread of viruses. Though such a resolution sailed through the towns that surround us here in The Valley, it’s the second time our board voted it down. Thank you, Jon Jamieson and Brian Shupe, for doing your level best to make it happen. Your efforts won’t be forgotten.
Waitsfield is my town too. It’s where I raised my children. And where I intend to live for the rest of my life. It’s a tight-knit and caring community, a place where we stand up for each other and often do the right thing, even if it’s inconvenient. So surprised was I at the outcome of the vote that I watched the entire meeting again when Mad River Valley Television made it available.
Having learned that acting is better than reacting, I ordered 100 yellow buttons that say, HIGH RISK, COVID-19. A while ago I was diagnosed with two cancers at the same time and my prognosis was poor. Treatment, though extensive and extended, saved my life. It also knocked my immune system out of whack. A good year is when I only come down with the flu twice. Pneumonia is always a possibility. I’m hoping that by wearing my high risk button I will inspire others because many of you know my face. I know I'm not just a statistic in your eyes. I know that I matter to you.
I’m a mother and wife. I’ve taught many of your children mathematics. I’m your friend. A neighbor. Not a percent. And there are many people in the Mad River Valley in the same boat. Vote or no vote, I know you won’t let us down.
My son, the doctor, said, “Mom. COVID-19 is a horrible way to die.”
I’m convinced, though we may have differing opinions, that none of the readers of The Valley Reporter want any members of our community dying before they have to.
I have 99 more buttons to give away. If you are at higher risk of death from COVID-19, or if you love someone who is, it’s yours free of charge. All I ask is that you wear it around town as a silent and peaceful testament that says, “We are here. There are many of us, young and old. Please protect me. I will protect you too.”
You can contact me on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. Our number is in the local phone book. I also have a website, www.marykathleenmehuron.com/, for my tutoring services and the books I write. Give me a shout and I will get you a button. And thank you, in advance, for wearing it.
Kathy Mehuron lives in Waitsfield.
