ANTWERP – With only 20% of normal lung capacity, Sien Lagae was extremely wary of viruses before anyone in Belgium heard of the coronavirus — and has long relied on caregivers to help her get dressed, clean her house and provide home health care services.
Then one of her caregivers mentioned she had just paid 10 euros ($10.67) for a mask to protect herself and others from the virus.
Lagae's hobbies happen to include sewing — and inspiration struck. "I suddenly had the idea to make some face masks for my physiotherapist so that she could protect herself and her patients better,” Lagae said.
What started as a one-person operation about a week ago has mushroomed into a small army of home sewing Belgian mask makers.