REBUTTAL: Responsibilities toward all

First, I want to commend Janet Cooke, RN, for her clear and concise explanation of why more first responders and hospital personnel are at risk for becoming infected with COVID.

Second, Mr. Schwirian, I am not from Idaho either. I am retired and have lived here for more than 20 years. I appreciate you and I “are just trying to live our lives the best we can.”

I have no intention interfering with your life unless you infringe on mine. I respect your right to not wear a mask — except when you are in public with close contact with other human beings. Either you or they are contact spreaders if either is not wearing a mask. That is fact…not my fact…proven fact.

Your representations about people who wear masks as “scared and helpless people” hiding somewhere in their home is a herring being cast — and you offer several — to get a reaction. It is inaccurate and unfair toward anyone who must live in our current environment and situation.

Each of us, you and I included, are supposed to respect other residents in our community. It is disturbing that you believe your right to not wear a mask abridges your responsibility to care for anyone else.

I will continue to wear the masks my grandchildren made for me. I will remain safe in the community and respect your right to not wear a mask. And I will hope that, if you contract COVID, you will recognize and understand how you abridged your responsibility to yourself, your family and the community.

The first responders and health care workers will not withhold the care you require, despite your disrespect for us and them.

RALPH D. SHAY

Coeur d’Alene