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This column reflects the opinion of the writer. Learn about the differences between a news story and an opinion column.

Why not masks?

About 11 years ago I was diagnosed with emphysema and COPD. About 6 years ago they told me my heart was in bad enough condition I needed a pacemaker. Last year they told me I have stage 3 cancer - in both lungs.

But I don’t have a problem with wearing a mask in public places. When I go for treatments at Cancer Care Northwest, some patients pull a cart with an oxygen tank behind them while others carry a shoulder bag with an oxygen pump in it. EVERYONE WEARS MASKS!!! Some people claim they have a “medical reason” to not wear a mask. In fact, I hear there is a “business” of supplying completely fake ID cards that claim the holder has a medical condition which forgives the need for that person to wear a mask. EXACTLY what kind of medical condition precludes wearing a mask?

Again, if having lung cancer, emphysema, and needing supplementary oxygen don’t make breathing so hard you can wear a mask, WHAT DOES?

Mike Czechowski

Spokane

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