Ky. weekly editor who sent special edition to whole county after its first covid-19 case writes why she will wear a mask

Becky Barnes

The editor of a rural Kentucky weekly, who mailed out a special edition of the paper to everyone in the county after its first covid-19 case was confirmed, explained in a recent editorial why she believes wearing a mask and following other social distancing measures is important.

Becky Barnes, editor of The Cynthiana Democrat, wrote plainly and repeatedly that she wears a mask because "I'm not ready to die."

She admits readily that she's not a scientific expert, but notes that President Trump and Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear aren't, either, and that they—and we—must rely on such experts to guide policy and action.

"I will follow those guidelines, not like a lamb to slaughter, but like a woman who will protect her family. I have elderly parents and in-laws whom I love very much. It would kill me to pass something along to them," Barnes writes.

As the government starts loosening some restrictions and opening businesses back up, that will increase the chances of infection. So, Barnes writes, it's better to be safe than sorry: "I will wear a mask because someone who knows more than I says it will help. I will wear a mask not because I am required to do so, but because it may help. This is all new. We are learning as we go. But if there is a chance it will help – I will wear a mask – for you."