BY MATT MACKINDER
Clarkston News Editor

Lisa Kemp worked for 35 years as a healthcare supervisor, but even after she retired from Michigan Medicine, she hasn’t stopped providing care to those that need it.
A Clarkston resident, Kemp has been making masks since March, donating them to individuals and local organizations such as the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department, Oakland County Health Network, Third Circle Inc., Personalized Support Service, Independence Township Senior Center, and the Hospital Maskcover Task Force Facebook group.
“I decided to do this back in March, even when the recommendation was to not wear masks,” said Kemp. “I was pretty sure that recommendation would change, based on my career in healthcare. I know how important PPE is. I kind of wish I was back on the job so I can help out. I have a lot of empathy for my friends and former colleagues on the front lines.”
Kemp noted two of her daughters work in the medical field and another daughter works at Meijer stocking groceries, so she has a lot of personal concerns for the health and safety of her family.
“Additionally, I have a special needs stepson so I’m very worried about him and the staff that takes care of him,” Kemp said. “I also know that masks would not be available to the general public so I want to do what I can to protect as many people as possible, especially the elderly and those who are vulnerable due to their medical condition. I’ve been doing as much as I can to supply masks to everyone who request them as well as any other needs I see online.”
With all the time and supplies Kemp uses, one would think she is turning a profit. Nothing could be further from the truth, however.
“I definitely don’t expect anything in return,” said Kemp. “I’m just happy that my nearly lifelong sewing hobby is useful. I haven’t asked for nor accepted a penny for a single mask I have made. I have mailed them to friends and family all over the country at my expense. I have given large volumes of masks to some local organizations. I have a large stash of fabric that has come in very handy for this.
“With that being said, I am only one person and I don’t think I’m doing anything special. I’m just doing my part. I have a whole network of friends locally and around the country who are also sewing masks and we help each other out with extra supplies because things like thread, elastic and fabric are in very short supply.”
She added when at the post office there is usually at least one other person there mailing masks as well. “It’s very gratifying to see people coming together.”
Kemp said giving back has always been part of her personal morals and values.
“Growing up, my parents were involved in many service organizations and we, as a family, would participate in activities to help other people,” explained Kemp. “We were raised to appreciate what we have and that it was our responsibility to help others. My sister is also sewing masks. Through my adult years, I tried to instill those same values in my own children, and we would participate in church and community activities to assist others.
“I have a wonderful husband (Pat) who supports me in these endeavors and the time I need to do them. He is a very giving person.”
Kemp added while demand for masks has slowed recently, she is always on call.
“I remain ready to provide masks or surgical caps where I see a need or I get a request to do so,” she said.