A _big_ thanks to Craig Smith pointing out the dangers of too little
protection from airborne particles.  I can personally relate the
desperate need for this, as I am 58 years old and according to my
doctors currently suffer from end stage COPD (chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease).  It is incurable, irreversible, and progressive.
Needless to say, I was forced into retirement.

In my younger years I was immune and immortal and had the "It'll never
happen to me" syndrome.  Well, my ignorance and stupidity -- and my
recalcitrant attitude toward society trying to baby-sit me from myself
-- caught up with my arrogance.

Trust me -- whether it's the noisy compressor making oxygen all day
and all night in our apartment, or taking portable oxygen whenever
I venture outside on my scooter (I can walk, but not very far), life
has become a challenge 24/7.  It ain't worth taking the risk, so
please, if you have to sacrifice something to afford protection for
your lungs, please use your money wisely.  Regardless of what they say,
misery does not love company.

Roy Ulrich