In 2011, I became too sick to teach.  I was diagnosed with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, among many other issues.  I had to wear a mask just to leave my home.  Very quickly, I saw first-hand that students sometimes learn how to tease and bully from their parents.  I was shocked to see mom's with their pre-teens and teenagers point and poke fun of the strange looking lady wearing a mask.  If the teasing can hurt me as an adult, I could only imagine how hard it is for students who are constantly picked on.  I was bullied by classmates, but, it wasn't relentless and every day.  My sickness has made me so much more sensitive to how people with disabilities are treated.  Sadly, things did not improve after COVID had everyone wearing a mask.  I still get mocked for weraing a mask while driving, however, people do not understand that chemicals in the air can cause rapid anaphylaxis and seizures.  I would prefer to keep other drivers around me safe.  I learned to educate every time I heard a child ask their parents why I was wearing a mask.  A lack of understanding opens the door for ridicule.  We can do so much better!