Young Reader's Day

 "The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more you learn, the more places you'll go." ~ Dr. Seuss, "I Can Read With My Eyes Shut!"

By Diane Forrest

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As I was preparing for this article - this joke came to mind...

The new school librarian decided that instead of checking out children's books by writing the names of borrowers on the book cards herself, she would have the youngsters sign their own names. She would then tell them they were signing a 'Contract' for returning the books on time.

Her first customer was a third grader who looked surprised to see a new librarian. He brought three books to the desk and shoved them across to the librarian, giving her his name as he did so.

The librarian pushed the books back and told him to sign them out. The boy laboriously printed his name on each book card and then handed them to her with a look of utter disgust.

Before the librarian could even start her speech, he said scornfully, "The other librarian we had knew how to write."

Working with young children first learning to read can be a very rewarding time.  When my son was born, my aunt, who is a school teacher, told me right off to read to him every day.  So I started reading to him when he was just a few days old.  I didn't have a big supply of children's books at the time, so I just read the same book over and over again, until I was able to get more.  I would make weekly trips to the store and buy a few baby books at a time.  These were mostly small books with plastic pages with colorful pictures on it.  The selections were very limited, so I ended up writing my own stories and coloring pictures for him to look at.  As he got older, I would take him to the library every week.  I had a large tote bag that we would fill with dozens of books at a time, and come home and read them all over and over again.  By the time he started preschool he had already been introduced to thousands of books and this made his transition to school much easier for him. He continued through school reading and learning, and still to this day he will read books to increase his knowledge.

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Today is Young Reader's Day. It is so important to encourage reading while children are still young.  When I was in school, each day after lunch my teacher would read a chapter of a book to us.  I still remember those stories today, and how she made those books come alive.  Now when there is a gift giving occasion for the children I know, I always send books so they can enjoy them over and over again, and expand their knowledge.   If you have any kids in your life, consider getting them a book for Christmas or just because.  If you don't have any young readers, you might want to volunteer at a local school, library or even church and read a story to them during story time.  Not only will you be rewarded by the smiles and excitement in their faces, but you will get the satisfaction of knowing that for brief time, you made a difference in someone else's life.

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Perioperative Nurse Week

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By Nurse Diane

If you have ever had to have surgery, you know it can be a very stressful time.  Just the thought of being "knocked out" and "going under the knife" is enough to send your heart racing.  A friend of mine recently had surgery, having a pacemaker inserted in his heart. While the procedure is a simple one, he was still understandably nervous.  The morning of his surgery, the nurse came to his room, explained the procedure to him, and answered his questions, trying to calm his fears.  Once he was transported to the surgical suite, the scrub nurse welcomed him, positioned him on the table, draped the area to be operated on, cleaned and shaved the area and spoke with him to ease his fears.  Once he was under the anesthesia, the nurses continued to work.  They assist the surgeon by handing him the tools he needs, another takes notes of things that are going on, including vital signs and patient conditions. There is another nurse who keeps count of the supplies being used such as the instruments and gauze pads.  After the surgery is completed, the nurse cleans the wound, applies the dressing, while the nurse who is keeping count of things, goes back to check to make sure that everything that went in the body during the surgery, came back out once the incision was closed. All the while there is the nurse there checking vital signs and making sure that the patient is tolerating the procedure.

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Once the wound is dressed and all instruments and supplies are counted for, the patient is wheeled into the recovery area.  The post op nurse will continue to monitor vital signs and check the dressing to make sure there is no excessive bleeding or any other problems.  When the patient wakes up, the nurse is the first person they see.  Once they have determined that the effects of anesthesia have worn off, and vital signs are good, the patient is returned to their hospital room.  Before the nurse leaves for the day, she returns to the room, explains the procedures that had taken place, answer any questions, and makes a final check on the patient's condition.

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Depending on how many surgeries there scheduled for that day, the nurses can have a very long and hard day, but they take time with each patient to make sure their fears are calm, and their condition is good. My friend was no different.  His procedure went well, the nurses performed their duties like a well-oiled machine, and he was discharged home the next day.

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This week is Perioperative Nurse Week.  If you have recently had surgery, or expecting to have a procedure soon, don't forget to let the nurses involved in your care that you appreciate their commitment to patient care and safety and for making your experience a less stressful one.

Use your Common Sense Day

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By Diane Forrest

When I was in school I knew this girl - she was so smart, made straight A's, got a full scholarship for college, got a great job, but she was dumb as a brick!  She was book smart, but had no common sense.  I’m sure you know people that you can say the same thing about.  It makes me wonder, how can they be so smart in one area, but completely clueless in everyday life?  I can only guess that their mind is so concentrated on one thing, that they let the smaller tasks slide by.

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Today is Use your Common Sense Day.  This day was started in honor of Will Rogers, who made a legacy of spouting out words of wisdom.  One of my favorites is if you want a fast way to double your money, take it out, fold it in half and stick it back in your wallet.  Below are some common sense warnings that have been found on regular every day products:

• Remove the plastic wrapper." -- The first instruction on a bag of microwave popcorn; to see the instructions, one first has to remove the plastic wrapper and unfold the pouch.
• "Open packet. Eat contents." -- Instructions on a packet of airline peanuts.
• "Remove wrapper, open mouth, insert muffin, eat." -- Instructions on the packaging for a muffin at a 7-11.
• "Use like regular soap." -- On a bar of Dial soap.
• "Instructions: usage known." -- Instructions on a can of black pepper.
• "Serving suggestion: Defrost." -- On a Swann frozen dinner.
• "Simply pour the biscuits into a bowl and allow the cat to eat when it wants." -- On a bag of cat biscuits.
• "In order to get out of car, open door, get out, lock doors, and then close doors." -- In a car manual.
• "Do not use house paint on face." -- In a Visa commercial that depicts an expecting couple looking for paint at a hardware store.
• "Do not drive cars in ocean." -- In a car commercial which shows a car in the ocean.
• "Always drive on roads. Not on people." -- From a car commercial which shows a vehicle "body-surfing" at a concert.
• "Do not attempt to stop the blade with your hand." -- In the manual for a Swedish chainsaw.
• "Do not dangle the mouse by its cable or throw the mouse at co-workers." -- From a manual for an SGI computer.
• "Warning: May contain nuts." -- On a package of peanuts.
• "Do not eat." -- On a slip of paper in a stereo box, referring to the styrofoam packing.
• "Do not eat if seal is missing." -- On said seal.
• "Remove occupants from the stroller before folding it."
• "Access hole only -- not intended for use in lifting box." -- On the sides of a shipping carton, just above cut-out openings which one would assume were handholds.
• "Warning: May cause drowsiness." -- On a bottle of Nytol, a brand of sleeping pills.
• "Warning: Misuse may cause injury or death." -- Stamped on the metal barrel of a .22 calibre rifle.
• "Do not use orally after using rectally." -- In the instructions for an electric thermometer.
• "Turn off motor before using this product." -- On the packaging for a chain saw file, used to sharpen the cutting teeth on the chain.
• "Not to be used as a personal flotation device." -- On a 6x10 inch inflatable picture frame.
• "Do not put in mouth." -- On a box of bottle rockets.
• "Remove plastic before eating." -- On the wrapper of a Fruit Roll-Up snack.
• "Not dishwasher safe." -- On a remote control for a TV.
• "For lifting purposes only." -- On the box for a car jack.
• "Do not put lit candles on phone." -- On the instructions for a cordless phone.
• "Warning! This is not underwear! Do not attempt to put in pants." -- On the packaging for a wristwatch.
• One of my father's favorite comedian’s is the one who always says "here's your sign."  One of my favorite stories he tells is of the truck driver who gets stuck under the bridge.  When a policeman shows up - he is laughing and says - get stuck?  The guy answers, nope - was delivering this bridge and ran out of gas!  Here's your sign!

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Today is a day to use your common sense, and you can go back to being book smart tomorrow!

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Election Day 2012

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By Terry Orr

In the next 24 hours – “We the People” will elect our next President of the United States of America, one third of our Senators and all 435 House of Representatives, many State Governors and their respective elected officials.

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Our friends across the Atlantic recently wrote an interesting article about our upcoming election from their perspective – always nice to view the elephant from a different perspective.  “The outcome of this battle is not only important to America but also to the rest of the world”.  By DR NIGEL BOWLES

The polls can barely separate the pair, who both stand at around 47 per cent – with many still undecided. 

Given the turbulent times we live in, both financially and in terms of international politics — with Iran and Israel rattling sabres, and North Africa increasingly unstable — the outcome is not only hugely important to America but also to the rest of the world.

Despite the rise of China and the rapid growth of other nations, such as India and Brazil, the U.S. remains the dominant player on the global stage. It is still a military colossus and the engine room of the global economy, with its capacity for innovation and wealth creation undimmed.

For Britain, American presidential elections are particularly significant, given the unique ties between our countries. The U.S., for instance, invests far more in Britain than Europe does.

Recently, Mitt Romney was singing the praises of Margaret Thatcher in one of his stump speeches, while world politics in the previous decade was dominated by the bond formed between George W. Bush and Tony Blair during their fight against terrorism.

Given its global importance, what is extraordinary about the presidential election is its complexity, both in the process itself and in the impact of the result.

Because of the federal structure of American politics, this is far from a straightforward contest.

The winner is not decided by a clear majority of the overall national vote, but by individual victories in the 50 states (plus the District of Columbia) that make up America. In truth, it is not one presidential race but 51 — and the result will be decided by a few swing states.

Moreover, having gained office, the President is severely constrained by other political institutions, including Congress and the state legislatures.

The whole system of governance, dating back to the Declaration of Independence in 1776, had the ‘separation of powers’ at its heart, based on the idea that the Executive, namely the Presidency, should not be able to control the legislature or Congress.

This separation of powers, though, can lead to deadlock and obstructionism in Washington, weakening the scope of the President to provide the leadership the world so badly needs.

These limitations on the Presidency are sometimes forgotten in the drama of the race itself, when candidates make grandiose claims about their ability to transform America’s fortunes.

Few recent elections have been more dramatic than this one, partly because the race is so close and partly because there are many fewer undecided voters than previously.

The sense of a nation divided that has gripped this election is felt throughout American politics, which accounts for the increasingly bitter tone of campaigning.

In the past, it was not always easy to gauge voters’ party allegiances from their background or region or even political outlook.

But now, as politics of identity and region have become much stronger, the south and the centre have become overwhelmingly Republican. The eastern and western seaboards are largely Democratic.

Evangelical Christians are more likely to vote Republican, while urban voters are more likely to back the Democrats.

Most disturbing of all, in the land that was meant to be the great melting-pot, is the growing racial divide. Integration is giving way to division.

African-Americans now vote overwhelmingly for the Democrats, while the white population increasingly supports the Republicans.

In fact, while such a split might help Romney this time, in the long term it spells disaster for the Republican Party, since the effects of mass immigration and higher ethnic minority birth rates mean that the make-up of the American population, like the British one, is changing rapidly.

So whoever wins on November 6 is going to face a monumental challenge. For all the rhetoric about ‘change’ in this campaign, the reality of division in the population and the partisan deadlock in Washington means that his task could not be more daunting.

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/debate/article-2222109/US-Presidential-Election-2012-The-outcome-important-America-rest-world.html#ixzz2B5IddJ6D 

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I believe DR Nigel Bowels has captured the essence of the election fairly well.

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Diane and I hope that all American citizens will exercise their right to vote and let their voice be heard. By all predictions - this election will be very close!

Gluten-Free Diet Awareness Month

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By Nurse Diane

With the holiday season approaching, planning a family gathering can be difficult if you have a large group.  There are so many likes and dislikes that people have, some are vegetarians, and others have food allergies.  On food allergy that may not be as common as dairy or nuts, is gluten.  Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye and most oats. It basically binds starches together.  It is often used as filler for foods as well.

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The ingestion of gluten causes stomach problems for people who suffer from Celiac Disease.  The problems that are seen - or felt include, bloating, headaches, dizziness, and is commonly misdiagnosed.  There are other medical conditions that people my need to follow a gluten free diet, and some include:

• Autism
• ADHD
• Diabetes
• Fibromyalgia
• Chronic Pain such as Arthritis, Nerve Damage and more
• Asthma
• Allergies
• Autoimmune Diseases
• Thyroid Problems
• Colitis
• Digestive Problems
• Fatigue
• IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
• Nervous Symptom Disorders
• Adrenal Exhaustion
• Hormonal Imbalance
• Cancer

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Lately there has been an increase in gluten free products available at the grocery stores.  November is Gluten Free Diet Awareness Month.  As you plan your holiday menu and guest list, why not check out some gluten free products to have on hand just in case.  This site has a list of foods to avoid, and also some recipes to enjoy: http://glutenfreerecipebox.com/celiac-foods-to-avoid.  You will be sure to be named the hostess with the mostest!

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Guy Fawkes Day

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By Diane Forrest

I'm sure you remember the Occupation Wall Street event that took place last year.  Many protesters of big corporations gathered together to voice their complaints.  As a representative of the protests, they chose the figure of Guy Fawkes.  Guy Fawkes, as seen in the above pictures, was a rebel in 1605.  His name is synonymous with the famous Gun Powder Plot which threaten to destroy Parliament in England.  He was captured and held in the Tower of London for 4 days as they tried to get him to name his conspirators.  He refused, and was sentenced to be hung.  As the noose was placed around his neck - he jumped from the platform, breaking his neck.

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On 5 November 1605 Londoners were encouraged to celebrate the King's escape from assassination by lighting bonfires, "always provided that 'this testimony of joy be careful done without any danger or disorder'.

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Annual commemorations of the foiled plot began soon after, as reminders to defend England from other traitors, especially disloyal Catholics. Over time they became a day and night of fun and pranks, with bonfires, fireworks and the burning of children’s effigies of Fawkes. Today kids have swapped effigies for Halloween, leaving just Bonfire Night and its fireworks.

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Today is Guy Fawkes day, so if it is chilly outside, and you want to light a bonfire and burn a political representative in effigy, this would be a good year - to show your feelings for the candidate you are not in favor of.

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Diabetes Education Week – 2012 Update

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By Terry Orr

I am a Type-2 Diabetic – non-insulin and have been for nearly twenty years and I am still learning more and more about this disease and complications from diabetes. Today’s article focuses on two primary areas – Managing Diabetes and good references/links for excellent education information and support.

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Managing Diabetes - It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.

The National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP) website provides a wealth of excellent information on diabetes.  Diabetes Education Materials for People with Diabetes and their Families:

• 4 Steps to Control Your Diabetes - For Life;
• Know Your Blood Sugar Numbers;
• Help a Loved One with Diabetes; and
• “A Guide to Changing Habits.”

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Step 1: Learn about diabetes.

Diabetes means that your blood glucose (blood sugar) is too high. There are two main types of diabetes.

• Type 1 diabetes - the body does not make insulin. Insulin helps the body use glucose from food for energy. People with type 1 need to take insulin every day.
• Type 2 diabetes - the body does not make or use insulin well. People with type 2 often need to take pills or insulin. Type 2 is the most common form of diabetes.
• Gestational (jes-TAY-shon-al) diabetes - occurs in some women when they become pregnant. It raises her future risk of developing diabetes, mostly type 2. It may raise her child's risk of being overweight and developing type 2 diabetes.

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Step 2: Know your diabetes ABCs.

Talk to your health care team about how to manage your A1C, Blood pressure, and Cholesterol. This can help lower your chances of having a heart attack, stroke, or other diabetes problems. Here's what the ABCs of diabetes stand for:

A for the A1C test (A-one-C).

• It shows what your blood glucose has been over the last three months. The A1C goal for many people is below 7. High blood glucose can harm your heart and blood vessels, kidneys, feet, and eyes.

B for Blood pressure.

• The goal for most people with diabetes is below 130/80.
• High blood pressure makes your heart work too hard. It can cause heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.

C for Cholesterol (ko-LES-ter-ol).

• The LDL goal for people with diabetes is below 100.
• The HDL goal for men with diabetes is above 40.
• The HDL goal for women with diabetes is about 50.

LDL or “bad” cholesterol can build up and clog your blood vessels. It can cause a heart attack or a stroke. HDL or “good” cholesterol helps remove cholesterol from your blood vessels.

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Step 3: Manage your diabetes.

Many people avoid the long-term problems of diabetes by taking good care of themselves. Work with your health care team to reach your ABC target. Use this self-care plan.

• Follow your diabetes meal plan. If you do not have one, ask your health care team to help you develop a meal plan.
• Eat healthy foods such as fruits and vegetables, fish, lean meats, chicken or turkey without the skin, dry peas or beans, whole grains, and low-fat or skim milk and cheese.
• Keep fish and lean meat and poultry portions to about 3 ounces (or the size of a deck of cards). Bake, broil, or grill it.
• Eat foods that have less fat and salt.
• Eat foods with more fiber such as whole grain cereals, breads, crackers, rice, or pasta.
• Get 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity on most days of the week. Brisk walking is a great way to move more.
• Stay at a healthy weight by using your meal plan and moving more.
• Ask for help if you feel down. A mental health counselor, support group, member of the clergy, friend, or family member who will listen to your concerns may help you feel better.
• Learn to cope with stress. Stress can raise your blood glucose. While it is hard to remove stress from your life, you can learn to handle it. NDEP's Diabetes HealthSense provides online access to resources that support people with diabetes in making changes to live well.
• Stop smoking. Ask for help to quit. Call 1-800-QUITNOW (1-800-784-8669)
• Take medicines even when you feel good. Ask your doctor if you need aspirin to prevent a heart attack or stroke. Tell your doctor if you cannot afford your medicines or if you have any side effects.
• Check your feet every day for cuts, blisters, red spots, and swelling. Call your health care team right away about any sores that do not go away.
• Brush your teeth and floss every day to avoid problems with your mouth, teeth, or gums
• Check your blood glucose. You may want to test it one or more times a day. Use the card at the back of this booklet to keep a record of your blood glucose numbers. Be sure to show it to your health care team.
• Check your blood pressure if your doctor advises.
• Report any changes in your eyesight to your health care team.

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Step 4: Get routine care.

See your health care team at least twice a year to find and treat any problems early.

At each visit be sure you have a:

• Blood pressure check
• Foot check
• Weight check
• Review of your self-care plan shown in Step 3

Two times each year have an:

• A1C test - it may be checked more often if it is over 7

Once each year be sure you have a:

• Cholesterol test
• Triglyceride (try-GLISS-er-ide) test - a type of blood fat
• Complete foot exam
• Dental exam to check teeth and gums - tell your dentist you have diabetes
• Dilated eye exam to check for eye problems
• Flu shot
• Urine and a blood test to check for kidney problems

At least once get a:

• Pneumonia (nu-mo-nya) shot
• Hepatitis B shot

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For those of us who have smartphones – I strongly recommend getting on of the many diabetes apps.  They come in all sorts of sizes, shapes, colors, and capabilities!  I have been using Diabetes Buddy on my iPhone for the past year or so – good app – but I am still looking for one that suits my specific needs.  Every couple of months, I begin my research looking for “that app” which may satisfy my needs. One feature that you should insist on is the ability to email those results to y our medial team.  Some automatically do so monthly – nice feature and many doctors appreciate getting the email and enter into your medical record.

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References and Links:

• http://ndep.nih.gov/partners-community-organization/campaigns/CydflManagingDiabetes.aspx
• http://www.cdc.gov/DIABETES/ndep/
• http://diabetesandmetabolism.com/
• http://www.galenmedical.com/www/docs/127.44/diabetes-education-chattanooga-tennessee
• http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003996.htm