MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'dad'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 01:53:19 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5139874&cid=t_105415_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F08%2F19%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-august-19-2011%2F Ask me about a trip I took with my dad to Maui ten years ago and I can barely recall what we did. But ask me about my childhood toys and suddenly I remember every detail, every curve of a ball, color, texture and even the faint smell of a favorite toy. There is one toy I remember in particular. It was a half red, half blue sphere covered with different shaped holes and yellow plastic shapes (triangles, stars, circles, etc.) meant to fit through them. If you’re curious, this is what it looked like. What I remember is being very young and feeling frustrated because no matter how hard I pushed I could never get all of those puzzle pieces into the holes. It was only when I got older that I realized every piece had its place. I was wasting my energy trying to force pieces where they didn&... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5139874 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 12:11:34 +0100 5139874 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5086256&cid=t_105415_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F08%2F01%2Fare-you-living-vicariously-through-your-kids%2F In his book, The Available Parent: Radical Optimism for Raising Teens and Tweens, psychologist John Duffy, PsyD, talks about an adolescent client named John, who’s a star football player. He’s so good that the local paper predicts that he’ll play in Division I football, and college scouts have already started contacting him. A teenager’s dream, right? Well, unfortunately, John isn’t too keen on football. He plays the sport solely because it’s the only time his father, a famous college football player, pays attention to him.  And John pines for that attention and his dad’s approval. But he also wants to quit football and pursue other interests. Maybe you’ve felt a similar trap with your own parents: not enjoying or downright hating something you’re doing but sticking ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5086256 Mon, 01 Aug 2011 15:45:03 +0100 5086256 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5078041&cid=t_105415_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fteens-its-not-your-fault%2F It’s Not Your Fault! Hi!   Are you worried that your Mom or Dad drinks too much or uses drugs? You are right to be concerned— about their safety and health, about what will happen to you, about their embarrassing you or criticizing you unfairly, about breaking promises, about driving under the influence, and about lots of other things that create unpredictability and confusion. While you cannot stop your parent from drinking or using drugs, you can take steps to make things better for yourself. Facts You Should Know… One in four youth under age 18 lives in a family where a person abuses alcohol or suffers from alcoholism. Countless others are affected by a family member’s use of drugs. Remember: You are not alone. Lots of teens are in your situation a... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5078041 Fri, 29 Jul 2011 04:07:53 +0100 5078041 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5008305&cid=t_105415_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F07%2F08%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-july-8-2011%2F The stories you tell yourself about yourself are probably not only untrue, but could be hazardous to your health. This is particularly the case where those “stories” are negative and unconscious. I’ll share a personal story to explain what I mean. When I was about 8 or 9 years old, my dad got laid-off from his job. In order to collect unemployment, he needed to show he was actively searching for a job. One week he applied for a job as a courtesy clerk for a local supermarket. He didn’t think he would actually get it nor did he really want it. He assumed being in his thirties and working in management positions prior made him overqualified. But surprise, surprise, he got the job anyway. He remembers it as one of the most embarrassing days of his life and was a... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5008305 Fri, 08 Jul 2011 09:17:44 +0100 5008305 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4952986&cid=t_105415_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F21%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-june-21-2011%2F Today is my dad’s birthday. And in honor of his birthday and belated Father’s Day, I’m posting an old post I wrote for him and in honor of all dads out there… Perhaps the greatest evidence of age comes in comparison to those around you.  When I was big enough to walk, but small enough to need daddy’s hand to hold, the world was still young and so was he and I.  Big hands to cover tiny fingers were what security embodied looked like.  I needed him for support and he willingly obliged.  As I got older, my father would run past me calling me “slowpoke” because I would always fall behind. I remember our weekly walks to the neighborhood park where I would stare at his feet gigantic in comparison to mine.  To walk beside him I needed to take double steps to his... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4952986 Tue, 21 Jun 2011 11:10:26 +0100 4952986 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4952989&cid=t_105415_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F19%2F10-tips-for-new-fathers%2F If you are a new dad, guess what research shows is one of the best things you can do to bond with your new baby and make your marriage stronger? Change his diaper. Yep… Becoming a new father can be a daunting task, but there are ten things to keep in mind that will help you, your new baby, and your marriage. 1. Time and tolerance. The most important thing you can do is simply spend time with your newborn.  Serious research about fatherhood is only a scant 30 years old, and what we know is that the more time fathers spend with their infants the better. Researchers in the early years of father-infant bonding couldn’t find fathers spending enough time with their infants to study them.  In other words, dads weren’t spending an adequate amount of time with their baby to even start... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4952989 Sun, 19 Jun 2011 10:29:58 +0100 4952989 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4934642&cid=t_105415_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FHMBed74AHa8%2F My dad still has a subscription to Rolling Stone magazine. Last time I was home, he was paging through one of those consummate Rolling Stone best-of articles, this one featuring the ‘Top 50 Songs by Bob Dylan.’ “Can you tell me what number one is?” my dad asked my sister and I. “Like a Rolling Stone?” we both answered. Correct. “I guess I raised you guys right,” he said. Some things, like my dad’s knowledge of and love for 1960s and 70s-era music, my sister and I picked up practically through osmosis during our childhood. Other things we never did learn—for instance, we’ve oft gone against everything my dad believes in by purchasing books and movies from Amazon rather than borrowing them from the public library. And neither of... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4934642 Thu, 16 Jun 2011 20:54:20 +0100 4934642 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4921517&cid=t_105415_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F11%2F6-ideas-for-creating-fun-rituals-with-your-family%2F My parents and I have always been like the Three Musketeers. When I lived at home, we’d sit down to dinner every single night—no TV or cell phones, though my dad would leave the soccer game on in the living room and spring from his chair to stand at the edge of the kitchen to catch a good play. (Or if he heard the signature “Gooaaaallllll!” roaring from the announcer.) We took family vacations regularly and rarely experienced big events separately. For instance, whenever I had a performance at school, my parents always made sure that one of them was there. If they had to, they’d miss work to support me during one of my silly shows. My father passed away almost two years ago, but my mom and I still try to eat dinner together and regularly have shopping dates. When my g... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4921517 Sat, 11 Jun 2011 12:31:41 +0100 4921517 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4872162&cid=t_105415_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F05%2F27%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-may-27-2011%2F I remember the first time I ever felt in control of my life. I was about 8 or 9 years old at the time and had a reoccurring nightmare about two kids chasing me down the street. When I told my dad about it he said, “You know you can control your dreams right?” He told me all I had to do was visualize what I wanted to happen in the dream before I went to sleep. Because I had the kind of faith in magic and pure wonder that only occurs in childhood, I wholeheartedly believed him. The next morning I woke up with a smile on my face. In my dream, the two kids that were chasing me finally caught up. But in their hands were melting ice-cream cones they had been trying to give me. That dream was years ago, but I will never forget it. More than teaching me how to control my dreams, it tau... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4872162 Fri, 27 May 2011 10:40:45 +0100 4872162 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4862627&cid=t_105415_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F05%2F25%2F8-tips-for-writing-a-love-letter-to-your-spouse%2F In my post, “Getting the Love You Want … Over and Over Again,” I mention one of the most powerful intimacy tools in my marriage, which is writing a love letter. I write one every day to my husband. Now mind you, these are not lengthy missives. Some of them are just a few sentences. But I do think the brief expression of affection has made our connection much stronger. On some days, it is the only substantial communication between us, because our kids have an uncanny knack of interrupting all of our conversations. But how do you go about writing a love letter? I found these eight tips on the site, Song of Marriage. This following suggestions are part of a husband’s guide. But I think they work for a wife’s as well. Rule Number One: Make It Positively Personal Anything put into w... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4862627 Wed, 25 May 2011 19:31:33 +0100 4862627 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4872481&cid=t_105415_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2Ffht-X0H6iyI%2F It’s Not Your Fault! Hi!  Are you worried that your Mom or Dad drinks too much or uses drugs? You are right to be concerned— about their safety and health, about what will happen to you, about their embarrassing you or criticizing you unfairly, about breaking promises, about driving under the influence, and about lots of other things that create unpredictability and confusion. While you cannot stop your parent from drinking or using drugs, you can take steps to make things better for yourself. Facts You Should Know… One in four youth under age 18 lives in a family where a person abuses alcohol or suffers from alcoholism. Countless others are affected by a family member’s use of drugs. Remember: You are not alone. Lots of teens are in your situation and it’s important to addr... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4872481 Mon, 09 May 2011 15:34:00 +0100 4872481 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5118934&cid=t_105415_136_f&fid=39027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cancerlifeandme.com%2F2011%2F03%2Fblood-isnt-always-thicker%2F About four years ago, I went to a doctor appointment that, until now, only my wife knew about. It was a visit to a urologist. The subject of the meeting was to evaluate my fertility. My wife and I were recently married, and so naturally the idea of children came about eventually. I dreamed of having my own kids someday. But, I also tried avoiding any conversations about procreating. This is because I highly suspected I might be infertile due to the chemo/radiation treatments I had received, yet I didn’t want it to be official. I wanted to keep hope alive through denial and avoidance. But the question kept bugging me: Can I have kids? And then I thought about what it was doing to my wife, the uncertainty. We needed to either accept bad news and move on, or realize good news and begin ... Cancer, life, and me blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5118934 Tue, 29 Mar 2011 16:00:56 +0100 5118934 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4653516&cid=t_105415_136_f&fid=39027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cancerlifeandme.com%2F2011%2F03%2Fblood-isnt-always-thicker%2F About four years ago, I went to a doctor appointment that, until now, only my wife knew about. It was a visit to a urologist. The subject of the meeting was to evaluate my fertility. My wife and I were recently married, and so naturally the idea of children came about eventually. I dreamed of having my Continue reading Blood isn’t always thicker… (Source: Cancer, life, and me) Cancer, life, and me blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4653516 Tue, 29 Mar 2011 16:00:56 +0100 4653516 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4361068&cid=t_105415_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F01%2F18%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-january-18-2011%2F No matter who we are, where we live, how much money we have or what we do for a living, we all essentially want the same thing. We want to feel validated that our worries, feelings and emotions are justified. We want to be seen, heard and felt valued for who we are. We want to know that how we feel and what we think is normal. And most important, we want to be both loved and understood. Knowing these things, can we change the way we perceive our relationships? Can we change the way we treat ourselves and others? That’s a hope I have and a realistic resolution you could have for 2011. A simple change to gain a worthy result. Recently, my great aunt was snappy on the phone with my dad, I took the chance and spoke to her, validating her concerns, calming her fears, and noticed an instan... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4361068 Tue, 18 Jan 2011 11:52:11 +0100 4361068 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4361337&cid=t_105415_180_f&fid=38609&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDavidSeah-BetterLivingThroughNewMedia%2F%7E3%2FdBNBiPR07Yg%2F SUMMARY: A personal post about my Dad’s recent visit that segues into my thoughts for getting 2011 off to a productive start. Dad just flew back home on Saturday morning, ending a six-week stay at my house here in New Hampshire. I’m sad that he’s gone back to Taiwan, as I’ve grown used to the quiet routine he had worked out. The funny thing is that we didn’t really do anything that special. Dad’s quite self-contained in his interests, and in prior visits we’d worked out the essentials: Cello (Dad took it up in his late 70s), Cooking (Dad seems to see this as one of his major contributions), and Investigating New Stuff Around the House. Apparently I am descended from a long line of gadget-loving Asian ministers, with grandparents on both sides of... David Seah - Design, Development, Inspiration, Empowerment blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4361337 Mon, 17 Jan 2011 17:35:41 +0100 4361337 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4253201&cid=t_105415_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F12%2F12%2Fthe-dreaded-question-is-santa-real%2F Parents often live in fear of this time of the year, because as their child ages, their belief in Santa Claus becomes challenged by hints that perhaps he isn’t as real as they thought. Sometimes the first hints come from watching television, catching a part of conversation that suggests Santa was never real. Other times it comes from surreptitiously catching Mom & Dad putting out the presents in the middle of the night. Yet other times it comes from the realization that it may be physically impossible for one individual to go down so many chimneys in such a short amount of time (not to mention how heavy he would be eating all those cookies!). Psych Central’s parenting expert Dr. Marie Hartwell-Walker will help you get through this transition to help keep your child’s ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4253201 Sun, 12 Dec 2010 11:36:47 +0100 4253201 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4172113&cid=t_105415_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F11%2F16%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-november-16-2010%2F Do you remember the first time you began thinking about yourself as your own person, separate from mom and dad? I think for me it began when I was a child and saw that I could choose what I wanted to wear for school, what I wanted to eat and what I liked to do. But not only that. My tastes, sense of style and opinions were different too. Yet, this sense of, “Who am I?” definitely did not stop as a child. It grew in my twenties and continues to grow for me as an adult. The more I am able to step out of my family’s shoes and develop my own sense of me, the further along the path I walk toward authenticity and self-identity. It’s a road less traveled especially if you come from a family-centered culture like mine. If you are an artist, writer or any creative person, th... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4172113 Tue, 16 Nov 2010 12:59:46 +0100 4172113 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3987196&cid=t_105415_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2Fb6u9ykIdeSI%2Fcwd-friends-for-life---mountain-climber.php Sorry folks, I'm not done gushing about CWD Friends For Life.   I left off with Jay Hewitt on three TV screens, and some evening basketball with Gary Scheiner.I had just as much trouble choosing sessions on Friday as I did the day before.  I'm a big fan of Tom Karlya, also known as "Diabetes Dad", which made my morning decision that much easier.  He and Kimberly Davis, Director of Federal Affairs at Johnson & Johnson, did two great sessions on "How to Talk to Your Congressperson".  It was fantastic.  They were fantastic.Did you know that in Province, RI it is illegal to sell toothpaste and a toothbrush to the same customer on a Sunday?  Or that in North Dakota it is illegal to go to bed wearing shoes?  Or that in Kentucky it is illegal to transpo... Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3987196 Mon, 20 Sep 2010 16:00:00 +0100 3987196 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3980989&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F09%2Fsleep-overcome-me.html I just apprehensively drove to my father’s pharmacy feeling it was best to do what I was about to do face to face instead of on the phone. I needed relief and I needed it today. Friday’s are dad’s slow day with a co-pharmacist on duty. Mom says he sits in his office on the Internet and watching TV. I thought it was the perfect opportunity to ask for help in getting some sleep. The Ambien is just not working any longer and my Klonopin are like taking a placebo. “Dad?” I asked as we walked out into the pharmacy away from the busy counter. “Do you have any thing over the counter I can take for sleep?” “We both know you can’t take Benadryl,” dad replied as we surveyed all our options where the OTC medications are kept. “You’ve have addiction issues with it in the past. ... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3980989 Fri, 17 Sep 2010 16:03:00 +0100 3980989 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3960065&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F09%2Fim-fine-with-overtime.html I left George’s last night to bring my cable box and digital video recorder to dad. He was happy. “This will cut your cable bill in half,” he told me as we put the boxes into his car. “I will continue to let the pharmacy pay for it. I get a discount on my business plan for having my residential accounts on it as well.” “I don’t watch much TV,” I replied. “Just let me keep my faster level of Internet service.” He agreed. I thought we had a no overtime policy at work. I guess it only applied to non-associates. They wanted me to work last night and I was happy to get the extra money. I am making more money than I know what to do with with my disability subsidizing all my living costs. I have a lot of expendable income these days and it is all getting squirreled away for a ... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3960065 Sat, 11 Sep 2010 16:27:00 +0100 3960065 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3958050&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F09%2Flazy-afternoon-in-south.html I was just standing in mom and dad’s kitchen as Helen cooked supper.  We finally had something fried this evening much to my elation.  Helen was cooking English peas with carrots, fried Swiss steak, baked potatoes, fruit salad, and biscuits.  Dad had just arrived home and changed clothes into his pajamas. “Mr. John?  Are you going to bed?” Helen asked as dad passed through the kitchen to survey Helen’s meal. Dad laughed. “I am going out on the porch to read for awhile until supper is ready. I am just getting ready to relax.” Dad and I don’t say much to each other these days. We just chose to disagree about the course I am taking with my life. Dad worries about my retirement and disability ending in May. I finally got him to go online to read all the guidel... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3958050 Fri, 10 Sep 2010 22:23:00 +0100 3958050 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3913281&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F08%2Ftime-for-day-off.html Dad grilled steaks last night for him and mom.  He brought me by a plate around 7:00pm.  I had just called him warning him storms were on the way. “You were right,” dad said always so excited about the weather. “The heavens opened up just after you called.  I had just got the steaks off the grill.” It is hurricane week on The Weather Channel and it is hard to get current and local weather information.  Dad is still finding it hard to adjust to using the Internet as a weather resource like I do.  And our favorite local weather television station is broken again as usual.  Dad couldn’t keep up with the weather last night. “The Weather Channel is just going to die as far as weather fans go,” dad said with a sigh. We both have lots of misgivings abou... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3913281 Sun, 29 Aug 2010 08:58:00 +0100 3913281 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3913282&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F08%2Fmore-stability-today.html I bought a tiny little Sony radio with weather band at work this morning.  I had grown tired of music on my iPod as I gathered my carts – much preferring AM talk radio.  I also bought some batteries, put them in my new little radio and was overjoyed this morning when I found I could pick up KMOX out of St. Louis before dawn.  They replay last night’s Coast to Coast AM again at 5am and was also overjoyed to find Art Bell hosting the show overnight.  This made gathering the buggies much more pleasant this morning – the hours before dawn just flying by as I listened to my favorite radio show intently.  I got an extremely good night’s sleep last night – the Ambien so helping to regulate my sleeping habits.  I am finding myself sleeping for eight or more ... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3913282 Sat, 28 Aug 2010 18:59:00 +0100 3913282 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3827314&cid=t_105415_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2FPr4Il63nHBA%2Fcwd-friends-for-life---the-primer.php I have a million things I want to talk about regarding my first ever Children With Diabetes (CWD) Friends For Life (FFL) conference.  I've been trying to sort it all out in my head before starting to write about it, but that's not working for me.  I'm just going to jump in and get started.  I am really hoping to keep my posts about it short and sweet, so I'll cover little slices or aspects of it each time.  Giving ThanksBefore I get too far into my CWD FFL experiences, I need to give thanks to the people that made it possible for me to attend.  First on my list is my dad.  My dad has been my number one supporter, and encourages me to chase my dreams.  I can't say enough about how motivating it is to have his support and dreams right there with me.  H... Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3827314 Thu, 05 Aug 2010 21:45:08 +0100 3827314 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3780543&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F07%2Ffighting-good-fight.html This morning will be the first day in many years that my medications aren’t forced upon me.  I called dad last night and explained to him what was going on – that I had a new doctor and that I am getting my prescriptions filled elsewhere.  He didn’t really know what to say, but he told me I was on my own now – that I couldn’t come running to him when I got in a mental illness mess as he surmised would happen.  I said fine.  I just want some autonomy. “It is going to come at a high cost,” he said. “You are so mentally ill that you can’t think straight or think rationally for yourself.” I told him I loved him deeply and that I was very sorry for all of this.  I had to do it though.  I was dying emotionally and mentally for years.  I have... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3780543 Thu, 22 Jul 2010 11:18:00 +0100 3780543 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3764280&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F07%2Fbroken-sleep-and-day-off.html Strange dreams kept plaguing me last night.  I dreamt of Neil Young’s song Old Man over and over – trying to sing it and remember the words in my sleep.  I also dreamt I was still married and Rachel and I were fighting.  Some things never change. 7:30am found me at dad’s sitting in the den.  I watched as he handed me my handful of medications.  He yawned sleepily as he asked me how my night was. “I had my first passionate kiss in years last night and it was wonderful,” I replied. “Who?” dad asked shockingly surprised. “A woman I’ve met at work.” Dad didn’t know what to say.  He looked kind of confused.  For years, I wasn’t dateable and suddenly I am.  I don’t think dad knows how to handle it.  For years, I have been lik... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3764280 Sun, 18 Jul 2010 12:17:00 +0100 3764280 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3763045&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F07%2Fmidnight-in-chattahoochee-valley.html I couldn’t sleep last night after sleeping for about four hours.  I was wide awake at midnight.  I had two Klonopin to take which usually make me sleepy as they are very sedating, but I knew to save them for the next afternoon – ever mindful of that anxiety that always hits the most late in the day.  I got online and applied for countless fast food jobs just for the hell of it – interested in if I would get some calls.  I also applied for a job opening as a grocery clerk at Kroger -- putting feelers out there.  The assessment tests on these online applications were interesting in what they would ask – only a moron would answer incorrectly the questions were so obvious in their solutions.  I wandered down to the convenience store well after midnight.&nb... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3763045 Sat, 17 Jul 2010 17:56:00 +0100 3763045 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3743715&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F07%2Fpontificating-over-employment.html I drove over this morning for the medication ritual at seven.  My father’s cousin Jean is in town from south Georgia and staying with my parents.  She was still asleep when I arrived and dad said we needed to be quiet so she could sleep in.  She had a long drive the night before and didn’t get in until very late in the night. “I am amazed you’ve managed to work one full week,” dad told me with a smirk as I sat down in the den. “I’ve been expecting drunken disaster by now. When do you get paid?” “Oh, I’ve got money,” showing him the over hundred dollars I have accumulated in my wallet. Dad looked aghast.  He hasn’t seen me with money in many, many years.  It about freaked him out! “You’re playing with fire, son,” he said. “You know yo... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3743715 Sun, 11 Jul 2010 12:03:00 +0100 3743715 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3742395&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F07%2Fthink-before-you-smoke-dummy.html   “I hate to get on to you. You’ve done so well, but you don’t need to be smoking as you bring the carts in from the parking lot,” my supervisor told me this morning.  “Smoke off to the side of the store near the oil change area. You’re doing an awesome job, though.  That’s my only complaint with what you are doing.” “Sorry!” I replied, feeling like crap. I am so sensitive – really a perfectionist at heart. I can’t take much criticism.  “I just wasn’t thinking. It won’t happen again.” “It just looks bad,” my supervisor said. “Remember you are representing the store and you are usually the first Wal-Mart employee customers see besides the greeter.” Work was routine other than that. I trained the new guy – a big bustling black guy... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3742395 Sat, 10 Jul 2010 19:07:00 +0100 3742395 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3740809&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F07%2Feight-hour-day-tomorrow.html I drove over this morning to get my medications at 7:30 as dad and I had agreed last night.  Dad was not happy about it at all.  He said he kept hoping I would call him with a change of heart – to acquiesce.  Dad made me wait ten minutes to make sure I didn’t throw them up.  He didn’t say much to me to my surprising relief. I didn’t need a confrontation this morning or an argument before work or the anxiety that would ensue because of it. He sat eating his breakfast of toast and jam and watched the television as I sat and let the medications soak in.  He is really giving me the cold shoulder, though.  Dad can’t stand to be out of control of situations or me.  He controls pretty much everything my mother does and did for me as well for years.&nbs... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3740809 Fri, 09 Jul 2010 16:21:00 +0100 3740809 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3737273&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F07%2Fassertive-one.html I have to start taking a more assertive  and dominant role in my mental healthcare.  For years, I haven’t even really known what medications I am taking.  Of the eleven pills I take every night, I can only name five off the top of my head.  This has got to change.  We have to start doing what is good for ME and not what is easiest for DAD. Dad arrived tonight and was surly and cold to me as I had expected.  I asked about their trip to Washington, but he didn’t say much.  He did say my brother and him were on the Today Show.  We sat down and began to talk.  I immediately took an assertive role. “I want to take my medications in the morning so they will help me while I am at work,” I told my father.  “They are wasted on me with me t... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3737273 Fri, 09 Jul 2010 02:04:00 +0100 3737273 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3733275&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F07%2Fpossible-parolee.html “George might be eligible for parole in October!” Florene told me over the phone very animatedly and excitedly tonight. “I talked to him on the phone late this afternoon.  He said he is going to have to wear an alcohol monitoring device for months, though.  Possibly a year.” “How did he feel about that?” I asked excited, but worried about my friends tendency to drink without thought.  The urge to drink can be all encompassing for an alcoholic at times.  “He said he was willing to do anything to get out of jail,” she told me. “He promised me.  He said he would gladly give up drinking for his freedom. Andrew, he sounds so miserable!” I can only hope my dear best friend gets home before Christmas.  October would be a boon. If George doesn’t ... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3733275 Wed, 07 Jul 2010 23:32:00 +0100 3733275 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3730070&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F07%2Flove-abounds.html “I love you,” Charlie told me tonight. “I love you so much.  I don’t know how I will ever repay you for all you’ve done for Horsefly over the years. You will always be so special in my heart for helping him to talk and to learn to play like regular kids.” He gave me a strong and loving embrace as we stood in my den. “I have just been so worried about you all day.  It has made me sick with worry!  You don’t seem to be drinking even though you have some money, though.  I thought I would find you drunk tonight when you said you were mowing lawns.  I worry you are going to get in a mess with that job.  I called your father tonight and told him.  He said he is going to call you in a little bit to talk. Don’t worry. He sounded calm. I hated to... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3730070 Wed, 07 Jul 2010 01:28:00 +0100 3730070 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3726757&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F07%2Fmy-trial-by-fire-first-day-is-under-my.html Well, I made it there and back again this morning. I survived one of my hardest mentally and physically taxing days in years.  I really haven’t worked in eight years as I’ve said many times and I am home again after four hours of my first day of work.  I worked from eight till noon this first day to break me in gently for which I was much relieved.  I don’t think I could’ve worked much longer than that for the first day.  I will probably be working longer hours as the weeks progress my supervisor said and that will be my true trial by fire. They only have two people doing my job and it is a 24 hour store.  A teenager comes in the afternoons and works the second shift.  Can I work an eight hour day of standing on my feet all day?  My mental illness... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3726757 Mon, 05 Jul 2010 16:59:00 +0100 3726757 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3724564&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F07%2Fcharlie-to-rescue.html “You look so good today!” Charlie exclaimed after entering my house. “You just washed your hair. Let me smell it. You really do fix up nice.  You’re such a good looking man.” Charlie brushed my wet hair with his hand and then gave me a strong hug in greeting.  I relished the close contact with him and the hug.  I’ve been so lonely today. Maggie was just about going bonkers at Charlie’s arrival.  She was doing her little happy dance in the floor at Charlie’s feet.  Standing up on her hind legs. “Yes! I love you too!” Charlie told her as he reached down and rubbed the nape of her neck vigorously. “How has your day been?” Charlie asked me. “I worry about that anxiety you’ve been experiencing.  You really struggle. Don’t you?” “Th... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3724564 Sun, 04 Jul 2010 23:10:00 +0100 3724564 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3714419&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F06%2Fthat-joyous-medication-ritual.html “Let’s sit outside on the porch and listen to the thunder,” dad said excitedly a moment ago. “I do hope we get some rain.  I am tired of watering the lawn everyday.  It is costing me a fortune in water bills.” Dad placed two folding chairs on the porch and sat down beckoning for me to join him.  He was smiling – looking content.  I love it when he is like this.  I shouldn’t let others dictate my moods, but dad’s peacefulness and contentment was contagious.  I don’t think he realizes what a strong effect he can have on me. “Oh, how I love a day off,” he said as he turned to me and smiled all the ever more. “I am getting too old to work all the time. I think I will retire soon and sell the store.  I don’t think I would ever get bor... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3714419 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 21:17:00 +0100 3714419 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3714420&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F06%2Fpig.html The trains just weren’t running today.  I saw only two long freight trains and one short local in the two hours of sitting on my favored bench behind the bank. I sat reading my Model Railroaders and smoking.   I did get to see an old dilapidated GP-38-2 from the seventies pick up a string of pulpwood cars in the wood yard. That excited me as the GP-38-2 is my all time favorite diesel locomotive.  Disappointed, I finally walked up to the Piggly Wiggly which is just up the street.  I parked on a bench, ate some cheese and wheat crackers, and began people watching.  There was an interesting little altercation when the police were called when a man had been found to be stuffing steaks down his pants.  I couldn't help but laugh and feel sorry for the young H... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3714420 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 20:08:00 +0100 3714420 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3710766&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F06%2Fanother-night-owl-evening.html Dad left at ten after our medication ritual and Maggie’s food ritual.  He was kind of quiet tonight, but I didn’t take it personally.  “Tuesday’s are my hell day,” he said sitting on the couch as we watched the tail end of Hawthorne.  For years, we watched The Weather Channel during the medication ritual as dad waited for my medications to take effect.  The Weather Channel has fallen out of favor as far as our routines go.  We have both grown disgusted with their gross hyperbole and over-sensationalization of minor weather events.  I call it the death and destruction channel these days as they love to sensationalize disaster. Long gone are the days when meteorologists would report the weather in a sensible manner. And who in the hell wants to wake up... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3710766 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 03:23:00 +0100 3710766 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3703092&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F06%2Fquest-for-klonopin.html I was over at mom and dad’s at lunchtime when Charlie pulled up in dad’s Ford  F-150 truck which was filled with antique furniture.  I was standing outside knocking on the backdoor to no avail.  It was as if no one was home. I knew they were there. I was on a quest for Klonopin and my daily medications.  I didn’t want any anxiety whatsoever today and was going to nip it in the bud by taking my medications early if I could convince dad I needed them.  “You can never get them to the door of that big damn house,” Charlie said excitedly and emotionally. “Here, let me try to call your father to get him to the door. He better answer that damned phone of his.” Charlie’s cell phone rang and rang with no answer from dad.  Charlie started to bang on dad�... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3703092 Mon, 28 Jun 2010 00:15:00 +0100 3703092 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3701801&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F06%2Fweed-whackers.html Charlie arrived at my house late yesterday evening armed with things to trim and cut shrubbery.  I have my own arsenal under the house as well that dad bought me when I moved into this house.  It was a surprise visit.  He was just laughing and carrying on -- making jokes and being his usual acerbic self.  I was a little apprehensive at first – worried he would have to do all the work and I would sit on the sidelines. I was so worried I would have an anxiety attack.   “Let’s get your shrubbery shaped up,” he said handing me a sack of diet Cokes as a treat. “You’re gonna have the nicest yard on the block.” Charlie did this out of the goodness of his heart.  He could have spent his time doing a hundred other things on his Saturday evening.&nbsp... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3701801 Sun, 27 Jun 2010 07:23:00 +0100 3701801 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3687164&cid=t_105415_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F06%2F22%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-june-22-2010%2F How was your Father’s Day? Was it all you wanted, expected and hoped it would be? The activities of the day, however, are less important than the memories associated with Father’s Day. Even if you’re not a father yourself or were unable to spend time with your dad due to death or distance, there’s still a lot that can be celebrated. Things like treasured memories and happy moments and taking time to remember the fatherly figures in your life and how they have influenced who you are today. On Sunday, I spoke with my dad. He talked about his life as a child growing up in Hawaii. He reminisced about the way things were. The neighbors he knew, the small local-owned stores that used to be in existence, and the truck that sold produce picked from local farms. How simple l... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3687164 Tue, 22 Jun 2010 11:26:46 +0100 3687164 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3679796&cid=t_105415_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F06%2F20%2Fin-celebration-of-fathers-2010%2F Happy Father’s Day! Dads sometimes get a bum rap as simple bread winners who occasionally are called upon to wield a hammer to hang a picture. They play ball (or, more likely, video games) with the kids, and leave the heavy lifting of child rearing and such to the moms. But fathers are, of course, so much more. They teach us about the wisdom of consideration, courage and honor. They know it is better to command respect than fear, to cultivate friendships rather than enemies, and to find something you love to do, and then build your career around it. Perhaps they aren’t always as “involved” in things as moms seem to be, but they so often seem to provide the rock of stability in a family that is often under-appreciated. Dads are increasingly feeling just as stressed ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3679796 Sun, 20 Jun 2010 11:52:17 +0100 3679796 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3678673&cid=t_105415_167_f&fid=38271&url=http%3A%2F%2Frebeccascritchfield.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F06%2F20%2Fdads-cook-too-a-father%25e2%2580%2599s-day-look-into-the-kitchen%2F By: Carlene Helble-Elite Nutrition Intern Happy Father’s Day Dads! It’s no secret we appreciate you and your handiness around the house, but have you tried the kitchen recently? Trade in your hammer for a spatula and test out some simple and nutritious meals. By next year we’ll be complementing your cooking skills too! Fellow R.D. Janet Helm’s article ‘Dad’s gift to the family? Cooking Dinner” advocates men in the kitchen also. If you want to give back after your big day, cook more… and not just with the grill. Statistics show that less than 15% of all meals consumed at home are prepped by the guys.  It doesn’t have to be fancy or restaurant worthy, but Dad in the kitchen can help inspire the family meal to make a come back, which ‘many experts believe is key to ba... Balanced Health and Nutrition Rebecca Scritchfield's Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3678673 Sun, 20 Jun 2010 01:25:38 +0100 3678673 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3549545&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F05%2Fshaky-is-word-for-day.html “You’re still not feeling up to snuff are you son?” dad asked after opening their back door and me telling dad I was feeling unwell. I couldn’t get mom and dad on either phone and knew they were home.  I drove over to get my medications early hoping that would calm me as it usually does. “I feel like I am going to jump out of my skin!” was my reply. Dad had been cooking a brunch of bacon and biscuits.  He fixed me a plate and told me to sit down and eat a bite.  He then walked out to his car to get my medications in their blister packs which he keeps in the trunk of his Honda. “What’s wrong?” mom asked, walking into the kitchen in her nightgown.  “You look pained.” “Oh, it’s just my typical mental illness bullshit,” I replied. “It’s a cur... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3549545 Sun, 09 May 2010 21:59:00 +0100 3549545 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3547000&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F05%2Fquest-for-batteries.html “Do you need anything?” dad asked last night during our medication ritual. I had noticed when dad handed me my medications that there were eleven pills.  I looked closely and there was an extra 3mg Risperdal.  I didn’t say anything and just took them with one gulp of Wal-Mart grape juice.  I figured the extra anti-psychotic would do me good and would help me sleep well for the night.  I pointed at the eight home theater remote controls on my coffee table and said, “I really could use some batteries for all of these.” “Come on,” dad said. “Let’s get in the car and drive to Kroger.” Dad and I wandered around Kroger looking for batteries.  If mom was along, she would have been asking complete strangers where the batteries are kept.  Thankfully... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3547000 Sun, 09 May 2010 09:59:00 +0100 3547000 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3545613&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F05%2Fdowntime.html “You’re doing too much too soon!” dad told me scolding me a moment ago on the phone. “Your mother just called and said you went and got an estimate for that black lady's car.  You need to let her family handle all that.” “Yes sir,” I replied.  Dad is right.  I am an all or nothing fellow and went from 0 to 60 in a matter of a day.  “Rest for a week,” he said. “Listen to your music.  Enjoy your home theater.  Just relax and let your medications work.  I told your mother not to get y’all up something to do either like she will often do.   She’s resting as well.  I ordered you both some downtime.  I will see you at three or four with your medications for the day.” (Source: The 4th Avenue Blues) The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3545613 Sat, 08 May 2010 14:49:00 +0100 3545613 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3545615&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F05%2Fmy-thoughts-at-end-of-blogging-day_07.html There’s a Difference… There’s a difference in dad these past few episodes of mental illness I have experienced.  He is kinder, gentler and far, far more forgiving of my foibles.  He is quick to tell me he loves me and Johnny-on-the-spot about getting me medical attention.  “You need cigarettes?  Don’t you?” dad just called and asked.  “It’s been a week since you last asked for any.  And be sure to drive over to go get your diet Cokes tonight.  It is driving your mother crazy that you haven’t gotten them in days.” I talked for a minute and dad interrupted and said, “Thank God!  You sound like a different man.  You’re coherent now!  I don’t think you realized it, but you were talking some crazy and wacky stuff for a ... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3545615 Fri, 07 May 2010 23:53:00 +0100 3545615 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3526931&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F05%2Fmy-thoughts-for-end-of-blogging-day.html Double Cheeseburger Time… View Full Album “Mom?” I asked a moment ago. “Can I come and get my Cokes early?” I was mainly bored and wanted something to do – a reason to get out and drive the car. “Sure sweetheart,” she replied gleefully. “I will have them ready for you.” I arrived at mom and dad’s to find them both sitting in the den and reading books.  Mom was reading a book on Orville and Wilbur Wright and dad was reading a book on Jackie Kennedy.  The cover of the book said, “The Queen of America.” “Johnny, go buy me a double cheeseburger,” mom said. Dad looked up and grunted. “One of those McDonald’s apple pies would be good as well.” Dad grunted again, closed his book, and got up to go get supper.  I rode with him.  I just got a l... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3526931 Mon, 03 May 2010 00:07:00 +0100 3526931 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3524443&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F05%2Fmy-thoughts-at-end-of-blogging-day.html Pizza Time! View Full Album Mom’s been with me all day.  Dad has been working in the yard.  We ordered pizza tonight and it about drove Maggie crazy to get some.  The smell that wafted through the house was wonderful. I cut my grass today and had a mini anxiety attack.  I felt dizzy as I put the finishing touches on the front yard.  I turned off the mower and sat on the steps.  My heart was beating something furiously.  It took a good thirty minutes to recover and I put the mower in the basement and called it a day.  I will finish tomorrow. “Hallelujah!” dad said as he walked through my yard to bring my medications. “I love it when you cut your grass.  It looks so good. You are the only house on the block with a neat yard.” Dad was in ... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3524443 Sun, 02 May 2010 01:20:00 +0100 3524443 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3519689&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fmidnight-rendezvous.html Dad called me last night.  It was midnight.  I had been asleep for hours.  Maggie sighed loudly in the bed as I got up to answer the phone. “Will you come and help me with this new computer system?” he asked. “I am lost on how to use it and I have to train all my employees and pharmacists on how to use it tomorrow.  I fear we will never get the store up and running tomorrow.” I got up and dressed.  Brushed my hair and headed out the door to the other town where my father’s pharmacy resides.  It was a nice cool night as I drove.  My windows were down as I smoked one cigarette after another.  A full moon hung in the sky.  I headed down to the Valley thoroughly enjoying the drive and the opportunity to help my father.  I seem to have... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3519689 Thu, 29 Apr 2010 18:04:00 +0100 3519689 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3508430&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fmy-thoughts-for-blogging-day_27.html Attitude of Gratitude… I have a lot to be thankful for this morning.  I have food and it is a day before grocery day.  Maggie has taken to snuggling up in my arms every night.  This is a new turn of events and thrills me.  I sleep so much better with her so close to me.  I’ve gotten my six diet Pepsi this morning and am savoring them.  There is a chance my contacts will arrive today and for that I am excited.  I am hoping I will see extremely well with them.  Tonight is Mexican Tuesdays and I am getting the Burrito Supreme plate which will be a treat.  I thought this morning as I drove to my parent’s how reliable and what a good car I have.  It has held up well over the years.  You can’t beat a Honda.  Yes, I have much to ... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3508430 Tue, 27 Apr 2010 11:41:00 +0100 3508430 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3508431&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fmoderately-happy-pill.html “That’s all I want is a moderately happy pill,” I told my father a moment ago. He burst out laughing.  “But wouldn’t you want something that makes you fell really good?” he asked jokingly. “No,” I said quite contentedly. “I’ve experienced the highest of highs and the lowest of lows.  I will settle for moderately happy.” (Source: The 4th Avenue Blues) The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3508431 Mon, 26 Apr 2010 17:56:00 +0100 3508431 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3501699&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fmy-thoughts-for-blogging-day_24.html Gentrification… “Your father is driving me nuts this morning,” mom said over the phone a moment ago as she yawned sleepily. “First, he started some coffee and then realized we had a new coffee maker.  He told me I shouldn’t have spent that money – that our old coffee maker worked perfectly fine.  I wanted one with a timer and a larger capacity.  Then, he has the TV up so loud in the den that it woke me up in my back bedroom.  He’s gotten so hard of hearing.” I got the biggest smile on my face.  Mom and dad’s interactions can be so interesting and it just gets more interesting the older they get and the longer they are married.  “I just asked him a question about his day off and what he was going to do and he just grunted something inaudible... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3501699 Sat, 24 Apr 2010 12:15:00 +0100 3501699 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3490852&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fmexican-jumping-beans.html “Kids don’t play with the same toys as they did when I was a child,” dad said last night as he crossed his legs and scanned the new digital channels on my TV.  He was especially interested in the BBC nightly news.  “You all had Nintendo's and I had Mexican jumping beans to keep me preoccupied.” I laughed whole heartedly.  For some reason, this just stuck me as so funny. “I would get tired of watching my beans twitch and jerk and then I would go out to play in the yard.” “Now you are going to tell me you also walked to school in three feet of snow,” I replied with that old and stale cliché.  “You know what my favorite summer toy was?” dad said.  “I used to catch a June bug and tie a string to it’s hind leg and then it would fly around teth... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3490852 Wed, 21 Apr 2010 10:44:00 +0100 3490852 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3483099&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fwanting-more-technology.html The funniest thing just happened.  I don’t watch much TV, but the HDTV dad and mom gave me got me excited about HDTV broadcasts.  I want the technology more than anything.  Well, I just called dad and asked him if I could order digital HDTV for $40 extra dollars a month.  Our cable service offers over 30 channels now and I would really like to watch Food TV in HDTV glory – one of the few channels I will watch on a regular basis.  “Oh, I don’t know if you can afford digital cable,” dad said indecisively. “Your budget is stretched pretty thin.” “Johnny, don’t tell him that,” I heard my mother say mutedly from a distance. She must have been sitting next to him.  “You have several thousand dollars saved up in his bank account now.” “Marth... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3483099 Sun, 18 Apr 2010 17:59:00 +0100 3483099 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3480912&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fi-probably-did-wrong-thing-but.html This morning, I went to the 10am AA meeting -- the “church” meeting held in Lagrange.  We talked about making amends and promptly admitting when we were wrong – that it was so key to staying sober.   A few weeks ago, when I was drinking, I stole a nice gold watch out of my father’s BMW.  I was going to sell it for more beer and Benadryl.  Dad hasn’t missed it, but when I sobered up, I felt terrible.  I called dad a moment ago and told him about it.  I told him I would give it back tonight. “Did I just do the wrong thing?” I asked my father. “I fear I caused more harm than good to our relationship by telling you.  You haven’t missed it and probably would have never known for months.” My father can be kind of clueless about his mate... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3480912 Sun, 18 Apr 2010 16:12:00 +0100 3480912 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3480914&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fmy-thoughts-for-blogging-day_18.html Steak and Mashed Potatoes That’s what I had for breakfast.  Half a steak and a heaping helping of warmed up mashed potatoes. It was so delicious and a great start to the day.  I feel so content. Maggie’s been very busy this morning.  I heard this clamoring sound and the dog door was going crazy.  Maggie was trying to get her pound puppy inside.  I opened the back door and she came running in with it in her mouth.  A moment ago, I was laying on the bed reading a book.  I had taken off my shoes and socks and put them on the floor next to the bed.  I watching enthused as Maggie came in and got every sock, one at a time, and took them outside to play.  She has this fetish for my socks it seems.  I ran over one hidden in the weeds yesterday ... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3480914 Sun, 18 Apr 2010 09:34:00 +0100 3480914 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3468002&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fcreatures-of-night.html I just drove over to get my diet Pepsi. Mom and dad’s kitchen light was on.  Mom was up and snacking.  She does this often – getting up to get something to eat in the wee hours of the morning.  Dad says it sounds like mice in the kitchen in the middle of the night munching on things – food packages crackling.  I knocked on the door and mom opened it.  I just wanted to say a quick hello and was interested in what she was eating. She was cooking cherry Poptarts in the toaster oven.  “I noticed yesterday when I was using your bathroom that you are low on toilet paper,” mom said not saying hello and foregoing any pleasantries.  She was strictly business.  “Meet me down at the garage door and I will give you some.” Mom opened the garage doo... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3468002 Wed, 14 Apr 2010 10:19:00 +0100 3468002 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3463831&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fmy-thoughts-at-end-of-blogging-day_12.html The highlight of my birthday today was a call from my brother tonight.  “Oh, I just got in a fight with an ER doctor over a patient that needed special care,” my brother told me when I answered. He was really telling me all his problems and I listened intently.  I want to be close to my brother.  I admire him very much.  He was my chief advocate when we were children and we were inseparable.  We slept in the same room.  Shared the same toys.  Joined together in pine cone fights with the neighborhood kids.  He’s a good guy and someone I want in my life. “Call him every day,” dad said. “If you can get over your phone and social anxieties.” “I can’t call long distance on my phone,” I replied, reminding dad of his self imposed predica... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3463831 Tue, 13 Apr 2010 02:40:00 +0100 3463831 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3457988&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Ffrugal-and-complicated-mother.html “I called Social Security yesterday,” mom told me last night. “And they said Medicare would cover one pair of glasses and one eye exam per year.” “Good,” I replied. “That will save us around $200 dollars.” “Well, I got worried they said Medicaid and not Medicare,” mom then told me. “I got confused.” I smiled. It always gets complicated with my mother.  Dad then got the phone from my mother to talk to me. “Your mother is cheap with her money, but loves to spend mine,” dad said laughing.  “She is obsessing about getting Medicare to pay for your glasses.  She doesn’t want to pay for them now.  She has asked me a thousand questions tonight.” I laughed and smiled.  I love mom so much quirks and all.  I told dad that where there is ... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3457988 Sun, 11 Apr 2010 10:37:00 +0100 3457988 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3457993&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fbig-daddy-cometh.html Dad walked across my yard with a big white sack in hand from the pharmacy.  Maggie and I were standing at my screen door.  Anticipation grew as dad got closer and I could see it was full of Cokes. :-) “You’ve been doing so well I thought I would bring you a treat,” dad said, handing me the sack. “I talked to your mother about your birthday present from me,” dad said as he sat down on the couch to give me my medications.  “She says you want a grocery store shopping spree.” “Yes,” I said as I smiled ever hopeful. “You sure this isn’t involving your bulimia?” dad asked. “You’re not going to eat all that food and throw it up are you?” “No,” I promised. “I just want to be able to buy some foods I can’t normally afford.” “I will give your ... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3457993 Sat, 10 Apr 2010 20:42:00 +0100 3457993 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3456869&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fmy-thoughts-at-end-of-blogging-day_09.html Coca-Cola Anonymous… I just called dad and left a message.  This is going to be interesting for tonight plus what happened below.  I asked for him to bring me home three Coca-Colas similar to what mom bought me today.  I am just flat out obsessed.  It probably wouldn’t be a big deal if I could just buy them, but I can’t, and it makes me want them all the more.  I had six diet Cokes this morning at seven.  Three 20oz Coca-Colas around three.  And now I am hoping to get more.  Dad is not as easy to finagle as mom, though.  I probably won’t get tonight’s.  He will probably just forget as he normally does after a busy day of work.  Update… “I love you, son,” dad just told me on the phone. “I am bringing you three Cokes.&... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3456869 Fri, 09 Apr 2010 23:05:00 +0100 3456869 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3433143&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fmy-thoughts-for-day_02.html A Vacation… The next few days will be a vacation for me of sorts.  Mom and dad are off to Washington to see my brother.  This takes a LOT of pressure off me.  I won’t have to “prepare” and “perform” every night for dad to come with my medications.  I can let myself and the house go for a few days.  I don’t have to shave.  I don’t have to keep the den tidy.  I can just be an all around slob! lol  It makes me so nervous every night with dad coming and I don’t have to deal with that anxiety until next Tuesday. Computer Stuff… Charlie’s wife gave me her old laptop last night. Charlie bought her a brand new Dell Inspiron.  That was so kind of her, and I was surprised at what a nice laptop it was for being several years old.&nbsp... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3433143 Fri, 02 Apr 2010 10:11:00 +0100 3433143 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3416301&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fgood-start-to-day.html “Good morning!” dad said over the phone a minute ago. “What are you doing?” I asked. “I’m drinking me some coffee, eating a microwaved honey bun, and watching CNN,” he replied. “I called to ask you about that NAMI meeting,” dad then said. “Me and your mother want to go with you.  I am not making any promises with work and all, but I do want to go.  I want to hear what other people have to say about mental illness.” “Thank you,” I replied. “That makes me so excited!  I am more likely to go on a regular basis if you all get involved.” “I want you to talk to your brother and sister as well.  There have to be some cutting edge studies on mental illness and schizophrenia you can get involved in.  I want you to try some new medications.&nb... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3416301 Mon, 29 Mar 2010 12:01:00 +0100 3416301 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3416305&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fmy-heart-glows.html My Heart Glows! “I’ve got a lady named Beth reading my blog and she has a daughter with similar issues to me,” I told dad a moment ago. “She’s really opening my eyes to your side of the story and what parents go through.” “She’s had it tough, hasn’t she?” dad said very intrigued as if he knew.  “She doesn’t complain about her daughter,” I replied. “But I am getting glimpses of what it is like to be in your shoes.” “I like I have an advocate on your blog now,” dad said. “You make me want to read again.” Oh Lord! I don’t want dad reading my blog again, but I liked he showed some interest in it.  It is such an important aspect of my life.  I consider it therapy.  Dad was in an awesome mood and so loving tonight which was irony coming... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3416305 Sun, 28 Mar 2010 23:10:00 +0100 3416305 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3411276&cid=t_105415_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fmy-thoughts-for-day_27.html George is Sick… “I’ve gone three days without drinking,” George told me last night on his way to work.  He had called me on his cellphone on the drive to Lagrange. “I am so sick, though.  I almost called into work.” George had a coughing fit on the other end.  I cringed.  He sounded terrible. “Call in sick and go to bed,” I told him, worried.  “Did you go to a meeting tonight?” George asked ignoring my last statement. “I went to the afternoon meeting in Lagrange,” I told him. “I just can’t go to those meetings,” George told me much to my dismay. “I just don’t believe in all that Godspeak.” I could only just hope and pray.  The rest is up to George. I can only lead by example. George coughed again and sniffled. “I’ll see ... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3411276 Sat, 27 Mar 2010 10:09:00 +0100 3411276 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3159957&cid=t_105415_136_f&fid=39027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lrdlc.dreamhosters.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fresolve%2F The holiday break is over. Well, not for me. I’m still relaxing at home. But it’s over for my wife and daughter. On Monday, Lexi reluctantly woke up early and went back to school. That evening, she finished her first pages of homework for the week, also reluctantly. My wife, Shawntel, resumed her night classes (medical assisting) this week as well. It was a nice break for us, though. Christmas eve was spent here (bro-in-law’s place). It went surprisingly well. No stress. No nausea. No back pain. At the end of the night, we were left with a fridge full of leftovers. Good times. On December 27, we went down to the Bay Area to visit my dad-in-law’s family for a post-Christmas party. It also went well. For New Year’s Eve, we headed to Elk Grove to visit my parents... Cancer, life, and me blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3159957 Sun, 10 Jan 2010 20:32:27 +0100 3159957 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3153647&cid=t_105415_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FenZsvsgumXY%2F My name is Paul and I am a Cocaine Addict. I was born in Liverpool, the second son in a family of five boys and one girl. My father was a Liverpool dockworker who used to come home from work via the pub every night. I remember my parents would fight physically, and more often than [...] (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3153647 Thu, 07 Jan 2010 14:47:21 +0100 3153647 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3136705&cid=t_105415_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FD3UJ4vu8AI0%2F2010-waybac-edition.html By Bob DeMarco Happy New Year. For today, I am going to jump into my WayBac machine. Maybe some of you are familiar with Mr. Peabody and his boy Sherman. Believe it or not, I took Dotty to see the fireworks in downtown Delray Beach last night. The fireworks go off at MIDNIGHT. Dotty no problem. As usual our little town of Delray Beach did a fantastic job. The finale' was excellent. If you ever come to Delray for New Year's eve, let me tell you its fantastic. They close off Atlantic avenue and you can walk around without fear. There are all kinds of street vendors and they have groups playing music right on the street corners. We also have First Night. Lots of rides for the kids, all kinds of games, lots of fun. Oh before I forget. They do the fireworks at 9 PM for the kids,and t... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3136705 Sat, 02 Jan 2010 01:52:04 +0100 3136705 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2908649&cid=t_105415_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F10%2F19%2Fthe-psychology-of-the-parents-of-balloon-boy%2F This past week we saw the news media captivated by the idea that a 6-year-old boy, Falcon Heene had been carried off by a weather balloon. That is until the boy was later found in his own garage attic and shortly thereafter it was revealed on a television news show that the entire incident was likely a hoax. In replying to a reporter’s question, the young Falcon turned to his dad on camera and said, “You guys said that, umm, we did this for the show.” Oops. The parents — Richard Heene and Mayumi Heene — have all along claimed it was not a hoax or a publicity stunt. Now, according to The New York Times, the parents will voluntarily surrender to police as soon as charges are filed, which is expected to happen on Wednesday. While the truth continues to unfold, th... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2908649 Mon, 19 Oct 2009 20:15:52 +0100 2908649 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2858667&cid=t_105415_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F10%2F03%2Fbabyman%25e2%2580%25a6-is-this-your-guy%2F Once upon a time there was a damsel in distress crying for help at the top of a tower. Down below was a fierce and fiery dragon. Away on a not-too-distant hill was a knight in shining armor on a white horse. As the damsel cried to the knight saying, “Please save me!” the knight looked at the dragon and then at the damsel. Then again he looked at the dragon and at the damsel. Abruptly the knight started to suck his thumb and cried out loud saying, “Mommy, Mommy, I’m scared!” The damsel could not believe her eyes. She quickly assessed her options and came to the conclusion that the knight was not going to save her. Immediately, like a bolt of lightning, she jumped out of the window dropping down below and almost breaking her legs. She then ran to the knight and pulled his sword out... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2858667 Sun, 04 Oct 2009 04:47:15 +0100 2858667 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2859104&cid=t_105415_136_f&fid=39027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lrdlc.dreamhosters.com%2F2009%2F09%2Fwhen-cancer-killed-grandma%2F I’d like to expand on what I wrote in this post, particularly about my grandma. I didn’t write enough about how her death affected me. She was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer  when she was 85 and I was 15. It’s been said that type of cancer is one of the most excruciating and lethal. (R.I.P., Mr. Swayze) Let me backtrack… my granny was Manuela. She insisted we call her Manuelita, though. She didn’t want to hear any of that “abuelita” or “grandma” business. She was short, stocky, feisty, and incredibly rugged for her age. She lived with my family since before I was born. In a sense, she was a second mom. They both ran the show while Dad was off working. Dad, Mom, and Manuelita: they were the bosses of us 5 kids. Manuelita & me Manu... Cancer, life, and me blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2859104 Fri, 18 Sep 2009 22:26:07 +0100 2859104 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2859105&cid=t_105415_136_f&fid=39027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lrdlc.dreamhosters.com%2F2009%2F09%2Fmy-foundation-dads-response%2F Not too long ago, I wrote about my father. He called me yesterday and asked if I was ready to hear his response yet. I said, “Sure.” I was curious. He actually read this to me over the phone. Can you say emotional? Between him choking up and me reaching for tissues…well, I’ll let you read it. He left this as a comment on the blog yesterday, but I’m elevating it to full-on blog post, baby! My comments are in GREEN. His reply: Hi mi hijo, After I read “My Foundation” I was crying for awhile, and so many memories to to my mind and heart. I remember how many of my plans (as a dad) for you suddenly collapsed right before my eyes. I figured maybe you would be a great soccer player. But, most of all, a martial artist that I could be teaching and coaching. (My Dad... Cancer, life, and me blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2859105 Thu, 17 Sep 2009 20:12:51 +0100 2859105 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2859108&cid=t_105415_136_f&fid=39027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lrdlc.dreamhosters.com%2F2009%2F08%2Fmy-foundation%2F I’m a newbie dad (about 7 years experience so far). Each day that goes by I am reminded of the strength and determination of one man: My father. He started out as a newbie dad once. He had five kids in all: 3 girls and 2 boys. He was poor, but I didn’t really know it or feel it. He worked his ass off in a factory. His children could have gone to public school for free, but he knew the value of education, so each one of them attended private schools through high school. His income went to food, rent, school, and clothes. He was also a young father. He wasn’t perfect by any means (but in my memory he comes damn close), but still he worked for all of us: Mom, Grandma, May, Jess, Thani, Alan and I. I see his sacrifice in retrospect and frankly, it floors me. Then one day he w... Cancer, life, and me blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2859108 Thu, 27 Aug 2009 19:38:16 +0100 2859108 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2511159&cid=t_105415_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F06%2F20%2Fthankful-for-my-dad%2F As we get older, we gain perspective, if we open ourselves up to understanding and knowledge. It doesn’t always come readily or naturally. Of course, one of the primary things you gain perspective about as you age is, well, aging. You grow older and people you know start dying. Friends. Family. Colleagues. Death is the ultimate giver of perspective. You begin to appreciate the richness of the lives that have been voluntarily shared with you, and stop taking them for granted. And you start to understand that despite all of the things our parents might have done wrong by us, they got a lot of things right too. I can’t complain about my childhood, as I grew up in a decidedly middle-class suburb in a university town, living a decidedly middle-class life. While I may have not gotte... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2511159 Sat, 20 Jun 2009 15:11:11 +0100 2511159 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2390197&cid=t_105415_133_f&fid=35124&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Faspergerwoman%2F%7E3%2FV0uau-itSC8%2Fautism-food-sweet-things-in-life.html After some days of hard thinking, serious brainwork, it's time for something Light and Yummie... Gonzo inspired me with her kitchen stuff:To start the day with:Coffee break:On bread: Any time of the day, no words, just a * sigh *:Here are some sweet plastic things in life! :This is so cool, I found this last Thursday somewhere left on the queensday fleemarket. Unbelievable. People do throw away far too many things. It makes me sad. I just love this picture. Shapes and that blue...ohhhhBTW this was dinner tonight:I feel so lucky to have both a dishwasher (mini) and an always friedly dad with two right hands. He made the cupboard underneath the dishwasher himself!! Dad I am soo proud of you!! (Source: The Art of Being Asperger Woman) The Art of Being Asperger Woman blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2390197 Mon, 04 May 2009 19:00:00 +0100 2390197 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2354072&cid=t_105415_136_f&fid=35302&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FWhitePebble%2F%7E3%2Fq9rml8tnJ0w%2F At around the time that I left for college, the emptiness and loneliness that were unavoidably attached to our remote house finally got to my mother. Mom’s mothering instincts, which didn’t lessen with my leaving, needed an object. At that time, teddy bears were enjoying a surge of popularity among children, and thus my mother settled upon them as a target for her mothering instincts. My own childhood teddy bear, given to me by my mother’s twin sister even before I was old enough to have left the hospital, had long since been retired to a shelf in my closet. No matter — it was too small of a bear for my mother’s purposes anyway. Mom went for the big bears, the ones that not only were larger than the average toddler, but much better dressed as well. She invested in... white pebble blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2354072 Tue, 21 Apr 2009 03:06:28 +0100 2354072 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2067699&cid=t_105415_136_f&fid=35294&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.psa-rising.com%2Fblog%2F2008%2F12%2Fcanada-free-psa-test-extended%2F Jenny Potter in The North Bay Nugget, Ontario, Canada, reports “Another obstacle is out of the way for men at risk of developing prostate cancer.” Unfortunately, this is not quite yet the case. As Potter says: The Ontario government recently announced it will cover the cost of the prostate-specific antigen tests when performed at laboratories. Currently, publicly [...] (Source: psa-rising.com/blog) psa-rising.com/blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2067699 Sat, 27 Dec 2008 07:38:34 +0100 2067699 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1975268&cid=t_105415_136_f&fid=35300&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.metastaticlivercancer.org%2F2008-11-21-cancer-treatment%2Fmy-dad-is-dead%2F due to metastatic liver cancer. That’s what happened to Patrick’s dad, my dad and a lot of other dads from our secondary liver cancer site.   Most people find our site looking for new cancer treatments or liver cancer treatment options. Unfortunately we don’t have a cure for cancer and we only have 2 metastatic liver cancer survivors.   You try to organize the best palliative care ever and as much as the cancer sucks the life out of your loved one, it also starts draining you emotionally and physically.   Depression symptoms   Then your loved one dies of metastatic liver cancer and… there you are on your own and you get into a period of grief and bereavement.   2 years after my dad died, I am still in that period of grief and bereavement. Y... Metastatic liver cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1975268 Fri, 21 Nov 2008 06:50:15 +0100 1975268 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1960867&cid=t_105415_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2F453496860%2Fworld-diabetes-day-2008.php Just a reminder that today is World Diabetes Day and the world is lit up in blue. Last year I was living in Taiwan and lucky enough to see the tallest building in the world lit up with that lovely... (Source: Diabetes Daily) Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1960867 Fri, 14 Nov 2008 23:32:31 +0100 1960867 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1951988&cid=t_105415_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2FAc8nDVcuK0I%2F On May 13th, two men from Worcester (Massachusetts) started walking across the US in memory of Elias Tembenis, who was autistic and passed away last year at the age of 7, and on behalf of the National Autism Association (NAA). The two men completed the walk last week on Election Day. Reading about this, I get this image in my mind of Jim and Charlie someday undertaking a similar walk, or maybe going for their longest bike ride ever……….. Tags: asd, asperger, autism, autism blog, dad, Diagnosis, disabilities blog, disability, Education, election day, son, walk across america, walkingShare This (Source: Autism Vox) Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1951988 Tue, 11 Nov 2008 21:19:03 +0100 1951988 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1522309&cid=t_105415_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F312477338%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  HAPPY FATHER’S DAY Whether you’re a caregiver dad, an Alzheimer’s dad,  a supportive dad, anyone’s dad in the Alzheimer’s world and elsewhere…I wish you a Happy Father’s Day! This is a time to celebrate dads and remember our dad. Even though my dad is no longer living, this day brings memories of him. It’s a time for memories, for getting together, for making phone calls and sending cards, and even for forgiveness. (Amazon image: click on picture for details) (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: Alzheimer's dad, Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, caregiver dad, caregivers, Caregiving, dad, Emma, father, Father's Day, fathers, Mary Allen, Mary Emma Allen, memories of Dad, memories of FatherShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1522309 Sun, 15 Jun 2008 17:10:26 +0100 1522309 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1522228&cid=t_105415_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2F312266235%2F As related, Charlie has been missing his dad ever since Jim said good-bye to us at the Newark Airport on Friday morning. So far we’ve X’d out two days, Friday and Saturday, on the picture schedule and Charlie’s been saying “Sunday, Monday, Dad; Sunday, Monday, Dad.” And, instead of looking panicked when he asks for Dad’s blue shirt and is told it’s in the kitchen on the table, Charlie’s been repeating my words and grinning. Yesterday, while pacing nervously in the driveway for my relatives to arrive for his birthday party, Charlie said “yes” to a walk with alacrity. My parents live at the very bottom of a very big hill and up Charlie and I went. We went up past the elementary and middle schools I attended, up past a canyon where a... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1522228 Sun, 15 Jun 2008 08:21:41 +0100 1522228 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1500025&cid=t_105415_136_f&fid=35300&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.metastaticlivercancer.org%2F2008-06-07-cancer-treatment%2Fmetastatic-liver-cancer-3%2F Another metastatic liver cancer story: from Idana, posted 3 months ago on Pammy’s Liver cancer story : please give your hugs! Idana’s metastatic liver cancer story I’m reading this….. My dad just got diagnosed with metastasic liver cancer, and he is feeling terrible, so do we. We will see the oncologist in two days for the first time, doubts and fear is not nice. He has two base ball sized masses on liver, some smaller ones on lungs and bones. Two months ago he seemed very good and now he is pale and skinny, he seems very week, and desperate about pain, taking like 60 mg of morphine twice a day… I was making some research when I found you…. I’m so sorry some of us have to go through this…. it is very painful for us to see a beloved one go through such pain…. Let�... Metastatic liver cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1500025 Sat, 07 Jun 2008 15:38:59 +0100 1500025 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1475266&cid=t_105415_136_f&fid=35300&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.metastaticlivercancer.org%2F2008-05-29-cancer-treatment%2Fbowel-cancer-and-metastatic-liver-cancer%2F This metastatic liver cancer story comes from Lyndsey and was commented on our 2 other metastatic liver cancer stories from 3 weeks ago My Dad has Bowel cancer and secondary Liver Cancer which is not curable! He is only 55 years old and I am absolutely devastated. He must get his CT and MRI Scan at the end of this week. It is so draining for all of us waiting on results! I am trying to be positive for him but I’m finding it very hard just thinking of him dying! It makes me so sad! Metastatic liver cancer Dear Lyndsey, As by now you most likely know the results from the CT and MRI scan. You should also have had the talk with the oncologist. I was quite surprised to read when you say: "Bowel cancer and secondary Liver Cancer which is not curable". If this is what your doc... Metastatic liver cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1475266 Wed, 28 May 2008 16:00:08 +0100 1475266 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1467020&cid=t_105415_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2F297566840%2F We were walking down the West Side Highway in Manhattan on Saturday when Charlie started running and laughing. Jim and I saw that we were nearing the shed where you can take out a canoe into the Hudson River—-we had passed the shed back in April and met a retired longshoreman who’d noted how he likes to be near the water, and exchanged stories of the waterfront and Cockeye Dunn, a New York mobster who’s one of the characters in the book about the port of New York and New Jersey and the Waterfront priest that Jim is very, very close to finishing. “Want a kayak ride?” asked Jim. “Yes!” said Charlie. He paced back and forth pier 96 with the river splashing below him as Jim filled out some forms and I coaxed Charlie to put on a life vest. “No ves... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1467020 Sun, 25 May 2008 04:54:57 +0100 1467020 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1451876&cid=t_105415_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2F293197674%2F I just got back from Commencement at the college where I teach. We don’t have the facilities to hold the event on campus and it’s held some distance away down the Garden State Parkway. I’ve been teaching at my college for three years now and have gotten to know some students fairly well: So exciting to hear their names called for prizes and to get their degrees, to see them walk (some smiling from ear to ear, some thoughtful at the solemnity of the occasion, some waving wildly to family and friends) across the stage and shake the President’s hand. A alumnus from the class of 1958 gave the Commencement address and he talked about his grandfather who never grew taller than the podium after being hit by a cart in Jersey City, and became a journalist and editor; the spe... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1451876 Sun, 18 May 2008 20:03:33 +0100 1451876 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1407299&cid=t_105415_109_f&fid=35677&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FBrainBasedBusiness%2F%7E3%2F280269220%2Fgl_hoffmans_take_on_intelligen.html This blog is a response to my invitation to GL Hoffman's thoughts on business intelligence.I laughed when I read GL's opener ... "This Was Intimidating..." But the wit and wisdom I'd looked forward to most ... flowed freely below! Ellen asking me to write a guest post for her blog, Brain Based Business!!!, is a bit like Derek Jeter asking me to come over to Yankee Stadium to catch some grounders with him.  Sounds fun at first, but there is a very real chance I will embarrass myself, my family, my company and all my dead relatives.  Plus the uniform will make me look like I am wearing tightie-whities from head to toe.  This could get ugly fast.I learned long ago that I blog best when I don’t think so much.  This is probably very appa... BrainBasedBusiness blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1407299 Tue, 29 Apr 2008 20:00:30 +0100 1407299 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1396301&cid=t_105415_136_f&fid=35300&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.metastaticlivercancer.org%2F2008-04-25-cancer-treatment%2Fmetastatic-liver-cancer-3%2F Another metastatic liver cancer story: from Idana, posted 3 months ago on Pammy’s Liver cancer story : please give your hugs! Idana’s metastatic liver cancer story I’m reading this….. My dad just got diagnosed with metastasic liver cancer, and he is feeling terrible, so do we. We will see the oncologist in two days for the first time, doubts and fear is not nice. He has two base ball sized masses on liver, some smaller ones on lungs and bones. Two months ago he seemed very good and now he is pale and skinny, he seems very week, and desperate about pain, taking like 60 mg of morphine twice a day… I was making some research when I found you…. I’m so sorry some of us have to go through this…. it is very painful for us to see a beloved one go through such pain…. Let�... Metastatic liver cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1396301 Thu, 24 Apr 2008 16:00:37 +0100 1396301 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1354074&cid=t_105415_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2F265427185%2F It was cloudy when we drove up to the train station. Charlie had yet to take off his seatbelt when we heard the roaring of the train: “It’s here already, come on!” said Jim and we tugged Charlie out of the car. Too fast. Charlie started to cry, or rather to wail, but held onto Jim’s arm as we ran up the stairs. A group of young women—soccer players, from their uniforms—-was boarding one by one and we got on with time to spare. Charlie took a window seat and was quiet, and leaned back taking easier breaths as he looked out over the urban terrain of Newark, and then over the old factories and smoke stacks and reedbeds of the Meadowlands. We got into the city, took the subway up to 76th street and Amsterdam and walked by the JCC (too late the for the Family... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1354074 Mon, 07 Apr 2008 04:48:19 +0100 1354074 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1230311&cid=t_105415_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2008%2F02%2F13%2Fwhat-is-parental-alienation-syndrome-pas%2F Parental alienation syndrome is a term coined by the late forensic psychiatrist Richard Gardner to describe a phenomenon he witnessed where children were being turned against one parent, usually as the result of a divorce or bitter custody battle. He described parental alienation syndrome (PAS) as a “disorder that arises primarily in the context of child custody disputes. Its primary manifestation is the child’s campaign of denigration against a parent, a campaign that has no justification. It is caused by a combination of a programming (brainwashing) parent’s indoctrinations and the child’s own contributions to the vilification of the targeted parent.” What are the Symptoms of Parental Alienation Syndrome (PAS)? A syndrome is simply a cluster of symptoms with a common ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1230311 Wed, 13 Feb 2008 21:30:00 +0100 1230311 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1088767&cid=t_105415_136_f&fid=35300&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmetastaticlivercancer.org%2F2007-12-12-cancer-treatment%2Fcolon-cancer-story-from-kristen%2F Comment from Kristen at Liver cancer is a killer, with answer from Metastatic Liver Cancer. My dad was diagnosed with colon cancer on Feb.14th, 2007. The doctor gave him 2 days to 2 weeks to live. He died on Feb. 16th, 2007. The cancer had spread and was inoperable. Nothing prepared my family for the shock of his death and we are still trying to deal with it. The ironic thing is my father was scheduled for a colonoscopy the day after we took him to the ER. The stuff he was supposed to drink for the colonoscopy made him ill, which is why we went to the ER where we found out why. People say it gets easier, but for my family, it hasn’t yet. Metastatic liver cancer reactions Dear Kristen, Accept our condolences and a big hug. Like you say: it just doesn’t get any easier emotional... Metastatic liver cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1088767 Wed, 12 Dec 2007 09:21:25 +0100 1088767 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=675175&cid=t_105415_117_f&fid=34775&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.webmd.com%2Fhealthy-children%2F2007%2F06%2Fnice-work-guys-fathers-day-pop-pourri.html "Be kind to thy father, for when thou wert young,Who loved thee so fondly as he?He caught the first accents that fell from thy tongue,And joined in thy innocent glee"-Margaret Courtney*********************A Brief History of Father's Day in the U.S. The first recorded tribute to fathers in the U.S. was born of heartbreaking tragedy. On December 6, 1907, 360 men were killed in a mine explosion in Monongah, West Virginia. It was the worst mine disaster in American history, 200 widows and 1,000 children were left grieving, and a Mrs Grace Golden Clayton missed her dad.Later, she explained, "It was partly the explosion that set me to think how important and loved most fathers are. All those lonely little children and those heartbroken wives and mothers. Oh, how sad and frightening to have no fa... Healthy Children blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=675175 Wed, 13 Jun 2007 04:00:00 +0100 675175 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=807638&cid=t_105415_158_f&fid=36019&url=http%3A%2F%2Fworkingcaregiver.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F06%2Fcelebrating-dad_11.html This week is dedicated to celebrating dad! It's over a month ago that he passed from my world unto a better one. I know it's better than the one he lived in for several years... especially the last one. He lived with Alz, wheel chair bound, incontinent, unable to feed or care for himself in any way, really. Remembering him this way brings tears to my heart. I'd prefer remembering the quiet man who could fix anything he got his hands on; cars, houses, toilets, little girls broken dreams... he did that one time in my life.. he ended that sweet conversation with, "The only thing important Carol is that you are happy. That's all." Oh, how I loved that time spent with him. When I didn't know it all and he found some time just for me. There were four siblings so his time and energy was limited. ... Working Caregiver blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=807638 Mon, 11 Jun 2007 22:51:00 +0100 807638 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=629105&cid=t_105415_87_f&fid=34865&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thecancerblog.com%2F2007%2F05%2F21%2Foakland-as-nick-swisher-shares-hair-for-cancer-cause%2F Filed under: Daily news, SportsOakland Athletics center fielder Nick Swisher appeared at Saturday evening's pregame event wearing three ponytails. Prepared to donate his locks to the Pantene Beautiful Lengths non-profit campaign, Swisher said just before his ponytails were snipped, "I feel like Pippi Longstocking. I look so goofy right now. But if I can make a difference in one or two women's lives, it's worth it."Swisher's father -- major league baseball player Steve Swisher -- did the cutting honors. And it was fitting the two men were in on this endeavor together because Swisher's grandmother -- his dad's mother -- died from brain cancer two years ago."The initial idea was out of respect for my mom -- but the second thing is: It's time for a haircut,'' Steve Swisher said. "I'm so proud ... The Cancer Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=629105 Mon, 21 May 2007 04:00:00 +0100 629105 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=530928&cid=t_105415_87_f&fid=34865&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thecancerblog.com%2F2007%2F04%2F09%2Fcollege-basketball-grad-coby-karl-resting-up-for-nba%2F Filed under: Thyroid Cancer, Daily news, Cancer Survivors, SportsIt's been a rough road for former Boise State basketball player Coby Karl, son of Denver Nuggets coach George Karl. The younger Karl, 23, had his thyroid removed 13 months ago due to papillary carcinoma, a treatable form of cancer. And he returned to the operating room just last week for the removal of cancerous lymph nodes.Karl's recent surgery, intended to take two to three hours, lasted for seven hours. This worried Dad. ''When it goes longer and longer, you always think the worst, and start worrying about things like being under anesthesia that long and all the nightmares you have about surgeries,'' George Karl said. But it turns out Coby was just fine -- doctors just wanted to be thorough -- and the ambitious young man p... The Cancer Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=530928 Mon, 09 Apr 2007 04:00:00 +0100 530928 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=485771&cid=t_105415_133_f&fid=35046&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kristinachew.com%2Fautism%2F2007%2F02%2Fthe_family_that.html The first thing we saw when we got to the pool was a very large colored ball being batted around the water by kids Charlie's age as some very young-looking lifeguards stood at attention. Charlie got in slowly via the... (Source: Autismland) Autismland blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=485771 Mon, 12 Feb 2007 05:16:57 +0100 485771 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=488169&cid=t_105415_133_f&fid=35124&url=http%3A%2F%2Faspie-bird.blogspot.com%2F2006%2F09%2Fheartwarming-and-heartbreaking-autism.html There are thousands things I want to write about. Autism related things to be exact. At the moment I believe to have a love and hate relationship with the fact that I have autism.I hate it. I do not know where autism has made me feel lonely in previous times during my life. The other way around, was the loneliness 'worse' considering the fact that I have autism. Autism and loneliness seems to be twins in my opinion.Meanwhile I arrange small things for the removal. Especially my dad is delighted I will move to the village he and my mum (and their dog) already live. Heartwarming!My sadness is not over yet. It makes me wonder how inhuman it must be for someone to know you are dying and you have to say goodbye to all wonderful things of life. It makes me so sad! The sadness makes me realise de... The Art of Being Asperger Woman blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=488169 Wed, 27 Sep 2006 19:17:00 +0100 488169