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 'dogs'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 01:53:32 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5107893&cid=t_106061_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FXpncqmok5No%2F Rise and shine. Another day is on the way. And it looks to be a sunny one here on the Pharmalot corporate campus, where we are brewing a delicious cup of mandatory stimulation. Our flavor today is Southern Pecan. Please join us. After all, there is much to do as meetings and deadlines beckon. You know the score, so time to dig in. Meanwhile, here are some tidbits. Have a great day and let us know if you hear of something interesting… FDA Approval Of Roche Melanoma Drug May Come Early (Reuters) Pfizer Sends Israeli Sniffing Dogs To Finland (The Jerusalem Post) Revlimid Side Effects Linked To Protein In Study (Reuters) Valeant Pharma Eyes Medicis For Another Acquisition (Pharma Times) Merck And J&J Sit On Piles Of Cash (The Star-Ledger of New Jersey) Lexicon Tumor Drug Shows Posit... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5107893 Tue, 09 Aug 2011 12:06:27 +0100 5107893 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5096280&cid=t_106061_106_f&fid=36682&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSutureForALiving%2F%7E3%2Fg8wqjfZjV08%2Fshout-outs.html James Logan, MD is the host for this week’s Grand Rounds. You can read this week’s virtual tour edition here. Remember the days when one accessed the internet by using a telephone line to dial up an isp? For that matter, remember when one made telephone calls using an actual telephone line? Well, for this blogger, that day has returned. I very foolishly agreed to host grand rounds during the week after a move to a new apartment (still no agreement on a new dining room table, by the way) not realizing that our high speed internet would not yet be set up during the time I would be preparing this post. No matter. I temporarily have free dial-up access! Hence, this grand rounds is going to be a tribute to Web 1.0 and the various deprecated tags of HTML 4. Comments, of course, are still e... Suture for a Living blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5096280 Tue, 02 Aug 2011 11:56:00 +0100 5096280 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893555&cid=t_106061_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F03%2Fmy-therapist-wont-stop-yawning-in-session%2F Psychotherapy is often described as an art as much as it is a science. The professional relationship between a therapist and their client can be a tricky one. Especially when it comes to bad habits of either the therapist or the client. One of these bad habits is especially frustrating to clients — a therapist’s constant yawns during session. People often read into a yawn far more than what is usually meant — or not meant — by the behavior. Part of the problem is yawning itself — we don’t really know why people yawn in the first place. So a person often will assume the worst — “I’m boring him with what I’m talking about.” But that’s often not the case. The only thing we know for certain about why humans yawn is that t... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893555 Fri, 03 Jun 2011 16:14:56 +0100 4893555 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4872242&cid=t_106061_117_f&fid=38856&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.timemastermd.com%2F%3Fp%3D2102 Old Yeller’s Sniffing the Feller A study shows that dogs can be trained to detect Prostate Cancer by smelling urine! Prostate Cancer gives an odor quite distinct from other bodily perfumes, which is pretty cool.  Rumor is the White House Press Corp are training the dogs based on their expertise in having their noses in President Obama’s backside these past two years. Royal Arse News – Pippa Mania Before the Royal Wedding took place, Palace security had bomb sniffing dogs everywhere making sure things were safe.  During the ceremony there was some commotion and apparently it took three “Bobby’s” to get one of the dogs away from Pippa’s backside. Apparently the powder sniffing dog had been cross-trained to smell for heavy metals too, and since Pi... Timemaster MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4872242 Thu, 26 May 2011 06:51:35 +0100 4872242 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4747887&cid=t_106061_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FScX2CHW6fmI%2F Welcome back, everyone. Nice to see you again after a much-needed break. Hope your own time off was pleasant. Now, of course, the routine of meetings and deadlines has returned. To cope, we are brewing a mandatory cup of stimulation - our flavor today is Wild Mountain Blueberry. Please join us as we catch up with the recent news of the world. And so, here are some tidbits to help your day get started. Stay in touch… FDA Staff Raises Safety Concern With Merck Hepatitis C Drug (Reuters) Vertex Hopes FDA Panel Will OK Its Hep C Treatment (Boston Globe) AstraZeneca To Demolish R&D Facility (Delaware Online) Eisai Aricept Patch For Alzheimer’s Fails To Win FDA Approval (Bloomberg News) Sun Pharma To Sell Merck Diabetes Drugs In India (Reuters) Dr. Reddy’s To Sell Pfizer A... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4747887 Mon, 25 Apr 2011 12:01:51 +0100 4747887 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4696689&cid=t_106061_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F04%2F09%2Fthe-longevity-project-an-interview-with-howard-s-friedman%2F We present many examples showing that this is how the long-lived participants lived. However if your coworkers are making you miserable, and you do not have the adequate resources to do your job properly, then it is time to look for a new job when possible. 3. Also interesting to me was the discussion of marriage. It’s not necessarily that a person is married, but the quality of relationships in his/her life. What are some characteristics of a healthy marriage that lead to longevity? Dr. Friedman: We are still looking in more detail at the characteristics of a healthy marriage. We know that divorced men fared poorly in terms of their future health and longevity. We know that the overall marital satisfaction of the man is more important to the future health of both the men and the wom... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4696689 Sat, 09 Apr 2011 11:26:07 +0100 4696689 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4610808&cid=t_106061_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fyour-dog-may-be-your-best-personal-trainer%2F2011.03.18 Earlier this week there was an article in the NY Times by Tara Parker-Pope  –Forget the Treadmill. Get a Dog. — which states in a more elegant way what I have been saying for years now. ……Several studies now show that dogs can be powerful motivators to get people moving. ….. Just last week, researchers from Michigan State University reported that among dog owners who took their pets for regular walks, 60 percent met federal criteria for regular moderate or vigorous exercise. ……. A study of 41,500 California residents also looked at walking among dog and cat owners as well as those who didn’t have pets. Dog owners were about 60 percent more likely to walk for leisure than people who owned a cat or no pet at all. …….. I have called my dog Rusty my personal traine... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4610808 Fri, 18 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4610808 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4600565&cid=t_106061_106_f&fid=36682&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSutureForALiving%2F%7E3%2F-BhkE6Z5Lno%2Fwalking-dog.html Earlier this week there was an article in the NY Times by Tara Parker-Pope  --Forget the Treadmill. Get a Dog.  -- which states in a more elegant way what I have been saying for years now.  ……Several studies now show that dogs can be powerful motivators to get people moving. ….. Just last week, researchers from Michigan State University reported that among dog owners who took their pets for regular walks, 60 percent met federal criteria for regular moderate or vigorous exercise. ……. A study of 41,500 California residents also looked at walking among dog and cat owners as well as those who didn’t have pets. Dog owners were about 60 percent more likely to walk for leisure than people who owned a cat or no pet at all. …….. I have called my dog Rusty my pers... Suture for a Living blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4600565 Wed, 16 Mar 2011 17:45:00 +0100 4600565 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4600570&cid=t_106061_107_f&fid=36672&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sciencebase.com%2Fscience-blog%2Fsix-science-selections-3.html How Radiation Threatens Health – Why and how does exposure to radiation make you ill? What levels of exposure are dangerous and what levels are lethal? Fukushima is a triumph for nuke power – Quake + tsunami = 1 minor radiation dose so far, says El Reg. Tragic as recent events in Japan have been. We should be building more nuclear reactors not fewer. Global warming caused by burning more and more fossil fuel in coming decades will have a far more detrimental effect on many more people than minor nuclear leaks. Dog walking ‘is good exercise’ – Owning a dog but not walking it is bad for the dog’s owner as well as the dog. NHS Choices unravels the spin on recent headlines proclaiming dog ownership good for health. Top banana – Atomic absorption spectr... Sciencebase Science Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4600570 Wed, 16 Mar 2011 10:00:06 +0100 4600570 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4314009&cid=t_106061_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fi-smell-health-trouble%2F2011.01.05 I was surfing around the Net one day and I found this article about scientists who are creating a machine that will detect acetone in someone’s breath. Acetone can be a sign that someone suffers from diabetes, so in theory this machine could use scent to diagnose this disease. That story brought to mind other stories I’ve heard about people using dogs to sniff out cancer in people. According to this article: “The results of the study showed that dogs can detect breast and lung cancer with sensitivity and specificity between 88% and 97%. The high accuracy persisted even after results were adjusted to take into account whether the lung cancer patients were currently smokers. Moreover, the study also confirmed that the trained dogs could even detect the early stages of lung ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4314009 Wed, 05 Jan 2011 14:00:00 +0100 4314009 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4265987&cid=t_106061_117_f&fid=38856&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.timemastermd.com%2F%3Fp%3D1632 If your jeans brand is “Wide Load” perhaps you might consider a exercise, diet and supplement program.  But, if you don’t exercise, you won’t be burning off that bodacious bootie, you will just be burning bucks. The problem is it is hard to find something to help reduce those unwanted pounds.  Two recent Swedish studies have shown 9 popular weight loss supplements were no more effective than the fake supplements they were compared with.  There are scores of slimming supplements out there claiming weight-loss effects through all sorts of mechanisms of action. Ads for ”fat magnets, mobilizers and dissolvers, as well as appetite tamers, metabolism boosters, carb blockers” are everywhere.   Researchers tested selected plant extracts and found them ... Timemaster MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4265987 Thu, 16 Dec 2010 21:56:02 +0100 4265987 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4245414&cid=t_106061_117_f&fid=38856&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.timemastermd.com%2F%3Fp%3D1586 Claudia Schiffer The bodacious German supermodel eats salad and steamed vegetables for dinner and eats only fruits before the afternoon. While on locations, she prefers to eat black grapes and drinks tomato juice and herbal tea.  Maybe the tomatoes are partially responsible for her amazing looks? Lycopene, which is what makes tomatoes red, is nature’s most powerful antioxidant; studies have shown that increased lycopene consumption can lead to decreased risks of heart disease as well as certain types of cancers, including breast, prostate, and colorectal and may also lower the amount of LDL or “bad” cholesterol.  No word on whether it makes your hair blond, curly, and sexy. Tomato juice can, however,  significantly increase the presence of cell-protecting antioxidants that help ... Timemaster MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4245414 Thu, 09 Dec 2010 05:13:12 +0100 4245414 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4225529&cid=t_106061_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2F1mWot-saoUE%2F photo: Thinkstock Check out this post about married people and their pets by Liz Ozaist on Lemondrop. If you’re a married woman, chances are you spend a lot of time chatting it up with your canine or cat instead of your human companion. According to a recent Associated Press/Petside poll, a third of married gals claim their furry live-ins are much better listeners than their husbands. Of the 1,112 people surveyed nationwide, one in 10 said they’d rather kvetch to their pet than their betrothed — and 18 percent of those respondents were actually men! Keep reading on Lemondrop. Post from: BlissTree Relationships: Women Would Rather Open Up to Their Pet Than Their Partner (Source: Genetics and Health) Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4225529 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 21:20:56 +0100 4225529 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4205993&cid=t_106061_117_f&fid=38856&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.timemastermd.com%2F%3Fp%3D1021 If I pull her finger and she passes gas, I’ll get an erection? The stink of flatulence and rotten eggs could provide a surprising lift for men. Hydrogen sulphide (smell of sewer gas) causes erections in rats and may one day provide an alternative to Viagra for men.  The verdict is unclear about the gassy female Viagra effect, but so far it seems women don’t seem to get turned on as much by farting men. The smell of sex is in the air – too bad you might vomit. How Viagra Farts Work The penis is packed with spongy tissue that produces an erection when it fills with blood. Nitric oxide (the blue spot to the left) helps relax the walls of arteries that supply the penis, allowing extra blood to flow in. Viagra works by blocking an enzyme that destroys NO. Farts seem to incre... Timemaster MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4205993 Sat, 27 Nov 2010 16:04:56 +0100 4205993 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4168158&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=39212&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbahtocancer.com%2F2010%2F11%2Flessons-from-hope%2F Hope is, without a doubt, Joy’s dog. Every morning, when Joy leaves for school, Hope goes straight upstairs and barks and cries at her bedroom door. They are as inseparable as dog and 14 year old can be. Joy is blossoming and maturing with her new role as dog owner, dog carer, dog friend and dog mentor. It’s lovely to see. But it’s also lovely sharing the house with the two of them. There are so many pleasures that come from having a dog. I love the walking. Joy walks Hope in the morning, but she gets one morning a week off and I take over. So this morning, with the sky the blue of a frozen Alpine stream and the air in frost flakes around us, Hope and I had a little tramp through the fields behind our house. The ground was muddy, but also icy, so I had the fun of walking through som... Bah! to cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4168158 Mon, 15 Nov 2010 09:41:16 +0100 4168158 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4082196&cid=t_106061_117_f&fid=38856&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.timemastermd.com%2F%3Fp%3D1378 Near Death Experience Might be Worth it With Eva Mendes in her red bikini!~ She can cause a heart to stop, and get it beating, plus get rid of that pesky Erectile Dysfunction  problem in the meantime.  So, for heart failure, or erection failure – call 911!  Tell them you have a erection emergency! Back to the heart of the matter… NEW Cardiopulmonary Rescue (CPR) GUIDELINES OUT! The change ditches the old ABC training — airway-breathing-compressions. That called for rescuers to give two big breaths first, then alternate with 30 presses.  Now,  CPR should begin with chest compressions instead of opening the victim’s airway and breathing into their mouth first.  (this only applies if someone who is not hot is doing the rescue) New York CPR A man falls to the s... Timemaster MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4082196 Tue, 19 Oct 2010 01:54:33 +0100 4082196 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4074441&cid=t_106061_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FP2wK003B2K0%2F If you thought obese humans are the only creatures on earth susceptible to harm from a diet pill, consider overweight dogs, specifically those taking Pfizer’s Slentrol pill. The FDA is planning a pharmacogenomic study to determine whether reported adverse drug events are associated with genetic variations in the dogs treated with the pill, which was approved in 2007. Why? A preliminary analysis by the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine indicates potential correlations between certain dog breeds and some side effects, according to a notice in the Federal Register. The notice did not specify side effects or breeds, but Slentrol labeling shows that vomiting occurred in nearly 25 percent of the dogs, 12 percent suffered diarrhea and nearly 10 percent grew lethargic (so much for r... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4074441 Fri, 15 Oct 2010 13:04:24 +0100 4074441 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4065612&cid=t_106061_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FZDX54PCfp40%2F A Massachusetts woman has filed a lawsuit against Merck and another company, Digital Angel, which make implantable radio tracking chips for pets, and claims her cat developed cancer after an implant was inserted, The Boston Globe writes. In a lawsuit filed in Cambridge District Court, Andrea Rutherford claims the companies violated an implied warranty that Merck’s HomeAgain chip was safe, and seeks “reasonable compensatory damages and interest.’’ The devices contain chips that transmit an ID code and can be scanned so lost pets are returned to their owners (read more here). Merck acquired the Home Again product line when it bought Schering-Plough and its Intervet animal health business. Animal rights lawyer Steven Wise, who is Rutherford’s attorney, tells the Globe that she f... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4065612 Wed, 13 Oct 2010 20:18:20 +0100 4065612 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4053382&cid=t_106061_117_f&fid=38856&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.timemastermd.com%2F%3Fp%3D1319 Who would have thought that celery could turn out to be far more effective than Viagra or any other sex-enhancing drug ever produced? This green tasteless vegetable is loaded down with excellent amounts of vitamin E, magnesium, niacin, potassium and zinc – all required for optimum sex. Elizabeth Shreve really has a unique way of expressing herself – I like it! It gets even better. Celery contains arginine, a natural amino acid that expands blood vessels much like Viagra. Yet, unlike Viagra, arginine also increases blood flow to the clitoris and makes female genitals more responsive. Furthermore, the actual aroma of celery contains two steroids called androsterone and androstenol. The research showed that the subtle odor of these two chemicals travels through the nose and attra... Timemaster MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4053382 Sun, 10 Oct 2010 13:38:47 +0100 4053382 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4045360&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=39212&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbahtocancer.com%2F2010%2F10%2Fjoy-and-hope%2F Joy has been campaigning for a dog for about 8 years now. It was an easy ‘no’ while we were in London and she lived between our home and her Dad’s. The ‘no’ became more complex when we were moving to Northumberland. So complicated, in fact, that it turned into a ‘yes’. In the summer we went to Northumberland Greyhound Rescue and met Laura, a three year old retired greyhound who Joy instantly fell in love with. Yesterday, she arrived to join us at our temporary home with my parents. (In an ideal world we’d have waited until we moved, but we’re still not sure how long that will be. Next week looks good. But I say that every Friday.) Within five minutes she was licking Joy’s face and sniffing around inquisitively. Joy has renamed her... Bah! to cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4045360 Fri, 08 Oct 2010 11:25:44 +0100 4045360 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4018394&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F09%2Fthe-saga-continues-.html So, as you all probably know from my post the other day (See: Jeanne vs. Shingles: Jeanne Wins!), I did make the trip to the LA area to see Dr. Ibrahim at the Beaver Medical Group in Highland... I've spend the last two days getting a bone survey, a CT, a bone scan, and another test or two that I can't recall right now. However, due to a staff mess-up, one of the tests I needed had not been scheduled at all, and two more were booked for the same time on the same day at different facilities ... Fortunately, I felt like something was wrong on Tuesday when I was in seeing the trial coordinator, Tricia Ramos, about making sure the SCCA records dept. did fax the missing parts of my 12-year-cancer-history medical chart.  There was info in those early records that Dr. Ibrahim needed.... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4018394 Thu, 30 Sep 2010 10:03:55 +0100 4018394 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3983526&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F09%2Fhappy-days.html Today is Day Six of my hospital stay, and I'm missing my dog, Constant, big time. So last night I was scrolling through the dogs category of my blog, looking at the photos and also rereading some posts. I've had Connie for five years, so there was a lot to read. Then, I thought that it might be a good idea to balance all the recent bad news and my poor physical condition, by rereading some of my Happiness posts.   I picked some to link to:   Happiness Is Two Big Dogs and Miles of Beach Constant's Baby Photo Birthday Dog A Happy Photo  Color     The Assertive Cancer Patient Feels Surprisingly Happy Cancer Bloggers: Health and Happiness One Perfect Day   @ Jeanne Sather 2010.        (Source: The ... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3983526 Mon, 20 Sep 2010 02:40:06 +0100 3983526 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3965704&cid=t_106061_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F0BKEg-uDqt0%2F Hello, everyone. Nice to see you again. We hope you enjoyed the weekend, which amounted to an extended break, in our case. In any event, the routine has now returned and, of course, we are brewing the mandatory cup of stimulation to help us along. Please join us with a cup of your own, or a water bottle, perhaps, we scan the news of the world. Have a great day and stay in touch… IRB Delays Frustrate Investigators (OutsourcingPharma) India Becomes A Hub For Counterfeit Meds (The Washington Post) Genzyme Sells Genetics Unit For $925M To LabCorp (Associated Press) An Eli Lilly Scout Discusses Social Media (140conf) AstraZeneca And UCL Sign Stem Cell Deal (The Guardian) Hopes Fade For Roche And Ipsen Diabetes Drug (Reuters) Mcgarrybowen Wins Creative Duties On Pfizer Advil Account (AdWee... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3965704 Mon, 13 Sep 2010 11:56:12 +0100 3965704 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3960038&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F09%2Fthe-house-is-awfully-quiet.html  I decided that I needed to lighten my responsibilities, so I sent the three foster kittens back to the rescue. Even though I hated to do it, I sent Mugi-cha back with her sisters. It doesn't make sense for me to keep a kitten when I'm facing foreclosure on my house. Constant the Wonder Dog has gone to stay with my friend Pat in Olympia for about a week. He wasn't getting enough exercise at home with me, and I was feeling guilty about that. Pat is an athlete--she competes in triathlons--so Connie will get LOTS of exercise with her. Pat is the friend who is going to take Connie after I die, so it's also good for him to spend some time with her now. (See: Connie Has a New Home)But the house is awfully quiet. @ Jeanne Sather 2010.  (Source: ... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3960038 Sat, 11 Sep 2010 22:51:47 +0100 3960038 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3876706&cid=t_106061_106_f&fid=36682&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSutureForALiving%2F%7E3%2Ff_1rofPqYaM%2Fshout-outs_17.html Dr. Pullen is the host for this week’s  Grand Rounds.  You can read this week’s edition here (photo credit). Welcome to Grand Rounds Vol. 6 Number 47.  The theme this week is “In the Office.”   This is to be interpreted loosely. My office is an outpatient family medicine office, some of the author’s offices range from a South African Emergency Room to a Vancouver, WA psychology office.  Others are submitted by patient’s discussing their experience at the office or posts about some of the absurdities we face as physicians in our “office lives.”  As usual the medical writing community sent good stuff.  My choice for best in each category is listed first. The rest are in no particular order.  …... ………………………�... Suture for a Living blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3876706 Tue, 17 Aug 2010 11:41:33 +0100 3876706 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3867046&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F08%2Fheading-to-the-mountain.html Today's weather forecast for Seattle is for 90-plus degrees, one of my oldest (and dearest) friends is in town for the weekend, and I'm feeling frisky. The answer? We are heading to Mt. Rainier for the day to see the wildflowers. Actually, I plan to ROLL in the wildflowers, and certainly take lots of photos, if I can find my small digital camera ... It's been awhile since I've been there. The last time was about eight years ago, and I drove myself (which I won't be doing today) and took along Younger Son, a friend of his, and YS's Golden, GB. GB rolled in patches of snow and danced through small ponds and lakes and just had himself a hell of a time, as did we, with the exception of YS's friend, who apparently did not understand the definition of the ... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3867046 Sat, 14 Aug 2010 17:04:27 +0100 3867046 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3845250&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F08%2Fspot-the-kitten.html  Every litter of kittens we have fostered over the past eight or 10 years has quickly found the same gap in the bathroom baseboards that allows them to get behind a stack of drawers.  First, they get under and behind the drawers, then, within about another day, they discover that they can get into the drawers themselves from the back and push them open.  This kitten, a calico, is the shyest of the three. But, as you can see, she found the secret hiding place.  The Animal Talk Rescue which we foster kittens for--also the place I got Constant the Wonder Dog, who came home with me as a foster puppy at the age of 3 weeks--always needs help. Anything you can offer--time, money, old towels ... the list goes on. Give them a call: 206-526-1558.  ... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3845250 Sun, 08 Aug 2010 07:26:51 +0100 3845250 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3776568&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F07%2Fnibbling-my-way-through-the-garden.html Yesterday, I nibbled my way through the garden as I was watering, and this is what I found to eat:The very first ripe cherry tomato of the season. It was a rich, golden yellow. Delicious.Four baby carrots, in colors ranging from white to yellow to the traditional orange. Two or three ripe blueberries, and two pea pods with peas. I opened them and ate the peas first, then crunched on the pods.  It's hot again today, so I've just spent the past hour and a half watering, deadheading, and harvesting a few more delicacies. These included:Three more ripe blueberries. Two tiny French strawberries, the first of the year on a plant I grew from seed. These berries are so small, but I swear each one has the flavor of its much larger cousin. One red bell pepper, f... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3776568 Wed, 21 Jul 2010 21:05:15 +0100 3776568 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3733049&cid=t_106061_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Feco-friendly-pets-could-puppies-really-be-bad-for-the-environment%2F photo: Thinkstock Your dog doesn’t drive a car, use electronics in an office building, or drink bottled water (he doesn’t, does he?), which sounds pretty eco-friendly to us. But according to Time to Eat the Dog? The Real Guide to Sustainable Living, dogs are worse for the earth than SUVs. We’ll have to read the book to find out exactly why, but we’re guessing it has to do with unsustainable pet food and plastic toys. Eco Salon suggests that if you aren’t already a dog-owner, you may want to try a more eco-friendly pet like a hamster, canary, fish, or cat. But…but…but…We love dogs. We think that as long as you try to make your pet’s life as green as you can, you should adopt that puppy you’ve been visiting in the shelter. After all, who el... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3733049 Wed, 07 Jul 2010 21:08:24 +0100 3733049 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3730042&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F07%2Fconstant-the-wonder-dog-turns-5.html  My dog Constant, my constant companion, turns 5 this month. Hard to believe, especially when you see how much energy he has whenever he sees a tennis ball or a frisbee or one of my close friends. (We still haven't gotten the jump-all-over-people-you-like thing cured, although I'm working on it as much as I can.)Monica took this photo of Connie giving me a kiss on the cheek when we were at the beach a week ago. Connie has quite a large vocabulary, including "kiss," and he will kiss on command. He also understands "kitchen," "dinner" (for either of his two meals), "ball," "drop it," "off," "shake," and the more usual "come," "sit," "lie down," and "stay." H... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3730042 Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:50:49 +0100 3730042 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3726589&cid=t_106061_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Flast-week-at-the-gloss%2F If you’re looking for ways to handle a Bridezilla, or need to know why they might ban white t-shirts in Pennsylvania, check out the top ten posts from last week on TheGloss, our sister site: 1. How to Handle a Bridezilla 2. Pennsylvania State Senator Trying to Ban White T-Shirts 3. A Guide to Handling Your Friend’s PDA 4. Why Do We Stay Facebook Friends With People We Dislike? 5. World’s Ugliest Dog Looks Pretty Cute to Us 6. How Ladies Make Money: Advice From 1890 7. Meet Alex, the Sexy Hurricane Who is Sending Texans Awhirl 8. The Positive Effects of Grooming and Beauty 9. If Steve Carell Leaves ‘The Office’, Does Anybody Care? 10. Fashion 101: 8 Iconic Movie Bathing Suits and Where to Get Them Post from: BlissTree Top 10 Posts From Last Week on TheGloss (S... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3726589 Mon, 05 Jul 2010 17:00:23 +0100 3726589 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3721742&cid=t_106061_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fkids-reenact-the-american-revolution-ridiculously-cute-video-of-the-day%2F Sometimes we get so caught up in all the fireworks, hot dogs, and beer that we forget about the true meaning of the Fourth of July: Absurdly adorable children. Oh, and the American Revolution. Yet somehow, we thought our forefathers would be taller. Post from: BlissTree Kids Reenact the American Revolution: Ridiculously Cute Video of the Day (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3721742 Fri, 02 Jul 2010 18:05:40 +0100 3721742 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3703067&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F06%2Fheading-to-the-beach.html I'm heading to the beach today with my friend Laurie, and won't be back in Seattle until late Tuesday. I'll be out of e-mail contact, and so won't be able to respond to comments on my blog, orders for jewelry, or just plain old e-mails until after I return. Monica is joining us tomorrow, and we are going to have a good time, trust me. I've been stronger emotionally this past week, and seeing several good friends helped a lot with that, but physically I feel like crap, not to put too fine a point on it. Not much energy. Not much physical strength. Appetite still a problem. I almost got myself in trouble again the other day by not drinking or eating much for about six hours, but I think I caught it in time and drank and ate better yesterday. I'... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3703067 Sun, 27 Jun 2010 16:51:52 +0100 3703067 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3701669&cid=t_106061_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fwet-dog-photo-of-the-day%2F This pooch looks so happy and summery and athletic, that we can’t help but hope our (and your) Saturday is half as fun. Photo from Flickr user chris hau Post from: BlissTree Adorable Wet Dog: Photo of the Day (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3701669 Sat, 26 Jun 2010 14:00:34 +0100 3701669 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3701702&cid=t_106061_106_f&fid=36682&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSutureForALiving%2F%7E3%2Fz4ULZJ00l_E%2Fmy-dog-hair-shawl.html Early in my blogging life I wrote a post called: Hair of the Dog (May 28, 2007). Here it is followed by more of the story and photos of my dog hair shawl. …………………….. It will have been 4 years on May 30th since Ladybug was euthanized. She had osteosarcoma of the left maxilla. And no that isn't a cigar in her mouth. It's a rolled up rawhide treat. Ladybug was half-Rottweiler and half-Pyrenees. She was nearly 8 years old when she died. She was a charmer! She would sit with her hunches on the sofa and her front legs on the floor. She is missed. The origins of the phrase "hair of the dog" seem to go back to "the Romans and many ancient peoples before them believed that like cures like. They would bind the hairs of a dog that had bitten someone to that very pers... Suture for a Living blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3701702 Sat, 26 Jun 2010 11:27:00 +0100 3701702 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3687324&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F06%2Fa-good-day-for-a-change.html The sun is out today--thank goodness--and it's warmer, but still not the usual Seattle temperature for June. (I think it's only in the low 60s.)Still, that, along with my getting a really good night's sleep, is enough to improve my mood tremendously. The cat continues to do well, although she keeps trying to get that cone off her neck. But she ate this morning, and I got her pill down her on the second try. Cats are sneaky, and she spit it out on the floor after my first try. Mind you, this was with her wrapped in a towel and held by Megan so she couldn't scratch. But if you can't get the pill past the cat's tongue, she can spit it out. Then Megan and I took Connie for a walk down to the park and played catch with him in the big field there. He hadn'... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3687324 Tue, 22 Jun 2010 20:21:41 +0100 3687324 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3629825&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F06%2Fmegans-coming-over-today.html  My friend Megan came over on Tuesday for three hours, and we cleaned the bathroom together--to what I all the "female standard of cleanliness," so nice--then we walked Connie in the park, and he behaved pretty well after a few minutes of craziness when he first spotted Megan. Then we ran a few errands, with Megan driving: to the bead store and the grocery store. We were out of cat food, dog food, and coffee! All essentials. Then that afternoon I had an appt. with Dr. Eulau, my radiation oncologist, as I'm in pain again, so I need to go in for more X-rays, but more about that later. Megan is coming again today, and the plan is to get the front garden weeded and mulched (which Younger Son has been promising me for weeks he will help with, and it's still n... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3629825 Thu, 03 Jun 2010 16:40:00 +0100 3629825 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3625569&cid=t_106061_106_f&fid=36682&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSutureForALiving%2F%7E3%2Fgi3ZZYRW7_g%2Fdog-bite-prevention.html It seems that each year, I just miss National Dog Bite Prevention Week which is the third full week of May. As you know, it’s June already. Can it ever hurt to review such important information? More than 4.7 million people a year receive bites from man/woman’s best friend. If you have read this blog for very long, you know I dearly love my dogs -- deceased ones (Columbo, Ladybug (photo), and Girlfriend) and the living one, Rusty. I have no illusions that dogs bite and given the right provocation, I think mine would though most of the time they are totally harmless and would just invite you in to rob me. Most dog bite-related injuries occur in children 5-9 years of age. Almost two thirds of injuries among children 4 yrs or younger are to the head or neck region. Dog bites are a larg... Suture for a Living blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3625569 Thu, 03 Jun 2010 11:01:00 +0100 3625569 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3614660&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F05%2Frewriting-my-endoflife-plans.html The last time I was hospitalized, in April, I sweated and stewed a lot about the fact that my end-of-life planning documents were seriously out of date. After all, I had written them in 2004, and then updated some of them the following year. (I wrote a will when I was first diagnosed, in 1998, so this was my second will.)I've been meaning to redo them ever since I can remember, and that intention got another kick in the pants when Dr. Lee suggested a family meeting shortly thereafter. So I got together with Laurie and Monica, who have volunteered to help me with all of this, and we had lunch and talked and took some notes. Then came the family meeting with Dr. Lee (the boys were included in that) and a second family meeting with my therapist (no boys). And finally, last wee... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3614660 Sun, 30 May 2010 20:09:14 +0100 3614660 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3610311&cid=t_106061_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fpet-friendly-green-living-for-dogs-and-cats%2F photo: Thinkstock Many of us try to be as eco-friendly as our budgets allow. Green thinking probably has spread to a variety of areas in your life – shopping, eating, cleaning habits. But what about Fido or Mittens? Check out these tips on how to make your pet’s life more eco-friendly. 1. Check out what type of cat litter you buy; if it’s lumping clay, it could expose you to carcinogenic silica dust. Switch to one made from pine, wheat, or newspaper, like Swheat Scoop. 2. Make sure the flea or tick treatments you use aren’t toxic. They could contain pesticides that leave residue on your pet’s fur, and cause them to have brain or nervous system damage. Check out some natural treatments for animals here. 3. Reconsider what your pet eats. Some pet foods contain chemi... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3610311 Fri, 28 May 2010 21:41:47 +0100 3610311 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3599677&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35302&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FWhitePebble%2F%7E3%2FOmkHangrx1Y%2F (Source: white pebble) white pebble blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3599677 Mon, 24 May 2010 22:34:37 +0100 3599677 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3560498&cid=t_106061_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F6PUQzXUi6TE%2F Pontificators are having a field day deciphering healthcare reform and PricewaterhouseCoopers is no exception. The consulting firm has just released a report concluding that, despite expanded coverage that will increase revenue, overall drug sales will decline by 4.3 percent from what they would have been otherwise between 2010 and 2019. The bill increases Medicaid rebates, expands discounts to 340b hospitals, requires Medicare Part D discounts and adds a big fees over 10 years. Specifially, a typical big pharma should see a 4 percent drop in revenue, and a large generic drugmaker should see a 2 percent boost. Meanwhile, a medium-size drugmaker with low government sales should expect only a 1 percent decline, but a large drugmaker with lots of government sales can expect a 7 percent drop. ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3560498 Thu, 13 May 2010 11:16:46 +0100 3560498 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3556336&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F05%2Fsorting-beads-walking-connie-.html My friend Jennifer came over today to give me some help, and we started by sorting beads, continuing the job that Monica and I started yesterday. We made quite a bit of progress, although it's still not done. I need to go and buy some more bead boxes, and then there are some parts of the job that only I can do, like sorting findings.  However, once we are done, my work space will be reduced to HALF the dining table and maybe just a tiny piece of the window seat, so that people can actually dine in the dining room again. Then, we went to take Connie for a walk. Jennifer had offered to walk him on her own, but I was feeling like I wanted to get out (another gorgeous day) and so I went along as well. First I thought we'd just walk him down to the park and throw a ten... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3556336 Tue, 11 May 2010 21:30:52 +0100 3556336 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3526917&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F05%2Fconnie-has-a-new-home.html  Started reading my e-mail this morning, and there was a message from one of my oldest friends, Pat, offering Constant the Wonder Dog a new home. I am so happy!And this couldn't be better. This is a friend who has owned big dogs before, and she used to take care of our Golden for us when we were out of town. Plus she normally gets a lot of exercise, which Connie desperately needs. This also means Connie can stay with me for as long as possible, and then go to his new home. Huge relief. @ Jeanne Sather 2010. (Source: The Assertive Cancer Patient) The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3526917 Sun, 02 May 2010 19:29:57 +0100 3526917 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3524429&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F05%2Fa-raccoon-called-connie.html When I went outside this morning and found that something had been digging in my newly planted snow peas, I of course assumed it was raccoons during the night. But no. I caught the culprit in the act later today, and it was Constant the Wonder Dog, happily digging away. Now I don't know if his goal was the sprouted peas, because he likes vegetables, or if it was the rich dirt, full of composted material. (He's eaten dirt before, especially when I have just added chicken compost.)I'm keeping Connie out of the back yard till I have a chance to cover the planter box and also check to see if he left me any peas at all. If not, I'll have to replant. @ Jeanne Sather 2010.  (Source: The Assertive Cancer Patient) The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3524429 Sat, 01 May 2010 20:11:06 +0100 3524429 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3519656&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fa-bad-day.html You would think, after getting such good news yesterday that I would have felt great today, but nope. I spent the day feeling moderately crappy physically, a bit depressed mentally, and--to top it off--feeling sorry for myself. Go figure. Call it the yo-yo effect. A good day, then a bad day. All the e-mails from readers helped a lot, so thanks for those. A woman named Beth who has been popping up on my blog with comments lately e-mailed and told me some of her story and also told me some of the ways my blog had helped her, and that helped me. Thanks, Beth. Today's worries--Even if I can get access to the new cancer drug I'm chasing, do I really have the physical strength to fly back and forth to the Bay Area every three weeks? Let's not forget that I got... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3519656 Fri, 30 Apr 2010 03:28:31 +0100 3519656 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3508245&cid=t_106061_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F04%2F27%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-april-27-2010%2F You know what I love most about this crazy roller coaster ride we call life? I appreciate the opportunity it gives us each and every day to do better and be better. And through challenges, heartbreaks and rock bottom moments, we pick ourselves up, keep growing and learn more in this ongoing classroom of life. We just need to be fully conscious and open our eyes and hearts to take advantage of it. Take this week’s round-up of top posts, for example. Scroll down and you’ll discover new movements and programs changing our world, ways to become a better person, how to get clear on your fears and take control of your own destiny. Not a bad list for the beginning of the week. Puppies Behind Bars: Helping Inmates and Veterans Alike (Forensic Focus) – Dogs provide a wealth of phy... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3508245 Tue, 27 Apr 2010 10:59:16 +0100 3508245 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3499194&cid=t_106061_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fpets-with-chronic-pain%2F I don’t know why but I feel a “ruff, ruff” coming on or should I say “Speak!” Okay, I think I will. I hate it when my pets are ill. It’s really hard to take. Most of us love our dogs and cats like we love our children and find they often behave better. They rarely talk back. They seldom stay out too late. They almost never get involved in drugs, wild parties, and rarely fall into bad company unless you’re counting that female in heat that lives up the block. I do have to officially state, however with full disclosure, that every small dog we’ve had, compared to our large dogs, has peed on the floor far more than the kids ever did; but I digress. If you don’t love your pets this much, well, you can stop reading right now. The current issue of Arthritis Today, for May/June ... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3499194 Thu, 22 Apr 2010 20:18:28 +0100 3499194 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3479859&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fsix-blocks.html OK, this is going to sound like nothing to most of you, and others will go, "Wow!" and get it. Constant the Wonder Dog and I took a six-block walk this morning, with a break at the park to play catch until HE was tired ... and no problems!I am back home on the couch right now, but I feel fine. In fact, I am about to eat more lentils and rice and I'm drinking the lemonade my friend brought over. Homemade. Fresh. No chemicals. I have to remember to do this myself. My strongest emotion right now is a feeling of relief that, yet again, I have dodged a bullet. ClothesI don't think much about clothes these days. I have several different things I like to wear--all very similar--and a couple of gorgeous scarves, and that's about it. But, like many wome... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3479859 Fri, 16 Apr 2010 19:43:18 +0100 3479859 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3475989&cid=t_106061_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FTPx8ktCIZoU%2F Many parents are apprehensive when introducing a newborn to the family dog. However with a few tips, your canine and your baby will be fast friends in no time. Before the intro, allow your dog to sniff an article of the baby’s clothing or her blanket to get familiar with her scent. At the initial meeting, one parent should restrain the dog on a leash, while the other parent sits on a chair holding the baby. Don’t hold the baby over the dog’s head – this will encourage it to jump. Allow your dog to observe the baby from a distance, and stroke your pooch for reassurance. If he exhibits any aggressive behavior, stop the introduction and remove him from the room. You can resume again at another time. Signs of aggression include nipping, pawing, growling, and biting, as well... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3475989 Fri, 16 Apr 2010 13:03:35 +0100 3475989 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3440762&cid=t_106061_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fkid-friendly-dog-breeds%2F When the day comes (and it will come) that you run out of excuses for why your children cannot get a puppy, do some research to ensure that your kids will remain safe, and you will remain happy with (if resigned to) the choice. Here’s a look at a few handsome dog breeds that do well living with human siblings. Weimaraner puppy (Image: sxc.hu) Wire Fox Terrier The American Kennel Club recommends this terrier for families with kids due to the breed’s small yet sturdy build and its friendly nature. An added bonus for mom and the allergic: This dog hardly sheds. Labrador Retriever Although Labs may not be right for families with small children, they are the perfect breed for tweens and teens. This popular pooch became a favorite thanks to its active lifestyle and easygoing temperam... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3440762 Tue, 06 Apr 2010 00:03:55 +0100 3440762 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3366387&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fdelicious-pizza.html My friend Amy, a blogger friend who lives in California, e-mailed me on Friday and asked if she could have a pizza delivered for me. Now, at first pass, it didn't sound appealing, because I haven't had much of an appetite (probably from the Tykerb), but then I thought about it and I said yes. We agreed on a garlic and artichoke pizza (with feta cheese too) to be delivered on Saturday, last night. Amy ordered it from Pagliacci, my favorite pizza place, and it arrived at the door, hot and fragrant, just before 6 p.m. I have to say, that was the most delicious pizza! Thank you, Amy. I ate two huge slices while watching a very forgettable movie on Hulu, and then moved things around in the fridge to make enough room to cram the box in--did I say she ordered me a large?... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3366387 Sun, 14 Mar 2010 18:26:38 +0100 3366387 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3354530&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fhome-sweet-home.html I'm home again in Seattle and happy to be here. The trip home was uneventful--except for some pain in my right ear because of the swollen lymph nodes on that side--and the plane even landed early.I used a wheelchair all the way through both airports--from the gate to the curb--and I've got to say that except for the embarrassment factor it is the way to go. Airports are exhausting, and you have to walk miles pulling or carrying all your stuff--the wheelchair saves a lot of energy.It's raining and cool here in Seattle, and I'm waiting for Constant to arrive home, by dog taxi, for Younger Son to show up to get some papers he needs to renew his passport, and for Dr. Lee to call to discuss the problems I had during the Hawaii trip. Plus he has some test rests for me from before... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3354530 Thu, 11 Mar 2010 18:06:33 +0100 3354530 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3311886&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fintroducing-katy-1.html  My friend Julie e-mailed me today to introducer her new puppy, Katy. This is what Julie has to say about the new puppy: Katy is 15 weeks old and a hellion. She showed her feminist tendencies by starting out by chewing up Don's Swimsuit Edition of Sports Illustrated, so I have great hopes for her. She is very very lively, not housebroken, at a chewy stage, and generally making Scooter's (the other dog in the family) life a living hell. The only place she can't get at him is on our bed, so he spends more time there than I do.  The young ladies (her granddaughters) have welcomed Kate with delight--see photo--and Katy returns it. We are clearly nuts to take this on right now, but what joy and amusement she brings us. And who wouldn't rather ... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3311886 Fri, 26 Feb 2010 05:17:20 +0100 3311886 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3291994&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fsaturday-in-the-park.html Just a quick post to say that I am feeling better and more like myself.Yesterday was horrible, and I'm not going to rehash it here. Also not going to be able to answer all the e-mails I received, at least not right now. I need to take care of some tasks that have been hanging fire and adding to my stress by remaining undone. Also, I haven't walked Connie since the left hip started hurting weeks ago, and Today Is the Day. Connie and I are heading out to the park to get some exercise. It will do us both good. Last night was a tough one, I was in pain and couldn't sleep even though I was exhausted, and I watched a movie called "Bent" on Hulu. About gays in Berlin under the Nazis. A frightening movie, but a good one. I'm behind--again, still--on gett... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3291994 Sat, 20 Feb 2010 20:21:55 +0100 3291994 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3290965&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fnot-a-happy-camper.html So I had an appointment with Dr. Lee the First at 8:30 this morning, 8:30 being normally about the time I wake up, but that was the only appointment time he had this week, or so I was told. (I think the front desk people at the cancer center don't approve of my sleep schedule.) I thought I was getting chemo today, although I wasn't entirely sure.Well, it turns out that Dr. Lee was really booked and double-booked this morning, so he had asked someone on his staff to call me and tell me to come at 10:30 instead, which would have been MUCH better for me, but either they didn't call or I didn't get the message.Then, when I did see Dr. Lee--who had roller skates on this morning, I kid you not--he was not happy about the chest pains. He wanted to hospitalize me to get it sorted o... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3290965 Fri, 19 Feb 2010 22:38:54 +0100 3290965 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3267162&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fa-gift-for-julie-flowers-and-puppy-dogs-.html  I made this bracelet as a gift for Julie, who has been having a tough time lately. She's a dog lover, so I used some very special bakelite buttons in the shape of little Scottie dogs. It goes in the mail tomorrow, and I think she's going to love it. To read more about the bracelet: A Gift for Julie Read more about Julie: Helping Julie Photo: @ Monica Strasen 2010. Design and text: @ Jeanne Sather 2010.  (Source: The Assertive Cancer Patient) The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3267162 Fri, 12 Feb 2010 08:52:32 +0100 3267162 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3244001&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fa-rerun-road-trip.html  I love to travel, and I've done a fair amount of wandering in my 55 years. Today I was talking with a friend (well, she's my former step-sister, but I'm not about to try to explain that one, so let's just call her a friend) about road trips, and after she left I got online and reread some of my posts from my November 2008 road trip to Mesa Verde with Car Guy, Car Guy Junior, and Constant the Wonder Dog. Some highlights:When Seattleites Get Out of Town Postcard From Utah, Or: Where Did They Hide the Great Salt Lake? Yet Another Postcard From Mesa Verde Constant the Wonder Dog, World Traveler  I'm going to Hawaii soon, and then to London with Younger Son in late March, so I've got plenty of travel to look forward to, but neither of these... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3244001 Fri, 05 Feb 2010 03:30:24 +0100 3244001 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3236086&cid=t_106061_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fy8sUVGHi_mE%2F Nearly two years after after a controversial drug used to prevent heartworm in dogs was returned to the market, the FDA will hold a meeting to review a Risk Minimization Action Plan that was put in place to track the safety of the med, known as ProHeart 6. The meeting will be held on March 24 by the FDA’s Veterinary Medicine Advisory Committee (see here) and review 18 months’ worth of data. The question at hand: is the drug truly safe to use? For those who don’t recall, ProHeart 6 was yanked in 2004 after being linked to a high rate of deaths and serious side effects following a review by an FDA vet. However, Wyeth then launched a secret probe into the vet, Victoria Hampshire; raised conflict-of-interest charges against her at the FDA; and implicitly threatened FDA offici... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3236086 Wed, 03 Feb 2010 13:36:02 +0100 3236086 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3223461&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fwhats-on-my-plate-1.html  I was craving high-nutrition foods today, for a change. For dinner, I took an entire bunch of fresh spinach, about two cups, washed it well, and sauteed it with a dab of butter and lots of salt and pepper. That was at least two servings, maybe three, and I ate the whole thing. Of course, once it's cooked it shrinks down to less than half the volume. With the spinach, I had scrambled eggs (Connie had one too), a couple spoonfuls of the olive tampenade from last night's dinner, and some Japanese beans with kombu (kelp). These are meant to be eaten with rice as a side dish, but I must have been craving the protein--they tasted just fine with eggs and spinach. I'm drinking a big glass of pineapple juice mixed with sparkling water. I don't think I ... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3223461 Sat, 30 Jan 2010 03:49:25 +0100 3223461 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3216864&cid=t_106061_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fmore-pet-therapy-my-rescued-lab.html Especially during the past year when I have been recovering from the death of my dearly loved companion, Bill, my lab retriever has gotten me out and about, and brought me smiles and laughter. Here is Mr. Teddy Bear, whom I adopted from the San Luis Obispo County, CA Animal Shelter. He was found roaming in the fields east of Paso Robles and was then a skinny untrained pup about a year old. I trained him with non-force dog training, using bonding, affection and intermittant treats for rewards. He is truly a family member, along with my chihuahua, Heidi. (Source: The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News) The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3216864 Thu, 28 Jan 2010 08:24:00 +0100 3216864 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3201872&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fhawaii-bound.html  I realized, along about the time that I realized that cancer was going to eat the month of January, that the best way for me to cope with this was to dangle a HUGE CARROT in front of my very own nose.The carrot, ladies and gentlemen, is a trip to Hawaii. This trip, usually in February, has become an annual event for my friend Monica and me. Sometimes we take someone else along--her 20-year-old daughter went last year--and sometimes it's just the two of us. Can I afford a trip to Hawaii? Not really. Can Monica, who works for a nonprofit, afford a trip to Hawaii? Not really. But we are going, and we will have a great time.   It's actually not all that expensive. We found the cheapest plane tickets ever, on Hawaiian Air: $309, each, round-tri... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3201872 Sun, 24 Jan 2010 05:21:32 +0100 3201872 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3189197&cid=t_106061_109_f&fid=34730&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychiatrist-blog.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fdoggy-genes-and-ocd.html The timing couldn't be more perfect for an article in the New York Times on the genetics of compulsive behaviors in poochies.In Scientists Find a Shared Gene in Dogs with Compulsive Behavior, Mark Derr talks about the work of Dr. Nicholas Dodman on doberman's who compulsively suck their flanks (hmm, what exactly does that mean?) and a genetic link:Dr. Dodman and his collaborators searched for a genetic source for this behavior by scanning and comparing the genomes of 94 Doberman pinschers that sucked their flanks, sucked on blankets or engaged in both behaviors with those of 73 Dobermans that did neither. They also studied the pedigrees of all the dogs for complex patterns of inheritance. The researchers identified a spot on canine chromosome 7 that contains the gene CDH2 (Cadherin 2), whi... Shrink Rap blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3189197 Wed, 20 Jan 2010 03:33:00 +0100 3189197 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3182378&cid=t_106061_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FLdnZwGl0UqU%2F The wisdom of children and dogs. Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old Irish Wolfhound named Belker. The dog’s owners, Ron, his wife, Lisa, and their little boy, Shane, were all very attached to Belker, and they were hoping for a miracle. I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family we couldn’t do anything for Belker, and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home. As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure. They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience. The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker’s family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for th... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3182378 Sun, 17 Jan 2010 09:55:22 +0100 3182378 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3178799&cid=t_106061_106_f&fid=36682&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSutureForALiving%2F%7E3%2Fj4sBoAnrwYI%2Fmy-personal-trainer.html “Five more minutes,” I tell him as he nimbly places his paws on my knees, brown eyes imploring. “Okay, you win.”  Orange ball cap on my head, gloved hands grab the leash. We exit the gate, the January sun cold as we jog toward the neighbors woods.  Will there be ducks on the pond today? (Source: Suture for a Living) Suture for a Living blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3178799 Sat, 16 Jan 2010 12:11:00 +0100 3178799 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3172161&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fback-home-on-the-couch.html Just a quick post, because I'm tired, I'm in pain, and I had a long and complicated day of medical appointments. The good news is my cyberknife treatments finished today, and I have the four-color certificate to prove it! I could have done without that bit of levity, but maybe other patients feel differently. I also got a hug and a nice goodbye (with a handful of chocolates) from one of my technicians, and that was appreciated. He took good care of me, and made things easy for me, and I will never stop noticing the many people around me who behave like this.He did ask me if I was planning to celebrate tonight, and that hadn't even crossed my mind. When you have metastatic disease, the treatment never really stops, and in fact I have three weeks more of radiation sta... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3172161 Thu, 14 Jan 2010 00:00:04 +0100 3172161 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3136734&cid=t_106061_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fvideo-my-rescued-dogs.html These rescued dogs have returned the favor many times over with their love, affection and comedic antics. Every day has some playful, funny times in it because of these two dogs. They always know how to bring a smile or a laugh to me and to others. "Therapy dogs," pet caregivers, call it what you will. To me they are heroes. (Source: The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News) The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3136734 Sat, 02 Jan 2010 06:19:00 +0100 3136734 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3129654&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2009%2F12%2Fslow-tuesday-.html I hope today is going to be a slow day, because I'm tired after having a house guest for three days and then yesterday's full day of tests and scans. Not that I don't love having a visitor, I do, but it is still tiring.  Even though I have a whole backlog of things that need attention, I am going to limit myself to two or three: making some earrings for Charmed Bracelets, walking Constant the Wonder Dog, and doing a bit of housework (just a bit ... but the house is still in full Christmas mode).  Pain I have some pain I've been ignoring for a few weeks now--could be arthritis (no big deal), could be bone mets that are getting frisky with me not getting any chemo--and I decided yesterday that it was time to stop ignoring this. So I called Dr. Lee the Fi... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3129654 Tue, 29 Dec 2009 19:02:53 +0100 3129654 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3101081&cid=t_106061_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F12%2Fanimal-caregivers-rescued-animals.html Every day I am grateful for my rescued animals, who have returned the favor with their love and affection. They are "animal caregivers" who have special powers like "Super Heroes." They connect intuitively by using their senses in ways that people cannot. Pet therapy can be one of the best prescriptions you ever filled.Rescued animals can provide just the right therapy blend of companionship, affection, comic antics, and playfulness. With their special powers to sense things that humans miss, the animals often really "get it" when no one else does. Active seniors with rescued pets know the animals are like super heroes, connecting in a psychic way. Whether you have a "Wonder Cat," a "Disney Dog," or another type of "Animal Angel", you know the caring and giving you receive is right on targ... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3101081 Thu, 17 Dec 2009 22:25:00 +0100 3101081 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3092890&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2009%2F12%2Fplaying-beauty-shop-with-connie.html Yesterday after our long walk in the rain, Constant the Wonder Dog and I played "beauty shop" together. My hair has started to come back in--it's at the peach fuzz stage right now--and I decided I wanted to color it, because the color was kind of a no-color. So I bought a box of hair dye at the drug store.I debated going with a really extreme color, but I knew the boys wouldn't find that difficult (a mom with purple hair? Pleeeze), so I picked a dark blonde.I read all the instructions, mixed up the goop, and then applied it to my hair. Not much hair there, so I used less than half the bottle. Then, wait 30 minutes. While I was waiting, I grabbed Connie and got him in the shower, where I scrubbed him from nose to tail with doggie shampoo and rinsed, rinsed, rin... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3092890 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 21:21:35 +0100 3092890 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3089499&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2009%2F12%2Fdogs-cancer-and-exercise.html  It's a drizzly, drippy day in Seattle, with no sign of the snow that was forecast, and Constant, the Wonder Dog, and I just returned from a walk in the park. Our park is Seattle's Ravenna Park, which is just two blocks from my house, and it is a wondrous place. There are bridges large and small spanning a deep ravine, a stream, and miles and miles of trails. Plus some great grassy open fields to play on.When I'm deep in the park, I feel like I'm back in the wilds of the Olympic Peninsula, which is where I grew up. Walking a dog in the rain makes me feel very ... what's the word? Not smug, but close to smug ... Proud of myself? Maybe that's it. Because the only folks out on a rainy day tend to be dog walkers. A rare bike rider and even rarer ... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3089499 Mon, 14 Dec 2009 21:31:44 +0100 3089499 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3083169&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2009%2F12%2Fi-did-it.html When I was discharged from the hospital on November 10, I set two goals for myself:One, to walk my dog, Constant, four times a week and go to water aerobics once a week, andTwo, to eat the healthiest diet possible.This week, I surpassed Goal No. 1 and walked Connie five times and went to water aerobics once. That feels so good. And my dog is happier and better behaved as well. I'm doing pretty well on Goal No. 2 as well, primarily by planning ahead on meals rather than waiting till I'm hungry, and by keeping junk food out of the house. That doesn't mean I don't eat any treats or sweets, but I plan ahead on those as well. Homemade puddling may have sugar, but it doesn't have any chemicals or food additives, so I make pudding. And if I want a cookie, I buy ONE... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3083169 Sun, 13 Dec 2009 00:19:49 +0100 3083169 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3071373&cid=t_106061_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fconversations-with-annie-my-jack-russell%2F Last week I was shopping for an extension cord and another timer for holiday decorating, roaming around the store in a fatigued state, wondering if there was something else I needed.  I suddenly and I hope surreptitiously realized I was talking to myself. Now, I know this is a bit strange and have to ask myself several questions. Am I “loop de loop?” Have I truly gone ‘round the bend? Have I been in pain far too long or it is possible those brain cells are dying off faster than I am replacing them? I would have to say a resounding “YES” to all of the above. But talking to myself in public is not my usual behavior and I realized I needed to get a grip. At least I wasn’t wearing my slippers, curlers or green facial crème. Since I was in my son-in-law’s store, his brother appr... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3071373 Tue, 08 Dec 2009 22:35:09 +0100 3071373 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3067072&cid=t_106061_106_f&fid=36682&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSutureForALiving%2F%7E3%2Fyd5fsH9vkUQ%2Fshout-outs_08.html Nuts for Healthcare is this week's host of Grand Rounds. You can read this week’s edition here. Welcome to Grand Rounds! ………………………………….. Medgadget discussed the Lancet article on  Scientists Grow Skin Tissue in Preclinical Study.  Their discussion includes the Lancet podcast discussing the research with two of the study authors, Marc Peschanski MD and Dr Christine Baldeschi PhD. A team of researchers from France and Spain managed to grow complete human skin epidermis from skin-derived stem cells on laboratory mice. The finding could lead to the rapid production of one's own skin patches for people with burns and other severe skin problems. …………………..…………….. Chris, Life in the Fast Lane, wrote about  A Philosophical Dea... Suture for a Living blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3067072 Tue, 08 Dec 2009 15:48:00 +0100 3067072 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3012637&cid=t_106061_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FcowynWVp3eY%2F Here’s a cynical way to boost drug sales. In a press release that tugs on your heart strings, Pfizer reminds us that some people feel bad about leaving their dog at home when they go elsewhere for the holidays. And the drugmaker also notes the family dog can offer so much comfort, especially at times of great stress, such as unemployment (after being laid off by Pfizer, perhaps?) So why not bring Fido with you? After all, what’s another beast at the dinner table when there’s so much turkey to be had? And not to worry that your pooch may suffer from motion sickness during the car ride. Pfizer has it all figured out for you. How so? Pfizer has a salve called Cerenia, which the drugmaker markets to cure….motion sickness in dogs. What a surprise. But caution is advised... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3012637 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 23:42:28 +0100 3012637 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2984982&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2009%2F11%2Fhome-sweet-home.html I am HOME, and I can't begin to tell you how great it is!I slept in my own bed last night, with the window open for some fresh air. I was starved for fresh, real air, with oxygen in it. I made some phone calls yesterday to set up an appt. with my radiation oncologist, the doctor who has treated me three of the five times I've had radiation. We needed to discuss what to do about the new tumor in my skull. The doctor, Dr. Eulau, was able to see me this morning, and I've just come back from there. It has been two years since Dr. Eulau last treated me, so we had a bit of catching up to do. I trust him, which is why I wanted to see him, even though I already was pretty sure he wouldn't be treating me this time. That's because the better treatment for this tumor i... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2984982 Wed, 11 Nov 2009 21:09:50 +0100 2984982 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2974166&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2009%2F11%2Fspring-me-please.html I woke up this morning (Well, I was awakened, a whole different animal...) at 5:30 a.m. for my blood draw, and I was just lying here in bed thinking that I was going to go home once Dr. Lee had checked me over and pronounced me good to go ...But there is one pesky unexplained problem: a pulse rate of 46 this morning. It was that low at least one other time over the weekend, so Dr. Lee had them send in the lady with the EKG machine, and THAT showed that I had had some kind of a cardiac incident at some unspecified time. Now, I wore a halter monitor for the first 48 hours that I was here, and had an EKG then also, but nothing showed up. In any case, a cardiologist is coming around to see me today, and if that is OK I can go home tomorrow. Ninety percent chance, Dr. Lee says.&#016... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2974166 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:31:12 +0100 2974166 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2862530&cid=t_106061_109_f&fid=34730&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychiatrist-blog.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F10%2Fdemystify-me.html We have a blog, we have a podcast, ShrinkRapRoy does some tech/med/psych twittering, and now we're writing a book. We've given one talk together, and once we're finished writing the book, we'll plan to do more as part of marketing the book (and the blog, and the to-be-resumed podcast) There's nothing to say we won't find more projects that compel us as time and technology move on. It's got me thinking that we need some umbrella organization to encompass all the different aspects of our work. I had a quickly-thought-of name; Clink says she can do better. Roy asked what our purpose would be and I assured him we'd have a mission statement, something to do with promoting dialogue, demytifying psychiatry, and decreasing stigma for mental illness. Roy added that we'd want to promote the destigm... Shrink Rap blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2862530 Sun, 04 Oct 2009 23:25:00 +0100 2862530 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2858740&cid=t_106061_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2Fj4C1fBhG-6Y%2F For the first time since we had a chaotically late driver a few years ago, we’ve run into a snag with Alex’s school busing common to the autistic. The driver says Alex is constantly getting up while the bus is in motion and refuses to behave during transport. One part of us finds this hard to believe: Though Alex is certainly capable of disruptive behavior (our family holiday dinners being People’s Exhibit A), he is and always has been a model traveller. Never a whisper of a complaint from any bus company (never a whisper of a compaint from the airline whose planes he once travelled on, either). One part of me, however, believes he’s getting older and more willful, and I can well believe he might be getting up, which is of course unacceptable. “You have to sit... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2858740 Sun, 04 Oct 2009 01:22:05 +0100 2858740 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2834443&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2009%2F09%2Fsandy-jewelry.html I used my phone-free, Internet-free time at the beach to make some jewelry for my online store, Charmed Bracelets. My friend Monica, who photographs my jewelry for me, went with me, so we experimented with some jewelry photos on the beach. This was a great idea--but unfortunately a strong wind was blowing on the afternoon we took all the jewelry down onto the sand. And I mean strong! Strong enough to blow a pair of earrings away. Strong enough to fill our eyes and ears and hair with sand. But we persevered, and this is the result: Bakelite Bracelet in Fall Colors Butterscotch Bakelite Earrings Jade Hoop Earrings Quartz Hoop Earrings Photo: Monica Strasen.@ Jeanne Sather 2009.  (Source: The Assertive Cancer Patient) The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2834443 Sat, 26 Sep 2009 18:24:18 +0100 2834443 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2820552&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2009%2F09%2Fescaping-to-the-beach-.html I'm leaving town in just a few hours, escaping to my favorite beach with my friend Monica and my dog, Constant. Younger Son and I usually spend a week or so at the beach in August, but this year we used the money to go to Germany, and skipped the beach. But I'm feeling like I need some beach time, and Connie certainly does (the beast hasn't been getting enough exercise lately, and it shows in his behavior), so off we go. I'm taking some jewelry projects, so expect to see some new earrings on Charmed Bracelets when I get home, and a few new books. Other than that, the plan is just to walk on the beach and take photos and hang. Heavy emphasis on the hang. The place we stay has no phone, Internet, or even cell phone service, so I will be out of touch.&#... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2820552 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 16:33:51 +0100 2820552 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2814648&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2009%2F09%2Fsunny-sunday.html Why is it that sunshine makes any day better?It's Day Two after my third treatment with my new chemo regimen, and I feel fine. Last night I had trouble sleeping, so I watched some old movies on Hulu until about 3 a.m., and today my plans are fairly simple: Walk my dog and work on my jewelry. I've fallen a bit behind on my jewelry-making, but I expect to get caught up this week while I'm at the beach, so look for new designs on Charmed Bracelets soon. If you haven't taken a look at my jewelry recently, here are a couple of new things: Happy Bakelite Bracelet Antique and Vintage Charms What I'm EatingI just finished eating a couple of nashi, Japanese pear-apples, from the tree in my backyard. They were so delicious, and I need to go outside and see if th... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2814648 Sun, 20 Sep 2009 20:49:52 +0100 2814648 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2772577&cid=t_106061_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F96Egs8SMxqQ%2F It took a long time for post-traumatic stress disorder to be classified as a real diagnosis and even longer to find ways to help people who were experiencing it. You can have a mild version of PTSD or you can have life-affected PTSD, making it almost impossible to live as you would like. Sadly, many people who live with PTSD are returning service men and women. Regardless of their work in countries like Iraq and Afghanistan, the events they see, hear, their experiences, have an enormous impact on them once they return home. While some veterans are able to cope with counseling and other types of psychological or psychiatric help, others are affected severely and need alternate methods. For this, enter the service dog. Service dogs have come a long way from being just for guiding people who ... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2772577 Mon, 07 Sep 2009 02:05:18 +0100 2772577 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2770215&cid=t_106061_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2F1IsEGScRvTA%2F Bow Wow oh Wow: Thieves broke into a home late last week in Prospect, N.Y. The homeowners said the crooks didn’t take jewelry or electronics, but only the five-month-old golden retriever puppy trained as a service dog for children with autism. Image: Bob1217 at flickr.com Both young boys in the home have autism, and the mom says finding the right dog for her boys took two years, and paid quick dividends: the dog recently broke his chain to get to one boy who headed for the road. The dog cost $800, so you can’t really blame the crooks: Look how many canes, wheelchairs, and walkers they’d have to swipe to make $800. Seriously, Hell has no fire hot enough for these guys, but it does sound like they knew just what they were after. Are autism service dogs a hot new target? * * * ... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2770215 Sat, 05 Sep 2009 19:41:09 +0100 2770215 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2757956&cid=t_106061_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fthe-danger-of-falling-when-you-live-with-chronic-pain%2F It’s sometimes amazing to me, how complicated one human life can be. Of course, I think of all of you and know life is complicated for you, also. I know many of you have had the same thought from time to time when life’s problems begin to pile up. Sometimes you feel on top of the heap; other times you’re certain it’s on top of you. Life is never simple for those of us with complex health issues, which is why we need to be on guard. Don’t we have enough to worry about? We are faced with being defensive as we do battle against whatever injury, disease or other unpleasant visitor has nestled into our lives and bodies. We swallow handfuls of pills; give ourselves shots, stretch screaming muscles and jump through any other hoop the doctors hold up. I’m sure the word “jump” will ... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2757956 Tue, 01 Sep 2009 21:02:47 +0100 2757956 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2752117&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2009%2F08%2Fhold-the-chemo.html I went in to my cancer center on Friday, wholly prepared to get my second dose of irinotecan. but Dr. Lee surprised me. He held the dose. I'd had a really hard time with the first round, which was Herceptin and irinotecan by IV, then oral etoposide at home. I only managed to take two doses of etoposide before I called it quits on that one. So I went to my appointment with Dr. Lee with a long list of questions and concerns. As always, he listened carefully and answered fully. Another thing that's great about Dr. Lee: If he doesn't know, he says so. That reassures me, in a paradoxical way, because I know he's being straight with me. No Cancer Dictators in my life!The ListHere's the list:1. I was only able to take two doses of etoposide. (Then I detailed ... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2752117 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 17:53:00 +0100 2752117 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2741542&cid=t_106061_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F08%2Fbreeding-perfection.html Part of the reason for choosing the Labradoodle breed of dog was because the boys have eczema and asthma. We were advised that this breed amongst a few others may lessen the adverse impact of a new pet upon our already very complicated family life. To date, this evidence has proved to be true. Our pet, Thatcher, has won us all over. No-one could ask for a more laid back puppy, huge yet gentle. He sheds like many other dogs but my toils with the vacuum are well worth it. Unlike the rest of the youthful household, he is not in the least bit phased by the whirring of the vacuum. He has already added so much to our family that I cannot imagine life without him any more. We have adjusted to his little doggy ways and the occasional deep baritone bark of warning;- woof, it’s a squirrel, woof, i... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2741542 Fri, 28 Aug 2009 06:30:00 +0100 2741542 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2725193&cid=t_106061_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2FmGn9Nrk6aUU%2F A recent ruling has made it possible for an Illinois student with autism to attend school with his service dog. Illinois state law allows children to attend school with service animals that help them complete “beneficial tasks.” Photo of service dog sculpture in Brooklyn courtesy of Empress M (flickr.com) For more information about autism service dogs, here’s an organization that trains and provides dogs. *    *    * Researchers at Vanderbilt University in Nashville have engineered a robot-playmate that can monitor an autistic child’s levels of interest, boredom, stress and engagement during an activity. *    *    * A Canadian woman has been charged in the death of a 12-year-old boy with autism. A neighbor of the boy, the woman, 42, is said to experience dr... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2725193 Fri, 21 Aug 2009 17:07:57 +0100 2725193 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2725008&cid=t_106061_117_f&fid=38856&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.timemastermd.com%2F%3Fp%3D533 The 24-year-old Victoria’s Secret angel/supermodel, Bar Rafaeli is one of fashion and beauty’s freshest faces and is the face of Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition Hair Products.  There are many people out there that think Bar is one of the prettiest and sexy girls around, so why is she being treated like a dog?  You’ve got to read this to believe it. This new product  from Garnier is getting rave reviews from users, and it certainly fits the new push for healthy products. like fruits, and oils that enhance our looks naturally.  So with fantastic ingredients like Apple Fruit Extract, Lemon Peel Extract, Vitamin B3 – Niacinamide, Vitamin B6 – Pyridoxine, Avocado and Olive Fruit Oils…what is Linalool?  Linalool? Linalool  is used as a natural bot... Timemaster MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2725008 Sun, 16 Aug 2009 15:26:42 +0100 2725008 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2691720&cid=t_106061_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2FLQYZtRRlN04%2Fday-two-hot-dogs.php I know there isn't too much that is creative about hot dogs.  But when my husband, David, got home from work last night I asked him what he wanted for dinner.  I read him the list of ingredients I had and he decided on hot dogs.  So, if you're disappointed in my lack of creativity on this one, you can voice your concerns to David.Tonight's dinner was these delicious hot dogs I bought at Whole Foods a couple weeks ago and threw in the freezer, some fresh corn that my mom gave to us yesterday, salad from the garden, and some baked beans.  It was simple, it was easy, it was delicious.  And David made most of it!  He threw the hot dogs and the corn on the grill, and I picked some romaine lettuce from the garden and made a salad, and opened the can of baked beans.&... Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2691720 Wed, 12 Aug 2009 12:00:00 +0100 2691720 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2688860&cid=t_106061_135_f&fid=35274&url=http%3A%2F%2Facidrefluxweb.com%2F%3Fp%3D3881 All weekend I watched my eldest dog, you know the one I called Betty Ford as she was on a steady dose of narcotics and anti-inflammatory to keep her glued together. Each time she began to cough, I knew in my heart her time was coming to an end. Our journey together began when I picked her out as a puppy at the St. Francis Animal Rescue way the f. out in Scarborough on a cold January day. I was working at MAC Cosmetics at the time at the Queen St. location. I hadn’t set out to get a puppy; I really wanted an older, and trained dog. Instead I did the opposite, and it was a lot of work. Since the dog before her that I left with my ex was an abused shelter animal, I showed “Jo” with lots of love as these innocent souls should never have to know fear from their owners. Her cou... acidrefluxweb.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2688860 Tue, 11 Aug 2009 12:29:39 +0100 2688860 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2685211&cid=t_106061_106_f&fid=36682&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSutureForALiving%2F%7E3%2FG6yZwI6bzBc%2Fsurgexperiences-303-is-up.html Dr Bruce Campbell, Reflections in a Head Mirror, is the host of this edition of SurgeXperiences. You can read the “dog days of summer” edition here. Welcome to the August 9, 2009 edition of surgeXperiences! I'm happy to be hosting again. Here in the Northern Hemisphere, these are the "Dog Days of Summer," so in honor of dogs everywhere, lets chew into the best of the surgical blogosphere. Along the way, we will sniff around a few categories and search for the "Best of Show."   Thanks Dr Campbell for the “vote” for Rusty! The winner of the "BEST IN SHOW" Trophy: Rusty, who lives at Suture for a Living, is one of the medical blogosphere's beloved mascots (along with a certain lobster and some llamas). Rusty is a contestant in the Top Dog in... Suture for a Living blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2685211 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 11:50:08 +0100 2685211 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2685349&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2009%2F08%2Fgetting-those-ducks-in-line-.html I've had a really productive couple of weeks since my trip to Germany, and I'm hoping to keep up the momentum in the week to come, because I have a lot to do. I'm supposed to start my new chemo regimen on Thursday, but I don't have the oral chemo drug, etoposide, because the pharmacy at Northwest Hospital refused to fill it for me. They said the Medicare reimbursement was too low. (See: Not Sure WHO the Bad Guy Is ...)The pharmacist suggested that I try the pharmacy at another cancer center ... which seems like a weird solution. And I realized after I left the pharmacy window that I didn't ask if they had submitted it to my secondary insurance as well as to Medicare. Argh. So tomorrow's most important task is to get my hands on some etoposide. In c... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2685349 Sun, 09 Aug 2009 19:12:38 +0100 2685349 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2653664&cid=t_106061_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FbuIpFzOeoP0%2F We’ve written more than once about the Democratic “Blue Dogs” and the lack of any actual evidence for their supposed fiscal conservatism. Now Merrill Mathews in The Wall Street Journal tells the sad story of the Blue Dogs in the Obama era. They call in the journalists, and they moan and complain about their concerns over the deficit and rising federal spending. And when the rubber meets the road, what happens? • The State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). One of the first things the Democratic leadership wanted the newly inaugurated President Obama to sign was a huge expansion of SCHIP. Democrats have been trying to pass the expansion for over a year, with some bipartisan support. President George W. Bush vetoed the legislation twice, and Congress sustain... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2653664 Thu, 30 Jul 2009 12:37:11 +0100 2653664 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2649247&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2009%2F07%2Fbirthday-dog.html Constant, the Wonder Dog, turned 4 this month. Connie is my constant companion, which is how he got his name. I grew up with animals (my father was a vet), and we always had a dog and a couple of cats. But then as an adult, I was moving around, back and forth across the Pacific Ocean, and working, and so I waited a long time to have a dog of my own. Younger Son got his Golden, GB, when he was 11, and I still didn't realize how much I wanted a dog. Then Connie came to me as a "foster puppy" from the Animal Talk Rescue, which usually sends me kittens to bottle feed. Connie was only a few weeks old, and I thought I would foster him until he was 8 weeks and then give him back to the rescue to find a permanent home. Fat chance! By about the time the photo i... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2649247 Wed, 29 Jul 2009 05:47:10 +0100 2649247 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2626308&cid=t_106061_180_f&fid=38616&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifelearningtoday%2Fwlyf%2F%7E3%2FqcLXjjF2yU4%2F photo credit: Ana_Cotta I love the song, “Maybe God is Trying to Tell You Somethin’,'” from the Color Purple soundtrack.  It is a very passionate and moving gospel song. Every once in a while, something happens in my life where I can hear a message from God. It’s not always earth shattering, but even when it is a simple message it is still a delightful intermission from my usual mundane thought patterns. Hopefully this story will spark your interest to  adjust the dial on your “tuner” in order to hear the messages you may be receiving right now. I got a cold recently. The worst part was that it made me so tired. So tired, in fact, that I had to take a nap nearly each day. I never take naps so this means my body was really tired. After 5 days I though... Life Learning Today blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2626308 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:56:49 +0100 2626308 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2594590&cid=t_106061_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2F0RNfm9kOctA%2Fa-diabetes-friendly-trip.php Last week, David, Leah and I were down in Orlando for the Children With Diabetes Friends for Life conference.  We met a lot of really great people!  One of our fabulous bloggers, Sara, Kerri (and her husband, Chris) from Six Until Me., and Mandy, who bless her heart, is one of the sweetest people in the "O.C.".  We had so much fun with them and all of the wonderful families... (Source: Diabetes Daily) Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2594590 Mon, 13 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0100 2594590 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2591648&cid=t_106061_134_f&fid=36012&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FBattleDiabetes%2F%7E3%2FSYrycXRUWGw%2F Have you ever heard of a dog that could sense when blood sugar is dropping to an unsafe level? They are called Hypoglycemic Alert Dogs and they are changing lives. The March 2008 issue of Diabetes Forecast, the consumer magazine of the American Diabetes Association (ADA), features an article about assistance dogs that are trained to sense episodes of human hypoglycemia, or low blood glucose, and sound a life-saving alert. According to the article, these dogs seem to sense a dangerous drop in blood glucose before it begins, allowing the people they work with to prevent an episode altogether. Some dogs seem to sense high blood glucose, too. Mark Ruefenacht is a forensic scientist with type 1 diabetes who started a hypoglycemia alert dog training center in California and has been placing trai... Battle Diabetes Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2591648 Fri, 10 Jul 2009 12:37:43 +0100 2591648 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2523063&cid=t_106061_106_f&fid=36682&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSutureForALiving%2F%7E3%2FJo5pavJhPsU%2Fwalking.html I call my dog Rusty my personal trainer.  We walk every day regardless of the weather.  He was preceded by other dogs (Columbo, Girlfriend, and Ladybug) who got me into this walking habit.  It has kept my weight down over the years without having to go to the gym. I was reminded of this earlier this week by an article in my local paper.  This link needs a subscription, this one does not.  I especially love this part of the article as it highlights a community in Arkansas where “volunteer” dog walking has become a weekly club event.  Kudos to them! And there's another way to dabble in dog time. In many communities, volunteers for local Humane Society shelters gather to give the friskiest residents a workout. In Arkansas, the Humane Society of Independence... Suture for a Living blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2523063 Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:01:00 +0100 2523063 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2442517&cid=t_106061_135_f&fid=35274&url=http%3A%2F%2Facidrefluxweb.com%2F%3Fp%3D3519 Last night  I made way down to my meeting. The one you know that requires you to go up at least one flight of stairs, one step at a time. The theme for the night was the slogan “One day at a time.” It sounds so easy. My first recollection of this slogan was the 1970s sitcom  One Day at a Time. My mother, recently divorced with us two kids around that time thought the show was kind of about us. The tv mother and ours both sported the same kind of 70s mushroom haircut along with the same colour more or less. Then at the meeting I mused out loud, if that were to be the case then which on of the kids would I have ended up to be. Would it be Valerie Bertinelli, the one who ended up on weight watchers adds hiding behind trees, or Mackenzie Phillips, and well we all know what happened to he... acidrefluxweb.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2442517 Thu, 21 May 2009 15:55:58 +0100 2442517 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2405868&cid=t_106061_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F05%2Fmoluscs-with-slime-on-side.html This also tied in with "Works for Me Wednesdays" the "Frugal" Edition.I actually stole this from "Scribbit" who borrowed it from "Plum Pudding."Because I am forced to try these things out in advance to iron out any kinks, I can tell you that it works better with thicker skinned hot dogs and thinner pasta, [the link does specify thin pasta but I rarely read labels] anything that cooks more quickly. Whilst normally you would keep pasta a a rolling boil, for this a simmer and then a dunk in iced water works much better.Now if that isn't the cheapest frugal children's meal around the bazaars at the moment I'll eat my hat, just please don't ask me to eat either the pasta or the hot dogs.To finish it off a quick Bechamel or cheese sauce would be ideal, especially with a splash of blue food colou... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2405868 Wed, 13 May 2009 06:59:00 +0100 2405868 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2349471&cid=t_106061_135_f&fid=35274&url=http%3A%2F%2Facidrefluxweb.com%2F%3Fp%3D3376 What not to feed you pets. That’s what I’ve been thinking about all weekend. I came home from Winnipeg exhausted, yet happy to be home. I didn’t feel like I could quite relax until Saturday night had passed. This was because I had two ocassions to speak. Saturday night a friend had a birthday party and had asked me to speak. Originally I was to be in Winnipeg, but changed my ticket to be in town for the evening, arrving the day before. All week as I was drifting off I was trying to figure out what I would say. How much do I sanitize it, or do I just go full throttle myself. I was going to bring Hildy with me and say, “Finally a bitch comes a long that get more attention than…..” However, when I came back to get my dogs, the dog sitter had done exactly wh... acidrefluxweb.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2349471 Mon, 20 Apr 2009 14:33:51 +0100 2349471 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2349560&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2009%2F04%2Fcancer-treatment-for-dogs.html The dog next door is doing chemo. The dog, a sweet black lab-mix who looks a lot like Connie, has a tumor near her eye. Her owners did a lot of research and decided to put her on an oral chemo drug. So far, she's doing really well. A few weeks ago, I overheard part of a conversation about chemotherapy, and I assumed that the two women were discussing the treatment a friend or relative was getting. It was only after eavesdropping for a good five minutes that I realized they were discussing a dog's chemo schedule!Dogs do get cancer, of course. In the old days, when my father was practicing veterinary medicine, the only treatment for cancer in dogs was surgery--you cut out the tumor and hoped for the best. A headline in the Science Daily caught my eye: Veterina... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2349560 Sat, 18 Apr 2009 18:49:07 +0100 2349560 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2349561&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2009%2F04%2Fthe-cuddle-cure.html The March issue of Ladies' Home Journal has a story about a San Diego woman, Nancy Gordon, who found an unusual cure for her chronic pain--she cuddles up with one of her Mexican hairless dogs, and the heat of the dog's skin eases the pain. Since I'm a dog lover, I thought that was pretty great, and for a brief moment I considered shaving Connie ... According to the article, the dogs, a Mexican hairless breed called Xolo (show-low), have a 3,000 year history of soothing arthritic pain. The body temperature of these dogs is 102 degrees, the same as any dog, but because they have little or no hair, their skin is toasty warm. Gordon suffers from neck and back pain after a car accident. She got the first of her two dogs in 1999 and named her Toaster. She later bred... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2349561 Sat, 18 Apr 2009 17:18:06 +0100 2349561 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2349563&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2009%2F04%2Fflowering-quince-.html It's a gorgeous day today, and Connie and I went for a walk to Ravenna Park, the first real walk he's had this week. When is a walk not a "real" walk, you might be wondering?Well, on days when I'm too tired to walk the beast, I just take him out front and play catch with him down the sidewalk. I took this photo of flowering quince looking out over the edge of the ravine, which is about 60 or 70 feet below the level of the street. Now that the trees are blooming, my nose runs like a faucet whenever I'm outside, and I need to get out my neti pot and start using it every day. See also: It's a Neti Pot Kind of Day @ Jeanne Sather 2009.  (Source: The Assertive Cancer Patient) The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2349563 Thu, 16 Apr 2009 20:49:46 +0100 2349563 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2311836&cid=t_106061_106_f&fid=36682&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSutureForALiving%2F%7E3%2FjNVE9glnen0%2Fdog-bite-injuries-children-most-at-risk.html If you have spent much time here at my blog, you know I love my dogs.  I have sewn up many wounds / lacerations due to dog bites, so I have no illusions that dogs won’t bite.  They do and children are the ones most at risk of those injuries.  That fact has been reinforced in a recently published study in the March issue of the journal Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery.  The study also indicates that most of these injuries occur in warmer weather, so it is time to become more watchful. Of the 84 children with dog-bite injuries who were treated by the researchers in the study, the average age was 6 years (ranged from 10 months to 19 years).  Approximately half of the injured children were 4 years old or younger. The family pet was to blame in 27% of the cases... Suture for a Living blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2311836 Mon, 06 Apr 2009 11:01:00 +0100 2311836 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2324221&cid=t_106061_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F04%2Fdog-therapy.html My older son is a boy of few words. He rarely fills the world with idle chatter but it takes all sorts when it comes to the autism spectrum. He has been known to wax lyrical on occasions, usually on the subject of Pokemon and more recently Spore, but other than that his silence is particular and dogged. That said, there is a particular dog, his own, who has an undue influence upon him. The influence of Thatcher the dog is all too apparent as we walk the ten minute trip to his first puppy training lesson. As we trot down the road I prepare my son for the hour of tuition, what to expect. I know what to expect because I have already spent six weeks attending the very same class with Thatcher and my daughter. Now it is his turn, my sons. I worry that the trainer uses more words in the average ... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2324221 Thu, 02 Apr 2009 06:54:00 +0100 2324221 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2306915&cid=t_106061_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blisstree.com%2Fhealthbolt%2Fbeware-the-four-legged-tripwire%2F image from sxc.hu If you’ve have the misfortune of tripping over the cat or dog lately, you are not alone. Seems that these ‘four-legged tripwires’ are the cause of over 86,000 visits to the emergency room each year.  That’s 240 people a day being treated for pet-related injuries. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report found that while cats are involved in some of the fall, the main culprit is man’s best friend, the dog. Seems that nearly 88% of all injuries were dog-related and females sustained injuries twice as often as males. No mention, though, of how the pets fared in each of these accidents… (Source: Healthbolt) Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2306915 Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:44:52 +0100 2306915 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2299221&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2009%2F03%2Fthursday-sun-breaks-showers-later.html I think "sun breaks," is a particularly Seattle term. ... But it's also pretty obvious, right? We get a lot of sun breaks here, with rain and clouds the rest of the time. And if you have a dog, you quickly learn to get the dear beastie out for walks during the sun breaks. Having said that, it's past noon, and Connie and I haven't gotten out for a walk yet. I've been feeling fairly low energy since I started on the gemcitabine, and my counts are still low, and I haven't been walking Connie as much as usual. That's not good for him, since he's still young (3) and a pretty energetic dog. He behaves better when he's getting lots of exercise. Lately, I've been trying to multi-task a bit more, which means taking Connie for a w... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2299221 Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:13:22 +0100 2299221 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2287228&cid=t_106061_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F03%2F24%2Fwant-to-cut-your-risk-of-death%2F We often talk about happiness and well-being on the blog, or how to reduce your depression or cope with anxiety here. But none of that’s going to do you a whole lot of good if your life is cut short by making daily unhealthy food choices. So while I don’t usually write about general health topics here, occasionally a piece of research rises to the level of demanding our attention. And the research published yesterday linking red meat to a higher risk of death over the study’s 10 year period of time is just such research. The study of more than 500,000 middle-aged and elderly (aged 50 to 71) Americans found that those who consumed about four ounces of red meat a day (the equivalent of about a small hamburger) were more than 30 percent more likely to die during the 10 year... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2287228 Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:56:31 +0100 2287228 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2260377&cid=t_106061_135_f&fid=35274&url=http%3A%2F%2Facidrefluxweb.com%2F%3Fp%3D3158 I keep all my pills in nice and organized in a seven day am and pm box. One side has as fuchsia-ish colour, and the other a blue-y violet colour. The darker colour is opposite to the darker side of my old pill box, meaning it has switched from am to pm, or vice versa. I can’t remember at this moment, and that’s probably what the problem is. When my brain went on autopilot this morning I grabbed the pill box and took the evening pills. Not a big deal as all the HIV meds are almost the same, but the happy pills are another story. This afternoon I found myself getting really irritated about small things. Not to mention feeling really tired. That was probably the accidental am dose of the Lithium, and missed the Ciprolex. When dealing with booking some travel I found my patience level beco... acidrefluxweb.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2260377 Wed, 11 Mar 2009 21:27:07 +0100 2260377 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2222378&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2009%2F02%2Fan-early-morning-surprise-more-snow.html I woke up this morning to find two inches of fluffy snow on the fence outside my windows. And on all the trees and shrubs, including my lilac, which I planted right outside the dining room window, hoping to smell that lovely fragrance through open windows when it blooms. Well, blooming lilacs are months away, and this snow is a big surprise. I need to get outside to see what it's done to my crocuses, which ARE blooming. And maybe take a few photos. The sky is clear, bright bright blue, and the sunlight is bouncing off all that snow ... I had promised Connie the Wonder Dog a long walk today. I haven't walked him since Sunday, because it's been raining and dark the past several days, so today is the day. I'll bundle up warmly and take my camera. ... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2222378 Thu, 26 Feb 2009 17:56:16 +0100 2222378 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2259906&cid=t_106061_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fpet-therapy-may-be-the-greatest-therapy-of-all%2F Today, I thought we might take a break from ourselves and take a moment to enjoy the remarkable world of pet therapy. They answer to many names such as service dogs, therapy dogs and guide dogs. In my digging around through books, periodicals and the Internet, I find that pets are indeed, more than poor dumb beasts. They’re not dumb at all. I’ve always known it, especially when I’m hauling in a load of groceries into my front door. There are my two critters greeting me, jumping, barking and generally beside themselves over the simple fact that I’m home.  I usually look at them and say in a short-of breath way, “So, why don’t you two pick up a bag and help me?” Poor dumb beasts that sleep in a warm bed, eat home-cooked pet food they didn’t have to prepare and certainly didn... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2259906 Tue, 24 Feb 2009 21:44:43 +0100 2259906 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2211655&cid=t_106061_106_f&fid=36682&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSutureForALiving%2F%7E3%2FuRxd0QcwzR8%2Fshout-outs_24.html TBTAM is this week's host of Grand Rounds.  Her edition features food and medicine.  Read this edition here.   Welcome to Grand Rounds Vol 5, no 23!  We've got a wonderful pot luck menu of great posts from around the medical blogosphere, so sit right down and dig in!     The fourth edition of Change of Shift (Vol 3, No 16) for 2009 is hosted by Amanda (This Crazy Miracle Called Life)!   It’s the “Valentine” edition. I hope you will check it out (photo credit).  You can find the schedule and the COS archives at Emergiblog.    Medicine for the Outdoors has a nice post on “Naturally Occurring Toxins.” The best classification of natural toxins involves dividing the groups of toxin-containing organisms into poisonous a... Suture for a Living blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2211655 Tue, 24 Feb 2009 12:46:11 +0100 2211655 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2200497&cid=t_106061_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F02%2F18%2Fall-i-really-need-to-know-i-learned-on-my-paper-route%2F David Munger’s (over at Cognitive Daily) entry about smells that began with a note about his paper route jogged a memory of my own, but not one about smells (people on my route didn’t really smell, they’ll be happy to learn). Rather, a paper route story. Paper routes used to be done by kids in the local neighborhood, back when newspapers were in their heyday and even a little state like Delaware could boast that its largest metropolitan newspaper (The Wilmington News Journal) had both a morning and evening edition. I delivered the evening edition, every day after school, and in the mornings on the weekends, while my middle brother delivered the morning edition. I was pretty good at it and won a company award one year for outstanding delivery. Delivering newspapers in a ne... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2200497 Wed, 18 Feb 2009 20:59:48 +0100 2200497 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2172885&cid=t_106061_109_f&fid=34730&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychiatrist-blog.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F02%2Fjust-as-i-was-thinking-about-you.html I think I have ESP. Last week, I was thinking about a patient I hadn't seen in a couple of months, and he called, just as I was thinking about him. It's happened before with this patient. Today, I was walking to my car (where I'd left my cell phone, unsubmergered), and I started to think about a patient I haven't seen or thought about in some time. I've been treating her for over ten years, and issues of age and health have made it hard for her to get in to see me. It's been a year, maybe more, but every once in a while, she surfaces. So I'm thinking about her, wondering how she is, and I get to my car and there's a voicemail from her. Sort of eerie. I have ESP.What I don't understand is the whole ShrinkRap with Bacon thing on our sidebar. I guess Roy did this. Why does anyone want bacon ... Shrink Rap blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2172885 Mon, 09 Feb 2009 20:51:00 +0100 2172885 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2128912&cid=t_106061_133_f&fid=35098&url=http%3A%2F%2Fclub166.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F01%2Fhope-they-can-believe-in.html photo credit-jetheriotcreative commons licenseSo Tuesday afternoon (the day of Obama's inauguration) Sweet Pea comes home from school and says to Liz,"I know this is a little bit mean, but I wish my daddy were Barack Obama."As Liz relates this to me when I come home, I imagine that my daughter is finally getting some racial identity with the African-American side of her heritage. Perhaps she'll identify more with her black dolls, and less with the blond Barbie?Liz continues that she responded,"Oh really, sweety? Why do you say that?""Because then we could have a puppy.""Couldn't you just wish that your dad wasn't allergic to dogs?"photo credit-lepiaf.geocreative commons licenseLast year, Buddy Boy suggested we could get a dog, and "Don't worry, Dad. You could live in the basement." (The un... Club 166 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2128912 Sat, 24 Jan 2009 05:07:00 +0100 2128912 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2096044&cid=t_106061_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F01%2Fdaily-constitutionals.html We walk as a family, together with our dog, Thatcher. We meet and greet neighbours, old ones and new unfamiliar ones. People are friendly and make complimentary remarks about our puppy. My children offer pertinent pieces of information in return:- that he has fur, even between his toes, that the end of his tail looks like a teasel, that his poop is bigger than cat poop because he is much bigger than most cats, that the tough pads on his feet mean that he doesn’t need to wear shoes, that he smells really bad, but not as bad as the first day he arrived. Each little nugget of information is of equal worth. People seem both amused and bemused in return.By the time we dawdle back home, these cumulative exchanges appear to have percolated their psyche.“Mom?”“Yes dear?”“I like Fatcher... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2096044 Sun, 11 Jan 2009 07:55:00 +0100 2096044 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2094706&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2009%2F01%2Fcast-of-characters.html New to my blog? Here's the Cast of Characters to help you make sense of it all. JeanneThe author of this blog. An outspoken advocate for the cancer patient’s point of view.   “Even after 10 years living with cancer, I still don’t see myself as a sick person. It’s just not part of who I am.” Read more: About Jeanne Car Guy  Car Guy came into my life because of the Red Corvair. No one should own a car like this 1964 classic without someone like Car Guy for a friend … but that was only the beginning. Read more: Car Guy  Older Son The first glimpse I had of Older Son was a snapshot of him taken when he was just a few months old and living in an orphanage in Kumamoto, Japan. “Do you want this baby?” I was asked. Read ... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2094706 Sat, 10 Jan 2009 21:30:16 +0100 2094706 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2078722&cid=t_106061_109_f&fid=34730&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychiatrist-blog.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F01%2Fi-need-non-human-help.html In "Creature Comforts" (the NYTimes mag, of course), Rebecca Skloot discusses all forms of comfort and service animals. There's a difference, and yup, Ducks make the cut. There are miniature guide horses for the blind, monkeys for quadriplegics, and an assistance parrot for a man with bipolar disorder who is subject to tempter outbursts.----------What qualifies as a service animal? .... Can any species be eligible? There are two categories of animals that help people. “Therapy animals” (also known as “comfort animals”) have been used for decades in hospitals and homes for the elderly or disabled. Their job is essentially to be themselves — to let humans pet and play with them, which calms people, lowers their blood pressure and makes them feel better. There are also therapy horse... Shrink Rap blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2078722 Mon, 05 Jan 2009 01:46:00 +0100 2078722 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2078248&cid=t_106061_133_f&fid=35129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwhitterer-autism.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F01%2Fwhats-in-name.html A very long time ago I gave my little brother a cheap and nasty teddy bear. It was very small and constructed in what I can only describe as squares and rectangles. It might have just passed muster if it had been biscuit coloured but unfortunately it was a pure shade of dun. Fortunately I gave it with love and from the very few pennies in my possession. For some unaccountable reason, he and the bear bonded. He being a youthful kind of a little brother, he concocted a lengthy, convoluted name for a bear no larger than his pudgy little hand. Jumbo Jet Teabags, as he was affectionately known for short, and my brother, were quite inseparable for many a long year. Jumbo Jet Teabags full name, is lost on my weakened memory card, but I believe he had a great number of them, one for each letter ... Whitterer on Autism blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2078248 Sun, 04 Jan 2009 07:35:00 +0100 2078248 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2074608&cid=t_106061_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FBHgi1GlYe0U%2F Dogs have truly proven they are man’s best friend. A study led by a nurse Kathie Cole, at the University of California Los Angeles Medical Center used dogs to interact with heart patients. The study conducted by Kathie, used therapeutic dogs. There were 76 patients with an average age of 57, that had been hospitalized with heart failure. Patients received a visit from a volunteer with a dog, just a volunteer or no visit at all; physiological responses were measured before, during and after the visits. The findings were that anxiety dropped 24%, in the patients that were visited by a volunteer with a dog.  There was only a 10% drop in patients when visited by a volunteer and those with no visits stayed the same. When your body is under stress, levels of (epinephrine), which is a... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2074608 Fri, 02 Jan 2009 16:43:56 +0100 2074608 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2073754&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2009%2F01%2Fconnies-closeup.html If you just looked at my post A Quiet New Year's Day, you may be wondering what Constant, AKA Connie the Wonder Dog, has in his mouth.That would be TWO dog toys, a ring frisbee and a squeaky ball. He loves that ball so much that he occasionally tries to eat it, and he's on his fourth or fifth identical ball. No, I don't LET him eat the ball, and I take it away from him if it starts to fall to pieces. More on cancer and dogs: Dogs  @ Jeanne Sather 2008. (Source: The Assertive Cancer Patient) The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2073754 Fri, 02 Jan 2009 01:11:11 +0100 2073754 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2073755&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2009%2F01%2Fa-quiet-new-years-day.html Well, my New Year's Eve was quiet too--Car Guy and I watched a couple of movies and ate dinner in front of the TV ... He fell asleep and started snoring before midnight, but woke up in time to walk me out to the car at the end of the evening.I've decided that this is funny. Otherwise, it would feel lonely, and I don't want to feel lonely on a holiday, especially this one, which is always tough for me. (The movies were "Pride and Prejudice" for me, and "Indiana Jones" for him. Car Guy and I are very democratic.)I slept till 11 a.m. and am now drinking my coffee and contemplating the gray skies and drippy rain that are so much more typical of Seattle winters than the recent snow and cold.  Just turned on the HappyLight, my "sunshine supplemen... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2073755 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 19:20:08 +0100 2073755 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2074081&cid=t_106061_135_f&fid=35274&url=http%3A%2F%2Facidrefluxweb.com%2F%3Fp%3D2114 “You need to have something outside of all of this.” “Like what? “A life Jimmy” “You know, it’s the shit that happens while you wait for moments that never come.” The Wire, Season Three, Episode 8. While I was watching this episode this line jumped out and screamed at me. I thought it just couldn’t be said any better. It’s all about making those moments happen while we can. I realize that I have ideas, and things I want to do, and I think they could be quite successful. As Oprah says, when she can shut her trap about how fat she is. It’s like being the biggest queen, and saying I’m gay. We all know. I digress. as Oprah says, I had a “Aha” moment. I think I’ve been creating blocks because I’m sc... acidrefluxweb.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2074081 Wed, 31 Dec 2008 15:20:52 +0100 2074081 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2068012&cid=t_106061_106_f&fid=36682&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSutureForALiving%2F%7E3%2F494806251%2Fmerry-christmas-to-you.html You know I love my dog Rusty.   I used to make Columbo, Girlfriend, and Ladybug home-made dog biscuits for Christmas.  I didn’t make any last year when it was just Rusty.  I decided I needed to make him some this year.  I found this recipe years ago at a site that doesn’t seem to be active anymore.  It can be found here though.  My dog  loves them, as do the neighbors’ dogs.  I’m sharing the recipe with you.   If your toddler wants to sample them, it’ll be okay.  My husband likes them too.     Fido’s Fabulous People Biscuits 1/4 cup hot water                            &... Suture for a Living blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2068012 Thu, 25 Dec 2008 12:10:01 +0100 2068012 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2065277&cid=t_106061_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2008%2F12%2F24%2Fstressed-out-get-a-pet%2F Feeling stressed out? New research suggests the benefit of getting a pet for college students: Students who chose to live with at least one dog, one cat, or a combination of the two were less likely to report feeling lonely and depressed; something they directly attributed to their beloved pet. While previous research has shown that pets help many specific populations (such as people with a chronic illness, senior citizens, and people who live alone), this is the first study to show this effect is also present in young adults. Freshmen and sophomores, especially, are at risk for loneliness and stress, as they are just establishing their college social network. And while online social networks help the transition for many, face-to-face friends are often just as important to help a per... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2065277 Wed, 24 Dec 2008 16:37:13 +0100 2065277 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2052653&cid=t_106061_87_f&fid=34595&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnhsblogdoc.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F12%2Fsniffer-dogs-and-breast-cancer.html The new Health Care ProfessionalA highly intelligent lady, who I have known for years, came in today and said she was worried about her right breast, as her dog had started repeatedly sniffing it. "I've heard that dogs can smell cancer" she said.I smiled. Not heard that one before. Examining her, there was a diffuse lumpy area in the right breast. Clinically I think it will be benign but you can never be certain, so off to the breast clinic for further investigation. She should just about be seen before Christmas.Then I put "can dogs smell cancer" into Google and came up with this. Dear me, I had no idea. Lots and lots of references. Many of them are the loony-tunes "my doctor did not spot it, but the dog was right..." sort of heart sink nonsense. But there have been genuine trials as well... NHS Blog Doctor blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2052653 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 13:15:00 +0100 2052653 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2035501&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2008%2F12%2Fsnow.html I drove home from Car Guy's house late last night in swirling snow. Connie was in the car with me and he kept barking, not sure what all that white stuff was. I woke up this morning to about 2 inches of pristine snow. Can't wait to get outside for a walk--I'm going to call Car Guy and see if he is up for a walk in the park with Connie. I have no idea where my gloves are--when did I last need them? We get very little snow in Seattle. Afternoon update: I just looked out the window of my room and saw a hummingbird hovering near the holly!There are two kinds of hummingbirds common to Seattle, one migrates in the winter, the other, obviously, doesn't. This little bird was green on the body--I need to pull out my bird book and see if I can identify it. @ J... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2035501 Sun, 14 Dec 2008 17:58:39 +0100 2035501 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2021672&cid=t_106061_134_f&fid=36049&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FDiabetesNotes%2F%7E3%2FwtPCXRlmbF0%2F var iamInit = function() {try{initIamServingHandler(420,628,329028,"http://cdn.pis.picapp.com/IamProd/Resources/Css/css2.css")}catch(ex){}}() It’s something we don’t talk about often here, but our pets can get diabetes just like us. As someone that gives myself multiple shots a day, I can’t imagine having to do that with my dog as well. But it does happen. As this article states, many pet owners are diabetics themselves and understand about the disease when it comes to treating their pet. I think I would probably have much more sympathy for a dog that has diabetes now that I’m diabetic too, wouldn’t you? The same article says, “If left untreated (diabetes) can cause our four-legged friends to lose weight, vomit, become weak and lethargic, or even go b... Diabetes Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2021672 Sun, 07 Dec 2008 16:18:54 +0100 2021672 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2005503&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2008%2F12%2Fa-new-puppy.html No, she's not mine, although I wish she were ...This adorable puppy was a gift to a friend of mine who recently lost his mother to cancer. Personally, I think she is the perfect gift to help him heal in his grief. There's just something about dogs. Maybe it's all that unconditional love. Maybe it's because you can hang out with a dog and not have to TALK (although I talk to Connie all the time, I confess).Whatever the reason, many, if not most, of my friends living with cancer have dogs.  More about dogs:Constant the Wonder Dog, World Traveler Car Dog! Want a Service Dog of Your Very Own? Constant's Baby Photo Happiness Is ... Two Big Dogs and Miles of Beach Amorette's new puppy:Poodle in a 'People' Skirt @ Jeanne Sather 2008.  (Source: The... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2005503 Tue, 02 Dec 2008 22:08:00 +0100 2005503 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1984817&cid=t_106061_109_f&fid=34730&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychiatrist-blog.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F11%2Fbecause-i-said-so.html I recently linked to an article on the Well Blog about a child with Asperger's Syndrome in NYC. The boy's parents were at odds with their housing co-op about the boy's need for an emotional support dog in the no-pets-allowed complex.Roy said that's what docs get to do: determine medical necessity.Commenters on our blog and the Well blog were mixed, and I really don't have enough facts to feel comfortable commenting on the situation.It did get me thinking about the concept of Medical Necessity and before I start rambling, let me say that I didn't see the term "medical necessity" on anything associated with the kid and dog case. What I read simply said that doctors thought a dog would help the boy, that the co-op agreed to let him have a small dog with many stipulations attached, and the fed... Shrink Rap blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1984817 Mon, 24 Nov 2008 00:34:00 +0100 1984817 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1980494&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2008%2F11%2Fconstant-the-wonder-dog-world-traveler.html Yesterday we spent hours zigzagging back and forth over the four corners area, where the states of Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona come together, searching for what was really nothing more than a line or two on a map--the Four Corners Monument.The monument marks the spot where the four states intersect. Of all the 50 states, this is the only intersection of four states. Armed with the information that the park was 35 miles southwest of Cortez, Colorado, where we had spent the night, we set off, only to overshoot the turnoff (I swear there wasn't a sign) and end up way south. We then sailed through the town of Shiprock and 30 miles past into New Mexico--or was it Arizona? Anyway, despite asking directions three times, it took us several hours and several frayed tempe... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1980494 Sat, 22 Nov 2008 04:39:23 +0100 1980494 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1963926&cid=t_106061_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthbolt.net%2F2008%2F11%2F15%2Ffinding-a-hypoallergenic-dog-might-just-be-barack-obamas-mission-impossible%2F President-elect Obama made many promises during the election campaign, but to his daughters, the biggest was probably that if he’s elected they would get a dog. A tough call, given that his eldest daughter, Malia, apparently has a ‘dog allergy’. In his first press conference, Obama seemed to think that all would be okay if they found a ‘hypoallergenic dog’. Sounds like a great plan. But according to medical experts, it’s not all that feasible. In fact, soon after the press conference, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology  (AAAAI) issued a statement saying “There is no truly ‘hypoallergenic’ dog.” According to the Academy, there are many misconceptions regarding dog allergies, chief among them being ‘that people are allergic to a dog’s hair, a... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1963926 Sat, 15 Nov 2008 21:42:58 +0100 1963926 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1964136&cid=t_106061_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2FhN6u6ILSPzI%2F Two recent stories in the New York Daily News highlight the struggles of families to provide for their autistic children. In Staten Island, a police detective got caught up in the subprime mortgage crisis when she bought a fixer-upper with the intention of renovating and quickly reselling it, to pay for therapy for her 3-year-old autistic son. The fixer-upper was to be auctioned off today and the detective, Regine DeBellis, is in danger of losing her own house, too. She says: “I didn’t get into this because I wanted to shop at Saks - we wanted to get Matthew in a program that treats kids with his kind of autism how not to hurt themselves,.” In Manhattan, federal prosecutors have accused the owners of an East Side building for discriminating against 11-year-old Aaron Schei... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1964136 Sat, 15 Nov 2008 02:00:18 +0100 1964136 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1952600&cid=t_106061_106_f&fid=36682&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSutureForALiving%2F%7E3%2F449497671%2Fshout-outs_11.html First, it’s Veteran’s Day here in the United States, so if you haven’t seen this story of how GruntDoc’s blog helped out (via one of his readers)  veteran SSGT Robert Toland, then you need to check this post out. Watch the video here, and enjoy the sight of regular people pitching in to help other people.  Beautiful. Backstory here and here.   I caught this story on NPR this morning as I drove in to work.  It is  'American Widow Project' Born From Grief” by Glorida Hillard.  I hope you will check it out.  These young women (and their families) need to be remembered today too. Taryn Davis was just 21 years old when her husband was killed in Iraq. As an young widow, she felt bereft, and very alone. She channeled her grief into the "Amer... Suture for a Living blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1952600 Tue, 11 Nov 2008 12:46:52 +0100 1952600 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1943658&cid=t_106061_106_f&fid=36682&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSutureForALiving%2F%7E3%2F445394064%2Frepairing-rustys-dog-bed.html My dog Rusty likes to “scratch” or dig at his bed before he lays down. The fabric eventually gave and developed a hole. The egg crate mattress inside is still in good condition. I tried to find a replacement cover in the local pet stores, but had no success. So I bought some “lambskin” type fabric and sewed it to the upper part of the cover. This simple fix keep the functioning zipper in place and “resurfaced” the cover. Here’s a picture of the happy dog. (Source: Suture for a Living) Suture for a Living blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1943658 Fri, 07 Nov 2008 11:23:00 +0100 1943658 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1920871&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2008%2F10%2Fpoodle-in-a-people-skirt.html OK, I'll admit that it took me a couple of minutes to get this.  The photo is of Amorette's new poodle puppy, Chloe, wearing a "People Skirt." Amorette has more creativity in the little finger on her left hand than most of us have in our entire bodies. That's all I'm going to say, except enjoy this moment of silliness in the midst of whatever your day is throwing at you. Love this puppy!@ Jeanne Sather 2008.  (Source: The Assertive Cancer Patient) The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1920871 Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:10:39 +0100 1920871 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1921192&cid=t_106061_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F436271309%2F The drugmaker may not attract many shareholders with its animal health business, but it found an interesting way to promote one of its products - the Canex All Wormer for Dogs. In this arresting ad, the impression is to leave you guessing whether that poor little boy is feeding Fido or, in reality, all those worms creeping around inside the pooch. “Who do you take care of” asks the ad. To us, however, it appears the worm may skip the bowl of dog chow and go straight for the little boy. Hat tip to AdFreak (Source: Pharmalot) Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1921192 Thu, 30 Oct 2008 05:38:43 +0100 1921192 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1908838&cid=t_106061_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2FZgMXwYL-iAY%2F I’ve been teaching some of my Latin students how to scan Latin poetry—-how to figure out the meter by identifying long and short syllables, elisions of vowels, when there’s a pause for a breath (caesura). One student commented that he likes scanning more than translating and it is a different sort of way of dealing with a language, looking at the sounds and syllables of words and not so much their meanings. I talk about scanning as attending to the music of the poetry, to its sounds, more than to its sense. I’ve often noted that Charlie’s always had an affinity for music. That’s the impetus behind efforts to teach him to play the piano and the cello. While Charlie’s long struggled to learn to read words, he figured out how to read notes and the bas... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1908838 Mon, 27 Oct 2008 07:06:14 +0100 1908838 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1908965&cid=t_106061_106_f&fid=36682&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSutureForALiving%2F%7E3%2F431635434%2Fhumane-society-calendar-debute.html Our local humane society (Pulaski County Humane Society) began publishing a Day Planner in 2005. It has turned into a very good fund raiser for them. This past Thursday night was the debute of the 2009 seen here. I ordered several that first year to give as Christmas presents. They were such a big hit the first year, I've had to keep doing it.  You can read my post from last year on these day planners here. As per the Humane Society’s website: The planner makes an excellent holiday or birthday gift and will be available at outlets soon to be listed below for ONLY $25.00! This year there are over 200 heartwarming photos of pets and their owners in a highly stylized, sturdily bound planning calendar. Help the Humane Society of Pulaski County and get yours in time for Christmas and... Suture for a Living blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1908965 Sat, 25 Oct 2008 11:21:00 +0100 1908965 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1892348&cid=t_106061_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F425646928%2F In yesterday's interview with Michael Posner, he says: - "There is a growing number of studies that show the importance of interaction between our genes and each of our environments. Epigenetics is going to help us understand that question better, but let me share a very interesting piece of research from my lab where we found an unusual interaction between genetics and parenting." - "Good parenting, as measured by different research-based scales, has been shown to build good effortful control which, as we saw earlier, is so important. Now, what we found is that some specific genes reduced, even eliminated, the influence of the quality of parenting. In other words, some children's development really depends on how their parents bring them up, whereas others do not - or do to... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1892348 Sun, 19 Oct 2008 17:57:03 +0100 1892348 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1862634&cid=t_106061_136_f&fid=35303&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.assertivepatient.com%2F2008%2F10%2Famorette-has-a-new-puppy.html The Assertive Cancer Patient, Happy News Division (just in case you thought this blog was nothing but criticism of Komen ...): Amorette, bento artist, fellow cancer blogger, and all-around amazing person, has a new puppy to love, a white standard poodle named Chloe. Pop over to Amorette's blog to see photos of Chloe: Introducing Chloe Amorette writes that she is looking for an American charity that would provide assistance-dog training to Chloe either free or at a very low cost. I'm going to hook her up with the Delta Society, which I think might be able to help. My best guess is that a qualified dog trainer might take on this project for free. If you have any suggestions, e-mail me (jeanne.sather@gmail.com) or go to Amorette's blog and leave her a... The Assertive Cancer Patient blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1862634 Wed, 08 Oct 2008 19:09:54 +0100 1862634 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1825831&cid=t_106061_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2FUg-wgE4Wthw%2F I signed Charlie up for a special needs kids bowling league every Wednesday. It’s at the same bowling alley we’ve been going to all summer and with many of the same kids. Yesterday Charlie bowled a few, poked a finger in some ketchup on a plate of French fries, and sat with his head against his elbows. “No bowling,” he told me, and let that be known in a louder way. He sat, I bowled a round (why not), and after I’d told him he only had to bowl two more times and we’d head for the car, Charlie stood up, picked up a neon orange ball, and rolled it with such force that nine pins came down. He barely pushed the ball the second time so the spare remained, and, as promised, it was to the car. I’d sensed something edgy in the set of Charlie’s featur... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1825831 Thu, 25 Sep 2008 07:10:15 +0100 1825831 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1825786&cid=t_106061_107_f&fid=35041&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2Fscienceblogs%2Fdigitalbio%2F%7E3%2F401114918%2Fidentifying_irresponsible_dog.php Every fall, we had to confront it. People would let their dogs run around on the field in the morning and by the time soccer practice started, the field would be full of deadly doo. There's nothing that hurts soccer practice more than a soccer ball or shoes that went through a pile of dog poo. That's why I'm so exciting to see this new application for DNA testing. That's right. Kids will be able to play soccer without worry and dog owners will be held responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Read the rest of this post... | Read the comments on this post... (Source: Discovering Biology in a Digital World) Discovering Biology in a Digital World blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1825786 Tue, 23 Sep 2008 21:10:49 +0100 1825786