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 'hope'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 01:53:49 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5181895&cid=t_106831_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F09%2F02%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-september-2-2011%2F It starts at a young age. Schools encourage it. Our families help define it. We begin our lives with the labels they give us like big brother, baby sister, only child. And as we get older, they just get more serious. Sometimes the way we’re perceived such as the “good one,” the “bad one,” the “troubled one,” the “drama queen,” inevitably follow us throughout the rest of our life. Sometimes these seemingly harmless labels take on a life of their own. If we don’t achieve our own sense of self, they begin to define who we are. And we grasp on tight. These lyrics from the Barenaked Ladies song What a Good Boy reminds me of the pressures they can have on us: “When I was born they looked at me and said What a good boy, what a sma... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5181895 Fri, 02 Sep 2011 12:04:52 +0100 5181895 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5130995&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=37846&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhealthinfoispower.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F08%2F14%2Fovarian-cancer-awareness-through-social-media-technology-are-you-ready%2F The median age of a women at the time of initial ovarian cancer diagnosis is 63.  How important is social media technology to ovarian cancer awareness? Let us know what you think. The median age of a women at the time of initial ovarian cancer diagnosis is 63. In light of that fact, we are [...] (Source: Libby's H*O*P*E*) Libby's H*O*P*E* blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5130995 Sun, 14 Aug 2011 23:08:09 +0100 5130995 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5125925&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F08%2Fi-cant-remember-way-home.html The lights have gone off in the hotel. I barely make it out of the elevator before the power shuts off. "Isn't there a generator?" I wonder. I stumble down the hall. Fear starts to grip my stomach with his iron bands, and my hands are shaking a little. I can't remember which door is ours. I just want to get into my own space, a space with windows and a little light. Anxiety clouds my judgment further and I can't seem to recall whether we're on the left or the right side of the hall. Praying doesn't even occur to me. How I wish I could change that! Remember to tap into divine power and love in times like these. Crises. I don't handle them very well.I go up the hall in the direction I think our room is, and keep trying doors. Key in, and there's no flashing light to tell me if it worked or n... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5125925 Fri, 12 Aug 2011 17:17:00 +0100 5125925 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5036486&cid=t_106831_133_f&fid=35095&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAutismsEdges%2F%7E3%2FGtRh1qZyrxI%2Fsummmmertime-and-livin-is.html (Source: Autism's Edges) Autism's Edges blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5036486 Sun, 17 Jul 2011 16:58:00 +0100 5036486 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4992699&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1711 This is my column in July’s EM News.  Have a restful day! http://journals.lww.com/em-news/Fulltext/2011/07000/Second_Opinion__A_Rest_for_the_Heart.10.aspx We travel to Hilton Head, SC, every spring for an ‘end of school-year’ vacation. It is a tradition that started several years ago; one which our family treasures. We plan months ahead, when we arrange lodging. Then, as the date draws closer we have to restrain ourselves from jumping up and down at odd, inappropriate times. The beach calls to us in an inexplicable way. We live in a beautiful county, surrounded by mountains and lakes. It is, in itself, a worthy destination, perfect for biking, hiking, fishing and/or kayaking. But when May rolls around, our eyes turn to the east, and we long for the sand and sea. It is on... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4992699 Fri, 01 Jul 2011 22:24:09 +0100 4992699 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4975876&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1706 Trained as an emergency physician, my entire career has been spent pondering, searching for, often finding and managing the worst possible eventualities in my patients.  Chest pain is, first and foremost, a heart attack or pulmonary embolus.  Abdominal pain is appendicitis, a ruptured tubal pregnancy.  Fever with headache is meningitis.  And neck pain from a car wreck is an unstable cervical spine fracture. So it has taken enormous effort to ‘dial-down’ my response to my wife’s recent cancer, treatment and recovery.  I drive her to distraction with ‘how are you feeling?’  I pester her endlessly to eat.  I have imagined every bump or cough a metastasis.  I have envisioned all the worst outcomes imaginable.  I endlessly ‘catastrophize,’ as o... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4975876 Tue, 28 Jun 2011 21:01:30 +0100 4975876 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4968841&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cancerlifeandme.com%2F2011%2F06%2Fstream-of-consciousness%2F Surgery. What a word. Spooks the hell out of me. I really, really, really wish I didn’t have such vivid memories of my past surgical recoveries. The smell of alcohol, iodine, blood, and saline. The way every whisper of a breath feels like a sledgehammer to the chest and ribs. Feeling the searing, white hot, blast Continue reading Stream of consciousness (Source: Cancer, life, and me) Cancer, life, and me blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4968841 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 18:21:07 +0100 4968841 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4952863&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1683 Thank you all for your prayers for my dear wife.  I haven’t update lately, so here’s the latest. We went to MUSC in Charleston a couple of weeks ago for follow up, some 12 weeks after completion of chemotherapy and radiation.  Jan’s exam looked very good.  Nothing going on in her tongue or throat except some generalized edema.  Healthy looking cells, unlike the scary white ones we saw back in December. ‘Hallelujah, thine the Glory,’ as the song goes! She also had a PET scan.  It took a couple of weeks for the final reading and review by the tumor board at MUSC.  But the results were pretty good.  The left side of her neck was clear (that’s where the original malignant nodes were found).  The right side of her neck was clear except for one lymph n... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4952863 Sat, 18 Jun 2011 17:39:28 +0100 4952863 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4934706&cid=t_106831_134_f&fid=35179&url=http%3A%2F%2Fscottsdiabetes.com%2F2011%2F06%2Fyou-can-do-this-2%2F Here’s a quick video for the You Can Do This project.  Thank you Kim, and thank you everyone who is watching and/or contribution. You Can Do This. And for the record, I am so ready to shave my “faux beard”. 15 days left until I can clean it up. You Can Do This! is a post from: Scott's Diabetes (Source: Scott's Diabetes Blog) Scott's Diabetes Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4934706 Thu, 16 Jun 2011 00:46:15 +0100 4934706 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893469&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1653 Dear friends, Jan is doing wonderfully, and her recovery from both her cancer therapy, and her pulmonary embolus, has been nothing short of miraculous.  I am so thankful for God’s grace and mercy, and for the skill of those whose treatment of my wife honored the One who called them into medicine.  (Whether they knew it or not!) She has been eating better every day, working out, mowing the lawn and organizing our lives like normal.  I’m very proud of the courage, fortitude, love and patience she has shown throughout her ordeal.   And of the faithfulness in trial that our amazing children displayed. Monday June 6 is the day of her follow-up PET scan and pharyngoscopy at MUSC.  Please pray that her cancer is completely gone.  Her scan is early, I think at 7 am, and her exam... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893469 Sat, 04 Jun 2011 02:17:19 +0100 4893469 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4872108&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1628 A friend recently asked how to explain the death and resurrection of Jesus to his young son in a non-judgmental, values-neutral way.  I have to admit, while a noble thought it’s very difficult.  Jesus himself said he came  ‘not to bring peace, but a sword,’  and that he would cause divisions even in households.  It’s tough to explain it without embracing the story or discounting it. But since so much of faith requires metaphorical thinking, I have an idea.  Let’s think, first, about sin.  Modern society gets very upset about that word.  And probably, the church (temporal) has done a rotten job of explaining it.  Sin isn’t just cheating, lying, stealing, adultery, drunkenness, murder, blasphemy, etc.  Sin isn’t ‘making us guilty for ... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4872108 Thu, 26 May 2011 17:36:12 +0100 4872108 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4821099&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=37846&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhealthinfoispower.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F05%2F13%2Flibby%25e2%2580%2599s-hope-women%25e2%2580%2599s-oncology-research-dialogue-launch-new-%25e2%2580%259cword-of-hope%25e2%2584%25a2%25e2%2580%259d-ovarian-cancer-educational-podcast-series%2F WORD OF HOPE™ Ovarian Cancer Podcast Now Available Through New Website, iTunes, YouTube, and Other Online Sources. A new ovarian cancer educational podcast series, entitled “WORD of HOPE™,” was launched during Women’s Health Awareness Week through a collaborative initiative of Libby’s H*O*P*E*™ (LH) and Women’s Oncology Research & Dialogue (WORD). The WORD of HOPE™ Ovarian [...] (Source: Libby's H*O*P*E*) Libby's H*O*P*E* blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4821099 Fri, 13 May 2011 18:03:11 +0100 4821099 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4803448&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F05%2Ftruth-feel-praise.html Psalms is not a book I've always found inspiring. However, dissection - of anything, animal, plant, insect and word - happens to be my strong suit. When I heard this explanation of the lyrical form of the Psalms, I immediately started reading them.Face the truth of your situation. God never tells us to be perfect, to be nice and  pretend.Feel everything in the moment. I am the worst possible example of this phrase, numbing out instead. Search your heart, have the courage to feel and to be exposed.Praise God for Who He really is. All the powers of evil can't hold a candle to God's greatness.This is a practice for everyday Christian living, especially for those of us under emotional or spiritual fire. Face the truth, feel, then praise. Each point is key - without facing the truth we don... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4803448 Tue, 10 May 2011 09:50:00 +0100 4803448 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4775499&cid=t_106831_129_f&fid=27216&url=http%3A%2F%2Flifewithadhd.com%2Fadhd-research%2Fadhd-new-research-gives-families-hope-and-more-treatment-choices.php The results from ADHD new research has been giving kids and parents new hope. What was originally seen as a behavior problem is now viewed as a medical condition with real symptoms. As a result, a variety of treatments have been studied so that parents and physicians can better address children’s needs. The new studies for ADHD have looked at this disorder and determined multiple treatment modalities that can give a better overall result. While some parents believe that stimulants and other drugs are the only solution, other parents are using biofeedback, a good diet and natural remedies with great success. The reason prescription medications are so well known is that they are advertised in the media and promoted more often by the medical establishment. One of the alternatives tha... Life With ADHD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4775499 Sun, 01 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4775499 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4768005&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1552 Those of you who read my blog know that it has been a tough winter.  My wife Jan has gone through a rough patch with cancer, as well as a pulmonary embolus.  Well, we’re on the sunny side of things and she’s doing wonderfully.  So, last night we went on our first, official evening date in several months.  In honor of that, I’ve pulled an old column/post out of the archives.  I hope you enjoy! The point is this:  we all have to learn to take our romance and intimacy where and when we can;  and always with a bit of levity. Edwin’s hand brushed against Jan’s as he reached for the shopping cart. She smiled, and tossed her purse inside. As they walked into the store, her mind raced with a million thoughts. ‘Does he feel the same desire as I do? Does he find me ... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4768005 Fri, 29 Apr 2011 16:33:53 +0100 4768005 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4758924&cid=t_106831_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2FyYhYZfeVzvA%2Finterview-hope-warshaw-on-her-free-eatsmart-apps.php We recently spoke with Hope Warshaw about her new, free EatSmart app for iPhone and Android. The app is published by Quantia Communications, a Diabetes Daily Sponsor.Q: What is the EatSmart app all about?We developed the EatSmart app specifically for people with prediabetes and type 2 in mind. Developing EatSmart was a collaboration. I brought the diabetes nutrition expertise and Quantia Communications, a Boston-based healthcare technology company, brought its expertise in delivering important medical information through the web and mobile devices. Quantia has taken the technology it has developed and used for years to deliver clinical content to healthcare providers on QuantiaMD.com and has now applied it to people with specific health concerns, such as diabetes.EatSmart consists of ... Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4758924 Wed, 27 Apr 2011 15:39:15 +0100 4758924 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4758761&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1531 A young woman saw me on my shift today.  In the process of being evaluated for a work related injury, her physician ordered some x-rays.  One of them showed an incidental finding of a lung nodule.  She was told she would need a CT scan to rule out a malignancy.  But, her workman’s compensation doctor wouldn’t order it, since it was not work related.  And she did not have a personal physician.  Anxious, she came to the ER. Long and short; the chest CT showed a benign, calcified granuloma.  No cancer!  She stood up, breathed a deep sigh of relief…then hugged me! Now, I do lots of things at work.  Close lacerations, evaluate sick children, treat heart attacks, negotiate with drug seekers, encourage alcoholics, and on and on.  But when I get a hug just for saying, &... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4758761 Wed, 27 Apr 2011 14:49:52 +0100 4758761 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4723854&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1510 I am sitting in our kitchen, writing my update as Jan plays Solitaire, and the kids distract themselves with television, music or games. We’re all a bit tired, because we just returned from a short trip to Myrtle Beach. After our difficult winter, Jan and I felt that the family needed some distraction. We are a family that travels whenever we can, and a trip was a kind of return to normalcy. Even though it was cold and windy on the coast, we had fun; as we always do when we’re together. I haven’t written about Jan’s progress for a while. Many of you follow us on Facebook and you know that she’s doing well. In early March, she completed her chemotherapy and radiation therapy. It seemed as if the last dose of chemo was the worst, and the radiation effects grew m... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4723854 Sun, 17 Apr 2011 00:32:37 +0100 4723854 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4664192&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1482 Dear readers, Many of you have wonderful connections  in the medical world.  Please read this and respond to the young lady, or to me,  if you have any suggestions. And please lift her up in your prayers! Edwin From: Sarah Lindsey <sarah.lindsey.nc@gmail.com> Date: Wed, 23 Mar 2011 20:51:11 -0400 To: Sarah Lindsey<sarah.lindsey.nc@gmail.com>; Sumit Gupta<sgupta@icrsaga.com>; <sumitandsarah@gmail.com> Subject: An URGENT medical request – please read Dear Family and Friends, I am writing out of hope, faith, but also out of desperation. I need your help so please take the time to carefully read and immediately act on this email as time is certainly of the essence. As many of you are aware, I was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, Adrenocortical Carcinoma (A... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4664192 Thu, 31 Mar 2011 20:51:12 +0100 4664192 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4615382&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cancerlifeandme.com%2F2011%2F03%2Fdream-your-way-to-paradise%2F Okay, another thought to ponder… This one’s not based on science (that I know of), just my own rambling. When you dream, your sense of time can be a lot different than your sense of time when you are awake. For instance, you might dream for what seems like a day, only to wake up and realize Continue reading Dream your way to paradise (Source: Cancer, life, and me) Cancer, life, and me blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4615382 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 20:00:45 +0100 4615382 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4615376&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F03%2Flaying-it-down.html Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. (John 15:13)So here I am, embarking on a weekend to tend to those friends needing healing and help, embarking on a weekend full of work to prepare for dissertation proposal defense, and I am thinking about these big things. The obvious, yes - laying down the dissertation proposal for the sake of these friends who need us today. The less obvious - going silent on Twitter and Facebook so I am not the one throwing logs on the fire of conflict.Pets. Children. They hustle around your legs just for the contact. They grip your hand just for surety. They pull at your arms to dissuade you from the task at hand. And for what purpose? Love. And what greater love can one have, but to lay down one's life for friends? Not like... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4615376 Sat, 19 Mar 2011 09:24:00 +0100 4615376 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4610822&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1465 Dear friends and family, Every day, Jan is doing a little better.  Eating, drinking…slow but sure.  And she can talk now, though her voice is weak.  What a joy it has been to hear her voice!  She does laundry, she sits up all day with the kids.  (Who listen to her faltering voice better than they do to my strong one!) But today a minor setback.  She’s really weak and passed out doing laundry.  So, it’s off to the cancer center for a blood count.  I believe she’s anemic from her last chemotherapy; but then, this is all new territory for me. Of course, I’m out of town at a meeting today.  So our dear friend Lynn is taking her to the office. Please pray for Jan to have strength, and to be encouraged.  She’s in the final stretch, we just have a lit... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4610822 Fri, 18 Mar 2011 12:49:17 +0100 4610822 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4610961&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F03%2Ftake-hold-of-something-real.html The spring mud has sprung. And with it, rainboots, and shovels, and lots of laundry. But the grins on those snowpant, mitten-less kiddos as they come in from their mud pies and explorations...As an adult, have you forgotten how to play? Do you remember the squish of mud between your toes, the sucking sounds as your boot is swallowed in the wallow and you come up bootless and stranded on one leg like a pink flamingo?Do you recall the joy of the wheels sputtering along with the flying mud painting your back a caked brown? The glory of the driveway emerging from white and a whole new vista of play to be discovered all over again in spring?Revelry. We lose it as adults. And so often twist it to mean something different...drinking, long late nights with friends, things that leave us spent and d... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4610961 Fri, 18 Mar 2011 09:52:00 +0100 4610961 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4592642&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=37846&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhealthinfoispower.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F03%2F15%2F2011-nccn-conference-new-treatment-options-lead-to-steady-progress-against-ovarian-cancer%2F Recommendations stemming from recent clinical trials highlight notable updates to the NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines™) for Ovarian Cancer at the National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN®) 16th Annual Conference. Although finding effective screening tools remains a priority, new treatment options for women with ovarian cancer, such as the ones outlined in the [...] (Source: Libby's H*O*P*E*) Libby's H*O*P*E* blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4592642 Wed, 16 Mar 2011 01:20:30 +0100 4592642 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4580908&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1460 So again, thanks for all of your prayers and concern!  Thanks to those who have encouraged us, who have fed us amply, who have just spoken kind words or told their own story!  I have held so many of you in my own prayers. Tomorrow, it will be two weeks since Jan’s last radiation, and 11 days since her last chemotherapy.  She is better every day, and looks great despite her obvious fatigue.  She continues to be plagued by thick secretions, although to my eye they seem a little less frequent.  But then, I’m not the one trying to cough that stuff up! I wondered tonight, is there a special prayer for phlegm?  Is there a patron saint of secretions?  Bless her heart, it’s miserable.  And it causes such  nausea, as if the doctor were tickling your uvula with a tongue de... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4580908 Mon, 14 Mar 2011 02:42:37 +0100 4580908 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4565911&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1458 Thank you, first of all, for your prayers and love.  Jan’s last radiation therapy was last Monday and her last chemotherapy was last  Thursday.  While those are happy, hopeful things, she still feels miserable.  She is having copious secretions from her throat, vomits periodically and is extremely weak as yet.  However, she did get up today and do our bills…which probably made her want to faint dead away! One of her chemo nurses said that after this therapy, the subsequent two weeks can still be pretty tough.  It appears she was absolutely right.  I hate that Jan is still nauseated and fatigued, but I believe that better days are coming.  It’s a horrible feeling, this sense of being powerless to stop the  misery of one we love.  As a ‘fixer,’ it&#821... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4565911 Wed, 09 Mar 2011 02:15:30 +0100 4565911 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4545264&cid=t_106831_165_f&fid=37959&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhealthskills.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F03%2F04%2Ffriday-in-christchurch%2F Despite the devastation, there are some wonderful sights in Christchurch right now.  This one (above) made me smile today. And this one was taken in Nelson after we had turned back to return to Christchurch last week.  Cheerful things, sunflowers, and glorious colour on a rather gloomy and very grim day. Filed under: Coping strategies, Relaxation, Resilience/Health, Wellness Tagged: christchurch, coping, flowers, hope, Nelson, photographs, Resilience, wellbeing (Source: HealthSkills Weblog) HealthSkills Weblog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4545264 Thu, 03 Mar 2011 23:05:25 +0100 4545264 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4540726&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39212&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbahtocancer.com%2F2011%2F03%2Fmore-cake%2F The Big News broke while I was away training in Edinburgh. When I got home, at about 8pm, I was met by Joy, who had baked a surprise for me. (The cupcakes are stuck to a glass chopping board with icing. She’s good, but not quite good enough to make cakes hover in the very air. Yet.) I was thrilled. I took another picture: and then we sat down to dinner. When I went back to the living room to get the cakes for dessert, I found two things: Hope, Joy’s dog, fast asleep on the floor with her head resting on half of a cupcake case. And this. Fortunately for Hope, we were all in such a good mood that we laughed until we hurt. (Joy made us go out of the room to do it, so Hope wouldn’t know we thought it was funny. She takes dog ownership very seriously.) I ate the ‘C&#8... Bah! to cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4540726 Thu, 03 Mar 2011 07:13:36 +0100 4540726 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4532219&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1455 Here’s my column in the March Emergency Medicine News. ‘Everyone is a drug seeker. Why does everyone want to be on disability? I’m so tired of lies. Great, another lousy shift. I wonder who will die tonight? I’m so sick of suffering. I’m so weary of misery and loss. I hope this never happens to my family. I’ll probably get sued. Being sued nearly drove me crazy. This job never gets easier, only harder. I have to find something else to do; I can’t go on this way. I think I’m going crazy. I don’t have any more compassion. People hate me now.’ These are only a few of the wonderful thoughts that float through the minds of emergency physicians these days. Sure, not every physician has them. But I know our specialty, I know our colleag... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4532219 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 02:52:57 +0100 4532219 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4527740&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1453 This is my column in today’s Greenville News. Sickness can show the depth of a couple’s love When I met my wife at a college Halloween Party, we were 19 years old. She was a black-haired, blue eyed beuaty dressed as a mime. I was dressed as a doctor. (I was a big pre-med nerd.). After the party, our group of friends spent all of our free-time together, in and around our dorm at Marshall University. Several months later, after a day when the school was closed by snow and we went sledding, a fire began to flicker between us. Soon we went on our first date. We were poor, skinny college kids who loved to laugh and eat cheap pizza. We went to free movies on campus and met one another between classes. I still see her, bouncing across the grass, a red hat and cape on a cold day, wal... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4527740 Sun, 27 Feb 2011 22:42:03 +0100 4527740 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4545161&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cancerlifeandme.com%2F2011%2F02%2Fspine-clinic%2F I visited the UCD Spine Clinic today to discuss a few things. First, I received a neurological exam (reflexes tested, numbness/sharpness tested, basic strength tests). Good news: nervous system seems intact and responsive. No sign of any new nerve damage. I brought up my concerns, stating that I think my kyphosis might be progressing and causing organ Continue reading Spine Clinic (Source: Cancer, life, and me) Cancer, life, and me blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4545161 Fri, 18 Feb 2011 01:10:34 +0100 4545161 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4545163&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cancerlifeandme.com%2F2011%2F02%2Fi-wont-quit%2F My brother and I were having a chat yesterday. He told me he heard a song while on the road and it made him choke up, thinking of me. “What was the song?” I asked. It was “My Body” by Young The Giant. Curious, I hunted down a copy of the song, and instantly realized why it had Continue reading I won’t quit! (Source: Cancer, life, and me) Cancer, life, and me blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4545163 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 17:43:46 +0100 4545163 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4470514&cid=t_106831_135_f&fid=35247&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmyjourneywithaids.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F02%2F12%2Fhope-as-verb-noun-andor-feeling%2F Everything I am feeling in this moment is in the context of having watched, via television and Twitter, the roller-coaster of events in Egypt these past 18 days, of having just listened to the Feb. 6 (2011) edition of Tapestry from CBC Radio with Mary Hines, and of having made the seemingly Herculean effort to [...] (Source: My journey with AIDS) My journey with AIDS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4470514 Sat, 12 Feb 2011 21:03:43 +0100 4470514 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4470532&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Falcoholism-affects-the-entire-family-2%2F …Not Just the AlcoholicHow many people are involved in the life of any one alcoholic? Family, friends, employer, co-workers… It is important to remember that all these people are affected by alcoholism-not just the alcoholic. Many of them spend a lot of time and energy trying to "fix" the alcoholic: covering up for them, punishing them, taking responsibility for them.For over 56 years, Al-Anon Family Groups (including Alateen for younger members) has been providing help and hope to families and friends of alcoholics. In non-professional, mutual support meetings, members share their own experience, strength, and hope to help one another to recover from the effects of alcoholism. Living with alcoholism has been described as living on a merry-go-round, where each family memb... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4470532 Sat, 12 Feb 2011 15:25:00 +0100 4470532 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4459958&cid=t_106831_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fmind-over-matter-in-medicine%2F2011.02.10 [Recently] I came upon a Jan 24 op-ed, “A Fighting Spirit Won’t Change Your Life” by Richard Sloan, Ph.D., of Columbia University’s psychiatry department. Somehow I’d missed this worthwhile piece on the sometimes-trendy notion of mind-over-matter in healing and medicine. Sloan opens with aftermath of the Tucson shootings: …Representative Giffords’s husband describes her as a “fighter,” and no doubt she is one. Whether her recovery has anything to do with a fighting spirit, however, is another matter entirely. He jumps quickly through a history of the mind cure movement in America: From Phineas Quimby’s concept of illness as a product of mistaken beliefs — to William James and “New Thought” ideas — to Norman Vincent Peale’s 1952 “... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4459958 Thu, 10 Feb 2011 22:00:02 +0100 4459958 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4460147&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F02%2Ffly-away.html Love can be defined as the free gift that voluntarily cancels the debt in order to free the debtor to become what he might be if he experiences the joy of restoration. ~Dan AllenderI am the harvest frozen under winter's white blanket.He is the bright speck in the darkness.I am the girl with her hobo stick swinging, ready for a new adventure.He is the silent companion in the twilight of this season,waiting to shine light when the darkness grows impenetrable.Together we're driving back into town from the windblown prairie.Armed with new dreams.Uncovering fresh hope carved with ancient letters.Lifted by the updraft of healingWinged with prayerHeavenward.Oh I swear this town gets smaller everyday,and I'm waitin for my chance. I'm gonna break away.I'm so sick and tired of being told what's good... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4460147 Thu, 10 Feb 2011 20:36:00 +0100 4460147 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4459973&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1448 Hello friends and family, near and far! On a positive note, yesterday was the half-way point in her radiation therapy.  From here, it’s down hill until she finishes the first week of March. However, today my dear wife Jan is receiving her second dose of chemotherapy.  I am thankful for all of the care she is receiving.   But I hate the nausea, the aches, the weakness that it causes her.  Like  most spouses of patients undergoing trial, I feel powerless. Fortunately, brothers and sisters, we are not powerless, neither  Jan, nor I, nor you who are my fellow believers. God is with us, and the weaker we are the stronger He is. “And he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in m... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4459973 Thu, 10 Feb 2011 15:32:54 +0100 4459973 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4450301&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1444 Here’s my column in Sunday’s Greenville News.  I hope you enjoy it! Kitchen provide a refuge when life get’s stormy I have long loved kitchens. The kitchen of my childhood home was cozy, with a small bar where I ate my breakfast and where my sleepy brain came around in preparation for school, to the background of the radio built into the wall. My parents passed through hurriedly, kissing and feeding me as they entered their own worlds until evening. I well remember the layout of my grandmother’s kitchens. Both were small, with dark wood and thin tables set against a window. From those kitchens emanated wonderful smells, laughter and love. In summer they could swelter, but in winter! In winter they were havens of warmth. Their ovens heated the room, and warm buttere... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4450301 Tue, 08 Feb 2011 19:02:21 +0100 4450301 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4419147&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1442 Dear friends, First, let me praise God for all his blessings and mercy in our difficult time!  Since the first day when we were stunned by Jan’s cancer diagnosis, we have had hopeful news that her condition is treatable.  We are thankful for that.  With each and every test along the way, when I anticipated more bad news, the results were better than I hoped, and I am thankful to the Almighty for His grace and healing power. Thank you for your intercession for us, and for the encouragement you daily have sent our way!  Your prayers have helped to result in the progress Jan has made, I’m certain of that.  And the words (and food) of many have lifted us up. For example, Jan was initially terrified of the radiation therapy frame, which pressed tightly on her face and locked he... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4419147 Tue, 01 Feb 2011 02:04:46 +0100 4419147 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4419148&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1439 It’s Probably Nothing! The lessons of bad news, fear, love and hope. http://journals.lww.com/em-news/blog/BreakingNews/pages/post.aspx?PostID=25 It’s probably nothing. That’s what we heard over and over. My wife, Jan, had a swollen lymph node on the left side of her neck, just under the angle of her mandible. That’s what I told myself when she first complained of it a few months ago. A tender, swollen lymph node after all of us had colds, sore throats, and fever. Probably nothing. In November, it was more painful. (Painful node; probably nothing, right?) So it was off to the ENT. A cautious, competent surgeon, he said it was probably nothing, but it needed to be evaluated. The CT scan showed an enlarged node. Nothing else was visible. No other adenopathy. We figure... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4419148 Tue, 01 Feb 2011 01:43:49 +0100 4419148 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4382770&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1425 You might like this interview I recently did with Christian Devotions.  Thanks to Scott McClausey, who graciously invited me and let me speak about my faith, my family, my career and writing! http://christiandevotions.us/2011/01/18/christian-devotions-speak-up-with-dr-edwin-leap/ (Source: edwinleap.com) edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4382770 Fri, 21 Jan 2011 03:50:16 +0100 4382770 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4377575&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1420 This is my article in the Baptist Courier today.  We underestimate our prayers. http://www.baptistcourier.com/4836.article Here’s the text: Prayer is a fire, not a flower Never in my life have I understood, so personally, what it means to pray, and have others pray for, my family. You see, my wife Jan was recently diagnosed with a cancer in her throat. What began as a swollen lymph node, which was ‘probably nothing,’ became a terrifying diagnosis and the beginning of a journey in which we still find ourselves. From the first doctor’s visit, to the CT scans, biopsies, surgery and other evaluations, we have learned to lean on prayer. We have cried out to God for courage, for healing, for good news, for direction, for wise physicians, for miracles, for our children, ... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4377575 Thu, 20 Jan 2011 14:17:14 +0100 4377575 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4377615&cid=t_106831_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F01%2F14%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-january-14-2011%2F The first month of a new year is often filled with fear, anticipation and sometimes frustration. There’s a whole lot of things we didn’t yet accomplish that we often feel pressured to do this year (lose weight, make more money, find our true love). And there’s often a sense of grief associated with that as we slowly say good-bye to 2010 and reflect on what we’re proud of what what we regret. Speaking of regrets, a lot of you had very different views about this statement told to me by a relative: “You haven’t really lived, if you haven’t had regrets.” (You can read their opinions here and contribute your own on our Facebook page.) If you feel regretful and frustrated about last year, there are still lots of things you can do to remedy that. In... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4377615 Fri, 14 Jan 2011 12:38:52 +0100 4377615 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4349544&cid=t_106831_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F01%2F14%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-january-14-2010%2F The first month of a new year is often filled with fear, anticipation and sometimes frustration. There’s a whole lot of things we didn’t yet accomplish that we often feel pressured to do this year (lose weight, make more money, find our true love). And there’s often a sense of grief associated with that as we slowly say good-bye to 2010 and reflect on what we’re proud of what what we regret. Speaking of regrets, a lot of you had very different views about this statement told to me by a relative: “You haven’t really lived, if you haven’t had regrets.” (You can read their opinions here and contribute your own on our Facebook page.) If you feel regretful and frustrated about last year, there are still lots of things you can do to remedy that. In... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4349544 Fri, 14 Jan 2011 12:38:52 +0100 4349544 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4322550&cid=t_106831_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F01%2F07%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-january-7-2011%2F The first month in the new year is often filled with reflections. We reflect on the past year. We reflect on what’s still to come. We reflect on the choices we made, good and bad, and wonder what we can do better for the coming year. Do you feel the inner struggle with the past in one hand and your future on the other? Reflections often bring both excitement for the new year and a mourning for what we haven’t yet achieved. As we sink our toes into 2011, what will you wish for? What are your dreams? Whether you want to create a more healthy work/life balance, be happier, or more compassionate, these posts will help you get there. It’s 5 posts to start the ending of 2010 and the beginning of 2011 right. Enjoy! Does Work/Life Conflict Cause You Stress? Dialectical Behavior T... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4322550 Fri, 07 Jan 2011 12:48:40 +0100 4322550 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4318341&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1410 Theologically questionable; still pretty funny! Living and working in ‘Smite-ville.’ My partner, the sagacious Dr. Doug McGuff, has many words of wisdom.  I hope that he will one day collect them in a book, because generations of people will benefit. One of his pearls of wisdom is that, in emergency medicine (indeed, medicine in general), we live and work in ‘Smite-ville.’   That is, it always seems as if we care for patients who have been smitten by some terrible event, some awful disease.  His point was not that we are witnessing punishment, or even that the world is necessarily more horrible than we thought, but that we who work in emergency rooms and hospitals often see the worst of everything.  Emergency departments and hospitals are where horrors come to ... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4318341 Thu, 06 Jan 2011 15:08:51 +0100 4318341 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4305110&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fthe-promises-of-acoa-recovery%2F Image via WikipediaAdult Children of Alcoholics is an anonymous Twelve Step, Twelve Tradition program of women and men who grew up in an environment of addictiveness (alcohol or other substances) or in other-wise dysfunctional homes. Our willingness and resiliency bring us together.We share our experience, strength, and hope to validate our experience as well as give some hope to the new member. We take positive action in our lives today. By practicing the Twelve Steps, focusing on “The Solution”, and accepting a loving Higher Power of our own understanding, we find freedom from the past and a way to improve our lives.These are The Promises of ACoA RecoveryWe will discover our real identities by loving and accepting ourselves.Our self-esteem will increase as we give ourselves approval ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4305110 Mon, 03 Jan 2011 03:46:55 +0100 4305110 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4302960&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39026&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcarolinemfr.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F01%2Fin-2011-i-want.html 1. A healthy year. For the past four years I have had more than 60 doctor appointments each year. This year I would like to be healthier so I don't have to go as often. I would also like to see a year of good health for all. H1N1 flu under control, cholera in Haiti under control, good health for all.2. A political year without mudslinging and bashing. Why must politics be negative? There is no reason to say 'they were stupid' when you could say 'I can make it better'. There is no reason for negativity. No on ever did anything wrong, but someone else can improve on it. Its not like anything can be undone.3. A year of international stability. Bombings, wars, riots, and more. Why waste money on them? Why not spend the money on taking care of the people in your country instead of letting other... Caroline's Breast Cancer Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4302960 Sat, 01 Jan 2011 12:43:00 +0100 4302960 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4298636&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1402 I have long been a man who has found it difficult to sit still.  My life has been one of near constant activity.  Whether working, playing with the children, writing or just walking around the house and yard, I do not sit, I move. Until this month.  My wife’s cancer diagnosis stopped me in my tracks.  Just over three weeks into our adventure, we have a diagnosis and plan, and have great hope for a cure.  But I still find myself slower, less busy, less driven. I have dismissed unnecessary activities and projects from my already busy life.  I have resigned from some positions.  I have done less, by far, than I ordinarily would have this time of year. And I believe it has been one of the blessings that Jan said might be hidden in her diagnosis.  She has always understood rest, s... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4298636 Wed, 29 Dec 2010 22:48:14 +0100 4298636 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4281320&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1391 This is my column in last Sunday’s Greenville News.  Merry Christmas to all. Christmas brings hope and joy amidst life’s pain. (And life can really punch you in the gut!) This is one of our favorite seasons as a family. One Sunday, we put up all our decorations in a frantic three hour effort between morning and evening church activities. As usual, my wife has made the place beautiful by directing all of us the way a conductor directs the orchestra. ‘No, those lights here. No, there’s a gap in the tree. Yes, put the couch here, and the nativity set on that table.’ Her tastes are exquisite. We have done most of our shopping. (Much of it accomplished on recent kid-free date night in Greenville.) The trees are lit, the children well. We have already enjoyed Chri... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4281320 Wed, 22 Dec 2010 16:01:30 +0100 4281320 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4277939&cid=t_106831_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2FSSsb-oQ-muc%2Flittle-cat-feet.php The fog comes in on little cat feet. -- Carl Sandburg, "Fog" I've long loved Sandburg's description of a rising fog. And just as fog comes in like a cat, I find that depression often arrives like a fog. It's gradual, it turns all colors into shades of gray, and it comes to distort not only sight and sound, as the fog does, but all the other senses as well. I often struggle with depression over the winter months. Today, I noticed what may be the signs of an oncoming episode - crankiness over meaningless things, a disinclination to socialize, and a sense of sadness that's not related to anything in particular. I also noticed today, however, that I'm better off than I usually am at this time of the year. Today we held an annual work lunch that's partly holiday party but mostly getting-t... Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4277939 Wed, 22 Dec 2010 02:21:10 +0100 4277939 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4265756&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1389 I want to say, to everyone, thank you for your faithful prayers!  You have been prayer warriors for Jan and for our whole family.  I am confident that your intercession has made a difference in our lives.  How easy it would be, for post-moderns like us, to say ‘wow, that wasn’t that bad after all; and to think we were so worried!’ For all I know it was worse and has been made better; for all I know it could have been worse.  For all I know, every cancer cell in her body is now dead by the hand of God.  That’s my prayer and hope. And as Jan said, in all of this, many more terrible things could have befallen either of us or our children.  Jan says there’s a blessing here, and I agree.  There are, in fact,  many.  A blessing of empathy, of understanding,... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4265756 Fri, 17 Dec 2010 01:50:34 +0100 4265756 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4265757&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1387 ‘Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved; for you are my praise.’  Jeremiah 17:14 To all who have written to encourage us, who have prayed for us, thank you!  It means more than you know.  In the coming months we will lean on your prayers as we travel this path of treating Jan’s cancer.  While it is a terrifying thing, I have faith that God will see us through Thank you also for your stories of triumph.  They have great power to lift us up with hope. God bless all of you.  I hope to thank each of you individually, but until then, know that we are grateful. Edwin and Jan (Source: edwinleap.com) edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4265757 Wed, 15 Dec 2010 14:45:39 +0100 4265757 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4258876&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1385 Jan is doing well, up and about.  Saturday she was Christmas shopping and Sunday we were in church.  (Less than one week after major surgery). Our Sunday School class put us in chairs in the middle of the room, and spent the entire class praying for us and over us. Jan is bold and resolved; I am still a wreck of anxiety, and need to remember to pray and say scriptures in my mind. I think a career in emergency medicine makes me always imagine the worst.  Please pray for me to have faith.  ‘I believe.  Help thou my unbelief.’  And obviously, pray for Jan’s healing and the childrens’ comfort.  And for a normal CT chest/abdomen/pelvis tomorrow.  I work this evening and it’s very hard to focus now because my worry level is high. I know we are called to cast... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4258876 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 19:06:58 +0100 4258876 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4249064&cid=t_106831_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1383 So, Jan’s tonsil fragment was not malignant, so we don’t know where the primary site is.  It isn’t showing up on any of her biopsies, except in some lymph nodes on the left (all of which appear intact on the pathology report…that is, they haven’t spilled out locally). Therefore, it will be a combination of chemotherapy and radiation, then frequent follow-up for a primary site to manifest itself.  Then, possibly more surgery. I knew most of it already.  I was happy the nodes were intact, and had prayed hard for good news today.  I feel as if I received some, and I’m glad we now have a plan. Still terrified, but confident that God will provide.  We are hopeful and prayerful and believe in healing miracles.  In Psalm 103, it says it is God ‘who ... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4249064 Fri, 10 Dec 2010 19:47:50 +0100 4249064 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4249088&cid=t_106831_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F12%2F10%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-december-10-2010%2F If your goals in life are to be your best and live your best life, then what happens when mental illness takes a hold of you and everyone you hold dear? More importantly, what happens when one of the best treatments for depression is no longer being used? It’s kind of like the philosophical riddle, “If a tree falls in a forest and no one is around to hear it, does it make a sound?” If no ones using psychotherapy, is it still relevant and effective? Our World of Psychology post on psychotherapy and its decline as a treatment for depression sparked a conversation yesterday on Facebook. I was surprised to learn that many of our commenters cited things like cost, convenience and comfort level (as in not having to deal with the difficulties psychotherapy often brings about) as... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4249088 Fri, 10 Dec 2010 13:34:36 +0100 4249088 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4230297&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39212&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbahtocancer.com%2F2010%2F12%2Fmessage-in-the-snow%2F Joy was out dog walking before I went out yesterday. Which meant that I was greeted by this in the drive when I ventured forth: I wonder what all the people driving by will think? I hope it makes them smile, even if they don’t know why it’s there. (Source: Bah! to cancer) Bah! to cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4230297 Sun, 05 Dec 2010 10:15:06 +0100 4230297 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4207254&cid=t_106831_83_f&fid=34856&url=http%3A%2F%2Finsidesurgery.com%2F2010%2F11%2Fspecial-organ-transplant-program-hispanics-increases-access-income-immigrants%2F The transplant program at Northwestern Memorial Hospital has a specialized kidney program for Hispanic patients only that has doubled in size since 2006 and is now offering Hispanic patients special programs in liver transplantation as well. The program is led by Columbian-born transplant surgeon Dr. Juan Carlos Caicedo and accepts Hispanic patients who qualify medically, regardless of legal immigration status or ability to pay.Mexican immigrants Amparo Cossio and Estanislao Garcia tell their stories and Gift of Hope Hispanic outreach coordinator Raiza Mendoza discusses her work in trying to increase organ donation from the Hispanic community, which has traditionally had a very low rate of donation. (Source: Inside Surgery) Inside Surgery blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4207254 Mon, 29 Nov 2010 01:35:11 +0100 4207254 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4168158&cid=t_106831_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=4119078&cid=t_106831_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F10%2F29%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-october-29-2010%2F You know what I’ve been thinking about lately? The ghosts of Halloween’s past. The heat from a plastic Strawberry Shortcake mask, the discomfort of being herded with groups of children, the shame of begging for sweets and the sickening feeling from eating too much candy. Funny how recalling those memories actually make me happy. Watching mom dig through my winnings, tasting what seemed like every single one, made me feel comforted. And even though walking around in a costume felt silly and uncomfortable, there was something exciting about dressing up and being anonymous for one night. When did Halloween get so complicated? Yep, there are rules now about age limitations for Halloween and questions about what kids should and should not wear. But at least for me, I’d love to... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4119078 Fri, 29 Oct 2010 12:43:29 +0100 4119078 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4097938&cid=t_106831_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fjuvenile-diabetes-the-walk-for-the-cure%2F2010.10.22 This weekend is the Western Carolina Walk for the Cure for Juvenile Diabetes. Our son Seth is 13, and has been diabetic since age five. The Walk is one of our favorite yearly events. More than that, the idea of a cure is one of our favorite dreams! Seth has come a long way. He wears an insulin pump, and is now wearing a continuous glucose monitoring system. His chances of long-term complications, such as blindness or renal failure, are remarkably low compared to what kids faced in past decades. His physician, Dr. James Amrhein of the Greenville Hospital System, is outstanding. He and his outstanding nurse practitioners brought us through the shock and trials of diabetes with great compassion and understanding. He offered us that precious commodity: Hope. (more…) *This b... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4097938 Fri, 22 Oct 2010 22:00:22 +0100 4097938 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4065626&cid=t_106831_177_f&fid=38133&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTubalReversalBlog%2F%7E3%2F3TZsT6bJU5U%2Ftubal-ligation-reversal-what-other-women-want-you-to-know.html This blog article shares important advice from patients about tubal ligation reversal and the journey in the quest for conception after tubal reversal. Readers considering sterilization reversal or trying to get pregnant after tubal reversal will find this information extremely helpful while on their quest. Those with helpful insight are invited to leave advice for the benefit of others who may follow. (Source: Tubal Reversal Blog) Tubal Reversal Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4065626 Thu, 14 Oct 2010 00:41:30 +0100 4065626 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4045360&cid=t_106831_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=3999246&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39215&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcancersuucks.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F09%2Fmoving-on.html So today I went to the oncologist. What did he have to say? You're done. Cancer free. No more chemo, just this thing to block estrogen. Apparently most people on it do not develop facial hair or penises, so I am good.Now what am I going to use for an excuse for craziness? Oh, right, PTSD from having had cancer. And still have to wait 6 months for my (ahem) COSMETIC SURGERY!!!!! I am rather happy. I am kind of loving my life right now. So if I can beat cancer ( and yes, it was all me, nothing to do with medicine or anything) I can probably do anything.This calls for a party. Luckily I am house-sitting my friend's very nice home. It is set up for cooking. I think I will try my hand at a dinner party. If I blow up the kitchen, we are right by legacy place which has many nice restaurants.So fa... Cancer does suck but it is a little funny. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3999246 Fri, 24 Sep 2010 04:53:00 +0100 3999246 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3920812&cid=t_106831_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fgeorge-clooney-wins-bob-hope-humanitarian-award-daily-do-gooder%2F George Clooney got a standing ovation at the Emmy’s on Sunday night when he received the 2010 Bob Hope Humanitarian Award for his help with Hurricane Katrina and Darfur genocide victim relief. We like him even more for his modesty: “It’s embarrassing,” he said backstage. “You don’t want to be awarded for doing what you’re supposed to be doing.” Class act, that Clooney. Post from: BlissTree George Clooney Wins Bob Hope Humanitarian Award: Daily Do-Gooder (Source: Breastfeeding 1-2-3) Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3920812 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:30:40 +0100 3920812 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3845281&cid=t_106831_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FKnFPugzRQdQ%2F A bipartisan bill was introduced late last week that would give drugmakers additional incentives to develop medications for rare pediatric diseases. The Creating Hope Act would entice drugmakers by offering a ‘priority review voucher,’ which would entitle them to a six-month priority review by the FDA of another drug in exchange for developing a med aimed at treating a rare pediatric illness. In other words, a drugmaker would have a potentially big seller reviewed several months faster than would occur otherwise, since the standard FDA review time is 10 months. “We are falling woefully and inadequately short in our efforts to cure and treat rare and neglected pediatric diseases and conditions,” says Sherrod Brown, an Ohio Democrat who co-sponsored the proposal, in a... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3845281 Mon, 09 Aug 2010 14:09:07 +0100 3845281 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3740655&cid=t_106831_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F07%2F09%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-july-9-2010%2F Is it just me or is anyone else feeling the “after holiday blues?” Yep, memories of fireworks and the waft of the grill are slowly fading away. I’m already thinking about the next big thing, a vacation, a birthday, another holiday. My mind starts to dream about the end of the summer and the beginning of fall and what that will bring. I let myself get carried away into the future and then a wave of worries take over. Money, family, career, you name it. I’ve thought about it and indulged in it. Before I know it, the day is gone. How unfortunate that we let time get the best of us and how easy it is to succumb to things like stress, worrying and negative thinking. Although it’s quite normal, it would be wonderful to catch myself in the act and stop the thoughts b... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3740655 Fri, 09 Jul 2010 12:21:00 +0100 3740655 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3573891&cid=t_106831_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2FCnIyLanKxKI%2Fi-escaped-from-diabetes-jail.php We’ve read many stories of how diabetics can suffer from depression.  Has anybody researched the psychological effects that long-term diabetics suffer?  When I became a diabetic I couldn’t eat sugar.  I couldn’t skip a meal.  I had to have a strict schedule.  Up until recently, I suffered from the fear of diabetes.  I feared severely low blood sugars because I used to have seizures.  That’s now under control.  I feared high blood sugars because I didn’t want my husband to find out.  That’s now under control.  I feared missing a meal because diabetics just don’t do that.  That’s now under control.  I feared being active with my son because I didn’t know how it would affect my blood sugar.  That’s now under control.&n... Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3573891 Mon, 17 May 2010 21:00:00 +0100 3573891 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3526743&cid=t_106831_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fmost-people-arent-angry-about-healthcare-reform%2F2010.05.03 I just got back from a wonderful week in Toronto, Canada. No, I wasn’t up there to take tips on how to impose socialized medicine on an unsuspecting public, notwithstanding what some of you may incorrectly-surmise about my political leanings. Rather, I was there to attend ACP’s annual scientific meeting, during which I had the opportunity to serve as faculty for three separate scientific sessions that discussed the impact of the new Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACPA) of 2010 on internists and their patients. Several hundred ACP members attended these sessions. And guess what? Rather than encountering doctors who were angry at the new law and ACP’s support for it, I instead found an engaged and curious group of internists who are looking at health reform i... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3526743 Mon, 03 May 2010 12:00:00 +0100 3526743 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3505110&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39026&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcarolinemfr.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fstowe-weekend-of-hope.html We are off this weekend to go to the Stowe Weekend of Hope. We went last year and enjoyed it. Its one of those things that are free to cancer patients the first year and then at reduced lodging rates for additional years. I find 'free to cancer patients' somewhat as an oxymoron or something - cancer is a really high price.) Anyway, it should be a great time. They get some great speakers who focus on dealing with cancer and coping and hoping. We will arrive on Thursday night. Friday has sessions on breast cancer all day. Saturday has a mini conference on Thyroid cancer as well as sessions on colorectal cancer - so we will be busy all day. There are also all sorts of other sessions on different cancers, living with cancer, dealing with cancer, coping with cancer, as well as celebrating still... Caroline's Breast Cancer Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3505110 Mon, 26 Apr 2010 11:52:00 +0100 3505110 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3467992&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fups-and-downs.html Caleb was up for a brief time this morning. Other than that half hour, he has been laying down in bed, mostly sleeping. He continues on the IV fluids and hasn't really taken anything to drink since yesterday in the E.R. His diarrhea doesn't seem to be slowing down much yet, and it is still bloody. We did collect a sample last night and sent it off to Mayo for analysis in their superb lab there. This morning, we saw an infectious disease doctor, who is consulting the CDC and local health department for possible clues as to what this infection could be. All of the physicians continue to suspect E. coli 0-157. If that is the case, antibiotics could cause irreparable damage to Caleb, so as of now, he is not receiving any specific treatment for infection.He is at Luther Hospital, room 4129. I a... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3467992 Wed, 14 Apr 2010 15:39:00 +0100 3467992 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3449091&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=36032&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-breast-cancer%2Fmartina-navratilova-faces-a-new-opponent-in-breast-cancer%2F The tennis champ Martina Navratilova announced just recently that she was diagnosed with breast cancer. It is DCIS, ductal carcinoma in situ, which is the earliest form of the disease. Ms. Navratilova has elected to have a lumpectomy followed by several weeks of radiation, which is pretty standard treatment for DCIS. But that aside, we breast cancer survivors know all too well the shock and fear Martina has had to deal with after getting this diagnosis. So much for diet and exercise preventing breast cancer, as suggested by researchers at a conference in Spain recently. Martina Navratilova has to be one of the most fit women I know of. I truly admire all her accomplishments. Like Martina, so many women really do take care of their bodies and health in every way and still get hit with this... Life with Breast Cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3449091 Wed, 07 Apr 2010 18:31:09 +0100 3449091 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3441009&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=36032&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-breast-cancer%2Ffight-breast-cancer-with-hope%2F “Once you choose hope, anything is possible.” I found a beautiful plaque with this quote and hung it in my bathroom. Why my bathroom? Well, that is the one place that I know most of my guests will end up visiting — and actually read what is on the wall. Hope has been a theme lately in my life. My brother-in-law and I had a discussion about it recently. He is a motivator, a businessman, and a marathon triathlete. He has established orphanages in Africa and is invited to speak at leadership conferences often. I think this makes him an expert on hope. Recently he began working with a mission in downtown Toronto serving meals to homeless people. He finds that the homeless who suffer most are the ones who truly feel hopeless. It isn’t just those who are down and out that need ho... Life with Breast Cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3441009 Mon, 05 Apr 2010 18:05:16 +0100 3441009 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3366381&cid=t_106831_134_f&fid=34841&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diabetesmine.com%2F2010%2F03%2Ffrom-green-beer-to-guinness-stout-champagne-and-more-%25e2%2580%2593-tips-to-sip-it-safely.html Alcohol and diabetes. Never a more timely topic than this week. Please enjoy today’s guest post responsibly A Guest Post by Hope Warshaw, nutrition expert and CDE St Paddy’s Day 2010 is just days away. Thinking of gulps of green beer or Guinness Stout, or sips of Irish whiskey or Bailey’s? Alcohol, in its [...] (Source: Diabetes Mine) Diabetes Mine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3366381 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 13:00:08 +0100 3366381 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3363802&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39026&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcarolinemfr.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fit-is-all-in-your-head.html While wasting time online and stressing about my health yesterday (oops I mean expanding my intellectual horizons), I came across this article. Now it is long but definitely worth the read.First of all there are lots of us who have had the privilege of getting cancer. (You note I call it a privilege because anything else just wouldn't be worthy.) And the ones of us who do the best in the long run are the ones for whom outreach and hope keep us going. I can tell you when I changed from hopeless to hopeful. Shortly after finishing chemo, my husband and I went to a museum where the gift store was selling off their supply of holiday items. One of the things on sale for 90% off was the word "Hope" in big red letters, a foot tall, to hang on the wall. I splurged the whole $3 and brought it home ... Caroline's Breast Cancer Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3363802 Sun, 14 Mar 2010 12:28:00 +0100 3363802 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3363800&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fto-sleep-perchance-to-dream.html Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune, or to take arms against a sea of troubles, and by opposing end them? ...to say we end the heart-ache and the thousand natural shocks that flesh is heir to, 'tis a consummation devoutly to be wish'd. ~ Hamlet, Act III, Scene IA few weeks ago, tears sprang to my eyes as I realized that only cat tracks walked up to Echo Woods. Each chapter of suffering is eventually closed, and a new chapter opened. The winter months have brought the realities of suffering with my ill child, first the fury of adaptation to acute illness and now the slow lingering embers that occasionally spark to life and spur us to new realization of what chronic illness means in our home. I had meant to go sit by Teddy's little cairn this... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3363800 Sat, 13 Mar 2010 18:29:00 +0100 3363800 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3416283&cid=t_106831_137_f&fid=39091&url=http%3A%2F%2Falzheimmers.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fcaregiver-emotions.html Generally they run the gamut. first of all depending on what stage your family member is in, this will dictate some of the feelings. They tend to vary and have a significant range, sometimes for no apparent reason and sometimes for a very good reason. At the two opposite ends of the spectrum are HOPE and UTTER DESPAIR. They are intense and strong, it is unusual to have a mundane day. There is the psychological issue of coming to terms early on after the diagnosis, and knowing and accepting there is no cure-that can be mentally exhausting as is any grief process. Mental overload and exhaustion leads to anger, sadness, anxious feelings and sometimes physical symptoms and problems, more headaches, irritable bowel, aches and pains, back problems, neck problems, lots of signs of mental stress, ... Caregiver Survival: I Hate Alzheimer's blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3416283 Tue, 23 Feb 2010 21:58:00 +0100 3416283 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3262758&cid=t_106831_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fis-your-dna-your-destiny-in-a-life-with-chronic-pain%2F For many of us who have daily pain due to disease, we are very familiar with the role genetics play in our lives. Do we have to allow fear to enter our lives and our futures if we had close relatives, such as mothers or fathers, who suffered similar diseases? Most of us have been taught in college that your DNA is more or less set in bedrock and determines your future. I have a relative who has been obsessed for many years in finding health information on all our relatives, living and dead. At a family gathering she corners a relative or two and questions them about their health in minute detail.  I believe she does this out of sincere concern for the future health of her children and grandchildren but also out of fear for herself. Sadly, I often sense a feeling of hopelessness in her man... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3262758 Wed, 10 Feb 2010 22:10:55 +0100 3262758 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251399&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fdefining-spirituality%2F Spirituality is a word used in an abundance of contexts that means different things for different people at different times in different cultures. Although expressed through religions, art, nature and the built environment for centuries, recent expressions of spirituality have become more varied and diffuse. This is reflected in the range of language used to describe spirituality. Some of the more common themes describe it using one or more of the following elements: a sense of purpose a sense of ‘connectedness’ – to self, others, nature, ‘God’ or Other a quest for wholeness a search for hope or harmony a belief in a higher being or beings some level of transcendence, or the sense that there is more to life than the material or practical, and those activities that give meaning a... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251399 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 13:49:41 +0100 3251399 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3248712&cid=t_106831_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fcaregivers-day-off-video-benefit.html We are all praying for our brothers and sisters in Haiti, and doing all we can to help, including many types of fundraisers. I went to a Benefit Concert for "More Hope for Haiti" in Eugene, Oregon, and made the video below of Kelly Thibodeaux and Etouffee. It's rhythm and blues, southern rock, and fiddle music all blended together for an incredible sound they call "Swamp Rock." Caregivers and friends, sit back, put your feet up, and take a break with some great music. (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=3248712 Sun, 07 Feb 2010 14:45:00 +0100 3248712 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3231777&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fbeforeafter.html Baby cheeks, lilting eyebrows, dimpled fingers, drawing in breath of delight at beauty...Amy between meningitis (February, 2009) and encephalitis (October, 2009).RedemptionYou are the firstYou go beforeYou are the lastLord, You're the encoreYour name's in lights for all to seeThe starry host declare Your gloryGlory in the highestGlory in the highestGlory in the highestApart from You there is no GodLight of the worldThe Bright and Morning StarYour name will shine for all to seeYou are the oneYou are my gloryAnd no one else could ever compareTo You, LordAll the earth together declares ...Glory in the highest ... to You, LordAll the earth will sing Your praiseThe moon and stars, the sun and rainEvery nation will proclaimThat You are God and You will reignGlory, glory hallelujahGlory, glory to... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3231777 Tue, 02 Feb 2010 14:07:00 +0100 3231777 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3212566&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=37846&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhealthinfoispower.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F01%2F26%2Ftwo-combination-treatment-regimens-added-to-updated-nccn-guidelines-for-ovarian-cancer%2F The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recently updated the NCCN Guidelines for Ovarian Cancer to include two additional combination treatment regimens for women with select types of recurring ovarian cancer. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recently updated the NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines for Oncology™ for Ovarian Cancer to reflect the addition of two preferred combination [...] (Source: Libby's H*O*P*E*) Libby's H*O*P*E* blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3212566 Wed, 27 Jan 2010 04:44:49 +0100 3212566 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3201910&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fspirituality-is-universal%2F Spirituality lies at the heart of every person A small circle of men listened attentively as their counsellor at a mission in St. Paul announced their assignment. Their faces might have belonged to anyone–professionals with post-graduate degrees or homeless individuals who constantly struggle. But they were late-stage, chronic alcoholics, the kind who huddle beneath city bridges in the December cold or who simply revolve through local detox centers and shelters. All were searching for a reason to hope. A week earlier, the counsellor had asked each of them to write a prayer. Everyone managed to come up with something, except one. The counsellor asked if he had written something, and the man shook his head and stared dismally at the floor. Years on the street immersed in alcohol and g... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3201910 Sat, 23 Jan 2010 09:02:22 +0100 3201910 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3180265&cid=t_106831_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F01%2F17%2F5-ways-to-build-and-sustain-hope-an-interview-with-anthony-scioli%2F Today I have the pleasure of interviewing the coauthor of Hope in the Age of Anxiety, Anthony Scioli. I excerpted his 9 Kinds of Hopelessness and How You Can Overcome Them awhile back, and now I wanted to focus on what you can do to find and sustain hope. Dr. Scioli is professor of Clinical Psychology at Keene State College and a member of the graduate faculty at the University of Rhode Island. Question: What is the biggest thread to hope? Anthony: If I had to pick one resource it would be surrounding oneself with good “hope providers”. I view hope in terms of four dimensions: mastery or goal strivings, attachments, survival or coping skills, and spirituality. Good relationships can serve as catalyst for the development of all four of these resources. We need a powerful presenc... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3180265 Sun, 17 Jan 2010 13:32:01 +0100 3180265 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3416294&cid=t_106831_137_f&fid=39091&url=http%3A%2F%2Falzheimmers.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fmedia-research-alzheimers-breakthroughs.html Did you ever notice how many treatments and cures there are for Alzheimer's.Cell phones, video games, vitamins, statins, anti-inflamatories, high fat diets, low fat diets, all kinds of diets, lots of coffee, no coffee, more exercise, think healthy thoughts, sudoku's etc etc and on and on, we cling to each new breakthrough, and possible cure, but we never really look at the process. It is almost like finding the missing pearl in the shell. We accuse the drug companies of holding out. Not enough money for reaearch, not enough dedicated to research. The pearl must be sop basic and so obvious, it must be right under our noses. Probably not.Emerge the media. On a slow news day- big reporting, "A NEW ALZHEIMER'S BREAKTHROUGH" and so it goes, and caregivers and victims get their hopes up. They ar... Caregiver Survival: I Hate Alzheimer's blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3416294 Sat, 09 Jan 2010 17:15:00 +0100 3416294 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3129480&cid=t_106831_87_f&fid=34935&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedicine.com.my%2Fwp%2F%3Fp%3D8156 We hope it never comes to this but male doctors are always worried about female patients making claims like Doctor fondled my private parts or like in the UK, a Gynaecologist being accused of “giving the patient orgasms” In the latter case, it was apparently a “vexacious complaint” by the patient who subsequently withdrew the suit after it was made known she had sent explicit messages to the gynaecologist, including one where she asked him to christen her with his “Angus beef sausage”, and it also dawned that she had wanted to have a relationship with another doctor. In the medical line, a female chaperone is vital for you never know if there might be a misunderstanding during the examination or if you are dealing with a psycho female patient! (via a discussion ... Malaysian Medical Resources blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3129480 Tue, 29 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3129480 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3084752&cid=t_106831_87_f&fid=34935&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedicine.com.my%2Fwp%2F%3Fp%3D8122 The NST reported that an International Medical University is planned in the state of Perak. An international medical university will be built in Perak next year in collaboration with several leading universities, mainly from India, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir said yesterday. He said the project, which would involve an investment of RM7 billion to RM8 billion, had been planned for the past two years through private initiatives and the state government would have equity in it. “It’s some kind of (university) consortium. Initially, the Malaysian-based company will invest RM300 million. We hope they can start operation by next year with a minimum intake. They can have pre-university courses first,” he said at a meeting with Malaysian students in the United... Malaysian Medical Resources blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3084752 Sun, 13 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3084752 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3082581&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=37846&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhealthinfoispower.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F11%2Fmaking-a-difference-loreal-paris-honors-women-of-worth-at-special-ceremony-in-new-york-city%2F L’Oréal Paris Honors Women of Worth at Special Ceremony in New York City. Ten Women Recognized for Making a Difference in their Communities with Special Guests including Mary J. Blige, Holly Robinson Peete and Erica Hill.  Shannon Lambert Named Women of Worth National Honoree by Public Vote L’Oréal Paris’ fourth annual Women of Worth program honored [...] (Source: Libby's H*O*P*E*) Libby's H*O*P*E* blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3082581 Fri, 11 Dec 2009 18:45:02 +0100 3082581 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3045001&cid=t_106831_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FcGSkkQOn6wk%2Fcaregivers-of-spouses-with-dementia.html Adams suggested that caregivers might benefit from support groups that “normalize” the emotions that surface while watching the dementia of their loved ones worsen. They can also be taught caregiving and decision making skills and given “permission” to increase pleasurable activities and engage in self-care..... I had to put my life on hold when I decided to take reponsibilty for my mother. After six years I still find great emotional reward in caring for her. However, I meet other caregivers that are clearly suffering from the experience. My name is Bob DeMarco, I am an Alzheimer's caregiver. My mother Dorothy, now 93 years old, suffers from Alzheimer's disease. We live our life one day at a time. Today, I met someone who asked me if I would be interested in meeting for a drink.... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3045001 Mon, 30 Nov 2009 21:40:17 +0100 3045001 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3030060&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=36032&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-breast-cancer%2Fholidays-bring-hope%2F Thanksgiving is the start of the holiday season. The Thanksgiving and Christmas that I celebrated while undergoing chemotherapy were special for me because I was so glad to have the hope of beating breast cancer. This is a season of hope. It is a time to be grateful too. When we take these moments to focus on the best part of our lives and who we are, we are showing breast cancer who is the victor and that none of us are victims. Blessings to you and your family for this Thanksgiving Kathy-Ellen (Source: Life with Breast Cancer) Life with Breast Cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3030060 Wed, 25 Nov 2009 18:58:44 +0100 3030060 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3023093&cid=t_106831_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FUA9DA_vUp04%2F Climb aboard the TARDIS campers, we’re going to take a magic YouTube voyage to a strange parallel universe, very much like ours, except Barack Obama sports a dashing goatee and… Sorry, what’s that?  Not a parallel universe, you say? August of 2007, you say? Wait, that can’t be right. Because right around 20 seconds in, Barack Obama says that under his administration, there would be “no more National Security Letters to spy on citizens who are not suspected of a crime.” That’s not who we are, he says! Not what’s needed to fight terrorists, he says! And yet his Justice Department has quietly but steadfastly fought any effort to limit the use of National Security Letters. When Democratic lawmakers attempted to require that these administrative subpoena... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3023093 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 16:13:19 +0100 3023093 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2989353&cid=t_106831_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2FSfc6CxGpZMs%2Fan-invitation-and-a-request-for-world-diabetes-day.php An Invitation to My 2nd Annual WORLD DIABETES DAY Fundraiser, Fish Fry and ConcertAlright, I admit it:  If you're anything like me, just living day-to-day with diabetes is draining enough, say nothing about doling out extra to the cause. However, once a year I do donate all I can to fight for a cure, and have been donating my time this year for this event. I'm asking you from the deepest place within my heart and the recesses of my trying-to-be-optimistic-mind, to please donate a few bucks to this worthwhile cause that my family and I have been working on with all our hearts for some time now. The details: Who: YOU! What: The Ray of Hope's WORLD DIABETES DAY 2nd Annual Fundraiser When: Friday, 13th November, 2009 begins at 5pm Where: Donate online/mail AND for SE WI residents,... Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2989353 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 19:51:25 +0100 2989353 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2985000&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lrdlc.dreamhosters.com%2F2009%2F11%2Fwere-outta-there%2F We moved out of our apartment this past weekend. The week or so before that was spent packing, cleaning, and trashing/donating most things we forgot we even had. Our official last day is November 21, but just about all of our belongings are now moved. I’m now coming to you live, from my same couch, but on the floor of my bro-in-law Gary’s house. He’s going through a loan modification process on his home. In the meantime, he and his family are in an apartment. He knew of our situation, and called me recently and offered us his home, rent-free (while the bank takes it time figuring out the home loan), as a place to stay. My wife and I thought it would be a good idea, and help to catch up with our debt. Best case scenario: Gary’s loan modification goes well and he keep... Cancer, life, and me blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2985000 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 08:22:53 +0100 2985000 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2984998&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39025&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Feverythingchangesbook%2F%7E3%2FEJjOwFsQkrc%2Fcancer-prayer-quotes When  I was 27 years old, I sat on a pleather exam table and had a doctor two years older than me tell me I had cancer.  Everything in my life changed.  But, this is actually not why I called my book Everything Changes. During cancer treatment, many patients rack up hours sitting on their toilets.  I kept a big stack of reading material next to mine.  I would open to random pages in the Tao de Ching, a Chinese philosophy book written in the 6th century BC.  One day in the midst of wishing my life were different, that my body aches would subside, that I would not be single on a Saturday night sitting on the toilet with cancer – I opened to a random page in the Tao de Ching and pointed to the words ‘Everything Changes’.  And it is true.  I’m now married. I still have cancer b... Everything Changes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2984998 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 08:08:17 +0100 2984998 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2984997&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F11%2Fcomforts-of-day.html Sugar on the rim of my Fireking sugar bowl during tea time this morning."God often digs wells of joy with the spade of sorrow."Why are you striving these daysWhy are you trying to earn graceWhy are you cryingLet me lift up your faceJust don't turn awayWhy are you looking for loveWhy are you still searching as if I'm not enoughTo where will you go childTell me where will you runTo where will you runAnd I'll be by your sideWherever you fallIn the dead of nightWhenever you callAnd please don't fightThese hands that are holding youMy hands are holding youLook at these hands and my sideThey swallowed the grave on that nightWhen I drank the world's sinSo I could carry you inAnd give you lifeI want to give you lifeBlessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great merc... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2984997 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:00:00 +0100 2984997 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2977543&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F11%2Fwalking-balance-beam.html "Methotrexate is a chemotherapy drug that targets rapidly dividing cells. Which is all the placenta is, really."Really?Call me old-fashioned - I thought it was a divinely perfect organ for the nourishment of a tiny, helpless human being a few cells this side of oblivion, on it's way to all that loveliness we call baby. When I heard the obstetrician talk in this way about the baby growing inside me, something seriously snapped. I am struggling with anger, distrust, and sarcasm as I deal with our care providers in Eau Claire - from the midwives who hung me out to dry on the abortion issue, to the physicians who missed Amelia's encephalitis for weeks on end. It is such a struggle to balance acceptance, submission, a quiet spirit, humility, my belief in a cursed world and a loving Jesus...wit... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2977543 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 17:14:00 +0100 2977543 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2902942&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F10%2Fverse-1-even-though-i-walk-through.html Verse 1:Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death (Psalm 23:a)Your perfect love is casting out fear (1 John 4:18)And even when I’m caught in the middle of the storms of this life (Mark 4:35-41)I won’t turn back (John 6:66-69)I know You are near (Psalm 145:18)Pre-Chorus:And I will fear no evil (Psalm 23:4b)For my God is with me (Psalm 23:6)And if my God is with me (Psalm 46--especially verse 11)Whom then shall I fear? (Psalm 27:1)Whom then shall I fear?Chorus:Oh no, You never let go (Hebrews 13:5-6; Deuternomy 31:6; Joshua 1:1-9)Through the calm and through the storm (Isaiah 25:4)Oh no, You never let go (John 10:27-28)In every high and every low (Ecclesiastes 7:14)Oh no, You never let go (Psalm 55:22)Lord, You never let go of me (Matthew 28:20)Verse 2:And I can see a ... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2902942 Sun, 18 Oct 2009 04:59:00 +0100 2902942 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2886685&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=36032&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-breast-cancer%2Fhope-never-dies%2F We celebrated the arrival of my niece’s daughter into the world this weekend. Sister and I have 5 kids between us and the youngest is The Big Guy (my son) at eighteen. It has been eighteen years since the birth of the last baby in our family. This is pretty exciting. It is made more exciting by the fact that as a childhood leukemia survivor, Nicole my niece, was told she may never have children. The birth of this little girl is a reminder that hope is alive. I think of all the women who face a breast cancer diagnosis with real hope. We hope it hasn’t spread. We hope treatment will arrest it. We hope we have beaten it once and for all. Our hope is real and it sustains us. I think too of those who hoped to survive breast cancer and didn’t. I am awed that even then hope neve... Life with Breast Cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2886685 Mon, 12 Oct 2009 16:08:36 +0100 2886685 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2814635&cid=t_106831_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2FNK2ouJPugrc%2Fnewly-dx-week-real-life-guide-to-diabetes.php To kick off Newly Dx Week on Diabetes Daily, I am pleased to share an illuminating interview with Hope Warshaw. Hope is co-author of the new book, The Real-Life Guide to Diabetes: How to Handle Everyday Emergencies--And More (amazon link). So let's dive right in! Don't miss the attachments! I've included the table of contents, a checklist for creating your diabetes emergency kit, and some of my favorite pages at the end.Who should read the Real-Life Guide to Diabetes?The book is very much written for person with pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes. While there’s certainly lot of info about diabetes in general,dealing with diabetes, emergencies, standards of care, updates on research studies, dealing with depression, etc, the over-arching information for the book is for pre-diabetes or type 2... Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2814635 Mon, 21 Sep 2009 15:00:00 +0100 2814635 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2859104&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lrdlc.dreamhosters.com%2F2009%2F09%2Fwhen-cancer-killed-grandma%2F I’d like to expand on what I wrote in this post, particularly about my grandma. I didn’t write enough about how her death affected me. She was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer  when she was 85 and I was 15. It’s been said that type of cancer is one of the most excruciating and lethal. (R.I.P., Mr. Swayze) Let me backtrack… my granny was Manuela. She insisted we call her Manuelita, though. She didn’t want to hear any of that “abuelita” or “grandma” business. She was short, stocky, feisty, and incredibly rugged for her age. She lived with my family since before I was born. In a sense, she was a second mom. They both ran the show while Dad was off working. Dad, Mom, and Manuelita: they were the bosses of us 5 kids. Manuelita & me Manu... Cancer, life, and me blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2859104 Fri, 18 Sep 2009 22:26:07 +0100 2859104 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2859105&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lrdlc.dreamhosters.com%2F2009%2F09%2Fmy-foundation-dads-response%2F Not too long ago, I wrote about my father. He called me yesterday and asked if I was ready to hear his response yet. I said, “Sure.” I was curious. He actually read this to me over the phone. Can you say emotional? Between him choking up and me reaching for tissues…well, I’ll let you read it. He left this as a comment on the blog yesterday, but I’m elevating it to full-on blog post, baby! My comments are in GREEN. His reply: Hi mi hijo, After I read “My Foundation” I was crying for awhile, and so many memories to to my mind and heart. I remember how many of my plans (as a dad) for you suddenly collapsed right before my eyes. I figured maybe you would be a great soccer player. But, most of all, a martial artist that I could be teaching and coaching. (My Dad... Cancer, life, and me blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2859105 Thu, 17 Sep 2009 20:12:51 +0100 2859105 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2793380&cid=t_106831_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2FUogoOOBetiM%2F I am on a Staycation (still in the same state but on vacation) with Scott (hubby) and Niya.  I didn't want to leave the you all hanging for a whole week...I have asked a few of my friends to be a guest blogger for me.   Guest Blogger #1:   I met Mark on twitter via Scottie J.  Mark is a Type 1 diabetic, Omnipod user, Husband, Fathe, diabetes advocate, author of the diabetes blog "Jagged Edge" and an awesome cheerleader.  Read "Hope" and you'll see why I am a fan of Jagged Edge (blog) and why I consider him a friend.  Thank you Mark!!!!  Warning: Grab some tissue.  Your going to need it.   Hope By Mark Mansheim   What does ‘hope’ look like? Many of us have seen the JDRF PSA with Mary Tyler Moore surrounded by chi... Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2793380 Mon, 14 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0100 2793380 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2859107&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=39027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lrdlc.dreamhosters.com%2F2009%2F09%2Ftrigger-point-injections-part-two%2F Before my first set of trigger point injections about 2 weeks ago, my whole upper/middle back was hurting. After the injections, I had pain relief that lasted about 10 days. Roughly 3 days ago, the pain returned. This morning, the pain was back to where it was originally, with one key difference: only one section of my back hurt now. Here’s a little visual for you: Back pain area before 8/24/09 Back pain area TODAY, before second set of injections So today, I had another set of injections, directed only around my right shoulder blade. 2 trigger points were identified and injected. Now I’m numb again, once again enjoying the absence of pain. I asked the doc, “So what’s the deal? Am I going to come here regularly from now on to get these shots as my pain sprouts up ag... Cancer, life, and me blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2859107 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 02:05:24 +0100 2859107 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2758066&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=36032&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-breast-cancer%2Fted-kennedy-another-casualty-of-the-war-on-cancer%2F This past August has proven to be the deadliest month in the entire war in Afghanistan, but still there is no comparison to the casualties from another war that America has been fighting for almost 40 years; the war on cancer. Since 1971 when president Nixon declared war on cancer we have seen better and more effective treatments, we have seen less people dying from the disease and others living longer than was initially expected. What we have not seen is a cure. We have even forgotten that we are still at war. We lost a champion for universal health care and a man who worked to initiate the war on cancer when Senator Ted Kennedy died last week. He especially understood how this war was continuing to rage and found himself in the midst of battle when he was diagnosed with an incurable brai... Life with Breast Cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2758066 Tue, 01 Sep 2009 21:38:04 +0100 2758066 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2725002&cid=t_106831_117_f&fid=38856&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.timemastermd.com%2F%3Fp%3D694 “Obama-bonics?”  Today, I heard something I never thought would be proclaimed by the President of the United States of America, the leader of the free world, the most powerful man on the planet…he said, “people in America are getting awl wee-weed up.”  Now, I have used a bit of slang in my day, and I’ll admit I am not down with street lingo, but wee weed up?  Is that a form of ebonics mixed with politics?   Or maybe he was thinking of the good old days when he wet his diaper back in Kenya, and began his political career where he  hoped for a “change”?   The only thing for sure is that his poll numbers are going into the toilet these days, and for good reason. Say it ain’t so Joe,” no flow!” Speaking of going into t... Timemaster MD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2725002 Sat, 22 Aug 2009 04:15:49 +0100 2725002 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2724828&cid=t_106831_87_f&fid=34935&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedicine.com.my%2Fwp%2F%3Fp%3D7733 I came across a video of Nick Vujicic in Facebook. It’s a truly amazing story of how one man grew up with so much disability and hardship yet found the motivation and courage to be such an inspiration to others. Links: The Official Nick Vujicic Website DailyMail: Life without limb-its: The astonishing story of the man born without arms or legs from the Malaysian Medical Resources Life without limbs: the inspiring story of Nick Vujicic (Source: Malaysian Medical Resources) Malaysian Medical Resources blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2724828 Fri, 21 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2724828 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2606193&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=36032&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-breast-cancer%2Fthe-power-of-hope-to-fight-breast-cancer%2F When you are given a breast cancer diagnosis you immediately realize that your world has been changed. The one thing that gives us the power to go on is hope. We hope that the cancer was caught early. We hope that the doctor will get all the cancer when he does the surgery and we hope that the cancer hasn’t spread. Hope is a powerful thing. It keeps us searching for answers and fixes our eyes on the future. Hope is the seed that faith grows on. Faith is believing that we have what we hope for. Faith is unshakable trust in the outcome, but faith doesn’t grow without hope. A lot of people that get depressed during treatment have given up hope. The sick feelings and drudgery of chemotherapy and radiation can have that effect. That is when we need support from other people. Finding... Life with Breast Cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2606193 Wed, 15 Jul 2009 20:59:06 +0100 2606193 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2442499&cid=t_106831_134_f&fid=34841&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diabetesmine.com%2F2009%2F05%2Fcarbohydrate-how-much-or-not-to-munch.html My recent post about Carb Intake for Type 1 Diabetics was pretty critical of new research and of the ADA’s recommendations. Today, please enjoy a counterpoint view:   A Guest Post by Hope Warshaw, nutrition expert and CDE As a dietitian and diabetes educator for more years than I like to count, (however, not a person with [...] (Source: Diabetes Mine) Diabetes Mine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2442499 Fri, 29 May 2009 13:52:27 +0100 2442499 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2424345&cid=t_106831_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fthe-war-on-daily-pain%2F Funny, isn’t it, all the little truisms you pick up along the highway of life; kind of like road signs? Remember the old Burma Shave signs we used to read along the road when we would travel as children? Today, we’re all grown up and the road of chronic pain and illness is somewhat like those thoroughfares in Iraq; mined with hazards all along the way. Some days you maneuver along just fine, detecting the mines, driving cautiously and being just plain lucky. Those are the days your radar is working and you have gained the upper hand. Other days, a bomb goes off in your face or if it doesn’t, you almost pray one would. Each day is different than the previous one. You wonder, cautiously, “What will tomorrow bring?” It’s never boring, living this way, that’s for certain. We are ... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2424345 Tue, 19 May 2009 19:59:53 +0100 2424345 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2296858&cid=t_106831_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2FbDvjlh_DeLs%2F All my life I’ve thought of cabling as impossible. Slip stitches onto a cable needle? And twist them or something so they seem to magically work themselves into a raised, entwined weave? That’s for magicians. Or brilliant knitters. Or people who are just so talented they can intuit this stuff the way the rest of us intuit swallowing. I never even bothered reading directions for cabling (what’s the use?) or letting anyone try to teach me (why waste time on something I won’t be able to learn?). Then one day (last Wednesday) I thought, I can do this. I have a big book of knitting, crochet and embroidery directions from the laundry room book exchange, and I decided to look at the cable directions. They seemed clear enough. I don’t have an actual cable needle but I h... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2296858 Sat, 28 Mar 2009 19:28:11 +0100 2296858 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2297360&cid=t_106831_134_f&fid=34841&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diabetesmine.com%2F2009%2F03%2Fnew-real-life-guide-to-diabetes-bold-colorful.html The “Real-Life Guide to Diabetes” just published by the ADA is definitely something new. It almost looks a little like my daughters’ favorite “Smart Girls’ Guide” series, or those kids science books all chock full colorful images, highlighted quotes and pop-out boxes to grab your attention in bunches of little “content bites.” So [...] (Source: Diabetes Mine) Diabetes Mine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2297360 Thu, 26 Mar 2009 14:13:16 +0100 2297360 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2277185&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=37846&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhealthinfoispower.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F03%2F16%2Fearly-detection-remains-key-in-updated-national-comprehensive-cancer-network-nccn-guidelines-for-ovarian-cancer%2F New updates to the NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology™ for Ovarian Cancer were presented at the NCCN 14th Annual Conference on March 14. Notable additions to the NCCN Guidelines are a section on managing allergic reactions to chemotherapy agents and new agents for recurrence therapy. Robert J. Morgan Jr., M.D., F.A.C.P. of  the City [...] (Source: Libby's H*O*P*E*) Libby's H*O*P*E* blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2277185 Mon, 16 Mar 2009 21:23:47 +0100 2277185 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2227516&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2FCj75FOQRqvY%2F Anger is another topic that has received little play in meetings in this locale in recent memory. A lot can be written and said about anger by alcoholics. I am in full agreement with Mel B.; “What really is behind a temper outburst? A temper explosion is not something that just blows up out of nowhere, a storm without a cause. It is actually a surface manifestation of inner hostility, of the emotions we often call ‘resentments’ in AA. I’ve learned that I am subject to moments of rage only if I allow myself to wallow around in a swamp of resentful, self-pitying thoughts. It is easy to become outwardly angry, for example, when I have spent several hours thinking about past mistakes, or going over how badly someone treated me in the past. I can also become angry over r... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2227516 Mon, 02 Mar 2009 04:07:41 +0100 2227516 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2222552&cid=t_106831_134_f&fid=34841&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diabetesmine.com%2F2009%2F02%2Fsurviving-on-hope.html Another post that first appeared on the Diabetes OC site when I was “Featured Blogger of the Week” over the holidays.  This one kind of sums up what keeps me going, even on the worst D-days… Hope If I’ve learned anything about living with diabetes (see my previous post here), it’s that attitude is everything. When other people [...] (Source: Diabetes Mine) Diabetes Mine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2222552 Sat, 28 Feb 2009 19:56:55 +0100 2222552 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2169824&cid=t_106831_109_f&fid=35044&url=http%3A%2F%2Fadultaddstrengths.com%2F2009%2F02%2F09%2F12-ways-to-be-miserable%2F Post from: Adult ADD Strengths 12 Ways To Be Miserable Here are my notes from a talk given by Vancouver based Dr. Randy Paterson, author and psychologist at Changeways private clinic at the Vancouver Wellness show Feb 7th 2009 Here are my notes on his talk. People often engage in actions and behaviors that if you keep asking them “and if you get that, what will that get you?” the ultimate result is often “If I get that I’ll be happy”. One way to figure how to achieve more happiness is to find what works to make people the opposite of being happy, being miserable, and then do the opposite of that in order to become happier. In this talk he’s discussing how to be miserable, not necessarily full blown depression. Pete’s note:Adults with ADHD have much... Adult ADD Strengths blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2169824 Mon, 09 Feb 2009 06:10:57 +0100 2169824 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2149636&cid=t_106831_93_f&fid=34899&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mexicomedstudent.com%2F2009%2F01%2F897 For whatever reason, I feel compelled to finish this languishing draft in a form different than it began, wanting to publicly consolidate some thoughts on last week’s inauguration while not waxing as far as I originally tried about the future of our nation and a renewed hope in our place in the world. To be sure, I am as excited as I was last week about these things, and I am happy to see that after less 10 days in office, Obama has not only repealed some of the shameful legacies of our last president, but clearly has set an unapologetically new tone from the West Wing to the West Bank. For the record, I fully expect to be disappointed in some things I really feel strongly about not moving forward the way I thought or that he originally promised. Part of being a good leader is adapti... Mexico Medical Student blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2149636 Sat, 31 Jan 2009 13:00:09 +0100 2149636 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2121623&cid=t_106831_111_f&fid=34712&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdigitaldoorway.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F01%2Finauguration-day-walking-forward.html On this Inauguration Day, there were so many smiles, so many tears shed, such an outpouring of hope. We rejoiced with hundreds of others in our local independent movie theater, watching a live video feed of the day's proceedings on the silver screen.Even as the naysayers begin to rev the engines of opposition, I am simply stunned that an African American man of such stature and eloquence now holds this most powerful office. And a beautiful African American family now begins their residence in the White House on this very evening, two young star-struck schoolgirls tucked into unfamiliar beds, perhaps only realizing how their lives have truly changed.Personally, I am ready to give what I can, to volunteer my time, to share my thoughts, and to sacrifice when sacrifice is needed. It is an ebul... Digital Doorway blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2121623 Wed, 21 Jan 2009 01:19:00 +0100 2121623 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2116027&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2FT282z3n0UL8%2F God, keep me from thinking I must share in every meeting, no matter the topic. Keep my mind free from the recital of endless details and give me wings to get to the point. Remind me to guard confidences and to keep still when I feel it is necessary to speak up for someone’s own good. Release me from the need to straighten out everybody else’s thinking and program. God, I ask for the grace to listen to newcomers. Please help me to remember the patience with which others listened to me when I was new. Please seal my lips to giving advice, and help me to remember to share only my experience, strength, and hope. Remind me that my purpose is to fit myself to be of maximum service to You and to the people around me. Help me to remain teachable. Teach me (again) the lesson that, occa... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2116027 Mon, 19 Jan 2009 23:23:48 +0100 2116027 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2074616&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2Fz4zmH7OSphI%2F We sit in meetings, we offer others our experience, strength and hope, we share the stories of our lives. Why? I think the last paragraph of the preface of the Fourth Edition says it well; “All changes made over the years in the Big Book (A.A. members’ fond nickname for this volume) have had the same purpose: to represent the current membership of Alcoholics Anonymous more accurately, and thereby to reach more alcoholics. If you have a drinking problem, we hope that you may pause in reading one of the forty-two personal stories and think: “Yes, that happened to me”; or, more important, “Yes, I’ve felt like that”; or, most important, “Yes, I believe this program can work for me too.” We’ll be waiting for you… Share This (Sour... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2074616 Wed, 31 Dec 2008 04:14:01 +0100 2074616 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2074617&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2FLP3JfAnRt4I%2F Earthlings will not be able to understand this… From Chap. 11 “A Vision For You” “For most normal folks, drinking means conviviality, companionship and colorful imagination. It means release from care, boredom and worry. It is joyous intimacy with friends and a feeling that life is good. But not so with us in those last days of heavy drinking. The old pleasures were gone. They were but memories. Never could we recapture the past. There was an insistent yearning to enjoy life as we once did and a heartbreaking obsession that some new miracle of control would enable us to do it. There was always one more attempt - and one more failure.” I might add - ad infinitum… the failures seemed to be neverending themselves. I’d like to suggest that if your drin... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2074617 Tue, 30 Dec 2008 03:17:51 +0100 2074617 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2065454&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F4eZZjMQ5j8M%2F This really hasn’t changed except for the physical location, which is now on my hip! 9) “Keep that phone running hot. Other alkies are feeling as restless as you during the festive season. They will appreciate a ‘how are you doing?’ call just as much as you will appreciate talking to them.” Please, make sure you put them on silent mode or vibrate during meetings, okay? But keep your phone charged at all times for the next week or so! Funny - I never thought I’d be hooked up to the world 24/7 yet I am today. And it can be irritating especially when you self-centered alkies want to talk at the same time my boss wants some work out of me :) but it remains my lifeline. So I make sure it is charged every day when I leave home. How many of you remember when we... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2065454 Wed, 24 Dec 2008 13:04:51 +0100 2065454 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2061272&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2FPkEFDgCQJSo%2F Pay Attention… 8) If you do attend a drinking occasion, watch your drink. People who do not understand alcoholism may think it is “funny” to put something in your drink. Hold onto it or keep it where you can see it. After a few years of practice, I have finally discovered that I can actually survive for long periods at a party without having a drink of any sort in my hand! These days, I get a drink if I am thirsty, drink it, and put the glass down. I do not have to wander round holding the damn glass all night these days! Get your own. Share This (Source: A Dozen Steps) A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2061272 Mon, 22 Dec 2008 14:11:08 +0100 2061272 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2053016&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2FzdpAJvkZi5s%2F Don’t forget - your life depends on it… 7) You may need more meetings in the festive season than you ordinarily do to remain on an even keel. I certainly do. Plan this ahead, particularly if you are traveling to somewhere you do not ordinarily attend meetings. Know ahead of time where the meetings are, have a detailed map that shows the location of the meeting, and know how you are going to get there. Don’t bet your life on a meeting that may be closed on Christmas Day. If you are going from the city to a country town, obtain a detailed map: street signs are going to be a bit thin on the ground, and street numbers may not be there at all. Similarly, whereas the public transport is frequent and reliable in a city, you may have to make other arrangements in rural areas. Wha... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2053016 Sat, 20 Dec 2008 03:13:06 +0100 2053016 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2053017&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2Fua_sGFCvmFQ%2F Oh really? Would you like some kind of special recognition? Allow someone to clue you in (because obviously you don’t have a clue), you’re simply not that important! That’s right! If you noticed, as you strolled into the meeting, we’d already begun without you… so, no, we didn’t need your presence in order to start this meeting. Now that you’re here - do the newcomer a huge favor, okay? Don’t shuffle your chair around or whisper to your buddy. The readings are being read and the newcomer is trying to listen. You wouldn’t want the newcomer to miss something that might help them stay sober today on your sorry account, would you? And you want respect… Share This (Source: A Dozen Steps) A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2053017 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 22:25:03 +0100 2053017 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2047315&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F40r5Y4RpA8c%2F This is for that pest who hangs around holidays like a dark cloud… 6) The only people who will persist with offers of drinks are people who have a problem. Often, it is the problem that you and I know a bit about. Try this four-stage fall-back when someone persists: “No thanks” “No thanks, I don’t want one.” “Look, I have told you twice already I do not want a drink.” “I can’t understand why you are so interested in whether or not I am drinking-you don’t have a problem with the booze, do you?” Trust me, that will be the last you hear of them. Whatever you do, do not explain. That only makes them worse. You may have already discovered that social drinkers cannot understand our explanations of alcoholism. That is becau... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2047315 Wed, 17 Dec 2008 13:22:54 +0100 2047315 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2040271&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2FEAMP_Xi4PNY%2F There is no need to justify your current actions - they are keeping you alive… 5) You do not have to EXPLAIN that you are not drinking. After a few years now, I am getting quite good at this. At the works Christmas party, only ONE person asked me if I would like a drink (he was on his way to the bar and offered to get me one). I said “No thanks” and he carried on without another word. The trick is to say “No thanks” in a firm, neutral voice. If you sound nervous or uncertain, social drinkers think you are asking them to talk you into having a drink, so they will try. If you simply say “No” firmly, in a neutral tone, they will accept that you know your own mind (if only they knew…) and not raise the subject again. Of course, the wisest thing t... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2040271 Tue, 16 Dec 2008 14:10:32 +0100 2040271 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2040272&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2FYSuTKG-OL54%2F Much like #3; 4) Do not go to any drinking occasion unless you have your own independent means of getting home. That means take your own car, or have the taxi fare in your pocket, or make sure the busses are running all night. Getting trapped in a party because your ride does not want to leave until three am. is a slow and gruesome form of torture. You need the ability to be able to say “Well I feel a little queasy, so I am going home.” They do not need to know that it is your head, not your stomach, that is playing up. Know your own glass, fill it yourself… Share This (Source: A Dozen Steps) A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2040272 Mon, 15 Dec 2008 12:56:42 +0100 2040272 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2035909&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2FyJgiSxPaipw%2F In touch with someone who has a terrible need to fight all the hard earned experience you’ve managed to put together and are attempting to pass along? You know, that person who denies you everything you’re about today despite the fact that you lived it? The lady or gentleman who continue to believe that their brain will conquer their disease? Thankfully, our founders foresaw these people and wrote; “Do not be discouraged if your prospect does not respond at once. Search out another alcoholic and try again. You are sure to find someone desperate enough to accept with eagerness what you offer. We find it a waste of time to keep chasing a man who cannot or will not work with you. If you leave such a person alone, he may soon become convinced that he cannot recover by himself... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2035909 Sun, 14 Dec 2008 14:57:13 +0100 2035909 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2035910&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2Fp623nQy30Ek%2F I have my own thoughts on this one… 3) Do NOT become “designated driver” for ANYONE. In early sobriety, watching a large group of my friends partying-on and getting loaded was quite stressful. When I began to feel pressured, I left. That is not possible if you have to try to pry a carload of drunks who have now got the taste for it out of a party. When we start to feel uncomfortable, we must have the ability to leave immediately, that instant. It takes more strength of character than I would have had to say “Me and the car are leaving NOW, you guys come now or walk home.” Drive your own vehicle, go late, leave early, bring support with you. An even better thought might be to not attend a booze party! Attribution anyone? Please… [Tip 1, Tip 2] Share This ... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2035910 Sun, 14 Dec 2008 03:07:54 +0100 2035910 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2033414&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2FUESzaxUWWtg%2F This is the second of our tips that we hope will help you stay sober during this holiday season… 2) Just because my family “expects” me to attend their Christmas celebration, does not mean I have to! Some of us come from families that turn into real animal farms of drinking, drugging, arguing, and blaming at Christmas time. These things can be a challenge when you have been sober for a few years. In early sobriety, they come under the heading of things we cannot yet do. So I did not try. There were plenty of occasions when I did not turn up when I was expected because I was too drunk: now there are a couple I have missed because I was too sober! It was more than two years into my sobriety before I could handle my family with any degree of serenity. In the early days, I ju... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2033414 Sat, 13 Dec 2008 00:26:44 +0100 2033414 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2033415&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2Fu7chy9YWqAE%2F Here are some excellent thoughts from folks for not drinking during the holidays. We’ve got just enough time to post all 9… [from a collective experience of those in their first year of recovery] 1) If you don’t want to slip, don’t go where it’s slippery! This means that we should avoid drinking occasions if we think they are going to be troublesome for us. Whether they are or not depends a bit on how much progress we have made with the steps. But for my first year, I was advised to make it a rule “Don’t go unless you have a GOOD reason for being there.” In my first year, I would very definitely not enjoy myself at a drinking occasion, and I certainly would not write any new business (come to think of it, I NEVER wrote any business at a drink... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2033415 Thu, 11 Dec 2008 19:39:58 +0100 2033415 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2013717&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2Ff1X0hr6zBlY%2F Looking for something to write about and, once again, I found it at Barefoot’s World; “The Twelve Steps As Ego Deflating Devices” By Dr. Harry M. Tiebout - sub-titled “What Does Surrender Mean?” “For reasons still obscure, the program and the fellowship of AA could cause a surrender, which in turn would lead to a period of no drinking. It became ever more apparent that in everyone’s psyche there existed an unconquerable ego which bitterly opposed any thought of defeat. Until that ego was somehow reduced or rendered ineffective, no likelihood of surrender could be anticipated.” Wow - bitterly opposed any thought of defeat! Oh, that’s right, now I remember - my ex-wife once reminded me, as sober me watched My Name Is Bill W. how I had abs... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2013717 Fri, 05 Dec 2008 06:15:11 +0100 2013717 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1961032&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F4NCVXrclj_8%2F A poem by Jack McC called simply “Drunks” (thanks again Alex) We died of pneumonia in furnished rooms where they found us three days later when somebody complained about the smell. We died against bridge abutments and nobody knew if it was suicide and we probably didn’t know either except in the sense that it was always suicide. We died in hospitals, our stomachs huge, distended and there was nothing they could do. We died in cells, never knowing whether we were guilty or not. We went to priests, they gave us pledges, they told us to pray, they told us to go and sin no more, but go. We tried and we died. We died of overdoses, we died in bed (but usually not the Big Bed) We died in straitjackets, in the DT’s seeing God knows what, creeping skittering slithering shuf... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1961032 Thu, 13 Nov 2008 20:53:41 +0100 1961032 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1947376&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2FfI7HZeQQnPg%2F On January 6th, 1990 and He’ll do it for you too! “How It Works” tells us; “It is plain that a life which includes deep resentment leads only to futility and unhappiness. To the precise extent that we permit these, do we squander the hours that might have been worth while. But with the alcoholic, whose hope is the maintenance and growth of a spiritual experience, this business of resentment is infinitely grave. We found that it is fatal. For when harboring such feelings we shut ourselves off from the sunlight of the Spirit. The insanity of alcohol returns and we drink again. And with us, to drink is to die.” Yesterday I was not in a spiritual state of mind and brought that to a meeting. My good friend Don, who has just picked up a 25 yr. coin, told me in no uncertain terms, t... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1947376 Mon, 10 Nov 2008 12:50:32 +0100 1947376 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1943429&cid=t_106831_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2F445922673%2Fif-i-could-have-picked.php If I could have picked how it all worked out on the day I gave birth to our daughter, I would have asked for it to go exactly as it did.  I know that I am extremely fortunate to be... (Source: Diabetes Daily) Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1943429 Fri, 07 Nov 2008 20:58:36 +0100 1943429 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1939383&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2FOVbYuG12z78%2F And they put it into print, in black and white on page 164 of the Big Book Alcoholics Anonymous. I thank God for the old-timers He brought into my life who taught me clearly and distinctly what recovery was about. Through Him they saved my life. “God will constantly disclose more to you and to us.” I find it both interesting and arrogant that there are those who insist upon being different because they are “recovered.” Not only are they different, they are better than you and I. They have the Big Book down cold and whatever you don’t have that they have means you somehow don’t belong. Well, I can’t say what I’d like to say. Suffice it to say that I would not offer to wish these folks Happy Birthday. They are divisive separatists. They set the... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1939383 Fri, 07 Nov 2008 04:58:14 +0100 1939383 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1939082&cid=t_106831_134_f&fid=34841&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diabetesmine.com%2F2008%2F11%2Fdiabetes-research-in-the-news-viewpoints-from-the-dri.html Are diabetes headlines in the mainstream media mostly a bunch of hype, or do they bring us real hope for the future?  The panel I moderated on this topic at the Diabetes Research Institute’s annual conference in New York City last week produced quite a lively discussion. I referenced all of your comments as well, [...] (Source: Diabetes Mine) Diabetes Mine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1939082 Thu, 06 Nov 2008 22:53:45 +0100 1939082 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1914907&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F6yvGuwQbSpo%2F Dr. Bob speaks of why he passes recovery on and also mentions something I can identify with… From pages 180-181; “I spend a great deal of time passing on what I learned to others who want it and need it badly. I do it for four reasons: Sense of duty. It is a pleasure. Because in so doing I am paying my debt to the man who took time to pass it on to me. Because every time I do it I take out a little more insurance for myself against a possible slip.” The sentence I can identify with because I attempted to place blame on my father early on; “So it doesn’t behoove me to squawk about it for, after all, nobody ever had to throw me down and pour liquor down my throat.” Almost to the word what an oldtimer responded to me that night. Share This (Source: A Do... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1914907 Wed, 29 Oct 2008 03:18:45 +0100 1914907 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1911444&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2F_bsY8z9dR24%2F From page 181 in the Big Book; “If you think you are an atheist, an agnostic, a skeptic, or have any other form of intellectual pride which keeps you from accepting what is in this book, I feel sorry for you. If you still think you are strong enough to beat the game alone, that is your affair. But if you really and truly want to quit drinking liquor for good and all, and sincerely feel that you must have some help, we know that we have an answer for you. It never fails, if you go about it with one half the zeal you have been in the habit of showing when you were getting another drink.” Dr. Bob apparently knew nothing of pc recovery or stroking someone’s feathers to help them into recovery. Thankfully… Share This (Source: A Dozen Steps) A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1911444 Tue, 28 Oct 2008 03:35:45 +0100 1911444 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1901811&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2FK-WWLxnkNFk%2F This is from a powerful article in this month’s Grapevine. It allows me to continue to stand for opportunities to present crosstalk in meetings, when done responsibly, as an invaluable tool with which to attain sobriety. Juliet H. tells us; “I am practicing the spirit of the Tenth Tradition as long as I am sharing my experience, strength, and hope, and not my opinions. By practicing this, I’ve been able to strengthen my relationships in and out of the rooms…” It is important for me to take note of what Juliet says next; “One of the sayings I’ve heard in the rooms for many years is, ‘We go to meetings to give, not to get.’ For me, the difference between being a ‘giver’ and a ‘taker’ is the quality of what I bring ... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1901811 Thu, 23 Oct 2008 21:56:46 +0100 1901811 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1901812&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2FQcs09QD12f0%2F Now I’m becoming aware of why someone developed that saying… I’m trying to resolve, for me, this statement that Lulu left in her comment; “Life saving” should be done at the end of the meeting and thereby avoiding the fall out of unsolicited advice giving and know-it-all attitudes. I do not agree with it and, to my thinking (yeah, I know), it doesn’t make sense. I’ll tell you why. To limit “life saving” to after a meeting is totally contradictory to what I’ve lived as a sober member of AA. Imagine if God limited His time saving lives to certain periods of time. That’s silly. Had Steve T. not stood in front of the Blue Point beginner’s meeting, in front of approx. 40 or so other newcomers, and told me in no uncertain terms that... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1901812 Thu, 23 Oct 2008 18:41:03 +0100 1901812 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1859828&cid=t_106831_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.healthtalk.com%2Fchronic-pain%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fhard-times-in-pain-valley%2F If there is one thing we know, those of us who live with chronic pain, it is that there are good times and bad times. The good times may not be as good as they once were, but we have a tendency to lower our standards a bit and just settle for a comfortable day. Bad times, well, those can range from miserable and difficult to “Oh, dear God, will this day never end?” It’s a difficult situation to explain to those who don’t know how miserable life can be. If you explain it too much, you’re a whiner. If you don’t explain it at all, they think you’re depressed or nuts. Finding the middle ground is a tricky business for most of us. Since we don’t live in a bubble, communication is often necessary in order to explain our behavior to our loved ones, getting the message across to ou... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1859828 Tue, 07 Oct 2008 22:26:48 +0100 1859828 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1851315&cid=t_106831_136_f&fid=36032&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblog.healthtalk.com%2Fbreast-cancer%2Flife-with-breast-cancer%2Fideas-for-survivors-to-celebrate-pink-month%2F October is a time of celebration and thanksgiving for me. I celebrate because I am a breast cancer survivor and this is my month. Canadian Thanksgiving also falls in October which gives me another chance to eat turkey and be thankful for surviving breast cancer. October really is OUR month to shine. In 2008 more people than ever before are surviving breast cancer. The fear factor has gone way down as we no longer see a diagnosis of breast cancer as a death sentence. We are winning little by little over the disease. This calls for celebration; as a survivor, your life calls for celebration! Last year I made an oversized pink ribbon to wear on my lapel. This year I have other ideas to share with you to make your month fun. How about tying a pink ribbon around one of the trees in your front y... Life with Breast Cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1851315 Fri, 03 Oct 2008 21:42:08 +0100 1851315 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1833350&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2FwwHj1xugU3w%2F “Then would come oblivion and the awful awakening to face the hideous Four Horsemen” Terror - Extreme or intense fear. Bewilderment - Confused or perplexed. Despair - To give up all hope or expectation. Frustration - Dissatisfied, agitated, and/or discontent because one is unable to perform an action or fulfill a desire. It’s no coincidence that they follow directly the seeking out of “sordid places, hoping to find understanding companionship and approval.” It is also no coincidence that shortly thereafter we find; “He cannot picture life without alcohol. Some day he will be unable to imagine life either with alcohol or without it. Then he will know loneliness such as few do. He will be at the jumping-off place. He will wish for the end.” Pleas... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1833350 Sat, 27 Sep 2008 03:12:39 +0100 1833350 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1826020&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2FhEBqwPIiZeo%2F In 1958 Bill W. found himself asking this question, “Why can’t the Twelve Steps work to release depression?” First things first, in 1993, with almost 4 years sober, I was diagnosed as a “depressive.” My sponsor was with me when this happened. It is a much longer story than what you’ll see now but it revolved around my divorce. Therefore, for me, depression involves relationships and my need for attention and my need to be needed. Bill understood. He wrote a letter to a fellow AA member and talked about depression and - LOVE. Go figure… Bill found himself staring at the St. Francis prayer, “It is better to comfort than to be comforted.” He knew he was looking at the answer yet he couldn’t see it! Then, he says; “Suddenly I re... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1826020 Wed, 24 Sep 2008 06:15:20 +0100 1826020 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1811649&cid=t_106831_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F397229032%2F A few days ago, Rajendra, an Indian reader of our newsletter, told us that ASHA (the acronym for the American Seniors Housing Association, for whom we prepared this special report), means Hope in Hindi. Asha, everyone! Then, we saw a few excellent articles on Brain Fitness and SharpBrains in mmultiple languages and continents-time to practice our language skills!: Train your brain (Financial Times Germany): "Ob Gehirntraining etwas nützt ist nicht bewiesen. Aber in den USA boomt der Markt, Hersteller kooperieren mit Krankenkassen und Seniorenheimen. In Deutschland fassen die Spiele gerade erst Fuß." Toman auge ejercicios que adiestran la mente (Milenio, Mexico): "La clave está en encontrar actividades que estimulen más nuestra memoria." Trois nouvelles études IDATE... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1811649 Fri, 19 Sep 2008 13:58:57 +0100 1811649 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1779522&cid=t_106831_151_f&fid=36047&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FADozenSteps%2F%7E3%2FcZm7IXs6OwA%2F Since there is often much talk about this topic - Alcoholics Anonymous has provided a pamphlet filled with valuable information about medications and other drugs. This is the opening disclaimer; Alcoholics Anonymous is a program for alcoholics who seek freedom from alcohol. It is not a program against drugs. However, some A.A. members have misused drugs, often as a substitute for alcohol, in such a manner as to become a threat to the achievement and maintenance of sobriety. These incidents have caused all A.A. members to be concerned with what is popularly known as the “pill problem.” Often as a substitute. Yep, that’s me! I also used them to offer myself the opportunity to tell “you” that I didn’t have an alcohol problem, I had a drug problem. Worked - for a wh... A Dozen Steps blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1779522 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 06:15:38 +0100 1779522