Welcome To My Little Corner Of The World

2011-11-05T13:24:00.002-05:00

Good Afternoon Everyone !
Wow ! what a year it has been for me with the ups and downs of this Lung Cancer stuff, being on prednisone so often has dropped my immune system into the bottom of the ocean..lol

I just got out of the hospital with double pneumonia, I went to the Dr cause I did not feel well he looked at me and said, you are going into the hospital You do not look good..no kidding.. so off to the hospital I go, got admitted and all settled in and then comes the nurse with all the good stuff to hang off the intravenous they pumped me with a very strong Antibiotic as well as more steroids 60mg every 6 hrs. yup I look like the moon with the nice round face gotta have a good laugh every once in a while. Then they woke me every other hr it seemed to give me more meds or breathing treatment (nebulizer) you can never rest in the hospital.

When I came home I had two prescriptions one for Prednisone to start 40mg, then ween off to none. The other was for an antibiotic can you believe with my health ins. it would have cost me $400.00 !!!!!! needles to say I called the Dr and he called in another prescription for me which by the way was free at our local Publix supermarket, I lucked out on that one.

When I go out now I make sure I wear a mask over my oxygen just in case someone sneezes or coughs and I always use the sanitary wipes they have for the shopping carts.

I am still pretty tired but this too shall pass with plenty of rest.

I guess that's all for now, any questions or commentss for me feel free to reply to this post.

Until we meet again my friends,

Inhale...123

Exhale....1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

Radiation & Chemo Treatments Continue

2010-11-18T16:28:00.002-05:00

Good Evening to everyone here "At Welcome To My Little Corner of The World"
Another day dawns and more treatments continue, as of today Thurs, 11-18- I have 17 more Radiation treatments and not quite sure of the amount left on the Chemo I should find that out when I see the Chemo Dr. on Tues. The chemo continues with a 6hr treatment to include Chemo for one hr, steroids for 20 min and another drug used to treat nausea. Now remember everyone is different and how they handle their treatments I have found out that receiving chemo for 5 days with Steroids is doing a job on my sleep pattern also in some cases it's called "Chemo Rage" and is not uncommon, so the next step get something to bring down the anxiety level..jeez always something to keep the ball rolling ! Soon the cure will be in sight.

I had to have a ct done this am then saw the Radiation Oncologist who suggested I get a chest x-ray cause my right lung (with the tumor) was congested well, thank God nothing showed I was allowed to go home, possible wheezing from the Pulmonary Fibrosis which we knew may happen.

So that's about all for today I will try to do better and keep you all posted.

Until we meet again my friends remember,

Inhale~~~123

Exhale ~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

More Tests

2010-09-26T04:38:00.002-05:00

Good Morning to all here at "Welcome To My Little Corner Of The World" !

I know it's been a reallly long time since my last post, reason being is that I have been sick and in and out of the hospital, having tests after tests. First test a Bronchoscopy not a comforting test either altho, I was in la la land during the test however, the first part when they numb your nose and throat.made me gag a little yuk!
Anyway test was done and part of my lung was biopsied, results were inconclusive, so the Dr. could not make a positive diagnosis. More x rays to follow it's a wonder I don't light up at night from all of the radiation !

The next step a fine needle aspiration of my right lung and the Dr. went thru my right side to obtain the tissue needed for the lab. So now it's the waiting game again.

The following week I saw the Pulmo. Dr. for the results which came back positive for Large Cell Carcinoma. So now I need to see a Medical Oncologist for evaluation of the situation and then onto see a Cancer Specialist for treatment.

Here we are again faced with yet another challenge and by God I will take this challenge head on and keep you all apprised of the progress and treatments.

Now remember, everyone is different in their own ways with regards to their health, my situation is unique to me and may not be the same for anyone else.

Until we meet again my friends remember,

Inhale~~~123

Exhale~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

Recliner/Back Pain

2010-05-23T05:33:00.002-05:00

Good Day to all here at "Welcome To My Little Corner Of The World"

Trust everyone is well and breathing easy these days.

Do you remember my last post on COPD Exacerbation and my last words were, that I didn't end up in the hospital..hmmm well the following month I bought a new plushy recliner and after a few days my back was hurting so bad I thought it was the recliner ! being that I was sitting in a reclining position as opposed to a straight back chair.....I had an appointment with my Pulmo. Doc the following week and guess what...yupper Pneumonia again ! My back hurt so bad I couldn't even take a deep breath without excruciating pain !

That same day I was immediately admitted to the hospital IV antibiotic, steroids, fluids, morphine for the pain. I had a C/T done again with contrast I guess the contrast part of it shows more than just one without.

It picked up another "nodule" behind my rib cage we'll keep a watch on that one. "It could be worse" is my motto and keep a positive attitude.

I also had a biopsy done and the "outside of the nodule" is negative for any cancer cells..."Great"
Sometime with in the next 3 months I will have another C/T done and take it from there.

You may remember a while back I posted on knowing your meds while in the hospital..it happened again the night nurse was emphatic that I did not have any night time meds and I assured her she needed to go check my chart again and low and behold she came back and said "Oh" you do have evening meds give me a minute and I will get them for you.

Now, imagine someone else who is not as outspoken as I am and would have gone without the nighttime meds. It is so important to keep a list of your meds with you at all times and show it again and again if needed to the Nurses and or Dr's.

Lastly, the day of discharge my regular Pulmo. had someone cover his shift and this "Dr." prescribed a med./antibiotic for me to take while at home. I had someone go to the pharmacy for me to fill the script. the pharmacist said that this med. will interfere with my heart medicine !
Wow, I sure was glad the pharmacist was on top of things, the pharmacist called the Dr. and his reply was well she will have to wait to see her regular Pulmo. I will make sure in the future that I will not let that Dr. near me.
I told my Pulmo. Dr. of the situation, nothing more need be said on that the situation as it will be addressed.

I hope this post will be of good information and watch the warning signs altho everyone is different as I mentioned I thought my back pain was from the new chair.

I should have called the Pulmo. right away "live and learn" We all have different ways of handiling different situations my best advice don't wait, it's better to be safe than sorry and spend a week in the hospital.

Until we meet again my friends,
Remember,

Inhale~~~123
Exhale~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

Acute Exacerbation with COPD

2010-03-21T11:53:00.002-05:00

Greeting to all here at "Welcome To My Little Corner of The World" Where do the days go..Imagine yesterday was the first day of spring ! For some it is not so springy especially with the flooding and snow.

As usual I write my blog based on my own health sometimes it could be a while in between posts, that could be a good thing. Anyway last week I went to see my Pulmo for a check up he could hear wheezing and noticed shortness of breath..well after a few questions from him he determined it was an "Acute Exacerbation" with COPD. He put me on an Inhaler Xopenex HFA, Avelox 400 mg which is an antibiotic, continue with my regular inhalers and if necessary use the Nebulizer, and start of with 40mg of Prednisone and taper off till I am done with it. Also, continue with my o2 as prescribed 24/7.

Today I do feel better I am going to share some info I read on the Internet with regards to COPD Exacerbation I found it quite interesting.

In it's simplest terms, an exacerbation is a worsening of symptoms. In more in-depth terms, a COPD exacerbation can be defined as "an event in the natural course of the disease characterized by a change in the pt's baseline dyspnea,cough, and or sputum that is beyond normal day-to -day variations, is acute in onset and may warrant a change in medication in a patient with underlying COPD", according to the Global Initiative for Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD)

The main sympton-of an acute exacerbation of COPD is increased breathlessness which is often accompanied by the following: increased cough and sputum production, wheezing,fever, chest tightness. Treatment is the same as I had listed above. I was lucky this time I did not end up in the hospital..it could happen. Let me know if you have any comments.

Until we meet again my friends,

Remember....

Inhale~~~123

Exhale~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

Power Outage/Oxygen Concentrator

2010-02-02T15:05:00.003-05:00

Good Afternoon to all my friends here at "Welcome To My Little Corner of The World "

I know it's been a month since my last post and I have a few interesting tid bits I have to share with you.

Living in Florida can be a challenge with the crazy weather we have been having, ie: freezing temps., heat and humidity, more rain and more rain but the sun will soon shine.

Anyway what I found out is this...when we had the cold snap and the temps dropped into the low 30 our power went out! Imagine that lol we had no phone, no cable, no heat. So I called the power company on my cell and told them we had no power and of course I need the power to run my O2 Concentrator this is what they said I should do in case of future outages

...They will send me a letter to bring to my Dr. to sign stating that I am on 02 24/7 and do need the power. Once the Dr. signs the form and sends it back to the power Co. they will flag my account to be one of the first to be repaired.

I also do have two back up tanks from my O2 supplier that I can use if necessary.

The reason for this post is that a lot of folks probably are not aware of this service, the same applies for the Telephone Company I would suggest you do this before there is an outage just in case you do not have a cell phone.

Hope this information is helpful to all...

Until we meet again my friends remember,

Inhale~~~123

Exhale ~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

Thank You to all of you for your comments

2010-01-03T16:13:00.004-05:00

"Welcome to My Little Corner of The World"
It has been a long road from 2009 to 2010 and optimistically 2010 will be a better year !
I wanted to take this time to "Thank" everyone who responded with kind words to my posts, it means and has meant a lot to me to know that you are reading and responding.

I have written personally from my heart and from my own experiences and some from other sources in hopes to help others understand this disease. Living with a lung disease can be devastating we all know that but we have to make the best of it and I hope by my posts I can help you do just that.

Let me share this with you, I have sleep apnea and my o2 is hooked up to the apnea machine well, this morning about 2am I woke with shortness of breath...what the heck it seems that the 02 somehow became detached from the apnea machine ! I took my levels using my pulse oximeter and sure enough they were at 84 Wow, so not to panic I put on my 02 nasal cannula, sat down and relaxed using plb Pursed Lip Breathing and after a few minutes my levels were up to 96 whew ! Panic is not the way stay~~ calm please stay calm even if you have to call 911 stay calm, getting anxious or scared will make it worse...remember breathe easy...~Inhale 123~ Exhale ~1234

Until we meet again my friends as stated above,
Inhale ~123
Exhale ~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

Tylenol Recall & Year End 2009

2009-12-30T14:30:00.002-05:00

Hello to everyone here at "Welcome To My Little Corner Of The World"

Here we are another year has just about ended and hopefully 2010 will be a healthy and happy new year for us all.

I know this time of the year can cause depression and sadness for some of us who have no family near by but we cope we have to especially with our lung disease we really can not afford to get down cause it will bring us down.As I have said before others out there are worse of than I am I keep that thought and it does help.

Because of the cold and flu and germs all around I changed my plans to visit family up North till the spring. Now here's an interesting tid bit...do you realize that Airplanes do NOT clean the cabins between flights ! All they do is empty the trash, now think about this...the germs all over the tray tables, the seat handles even the a/c and light fixture above you is not ever sanitized nor are the bathroom stall door handles...what I will do on my flight north is bring a box of hand wipes and wipe everything down. Now I received the following Health Alert from the FDA.
Until we meet again my friends remember,
Inhale ~123
Exhale ~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

Happy New Year to everyone !

NewsEmergency.com FDA Posts Expanded Tylenol Recall - All
google_protectAndRun("ads_core.google_render_ad", google_handleError, google_render_ad);
McNeil Consumer Healthcare and FDA notified consumers that it is expanding a voluntary recall to include all available product lots of TYLENOL Arthritis Pain Caplet 100 count bottles, with the distinctive red EZ-OPEN CAP.
Consumers who purchased TYLENOL Arthritis Pain Caplet 100 count bottles with the distinctive red EZ-OPEN CAP from the lots (all) included in this recall should stop using the product and contact McNeil for instructions on a refund or replacement.
In November 2009, 5 lots of this product were recalled due to consumer reports of an unusual moldy, musty, or mildew-like odor that was associated with nausea, stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhea. The odor is caused by the presence of a chemical 2,4,6-tribromoanisole, believed to be the breakdown of a chemical used to treat wooden pallets that transport and store packaging materials. The health effects of this compound have not been well studied, and to date all of the observed events reported to McNeil were temporary and non-serious.

Lung Disorders/Using Inhalers properly

2009-12-10T17:30:00.003-05:00

Good Afternoon to everyone here at "Welcome To My Little Corner Of The World"

Hopefully everyone had a wonderful "Thanksgiving" I sure did ! Saturday Dec.12th. some of us will be celebrating "Hanukkah", and on Dec.25th some of us will be celebrating "Christmas" ! and then we have "Kwanzaa on Dec. 26th. "Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to Everyone !

See below for great information I received today from "John Hopkins University" regards to using Inhalers properly.

(800) 829-0422http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com/?ET=johnshopkins_blog:e34617:437099a:&st=email Johns Hopkins Health Bookstore Email this to a friend
COPD Patients: Take a Deep Breath
Proper technique is the key to benefiting from dry powder inhalers (DPIs) that treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. But data presented at the annual meeting of the American College of Chest Physicians suggest that many patients with COPD can't or don't know how to use their inhalers properly.
Compared with aerosol metered dose inhalers, DPIs are considered "user-friendly." They don't require coordination between breathing in and squeezing the inhaler to release medication, and DPIs rely on your breath rather than chemical propellants to get the COPD medicine into your lungs.
But using DPIs requires a measured, forceful inhalation to ensure that the powdered COPD medication gets from the inhaler to deep in your lungs. If you inhale too quickly, the powder ends up at the back of your throat; if you breathe too slowly or too gently, it doesn't go anywhere; and if you accidentally exhale, the powder might get blown away.
Aerosol metered dose inhalers, such as albuterol and ipratropium, give fast relief during acute respiratory attacks, but most DPIs are prescribed to control COPD symptoms. If you are not using your DPI properly, your COPD can progress, or you may frequently experience acute COPD episodes that require hospitalization.
Researchers from Offenburg Hospital in Germany reported that 32% of 224 patients made mistakes using their DPIs that prevented them from getting the right dose of medication. Errors were most common in patients who were over 60 and in people with severe lung obstruction.
Each of the various DPIs works differently. Diskus models contain several weeks' worth of individual doses. Other DPIs look more like traditional tube inhalers and might contain individual doses or need to be loaded with a medication capsule before each use.
If you're prescribed a DPI for your COPD, ask your doctor both to show you how to use it and then to watch as you use the DPI yourself. Bring your inhaler to each doctor's visit to double-check your technique. If you are having trouble, your doctor can prescribe a traditional metered dose inhaler. Combining this type of pressurized inhaler with a spacer -- a device that attaches to the inhaler and holds the medication for a few seconds before releasing it into your airways -- can reduce problems with hand-breath coordination.

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HINI Great Info

2009-11-10T16:35:00.002-05:00

Good Afternoon to all my friends here at "Welcome To My Little Corner of The World"

I apologize for the delay in keeping you all in touch on what's been going on with me, especially since we moved from the "Smokey Apartment" we are now settled in with a lovely fresh apartment what a delight! Altho it was stressful we got thru it with determination and lots of friends to help move.

Because of the news about the H1N1 and Flu going on this time of year I have included the following article which is of great interest which was sent to me from a dear friend, Thanks Pat

Difference between Cold and Swine Flu Symptoms
Symptom
Cold
Swine Flu
Fever
Fever is rare with a cold.
Fever is usually present with the flu in up to 80% of all flu cases. A temperature of 100°F or higher for 3 to 4 days is associated with the flu.
Coughing
A hacking, productive (mucus- producing) cough is often present with a cold.
A non-productive (non-mucus producing) cough is usually present with the flu (sometimes referred to as dry cough).
Aches
Slight body aches and pains can be part of a cold.
Severe aches and pains are common with the flu.
Stuffy Nose
Stuffy nose is commonly present with a cold and typically resolves spontaneously within a week.
Stuffy nose is not commonly present with the flu.
Chills
Chills are uncommon with a cold.
60% of people who have the flu experience chills.
Tiredness
Tiredness is fairly mild with a cold.
Tiredness is moderate to severe with the flu.
Sneezing
Sneezing is commonly present with a cold.
Sneezing is not common with the flu.
Sudden Symptoms
Cold symptoms tend to develop over a few days.
The flu has a rapid onset within 3-6 hours. The flu hits hard and includes sudden symptoms like high fever, aches and pains.
Headache
A headache is fairly uncommon with a cold.
A headache is very common with the flu, present in 80% of flu cases.
Sore Throat
Sore throat is commonly present with a cold.
Sore throat is not commonly present with the flu.
Chest Discomfort
Chest discomfort is mild to moderate with a cold.
Chest discomfort is often severe with the flu.

Until we meet again my friends
Remember,

Inhale ~~~123
Exhale ~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

Stale Cigarette Smoke !

2009-09-19T07:18:00.003-05:00

Good day to all my friends here at "Welcome To My Little Corner of The World".
I have had quite a busy month since my last blog. I used to live in Lehigh Acres and now currently live again in Fort Myers, Fl. the reason I moved from Leghigh is the drive to work was 45 minutes with the construction starting on the roads I was traveling it would have taken me much longer to commute. I now live 10 min. from my job. Now let me share this with all of you.

When we first interviewed for this apt. the agent showed us a model and then we took a "virtual tour" via the internet, based on what we saw we signed the lease and of course the necessary credit cks were done without a problem. A week later we moved in, I noticed some kind of "smell" I was assured it was the new carpet, padding and painting they had done. A week goes by the same stronger "smell" is still lingering, but now I know it is "Stale Cigarette Smoke" !

It was that from the start only masked by the new carpet and paint job!
Management had called a contracter in to treat the walls and ceilings with a chemical to eliminate the odor, that worked for about a week. I called the office again they had someone else come out with an "Ionizer Machine" which was left on for 6 hours, we had to leave here with our cats and returned 7 hours later. This machine was guaranteed to eliminate the smoke odor , guess what it did for another week and yes the odor is back ! not as bad though. Apparantly the person who lived here before us was a heavy smoker, there's a surprise !

Well now we will have to move again!!!!! Come Nov. 1st. another apt in another building will be available, we will do a walk thru before the folks move out, we are guaranteed that these folks are non smokers !

The agent that leased this apt to us never told us there were smokers on the side of us, upstairs and across the hall ! I had told her in front of her Manager had we known this we Never would have rented here.

Yes, she knew I have a lung disease and am on oxygen I think she was just intent on renting this place and didn't even think about anything else. From what I have learned she is knew to this property I am sure she has learned her lesson, as it is costing the company big bucks to treat this place.

The moral of this story is be realy sure if you are going to rent an apt, house, office that it is or has been smoke free !

Until we meet again my friends remember,

Inhale~~~123
Exhale~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

Coumadin Do's & Dont's

2009-08-06T18:55:00.002-05:00

Hello again it's me !...I thought of something very important with regards to "Coumadin" it is Very, Very Important to be careful of the foods you consume. Vitamin K absorbs a lot of the properties of Coumadin. therefore that would change the amount the Dr. will recommend you to take......sooooo be real careful of what you consume.

You may want to check out Google and search for Vitamin K and Coumadin I am sure you will find a wealth of information. Some examples I have are Margarine is M, Mayonnaise is on the H side. etc....Collard Greens in on teh high side for Vit. K. Any greens are challenging.

Hope this helps!

Remember, until we meet again my friends,
Inhale ~~~123
Exhale ~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

Medications/ Hospitalizations

2009-08-06T14:40:00.004-05:00

Greetings to All here at Welcome To My Little Corner Of The World " It's been a long haul but I got thru it...Positive Mental Attitude and Fortitude.

It started on June 8th. when I saw my Lung Dr. for a check up and she put me in the hospital due to Atrial Fibulations, swollen legs and severe congestion well I was admitted to the hosp. put on an IV drip/Antibiotics, also was getting shots of Lovenox in my stomach to lower my Coumadin level which was at 7 ! pretty dang high that was scary cause the concern was blood clots...always something OK another hurdle we climbed and got to the top once again !

I was discharged on June 12th with instructions to see my Pulmo. Dr. on the 17th. of June and of course I kept that appt. she started me on 15mg of prednisone for a week. ( I don't like that drug does strange things to my thought process).

I got a call from the Pulmo. Dr. to hold off on Coumadin levels toooo high again!
I saw my Primary Dr. on the 25th. she told me to taper off the prednisone do 10mg for one wk, then 5 mg for the next wk. then stop !...ok no problems there...lol

So now the Cardiologist has to be notified of the Atrial Fibulations cause they are pretty severe and he will also monitor the Coumadin levels once I start it again...geez...are ya following me so far ? So here I go another hospitalization this time to the Heart Hospital admitted on July 10th for three days so Dr. can monitor a new drug called "Tikosyn" making sure of no complications in hopes that this drug will slow and or completely stop the A/Fibs..so far so good.

I was going to the Coumadin clinic twice a wk. for levels...now my levels are at 2.1 which is very good I do not have to go back till next Thurs. and if the levels are down my next appt will be in a month !...

Now to keep things interesting I see the primary care Dr. cause I have some sort of eye infection...which is what she called "Cellulitis" and gave me a rx for an antibiotic and advised me to see my eye dr. and of course I did, he assured me that the infection will not interfere with my eyesight...good news !

August 12th. I have an appt with the Pulmo. Dr. then Cardiologist on the 13 th. and the coumadin levels done at the same time, then I am done with Drs. and hospitals for a while.

I know I mentioned in a prev. post about medications and you have to be your own advocate well let me tell you I had to battle with the nurses each day to get the correct meds, I even brought in my list of meds to give them when i was admitted and I was smart enough to keep a copy at the bedside to show the nurse what I should have then she called the Dr. and he agreed I know what I am talking about !

Don't give in folks speak up..I figure because I will be 63 next month they treated my like an elderly person.. barking up the wrong tree!

Hope I didn't rattle on to much also hope this helped.

Until we meet again my friends,
Remember,
Inhale ~~~123
Exhale ~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

2009-07-03T09:05:00.002-05:00

Good Day to all my friends here at Welcome To My Little Corner Of The World !

I was recently contacted by Kat Sanders who is working on her Pharmacist Technitian Certification she asked if I could help her out by posting the following. As you all know I usually post from my personal experiences in this case I made an exception. Another p0st will follow from me with regards to my recent hospitalization. Until we meet again my friends, remember
Inhale ~~~123

Exhale ~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

5 Ways to Improve Your Lung Health

If you’re a sportsperson, athlete, singer, swimmer or in any other field where you are mostly likely to run out of breath, you definitely need to work on improving your lung capacity. In short, you need to exercise and train your lungs just as you would any other part of your body that you want to improve. The best part of training your lungs is that it brings you a host of other benefits and improves other skills as well. So here goes, if you’re looking to improve the health of your lungs, here’s what you need to do:
· Practice underwater breathing: Even if you’re not a swimmer, you can improve the capacity of your lungs by testing your limits under the water. Increase your timings by a few seconds each day and see how your lungs progress. Make sure that you do have someone with you though to prevent anything untoward from happening.
· Get involved in intense cardio workouts: Cardio workouts like jogging, running, cycling, swimming, dancing, aerobics and others are bound to get your heart racing and have you panting for breath. Start out slowly and increase your pace and time as the days go by. The key to improving lung health and capacity is to train every day and increase your intensity every week. If you stick to the same routine day after day, your body becomes used to it and you are stuck on a plateau instead of climbing higher.
· Regulate your breathing: Take some time every day to meditate and regulate your breathing – taking long; deep breaths of clean, fresh air can be invigorating and refreshing to your lungs.
· Say no to tobacco and alcohol: If you want your lungs to be healthy and strong, you must definitely say no to cigarettes, alcohol and other illegal drugs. Smoking is hazardous to health and puts you at a high risk of cancer and other respiratory diseases. Even if you do not smoke, you need to ensure that you don’t hang around or live with people who do, because second-hand smoke can be just as dangerous as inhaling it yourself.
· Maintain an optimal weight and eat the right foods: You need to get your body fit and healthy if you want your lungs to function well. If you’re obese or overweight, you need to first work on bringing down your weight. Besides this, you need to eat foods that are rich in Vitamins C and E and in beta carotene, like fruits and vegetables.
By-line:
This article is written by Kat Sanders, who regularly blogs on the topic of pharmacist technician certification at her blog The Pharm Tech Blog. She welcomes your comments and questions at her email address: katsanders25@gmail.com.

Vitamin D and Asthma

2009-05-31T08:11:00.003-05:00

Issue Date: May 31, 2009

Good Day to all my friends here at "Welcome To My Little Corner Of The World" I found this article today in USA Weekend and thought it was interesting.
Enjoy the day ~~~~

Until we meet again my friends...Remember,

Inhale ~~~123
Exhale ~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

Also: More HealthSmart
Asthma's possible link to vitamin D
Low levels of this nutrient may worsen asthma.
Every day, 40,000 Americans miss work or school and nearly 5,000 visit the ER because of asthma. About 20 million suffer from the disease, and its impact is huge, personally and economically. That's why researchers study asthma's various links, looking for any modifiable associations.
Researchers from Harvard, the Medical University of South Carolina and the Hospital Nacional de Ni–os in San José, Costa Rica, recently studied a link between asthma and vitamin D levels. They studied 616 asthmatic kids, ages 6 to 14, and found that low levels of vitamin D were associated with higher levels of IgE and eosinophils (both are markers of immune activity). Also, the children with higher vitamin D levels were less likely to have required treatment in the year before the evaluation. The data suggest a link between low levels of the vitamin and asthma, adding to the growing body of science showing that vitamin D may be important for more than just bone health.
Further research is needed, but in the meantime, you can increase your intake of vitamin D by getting exposure to sunlight, consuming fortified foods such as milk, and eating fatty fish and fish oils.
Tedd Mitchell, M.D., president and CEO of Dallas' Cooper Clinic, writes HealthSmart every week.

Another mile stone for us !

2009-05-28T18:22:00.002-05:00

I just had to share this will everyone !...Until we meet again my friends remember,
Inhale ~~~123
Exhale ~~~~1234
Breathe Easy,
Sandy

Dear Sandra
On May 27, 2009, Florida's Governor signed into law the bill to increases the cigarette tax with a $1 per pack surcharge! Congratulations to all the tobacco control advocates who have work tirelessly over years to reduce tobacco use by our youth and adults!

American Lung Association in Florida
Final Legislative Report
May 28, 2009

The 2009 Session of the Florida Legislature concluded on Friday, May 7th, one week late. The Legislature adopted a $66.5 billion dollar budget and passed just 238 of the 2369 pieces of legislation filed. The Governor signed the budget on May 27th.

The 2009 Session was dominated by a leadership crisis and extreme fiscal stress. In late January Speaker of the House Ray Sansom resigned his post as Speaker amidst allegations that he illegally obtained state funding for a local college in his district and then benefited from that action by accepting a full-time job at the college. Sansom was indicted in April. Sansom was replaced as Speaker by Rep. Larry Cretul. Cretul was thrust into the job and had to lead a legislature that was delayed and distracted by the ethics scandal.

The nation’s fiscal meltdown was another dominant element of the Session. Conservative Republican legislative leaders confronted the largest revenue decrease since the early 1970s and are constitutionally mandated to pass a balanced state budget. In the last two years the legislature already trimmed more than $6 billion from Florida’s budget. Pledges of “no new taxes” and “living within our means” became harder and harder to maintain. State revenues are shrinking as the need for government services to the economically distressed, and newly-distressed, citizens increases. Even the infusion of Federal Economic Stimulus dollars totaling more than $4 billion to state government still left a projected shortfall of $3.5 billion. Moreover, the timing of the Federal Stimulus dollars flowing to Florida did not neatly coincide with the timing of the state’s appropriations process. Corporate taxes, elimination of business-friendly sales tax exemptions and increased “user” fees were all suggested as means to close Florida’s revenue front. Inserting these factors into the normal challenges facing a state of 18 million citizens and one of the largest economies in the world means that there was no “politics as usual” in the 2009 Session.

Tobacco Surcharge
Against all odds and powerful lobbying efforts by the tobacco industry, retailers and wholesalers, the Legislature increased the current cigarette excise tax with a $1.00 per pack surcharge and imposed a surcharge of 60% of the wholesale price on other tobacco products. The bill also provides regulations for internet and mail order sales that require a two carton minimum purchase and valid proof of age at the time of delivery. It also requires Indian reservations to collect the surcharge on sales to nontribal members. The surcharge is expected to generate close to $1 billion in revenue for the state, and will help fund Medicaid as well as other health care programs and services. The revenues from this surcharge proved to be the linchpin in budget negotiations. The Governor signed the bill into law on May 27th.

Biomedical Research Funding
Initial House and Senate health and human services proposed budgets included reductions in biomedical research funding from general revenue. However, revenues from the tobacco surcharge include a major policy shift in this area.

House and Senate budget negotiators agreed to increases in the biomedical research program. Five percent of the tobacco surcharge revenue, up to $50 million will be dedicated to the Jim and Esther King and Bankhead-Coley Biomedical Research Programs will each receiving approximately $25 million this year.

Comprehensive Tobacco Control Education and Use Prevention Program
The budget includes $63,841,232 for the tobacco control program and is allocated as follows:
Four Staff positions $ 300,583
State & Community Interventions 10,927,545
State & Community Interventions (AHEC) 6,000,000
Health Communications Interventions 20,613,744
Cessation Interventions 11,831,565
Cessation Interventions (AHEC) 4,000,000
Surveillance & Evaluation 5,376,317
Administration & Management 2,791,478

Also, the Legislature allowed $2,000,000 from unexpended funds for last year’s Fixed Capitol Outlay to be used to provide nicotine replacement therapy.

###

Germs, Germs, Germs ~~~

2009-05-20T14:48:00.002-05:00

Good Afternoon to all my friends here at "Welcome To My Little Corner Of The World"

Here we are again "Flu Season" is here, yes I know I posted about this before but, think about this, how many times have we been to the grocery store and made sure we used those little sanitary wipes most stores supply by the carriages and wiped down the handle before we touch it I know I have. I open doors with a wipe unless of course if it is automated.

Well how about pumping gas hmmmmm....same rule applies Please use those sanitized Wipes & wipe off that gas pump~~~~how many people before you have touched it..

We all have to be so very careful, some one once said to me, Sandy aren't over doing it..I replied it's like this I have a disease which will not go away and I do not want to aggravate it by being careless their reply..oh I never thought about that...now it makes sense...As I have said before my friends..".Sick Lungs Don't Show" The more we spread the word more folks will understand how we feel.

So until we meet again my friends remember,

Inhale~~~123
Exhale~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy
t

Helpful Hints/Living with COPD

2009-05-16T08:54:00.002-05:00

Good Morning to all my friends here at "Welcome To My Little Corner Of The World" In a previous post I mentioned a few helpful hints to make our daily tasks easier well a friend of mine
forwarded the following information to me and I wanted to share it with everyone.

Until we meet again my friends remember,

Inhale ~~~123
Exhale ~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

Johns Hopkins Health Alerts: Lung Disorders Conserving Energy When You Have COPD If you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), you know that going about your daily routine can be exhausting. Even though activities such as bathing, grooming, and dressing require a great deal of energy,careful planning can help you get through these tasks more quickly and with less effort. Here's some straight-talking advice from Johns Hopkins. ________________________________If you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), you know that going about your daily routine can be exhausting. Even though activities such as bathing, grooming, and dressing require a great deal of energy, careful planning can help you get through these tasks more quickly and with less effort. Here's some straight-talking advice from Johns Hopkins.First, plan to bathe, groom, and dress at times when you're feeling most energetic. Second, gather all the supplies you will need before you start. Bathing with COPD* Instead of standing in the shower, use a bath stool or take baths. * Because excess humidity can make it tougher to breathe with COPD, use warm water rather than hot, leave the bathroom door open,turn on exhaust fans, and open a window whenever possible. * If washing your hair in the shower, tub, or sink is difficult, ask someone else to do it for you. * Using a long-handled brush or sponge can eliminate reaching to wash your back and feet.* If you rely on oxygen for your COPD, you can still use it while in the tub or shower -- just drape the tube over the shower rod or side of the tub. * Dry off by wearing a long terry cloth robe and blotting rather than using a towel to rub yourself dry -- it takes less effort. Grooming with COPD * Choose a simple hairstyle that doesn't require extensive blow drying or styling.* Conserve energy by sitting in front of a low mirror when shaving or applying makeup, rather than standing bent over the bathroom sink. * Avoid products that are aerosol's or heavily scented,which will irritate the lungs. * Perfumes and colognes may also make it more difficult for you to breathe with COPD, so avoid using these products. Dressing with COPD * Keep your clothes in places that don't require you to bend or reach.* If you're most energetic in the evenings, plan ahead and lay out tomorrow's clothes the night before. * Avoid tight-fitting clothing that can make breathing difficult. For example, men can wear suspenders instead of belts, and women can wear camisoles or sports bras instead of regular bras. * Don't wear socks or stockings with elastic bands, since they can restrict circulation. (Support hosiery recommended by your doctor is the exception.) * Slip-on shoes mean you don't have to bend over to tie shoelaces. A long shoehorn can also make it easier to put shoes on. * To conserve energy with COPD, stay seated as long as possible while dressing, and dress your lower half first, as it is usually more difficult. Putting your underwear inside your pants and pulling both on together may be helpful as well. Johns Hopkins White Papers Logo<http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com/images/spacer.gif>

Smoking is a DRAG !

2009-05-07T19:19:00.003-05:00

Hello to all my friends here at "Welcome To My Little Corner Of The World"...in fact I just may rename it to "Our Little Corner Of The World"...let me know what you think ok...

Now for this post I mentioned in an earlier post about the "Relay For Life" that I could not attend well a co-worker sent me these pictures which show a mutual friend dressed as a "Drag Queen"...now think of this.. like I used to.....drag on a cigarette and you will get the picture...see above: OK now you get the picture ! "Smoking Is A Drag!" This gal was awesome in her presentation of the "Drag Queen" I just wish more folks would follow her lead !

It is thru folks like Linda and her advocasy against cigarette smoking makes our lives much better and our air easier to breathe...Thank You Linda !

Now remember my friends until we meet again...

Inhale ~~~123

Exhale ~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

PFT Results

2009-05-04T18:52:00.002-05:00

Welcome to all my friends here at "Welcome To My Little Corner Of The World" In case you did not know we have 3 cases of Swine Flu here in Fl0rida and I have been assured by my Pulmonologist today that I should continue doing what I have been doing...stay away from crowds, avoid sick people and wash, wash, your hands. Also when you sneeze, sneeze into your arm and if you use a tissue throw it away right away ! Then wash your hands to the tune of "Happy Birthday To Me," repeat 4 times. I also use disposable gloves going anywhere, opening doors pressing buttons on an elevator etc...sure does make a difference. Then I toss them out.

Now for the update on my PFT today the Dr. showed me the results and the chart showed what I thought was an increase in my lung capacity..wrong ! it showed how much "Stale Air" i have in my lungs...sooooo PLB is a must to help get that stale (trapped air) out! Continue the O2 24/7
As long as I can get up and breathe it is going to be a great day !

I have been referred to a program to start Pulmonary Rehab. I am looking forward to that When I was first diagnosed with COPD while living in New Hampshire I went thru that program and let me tell you it is the best program ever to help those of us with this Lung Disease I thoroughly applaud it.

One more thing while I was having the PFT it came time for me to have the 2nd part which included a "Breathing Treatment" to include Albuterol to open my airways now, the Therapist opened the bag which held the tube and mouth piece and removed it and handed it to me with the med. in it...I said why aren't you wearing gloves he replied my hands are clean I replied I dont know that..you should be wearing gloves he did not reply.

I brought this to the attention to the nurse she said she would look into it...

So...until we meet again my friends,
Remember,

Inhale ~~~123
Exhale~~~~1234

2009-05-03T20:06:00.002-05:00

Third swine flu case confirmed in Florida (see VIDEOS, INTER ACTIVES, PHOTO GALLERY, TRAVEL WARNING, SPECIAL SECTION)Comments 3 Recommend 0
May 03, 2009 11:24:00 AM
The Associated Press
TALLAHASSEE — A 14-year-old Mexican girl visiting central Florida is the state's third confirmed case of swine flu, health officials said Sunday.
The girl has returned to Mexico, according to Florida's Department of Health.
She has fully recovered and did not spread the swine flu to her family, Orange County Health Director Kevin Sher in told WFTV-TV in Orlando.
"She stayed in her room, wore a mask and took the Tami flu," an anti-flu drug, Sher in said.
A message left Sunday by The Associated Press for an Orange County spokeswoman was not immediately returned.
Florida's first two cases of swine flu were confirmed on Friday: an 11-year-old in Lee County and a high school student in Broward County.
In addition to the three confirmed cases, state health officials said Sunday there were 15 probable cases of swine flu across the state: one each in Alachua, Pinellas, Indian River, Okeechobee, Lee and Clay counties, two each in Palm Beach and Miami-Dade counties and five in Hillsborough County.
Two charter schools in Miami-Dade County will be closed Monday because a student was found to have a probable case of swine flu.
School district spokesman John Schuster says Doral Academy Charter Middle School and Doral Academy Charter High School were ordered closed after it was found that a middle school student possibly had the disease.
Schuster says the high school was order closed as well because the student may have had access to the high school.
Schuster says that when the schools will reopen will depend on test results from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About 1,800 students attend the two schools.

At a glance: The latest on swine flu
Click here for newly released raw video of pig farmers clashing with police in the Middle East
Click here for a video update of the U.S. tally
Key developments on swine flu outbreaks, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organization, and government officials:
— Deaths: 19 confirmed in Mexico and one confirmed in U.S., a 21-month-old boy from Mexico who died in Texas.
— Confirmed sickened worldwide, 872: 506 in Mexico; 197 in U.S.; 85 in Canada; 40 in Spain; 16 in Britain; eight in Germany; four in New Zealand; two in Italy, France, Israel, and South Korea; one each in Colombia; Costa Rica, Ireland, Switzerland, Austria, Hong Kong, Denmark and the Netherlands.
— Colombia reports South America's first confirmed case of swine flu on Sunday — a day after Costa Rica reports the first case in Central America.
— Countries reporting new cases Sunday — Spain, Germany, Britain, Italy and Columbia.
— Spain becomes hardest-hit nation in Europe with 40 cases, mostly patients in the southern region of Andalusia and five in northeastern Catalan region.
— New case in Britain is Scottish man who recently traveled to Texas but not Mexico, health chief says.
— Two new cases in Germany involve a married couple on same flight as a woman who got swine flu after visiting Mexico.
— Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says about a third of confirmed U.S. cases are people who had been to Mexico and likely picked up the infection there.
— Hong Kong orders the week-long quarantine of downtown hotel where a Mexican tourist had swine flu, trapping 350 guests and employees inside. The tourist was in stable condition Sunday.
— Mexico orders all nonessential government and private businesses to shut down for five days. All 176 weekend soccer games in Mexico are closed to fans.
— China quarantines over 70 Mexican travelers in hospitals and hotels even though they have no symptoms, sparking outrage from Mexico, which calls the move discriminatory and urges Mexicans not to travel to China.
— U.S. confirmed cases: New York 50; Texas 28; California 24; Arizona 17; South Carolina 13; Delaware 10; Massachusetts eight; New Jersey seven; Maine six; three in Wisconsin, Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois; two in Kansas, Colorado, Virginia, Michigan, Missouri, Connecticut and Florida. One each in New Hampshire, Utah, Rhode Island, Iowa, Kentucky, Minnesota, Nebraska and Nevada.
— More than 430 U.S. schools have closed, affecting about 245,000 children in 18 states.
— World Health Organization says slaughtering pigs unnecessary because virus is being spread through humans, and it says a swine herd in Alberta likely was infected by a farm worker who returned from Mexico.
— Three wild boars at Baghdad's zoo are killed because of swine flu fears even though Iraq has no documented cases of swine flu. Egypt earlier ordered the slaughter of all the country's 300,000 pigs.
— U.S. Meat Export Federation says U.S. pork exports have dropped about 10 percent since the swine flu scare started.
FYI...... I called the hot line tonite and they told me to do whatever we do for the "regular Flu" wash your hands using the "Birthday Song" stay away from crowds and be extra careful of people sneezing.

Hope this info. is helpful...

Until we meet again my friends remember,
Inhale~~~ 123
Exhale ~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

Last updated 5/3/09 7:41 p.m. CDT
See archived 'News' stories »
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Using Oxygen Safely

2009-04-19T09:43:00.002-05:00

Good day to everyone here at "Welcome To My Little Corner Of The World" Hope everyone is having a good day. I was surfing the internet looking for information of the usage of Oxygen therapy and found some interesting facts of which I have pasted below for your information. Trust this will enlighten you as well as it did me.

Oxygen is safe to use, in the right conditions. If you follow these guidelines, you will have a safe environment in which to use your oxygen.
Oxygen will not explode or burn, but it will cause things that are burning, to burn hotter and faster. Because of this, when storing or using your oxygen, you should keep it at least 10 feet from open flames, space heaters, large windows or any other source of heat.
If you are cooking while wearing oxygen, you can:
Secure the cannula over the ears and behind the head, instead of under the chin.
Secure the tubing to the side of your clothing with a large safety pin (making sure not to puncture the tubing). This will keep the tubing away from the heat source.
Never grease or oil oxygen equipment. Grease and oil are flammable materials, and are contained in hand lotions, hair lubricants and Vaseline. Aerosol sprays, such as hairspray are also flammable, and should not be used near oxygen equipment.
Do not permit smoking in the same room as your oxygen equipment. You can place a "No Smoking" sign on the door of your residence. You may be in a large room (such as a restaurant) where smoking is permitted, without being at risk.
Do not place your concentrator in a small area. The extra heat generated by your concentrator could damage the unit and/or other materials if placed in a small area. Be sure that the unit is well ventilated and protected from being knocked over.
Never use oil-based face creams, a hair dryer or an electric razor while using your oxygen. It is possible for the appliance to spark, causing the oxygen and face cream to ignite, resulting in burns on your face. Always use water-based cosmetics or creams.

Until we meet again my friends Remember,

Inhale~~~123

Exhale~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

"Relay For Life"

2009-04-17T16:13:00.002-05:00

Good Afternoon to all my friends here at "Welcome To My Little Corner Of The World"

This weekend sets of the annual "Relay For Life " events everywhere for those you who are not aware of the meaning I have copy/pasted the meaning for your reading pleasure and when I say pleasure it is because of efforts of so many people who participated and brought a smile to someone else. Last year I did the walk and it gave me a very gratifiying feeling that I helped someone. For obvious reasons this year I am not able to participate but, in my heart I will be there.

History of Relay - Celebrating Hope
One person can make a difference. Nowhere is that more evident than with the story of the American Cancer Society Relay For Life, which began in Tacoma, Washington. In the mid-1980s, Dr. Gordy Klatt, a Tacoma colorectal surgeon, wanted to enhance the income of his local American Cancer Society office and to show support for all of his patients who had battled cancer. He decided to personally raise money for the fight by doing something he enjoyed – running marathons.
In May 1985, Dr. Klatt spent a grueling 24 hours circling the track at Baker Stadium at the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma. He ran for more than 83 miles. That first year, nearly 300 of Dr. Klatt's friends, family, and patients watched as he ran and walked the course. Throughout the night, friends donated $25 to run or walk with Dr. Klatt for 30 minutes. His efforts raised $27,000 to fight cancer.
While circling the track those 24 hours, Dr. Klatt thought about how others could take part in his mission to fight cancer. He envisioned a 24-hour team relay event that could raise more money to fight cancer. Over the next few months, he pulled together a small committee to plan the first team relay event, known as the City of Destiny Classic 24-Hour Run Against Cancer.
In 1986, with the help of Pat Flynn – now known as the “Mother of Relay” – 19 teams took part in the first team Relay event on the track at the historic Stadium Bowl and raised $33,000. An indescribable spirit prevailed at the track and in the tents that dotted the infield.

Until we meet again my friends remember,

Inhale ~~~123
Exhale~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

Stephacoculous (sp)Pneumonia

2009-04-13T21:33:00.002-05:00

A heartfelt Hello to all my friends here at "Welcome To My Little Corner Of The World"
So much has happened since my last post that you would not believe !!

Apparently I picked up a cold from someone and for a few days I was ok being on antbiotics and taking it easy then bang ! and I mean BANG ! Sat. April 21st I was on my way to the emergency room..my o2 saturation levels were at 42 % no KIDDING ! my blood gas levels were at 85% Yupper I was a sick lady for an entire week in the hospital and lost about 10 pounds! that's a good thing but not to loose it that way lol ! My biggest gripe as I had said before be PRO ACTIVE in your care and your meds I went head to head with the nurses at the hospital cause they said the Pharmacist said I did not need certain meds ! Now you know I sure did not let that one rest and neither should anyone...speak your mind ! Do Not Let anyone tell you what your meds are and how you should take them.

The Strep Pneumonia has subsided right now and hopefully will stay that way as I always say it could be worse !
We have just celebrated Easter Sunday and remember that our Good Lord gave up his life for us and had risen and we celebrate in unison!

Until my next post my friends,

remember until we meet again,
Breathe Easy,

Inhale ~~~123
Exhale~~~~1234

Sandy

O2 24/7 Wow !

2009-04-04T21:00:00.002-05:00

Hello to all my friends here at "Welcome To My Little Corner of The World" well it's been a while since my last post and let me tell you what ride I have been on ! March 17th. Tues. my favorite Holiday, St. Patrick's Day I went to see my primary care Dr. cause I got a cold , well darn the DR. put me on antibiotics and also nebulizer every 4 hours ! Well each days seemed to get a little worse, well come Saturday the 21st. I was at the ER cause I could not breathe my chest felt like I was under water...dang what an awful feeling that was !
Well the ER person put me right on oxygen it seems my 02 levels dropped to about 88percent !

Then the Dr. and the nurses came in and started IV drips with an antibiotic and some sort of a steroid medication and of course i was admitted !

Now while I was in this "hospital" I had several issues with the nursing staff and dietary....
Seems that the "Pharmacist" at the hospital can tell you what melds you need to have and not need to have...soooooooo I questioned the nurse and asked to speak with the pharmacist in person, needless to say that never happened....my advice...as I have said before do not let anyone dictate what your meds are Speak Up some one will listen ! I know I did and someone did listen!

Now dietary...geez I was on a low salt, diabetic diet...why ? well due to the meds I was on "Salmedrol" (sp) it caused my blood sugar to elevate so therefore i had to receive "Insulin" to offset the sugar level...darn ! as far as the low salt well that's another story, seems the Pharmacist thought due to my meds I should be on a Heart healthy diet what was he thinking !?

Anyway I am home now with Oxygen 24/7 it will take some getting used to but, as I always say it could be worse ! My life has changed and I will need to adjust to such and take one day at a time.

So, until we meet again my friends,
Inhale~~~123
Exhale~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

St. Patrick's Day

2009-03-05T19:49:00.002-05:00

Hello to all my COPD friends sorry for taking so long in writing but so many things have been going on with me so let me share a few things with everyone. I have written about some helpful hints on living with COPD/Emphysema and hope that they have been helpful to all. My latest diagnosis is Scleroderma/Raynauds/ and Sjorugens (sp) well I have learned to accept my latest diagnosis as I said before I can overcome this or at least accept it and learn as much as I can and pass on this information to everyone.
Right now the COPD/Emphysema has become almost passive thanks to the steroids which by the way I am weening off them...and once that happens the swelling in my hands will increase as the "Scleroderma" will take over hopefully this tooo shall pass. !

I do not know what the link is to COPD/Scleroderma I just know that Scleroderma is an Auto Immune Disease as is COPD so until I continue to do more research we are in Limbo.

Scleroderma is the hardining of the skin due to too much Collegan (sp) and can affect some major organs which can include the lungs....NOW let me make this clear, not all of us will have this problem, it is up to our Drs./Specialists to run the necessary test to make the proper diagnosis.

As of today my lungs are happy due to the steroids as I mentioned earlier in this post however, once I come off of the steroids I can only hope for the best, a positive mental attitude will carry us a long way !

Until we meet again my friends remember:

Inhale ~~~123
Exhale ~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

Good News

2009-02-07T10:46:00.002-05:00

Hello to all my friends here at "Welcome To My Little Corner Of The World".

Hope everyone is doing well ! A very good friend of mine sent on some great information that I would like to share with everyone. After many years of struggling to get restaurants and airports smoke free at last it has happened no kidding read below to this news ! Click on the link below and you can choose what ever state you are looking for.

Shortcut to: http://www.smoke-freerestaurants.com/

Until we meet again my friends remember,

Inhale ~~~123

Exhale ~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

Happy Valentines Day !

2009-02-03T20:56:00.002-05:00

Well, here we are almost St. Patricks Day!...Whoooo Hoooo my favorite Holiday! Altho I can not celebrate like I used to..lol I am still happy to get up each and every day and I Thank God for that !
Each day brings a new beginning and with a positive attitude which is what keeps me going as my Dad would say, it could be worse! When I reflect back on my life and look around I realize how fortunate I am to get up each and every day and face a new challenge !

St Valentines Day is approaching and we all need to stop and smell the roses and realize how lucky we are no matter what the circumstances are someone else is out there who is worse off that we are.

I don't mean to complain about my problems but, this latest "Scleroderma" is all connected with an "Auto immune Disease" it does make a difference with my breathing, but.....as long as I do the PLB...Pursed Lip Breathing it sure does make a difference !...keep that in mind it is so IMPORTANT !... So until we meet again my friends,

Remember,
Inhale~~~123
Exhale ~~~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY TO ALL ! LOVE AND LIVE !

The Results Are In !

2009-01-24T10:12:00.002-05:00

Good Morning to all my friends here at "Welcome To My Little Corner of The World".
I finally got the results of the last "culture" good news...Negative for anything to be concerned about., altho I have to use my nebulizer twice a day with a medicine called "Acetylcysteiine" which is supposed to help loosen up the thick junk in my lungs and ease my breathing...time will tell, hopefully it will work.
I have recently been diagnosed with "Schogrens Disease" (sp) What a surprise that was ! from what I have researched and absorbed as much information as possible regarding this disease
It is over growth of collagen and causes your skin to thicken and get hard it can affect your lungs and other major parts of your body as far as I know my lungs are not involved, I thank God for that.

Recently I had a bunch of blood work done I will get the results when I see the RA Dr. this Monday coming, I will post more then. For now all we can do is make the best of what we have to work with and most definitely Keep a POSITIVE attitude that sure has helped me.

So, until we meet again my friends, remember

Inhale~~~123

Exhale~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

Getting There !

2009-01-10T14:05:00.003-05:00

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Happy to Year to all my friends here at "Welcome To My Little Corner Of The World" I have not posted for a while as ou internet provider was down since before Christmas, but once again here we are. ! I hope everyone enjoyed their holidays, hopefully 2009 will bring us all good luck and good health ! My New Year's resolution is to do more exercising.. for some it comes easy and others not so easy so slow and easy wins the race every time and remember most importantly...(PLB) "Pursed Lip Breathing" get all that stale air out. Ok..here is the latest on what is going on with me,remember I had the Bronchoscopy done in early Dec. and the Pulmo. told me he took some cultures, well we got one back and it showed some kind of a fungus was growing in my lungs and he assured me it wasn't cancer we will have to wait till the last culture comes back sometime in January in order to treat it ! I have been so miserable with breathing problems (SOB) I decided to contact my Primary Care Dr.to get some answers sure enough she researched the results of the culture and called in a prescription for me !

I dont understand the terminology for the name of this fungus I am just happy my Primary is going to treat it..it just amazes my that a "PULMONOLOGIST" couldn't start treating this before now !

My advice my friends..DO NOT take anyting sitting down..ask, ask, and ask more questions get more answers I wish I had I could have had some relief by now. I see the Infectious Disease Dr. on the 16th. to get the results of the final culture and of course I will share that information with everyone.

To be continued tune in next week for the update !

Until we meet again my friends,

Remember,

Inhale~~~123

Exhale ~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

Almost Final Results !

2008-12-19T19:52:00.001-05:00

Hello to all my friends here at "Welcome To My Little Corner Of The World" so nice to see you all here ! Here we are again I am not toooo sure of the results of all these tests that were done. Accoring to the Pulmonologist per a "Certified Letter" I received toay I am being followed for a significant pulmonary condition, and also and obstructive lung disease with some element of fibrosis !

Additional testing will be ordered to see if it is progressive !...Wow ! The Pulmo Dr. also said I had some sort of a fungus growing in my lungs ! How to treat this, we have to wait till the other cultures come back to determine the proper treatment!

I went to see an "Infectious Disease Doctor" and based on the info he received from the Lung Dr. I have "Interstitial Lung Disease ", Scleroderma (sp) and COPD...and to top if off "Raynaud's Syndrome... so what to do next ? hmmmmm as my Dad would say ....It could be worse" but I gotta tell you all...it sure is a mouthfull ! What to do.....Research, Research and see what I can come up with and then ask more and more questions next visit !

I have lost weight due to the "Thrush" in my mouth and finally the "Infectious Disease Dr" prescribed a lozenge for me called "CLOTRIMAZOLE 10 MG Three times a day" and it sure has helped finally ! A tablet to put on your tongue and let it dissolve and it really works! Hopefully this will help some one else.

Not much more going on here my friends, hope you all are well and trust this information will help some one out there.

Until we meet again my friends,
Remember,

Inhale ~~~123
Exhale ~~~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

Bronchoscopy Procedure 12/05/08

2008-12-06T19:59:00.003-05:00

Good Evening my friends hope you all are doing well ! just a little note on my prior post I stated the picture I took on Thanksgiving Morning was a picture of the "Sunset" duh ! It should have said "Sunrise" and I had not had any egg nog at the time of that writing !

On another note....I had the Bronchoscopy done this past Friday the 5Th. wow what an experience that was, I arrived at the hospital at 5:15 am to get prepped and of course they could not get the IV in my veins did not want to cooperate they finally had to call the "IV Team, bingo first shot IV in. my wrist .of course the next time was to put it in my hand...no, no, no, not a happening thing especially with the Rheumatoid Arthritis which was swollen to the hilt !

The nurse gave me a shot to relax me, then the the Respiratory Therapist said, ok Sandy relax I am going to spray your nose to numb your throat, I was ok with that, then he said ok I am going to swab your nostrils with a gel and then insert this Q tip to see which side will be the best for the Dr. to insert the instrument to see into your lungs...well by then I was bye, bye....Then I remember waking up in recovery and heard the Nurse saying "Sandy" breathe deep, guess my o2 dropped to below 86 ! of course they then, then gave me 02, then called my pulmonologist to tell how what was going on, he ordered a Breathing Treatment with Albuterol...well the therapist came with the mask put it on my face and walked away !

I may be old fashioned but, what ever happened to Hi my name is ! How are you today, I am going to give you breathing treatment ordered by your Dr.

When the treatment was done I took of the mask and called to the nurse ! Lesson learned my friends ask a bunch of questions, make sure you know each and every move these folks are going to do when it comes to your personal care. I am just recovering from the anesthesia dang it not sure how much of that stuff they gave me, perhaps the reason for my 02 level to drop so low.

From what I understand the Pulmonologist took several samples to have analyzed and I should get the scoop on the 12Th. of this month, I am trying to be optimistic as it is my Sisters birthday

and I know she is watching over me. The message today my friends is be optimistic, ask as many questions as possible, oh one other item, I am still having a big problem with "Thrush" I told the Pulmo. Dr. Fri. am...no reply from him so time will tell , I will see what happens on the 12Th.

Until then my friends, remember,

Inhale~~~123
Exhale~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

Recoup after Thanksfiving

2008-12-02T20:09:00.003-05:00

Just look at what we have to be "Thankful For" I took this picture on Thanksgiving morning Sunset on the Lake, oh my God how beautiful is that !

I did not over eat I was very careful to eat slow and chew slowly and of course our guests from Germany were so enthralled with our Celebration as in Germany they do not have Thanksgiving and when I said Grace before dinner they were just grateful to share our holiday with them. The day was wonderful and I was tired from cleaning up after dinner but, I paced myself and that's what we have to do take a deep breath in and exhale...Pursed Lip Breathing...it really works ! Now I have a favor to ask of all of my freinds...I heard of a young lady who is in a desperate situation her medicaid will end soon and she is on 02 all the time does anyone know of anyplace she can get any type of assistance ? If you do please reply and I will surely send the info on to her.

We are a close knit family and if someone needs assistance we will be there.

Until we meet again my friends,

Remember,

Inhale ~~~ 123

Exhale ~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-24T21:14:00.002-05:00

Hello to all my COPD friends and those who are just friends ! Well here we are it's almost Thanksgiving and boy do I have a lot to be Thankful for, I am Thankful for each and every day that the good Lord has given me another day to wake up and smell the roses!...I know a lot of us have good days and bad days and we make the best of them dont we ! As the Thanksgiving Holiday approaches we need to remember to eat small amounts, chew slowly and enjoy the festivities !

Let me share this with all of you for a moment, I am scheduled to have a Broncoscopy done on Dec.5th. as well as a Biopsy of my lungs and hopefully the outcome will be a positive one in the meantime I sure am going to enjoy my Thanksgiving dinner with family and friends !

So until we meet again my friends, eat slow, digest your food breathe easy and enjoy ! Happy Thanksgiving !

Remember,

Inhale~~~ 123
Exhale~~~1234

Cool Air and Cigarette Smoke in Florida !

2008-11-20T21:47:00.002-05:00

Good evening my friends ! Another day has gone by, my goodness where do the days go ?
Anyway here in Florida the mornings have been quite chilly...brrrrrrr 40's and 50's some of you might say..hahahaha but I tell you what it is cold here...! In the afternoon it sure does get warmer and of course I open my car windows on the way home from work....yup...cigarette smoke from the car in front of me ! What to do ? Close my windows and put on the a/c.....geez I know smokers have their rights and dang it so don't WE ! 2nd hand smoke is one of the biggest, the biggest cause of cancer in this country ! Somehow we need to spread the word and educate everyone on the nasty, nasty side affects of 2nd. smoke !

Someone in my neighborhood was burning a wood stove and my cats were on the porch and YES I sure did bring them in cause they are sooooo vulnerable to 2nd hand smoke just as we are !

So my dear friends...please be careful of the 2nd hand smoke..I usually carry a "dust mask" with me or an "air filtered mask" just in care I encounter some one who is smoking or just diesel fuel fumes...from the cars and trucks passing by....

So, till we meet again my friends,
Remember,

Inhale~~~123
Exhale ~~~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

The Latest Update

2008-11-01T19:03:00.003-05:00

Hello to all my friends...well this is the latest diagnosis for me....the results of all the tests showed Sclerderma ! below is the explanation. Now in order to be sure there that all is well I have to have a Broncospity (sp) done but, I have a very bad cold and have to wail till that clears up also have to get an ok from the Cardiologist to have the test done, this is all so complicated !

I can sure relate to the following article, not sure why this happened it all happened so fast but apparantly the big guy in the sky has a reason for me.

Return to Main Menu
June is National Scleroderma Awareness Monthby Cindy Abole Public Relations Imagine the difficulty of assembling a 500-piece jigsaw puzzle with only a handful of pieces. Or the challenge of playing a song composition on the piano from sheet music that has only a few notes.
These fractured feelings of incompleteness, frustration and uncertainty can also be shared by a person living with scleroderma.
For more than two centuries, the earliest cases of scleroderma defied both an explanation and cure. Even today, it is still misunderstood as much as its symptoms wax and wane among its 300,000 sufferers within the United States. Once thought of as a rare condition, scleroderma is diagnosed in more people today than muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis or cystic fibrosis.
But through the combined efforts of a local support group, its energetic, young president and a specialized team of MUSC scientists and experts, these impassioned advocates hope to change the public’s perception about scleroderma forever.
“There have already been many significant advances with scleroderma,” said Richard Silver, professor and director, Division of Rheumatology and Immunology. “The ability to provide early diagnosis for the disease has improved the public’s perception of scleroderma sufferers within these past 20 years.”
Scleroderma is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting the body’s connective tissue. Physically, it’s a build-up of scar tissue that affects a person’s skin and internal organs. The disease is characterized by discolored patchy skin, swelling, joint and muscle pain, shortness of breath, swallowing difficulties and a host of other problems. Its cause and cure are still unknown.
The Palmetto Chapter of the Scleroderma Foundation began as a support group for patients, their families and caregivers, plus other newly diagnosed individuals. Today, it continues to function as a safe haven for members to relate, communicate and share research news, increase public awareness and champion fund-raising efforts for research and other outreach.
“For me, finding out that my mother and family were not alone in fighting this disease was such a burden lifted off my shoulders,” said Rosemary Brezden, president of the Palmetto Chapter of the Scleroderma Foundation. “I hope that this chapter gives that gift to others.”
The disease is so highly individualized that it can affect one person differently from another. Research shows that scleroderma can follow one of two paths. It can progress to become an acute, life-threatening condition or it can follow an extremely slow course.
As the disease progresses, patients usually suffer from a multitude of systemic conditions which affect the lungs, heart, kidney and digestive system. Like many chronic autoimmune diseases, scleroderma affects women more than men, especially African American women. Of the major complications associated with the disease, pulmonary fibrosis and malignant hypertension are leading causes of death among most scleroderma victims.
For physicians, their challenge continues to focus on early identification and diagnosis of symptoms that are usually non-specific. Today, progressive advances in research and better experience with the disease have allowed specialists to apply a team-based approach brand to care—enlisting services of other medical specialists, including dermatologists, rheuma-tologists or pulmonologists—as the disease progresses within patients.
“There’s much research work going on with this disease in the Division of Rheumatology and Immunology,” Silver said. “We’re hoping that some of the breakthroughs we’ve already made for arthritis will spill over for scleroderma, as well.”
MUSC has built a sturdy foothold for scleroderma research within the past 30 years. MUSC ranks comparably with Boston, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Los Angeles as a specialty scleroderma research and treatment center.
Brezden, whose mother, Jean, was diagnosed with Scleroderma almost 30 years ago, has been her mother’s advocate and caregiver. Brezden remembers attending a scleroderma chapter meeting in Georgetown with her mother only a few years ago.
“I remember my mother being very hesitant to attend,” Brezden said. “The thought of meeting others with the same chronic disease in different stages made her more fearful.”
For localized scleroderma, the prognosis for a normal life is very positive. In a study for the disease, reports favor a 10-year survival rate after diagnosis measuring about 85 percent.
The group had reached its own pivotal point in activity and was considering disbanding because of weak participation and leadership. It wasn’t long until Brezden took the reigns as chapter president and sought plans to move the Palmetto Chapter back to Charleston to accommodate the high concentration of members living in West Ashley, Summerville and Goose Creek.
“I immediately fell in love with these people,” said Brezden, describing her initial reaction of seeing a wide example of the disease manifested within others. “Seeing their comfortable interaction with everyone helped me to realize their basic need for total acceptance and affirmation amongst themselves. From that point on, I was convinced that this is where mom and I needed to be.”
Brezden has led the charge as a busy advocate for scleroderma around the Lowcountry and throughout the state. She’s rekindled the interests and participation of its 40 members by setting goals to promote better education and other awareness issues. The group also maintains an Internet website, which features a quarterly newsletter and other resources to communicate news to members and people seeking information.
The group has staffed an information booth at the Coastal Carolina Fair since 1998. Through June’s celebration of National Scleroderma Awareness month, the group has contracted an outdoor billboard campaign around the Tri-county area to reinforce its message and presence.
“People need to realize that MUSC is on the cutting edge of key research and treatment with this disease,” Brezden said. “I wish there was a way to help raise research dollars and share one pot in a circular funding effort.”
Last year, the chapter sponsored a workshop featuring MUSC chief rheumatologist Silver, who shared the latest research news and answered questions following his participation at a national scleroderma conference in San Diego.
“All of us are very hopeful people,” Brezden said. “Even if Dr. Silver and other specialists find one small thing today, we look at it as something big. You never know, it could be a key to finding a cure for scleroderma tomorrow.”
MUSC fertile ground for researchby Cindy Abole Public Relations The Lowcountry research arena for scleroderma has grown from fertile ground starting with former rheumatology chair and physician E. Carwile LeRoy’s discovery linking the disease and collagen overproduction. Division of Rheumatology and Immunology Chair Richard Silver, M.D., has enlisted the field’s best researchers to study this disease. Included on Silver’s team are molecular biologist Maria Trojanowska, Ph.D., and Gary Gilkeson, M.D., a rheumatologist who specializes in lupus research.
Trojanowska and her team have focused on various aspects of collagen research begun by LeRoy. She cites many reasons why progress in this area of research has been at a crawl. The problem has only recently been attributed to the molecular level, she said.
“Today, there are better tools available, and with the explosion of new information from the Human Genome Project, it’s now only a matter of who’s going to get there first,” Trojanowska said. Her study of human fibroblasts from scleroderma patients has yielded good results. Fibroblasts are the cells in the human skin responsible for producing collagen.
“Just having a better understanding of how collagen is produced will enable scientists to design better drugs to block its excessive formation in scleroderma patients,” Silver said.
Research teams like Dr. Marie Trojanowska of MUSC's Division Rheumatology and Immunology have progressed in reearch related to scleroderma. Bottom row from left: Jodi Gore, Trojanowska, Asia Czuwara-Ladykowska. Top row from left: Gosia Markiewicz, Madoka Sato and Daniel Shegogue.
Trojanowska is studying how fibroblasts regulate the connective tissue also found in the production of most internal organs. She suspects the problem may lie on a molecular level, which involves a miscommunication or signaling problem in the production and secretion of collagen.
“Too much collagen production can disrupt the delicate architecture of any internal organ,” Trojanowska said. “Overproduction yields to poor organ function.”
Gilkeson and his crew of 13 researchers are hoping to discover something linking genetic and environmental interactions with lupus and scleroderma, two autoimmune diseases akin to one another. Both diseases disproportionately affect African American women of child-bearing age.
“We’re working with both lab and clinical research to develop new therapies that will help us understand the cause and treatment of lupus that are not as toxic or non-specific,” Gilkeson said.
“We’re hoping that through new industry-sponsored drug treatment programs, independent studies that follow lupus patients and basic bench side research, we’ll be successful in tackling new knowledge of both diseases.”
Gilkeson is collaborating with Silver, Barbara Tilley, Ph.D., who chairs the Department of Biometry and Epidemiology and Marc Silverstein, M.D., director of MUSC’s Center for Health Care Research, to establish plans for a Lupus and Scleroderma Research Center at MUSC.
In 1998, scleroderma research received a generous financial boost when the Division of Rheumatology and Immunology received more than $1 million to help fund scleroderma research efforts at MUSC. The donation was made through the estate of Reeva E. Donoghue, whose daughter suffered from scleroderma, and was treated at MUSC in 1983 and 1985.
“The local Palmetto Chapter of the Scleroderma Foundation continues to do a terrific job in terms of fund-raising and public awareness,” Silver said. “Helping members and other individuals obtain information through the Internet and other resources has been extremely helpful in guiding them to understand this disease.”
Caring mother remembered for smile, courageJocelyn Washington dreamed of becoming a nurse to serve and care for others. She made it, becoming a loving daughter and mother of her two children, Lauren, 3 and Terrence, 10.
Edith Edwards, with grandchildren, Lauren, 3 and Terrence, 10, remember Jocelyn Washington who died of scleroderma last July.
During the day, she extended that same caring attitude and trademark smile to countless faces where she worked delivering food trays to patients at MUSC Medical Center.
For four years, she lived and struggled with scleroderma until her untimely death last July.
“Jocelyn was a real blessing in my life,” said Edith Edwards of her 33-year old daughter. “She was a devoted mother, daughter and my best friend. I didn't know that I'd lose her so soon.”
Washington was diagnosed with the disease in 1996. At the time, she was also pregnant, and carrying her second child. She had never heard of scleroderma.
Washington led a busy life. During the day, she was a patient services employee with MUSC's Dietetic Services. Her job was physically demanding transporting 400-pound food carts throughout the hospital. She delivered meal trays—her most favorite part of the job since she enjoyed interacting with patients. According to family and friends, Washington was always a person who enjoyed meeting people.
Following her diagnosis, a family friend had suggested that they learn more about the disease through the Palmetto Chapter of the Scleroderma Foundation. To Washington's surprise, she was one of two local African American women in the group diagnosed with the disease.
“I think just being around others and seeing changes with people really helped Jocelyn accept and deal with the disease,” said Edwards, who herself suffers from severe rheumatoid arthritis. “Just knowing its changes and severity allowed her to open up and talk more about it.”
These changes that Edwards referred to were the tell-tale skin splotches and discoloration throughout the body, difficulty breathing, joint pain and swelling and taut skin that would often crack, bleed and blister —all symptoms of the disease manifesting itself through its victims.
Eventually, the disease took its toll, draining Washington of energy and spirit. Last November, she was forced to quit work because she became too weak and tired to continue. Even dedicated co-workers tried to lend a hand as she struggled to perform her job. Six months later, it was the disease that won out in the end.
“Losing Jocelyn was one of our group's low points,” said Rosemary Brezden, an MUSC pharmacist and president of the Palmetto Chapter of the Scleroderma Foundation. “The loss was very tragic to everyone. When we lose someone, somehow the group seems to realize that it could be me.”
Today, Edwards continues to speak highly of the group and the physicians who cared for her daughter. When she can, she attends meetings and is an active advocate for the group's role in the community and the disease.
“The chapter is like family,” Edwards said. “They let me know early on that they felt my pain and that my loss was their loss, too. In the months after Joyce's death, they also learned how to cheer me. They did the same with Joyce as she battled with the disease.”
When asked if physicians and researchers were making a difference in honing in on a cure for scleroderma, her reaction was at least hopeful.
“I feel sure that a cure for the disease will be found,” Edwards responded. “Judging by the care given to my daughter by physicians and staff, I'm hoping a discovery will be made at least during my granddaughter's lifetime.”

Until we meet again my friends remember:

Inhale ~~~ 123
Exhale~~~~1234

Sandy

Inspire Life Breathe Free Womens Luncheon 10/03

2008-10-04T12:55:00.003-05:00

Good afternoon to everyone! No update to report on the current lung situation I am scheduled to have an Echo Cardiagram done this Tuesday 10/7 with an x-ray of my lungs with special views seems they are still looking at some sort of underlying tissue disease involving the heart and lungs.... time will tell.

I attended my 2nd. annual womens luncheon hosted by the American Lung Association of Florida

and by the way I was asked to speak on living with a lung disease. I shared my little tid bits that help living with COPD/Emphysema....drying with a terry cloth robe instead of using all our energy and breath by using a regular towel, eating slowly, pursed lip breathing, etc. I was very honored to have been invited and to have met some wonderful folks. A young lady spoke of her Mom's battle with Lung Cancer was an emotional story she told. I will add some photos for you to see.

Well today I took my car to the garage to have the battery replaced I was talking with the gal at the desk while paying for the work and a mechanic came in to reception area with a CIGARETTE I panicked...NO go back out I cant breathe that smoke! These are the little things in life that make our life so much more challenging other folks who dont have a lung disease have no clue !

Of course I did not have my mask with me didnt think I needed it I was only going a few miles from the house, next time I go out I will surely have it with me.

The work are of the garage is connected to the office area, it is a family owned business.

The photo I added is of myself, Len Jennings our local Channel 7 New Anchor and of course none other than Carrie D'Angelo, Development coordinator of the Amerian Lung Association of Florida. This gal is awesome in what she does for the ALA she too is living with a lung disease and her zest for life is truly amazing.

I wish you all a good breathing day ! Drop me a line ask me any questions you have, any comments. I promise I will answer.

Until we meet again my friends remember,

Inhale ~~~123

Exhale ~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

It's been a while since my last post

2008-09-19T20:44:00.002-05:00

Hello to all my COPD friends and just friends. I know it's been a while since my last post so here is the scoop for the delay.
As you all know I have been battling this pneumonia thingy for a while well, now it seems that there is something more serious going on with in this complex body of mine.

I have been tested for an auto immune disease know as "Lupus" I had blod work done and the Dr. tells me my auto immune levels are elevated so yesterday I had more blood work done I think this test is to confirm the diagnosis and if so, so be it. Just another hill to climb in the up hill battle that has been laid before me and as with all prior battles this to shall pass and I will overcome ! To be continued.

Well, now the flu season is upon us I sure do plan on getting a flu shot and a pneumonia especaillay with all that is going on. Also, PLEASE, PLEASE be so certain to wash your hands as often as possible that is where the germs settle, then you touch your face, etc...yuk We should all consider the Flu and Pneumonia shots some of us can not get the flu and pneumonis shots some of us can....

I always carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer with me especially for when I walk into a supermarket and grab a grocery cart, the stores usually have a sanitizer near by, but in case they don't be sure to carry your own, oh, one more thing, I was at the grocery store the other day and attempted to use my debit card...and "WOW" the area was so dirty I told the clerk I need to clean off this screen before I can use it, so I took out my wipes and wiped down the screen and also the little black pen they have handy, it may sound really odd, but in my mind it is not we all have to be so careful of so many germs.

Until we meet again my friends remember, as a dear friend of mine told me she uses this technique all the time:

Inhale ~~~123
Exhale ~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

S. O. B.

2008-08-22T20:21:00.004-05:00

Hello all my COPD friends!...well this post this evening is about Shortness of Breath! (S.O.B)

Living in Florida and all the humidity that comes with it does make some days more difficult to breathe...sooooooo I use (P.L.B.) Pursed Lip Breathing WOW is sure does make a difference, it gets rid of all that stale air stuck in our lungs ! For those of you who are not aware what PLB is....pretend you are blowing out candles on a cake...follow this: Inhale at the count of 123....then Exhale at the count of 1234! Go ahead give it a try you will feel better and notice the difference.

I sure have been using it..especially STILL dealing with this pneumonia thingy going on, and it does make a differnce.

Hope this little tid bit of information does help someone.

Until we meet again my friends remember,

Inhale~~123

Exhale~~~1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

The Switch Is On !

2008-08-09T13:12:00.002-05:00

Hope everyone is doing fine on this second Saturday in August, can you believe it just a few months away for the Holidays to roll around again .

I picked up my prescriptions yesterday and on the bag was the following: If you have Asthma or COPD....THE SWITCH IS ON !
CFC albuterol inhalers: BANNED effective 12/31/08

I did some research and here is what I found, hope it helps to understand how we need to use the new inhalers.

What bothers me is that no mention from the Dr's. about the inhalers being discontinued, I was just at the Pulmonologist this week for a checkup on the pneumonia which by the way is still lingering, he told me it is like a big ship making a big turn around it will take a long time for me to heal...at least I am up and about as I always say, it could be worse.

Critical Facts Patients Need to Know
FAIRFAX, Va., May 30 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Millions of asthma
patients and their healthcare providers do not know that at the end of this
year, their life-saving medications will be gone. Today, FDA urged patients
still using chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) albuterol metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) to
switch to alternate hydrofluoroalkane (HFA) inhalers (albuterol and
levalbuterol) before CFCs are completely off the market. As of December 31,
2008, no CFC albuterol inhalers will be manufactured or sold in this country.
CFC is used to propel medication from asthma inhalers into patients'
airways. But it also depletes the earth's ozone layer, so it's being phased
out of medications like inhaled albuterol, one of the top 10 prescriptions
written in the United States. Patients with asthma, COPD and other
respiratory conditions use albuterol at the first sign of symptoms, before
exercise and when experiencing breathing exacerbation's. Alternate inhalers
using HFA as a propellant are replacing CFC albuterol.
"We applaud FDA's efforts to educate patients and medical professionals
about the new HFA inhalers," states Nancy Sander, president and founder of
Allergy & Asthma Network Mothers of Asthmatics (AANMA). "There are critical
differences between CFC and HFA inhalers that patients need to know in order
to use these medications properly."
-- HFA MDIs have a softer spray. Some patients comment that force of the
HFA propellant is not strong enough to "push open" their airways during
an attack. But it is the correct inhalation technique, not the force of
the propellant, that determines how well the medication works. Neither
type of inhaler can push or force airways open.
-- HFA MDIs have different cleaning requirements. HFA MDIs need to be
cleaned more frequently than CFC MDIs. HFAs tend to clog more quickly
than CFCs, preventing medication from reaching patients' airways.
-- HFA MDIs have different priming requirements. Priming (spraying
multiple doses into the air) loads the correct dose of medication
inside the inhaler. Each HFA inhaler has different priming
instructions, which can be quite different from CFC priming.
-- HFA MDIs offer more treatment options. In the past, all brand and
generic albuterol CFC MDIs were virtually identical. Now there are
three uniquely different formulations of albuterol HFA inhalers plus a
levalbuterol HFA inhaler -- each distinctly different from the others.
Some people may find that one HFA inhaler works better for them than
another.
-- HFA MDIs cost more than generic CFC albuterol MDIs. HFA MDIs are not
simply copies of CFC MDIs with new propellants. The inhaler transition
required a complete overhaul of the MDI manufacturing process. No
generic HFA MDIs are currently available. This translates to higher
out-of-pocket expenses for many patients, even those with prescription
drug coverage. Pharmaceutical companies are providing financial
assistance to patients in the form of rebates, discounts and coupons
and patient assistance programs.
"These are lifesaving medications," says Sander. "Patients and medical
professionals need to know that inhalers are changing and have the opportunity
to make the switch in a medically responsible way. Our advice to patients:
Get the facts. Know your options. Make informed choices."
Visit AANMA's MDI Transition Web page at
www.breatherville.org/MDITransition for more information.
Founded in 1985, Allergy & Asthma Network Mothers of Asthmatics is the
leading national nonprofit family organization dedicated to eliminating
suffering and death due to asthma, allergies and related conditions. AANMA's
core areas of expertise are education, advocacy and outreach. Call
800.878.4403 or visit www.breatherville.org.
SOURCE Allergy & Asthma Network Mothers of Asthmatics
Nancy Sander, +1-703-955-6807, or Sandra Fusco-Walker, +1-201-400-8163, both
for Allergy & Asthma Network Mothers of Asthmatics

© Thomson Reuters 2008 All rights reserved
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Until we meet again my friends remember,
Inhale ~~~123
Exhale ~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

GERD/COPD

2008-08-04T12:36:00.002-05:00

Possible association between GERD and COPD?

Thought I would share this article, my Dr. tells me my recent case with Pleuritic Pneumonia had something to do with the acid coming up into my throat and overspilling into my lungs ! Not that I am saying this could happen to everyone, I am sharing my thoughts and experiences with all of you. It would be best to speak to your physician, remember we are all individuals and situations are all different. As far as the infection on my tongue it is still there and will be there for quite some time, so it's soups, pasta and mashed taters for me for a while.

Tuesday October 10, 2006
A recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Florida, Jacksonville, purports that there is an association between acid reflux and a worsening of COPD. The study was small, involving 86 patients. The researchers reported that the 37 percent of patients reporting GERD symptoms were twice as likely to experience COPD exacerbation's, compared with those without GERD symptoms. This study appears in the October issue of CHEST, the peer-reviewed journal of the American College of Chest Physicians.
Other sources, including the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) state while the association between GERD and respiratory symptoms is well recognized in the setting of asthma, the association of GERD and COPD is even less clear. A review of the limited data on GERD and swallowing abnormalities in patients with COPD indicate that prevalence of GERD and esophageal disorders in patients with COPD is higher than in the normal population. However, its contribution to respiratory symptoms, bronchodilator use and pulmonary function in patients with COPD remains unknown.
A possible link between GERD and COPD may be proved or disproved through further study. If you suffer from GERD and COPD, and you have any concerns, you should contact your physician for more information.
Related Resource:
GERD and Asthma
Additional information from other About Health Guides:
COPD - From About's Guide to Lung Diseases
Asthma - From About's Guide to Asthma

Until we meet again my friends, Remember,

Inhale ~~~123
Exhale ~~~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

Viral Infection of the tongue

2008-07-14T18:21:00.002-05:00

Good Evening my friends, well it's been a while since my last post. I am still recovering from the "Pleuritic Pneumonia" today is day 12 of my Prednisone treatment. Before I was hospitalized with the pneumonia I had been complaining about my tongue hurting so much and blistering, I was put on a mouth rinse called "Ny Statin" in sort of helped some but did not clear up the suspected "Thrush". Due to the hospitalization everything else was on hold. I thought by now it would have cleared up it has not. I saw my Pulmonologist on July 2nd. he suggested I see an Ear,Nose & Throat Specialist" I called July 3rd.got an appt for today.

The Dr. looked at my tongue and could not believe how awful it looked ! He wanted to check my throat so he used a spray of lido cane thru my nose and down my throat (to numb it) after 5min. he came back and took this really skinny tubing and put it thru my nose and down my throat to see what was going on, well to my surprise he asked if I had "Acid Reflux" I said yes, but it is not a problem with the med. I am on.

After the exam he explained what was going on, he said well you have a really serious case of what we call "Glossitis" layman's terms A Viral Infection of your tongue ! Geez ! what to do now...well he prescribed a 10 day course of Diflucan, stay on a bland diet, no citruc, no acids, and also increased my acid reflux meds to twice daily. He said the acid was in my throat and was not helping my tongue, amazing isn't it.

Hopefully this med. will work altho he did say it will take a long time for it to heal completely. I have an appt. with the Dr. on the 28th of this month for a follow up.

That is about all for now...until we meet again my friends remember,

Inhale ~~~123

Exhale~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

Pleuritic Pneumonia

2008-06-25T20:36:00.003-05:00

Good Evening my friends, well, here I am out of the hospital with an in hospital diagnosis of "Pleuritic Pneumonia" for those of you who do not know what that means is this....Pleurisy is an inflammation of the pleura characterized by difficult painful breathing and often accompanied by the exudation of liquid into the chest cavity. "Pleura" is the thin serous membrane that covers a lung and lines the chest cavity.
Now, after a week in the hospital..I am not refreshed! I was waken it seemed every other hour for blood work, o2 levels, breathing treatments, iv changes, etc...SO I am glad to be home to rest!. The only good thing about being in the hospital is that I was able to receive the antibiotics via inter venous as well as the steroids which did help a lot.
Now...before I was discharged on Sat. the nurse disconnected my o2 which by the way I was on all the time I was in the hospital. I had to do a walk down the hall way...(slow steps) so in my opinion it really did not make a difference. Since I have been home any effort to walk and talk is a chore, I see my pulmononologist next week and I am sure he will do a different test to measure my 02 levels. When I was admitted to the hospital my 02 level was at 88% upon discharge 92% today I bet it is at about 88/89 upon exertion. One more thing, while in the hospital the nurse came in and said here you go take these meds...hmmmmm wrong ones! Be so careful of the dosage and times of your meds !

So until me meet again my friends...
Remember,
Inhale, 123
Exhale, 1234
Breathe Easy,
Sandy

Colds/Infections/Meds.

2008-06-02T21:36:00.003-05:00

Good Evening to all my friends, well here we are again into the "sick season" Germs, flu, etc...I myself have come down with a nasty cold and I mean nasty from my visit to Washington D.C.
Hopefully my message was heard and that my friends is worth the price of a dang cold. It has been a couple of weeks and the cold is not getting better , I had taken my on hand supply of antibiotics but that did not work for t his strain so I finally decided to call my Pulmo. Dr. and he immediately called in two scripts for me one for a 7 day supply of Azithromycin and (Antibiotic) and a "Dosepak" of MethyiPredniSolone tablets for 7 days....Time will tell in a positive manner.

Until we meet again my friends, remember
Inhale ~ 123
Exhale ~1234

Breathe Easy,
Sand

Sandy goes to Washington, D C

2008-05-17T20:08:00.003-05:00

Good Evening my friends trust you all are well and breathing easy these days. Myself I got a little run down from the big Washington D.C. trip but let me tell you it sure was worth it. It was the first United For Lung Health Advocasy Day 2008. There were 18 various organizations that joined us as well as about 70 participants, patients, caregivers, etc. All the delegates for the states were teamed up and of course I was team Florida. My team consisted of Bob Campbell who is an Alpha 1 patient and John Walsh who is the President & CEO, co - founder Alpha 1 Foundation what an awesome team. Our goal was to meet with various Senators, Congressman/women, Representatives, to spread the message about funding needed for Lung health research, HR 552 Pulmanry and Cardiac Rehab. Act., HR 3904 Family Asthma Act, Environment/Radon increased funding for HR6 The Diesel Emission Reduction Act.

I was asked how COPD/Emphysema has changed my life, well we all know that answer except for the lay person. I heard someone say is Asthma catchy ! The first day I met with Congresswomen Illiana Ros Leichtin was an awesome lady, I know she will help us she was so concerned about learning what she could about emphysema etc., we then met with her staff member Jay O'Callaghan (hope I spelled this correctly) just let me know Jay..lol He to was very concerned and I told him how I live day to day, antibiotics in one hand and a rescue inhaler in the other because I never know when I may have to use on or the other, in fact today I started the antibiotics as I came down with a cold from mingling with so many different follks and being on the airplane and in the airports..

The following day we met with Senator Nelsons staff and then on to Senator Martinez's staff. I feel that we did make an impression.

I was so happy to speak on behalf of those of you who could not make the trip or did not know about the trip, in the future I will be sure to post about anything that you all might be interesed in participating in.

One other bill we did lobby for was HR1282 which expands open enrollment of Medigap to cover disabled Medicare Benificiaries.

That about wraps it up for tonite my friends, Rember till we meet again,

~Inhale 123

~Exhale 1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

Washington DC/ C- Pap ID Tags

2008-05-09T20:43:00.005-05:00

Hello my friends..I was doing some surfing about Sleep Apnea which you all know I have as well as many others and found a site that offers ID tags for our sleep apnea carry bag..which by the way is not considered a "carry on" as it is considered a Life Support System...day is not wasted I learned something..lol The tag is about 10/5 one side is bold lettered Medical Equipment Identification Tag and the other side: Medical Alert , Respiratory Equipment and gives you the option to note cpap/bipap/vpap/autopap and then list the owners name.

I was happy I found this site especially for my upcoming trip to Washing DC for the first Federal Advocacy Day for Lung Health

This weekend I will be getting everything together lots of info not to much clothing to pack only going to be a few days..but I know the anxiety and stress will be high..I will but my breathing techniques in high gear and think of all of you who could not make it and just hope I make a difference for all of us. Until we meet again my friends remember,

~~~Inhale 123

~~~Exhale 1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

Satisfaction Guaranteed !

2008-05-07T13:06:00.003-05:00

Good afternoon my friends hope all is well and it is a good breathing day ! The reason I am writing today is that I received a reply about the "Spiriva" capsules it is as follows:" What happens to the little particles when we puncture the capsule" hmmmm good question, I e/mailed spiriva and asked that same question....within minutes the phone rings..yup it was the folks from Boehringer Ingelheim replying to my query.

Here is their reply: Once the capsule is punctured the minuscule particles are usually caught in the "screen" of the Handihaler and if for some reason the screen does not catch them they are ingested..causing no harm as they are a hard gelatin and not plastic...I read the "Patent's Instructions for use" it does indicate that "Spiriva" is a light green, hard gelatin capsule.

I asked about the empty capsules she asked if I had them, I was glad I did keep them, I mentioned to the gal that I had contacted her company before and the reply was that they could not do anything about them..she said I apologize for that, do you have the capsules if you do I will send out an envelope to you to send them back to me. to be tested.now here is the best part I also saved the blister package which had the lot # on it....She asked what pharmacy I had the prescription at I told her, she said I will call them and call you right back, which she did within the next 5-7 days there will be a "Courtesy Replacement" for me...Wow!

I have to tell you, the gals I spoke with were very nice and understanding

I am glad I saved the empty capsules. If anyone has the same problem save the empty capsules, contact the Company...Oh one more thing always check the chamber to make sure nothing is blocking it..

I made a point also about the "Thrush" she appreciated me bringing that up and will look into it.. I hesitate to use it cause how bad my mouth gets, and if I don't use it I have a difficult time breathing !...I choose to live with the "Thrush"...The best thing to do is be sure to rinse your mouth it is soooo important. Also she asked how I use the "Spiriva" I told her I inhale the capsule, then exhale, without using the "inhaler "

I then inhale and exhale again..that is the proper way to use the "Inhaler"

So, until we meet again my friends remember;

~~~Inhale 123

~~~Exhale 1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

"Asthma Walk" April 26,2008

2008-04-26T13:57:00.005-05:00

Good Afternoon to my friends ! More exciting news to share with all of you ! Today I participated in the annual "Blow the whistle on Asthma" walk held in Ft. Myers, Florida it was nice to see all those folks participating. Last year it was difficult for me to walk a mile but thru out the year I have been exercising (light) walking, stretching and using breathing techniques(PLB) it sure has made a difference, in fact I had put on my "Pedometer" it measures steps, calories and mile (s) walked low and behold I walked 2miles, yup 2 miles ! Exercises are so vital to all of us. The gentleman in the picture is Mr. Kurt Goerke, Regional Director

for the American Lung Association of Florida, Inc.

Next month I am going to Washington DC to participate in The first Federal Health Advocacy Day, meet with the senators from all over get to share our personal stories, hopefully t enlighten them on how important

it is to get funding for Lung Research for folks like you and I!

Until we meet again my friends remember,

~Inhale 123

~Exhale 1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

Relay For Life

2008-04-21T18:00:00.006-05:00

Hello my friends hope you all are breathing easy this evening, the temps here in florida are awesome upper 60's low 80's light humidity I would love these temps. all year long..lol I have been walking more each day , exercise is good for us with Lung Disease only to be done as tolerated and also check with your Dr. For the first time I participated in a "Relay for Life" this past weekend, let me tell you it was wonderful

The photo above shows a group of Cancer Survivors and their affiliation "New Voice Club" of Fort Myers all these folks has had their voice box removed due to cancer each and every one of them are an inspiration to all of us. The meaning of relay for life starts at dusk and ends at the next day's morning. The light and darkness of day and night parallel the physical effects, emotions and mental state of a cancer patient while undergoing treatment. Everyone thru out the nite walked the track for a half hour and each time handed off their baton to the next walker, I walked from 5:30 Sat. am till 6:00am what an honor for me. As a participant, you feel the brightness of the morning and know the end of Relay is close at hand. I sure was beat then then I think of what the patients are going thru and they know we are there beside them.

I am blessed each and every day to greet the morning sun !

Until we meet again my friends remember,

~inhale 123

~ Exhale 1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

Wrong Dosage

2008-04-16T21:06:00.002-05:00

Hello my friends, well here we are again with another dilemma! As you all know from my previous posts that I have been having problems with "Atrial Fibrillation's" and my Cardiologist suggested I try a drug called "Digoxin" to help control a normal heart rhythm..that was on or about 3/15/08, SO on 4/15/08 I go to the pharmacy to have the med. refilled guess what! the Pharmacist asked me how the med was working I told her really not well I still had atrial fibulations and was planning on going into the hospital for three days to monitor for a new med to see how I reacted ! Come to find out the pharmacy gave me the wrong med. dosage! Oh my God ! they gave me 0.125 mg instead of.25 mg...half the dosage! All the pharmacist could say was " I am sorry" well dang it , you are dealing with my heart here, if my heart does not work right neither will my lungs ! So, my friends be real careful when you get our meds, check out the prescription and count your pills, make sure what you are taking is what you should be taking, oh, one more thing when you go to your Dr. ask for a copy of the prescription so you will know what you should be taking for your own safety...I learnred the hard way! Needless to say I will be transferring my prescription to an other pharmacy.
Because of the mix up, when i picked up my script the pharmacy did not charge me and they gave me a $25.00 gift card for the store...do you think they are worried need not be they have lost my business s for sure.
Until we meet again my friends remember,

Breathe Easy,
Sandy
Inhale~~~123
Exhale ~~~~1234

Laughter Is The Best Medicine

2008-03-30T12:38:00.005-05:00

Learning the History of April Fools Day In sixteenth-century France, the start of the new year was observed on April first. It was celebrated in much the same way as it is today with parties and dancing into the late hours of the night. Then in 1562, Pope Gregory introduced a new calendar for the Christian world, and the new year fell on January first. There were some people, however, who hadn't heard or didn't believe the change in the date, so they continued to celebrate New Year's Day on April first. Others played tricks on them and called them "April fools." They sent them on a "fool's errand" or tried to make them believe that something false was true. In France today, April first is called "Poisson d'Avril." French children fool their friends by taping a paper fish to their friends' backs. When the "young fool" discovers this trick, the prankster yells "Poisson d’Avril!" (April Fish!)
Today Americans play small tricks on friends and strangers alike on the first of April. One common trick on April Fool's Day, or All Fool's Day, is pointing down to a friend's shoe and saying, "Your shoelace is untied." Teachers in the nineteenth century used to say to pupils, "Look! A flock of geese!" and point up. School children might tell a classmate that school has been canceled. Whatever the trick, if the innocent victim falls for the joke the prankster yells, "April Fool! "
The "fools' errands" we play on people are practical jokes. Putting salt in the sugar bowl for the next person is not a nice trick to play on a stranger. College students set their clocks an hour behind, so their roommates show up to the wrong class - or not at all. Some practical jokes are kept up the whole day before the victim realizes what day it is. Most April Fool jokes are in good fun and not meant to harm anyone. The most clever April Fool joke is the one where everyone laughs, especially the person upon whom the joke is played.
"The first of April is the day we remember what we are the other 364 days of the year." - American humorist Mark Twain

We all need some humor in our lives, especially those who are living with a chronic disease, they say humor is the best medicine !

Today was not a good day for me for some reason the osteoporosis in my back is in an awful "flair up" I am trying to move about, have taken Tylenol 1000 mg. twice today perhaps it would be better if I just lie down for a while. Anyway watch out for Tuesday,"April Fools Day!" Enjoy the rest of your weekend. Remember, till we meet again my friends,

~Inhale 123

~Exhale 1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

Happy Easter

2008-03-23T14:47:00.003-05:00

Happy Easter Everyone ! What a beautiful day it is here in sunny Florida, I know a lot of folks up North are having a bad time with the bad weather and flooding, let's hope they will be alright.
Well, to update everyone on what is going on, I saw my Cardiologist on 3/18 as I have been experiencing severe arrithimas, after talking with him it was agreed on to have me take digoxin which basically should slow down the heart rate. I have two weeks to see if it works if it does not, then I will have to be admitted to the hospital for 3 days so I can be monitored while taking a different medicine. My breathing has been labored due to the arrithimas and also spring time allergies..geez...altho, it could be worse.
Many Easter traditions originated long before the beginning of the Christian era. Like Christmas, which is related to pre-Christian winter festivals, Easter is connected in many ways with early pagan rituals that accompanied the arrival of spring. Easter is also associated with the Jewish festival of Passover. Holy Saturday Christian:On Holy Saturday, the body of Jesus rested in the tomb in which it had been sealed. Jesus had said that after three days he would be resurrected. Consequently, according to Saint Matthew, the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate, ordered the posting of guards at the tomb to prevent Jesus’ followers from removing the body and claiming that he had arisen from the dead.Easter Sunday Early on Easter morning, several women who were among Jesus’ followers came to his tomb to anoint his body. They found that the great stone that sealed the entrance had been rolled away and that the tomb was empty. At that moment, according to Saint Luke, two angels appeared, saying “Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen!” This momentous event, which was taken as proof of Christ’s divinity and signaled his triumph over death, sin, and evil, is celebrated on Easter Sunday.Easter Eggs The Easter egg is associated with beliefs of particularly ancient origin. The egg was an important symbol in the mythologies of many early civilizations, including those of India and Egypt. It was commonly believed that the universe developed from a great egg and that the halves of its shell corresponded to Heaven and Earth. The egg was also connected with the springtime fertility rituals of many pre-Christian and Indo-European peoples, and both the Egyptians and the Persians made a practice of coloring eggs in the spring. In Christianity the egg is a symbol of resurrection, representing the emergence of Christ from his tomb to everlasting life.Over the centuries the symbolic associations of the egg have been more or less forgotten, and modern Easter eggs are valued primarily for their colorful appearance. Eggs of chocolate or other kinds of candy are also favorites of the season.Games involving Easter eggs have long been popular in many Christian countries. In France, Germany, and Austria, egg picking is a favorite game. It is played by two people, each of whom holds a hard-boiled egg in his hand. The players knock or roll their eggs together, and the one whose egg shows the fewest cracks may claim both eggs. A well-known Easter event in the United States is the annual egg rolling contest on the White House lawn.Have a great day everyone !Breathe Easy,Sandy

allergies " A Chooooo"

2008-03-11T18:58:00.002-05:00

Hello to my friends...hope you are all well, tis the season for allergies..and dang it I have them ! sneezing, coughing, sniffles, watery eyes as well as half the population of the state of Florida ! lol So what do we do ?...hmmmm well, I researched a few items with regards to air purifiers and I found one.. A Sears Kenmore Hepa Air cleaner...oh my God what a difference it has made ! It has four operation channels, Turbo for the initial operation, then Hi for Maximum Operation, then Med for Daytime Operation and lastly Lo for Nightime operation... the filter system is awesome ! The Pre-Filter System should be changed every three month or sooner depending on the level of the room's air contaminenants and the frequency of use.

The HEPA filter is usually 1-3 years again, depending on the use of the filter.
I sure have noticed a difference since I have used the air cleaner, I changed the filter or cleaned the filter after one week and of my goodness! all the cat hair and particles it filtered amazed me! I sure do recommend that everyone get one of these machines it sure is worth the price to be able to sleep well at nite...

Until we meet again my friends, Remember,
Inhale~~~123
Exhale ~~~1234
Breathe Easy,
Sandy

Sleep Apnea Study Results

2008-02-24T16:44:00.003-05:00

Good Afternoon everyone!...Hope you all are doing well...

I saw my Doctor this past week for the results of the "Sleep Apnea Study" they had tested me at a "10" pressure level, from what I have been told that is normal up to a "14". pressure and I can assure you this..I am in no hurry to reach that point..

Apparently during the night my heart was beating pretty irregular hmmmm...I know I have "Atrial Fibrillation's" and they sure have been getting worse for whatever reason, my Doctor had me wear a "Halter Monitor" for 24 hours I should have the results next week I will also make an appt. to see my Cardiologist hopefully next week. It sure is interesting how all of this works together, just like an engine, if you don't keep all the parts working up to where they should be...it wont run properly.

Another issue of concern is the "Thrush" again...gee ! I just assumed and probably should not have...we all know what that means..lol anyway..I blamed it on the "Spiriva" Pulmo. Dr. tells me that the "Asmanax" that I take at night is the culprit Wow ! not to say that the "Spriva" is blameless Now I have a choice, stop the "Asmanax" or the "Spiriva"....Yupper, I stopped the "Asmanax" I found by not using the "Spiriva" I had a rough time breathing and had to use the "Rescue" Before I saw the Pulmo. Dr. I went to the drug store to find something to ease the discomfort in my mouth...this is what I found "Prevention Mouth Rinse"...fights Thrush!...whooppppeee...I bought it and it worked! Dr. told me he would give me a script for something I assured him I was doing ok with the "Prevention Mouth Rinse"...

Each day is gift from God and I relish every one of them! No matter what the day brings, there is always someone else out there who is worse of than I am. Until we meet again my friends....Remember,

Inhale~~~123

Exhale ~~~1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

Sleep Apnea Study

2008-02-10T20:12:00.000-05:00

Good Evening to everyone! Hope you all enjoyed your weekend where ever you are.I had a nice weekend,went out to dinner at a very nice restaurant, wonderful food, great service and most of all I relaxed! Because I had been having trouble sleeping as I have OSA, Obsturcted Sleep Apnea and have not been tested since 2001 my Dr. thought it best to be retesed so.... This past Thursday evening I had another Sleep Appnea Study done at the Dr.'s Office, there was a nice big room, queen size bed, huge bathroom, nice big shower, awesome closet space, and television what more could one expect...lol I got all hooked up to all the wires and electordes, ekg wires etc, I looked like "Mork from Ork" some of use will remember that show ! lol...so not being in my own bed, I was a bit anxious about going to sleep took me a while and finally I dozed off...then the nurse comes in and wakes me to tell me my mask is leaking air...geeez, this is suppose to be a sleep study...she adjustms my mask and off to sleep I go, only to be awakened once again...lol some study huh..lol Anyway, she decided that I need a "Chin Strap" because I am not breathing correctly! See picture above, actually it did make a difference in how I slept the rest of the night. I cant say I awoke rested because I sure did not get a full nites sleep or rest...she had to do her job...and I am happy for that. I have to wait to hear from my Pulmonologist as to the results of the study,hopefully it went well...so until then my friends until we meet again...Remember...

Inhale~~~123
Exhale ~~~~1234
Breathe Easy,
Sandy

Prescription Safety

2008-02-05T17:22:00.000-05:00

How is everyone today ? I am doing well up till the time I went to pick up my prescription at the pharmacy. I was waiting in line and watched the Pharmacist take the pills from the tray/counter put them into the palm of his hand~ then put them back onto the counter, dispensed them into the bottle, labeled them and gave them to the customer, obviously she did not see this . Once he rang her up, I asked me why he did that, he replied, I was in a hurry!!!...No excuse, I know I should not have done that but I did....I asked if he filled my prescripttion, cause if he did i did not want it, he assured me he had not ! What concerns me is that the Pharmacist never washed his hands at all !...We need to be so careful, I think hereafter I will go directly to the pharmacy and watch them as they refull my prescriptions....

Until we meet again my friends remember,

~~~Inhale 123
~~~Exhale 1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

We are Back on LIne !

2008-01-24T22:01:00.000-05:00

Hey Everyone!...We are back on line, "Welcome To My Little Corner of The World" !!!! Apparantly, the "Spam Robot" realized that we are not "Spam"....Hoorrrray for us!...so now to catch up on a few things, my other blog I had to create to keep in touch was called, "Welcome To Our World" that will be put on the back burner for now...hopefully we won't have any future problems with my original site..hang in there I am doing my best to keep you all informed.
My biggest issue is with "Cigarette Smoke" and or the Odor of "Smokers"..I was in the supermarket the other day and a person came up behind me in the cashiers line and all of a sudden I started to cough so hard my lungs hurt! , it was because the customer behind me smelled so so bad of stale cigartte smoke I was taken back with the smell..I turned around, holding my hankie to my mouth and nose and got out of the line and went to the service desk and explained my situation and of course the young man was very understanding and rang up my order.
It still amazes me that with all the non smoking campaings going on that folks would catch on...and quit that nasty habit, altho...for some it sure is difficult to quit I can only hope to help those out there to "Kick The Habit" Drop me a line..you have my address, I will answer any and all questions about quitting, I have done it now for 5 yrs! It can be done....Willpower and Determination will do it! Until we meet again my friends...Remember~~~
~~~Inhale....123
~~~~Exhale...1234
Breathe Easy,
Sandy

Home from New England

2008-01-01T14:32:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year to everyone! Well I made it back to Florida safe and sound and let me say this I am sure glad to be back to the warmer temps! I thought I was going to freeze in New England, lol The highest temp. was 31 degrees, brrrrrrr.

As you can see the picture above , these are my great nieces, Haley on the left and Lauren on the right ,boy they are beautiful little girls. I loved visiting with them. Just a friendly reminder they are the reason I quit smoking 5 yrs. ago. We all had a wonderful Christmas, my flight got into Boston about 8:15 pm, my brother Ray, his wife Mary and my nephew Christopher all greeted me at the airport.

Haley and Lauren were getting sleepy , my nephew Andrew called and said the girls are waiting for you Aunty, well it only took us about 10 min. from that phone call to arrive at the house and the girls were looking out the window for me..what a wonderful feeling that was, after all hugs and flying wrapping paper Christmas in New England was a success !

Andrew had plenty of goodies as he coninues the "Grace" tradition of opening packages on Christmas Eve, with plenty of food and good cheer !

I spent time with everyone, a visit I will remember for ever.

The flight home could have been better, it was pretty bumpy and me not being a favorite of flying made for a little anxiety, I controlled it tho.

Seats were very close, people were coughing and sneezing...geez!...What I did do was before I got on the airplane I mixed up a package of "Emergen-C" with water, it is a mega dose of Vitamin C..I understand a product called "Airborne" has the same ingredients only in pill form. Once the plane landed in Florida I attempted to stand up and wait in line, and the man across the row jumped and up and actually "Pushed " me, he wanted to make sure I was not in his way of getting his over head luggage, now, you just know I reminded him just how rude he was, another passenger agreed with me..he was definitely wrong !...Our world is made up of so many different people, I am glad I am not one of the ignorant ones!

New Years Eve was not a good one for me, I think I had jet lag or something else, or I picked up a "Bug" from someone on the plane I was pretty sick, maybe run myself down, altho this afternoon I do feel a lot better.

Looking forward to a Safe, Healthy and Happy New Year!

Until we meet again my friends remember,

~~~Inhale 123 ~~~~Exhale 1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

Christmas in New England

2007-12-22T11:04:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas to everyone, Happy Holidays! Another year has past and another is on the way. I am looking forward to the new year. I will be going North to Massachusetts for Christmas Eve to be with my family. It's the first Christmas together since I have moved to Florida!....Yes, I should rethink the weather...lol I have not had gloves on for over 3 years for that matter nor have I worn gloves and or boots, should be an experience to remember. From what I have heard Massachusetts has received a heck of a lot of snow!....But my brother assured me last nite that everything will be shoveled and car will be kept warm so I wont get cold, I think my blood has thinned out enough now that I just may feel the cold...brrrrrr I have read a post from another site that suggests that folks with lung conditions should wear a "Cold Air Face Mask" it can be purchased in any drug store/pharmacy I will get one today. Also I have a nice fluffy scarf to put around my neck. It just seems weird as I go to the airport in Florida I will be dressed like "Nanook of the North" lol Also, this is the first Christmas that I will get to see my Great Nieces, Haley and Lauren the picture on the left was sent to me from Christmas 2006. I have a few more gift to buy then to pack my suitcases. I will see you all in 2008. Again, Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Happy New Year!

Until we meet again remember, Inhale~~~ 123, Exhale~~~~1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

The Butterfly

2007-12-13T22:11:00.000-05:00

Just an addendum to the last post about the Monarch Butterlfy. Did you notice her wings and her beautiful colors, how soothing she is to look at?I know I have a sense of wonder just looking at her. I wonder what a great life she has just going about her business and savoring all the God given beauty that we all take for granted. I look around and surely do appreciate my life, my friends and all that goes with it and thank the Almighty God for what I have. I am inspired by all the beautiful colors in all the people I have met in my life and how they go about their business savoring the God given beauty that we all take for granted !

Remember my friends,
Inhale ~~~123
Exhale ~~~~1234
Breathe Easy,
Sandy

Things that take Our Breath Away

2007-12-11T20:37:00.000-05:00

As I see the "Monarch Butterfly" flittering by I think Oh My God how beautiful she is and how beautiful my life is just watching her sail by my window and be as free as she is I feel a sense of freedom with her...and then reality strikes back..ok...let's get together and smell the roses...all is well that ends well...I love my life and all that goes with it. I will do what I have to do to live with this disease and be happy for each and every day I can write about it and share my life with everyone...

Remember,

Inhale~~~123

Exhale ~~~1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

December 2nd

2007-12-02T09:59:00.000-05:00

Good Day to all, last nite I had to opportunity to attend a Southwest Florida Symphony and enjoy the show "The Sinatra Songbook", and also music from the Big Band era, needless to say it was just wonderful ! We had balcony seats and a perfect view of the stage and the orchestra was unbelievable, the songs sure did bring back a lot of fond memories, just to name a few, In the Mood, Sentimental Journey, The Lady is a Tramp, and lastly but not least New York, New York. The young man who honored Mr. Sinatra is Jefferey Berger who is an up and coming vocalist who is only 20 yrs old ! God has given him a wonderful gift.

To make the evening even more enjoyable was the absence of smoke of any kind.

Until we meet again my friends remember,

Breathe Easy,

Inhale ~~~123

Exhale ~~~1234

Sandy

Breathing Exercises by "raffaele"

2007-11-26T20:02:00.000-05:00

hello sandy.thank you for mentioning myself and my exercises on your blog.hope you are feeling better with your toe.regarding to the "double breath" exercise if you find anyone interested in trying it they must follow the given order.the first inhalation should only be for 2 seconds,followed by the second and final inhalation where one complete the full inhalation for 4 seconds.then slowly,very slowly exhale for 8 or 10 seconds.for five repetitions.my students do the exercise first thing in the morning.when we breathe in we are massaging the spleen,liver,stomach,intestines,bladder.because the diaphragm pushes down on the inhalation.on the exhalation we are massaging the heart and the lungs because the diaphragm pushes upward.not many people are aware of this powerful exercise.regards to you and your family raffaele Thank YOU raffaele for sharing this will all of us. Until we meet again my friends,

Breathe Easy,

Inhale ~~~123

Exhale~~~~1234

Sandy

Exercising

2007-11-23T16:17:00.000-05:00

Hello again, I just thought of something I wanted to add to my "Broken Toe" post, actually it has to do with exercising because I have been exercising is probably why I am in good shape and did not get hurt more.I have been talking with a friend of mine in England his name is raffaele..he teaches things that have to do with the body and how it affects the mind, he also teaches a breathing technique called :Breath Meditation" which is similar to "Pursed Lip Breathing" with one difference, the exhalation is done thru the nose, the other one is very interesting it is called, "Double Breath" that would be, Inhale, Inhale again then Exhale, raffaele says by doing these exercises we are exercising the internal organs...interesting, I have never heard of these before but I have inquired and others have...Oh, one more thing another friend of mine Vicki who lives in Cal. has had a bad bout with "Thrush" when she had no luck with her physician in getting the right medicine, she finally called her Dentist ! I never thought of that, what a great idea and the medicine he gave her has helped a lot, so without further ado, until we meet again remember,
Inhale~~~123
Exhale ~~1234
Breathe Easy,
Sandy

"Broken Toe"

2007-11-23T13:53:00.000-05:00

Hope everyone enjoyed their Thanksgiving Day ! Here we are in "My Little Corner OF The World" do you really want to know what I did on Wednesday ? anyway I am going to tell you. I drove to work with a friend of mine, once we got there we walking thru the parking lot and yakking up a storm as we approached the building there is a cement step up...yup I missed it down I went on both knees cut them up cut my toes and pretty colors of black, blue red...lol I had to add some humor ! Well, got myself up with help went into the office iced my foot, then hobbled to the car to go to the Walk in clinic, now that's funny ! after being checked over,no x-ray the machine was broke just my luck, well the Dr. assured me nothing was broke go home ice it blah, blah blah...well as the day went on the more it swelled and pain was awful. I had medicine here at the house and took one and slept for about 4 hrs. Remember this is Wed. the nite before Thanksgiving on Thanksgiving I was miserable took another pill slept for another few hours, ate dinner and elevated my leg for the rest of the day, time for bed took another pill.I did not want to sit in the emergency room on Thanksgiving in case your wondering why I stayed in so much pain...anyway, today I got a ride to the emergency room and they took pictures and confirmed that the Toe is broken! after poking and prodding you know I was really hurting so got another pain pill enuf already, guess it will just have to heal on it's own. As long as I keep it elevated and iced it should be OK.

The worst part about going to the E/R all those sick people, coughing, sneezing etc. I wont go into details and of course a lady was put in the bed right beside mine, yup she had a serious cough, nasty cough they were giving her breathing treatments. I was just to be about discharged when I asked to be moved out of the area I was afraid of catching whatever it was she had, I was very anxious, the nurse said there was no other place to move me or her, so I got up and went out into the hallway and waited till they wrote out the discharge paper work which took about another 15 min.Here we are, relaxing, just finished lunch, gonna have leftovers for dinner. Thing could have been worse, only one broken toe not two. Until we meet again my friends, remember

Inhale~~~123

Exhale~~~1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

Smoking !!

2007-11-18T20:05:00.000-05:00

Mr. Bray, You should move to another state , trust me on this, you will NOT be missed in the State of Florida, I for one will get map quest for you. I have to be smoke free and my friends who still smoke are still my friends, however they do respect my and do NOT smoke in front of me.

Have a nice trip !

original Message -----
From: Opinion/Surveys Tobacco News
To: sandyg12121@embarqmail.com
Sent: Sunday, November 18, 2007 1:09 PM
Subject: Florida News: BRAY: Haze of smoke's gone, as are smoking companions
Opinion/Surveys
Florida: BRAY: Haze of smoke's gone, as are smoking companions
Category
Smoke free Policies
Elections/Politics
Op-Ed
Dining/Entertainment State
Florida
Source: St. Petersburg (FL) Times, 2007-11-09Author: JACK BRAY
The only reason for the ban is the allegation that secondhand smoke is injurious to the health of others. If the allegation is true, why are there exceptions in the implementation of Amendment 6? Are certain locations impervious to "dangerous smoke"? . . . The price to be "smoke-free" has been paid for by the abrupt separation of friends and neighbors. For this very powerful reason, I say the Florida law should be repealed. The Clean Air Act should be strengthened to achieve a compromise that allows everyone to get back together. And so, as I fly off to another state for the rest of my life, I urge you to ask each other: Is the absence of smoke worth the absence of friends?
» Full text of article

I would like to share something with all of you...In Florida as well as the other 49 States in this great country of ours everyone is doing their part to reduce the cigarette addiction as well as second hand smoke that would affect thousands of non smokers, including myself...however I received an email today from a gentleman, I will attach his e/mail as well as my reply, of which may sound a bit harsh but, when it comes to my lungs and my health so be it. Second Hand smoke has become one of the biggest leaders in Lung Cancer, I am in no hurry to be counted. Until we meet again my friends Remember,

Breathe Easy,

Inhale, 123

Exhale 1234

Cat Scan

2007-11-15T16:17:00.000-05:00

I just have to share my good news with everyone, I saw my Pulmonologist today for a routine check up and the results of the Cat Scan which came back no change that's a good thing, I do not have to have another one done for a whole year, nor do I have to see him for a whole year, I am so pleased. Seems the nodules they have been checking every 6 months have been laying dormant and let's hope they stay that way.

I count my blessing each and every day, I Thank God for giving me another day to breathe, I always say it could be worse be thankful that it isnt, I truly am "Thankful"

Until we meet again my friends,

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

Inhale ~~~123

Exhale ~~~1234

A Wonderful Tribute

2007-11-11T21:15:00.001-05:00

Today, November 11th, I attended a wonderful tribute to our Veterans, honoring those who gave their lives for our freedom, honoring those Veterans who still give their all for our freedom.

Once again it seems everywhere I go there is an awful odor from some one with a cigarette ! One reason why I carry a mask with me as had to move twice from where I was standing to get away from the second hand smoke. Once the observance was over with I had the pleasure of speaking with the commander ofour post , Deanna Hall while we were talking I explained to her that I have Emphysema and would love to do more at the post, however the lack of smoke eaters prevents me from doing my part to participate in the functions, she assured me that the smoke eaters will be up and running each and every day in the very near future.

Until we meet again my friends Remember,
Inhale, 123 Exhale,1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

Veterans Day, November11th.

2007-11-09T15:56:00.000-05:00

Today I was very busy right from the get go, because Veterans Day is just around the corner myself and a friend signed up to sell poppies for our Soldiers/Veterans, we took the early shift, for over 2 hrs. we sold quite a few poppies we did quite well. But, the best part is when folks come up and Thanked us for standing and selling poppies to support our Veterans, my reply, It is because of our Veterans that I can do this, and enjoy my freedom. I say" Thank You "to our Veterans !

November Already !

2007-11-05T11:22:00.000-05:00

Here we are November 2007, my, my where does the time go, seems the older I get the quicker the days go by, how about you ? I am going to get of the subject of COPD/Emphysema, for just a little bit.

Saturday evening I was lucky recipient of a free ticket to the Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre in Fort Myers, Dinner was wonderful and the show was about "Buddy" The Buddy Holly Story, the music of the 1950's I could relate to all of the songs it was just wonderful ! No one was allowed snap shots or videos. The house was packed about standing room only it went on for about 2 hours with a brief intermission, the cast received a standing ovation as they should have they were terrific. We had great seats right up front yet not to close we had a wonderful view of the stage.

Because Florida's Non Smoking Laws, the theatre is of course smoke free, however, there were only a couple of folks outside puffing away on our way in and on our way out, one of the reasons I always carry a dust mask and or a hankie to cover my nose and mouth, second hand smoke can be worse than the actually cigarette. Trust you all had a wonderful weekend, enjoy the day here in Florida it is about 60 degrees and sunny, until we meet again my friends.

Inhale 123 Exhale 1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

In the Pool again!

2007-10-30T19:47:00.000-05:00

Well, here we are again in the pool finally, it's Tues. Oct.30th. the weather is breezy and cool, only a handful of folks showed up again today I thing because the temps are getting lower..in the 70's it is getting to chilly for the pool...plus it was raining this morning I heard what I thought was thunder and I was a running for the steps to exit, and someone said, it's ok Sandy it was an airplane..lol We went thru our routine for about 30 minutes and I had to leave early for a Doctor Appt. for consult on a Colonoscopy...has anyone ever had that done, I am kind of skeptical but it needs to be done so they tell me...

I would appreciate any input on that procedure.

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

Inhale 123 Exhale 1234

Ahhh, The weekend/Rest

2007-10-26T12:55:00.000-05:00

I made it to the pool today still a bit chilly but not windy like yesterday, whew ! what a relief and the pool was heated as well. I thought the hours on Fridays were 9:30 till 10:15 oops, the class started at 10:30 till 11:15 so here I am all shriveled up from all that time in the pool, altho I don't feel to bad this afternoon, today we did water walking, meaning doing the regular routine while walking up and down the pool, I asked one of the life guards to take a few pictures for me, remember that game can you find Wally, well, can you find Sandy..lol If you have read my Blog you have seen my picture. Enjoy the weekend I know I will, seriously exercise is great for our lungs and body.

Until we meet again~~~~

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

123 inhale, 1234 exhale

No Water Exercise Today

2007-10-25T13:50:00.000-05:00

Good Afternoon everyone, well I did not make it to the pool today for water aerobics, you ask why ? Temps were in the low 70's with a brisk breeze, here in Florida that is pretty darn cool not wanting to take a chance on getting a chill and or a cold I opted to stay here and exercise right in the comforts of home, let's hope tomorrow is warmer. Have a wonderful afternoon and evening.

Breathe Easy

Sandy

Inhale123, Exhale 1234

Another Day of Exercise /Water Aerobics

2007-10-24T18:38:00.000-05:00

Here I am another day and I made it thru the exercises, still a bit stiff and sore but, my little lady friend with her walker meandered to the pool climbed down the steps and did laps again ! What an inspiration. The exercises are interesting try this, hug yourself and put your head down, do you feel the muscles in the back of your neck stretching, I sure do.

Running in place in the pool is great, then the instructor tells us to do the Irish Jig ! he cant be for real...yup he is, it's looks so easy while he is on deck doing it, try that in the water it's not easy...lol Then we do the rocking horse thingy, that's fun, then walk to the other side of the pool and return, going backwards is suppose to help with the resistance and improve muscle strength...so he says..lol I took 1000mg of Tylenol before the aerobics and 1000mg four hours later, they really do help. However, tomorrow morning will tell the real story..Tomorrow when I get to the pool I am going to ask the lifeguard to take a picture of all of us... Watch for the update and picture if you dare...

Breathe Easy,

Inhale,123 Exhale 1234

That is exactly what I did while I was exercising !

First day of Water Aerobics

2007-10-23T20:14:00.000-05:00

Ok here we go...ouch, dang it I had no idea how out of shape I was or am ! Oh my goodness after a 45 min. workout, which seemed like a 45 hour work out I just about crawled out of the pool, and to make me feel worse there was an elderly lady I would say about 90 years young doing laps !

so how bad of am I...pretty bad..lol so tomorrow I will bite the bullet and do the darn exercises and think about that little lady..and what she did and what I can do ! until then my friends have a wonderful evening, look for an update tomorrow.

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

Inhale 123, Exhale 1234

Osteoporosis and Arthritis

2007-10-21T16:08:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone, I know it has only been a couple of days since my last post about Osteoporosis and Arthritis I just wanted to give you all an update. I have been taking 1000 mg. of Tylenol every 4 hrs. it seems to be taking the edge off, also doing the heating pad thingy and putting a comfy pillow at my back. Now, according to my Dr. I should be exercising every day, he suggested the water aerobics and since I don't have a pool in my back yard I would have to go to the community pool, do you remember a while back I did a post on community poos and the germs and all.

I have done some research and made a few calls and have been assured that the local community pool is closed on Sunday and Monday so that they can clean and make sure the chemicals are stabilized.

I will give it a shot on Tuesday and update you on how it goes and how I feel. As I said before exercise is so important for so many reasons, I have not been exercising only because the "Shingles" got in my way for two months now but, they have cleared up and I now have the go ahead to do stuff again in moderation of course I really need to be careful not to break any bones...

Enjoy the rest of your weekend and remember,

Inhale 123 Exhale 1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

Ostseoporosis and Copd

2007-10-19T14:33:00.000-05:00

Good Afternoon everyone on this lovely day in sunny Florida.

I have to share something with you all. Last week I went to my Dr. for a follow up of a cold, at that time I mentioned to him that my back has been SO painful... it felt like it was going to break in two, plus it was taking a toll on my posture which I have always prided myself in. He examined me as gently as possible, but I was SO tender it even hurt to sit in a chair. Sitting in a stooped position seemed to ease the pain, but was not doing my breathing any favors. Think about it... stoop over & try to breathe. I did some research while waiting for the tests results and low and behold, Osteoporosis and Copd are definitely connected.

The Dr. had me schedule a test called a Dexa-Scan--which means a bone density test, as well as an x-ray of my spine.

Tests revealed just what he thought "Osteoporosis" and "Arthritis". He thought maybe a fracture due to the tenderness, fractures are common if you have Osteoporosis because the bones are so brittle.

Treatment plan suggested, Vitamin D if I can tolerate it, exercise and heat. I'll give it a shot and hope for the best. I tried the Vit. D cannot tolerate it, hurts my stomach. So I tried something called "Viactive"... so far so good. I am attaching a link for you to look at. It is never a dull day in the life of Sandy Grace!
However, I am grateful for each and every day that I wake up and see the sunrise and each day I look at the sunset.

Have a wonderful weekend everyone.

.. check out this site: http://www.4women.gov./faq/osteopor.htm

Remember,
Inhale 123, Exhale 1234

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

Beach & Ocean Pollution

2007-10-15T17:50:00.000-05:00

Today 15 October 2007 is Blog Action Day. This means that bloggers around the web will come together to bring out a single important issue - the environment. Every blogger may post about "The Environment" in his/her own way and about their own topic. What is the goal?... to get everyone talking towards a better future for us and for our children.
http://www.blogactionday.org/

I would like to talk a bit about Beach & Ocean Pollution. This summer I took a trip to a beach in South Carolina. I love the sandy beaches, the warm ocean water and my all time favorite picking sea shells. I was appalled by the number of cigarette butts that smokers discarded on the beach while sunbathing, fishing or just taking a stroll. My suggestion for these people.... "Keep Your Butt Off The Beach"! The attached picture to this post was one that I took of these "Butts on the Beach".

We also find many other forms of garbage on our beaches. aluminum cans, plastic bottles, fishing lures, fishing line, glass bottles, and metal debris. All of these items sooner or later get washed into the oceans or seas. They all pose a threat to not only the living creatures of the seas but also to our own lives.

Toxic Wastes are poisonous materials that dumped into the ocean. They harm plants and animals in the ocean and also have an impact on our health. When toxic waste harms an organism, it can quickly be passed along the food chain and may eventually end up being our seafood. Toxic waste gets into the seas and oceans by the leaking of landfills, dumps, mines, farms and factories.
Toxic Chemicals in the ocean may be killing much of the fish population. One of the most harmful chemicals in the ocean is lead.
Medical Waste is also found in the ocean and is being tested to see if swimmers have a chance of developing Hepatitis or AIDS.
How do we decrease the amount of waste in the oceans?... by recycling as much garbage as we can so there are smaller amounts of harmful materials into the ocean.
Garbage Dumping pertains to harmful materials being dumped into the ocean. For example, human waste, ground-up garbage, water from bathing, and plastics. Most of the waste that has been dumped into the ocean in the early 1990's is still there today... Amazing.. Isn't it??!!
One main cause of garbage dumping occurs when sewage pipes share space with storm water drains. Rainfall causes the pipes to overflow and sewage waste mixes with the storm water drain, this flows into another water source such as a lake or river. Then the garbage pollutes the ocean.
Some other types of Pollution are:
Wastewater: The run-off from rainwater which usually ends up in rivers, lakes, and oceans.
Boat Pollution: This comes from the boat's engine when it is running. The chemicals in the exhaust from the engine which give off excess gasoline.
Car Pollution: When a car gets driven, smoke comes from the back of the car. This smoke ends up being acid rain.
Agriculture Pollution: Chemical pesticides, chemical or natural substances.

Chemical detergents, batteries, plastics, and sewage are all produced and used in homes by humans everyday. People are creating a risk to the plants and animals that live in the oceans and lakes.
How can we help the Environment of our Beaches and Oceans? First and foremost when you ARE on the beach, take your garbage with you!
- recycle plastics
- dispose properly of batteries
- use less water
- carpool
- recycling
- do not throw litter in the street
- do not wash your car or change your oil on the road or driveway. The oil and detergent will be washed into the storm drain.
- create less rubbish in the first place
- buy products in biodegradable packaging
- re-use your plastic shopping bags
** Tell your friends and family... or anyone you see littering about the dangers of rubbish and garbage to marine animals. Encourage them to do the "Right Thing" with litter!

This is our land, our beaches, and our oceans... Only WE can take care of them.

Do What Is Right For Our Environment!
Lori Palermo

First Catch Your Breath Luncheon, Ft. Myers, Fl. Oct.12,2007

2007-10-14T19:05:00.000-05:00

I attended a Women's Lung Health luncheon, the very first in the State of Florida, and let me tell you this, the food was wonderful, the speakers were awesome, the true stories shared brought tears to my eyes, as I could relate to them, as I have lost so many of my family members to cancer,we all need to stop and smell the roses and look at what we have and appreciate each and every day.

There are no better representatives for the American Lung Association than those of us who live with a lung disease. Let's raise awareness and get some funding for lung research. Contact your local chapter and find out what you need to do.

Having a lung disease is no fun, but we can make the best of it, I do it every day.

We have to stay positive, a positive mental attitude will take us a long way. I met a wonderful lady at the luncheon and her philosophy is...You can make a difference and she is SO right....I hope you all have a great evening..

inhale 123---exhale 1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

Medicines working against each other

2007-10-13T20:31:00.000-05:00

Hi all, here is an interesting story....I know it is an important topic..the other day I was not feeling well, coughing up that nasty stuff, we all know what that is ! I figured I best call my primary care doc and tell him what was going on as I was afraid of getting sick, he called in a prescription for me ...a Z-Pac , I went to the pharmacy to pick it up and low and behold the pharmacist said, Sandy we can not fill this for you at this time, because of your heart meds it will cause a problem !

Apparently my Cardiologist had it flagged for this type of med, soooo the pharmacist called my doctor and got another antibiotic for me, which seems to be doing just fine...

I am soooo thankful that this was caught, I know these Drs.are sooo busy, and I am looking on the positive side of it, but wanted you all to know how serious this is...and how dangerous it could have been for me.

Always make sure your Doctor reviews your chart before he calls in a prescription for you , keep a list of current meds, let the nurse know what they are to avoid any drug interaction.

inhale 123 exhale 1234

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

Gold COPD Awareness Lapel Pin & Smokefree Living Pin

2007-10-12T19:02:00.000-05:00

Exclusively Designed by Love Your Lungs, Breathe For Life

Gold COPD Awareness Lapel Pin:

Soft Enamel Cloisonne'
Epoxy Dome
1" Size
Polished Gold Metal
Sandblasted Recessed Metal
1-8mm Post w/ Butterfly Clutch
1.2mm Thickness

Smokefree Living Lapel Pin:
Soft Enamel Cloisonne'
Epoxy Dome
3/4" Size
Dyed Black Metal
1-8mm Post w/Butterfly Clutch
1.2mm Thickness

These pins may be purchased for $3.00 each which includes shipping & handling.

E-mail: Lori Palermo, loveyourlungs@yahoo.com

Help Bring Awareness to (COPD) Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and be Proud to be Living a Smokefree Life!

"When You Can't Breathe, Nothing Else Matters"
Lori

Checking The Mail

2007-10-11T11:19:00.000-05:00

Good Afternoon everyone, hope all is well. I have been posting the blog for a while now, I would love to hear your comments, suggestions, ideas.

The picture is of my cat "The Big Guy" he certainly lives up to his name, he is waiting for the mail... I have another cat, "Missy" she and "The Big Guy " are brother and sister, I find so much comfort in them especially when I dont feel well, they sure do sense it.

I love to sing, it is good exercise for my lungs, apparantly "Missy" enjoys it to ! I wish you all a good day !

Breathe Easy,

Sandy

123 Inhale, 1234 Exhale

Oral Thrush

2007-10-09T17:40:00.000-05:00

I recently received an e-mail from a patient in regards to an infection she developed in her mouth due to her (MDI) Metered dose inhaler. I think this is an important topic to talk about so all of us using MDI's can be extra careful.

This infection is called "Thrush". It is a yeast infection of the mucous membranes of the mouth, effecting the cheeks, tongue and roof of the mouth.

Folks usually get "Thrush" from not rinsing well after use of their inhalers. The chemicals in the medicine stick inside your mouth, causing the infection which consists of open sores. This infection is a side effect of taking inhaled corticosteroids.

I was using an MDI with steroids and because I did not rinse after eash use, the medicine stayed inside my mouth. After a while it became so sore and nasty. If I had rinsed after each use, I could have lessened the severity of the infection.

These sores are quite painful, keeping you on a diet of soft foods and liquids.
Your Pulmonary doctor will most likely prescribe an anti-fungal mouthwash or lozenges, which are used for 5-10 days. This infection does not clear up over night, if you are still having a problem after the prescribed time frame. Give your dr. another call, he may prescribe other meds for you.

A few suggestions to help you beat the "Thrush":

- Rinse... Rinse your mouth after every MDI use. (do not swallow!)
- Yogurt... Eat at least 1/2 cup to coat your mouth after using the inhaler.
- Spacer... Use a spacer which is a medical device approved by the FDA to be used by a patient to increase the effectiveness and safety of a metered-dose inhaler.

I have included a link that will give you more information on "Thrush" and the use of a spacer on your MDI.

http://www.radix.net/~mwg/inhalers.html

I hope this bit of info has helped you! Please dont' be afraid to share your own stories with us or any questions you may have. We are all here to help each other.

Breathe easy,
Sandy

1 2 3... Inhale ... 1 2 3 4... Exhale

Adopt the Sky

2007-10-07T14:05:00.000-05:00

I am a member of COPDsurvivors by Cecil Montgomery and Karen Bastille. The following link was sent out by their site and I would now like to share it here "In My Little Corner Of The World".

On June 21, 2007, the EPA proposed stronger limits on smog in our air. But doctors and scientists say the new limits do not go far enough. Now powerful polluters are pushing back, trying to stop any change. Here's your chance to make your voice heard.

Click the link below and adopt a square mile of sky over the U.S. and sign the petition to demand clean air now. It’s free.

adoptthesky.org

Help ALL Americans Breathe Clean Air!!

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

1 2 3... Inhale ... 1 2 3 4... Exhale

Healthy Eating for COPD Patients

2007-09-25T18:51:00.000-05:00

How many COPD patients can relate to this... "It takes a lot of effort to eat large amounts of food." As for myself, if I try to put too much in my mouth, I do get short of breath. It is hard to chew, swallow and breathe when your lung functions are not good. Therefore, eating small amounts of food at a time is recommended due to the energy used to chew and swallow. This is something they teach you if you attend Pulmonary Rehab classes.

I have listed a few facts that I hope will help you begin to "Eat Healthy". This is so important for those of us with COPD.

- Fish Oil and supplemental omega-2 fatty acids. Although no strong evidence supports this, researchers believe that fish oil may be beneficial for COPD patients as they have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects on the body.
- Vegetables. High amounts of antioxidants are found in fresh, green and yellow-orange veggies. Such as kale, spinach, brussel sprouts, alfalfa sprouts, broccoli, beets and red bell peppers.
- Protein and Fats. A diet low in fat is best for healthy individuals. But for COPD patients, we need a greater amount of fat... healthy fat... in our diets. Proteins from fish, poultry, lean meats, also olive oils and oily fish are good to include in your diet.
- Fruits. Fruits are loaded with vitamins and easy to chew. Berries, peaches, plums, prunes, raisins, grapes, kiwi fruit, cherries, and oranges are high in antioxidants. Very good for your diet!

As you can see we have mentioned "Antioxidants" several times in our diet. Why? Because antioxidants fight disease by helping to repair damaged cells that are affected by the oxidation process which occurs during normal cell functioning. Vitamin A and carotenoids, C, E, selenium, flavonoids, lycopene, lutein and lignan all make up antioxidants.

- Dietary Supplements. Zinc and selenium in foods may help to reduce the severity of upper respiratory tract infections, but there is little evidence that vitamins and minerals have any ability to improve lung function. Please talk to your doctor before adding any dietary supplements to your diet.
- Red Wine. Research has shown that the chemical resveratrol, which is found in red wine, grapes and olive oil, can have health benefits. Also, some researchers believe that used in moderation, red wine may even provide protection to the lungs. It also should be noted that a high intake of wine can have a reverse effect, which may cause weakening of the immune system. Again, talk to your doctor before including alcohol or red wine to your diet.

You will find alot of information on the internet concerning "Healthy Eating for COPD Patients". My recommendation is to talk to your Pulmonologist about what foods are good for "your body" and "your health". We all may read something on a website or in a book and feel that this will "cure" us, as it is written in stone.
I would like to share with you a sad but true story written by Lori Palermo about her dad Wayne Litzenberger who passed away of COPD/Emphysema.

http://www.loveyourlungsbreatheforlife.com/arayofhope.html

Eat Well My Friends and Breathe Easy,
Sandy

1 2 3... Inhale ... 1 2 3 4... Exhale

A Women's Lung Health Luncheon

2007-09-21T20:47:00.000-05:00

I received a very special phone call this week that I could not wait to share with all of you. You see, I have felt for a very long time that my "lot in life" was to help other human beings... to reach out to COPD and other Lung Disease patients. Starting my own BLOG has brought me so much joy and satisfaction knowing that I AM reaching out to these patients and making a difference.

Now to tell you my exciting news! The special phone call I received was from Mr. Kurt Goerke, the Regional Director/State Camp Director for the American Lung Association of Florida Inc. Gulfcoast Area, (I met Mr. Goerke at the Asthma Walk last spring).
Mr. Goerke invited me to the "Catch Your Breath" Women's Lung Health Luncheon to be held on Friday, October 12, 2007 at the Bonefish Grill, Fort Myers, FL. To say the least, I am ecstatic to receive this special invitation. Mr. Goerke also mentioned that he "has seen what I am doing on-line and greatly admires how I am reaching out to others."

The luncheon will be of great interest as their program consists of Speakers & Presenters from the Lee Cancer Care and Health Park Pulmonary Associates. Also Personal Testimonials from a Lung Cancer Survivor, a Lung Cancer Victim's Daughter and a Chronic Asthmatic.

For me to receive such a marvelous compliment from a wonderful person made me feel great! I will be attending the luncheon with honor. I hope you will look forward to my post after the luncheon, as I will tell you all about it!

Let us all reach out to one another and share our "Breath for Life".

1 2 3... Inhale ... 1 2 3 4... Exhale

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

http://www.catchyourbreathfortmyers.com

http://www.loveyourlungsbreatheforlife.com/blowthewhistleonasthm.html

Using O2 but still Smoking?

2007-09-18T19:13:00.000-05:00

I would like to tell you about an incident that I observed in a restarurant the other day, which brought back memories of my "smoking days".

As a former smoker, I can relate to how very difficult it is to give up a bad habit. It wasn't easy quitting. I was fortunate that I had a great support team... my family and friends! It was difficult at first. I actually did it for my great nieces, right after they were born. I was at my nephews house for Christmas and my niece brought the twins over for a visit. I really could not hold them because I could smell the acrid cigarette smoke on my clothes. I did not want them to be subjected to the secondhand smoke odor no matter how young they were. So, that was the beginning of the end... of my "Smoking Days"! Those girls were my inspiration. I am thankful that I stopped smoking. I have been smokefree now for over five years and feel this is a major accomplishment for me! Every now and then I do get the desire to have a "smoke"... but then I remember where I was five years ago and how far I have come.

What brought that story on is this: I was visiting a restaurant the other day and happened to see a woman come in wearing an O2 cannula. I thought "how lucky I am that I do not have to be on O2". The woman went outside to sit in the smoking section. The next thing I noticed, she had taken her oxygen off and lit up a cigarette! Her cough was awful! Once she finished her cigarette she put her O2 back on. I imagine she just needed those few puffs to make her feel better??...

What do you think?

I am not exactly sure how I feel. At this point in my life I don't believe I would pick up another cigarette, but then if that "stressful situation" arises... what would I do? Again, being an ex-smoker, I know how hard it is to quit. But on the other hand... if you need oxygen on a daily basis, your lungs must be in pretty bad shape. So, why would you continue smoking?

I try each and every day to help myself to do the best I can with what I have... COPD/Emphysema and Asthma, all as a result of Cigarette Smoking.

I ask you all to please share your stories with me. You may send me a private e-mail or I will share your story with our readers if you would like.

1 2 3... Inhale ... 1 2 3 4... Exhale

Breathe Easy,
Sandy

I would like you all to meet my great nieces Lauren and Haley, the two beautiful little girls who were truly my inspiration to quit smoking. The girls will be 5 years old on 27 September 2007. Also my "quit date" anniversary of "Big Tobacco"!

Caregivers are Special People

2007-09-07T05:20:00.000-05:00

I received an e-mail the other day from someone who was not only a friend but was was also my caregiver. Kathy read my BLOG and would like me to share her e-mail with all of you. But, before I do that I will give you a bit of a history lesson!

Kathy was/is a very dear friend of mine, we have known each other for many years. She was my caregiver when I was first diagnosed with CFIDS, Fibromyalgia, and a few other illnesses. Kathy was always there to help me... shower, dress and with eating. At the time I was first diagnosed with these illnesses, I was in complete bed rest, unable to use any motor skills. I couldn't stand on my own and had to have assistance to the bathroom. I can remember I found myself reading one word out of the dictionary because I had no control of my thought process. In order to use it... and not completely lose it, I would read one word for weeks until I could remember it.
I am grateful for each day that I can get our of bed and appreciate life... and I know that she played a huge part in helping me recover.

"Sandy,
I wanted everyone to know that I know, how much music does mean to you. I've known nyou for almost 30 years and some of the happiest times we spent was you singing along with the music and doing your karaoke. The music has helped you through some of the toughest times in your life. It's kept you going... and me too!

I've been there too with your family and saw how much everyone enjoyed the get togethers and sing-a-longs. Everyone had such great voices! The way your mother always whistled!!! I know where you get it from.

I miss hearing you sing, but I'm glad to know that you are still doing it.

Love,
Kathy"

Thank you all for allowing me to share a "piece of my past" with you.

http://www.nfcacares.org/about_nfca/

Please don't forget our breathing...

1 2 3... Inhale ... 1 2 3 4 Exhale
Sandy

Become a Smokefree Living Advocate

2007-08-29T20:11:00.000-05:00

I hope you are all doing well tonight.
As for myself, I am still dealing with pain from the "shingles". Some of them have opened, others are slowly fading... but the pain is still intense.

As we are now in an era of trying to live "Smokefree Lives", there are sites in which you can join where you may voice your opinion to your Senators, Congressmen, etc. on TAKE ACTION issues.

I have joined the American Lung Association, receiving newsletters on a daily, weekly basis. I took action on the most recent: "Harmful Effects of Tobacco". I was very happy to receive a reply e-mail from Senator Nelson of Florida.

Dear Ms. Grace:

Thank you for contacting me with your concerns about smoking.

Medical science continually reveals new research magnifying the harmful
effects of tobacco. The link between cancer and tobacco has been well
publicized, but smoking is also a risk factor for the development of
countless other diseases. The costs society bears to treat these
illnesses are staggering especially when you consider the countless
resources allocated to battle often-preventable diseases.

There is no question that measures can be taken to reduce society's
dependence on tobacco. Of particular importance is educating children
about the dangers of smoking in order to prevent them from ever starting
the habit, and ensuring that tobacco companies do not market their
products to children.

Additionally, I believe we can act to lessen the harmful consequences of
smoking. To this end I cosponsored S. 625, the Family Smoking Prevention
and Tobacco Control Act. This bill would provide the Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) authority to regulate tobacco products with the
goal of reducing the number of people who start smoking and increasing
the number of people who quit smoking. S. 625 has been referred to the
Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

I appreciate your concerns about smoking. As tobacco related issues
arise in the future, I will be sure to keep your opinions in mind.

P.S. From time to time, I compile electronic news briefs highlighting
key issues and hot topics of particular importance to Floridians. If
you'd like to receive these e-briefs, visit my Web site and sign up for
them at http://billnelson.senate.gov/news/ebriefs.cfm

My thoughts are we all need to "Get Involved" and "Take Action on issues that we strongly believe in.

If you follow the attached link, it will take you to a "Smokefree Advocates" Page on Lori's site. Here you may take a look at several sites to become involved with.

http://www.loveyourlungsbreatheforlife.com/smokefreeliving/smokefreeadvocates.html

http://www.lungusa.org/site/pp.asp?c=dvLUK9O0E&b=22542

Breathe Well My Friends... Living Smokefree

1 2 3... Inhale ... 1 2 3 4... Exhale

Sandy

Looks Like Shingles... OUCH!

2007-08-23T22:25:00.000-05:00

Greetings from the "Sunshine State"

The first sign of Shingles may include itching, tingling, and burning. A few days later a blistering rash appears which can last up to 30 days!

I would like to share with you my very painful past few weeks! This is how it happened. Around August 12th, I seemed to have developed an ear ache, so I bought ear drops. I used them for a few days and thought my ear was feeling a little bit better.. although I felt a numbness. I thought it was the chamomile drops numbing my ear or rather the pain! But also my neck was sore to touch and actually my skin hurt to the touch it. The following day I saw awful blisters on my upper torso, to include my chest area, arm, under arm, neck front and back... I immediately called my doctor and got an appointment that day. As soon as he walked in and saw me, he said... "UH OH looks like shingles!"

What to do? He prescribed Vicoden for the excruciating pain. I cannot even begin to tell you how much pain I was in. Acyclovir 800 mg, 5 X's a day for 10 days which is an antibiotic. I started the regimen of pain pills, to my chagrin... the Vicoden did not even touch the pain. I called my doctor again, explaining to the nurse that I just could not take this pain any longer. Within a few minutes she called me back with a stronger prescription.

The new meds indicated, take one tablet every 6 hrs. as needed for pain. Sure enough it did help and finally after a few days of complete bed rest, I was able to get up and actually start to eat a bit. Because of the awful pain I could not eat, only drink water and take my regular meds and the "shingles" meds. Altho I did my best to eat some crackers and jello.. yummy!!

My biggest concern with the pain meds was that it could have created a problem with my breathing. Because of the nature of these drugs, there is a big warning on the bottle "Taking more of this medication then recommended may cause serious breathing problems."
Needless to say, I was very careful in taking them.

Something that we should all be aware of is that: "We need to be careful with any different medications we may need to take. If possible, research the side effects and reactions that could occur while taking these along with our 'normal' meds." Also remember... do not be afraid to ask you doctor any questions you may have.

Today is a better day, altho I still have some pain on the right side of my neck. From what I have read, sometimes there is residual pain from the shingles and it is called, (PHN) Postherpetic Neuralgia. The pain from shingles can range from burning or throbbing to a pain that is stabbing or shooting. In my case the shooting and stabbing would apply! I can only hope that this will go away quietly and stay away.

I know most people wonder... "what causes shingles?" Well, from what I have researched, if you have had Chickenpox than you are at risk for this potentially serious and painful disease.
Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. The virus can remain inactive in your body for years. If the virus becomes active, you can get a case of the shingles. What causes the virus to become active... stress and perhaps a weakened immune system.

One thing I mentioned in the beginning of my post is that at the time I was using the ear drops, I assumed the drops were causing the numbness to my ear. But after being diagnosed with shingles...I read that they can cause numbness to the ear if the outbreak is in that area.

I have attached a site link with more information about "SHINGLES".

If anyone has had this type of experience, please write in and share this with us. It is very helpful and important for all of us to beable to learn and share together.

Breathe with all the strength that you have my friends,

1 2 3... Inhale ... 1 2 3 4... Exhale

Sandy

http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/shingles/shingles.htm

Singing makes me smile!

2007-08-16T05:21:00.000-05:00

Singing brings a SMILE to my face!!

When I was younger... many moons ago, my cousins, aunts and my mom would gather in the kitchen to play their guitars and sing. I loved watching all of them and the beautiful sounds of the guitars. But what I loved the most was the wonderful sound of my moms voice, she could sing like a canary and whistle like a lark, what beautiful memories.

Over the years I tried my talent, singing alone so no one could hear me. When I got older, one night I was at a club and they had a talent show, my friends encouraged me to get up on stage and sing.... which I did!!! Later that night the club owner approached me and asked if I would come back on a regular basis to sing. WOW!! I was shocked... I didn't think I was good enough, but apparently he did! I "thanked" him for the nice offer, but declined. As many of my friends know me I am not shy, but I really wasn't ready for the "big time"! I just wanted to enjoy my music and sing for my friends to make THEM smile as much as I do when I listen to music.

About 7 years ago I ws singing at a Karaoke Club and actually had a request to sing different songs for the regulars.... "that made me smile"!

Then it hit... I was diagnosed with COPD/Emphysema... "dang it"! I didn't think I would beable to sing again. But do you know what?... It's okay now, I have learned how to work with "it" - COPD/Emphysema. The best thing for me is to keep singing. It helps expand my lungs and also... gets that trapped air out so that I can "Breathe in Fresh Air".

You see, I have a wonderful tool... my "Mind", that is how I deal with this crappy disease on a daily basis. I use to get out of breath when I sang, but I don't anymore because I have trained myself how to take breaths when necessary. I have done much research with regards to singing and breathing techniques.

Music truly does make me smile! Even as I am writing this BLOG I am SMILING... and I have a CD playing on my computer. I love to sing country, blues and soft ballads. I especially love to sing Irish tunes!

I hope many of you can relate to the wonderful sounds of music and all of the benefits that come from it... most importantly... how it makes "YOU SMILE"!

Please share with us your stories about the music in your life. Whether you have a lung disease or not... share with us your love for music!

I am also interested in patients using O2, is there anyone out there that is able to sing, while on oxygen? I would think it would depend on the individual, but again... let me hear from you!!

http://www.vocalist.org.uk/breathing_techniques.html

Relax and breathe through the sounds of music

1 2 3... Inhale ... 1 2 3 4 Exhale

Sandy

Community swimming pools - germs & more germs...

2007-08-12T17:21:00.000-05:00

On a clear day, rise and look around you. And you'll see who you are.
A beautiful song that just popped into my head!!

For several months now a girlfriend and I have been going to the community swimming for senior water aerobics. Usually about a 45 minute workout each day.
I just found out that it is NOT the best avenue for exercise.
I was instructed not to use the pool because of the GERMS and BACTERIA in the water. Well you know that some people do their **** in the pool... YUCK... and even though they use chlorine, it does not kill all of the bacteria. So, I will be exercising indoors with my exercising techniques that we posted earlier in our blog.

Also, with anyone having an open wound, the bacteria in the water is not good. The bacteria or chlorine may cause an infection to set in.

If you have breathing problems but enjoy swimming, try to stay in the shallow sections. I did notice a shortness of breath because of the pressure in the deeper water.

Just a few tips that I thought you may be interested in!! I am sure by now you know my reaction to GERMS!!!!!! I am scared to death of them. So when a doctor tells me to "Stay Away"..... by golly that's what I do!!

"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away."

1 2 3 ... Inhale ... 1 2 3 4 ... Exhale

Your fellow COPD'er,
Sandy

The Love of a Family - by Lori Palermo

2007-08-09T20:10:00.000-05:00

I would like to share with all of you a Montage Video that I put together In Loving Memory of my dad, Wayne. For those of you who do not know, my dad passed away 26 December 2003 after a 13 year battle with COPD/Emphysema. Since that time I became very involved in lung disease and smokefree living work. In June 2006, on Father's Day, I launched my own website In Memory of my dad and In Honor of all patients and their caregivers who live every day with the debilitating Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. I have now become an Advocate For Lung Disease Awareness & Smokefree Living.

This video shows what a kind, caring, and loving husband, father and grandfather my dad was. He was truly the #1 Dad!

I love him and miss him with all my heart.

God bless,
Lori

Please scroll down to the bottom of the page to view the video.

A Lesson in Diaphragmatic Breathing

2007-08-09T18:46:00.000-05:00

Good Evening Folks,

It's a very warm evening here in sunny Florida!! But who's complaining, as long as we have air conditioning... thats all that counts!!

I would like to take you back to Lori Palermo's vacation with me at Ft. Myers Beach last month. One evening Lori and I were talking about her dad being barrel chested with his COPD and the different ways he would sit when he tried to breathe. I began explaining to her how we COPD'ers breathe differently than "Other Folks". Meaning that we use "Diaphragm Breathing". When folks without a breathing problem "inhale" their stomach goes in... but when we take a "breath" or "inhale" our stomach goes out. Lori and I practiced for quite awhile.

We had a good time and it was funny watching her... LOL, but it was also very educational. You actually had to be there to see us... both of us sitting face to face, our shirts tucked up, with our hand placed on our stomach, being able to feel and see the difference in our breathing technique. It's one of those things that you really have to concentrate on what you are trying to do... just ask Lori!! After several tries... well maybe MANY, MANY tries.... she finally accomplished the breathing technique. I even got a bit confused myself trying to go back and forth between her "normal" breathing and our COPD'ers breathing!

Now you ask... Why do we do this? Well, we are trying to exhale the stale air in
our lungs and exchange it for good clean air.

Put your hand on your stomach and practice your "Diaphragmatic Breathing".

I have attached two sites that will give you more information on Diaphragm Breathing.

http://www.pe2000.com/breathe.htm

http://www.petethomas.co.uk/saxophone-diaphragm.html

Breathe well my friends, breathing is how we live!

1 2 3... Inhale ... 1 2 3 4 Exhale

Sandy

Pursed Lip Breathing

2007-08-03T18:36:00.000-05:00

Hello to all my friends!

I hope you are all having a Healthy and Happy summer! It's hard to believe we are already into August.
I just returned home from a fun-filled vacation, visiting family and friends in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Funny... I needed to come home to rest... from my vacation!!
While on vacation, I woke up thinking about "pursed lip breathing"! I realized I had not added that important piece of information to my "Breathless on the Beach" post.

So, here we go......

When Lori and I returned back to our destination from our walk on the beach...
well let me back up a bit, when I told Lori that I was becoming "short of breath" and anxiety was grabbing hold of me I also told her to keep talking to me so that I could focus on her conversation and not on being "SOB" and my "anxiety". One very important factor was that as we were walking back and Lori was talking to me I was also practicing my "pursed lip breathing". This type of breathing "controls your breathing", slows down your anxiety and helps you from gasping for your next breath...as long as you "stay focused".
As Lori and I returned from our walk, I mentioned to her how the "pursed lip breathing" had also helped me. She told me she saw that I was "PLB". She remembered seeing her dad use this breathing method many many times. But never truly understood its meaning and effectiveness until she saw how it helped me get through this situation.
Here is a link to an informative site about pursed lip breathing.

http://lungdiseases.about.com/od/generalinformation1/a/shortofbreath.htm

I would be very interested in hearing what type of breathing methods help your "anxiety" and "shortness of breath" situations. Please write to me and share your stories.

Live each and every day to its very fullest....

1 2 3 Inhale ... 1 2 3 4 Exhale
Sandy

Breathless on the Beach

2007-07-22T08:52:00.000-05:00

I would like to share this experience with all of you, it is very important to remember and practice this in case you are ever in this same type of situation. You must know how to react and how to take care of yourself.
The first evening Lori was at Ft Myers, we decide to head straight for the beach to take a walk. It was still warm, but the sun was beginning to set and the sky was a beautiful array of clouds and brilliant colors of orange, yellows and reds. We were walking along the shores feeling the warm sand and water on our feet, and searching for sea shells. Since it was the first time we had actually met in 2-3 years, we were just talking about anything and everything.
All of a sudden I had to stop, I told Lori that I was getting short of breath and anxiety was grabbing hold of me. We had walked so far without even realizing it.
I became scared knowing that we had to walk so far back. My shortness of breath scared me.... my anxiety scared me.... it became a viscious circle.
I explained to Lori what was happening, but told her to remain calm. I knew what I had to do to overcome this situation. I asked her to keep talking, that way I could concentrate on her conversation and overcome my anxiety by not focusing on it. By overcoming my anxiety, I could also overcome my "shortness of breath". Of course I did not have my "rescue inhaler"... which was a big no-no!!! If I would have had the inhaler with me, the situation would have been a whole lot less stressful. But... we all make these mistakes.
Lori and I took our time walking back, she talked to me and I focused on HER... NOT on my "Shortness of Breath". By the time we got back to our destination, I was feeling fine. I had made it through a very stressful and I may say "scarey" situation.
As Lori has been learning so much about COPD since her dad passed away..... this was a very good "hands on" experience for her to witness.
Please take this experience and try to learn from it. It may not be easy the first, second or third time..... but you can do. You can take control of your anxiety and your shortness of breath.

If anyone has had an experience of this type... please write in and tell us all about it. Let us know how YOU came through it.

Until next time
1 2 3... Inhale ... 1 2 3 4 Exhale

Breathing is our Lifeline,
Sandy

A Message from Lori Palermo

2007-07-22T08:41:00.000-05:00

Good Morning from the beautiful Pocono Mountains in Northeast Pennsylvania. It is a gorgeous day here. I hope everyone is having a "blessed breathing day" so far!
Since I have not added a BLOG for Sandy, I would like to say a word or two before she adds her BLOG.
Sandy and I have been corresponding by e-mail for the past 2-3 years. We have spoke on the phone and become very good friends. Several months ago, Sandy invited me to fly to Florida and spend a week with her. Well... needless to say, I immediately booked my flight. I recently spent a week with Sandy on the absolutely beautifl white sandy beaches of Ft. Myers, Florida... a place where my dad loved and took my family many times.
Sandy is an awesome person. We bonded the moment she picked me up at the airport and had an absolute BALL the whole week I was there. I visited her home, where I met her friends Linda, Joan and Linda's son Nick. They are truly really cool people and were very generous to me.

Now, Sandy will add a BLOG about an experience that we had while walking the beach the first evening I was there.

God bless you all.
Lori

P.S. Sandy and I are working on some ideas we have to give you the COPD patients, families or caregivers more information. You'll will be seeing some changes here at
"Sandy's Little Corner Of The World."

Upper & Lower Extremity Chair Exercises

2007-06-20T18:51:00.001-05:00

Greetings all of my friends! I hope you have had a good breathing day. The humidity has hampered my breathing with a bit more tightness in my chest. But, as usual... we all do learn to cope with this.

Upper Extremity Chair Exercises:
For shoulder strengthening you may now grasp the seat or side arms of the chair and push down and pull up.

Another useful activity are the "Broomstick Exercises".
- Use the full length of an old broomstick, and use it to both mobilize and strengthen your upper extremities, and to develop neck and spine mobilization.

- Holding the broom palms down, bring the broomstick from yourlap up to your chin, and from there extend the broomstick over your head, and then back again.

- Palms down, place the broomstick over your knees, and then with arms extended swing it up and over your head and back down again.

- With the broomstick over your head, rotate the broomstick and your head slowly as far as you can to the right, and then to the left.

- With the broomstick held at chin level, bring the broomstick straight down towards the left hip, and then to the right hip.

- With the broomstick heldat chin level, touch the right end of the broomstick to the left knee, and at the same time look up over your left shoulder. Repeat this exercise touching the left end of the broomstick to the right knee,while looking up over your right shoulder. These neck and spine mobilization exercises may be difficult at first if your neck and spine are stiff. Be gentle.

As your strength improves, light weight dumb-bells may be used. Again, one or two pound weights are more than enough.

Lower Extremity Chair Exercises:

The quadriceps exercises should be done from the chair one leg at a time. Straighten your right leg out, then lift it from the floor until it is straight out, then tense the thigh muscles and hold the tension for five seconds. Relax, andn lower your leg to the floor and rest for five seconds. Repeat the cycle and then do the same for the left leg.

These quadriceps exercises may be too strenuous at first for some. In that case, start out with both feet flat on the floor, and tense both thighs for five seconds, relax for five seconds, and repeat the cycles.

For hip strengthening, sit up straight, knees together, and then lift the right knee up, then swing it outward, put the foot down, then bring it back up, and return to the starting position with the knees touching. Repeat the cycle and do the same for the left leg.

For hip, lower abdominal and lower spine exercise, place your heels directly in front of the chair, and then push your heels into the floor. As you do this, tense your lower abdominal and back muscles. Hold this tension for five seconds, relax for five seconds and repeat the cycle.

If you do these excercises faithfully for about two weeks, you should now be prepared to begin walking training. And if you have been further developing your dyspnea recognition skills and breathing control skills, you will be even better prepared for walking and controlling any dyspnea with increased activity.

With all of these exercises, from the beginning... at your weakest point, through your continuation of becoming stronger... I strongly suggest a coach to help and support you through this regiment of activity.

Stand Tall and Breathe My Friends and Always Remember,

1 2 3... Inhale... 1 2 3 4 Exhale
Sandy

Lower Extremity Exercises

2007-05-31T14:44:00.000-05:00

Welcome To My Little Corner Of The World... here on this beautiful sunny, yet slightly breezy day in Lehigh Acres, Florida!!

I'd like to talk about your lower extremity muscles, which are the Quadriceps Muscles. These are on the front of your thighs and run between your knees and hips. These muscles are very important because they stabilize the knee, and are essential to enable safe walking and getting up out of a chair. Quadriceps deterioration happens very rapidly in people confined to bed. Restoring their strength is a crucial step in preparing to get our of bed to a chair, and to walk safely.

The Quadriceps may be exercised by having your legs flat in bed, and then tensing the upper leg muscles firmly for five second, then relaxing for five seconds, and then repeating the cycle for two or three times. As in the previous POST, build up this exercise as your strength improves.

Another lower extremity exercise is to strengthen the muscles about your hips and lower abdomen. Have your legs flat in bed, press your heels firmly into the mattress for five seconds, relax for five seconds, then raise your heels an inch or two off the mattress for five seconds, then relax for five seconds, repeat the cycle tow or three times. Again, build up this exercise s your strength improves.

If you have been confined to a bed for some time, or feel weak, you should never attempt to get out of bed without assistance. Professional supervision by a Nurse or Physical Therapist is preferred.
Your initial chair should be a firm plain wood chair with a high back, with side arms. A Walker device for additional arm support should also be used for the transfer from bed to chair. Preferably two caregivers should be on hand to help you. Wearing a stout Safety Belt until you are well mobilized is recommended.

When you are ready for the move, do not attempt to directly stand on the floor. Many weak patients develop Postural Hypotension, where your blood pressure quickly falls on standing up. This can lead to dizziness, fainting or falling. You should first, dangle your legs for a couple of minutes, if no dizziness is felt, then place your feet on the floor for a minute or two. If you feel the slightest hint of dizziness or exessive weakness, you can easily be slid back into bed. Do not get discouraged if you don't succeed on your first try. Progress to the chair only when you feel able to do so. Recommendation spending no more than five or ten minuts in the chair for the first time.

As your strength improves and your caregivers gain confidence in your capabilities, you may spend more time in the wooden chair, and then move into an easy more comfortable chair. Getting out of a deeper easy chair may be more difficult, so be sure your standing up strength and skills are adequate.

Well folks.... I think I have given you plenty of information to think about today.

Until we meet again... 1 2 3 Inhale ... 1 2 3 4 Exhale

Sandy

Beginning exercise for the frail person with COPD

2007-05-24T11:32:00.000-05:00

Hello again, and I hope everyone is having a lovely day!

Some persons with severe COPD are so severly debilitated and weakened they are confined to bed, or so weakened they have great difficulty getting into a chair. Ideally such patients should have initial professional help from a Visiting Nurse service, who in turn, may be able to arrange for a temporary visiting Physical Therapist.

Even if bedridden, the patient can and should begin their rehabilitation with chest mobilization and corrective breathing training, as well as developing Pursed Lip Breathing skills. This should provide some dyspnea relief, and having some breathig control skills will be helpful later when exerting and needing more ventilation.

Exercises that anyone can do are called "Isometric Exercises." This is simply tensing muscle groups against one another. This type of exercise can be done by anyone, even those with severe arthritis problems, as there is little or no movement of joints involved.

For now, I will get you started with the Upper Extremity Exercises.
Upper extremity exercises for those confined to bed, may be done by clasping your hands in front of you, next to the chest. Then press your hands together, and maintain this tension to the count of five. Repeat this cycle two or three times until you can do this exercise fairly easily. This will strengthen your shoulder muscles.
Do this exercise (and all of the other exercises) at least every two hours, and preferably every hour. Then build up your strength by a combination of stronger pressures, longer times of applying pressure, and more cycle repetitions. You have to decide what is best for you, but initially stay with pressure times of about five seconds until you are stronger.
Another shoulder muscle exercise is to place your hands by your side, palms down, next to your hips, then press your hands firmly into the bed to the count of five, relax to the count of five, and then repeat the cycle two or three times. Extend this exercise in a manner noted above as you get stronger.

Good luck my friends, I know exercise is not easy when your feeling poorly, but believe me... it will help you.

Enjoy your day,

Sandy

1 2 3... Inhale ... 1 2 3 4 Exhale