Well, everyone has stress. There's good stress and bad stress. Then there's stress caused by terror and it's aftermath.
Last week, our family endured that kind of stress and this week is the aftermath.
If you live in the area, I'm sure you read about it or saw it on TV and maybe didn't make the connection. If you live outside our area, you didn't even know it happened. A murder in a small town. Doesn't happen often here. Last murder here was 5 years ago. The last significant assault was 2 years ago. Even bar fights are rare.
Last week, Greg and I were in the shop. Doug and Fred were delivering a car, Brian was still out on leave, no customers, no parts delivery people around - Thank God. We heard what sounded like an accident out front. Tires squealing, bangs and then yelling. Greg walked around the vehicle he was working on to look outside when the van that was rammed by the truck came to a screeching stop in front of bay 2. A woman started screaming that "they" had killed her husband and were after her van (?). By this time, I was out of the office and had started to look out towards the road. Then I saw a woman with a baseball bat. She was hitting the ground, hard, with the bat and screaming. I looked to the left and saw a man, Hispanic, comming towards the shop armed with a gun - it looked like a shotgun. I screamed, "He's got a gun!" and dove for the office. I didn't see Greg. I thought I saw a kid get out of the van and I never saw the woman get out of the van. I also lost track of the woman with the bat. I slammed the door and dialed 911. They answered on the first ring and I admit that I was just a little hysterical. I managed to tell them that a man with a gun was there, gave them our address, twice, and then the man entered our shop and walked to the back. Remember, I still didn't know where Greg was. After about 15 seconds or so, he came back out. I told the 911 operator that he was leaving. At that point the operator told me that the Police should be on scene by now, could I look out and see? Then, just as I was ready to open the door, the woman with the bat came in and saw me through the glass. She said, "Where's the boy?". I shook my head and she went to the van, looked inside and then walked away. Now I feared for the boy's well-being - she had a bat and looked so angry!
I finally got out of the office and looked outside. I saw the cop, I saw Greg! He was walking towards me, obviously upset. He asked if I was alright and then asked, "where's the girl?" I almost asked him who he was talking about and then I heard a moan behind me. I turned and saw a woman covered from head to toe in fresh blood. She was leaning against the door jam to our parts room. I screamed for Greg to call an ambulance and helped her to the bench by the counter. I ran into the back room to get shop towels and saw where he had beat her with the bun - to the point of breaking it into multiple pieces.
The QR team arrived. At this point I found out that her husband/boyfriend had been fatally shot. She kept asking for him and her son. I assured her that the boy was safe (Greg had gotten him and two little girls playing next door into the house while he was trying to get 911 on his cell phone), I told her that I didn't know about her husband. She was drifting in and out from at least 3 head wounds and pain from two broken arms. I was in "nurse mode". Pressure to wounds, C-spine precautions (ha), collar applied. Keeping her oriented and awake. Medics arrived and took over.
By this time, multiple police agencies, CSI and detectives were there. Our local police chief, a former state police detective was there. As he's also a friend, it was comforting to have him there. Now, all this happened the last half hour of the business day on a Friday. In a small town, news travels fast and the rumors were flying. When it got out that the two men (the shooter and the victim) were brothers - then the rumors go really wild as Greg and Doug are brothers. My son, Keith, was at college and was fielding calls from friends asking what had happened and he couldn't get ahold of us for nearly an hour. When he did, we gave him the details and he spent the next 2 hours on the phone. Greg's mom, one of our first calls, also fielded calls at home. We were at the shop until almost 11:00 PM.
The next day we went to the MSU/Michigan game. We hid out, away from home and questions, and had a day of diversion. Greg was and still is upset. I was able to compartamentalize most of it until I tried to sleep. It's been a week now, the blood has been cleaned up, the shooter was denied bail and has a hearing on Tuesday, the 11th. If he pleads guilty (and from what we've heard, he is showing no remorse) then it will be over. If not, we'll wind up in court to testify.
But for now, coping with the stress is most important. A little xanax, diversion or two, time with the kids, work - all help. Prayers of friends and family, our church have been gratefully accepted and appreciated. We went to the football game last night. Homecoming. We beat our opponent 35 - 0. Life goes on. The news stories have moved on to the next crisis. We're going to start Christmas shopping. One way or another, we will live our lives and pray that we are never again witnesses to such inhuman behavior. Unfortunately, it's too human and such an old story - all the way back to Cain and Able. Brother against brother. Will we ever learn?
Saturday, October 08, 2005
Sunday, September 04, 2005
Katrina
Natural disasters bring out the best and the worst in people.
The best is the outpouring of money, goods, prayers, offers of shelter, education, food, and all other assistance.
The worst are the criminals that rape, beat, murder fellow refugees, shoot at those rescuers there to help, steal TV's in an area with no hope of electricity for quite awhile, etc.....
So what's a society to do? We can only do our best, pray that the worst will be resolved and that the rescuers don't throw up their hands in dismay and just leave.
Listening to the news people, you would think that the government should have been there with magic to produce food, water, flushing toilets, instant electricity and thousands of buses, gased and waiting to move thousands of people who had refused to move when told to leave before the stomes struck. I heard one go so far as to accuse President Bush of no caring. Of course he neglected to mention that the President had already declared a state of emergency for 3 states and asked Congress for money BEFORE KATRINA STRUCK. Congress didn't approve the money until 4 days AFTER the hurricane.
Police and Fire fighters, FEMA workers and National Guard are all there to help. More are arriving everyday. The Red Cross has members from all over the country manning the shelters set up for refugees. They have food, water, meds, blankets and a shoulder to cry on. In time of disaster that is what we, as Americans, do to help. We do it for other countries, we do it for our own. So why are there people on TV screaming that we don't care, that they have been forgotten? NFL stars, singers, actors and others with ties to the areas hit are publicly and generously lending what help they can, yet so many people are "angry" according to the media.
I think, and this is just my opinion, that if the media would just shut up and let the pictures talk, maybe people would be more willing than they already are to help with money and supplies. The media only makes people angry - either at the government or at the victims. This was a NATURAL DISASTER. They happen. You can't stop them. All we can do is respond. Not instantly, just respond.
Oh, and by the way, New Orleans was not the only place wiped out. Lots of small towns, moderately sized cities, were totally wiped out. The magnitude is beyond imagining. The response is massive and will never be enough for some. Thanks and gratitude seem to be in short supply - according to the media. I prefer not to believe that. I believe that people are grateful and know that everything that can be done, is being done and is on the way.
The best is the outpouring of money, goods, prayers, offers of shelter, education, food, and all other assistance.
The worst are the criminals that rape, beat, murder fellow refugees, shoot at those rescuers there to help, steal TV's in an area with no hope of electricity for quite awhile, etc.....
So what's a society to do? We can only do our best, pray that the worst will be resolved and that the rescuers don't throw up their hands in dismay and just leave.
Listening to the news people, you would think that the government should have been there with magic to produce food, water, flushing toilets, instant electricity and thousands of buses, gased and waiting to move thousands of people who had refused to move when told to leave before the stomes struck. I heard one go so far as to accuse President Bush of no caring. Of course he neglected to mention that the President had already declared a state of emergency for 3 states and asked Congress for money BEFORE KATRINA STRUCK. Congress didn't approve the money until 4 days AFTER the hurricane.
Police and Fire fighters, FEMA workers and National Guard are all there to help. More are arriving everyday. The Red Cross has members from all over the country manning the shelters set up for refugees. They have food, water, meds, blankets and a shoulder to cry on. In time of disaster that is what we, as Americans, do to help. We do it for other countries, we do it for our own. So why are there people on TV screaming that we don't care, that they have been forgotten? NFL stars, singers, actors and others with ties to the areas hit are publicly and generously lending what help they can, yet so many people are "angry" according to the media.
I think, and this is just my opinion, that if the media would just shut up and let the pictures talk, maybe people would be more willing than they already are to help with money and supplies. The media only makes people angry - either at the government or at the victims. This was a NATURAL DISASTER. They happen. You can't stop them. All we can do is respond. Not instantly, just respond.
Oh, and by the way, New Orleans was not the only place wiped out. Lots of small towns, moderately sized cities, were totally wiped out. The magnitude is beyond imagining. The response is massive and will never be enough for some. Thanks and gratitude seem to be in short supply - according to the media. I prefer not to believe that. I believe that people are grateful and know that everything that can be done, is being done and is on the way.
Sunday, August 07, 2005
Sniffles - AGAIN !!!
As I sit here with my box of tissues, nose spray, throat spray, hot tea and blanky, I'm reminded of my previous discussions about the common cold and how to deal with it. I'm doing everything just as I should, but I still feel yucky. (that's the high tech medical term by the way).
I HATE summer colds. In the winter you can bundle up, nothings going on so you don't usually miss much, and there's usually something good on TV. Not in the summer. If you have chills, they are probably exacerbated by the air conditioning. There's always a BBQ or get together that you'll miss - not to mention weddings, outdoor concerts, swimming parties, etc... And TV? YUCK! Reruns of shows you didn't want to see the first time and stupid movies geared to people who don't even have body hair yet.
So it's a couple of books, lots of TNT (tea and tylenol), and a fresh box of tissue for me.
So, Bye for now.
I HATE summer colds. In the winter you can bundle up, nothings going on so you don't usually miss much, and there's usually something good on TV. Not in the summer. If you have chills, they are probably exacerbated by the air conditioning. There's always a BBQ or get together that you'll miss - not to mention weddings, outdoor concerts, swimming parties, etc... And TV? YUCK! Reruns of shows you didn't want to see the first time and stupid movies geared to people who don't even have body hair yet.
So it's a couple of books, lots of TNT (tea and tylenol), and a fresh box of tissue for me.
So, Bye for now.
Wednesday, July 27, 2005
MSU
Keith is IN! MSU is getting a very bright and talented Freshman this fall.
Unfortunately, because of mess ups with the high school advisor, missed deadlines, miscommunication, Keith will not be in the School of Music this fall. Despite playing 11 instruments, he did not pass an audition that he only had 3 weeks prep for (and there not really being a seat for him) BUT he's going to try again in November. He did audition at Freshman orientation and will be in the Campus Band and will try out for the Basketball pep band in October.
He's on his way - now we just have to wait for the student loans and scholarships to pay for this.
He is so excited! And so are we. It will be weird not having him around, but we got used to Joe being out of the house, so at least we know what to expect. Empty nest is not a real issue for me. I still have a husband and 2 dogs. :) Joe is going to WMU this fall and living in Kalamazoo. They are both so grown up now. I'm very proud of both of them. I look at this as my next phase of growth and developement.
PLUG FOR THE KID...... Joe is going to be in "The Taming of the Shrew" at the Celery Flats Amplitheatre next weekend 7/29 - 7/31 and again the next weekend. Hope everyone gets to see it - should be good.
Unfortunately, because of mess ups with the high school advisor, missed deadlines, miscommunication, Keith will not be in the School of Music this fall. Despite playing 11 instruments, he did not pass an audition that he only had 3 weeks prep for (and there not really being a seat for him) BUT he's going to try again in November. He did audition at Freshman orientation and will be in the Campus Band and will try out for the Basketball pep band in October.
He's on his way - now we just have to wait for the student loans and scholarships to pay for this.
He is so excited! And so are we. It will be weird not having him around, but we got used to Joe being out of the house, so at least we know what to expect. Empty nest is not a real issue for me. I still have a husband and 2 dogs. :) Joe is going to WMU this fall and living in Kalamazoo. They are both so grown up now. I'm very proud of both of them. I look at this as my next phase of growth and developement.
PLUG FOR THE KID...... Joe is going to be in "The Taming of the Shrew" at the Celery Flats Amplitheatre next weekend 7/29 - 7/31 and again the next weekend. Hope everyone gets to see it - should be good.
Sunday, July 10, 2005
Sciatica
I'll bet you a dollar to a donut that at one point in your life you have had that clenching pain that radiates from your lumbar spine, across your butt cheek to your hip. If it's really intense, it'll run right down your leg, too. Sound familiar? For most of us, this is a temporary condition that resolves with rest, ibuprofen and a heating pad. But once in awhile, it's worse than that. Especially if you don't take it easy. If you favor the affected side you can make both of your hips hurt. Even worse, you can so irritate the nerves and muscles in your back and hips that a trip to the doctor may be needed. Sometimes, a lumbar disc is the culprit. This could mean additional medications, physical therapy and sometimes even surgery.
As with most conditions, early detection, treatment, following directions and taking responsibility for your health - your state of wellness - is of paramount importance. Take charge. Be your own advocate. Do what's necessary. No whining.
Got it?
Thought for the day: Only you can prevent a pain in the butt.
As with most conditions, early detection, treatment, following directions and taking responsibility for your health - your state of wellness - is of paramount importance. Take charge. Be your own advocate. Do what's necessary. No whining.
Got it?
Thought for the day: Only you can prevent a pain in the butt.
Sunday, July 03, 2005
Busy, Busy, Busy!
It's been a hectic few weeks and I'm not sure why. Our party is over, but we've been to at least 2 every weekend since and have another (the last) today.
The landscaping is a never-ending battle for Greg - he just ordered dozens of lillies, callas, and irises as well as decorative grasses. The area he plans to "redo" is our entire northern lot line. We're taking out the fruit tress we planted 10 years ago and putting in a planting bed with tall grasses to block our noisy neighbors. A tall fence would be better, but is very expensive. And Greg won't let me have the gun turrett ;-)
Business is picking up a bit and that creates more work for me as chief cook and bookkeeper. My job at the doctors' office is busy - patients are still patients. Keith has his busy social life plus working at the shop and helping at a farmers market on Saturdays. Joe is in rehearsal for "The Taming of the Shrew" at the Celery Flats Theatre later this summer. Greg has the shop and all his projects at home. Busy, busy, busy.......
Remember summer vacation? What happened? Do we have to retire before summer slows down again?
I hope not.
The landscaping is a never-ending battle for Greg - he just ordered dozens of lillies, callas, and irises as well as decorative grasses. The area he plans to "redo" is our entire northern lot line. We're taking out the fruit tress we planted 10 years ago and putting in a planting bed with tall grasses to block our noisy neighbors. A tall fence would be better, but is very expensive. And Greg won't let me have the gun turrett ;-)
Business is picking up a bit and that creates more work for me as chief cook and bookkeeper. My job at the doctors' office is busy - patients are still patients. Keith has his busy social life plus working at the shop and helping at a farmers market on Saturdays. Joe is in rehearsal for "The Taming of the Shrew" at the Celery Flats Theatre later this summer. Greg has the shop and all his projects at home. Busy, busy, busy.......
Remember summer vacation? What happened? Do we have to retire before summer slows down again?
I hope not.
Saturday, June 18, 2005
The Party's Over
Keith's graduation party is now pictures in the memory book. All the cleaning, cooking, planning, and worrying is done. It went off without a hitch. Well, almost.
It rained a little. Twice. The tent post punctured the sprinkler system (again - it happened at Joe's party too). The new screened gazebo that we used for the food tent was broken and had to be rigged to stay up. The industrial fan we brought home from the shop to keep the 89 degree/90 % humid air circulating killed a 2 foot wide circle of grass (oil or solvents or something).
But it's been a week now, and Greg and I are finally able to move without significant pain, the house is ours again, and most of the leftovers are gone. Keith is thrilled with his monetary gain but dreading the Thank You notes. The broken gazebo has been returned and replaced. The grass is growing back.
Now we get to go to other kids grad parties, take a check in a card, look at thier pictures and tropheys, eat some food and then say goodby. That's the fun part. That and commisserating with the parents of the grad and telling them that "this too shall pass". Unless, of course there is another kid(s). This was our last. When they graduate from college, they can take us out to dinner.
It rained a little. Twice. The tent post punctured the sprinkler system (again - it happened at Joe's party too). The new screened gazebo that we used for the food tent was broken and had to be rigged to stay up. The industrial fan we brought home from the shop to keep the 89 degree/90 % humid air circulating killed a 2 foot wide circle of grass (oil or solvents or something).
But it's been a week now, and Greg and I are finally able to move without significant pain, the house is ours again, and most of the leftovers are gone. Keith is thrilled with his monetary gain but dreading the Thank You notes. The broken gazebo has been returned and replaced. The grass is growing back.
Now we get to go to other kids grad parties, take a check in a card, look at thier pictures and tropheys, eat some food and then say goodby. That's the fun part. That and commisserating with the parents of the grad and telling them that "this too shall pass". Unless, of course there is another kid(s). This was our last. When they graduate from college, they can take us out to dinner.
Thursday, June 02, 2005
11 Rules For The Real World
The American Education System. These are some things that just are not taught in schools and should be. If your kid is about to step into the real world, better make him/her read this.
Rule 1: Life is not fair - get used to it!
Rule 2: The world won't care about your self-esteem. The world will expect you to accomplish something BEFORE you feel good about yourself.
Rule 3: You will NOT make $60,000 a year right out of high school. You won't be a vice-president with a carphone until you earn both.
Rule 4: If you think your teacher is tough, wait till you get a boss.
Rule 5: Flipping burgers is not beneath your dignity. Your Grandparents had a different word for burger-flipping: they called it opportunity.
Rule 6: If you mess up, it's not your parents' fault, so don't whine about your mistakes, learn from them.
Rule 7: Before you were born, your parents weren't as boring as they are now. They got that way from paying your bills, cleaning your clothes and listening to you talk about how cool you thought you were. So before you save the rain forest from the parasites of your parent's generation, try delousing the closet in yourown room.
Rule 8: Your school may have done away with winners and losers, but life HAS NOT. In some schools, they have abolished failing grades and they'll give you as MANY TIMES as you want to get the right answer. This doesn't bear the slightest resemblance to ANYTHING in real life.
Rule 9: Life is not divided into semesters. You don't get summers off and very few employers are interested in helping you FIND YOURSELF. Do that on your own time.
Rule 10: Television is NOT real life. In real life people actually have to leave the coffee shop and go to jobs.
Rule 11: Be nice to nerds. Chances are you'll end up working for one.
Don't even need a thought for the day with this one! Pass it on!
Rule 1: Life is not fair - get used to it!
Rule 2: The world won't care about your self-esteem. The world will expect you to accomplish something BEFORE you feel good about yourself.
Rule 3: You will NOT make $60,000 a year right out of high school. You won't be a vice-president with a carphone until you earn both.
Rule 4: If you think your teacher is tough, wait till you get a boss.
Rule 5: Flipping burgers is not beneath your dignity. Your Grandparents had a different word for burger-flipping: they called it opportunity.
Rule 6: If you mess up, it's not your parents' fault, so don't whine about your mistakes, learn from them.
Rule 7: Before you were born, your parents weren't as boring as they are now. They got that way from paying your bills, cleaning your clothes and listening to you talk about how cool you thought you were. So before you save the rain forest from the parasites of your parent's generation, try delousing the closet in yourown room.
Rule 8: Your school may have done away with winners and losers, but life HAS NOT. In some schools, they have abolished failing grades and they'll give you as MANY TIMES as you want to get the right answer. This doesn't bear the slightest resemblance to ANYTHING in real life.
Rule 9: Life is not divided into semesters. You don't get summers off and very few employers are interested in helping you FIND YOURSELF. Do that on your own time.
Rule 10: Television is NOT real life. In real life people actually have to leave the coffee shop and go to jobs.
Rule 11: Be nice to nerds. Chances are you'll end up working for one.
Don't even need a thought for the day with this one! Pass it on!
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Old Bones
Okay, I'm 45 years old. That's not very old , but if you fall down, you can feel old.
For example: On Saturday I was cleaning the tub. Not usually a dangerous event, unless you are short (like me) and the shower walls are high. Well, I reached up and proceeded to fall down. I'm now bruised from shoulder to thigh with exquisit pain in my right side. Now, a few years ago (okay, maybe more than a few!) I would have bounced right back. But now? NO. I'm stiff, sore, aching, and slow. I FEEL very old - but, if I was really in bad shape I probably would have broken something - like my hip or arm.
So the moral to my story? 1: Get a kid to do the high cleaning (not likely) 2: Get the daily dose of Calcium and Vitamin D required to keep your bones strong so that a fall such as mine will result only in bruised muscles and ego, and not broken bones. Another example of taking responsibility for your body and your health.
For example: On Saturday I was cleaning the tub. Not usually a dangerous event, unless you are short (like me) and the shower walls are high. Well, I reached up and proceeded to fall down. I'm now bruised from shoulder to thigh with exquisit pain in my right side. Now, a few years ago (okay, maybe more than a few!) I would have bounced right back. But now? NO. I'm stiff, sore, aching, and slow. I FEEL very old - but, if I was really in bad shape I probably would have broken something - like my hip or arm.
So the moral to my story? 1: Get a kid to do the high cleaning (not likely) 2: Get the daily dose of Calcium and Vitamin D required to keep your bones strong so that a fall such as mine will result only in bruised muscles and ego, and not broken bones. Another example of taking responsibility for your body and your health.
Wednesday, May 25, 2005
Graduation
Tomorrow night, my youngest son, Keith, will graduate from High School.
Hoboy.
I'm starting to feel just a little old. Not decrepit or anything, but just old. I remember my graduation. I went to a large all female Catholic school in Chicago. Our class was so big, we held our ceromony at Chicago's Arie Crown Theatre.
Keith's will be in the "new" gym at the school. Folding chairs, the high school band doing the Star Spangled banner and Pomp and Circumstance, a favorite teacher giving the commencment speech. Some of the same teachers that were there when my husband graduated in 1981 will be there - still teaching the same subjects - just one (and sometimes two) generations later. Some will retire this year - but will probably substitute teach next year. Some will be there for Keith's kids (if they stay in the same small town). Continuity is great, but it can bring a feeling of stagnation. Greg, my husband, can recognize some kids because they look just like their parents did 25 years ago. I've only lived here for 11 years. The boys have been here full time since Keith was in 4th grade and Joe was in 7th grade. Joe graduated 3 years ago - in the "old" gym. Keith was in the band that played. The same teachers were there. The same folding chairs now threaten my older, fatter butt.
I look at them and see people where once I saw children. They are making decisions that I do not always know about in advance and sometimes I don't agree with. But they are not my decisions any more. When did that happen? I'm not really worried about the "empty nest". I'm more worried that I've lost my slave housekeepers. Chores as punishment is a great way to get out of doing the dishes and vacuuming. Oh well, hopefully less mess will be worth it.
They'll visit. Keith will go away to college next January so he'll be home til then. Joe visits when he remembers. He's always been a little absent minded so I have to remind him on occassion. He's staying nearby and will continue college locally.
I've tried to train them right. They know how to do laundry and can cook enough so that they won't starve or live on fast food. They are fairly responsible and mature. So why do I feel like my job shouldn't be done yet? My only answer: They are SO young. They have SO MUCH yet to learn. I know that most of it will come with experience. I just hope I gave them the wherewithall to do a good job.
Good Lord, I feel a little old.
Hoboy.
I'm starting to feel just a little old. Not decrepit or anything, but just old. I remember my graduation. I went to a large all female Catholic school in Chicago. Our class was so big, we held our ceromony at Chicago's Arie Crown Theatre.
Keith's will be in the "new" gym at the school. Folding chairs, the high school band doing the Star Spangled banner and Pomp and Circumstance, a favorite teacher giving the commencment speech. Some of the same teachers that were there when my husband graduated in 1981 will be there - still teaching the same subjects - just one (and sometimes two) generations later. Some will retire this year - but will probably substitute teach next year. Some will be there for Keith's kids (if they stay in the same small town). Continuity is great, but it can bring a feeling of stagnation. Greg, my husband, can recognize some kids because they look just like their parents did 25 years ago. I've only lived here for 11 years. The boys have been here full time since Keith was in 4th grade and Joe was in 7th grade. Joe graduated 3 years ago - in the "old" gym. Keith was in the band that played. The same teachers were there. The same folding chairs now threaten my older, fatter butt.
I look at them and see people where once I saw children. They are making decisions that I do not always know about in advance and sometimes I don't agree with. But they are not my decisions any more. When did that happen? I'm not really worried about the "empty nest". I'm more worried that I've lost my slave housekeepers. Chores as punishment is a great way to get out of doing the dishes and vacuuming. Oh well, hopefully less mess will be worth it.
They'll visit. Keith will go away to college next January so he'll be home til then. Joe visits when he remembers. He's always been a little absent minded so I have to remind him on occassion. He's staying nearby and will continue college locally.
I've tried to train them right. They know how to do laundry and can cook enough so that they won't starve or live on fast food. They are fairly responsible and mature. So why do I feel like my job shouldn't be done yet? My only answer: They are SO young. They have SO MUCH yet to learn. I know that most of it will come with experience. I just hope I gave them the wherewithall to do a good job.
Good Lord, I feel a little old.
Sunday, May 22, 2005
Holistic Health and Healing
This link (click the title of this post) takes you to an interesting online booklet that will give good advise on ways to avoid seeing doctors by keeping yourselves in good condition - a state of WELLNESS. But it also gives good advise on how to prepare yourself to speak to a doctor/nurse and what to do after you get the information you need. Take a few minutes and take control of your health responsibilites. Only you can be responsible for how you feel.
Thought for the day: Aerial spraying of prozac and valium salt licks in the waiting room would be dreams come true for most medical workers.
Thought for the day: Aerial spraying of prozac and valium salt licks in the waiting room would be dreams come true for most medical workers.
Monday, May 16, 2005
You Can Lead A Horse To Water.....Right?
But, heavens knows you can't make him drink. Of course you can't drown him either!
Patients can be alot like these horses. You answer their questions, you sympathize with their pains, you talk til you're blue in the face - teaching the unteachable - you give them drugs that will make them feel better......but do they listen? Do they take all the antibiotic til it's all gone - not sharing it or throwing it away? Do they stay in bed and push fluids and take tylenol for the fever? Do they get labs drawn, x-rays taken, precriptions filled? Do they avoid family and co-workers out of concern for their health? NO NO NO NO NO!!!!!!
These same patients will then come back to the office, ER or hospital inpatient with the same stupified look of disbelief......."How come I'm still sick? Why did everyone at home get this? Why is everyone I work with ticked off?" They are clueless. But who do they blame? You got it. The doctor, the nurse, the receptionist who couldn't get them in "today" Everyone but the idiot that didn't follow directions.
Sheesh!
Patients can be alot like these horses. You answer their questions, you sympathize with their pains, you talk til you're blue in the face - teaching the unteachable - you give them drugs that will make them feel better......but do they listen? Do they take all the antibiotic til it's all gone - not sharing it or throwing it away? Do they stay in bed and push fluids and take tylenol for the fever? Do they get labs drawn, x-rays taken, precriptions filled? Do they avoid family and co-workers out of concern for their health? NO NO NO NO NO!!!!!!
These same patients will then come back to the office, ER or hospital inpatient with the same stupified look of disbelief......."How come I'm still sick? Why did everyone at home get this? Why is everyone I work with ticked off?" They are clueless. But who do they blame? You got it. The doctor, the nurse, the receptionist who couldn't get them in "today" Everyone but the idiot that didn't follow directions.
Sheesh!
Monday, May 02, 2005
So Your Med Got Pulled
Were you a Bextra user? Did you depend on Vioxx? What do you do now that your favorite "medical miracle pill" has been pulled off the market by the FDA?
Well, it depends. You could call your doc and try something new or you could go back to the old standbys of acetaminophen or ibuprofen or naproxin (be carefull with this one too). But have you wondered why these meds get pulled after the long, arduous FDA approval process?
Well, it's like this: first someone comes up with an idea at the drug company (or some private researcher gets the idea and sells it to the drug company), then the lab produces a chemical that can be reproduced exactly the same every time (not easy). This can take years. Then they start experimenting with lab rats and other critters gradually getting to larger animals that more closely resemble humans. After years of this process, they apply for human clinial trials.
Now depending on the complexity and severity of the disease they are trying to fix, these trials can last months to years. Many AIDS meds were practically rushed to market to help people as fast as possible. Some of the long term side effects were downplayed as "reasonable risk" as AIDS is usually fatal. Some of the heart meds take literally years of testing on thousands of people before FDA approval can be applied for. And guess what? The FDA is slow.
So meds that make it throught these processes should be safe and side effects/adverse reactions should be well documented.....right? Well, maybe.
Not all meds require extensive human trials. So what happens is that after the drug is on the market, researchers utilize actual patient use/reported adverse reactions to compile additional reports. Now as anyone who does statistics knows, stats can prove almost any point. For some drugs, erring on the side of caution is necessary. For some, it's a little overblown. For example, Statins, the cholesterol reducing drugs can cause significant liver problems and muscle weakness. They are still on the market - until someone (or maybe a few) dies of liver cancer. The cox 2 inhibitors resulted in a few heart attacks (not all fatal) and they are reviled as killers. Do you have any idea how MANY patients were on these meds? Hundreds of thousands. But a few heart attacks in people with other chronic problems. The media of course blew everthing out of proportion (my opinion) and got government officials all excited by getting patients all excited.
Obviously, meds are necessary for many situations - but not all. Be wise, be carefull and THINK about what you are putting in your body. Lifestyle change is preferable to drugs: excercise releases endorphins so you don't need that anti-depressant. Cut out McD's and reduce your cholesterol level. Fresh fruit instead of cheescake (I know, bite my tongue!). Just a hint.
Okay, end of lecture.
Well, it depends. You could call your doc and try something new or you could go back to the old standbys of acetaminophen or ibuprofen or naproxin (be carefull with this one too). But have you wondered why these meds get pulled after the long, arduous FDA approval process?
Well, it's like this: first someone comes up with an idea at the drug company (or some private researcher gets the idea and sells it to the drug company), then the lab produces a chemical that can be reproduced exactly the same every time (not easy). This can take years. Then they start experimenting with lab rats and other critters gradually getting to larger animals that more closely resemble humans. After years of this process, they apply for human clinial trials.
Now depending on the complexity and severity of the disease they are trying to fix, these trials can last months to years. Many AIDS meds were practically rushed to market to help people as fast as possible. Some of the long term side effects were downplayed as "reasonable risk" as AIDS is usually fatal. Some of the heart meds take literally years of testing on thousands of people before FDA approval can be applied for. And guess what? The FDA is slow.
So meds that make it throught these processes should be safe and side effects/adverse reactions should be well documented.....right? Well, maybe.
Not all meds require extensive human trials. So what happens is that after the drug is on the market, researchers utilize actual patient use/reported adverse reactions to compile additional reports. Now as anyone who does statistics knows, stats can prove almost any point. For some drugs, erring on the side of caution is necessary. For some, it's a little overblown. For example, Statins, the cholesterol reducing drugs can cause significant liver problems and muscle weakness. They are still on the market - until someone (or maybe a few) dies of liver cancer. The cox 2 inhibitors resulted in a few heart attacks (not all fatal) and they are reviled as killers. Do you have any idea how MANY patients were on these meds? Hundreds of thousands. But a few heart attacks in people with other chronic problems. The media of course blew everthing out of proportion (my opinion) and got government officials all excited by getting patients all excited.
Obviously, meds are necessary for many situations - but not all. Be wise, be carefull and THINK about what you are putting in your body. Lifestyle change is preferable to drugs: excercise releases endorphins so you don't need that anti-depressant. Cut out McD's and reduce your cholesterol level. Fresh fruit instead of cheescake (I know, bite my tongue!). Just a hint.
Okay, end of lecture.
Thursday, April 28, 2005
Horrible Virus Strikes !!!
A HORRIBLE VIRUS STRIKES !!!!
This is the most vicious virus I have ever encountered! It stikes unsuspecting systems - NOT the programming but it stikes at the heart of the personal touch portion of the computer - the mouse. As this picture illistrates, it is fatal to the mouse and spreads quickly to all other mice in the house. For some, this could be a good thing. There is no cure. Creamation is advised to prevent the spread of this killer. Warn everyone.
Sunday, April 24, 2005
Wednesday, April 20, 2005
Monday, April 18, 2005
Houdini ... er, I mean, ....Pickles!
She's here! Cute as can be - White and Brindle with a real pug nose, big brown eyes and tiny pink tongue. Her fur is SOOOOOO soft. She arrived on Friday, still suffering from her recent spaying and very shy.
Today that changed. Peanut, our cute black and white boy, went to the groomer for his summer cut (he looked like a fur rug!). Pickles was going to be alone in the house for a few hours. Greg planned on checking on her around 10:30. My in-laws, who live next door, heard her barking ( a first for her since she's been here) and found she was having a fit! She did not like being alone. So after a little petting, she was alone again. Greg came home and she was still barking her head off. He opened the slider an inch or two to give her some "sniff space" and after some more petting he went back to work. About an hour later, my father-in -law saw her in HIS backyard! She had managed to push open the slider and clawed her way through the screen and escape! Thank goodness he saw her. He brought her back home and turned on the TV. That seemed to do it for her - she just needed noise. After Peanut got home she was fine and even napped.
So she has had her first adventure, we confirmed that she has vocal cords and that she is a social animal and not as shy as we thought. She's started playing with Peanut and with some toys.
Now, we just have to finish house training. Goodie.
Today that changed. Peanut, our cute black and white boy, went to the groomer for his summer cut (he looked like a fur rug!). Pickles was going to be alone in the house for a few hours. Greg planned on checking on her around 10:30. My in-laws, who live next door, heard her barking ( a first for her since she's been here) and found she was having a fit! She did not like being alone. So after a little petting, she was alone again. Greg came home and she was still barking her head off. He opened the slider an inch or two to give her some "sniff space" and after some more petting he went back to work. About an hour later, my father-in -law saw her in HIS backyard! She had managed to push open the slider and clawed her way through the screen and escape! Thank goodness he saw her. He brought her back home and turned on the TV. That seemed to do it for her - she just needed noise. After Peanut got home she was fine and even napped.
So she has had her first adventure, we confirmed that she has vocal cords and that she is a social animal and not as shy as we thought. She's started playing with Peanut and with some toys.
Now, we just have to finish house training. Goodie.
Thursday, April 14, 2005
Sniffles, Part 3
Yeah, okay........I'm totally fatigued, every bone hurts, my head is stuffed up and the fever/chills are a dead giveaway.....I'm sick.
Rats.
But unlike most of the world, I know that rest, fluids, tylenol and hot tea are my best defense. The occassional decongestant helps too, but only at night - I need to be able to think during the day.
Oh course, whining helps too.
God, the eternal practical joker, has seen fit to make sure I'm sick on my days off AND the weather is great. That's what I get for my "I don't get sick" attitude. But I will get over this and I know that every one else will also.
Thought for the day: You might be part of the medical community if your immune system attacks squirels in the back yard ( usually ).
Rats.
But unlike most of the world, I know that rest, fluids, tylenol and hot tea are my best defense. The occassional decongestant helps too, but only at night - I need to be able to think during the day.
Oh course, whining helps too.
God, the eternal practical joker, has seen fit to make sure I'm sick on my days off AND the weather is great. That's what I get for my "I don't get sick" attitude. But I will get over this and I know that every one else will also.
Thought for the day: You might be part of the medical community if your immune system attacks squirels in the back yard ( usually ).
Sunday, April 10, 2005
Oh, My Back!
Spring Cleaning can be dangerous to your health.
I have been bit by the cleaning bug and now my back is killing me. What is it about winter that encourages sluggish sloppiness? I mean, I spend more time inside during the winter, so you would think keeping the house clean and neat would be a breeze and that I'd revert to slob status during nice weather. I just don't get it! Well, now that I've started cleaning, I realize that a garage sale is also in my future. Soon. Where did all this STUFF come from anyway? Does anyone own a bulldozer?
Thought for the Day: Hangers reproduce at the same rate as socks disappear. Correlation?
I have been bit by the cleaning bug and now my back is killing me. What is it about winter that encourages sluggish sloppiness? I mean, I spend more time inside during the winter, so you would think keeping the house clean and neat would be a breeze and that I'd revert to slob status during nice weather. I just don't get it! Well, now that I've started cleaning, I realize that a garage sale is also in my future. Soon. Where did all this STUFF come from anyway? Does anyone own a bulldozer?
Thought for the Day: Hangers reproduce at the same rate as socks disappear. Correlation?
Saturday, April 09, 2005
Pickles and Peanut
I am so excited! I just put in an adoption application for a little Shih Tzu girl named Pickles. She is 3 years old and needs a good home. We already have a little boy named Peanut. He's about 6 years old and needs a playmate. We rescued him from the shelter last year after Baby, our 18 year old lady Shih Tzu passed away. We were going to try to go "dogless" for a while, but couldn't do it. The emply nest was just to much to bear (and I still have a teen at home!) . The house is just TOO quiet without a dog around. Even if he's napping, just knowing another life is in the house is comforting. Yes, they are work, but they give so much back.
I would hope that everyone would give a home to an animal that needs one. Or at the very least, support your local no kill shelter/foster system.
Thought for the day: Pets keep you young, active and caring. With a pet, who needs a pill?
God Bless!
I would hope that everyone would give a home to an animal that needs one. Or at the very least, support your local no kill shelter/foster system.
Thought for the day: Pets keep you young, active and caring. With a pet, who needs a pill?
God Bless!
Wednesday, April 06, 2005
Sniffles, Part 2
I am now referring to the current course of sinus/chest symptoms as the Michigan Plague. This round is much much more nasty than the virus that first struck our area. Patients are comming into the office begging for a shot -- to the head! I'm pretty sure that these people feel like thier faces are falling off and that breathing is a luxury they may not experience again.
For all of you suffering with this I say: This too shall pass, unfortunately not very quickly. This is a hanger-on-er. But this time I'm advising actually seeing the doctor (not the ER) and get a script for that antibiotic and maybe a real cough medicine. Then, STAY HOME! Try not to give this to your friends and co-workers. It's an ugly gift.
Feel better.............soon.
For all of you suffering with this I say: This too shall pass, unfortunately not very quickly. This is a hanger-on-er. But this time I'm advising actually seeing the doctor (not the ER) and get a script for that antibiotic and maybe a real cough medicine. Then, STAY HOME! Try not to give this to your friends and co-workers. It's an ugly gift.
Feel better.............soon.
Monday, April 04, 2005
EMS Rules for Life
Rule #1: Air goes in and out.
Rule #2: Blood goes round and round.
Rule #3: Any variation is BAD.
Also remember: If it's warm and sticky and doesn't belong to you, don't touch it.
Rule #2: Blood goes round and round.
Rule #3: Any variation is BAD.
Also remember: If it's warm and sticky and doesn't belong to you, don't touch it.
Sunday, April 03, 2005
Degomerate
Found while surfing:
DEGOMERATE The drug to give when nothing else can be done!
Three weeks of extensive clinical experience in the U.S. and abroad have allowed us to bring you the drug that was previously thought to be undevelopable -- Degomerate.
By carefully reviewing 4 hospital charts, we saw that there was a need for a new drug, one that would fill the needs of the new intern in the ICU. After compiling a list of drugs most frequently used on the terminal patient, we combined them into one simple preparation.And now, after years of testing on amoebas and hoary marmots, Degomerate is available to you, the new intern.
Our new improved formula is guaranteed to control any psychotic, infectious, or cardiac problem you encounter.
ADVANTAGES........Preserves the sex life of your ICU patient........Available in 15 and 30 Gram capsules, also IV/IM........Convenient in "q15minute" administration........No complaints of GI upset in comatose patients........Effective in clinical studies of Tahitian monks
"When Shotgun Therapy is Indicated: DEGOMERATE!"
Contains: Morphine Imipramine Haloperidol Chlorpromazine Diazepam Furosemide Diazoxide Propranolol Nitroglycerine Lidocaine Quinidine Amiodarone Flecainide Atropine Epinephrine Dopamine Norepinephrine Warfarin Imipenem Acyclovir Ceftazidine Nafcillin Amikacin Amphotericin B Clindamycin
INDICATIONS: Presence in an ICU of more than one of the following:
1) IV's pulled out despite four-point soft restraints
2) The Haloperidol drip isn't holding him
3) Smokes cigarettes through endotracheal tube
4) Rounds consist of discussion of patient's code status
5) Has not spoken coherently since Aug 5, 1962
6) Thinks you are his grandson
7) Is overdrawn at the bank
8) Daily progress notes are longer than 2.5 pages
9) Turning on all his life support devices at once blacks-out 3 hospital floors
10) After 48 hours on the unit, his chart weighs more than the Manhattan white pages
11) Drawing daily bloodwork requires replacement with 2 units of packed red blood cells
12) At any one time, has more than 3 miles of IV tubing
13) Has 8 or more consults - all pending
14) Has developed AML from hourly stat CXR's
CONTRAINDICATIONS: any intelligent speech
ADVERSE REACTIONS: Vertigo, development of a prurient interest in broccoli, death, pregnancy, an insane desire to take Heme I as an elective, leprosy, believes he is Woody Hayes, and the most serious possible side effect - total recovery.
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION: Adults: as needed, not to exceed 2 kg/day. Children: use Degomerate Jr., which is cherry flavored and also supplies the MDR of 19 vitamins and minerals.
OVERDOSAGE: Pray!
Unfortunately, it's probably not in the formulary!
DEGOMERATE The drug to give when nothing else can be done!
Three weeks of extensive clinical experience in the U.S. and abroad have allowed us to bring you the drug that was previously thought to be undevelopable -- Degomerate.
By carefully reviewing 4 hospital charts, we saw that there was a need for a new drug, one that would fill the needs of the new intern in the ICU. After compiling a list of drugs most frequently used on the terminal patient, we combined them into one simple preparation.And now, after years of testing on amoebas and hoary marmots, Degomerate is available to you, the new intern.
Our new improved formula is guaranteed to control any psychotic, infectious, or cardiac problem you encounter.
ADVANTAGES........Preserves the sex life of your ICU patient........Available in 15 and 30 Gram capsules, also IV/IM........Convenient in "q15minute" administration........No complaints of GI upset in comatose patients........Effective in clinical studies of Tahitian monks
"When Shotgun Therapy is Indicated: DEGOMERATE!"
Contains: Morphine Imipramine Haloperidol Chlorpromazine Diazepam Furosemide Diazoxide Propranolol Nitroglycerine Lidocaine Quinidine Amiodarone Flecainide Atropine Epinephrine Dopamine Norepinephrine Warfarin Imipenem Acyclovir Ceftazidine Nafcillin Amikacin Amphotericin B Clindamycin
INDICATIONS: Presence in an ICU of more than one of the following:
1) IV's pulled out despite four-point soft restraints
2) The Haloperidol drip isn't holding him
3) Smokes cigarettes through endotracheal tube
4) Rounds consist of discussion of patient's code status
5) Has not spoken coherently since Aug 5, 1962
6) Thinks you are his grandson
7) Is overdrawn at the bank
8) Daily progress notes are longer than 2.5 pages
9) Turning on all his life support devices at once blacks-out 3 hospital floors
10) After 48 hours on the unit, his chart weighs more than the Manhattan white pages
11) Drawing daily bloodwork requires replacement with 2 units of packed red blood cells
12) At any one time, has more than 3 miles of IV tubing
13) Has 8 or more consults - all pending
14) Has developed AML from hourly stat CXR's
CONTRAINDICATIONS: any intelligent speech
ADVERSE REACTIONS: Vertigo, development of a prurient interest in broccoli, death, pregnancy, an insane desire to take Heme I as an elective, leprosy, believes he is Woody Hayes, and the most serious possible side effect - total recovery.
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION: Adults: as needed, not to exceed 2 kg/day. Children: use Degomerate Jr., which is cherry flavored and also supplies the MDR of 19 vitamins and minerals.
OVERDOSAGE: Pray!
Unfortunately, it's probably not in the formulary!
Saturday, April 02, 2005
The Pope
Just a quick note to say that we should all pray for the Pope - for peace of spirit and freedom from pain. His age and medical history are such that recovery would be miraculous (which I have seen and do belive in) but I would hope and pray for comfort for him. I was raised Catholic (I am now a Born Again Christian) and still have respect for the position the Pope holds but mainly I respect the man himself. His conservative views, his unwavering beliefs and his strength of character are what makes him special.
All of us could learn from his life and the dignity with which he faces his death. May it be peaceful.
God Bless.
All of us could learn from his life and the dignity with which he faces his death. May it be peaceful.
God Bless.
Friday, April 01, 2005
Sniffles
Has everyone had them yet? If not, you will. If you have, you will again. Here in "sunny" Michigan the symptoms of choice are sinus congestion and headaches along with the ever feared POST NASAL DRIP! Guess what people? This is a virus! Take tylenol and push fluids for the week it takes to get over this bug. Antibiotics won't cut it and your doctors office and the ER are jammed up. Save some money and insurance paperwork - deal with it like adults. Oh, and for the kids - same treatment.
By the way, why do parents forego giving their kids tylenol for a fever before coming to the ER? So that the doctor/nurse will "see" the fever and the poor sick, suffering kid. Use your brains folks, make your kid feel better and you just might avoid that trip to the ER at 2 AM.
Thought for the day: All bleeding stops eventually.
By the way, why do parents forego giving their kids tylenol for a fever before coming to the ER? So that the doctor/nurse will "see" the fever and the poor sick, suffering kid. Use your brains folks, make your kid feel better and you just might avoid that trip to the ER at 2 AM.
Thought for the day: All bleeding stops eventually.
Hello !
Hello!
Welcome to my foray into the world of blogging. I'm an RN with a typical outlook that comes from years in ER/ICU/CCU. My sense of humor is sideways. I do not always sound compassionate, but I really am. I feel strongly about patient rights and realistic goals and treatments. I'm very outspoken about the havoc drunk drivers cause and drug seekers/abusers who flood a system that is overworked, underfunded and stretched to limits that just 15 years ago seemed unbelievable.
So, join me in discussing, disecting and laughing at the medical system, establishment and practitioners.......It should be interesting!
Welcome to my foray into the world of blogging. I'm an RN with a typical outlook that comes from years in ER/ICU/CCU. My sense of humor is sideways. I do not always sound compassionate, but I really am. I feel strongly about patient rights and realistic goals and treatments. I'm very outspoken about the havoc drunk drivers cause and drug seekers/abusers who flood a system that is overworked, underfunded and stretched to limits that just 15 years ago seemed unbelievable.
So, join me in discussing, disecting and laughing at the medical system, establishment and practitioners.......It should be interesting!
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