Chronic Healing: Clean Air and Water Fortify Us From Seasonal Allergens & Toxins

Chronic Healing: Clean Air & Water Fortify Us From Seasonal Allergens & Toxins

As our South Texas Spring rolls quickly into summer, the yellow dusty residue of pollen seems to be everywhere; on the outside of our windows, our entry porch & steps, and especially on our car (even though my husband washes it several time a week). For those of us dealing with one or more chronic illnesses, the extra burden of allergens can weigh heavily on our health. Additionally, as the temperatures start to soar, so does the ozone exposure.  

We are not completely at the mercy of Mother Nature though as there are things we can do around our home that can provide us with extra support through the coming months.

If you live where there is a lot of sun and heat, and in a highly populated area with heavy traffic on the freeways, you are likely to have more exposure to ozone's.  Air Now is a great Internet site to put on your desktop or in your "favorites" file because it will give you an up-to-date reading of both the ozone's and the allergen count in your area. Just click on the site above and then, type in your zip code at the top of the page. A map for your area will show current Air Quality Index (AQI) on a map as well as provide a count (number) for allergen particles and ozone's with color coding. Green -anything under 50 is "good air quality," whereas, yellow - over 50 but not over 100, indicates some problems for people who are extremely sensitive (that would be me and many people with compromised immune systems from chronic illness). The counts and warnings then go on to orange and red - which can affect people not typically sensitive to allergens and/or ozone's. Obviously, if the readings are close to, or over 100, I try to stay inside during the worst of it (ozone's are almost always worse during the hotter part of the day, and allergens may be less prominent in evening and early morning).

In addition to being aware of the outside conditions there are also some things you can do to keep your indoor environment healthier - here are just a few ideas:

1) Make sure your windows and doors are sealed well. Our 100 year old house has it's original windows and they allow a lot of outdoor air in as the seals are virtually non-existent. Since they are so old and fragile, we cannot put new sealing around them, but we discovered a great product to help keep the hot air AND the BAD air out, in 3M Window Insulator film. This is NOT solar window film typically used to minimize the sun's rays as it actually goes over both the window and the window frame and is inexpensive and easy to apply.  For more information on this product go to:

http://solutions.3m.com/wps/portal/3M/en_US/WindowInsulatorKits/Products/

    

2) Another great investment for improving indoor air and reducing allergens is The Vollara "Classic" Air  Machine.  About 15 years ago, I wrote an article about air purifiers for the home and after weeks of research, found this machine which eliminates bad ozone's and allergens (and even dust mites). It is by far, the best machine I found on the market for cleaning up to 1500 square feet of air. It is a bit of an investment but considering the job it does and how long it lasts (and the fact that it does not require filter replacements - you just wash the one it comes with about once per month), it is the best deal around. If I place a vase of fresh flowers anywhere near it, they will last twice as long as they typically do without the air machine!  I became a representative just so I could get the products at a reduced rate for my family and friends. To see more on the "Classic" Air Purifier, go to my page and click on products and then click on "air," and scroll down page. If you, or a loved one decide to get one, contact me as I can order it for you and get the $75.00 off. It will also will quickly remove any toxins in the air from cigarette smoke to paint fumes (even smoke from a fire - our toaster oven  ;-)  Breathing in air that’s free of irritants and toxins is incredibly healthful!

3) Drinking and bathing with clean water is also an essential part of boosting our immune system's ability to withstand seasonal heat, allergens, and ozone's. There are a number of really good water purifiers on the market - I prefer the kind that has the ionizing feature. We also purchase Mountain Valley Spring Water in the glass containers whenever possible, and I typically drink between 95 and 110 ounces per day (allotted out over a 14 to 16 hour day). The recommended amount for the average person is about 70 oz. per day but those of us battling chronic illness typically need more as we are more prone to dehydration from both medical conditions and medications. I take several types of allergy medicine and several prescriptions that are sodium based, so I compensate with an extra 25 to 40 ounces. (I do count decaffeinated teas and coffees and clear natural juices in this daily intake).

Water and air are referenced throughout the Bible and in many religious texts as being associated with life, healing, and health, but no matter what your beliefs; breathing healthy air and, hydrating your body with clean water will fortify you to cope better with the extra burden of allergens and toxins that often accompany the Spring and Summer Seasons. 

 

The following is a great drink I created to hydrate the body and keep cool on hot days.

Super Hydrating/Cleansing Summer Cocktail:

2-3 oz. Organic Aloe Vera Juice

2 Oz. Organic Cranberry Juice

2 Oz. Organic pure lemon juice

2 Oz. organic pineapple OR orange juice

2 Oz. organic apple juice Or Pomegranate Juice

1 tsp. organic maple syrup and/OR

1 packet pure Stevia (natural sweetener)

Stir together and serve chilled. For an extra “kick” and immune booster, you can add 2 oz. liquid from slowly simmering organic ginger pieces in purified water, OR, 2 oz. “Maine Root” Ginger Brew. Delicious and so good to your health!

Cry Some, Laugh More, Pray Often ~ Jamey Lacy July

Chronic Coping

Chronic Coping

There's a story about a man riding the commuter train home one evening who was visibly upset. Another man who took the same train knew the harried man from exchanging regular greetings and light conversations during their rides to and from work, asked him what was wrong. The first man proceeded to tell him that his company had downsized and he had just lost his job along with his health benefits. He then added, "And my wife told me last night that she wants a divorce and our son was suspended from school yesterday afternoon! I don't know what to do," he added with an exasperated sigh. The second man looked at his distressed friend and after a few moments said, "Here's what you should do. Don't think about any of this the rest of the night. Go home. Have a really good dinner, take a long hot shower, and get a good night's sleep." He was basically telling his commuter buddy that after re-grouping and recouping from clearing his mind, eating, relaxing his body and resting his mind, he would be much better equipped with sorting out all of his problems.  

This advice, or at least the wisdom of the concept of coping, can be vitally helpful for those of us in the long throes of battling chronic illness, and, for those who love and care for us - especially our "main" caregivers. When our symptoms flare up and seem out of control; other "life burdens" such as mounting medical costs, unexpected home or car repairs, seeing one of our children injured (recently, a broken foot in our daughter's case), job or income changes, an unforeseen increase in property or income taxes, and a thousand other potential trials that can come at us without warning, can quickly put us in a place of panic. 

Having a plan of action or a regular list of coping tactics can spare us from spinning completely out-of-control. The following are things that have helped us when life's ups and downs seem to turn upside down:

> Get QUIET. ["Peace Be Still" Mark 4:39 These 3 simple words that Jesus said to calm the waters for his disciples calm me in the midst of "life storms" when I say them out loud]. If you are at home, close the blinds or turn the lights down and sit in the quietest room/space in the house. If you have non-toxic scented candles - light a few and/or, put on some calming music. Now, take at least 7 to 12 deep breaths through your diaphragm (letting your upper abdomen rise as you inhale), and holding the air in for 3 to 5 counts, then, slowly (3 to 5 more counts) exhale. Try to clear your mind completely - if thoughts crowd in, push them out. It sometimes helps to focus on an image (a blue sky with white clouds or a babbling mountain creek).

If you are at work or driving or out in public, find a bench or an area where you can sit and do the above breathing exercises. As you breathe and clear your mind, your heart rate will slow down and the urge to panic will subside.

> If you believe in God (Divine Love/Power), then pray for peace and guidance, asking for clarity in dealing with your dilemmas.

> Nourish and hydrate. Eat a healthy meal or snack (clean; organic, Non-GMO, non-trans fat, low sugar, lean protein and complex carbohydrates). When you put premium fuel in your body it will reward you with the energy and strength to handle most situations. Drink 20 oz. of fresh purified or Spring water at least 4 intervals throughout the day (five or six if you are taking medications that dehydrate such as antihistamines and sodium based drugs).

> Exercise and/or stretch slowly. Gentle Yoga movements, a short walk on soft surfaces, climbing stairs, cycling (stationary, or if outdoors - in an uncongested area). Just 12 to 15 minutes can do wonders in circulating blood flow and promoting oxygen intake - which will give you more mental clarity to respond better and make sound decisions.

> Relax tense muscles with a hot bath and mineral salts and a few drops of organic essential oils OR take a hot shower and use bath gel with essential oils such as chamomile, lavender, or tea tree.

> If at all possible, get a massage or an acupuncture session. Both of these treatments will help your body to detoxify from extra stress factors. Most cities have massage  and acupuncture schools where you can get an intern to provide treatment for about half the cost.

> Rest. Get a power nap during the day or get to bed early enough to get 7 to 8 good hours of sleep. If you have medication to help you sleep - be sure to take it. Also, Chamomile, Valerian Root, Lavender, and Peppermint (or a combination of these) can help you relax and sleep better. Kava Kava is also very helpful for relaxing and a sleep aid. It comes in tea and also capsules and liquid tincture (you can find at most holistic stores and grocers).

> After you've quieted your mind, fueled and exercised your body and regenerated from rest, you can better access life challenges.

Put it down on paper; just like you would write a "pros & cons" list, make a list of your current problems and a list of potential solutions. Do this together with your caregiver or your patient spouse if possible (it helps you both value that you are a team - in spite of the illness and health restrictions). IF you can't partner up with your mate/caregiver, call a friend or family member, or someone who can counsel with you without getting over emotional. (A pastor/reverend/ church counselor, a therapist/psychologist, or life-coach).

> Seek specialists when they are needed; attorneys, accountants, therapists, support groups and sponsors, etc.

Use these contacts/individuals to help you make a "game plan" designed to help you work through the challenges or obstacles. Keep a list of things to do (to avoid panic and distress), AND, your "game plan" posted where you can see it and make notes and updates as things transpire.

> Seek inspiration. Stay inspired through DVDs, CDs, helpful books, visualization exercises and images, self talk, and lectures and videos on the Internet.

Think of all of the things you've survived in the past and let that fortify you through this set of trials or challenges. You CAN cope even in the midst of chronic illness!

"Resolutions" Vs. "Re-Do" Lists and Erasable Calendars

"Resolutions" Vs. "Re-Do" Lists and Erasable Calendars

By this time into the New Year we have typically had time to reflect on the previous year and may be examining a “New Resolutions” list…or maybe even a “Re-Do" list! For those of us facing the challenges of chronic illness, over time we learn that each day is an opportunity to “Re-Do” something we may have missed the day before due to a flare-up of symptoms. The calendar holds a different perspective for us. We’ve learned the benefit of having a wipe-off calendar where erasable markers set the dates and the proposed activities and appointments, with the capacity to make frequent changes as the days and weeks transpire. That erasable or “re-doable” calendar signifies how we live our lives and how we, as a couple, as a family, or even as an individual, can truly live each day in the face of life changing illness.

Around this time of year, back when William and I were still dating, we started making special plans for our Valentines’ date to go to a really unique and romantic restaurant in an eclectic part of the city. That year, Valentine’s Day fell on a week-end which meant planning even earlier than usual to get a reservation on that extra busy holiday. By Thursday night however, my daughter Laney, who was a young teen at the time, had come down with a fever and sore throat. On Friday morning her symptoms were worse and it was clear she wouldn’t be able to go to school that day.

Having lost two infant sons prior to the birth of my daughter, you could say that she was truly a “miracle baby,” and I loved her as such. I had made a commitment that I would never be away from her whenever she was sick, and told my clients and friends that plans would be re-scheduled if my daughter needed me home with her. So, on this Friday morning, I knew I would need to cancel my Valentine’s Dinner with William. It was our first Valentine’s celebration together (as we had just become a “couple” the previous summer), so I felt really bad knowing I would have to tell him I couldn’t make it.

Little did I know that for him, the day was unfolding with problems of his own. He had encountered a number of hitches in his schedule that day with work on his second book, Understanding The Tin Man; a phone meeting with his new agent had been pushed back, and editing work had hit an unexpected snag. By the time I got the nerve to call him on his cell phone early that afternoon, he was standing 20 people deep in a line at the flower shop near his house while simultaneously trying to iron out matters on the phone with his editor. When I beeped in on call-waiting, he asked if he could call me right back and sounded a little harried. I thought to myself that my news wasn’t going to make his day any better.

When William called me back he briefly told me what kind of day he was having and I told him that Laney was home sick and hesitantly said I thought I should stay home with her that night, and probably the next (which meant we would have to cancel our hard-to-get dinner reservations). I could hear William let out a deep sigh on the other end of the phone as he said, “wow, I’m really sorry Laney’s not feeling well but to be honest, I was wondering how I was going to get everything done today and make our dinner on time.” He told me he’d been standing in line to get flowers for me for over 20 minutes and there were still about a half dozen guys in front of him waiting to do the same for their girlfriends or wives. We agreed to make “our own date” for Valentine’s and by Saturday night Laney’s fever was gone and she was feeling much better so we rescheduled our dinner for Sunday night.

William brought flowers for me and Laney on Sunday evening, and he was relieved that it only took fifteen minutes to get them since the furor over Valentine’s Day was over. We left Laney with a family friend and a new movie while we went to our Valentine’s dinner. When we arrived at the lovely restaurant that had been converted from an old church with a beautiful frescoed ceiling, we were surprised to find that except for one other couple who were dining outside on the patio, we were the only couple there. It was as if we had the entire restaurant just to ourselves!

That evening over a lovely candlelight dinner, we made a vow that from then on, we would never let a calendar dictate our plans or cause unnecessary stress. Little did we know that years later, as illness greatly altered my health and our lives, this would be one of our best survival tools! We learned to plan birthdays, anniversaries, and special holidays on the best date for us and our situation - with an alternate or “back-up date” in place. Friends, family and associates who know (and understand) the challenges we face living with chronic illness, also know that we do our best to honor plans or appointments but there will be times when we need to re-schedule, or, may even miss an event according to how my health is.

We've learned to accept that on occasion we will have to pay a cancellation fee if last minute health problems arise and I have to miss a professional appointment. We only make "flexible plans" to go to dinner, an outdoor concert, or a museum exhibit with friends and family members who are "on board" with our situation. This has removed unnecessary stress from our lives and helps us feel less anxious about making plans. Today, our erasable calendar encompasses four months and hangs on one wall of our office. It reminds us that life can and often does, change unexpectedly from day to day, and that IS a reality when dealing with the unpredictability of long term illness. And every day can be a "re-do day" if necessary -- no matter what time of the year, and erasable calendars can make life less stressful -- no matter what state your health is in!

Do you have a story about how you have learned to manage your time differently since you or a loved one became ill? If so, we'd love to hear from you!

[You can leave your story or tip in the comment box below or e-mail us at: jameyslacy@aol.com]

Drought of The Body & Spirit

It started the last of May. A gentle celebratory hug incited yet another fracture in one of my ribs – long bouts of prednisone medication had made my once strong bones weak and brittle.  We were planning a short trip to see my niece graduate and now, as the pain and inflammation made it hard to lie back or sit up, or even walk at a normal pace, I sadly realized that the trip was no longer a possibility. Trips for me require an unimaginable amount of planning, extensive packing (from medications and remedies, to special food, linens, air filter, and other items to reduce intense allergic reaction to most allergens both indoors and out). But I was determined as was my husband, William – who also had a special place in his heart for my niece since she stood up with us in our wedding as ring bearer when she was just four! During the first years of our marriage before my health spiraled downward, this precious one would visit us often and as my God daughter was much like the second daughter I didn’t get to have. As my health has been weighed down by more conditions and travel has become so difficult, I’ve missed out on visiting her and my other nieces and nephews. 

My sorrow over missing her graduation and the pain from the re-fractured rib sent me into depression and then, to make matters worse, a terrible heat wave rolled across the state and enveloped our far most Southern city with the hottest temperatures in 30 years. The high levels of humidity and the resulting ozones from the heat and pollution seeped through the loosened seals of our hundred year old house, leaving me burdened with chronic allergies and heightened fatigue and pain. And thus began the worst drought – environmentally and for me; physically and spiritually.

It takes a great deal – me digging way down inside with Divine Assistance to share with others (especially those who I interface with who are also battling critical/chronic illnesses) and of course anyone reading this blog or our book, when I have come to an impasse with health challenges and my life in general. For most of my adult life and even some of my teen years, I spent a good deal of time with my writing and in my work as a Fitness Specialist helping many clients in overcoming weight and eating issues, rehabilitating from injuries, illnesses, and poor metabolisms and weakened bodies. Whether writing fiction (short stories & illustrations) for a youth magazine as a young teen, or writing non-fiction on wellness topics over the years of my career, I’ve always been the “coach” the “encourager” the one who helped and hopefully inspired others.

Now, after battling a half dozen debilitating chronic diseases (two, for over 20 years – the others for over 10 years) I find myself at times in a place where I feel physically and spiritually crippled, stymied, without encouraging thoughts let alone, uplifting words.

To some, who know of my faith as a Christian-the kind who loves and tries to follow Jesus’ teachings, or as author, Dave Burchett, suggests in his book, When Bad Christians Happen To Good People… to get my walkin to match my talkin, it may be hard to read this. “Jamey, you’re always so encouraging – so supportive,” many have said, but truth be known, I too fall into the darkness. And here is where I am learning humility. Oh, I’m very familiar with being humble for chronic illness, chronic (and regular debilitating) pain, and body altering medications - that have added more damage to my body from ravaging side effects, has made humility a regular companion. But like the five months of relentless drought conditions in our region, I am trudging through the desert physically and spiritually, with no oasis in sight, I worry that to speak this, to write it, might somehow discourage others or get them down. Okay. I know I’m not God;, I’m not puffed up with myself – just uncomfortable with the thought that by revealing my moments of despair and even hopelessness, for concern that I might create sadness in someone else who needs encouraging words and hope.

While reading, What I Learned While Lying Down, by Angie Dugi, I was completely surprised to find similar feelings expressed by this dear woman who is surely one of the sweetest and most faithful women I’ve ever encountered! Her book is also about her odyssey with chronic illness and how it has changed her life and the lives of those who love her – especially her husband, Greg, and their children. In between so many inspiring pages there are also passages such as this; “I am grieving and mourning over so many losses…I’m alive and breathing but I have lost sight of what it really feels like to be alive. I catch glimpses of it in other people and I envy it…I long to escape the pain, even to run away, but the disease would only follow. Sometimes I hate this sick body because it traps me with all its malfunctions and restrictions. I it is so hard to positive and I feel like I’m losing my grip and slipping down a steep slope…I have felt such despair, it has been dreadful and dark.”  I realized as I read these words tucked in with other passages of how Angie persevered and overcame such trials, that all of these feelings; from the hope to the despair, are the threads that compose the tapestry of our lives and our journey with chronic illnesses.

With that said, I’m going to be reveal my own vulnerability and confess that like Moses, I’ve been stumbling around in the desert for several months now. I’ve endured bouts of angina, a lupus flare up that is affecting my organs and not letting up, and a complete break-down of my immune system with chronic allergies weighing down my body’s already limited ability to contend with chronic disease. Then there are the baffling and ongoing skin problems and the chronic pain from inflammatory disease of the muscles (which greatly affects both the nerves and incites more pain). I spend 5 to 8 hours per day applying and maintaining special ointments to my skin to protect it because my immunities aren’t doing the job and, it takes me 3 to 4 hours of careful preparation before I can even leave our house. Now, if you’re still reading, you’ve got courage and compassion; two vital things for those battling chronic health conditions and, also for those who are not ill, but who loves someone who is.

In the book I co-wrote with William, A Husband, A Wife, & An Illness, there are many places where I write about the burden of illness but also, about many different ways to cope, and even overcome some aspects of chronic disease. It’s actually some very good stuff – written from my heart. And I am humbled and overjoyed that many people have told us it has helped them in their own ordeals with illness. However, this “record dry spell” of fighting several illnesses at full flare for over five months has left me bone weary and just wanting to lie down and sleep and never awake to the pain and suffering again.

Have I given up on my faith? No, because I still pray to a Loving God daily – granted sometimes in silence and sometimes in moans. Yes, I pray for help and strength and healing and sometimes just for God to let me go to my eternal home. I also continue daily to pray for loved ones (some of whom have no idea that I do so) and for virtually anyone who comes into my mind or heart with needs. And then, like Job, some of my prayers are more a display of anger, frustration, and questions; “God, are you listening? Do you still care?” Have I lost all hope then? No, not ALL hope, and if a mustard seed of belief can carry us then I would think a mustard seed of hope would too…time will tell.

In the meantime, I will do what I can, not one day at a time, but one hour and sometimes even one minute at a time, to try to survive this drought and hopefully, prayerfully, come upon an oasis where my body and spirit may rally.

Cry Some...Cry More if you need to, Laugh (whenever you get the slightest opportunity), and Pray Often (especially when you don’t feel like it!) ~  Jamey Lacy July

Healing Activities for Couples (Patients & Caregivers)

Healing Activities for Couples

(Patients & Caregivers) 

The following is an expanded version of the list on our Couples Facing Illness web site (that some followers have had difficulty locating).

1. Create together: cook a meal or new dish; let the patient spouse do the "sou" chef or minor prep work and well spouse can actually do the cooking/baking. Re-arrange your furniture -- let the well-spouse relocate the heavier stuff =), paint a giant poster board any way you're inspired, grow a plant or a small herb garden, make up a secret and "kinda krazee" handshake, complete a cross word puzzle or a picture puzzle, co-write a "where we are now" letter to send to extended family and friends. Use your imaginations together.

2. Practice deep breathing together for stress and PAIN relief (and/or meditate together). If the patient spouse is going through a flare-up, light a few natural soy or non-toxic candles/dim lights, put on soothing music and just sit or lie next to one another. Try deep breathing in unison. 

3. Don’t let your bedroom become a “sick room.” When you wake up, get up and go to another room in your house where you can rest and recoup. Change into fresh (comfortable) clothes even if it's a new pair of pajamas or warm-ups.

4. Keep bedroom healthy with positive messages, happy photos, plants, let sunshine & fresh air in, play uplifting music while awake and calming sounds for sleep time. If you live in area where the air is unhealthy put an air filter with ionizer in your room.

5. Play! Try simple board games or cards indoors, draw or paint, make a collage of photos & images that inspire you to feel happy & heal. Put up a soft, indoor mini basketball hoop & practice tossing ball from various positions, use your imagination. Share a computer game that you both like. On the patient spouse's "stronger" or "better" days, visit your local park on mild weather days for a light picnic or fly a kite!

6. Laugh together; watch funny shows/movies. Tell jokes. Do silly little dances, whistle, sing fun songs, recall experiences that make you laugh, and look at photos of fun or funny times.

7. Go for walks together (just get outside). Walk around your house or yard. If patient spouse must use a wheelchair, the well spouse can find an area in neighborhood with sidewalks or even pavement and burn extra calories wheeling your mate. Sit and watch the sunset or go out in early eve and look at stars.

8. Recycle or give away something you no longer use. Replace something old or in disrepair with something new (old shoes, lamp shade, small appliance, books or magazines you no longer need, etc.).

9. Exercise together and encourage one another to eat healthy and be active. If patient spouse is unable to do light exercises, help her/him to do gentle stretches on bed while you stretch beside the bed. If patient spouse is unable to go to gym encourage your well/care-giving spouse to work out and ask them to "do an extra set or walk an extra block" for you!

10. Break your routine occasionally; go for a drive on a scenic road, visit a new exhibit at a museum during off hours, try a new recipe or restaurant (order "to go" if you don't feel like eating out). Listen to a new kind of music. Learn some words & a few phrases in another language and practice saying these to each other.

11. Do something kind and show appreciation for one another each week. Buy or make a small gift (poem, card or note of thanks, small non-toxic scented candle or soap), do a small chore or errand that your mate normally does, leave a loving message or text on your mate's cell phone, etc.

12. Practice loving touches every day such as; hugs, kisses, gentle pats, light massages, holding hands, etc.,

13. Take turns reading small sections of an inspiring book, scripture passages, and inspiring and uplifting quotes. Start with just a 3 to 5 minute reading. Also, listen to inspiring stories, scriptures, or poems, together on audio CD.

14. For special events (birthdays, anniversaries, etc.) splurge and have someone come to your home to prepare and serve dinner, get his & her massages, invite a friend, church member(s), or neighbor(s) over to play a musical instrument.

15. If you have children at home, ask them to do a small play or performance for a weekend night. (Have organic pop-corn or chips and salsa & beverages afterwards).

No matter how difficult things can be at times, try to remember to lighten the moment with a silly song, joke, gesture, etc. Do small things to change up the routine and take occasional breaks from one another by going to lunch, a lecture, movie, or coffee, with a friend or family member. The patient spouse can have a friend over to the house if he/she can't get out.

We welcome you to share a unique healing activity that you and your spouse do together (just click on comment below).

~Cry Some, Laugh More, Pray (and Play) Often~

Survival Tips for Chronically Ill;

Coping With Extreme Heat from Weather Disasters & Power Outages

Those with chronic illness and their loved ones can best survive power outages and catastrophic weather in hotter regions of the U.S. by planning ahead.  The following are things that you and/or your caregiver(s) can do to be prepared:

Ø   If you or a loved one has a serious health condition that necessitates constant use of electricity, your doctor can write a letter on your behalf and you can submit it to your local power supplier. This can help in unplanned power outages where the electric company will work to get your power on sooner. Do this ahead of time!

Ø  Contact your electric company and request (with a copy of the letter from your doctor) that you be notified before the electricity is turned off for a “blackout.”

Ø  Keep a cell phone fully charged so you can call for help/assistance.

Ø  Establish several alternative shelters or “healthy places” with electricity that you can retreat to such as a friend or relative’s home, hotel, or church/retreat camp, that is outside of the affected area or, a place that has a generator. Do this ahead of time before weather power outages or mandatory blackouts.

Ø  Have a caregiver, friend, or relative at the ready to drive you to one of these places. Make sure the vehicle you will be riding in has air conditioning.

Ø  Have extra bottled water and hydrating drinks at the ready (pack some in a box or carry bag for travel). Drink hydrating fluids every 15 to 20 minutes OR take generous sips every 3 minutes.

Ø  Wear lightweight cotton clothing (natural fibers that breathe). Loose drawstring cotton pants or skirt, light cotton blouse or t-shirt, comfortable slip on shoes or sandals.

Ø  Wear a medical bracelet that provides pertinent information about your identity, health conditions, medications, allergies, and emergency "contact person." If you don’t have a bracelet, print this information on an index card and have it laminated (waterproofed) and secure it to your clothing. Also keep a copy of this information in your purse or wallet.

Ø   If you have a condition that is exacerbated by direct sunlight or heat and/or, take medicine that requires you to stay out of the sun; have an umbrella and a light weight floppy cotton hat/cap to protect yourself while you are outside. ALSO keep a natural sunscreen (that doesn’t contain irritating chemicals or ingredients) on hand and apply every 30 to 90 minutes.

Ø   If there is a chance that you will need to be away from home overnight or for more than a day, pack a bag with your medicine, special supplements, and remedies, and have special medical equipment ready for transport. [Keep in mind that weather disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, etc., may result in areas being without energy or water supplies for days, and sometimes even weeks. Make sure you make adequate arrangements where you will be staying, and, check with neighbors or the power company to make sure your energy and water sources are restored before returning home.]

Ø  If you are on a special diet, pack & label some of these foods, drinks, etc. and keep them ready in your pantry or fridge. Have a portable ice chest nearby to carry them in.

Ø  If the power outage is a mandatory rolling blackout, call your electric company to give you an estimated time that your power will be out – if it is only for a few hours or so, ask them to give you a list of areas that will have power. You may be able to take refuge in a church, library, grocery store, restaurant, or shopping mall right in your city and avoid travelling long distances.

Ø      Check daily weather reports in your area. You can wait for your local news (or if you have cable), “The Weather Channel” to forecast for your region. But if you have Internet access, you can go to http://www.wunderground.com where you can type in your zip code and get updated (hourly) weather reports and 5 day forecasts for your area (anytime). Also, check out http://www.airnow.gov/ to determine the air quality (ozones and allergen levels) in your area.

          Cry Some, Laugh More, Pray Often ~ Jamey Lacy July

Extreme Weather Poses Special Challenges to Chronically Ill

Very few people escape the trauma...that a natural weather disaster yields, but for families or individuals facing the added burden of chronic illness, that trauma is even more intense.

We are grateful that hurricane Irene ended up doing far less damage to the East Coast than was anticipated.   However, we could not avoid little pangs of anxiety over just the memory of what we (and hundreds of thousands of people living near the Gulf Coast) went through as Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Ike, pummeled our world just a few years ago.  Very few people escape the trauma (to our minds, bodies, and property) that a natural weather disaster yields, but for families or individuals facing the added burden of chronic illness, that trauma is even more intense.

For those relying on special ionizing air filters, sleep apnea machines, oxygen therapy, special medical monitors, etc., the loss of electricity for even a few hours can be life threatening.

Living without electricity and air conditioning in an unbearably hot region, can make a drastic impact on chronic health conditions; from increased blood pressure to circulatory problems that can cause a sudden increase in overall edema (swelling), severe burning and redness in hands, fingers, and feet, (from autoimmune conditions like Raynaud’s and fibromyalgia), to respiratory complications for those with allergies, chemical sensitivities, asthma, and internal inflammatory symptoms. For those relying on special ionizing air filters, sleep apnea machines, oxygen therapy, special medical monitors, etc., the loss of electricity for even a few hours can be life threatening.

During that seemingly endless journey, I had severe chest pains - symptoms of unstable angina, and everyone’s health was challenged in the extreme heat and cramped conditions. 

The mandatory evacuation from Houston for hurricane Rita was a grueling 23 hour drive with my husband and his parents – who were also coping with several serious health conditions. Our destination was my younger sister’s home in the Dallas area which would have normally been a 5 hour drive.  During that seemingly endless journey, I experienced a severe bout of chest pain from unstable angina and everyone’s health was challenged in the extreme heat and cramped conditions. So when hurricane Ike came along just a few years later, we decided to try and stand our ground. Big mistake! Although Ike was only a category 3 hurricane it had an unexpected diameter or body that was much wider than was typical. So, after 8 or 9 relentless hours of high winds and rains pummeling homes, trees, power lines, and property, the resulting damage was more like that of a category 4  hurricane. 

As the hours slowly moved forward and the heat and humidity steadily rose; we ventured out to see what chaos the storm had wrought on our neighborhood.

Like so many other people, we optimistically thought (especially living just a few miles from the medical center) that our electricity would be back on within a few hours or, at least, by the following day.  As the hours slowly moved forward and the heat and humidity steadily rose; we ventured out to see what chaos the storm had wrought on our neighborhood. What we saw reflected the same scene throughout most of Galveston, Clear Lake, Houston, and cities as far as Huntsville. Our daughter, now living in her own place in The Woodlands (some 20+ miles north of Houston) found a large tree ensconced in one of her bedrooms.

In our area next to a large city park, golf course, and museums, debris from homes...sections of roofs, porches, doors, and siding, were strewn across yards and vehicles.

In our area next to a large city park, golf course, and museums, debris from homes – some more than 100 years old, including; sections of roofs, porches, doors, and siding, were strewn across yards and vehicles. Large trees that had stood for over a century were lying across streets with their branches broken across fallen electrical lines. By mid-afternoon, my fingers, feet and ankles were bright red and swelling steadily and my breathing was labored. We knew I would have to relocate to a place with electricity or expect to end up in one of the many over-crowded emergency rooms in Houston’s Medical Center.

It had been a terribly difficult year; we all felt tremendous loss when Mom July passed away ... Just a week after her funeral service, hurricane Ike hit...

It had been a terribly difficult year; we all felt tremendous loss when Mom July passed away a month after she experienced several strokes. Just a week after her funeral service, hurricane Ike hit and in the midst of his grief, Dad July was unwilling to relocate temporarily to a healthier environment in the FW/Dallas area. William drove me to my sister’s home and turned right around and drove back to Houston to watch over Dad.

William and his father, (who was determined to stand by the 100 year old family home) suffered through intense heat, humidity, and a nightly onslaught of hungry mosquitoes...  

My dear niece graciously loaned me her bedroom where there was a thermostat so I could stay cool and manage symptoms.  Meanwhile, William and his father, (who was determined to stand by the 100 year old family home) suffered through intense heat, humidity, and a nightly onslaught of hungry mosquitoes in the midst of their grief. Like most Houstonians, they watched in frustration as food in the freezers and refrigerators went bad. They spent 12 long days and nights without lights, air conditioning, hot water, or the use of any appliances, before the electricity was restored. It took a toll on relatively healthy individuals such as my husband but was devastating to others already weakened by illness. Although Dad July was adamant about riding out the effects of the storm, and seemed to be holding up health wise, his health suddenly worsened the following month. We lost him two months after Hurricane Ike.

Extreme heat, humidity, exposure to sun...typically takes an immediate toll on those of us battling chronic health conditions. But...like my husband’s father, the damage it exacts...may not be apparent until weeks later.

Extreme heat, humidity, exposure to sun, and the absence of electronic medical machines, monitors, etc. that help manage our symptoms, typically takes an immediate toll on those of us battling chronic health conditions. But for others like my husband’s father, the damage it exacts on one’s health may not be apparent until weeks later.

...like many other drought stricken areas of the country, we face the possibility of rolling blackouts...a dire matter for anyone with chronic and/or critical health challenges.

Now, as we face one of the hottest summers in 30 years, with temperatures of 107 degrees and heat indexes near 120, like many other drought stricken areas of the country, we face the possibility of rolling blackouts. This is an inconvenience for most but a dire matter for anyone with chronic and/or critical health challenges.

If you are facing a...weather disaster or...a mandatory power blackout – be prepared for the worst, and expect and pray for, the best.

If you are facing a hurricane or other weather disaster, or the possibility of a mandatory power blackout – be prepared for the worst and expect and pray for, the best.

{See following post, “Survival Tips for Chronically Ill; Coping With Extreme Heat from Weather Disasters & Power Outages”]

Cry Some, Laugh More, Pray Often ~ Jamey Lacy July