Health Care and Gymnastics

One very popular sport is gymnastics, and especially when the Olympics roll around every four years. Gymnasts appear to be treated like rock stars if they attain the level of medal winners, and they typically get lucrative endorsement contracts. But the few seconds spent on the international stage at that level are only a result of many years of painful pJractice—countless hours of attempting that perfect vault, that ethereal experience on the parallel bars, or that unbelievable floor routine.

When that young man or women finishes a spotless performance, the crowd roars to its feet with thunderous applause. But if there is a fall, or a break in the pattern, or some other mistake made by the performing athlete, a collective sigh comes from the audience, and the gymnast is aghast in disbelief. Gymnastic routines take special training, and the effort can be brutal. The work is punishing, and the injuries can be traumatic. As Jim McKay used to say on ABC Wide World of Sports some years ago: “the thrill of victory, and the agony of defeat” are certainly emotions felt by everyone who enters this physical training and activity.

When you think of gymnastics, you may picture young women doing flips on the 4-inch-wide beam, or men doing incredible feats of strength on the rings. But those images actually represent only two of the seven commonly-defined types of gymnastics, according to the About.com website for gymnastics. Women's artistic gymnastics has the most participants and is generally the most well-known of the types of gymnastics. It's also one of the first tickets to sell out at the Olympic Games.

The Events: In women’s artistic gymnastics, athletes compete on four apparatus (vault, uneven bars, balance beam and floor exercise). Olympic competition consists of:

• Team -- Five athletes are on a team. In preliminaries, four athletes compete on each event and three scores count. In finals, three athletes compete on each event and every score counts towards the team total.

• Individual All-Around -- An athlete competes on all four events and the total score is added up.

• Individual Events -- An event champion is named on each apparatus.

Men’s artistic gymnastics is the second most popular type in the United States, and the oldest form of gymnastics. Men compete on six apparatus: floor exercise, pommel horse, still rings, vault, parallel bars and horizontal bar (usually called high bar). Olympic competition is held in the same format as women’s artistic gymnastics, with team, all-around and individual events competition. The only difference is that the men compete across their six events, whereas the women compete across their four events.

With Rhythmic gymnastics, gymnasts perform jumps, tosses, leaps, and other moves with different types of apparatus. This is currently a female-only sport in the Olympics. Athletes compete with five different types of apparatus: rope, hoop, ball, clubs and ribbon. Floor exercise is also an event in the lower levels of competition. At the Olympics, rhythmic gymnasts compete in:

• Individual All-Around -- An athlete competes on four of the five events (every two years, one apparatus is rotated out for that time period) and the total score is added.

• Individual Events -- A gymnast is named champion on each of the four apparatus currently in rotation.

• Group Competition -- Five gymnasts compete two different routines. In one routine, all of the athletes use the same piece of apparatus. In the second routine, the gymnasts use two different pieces of equipment (e.g. three gymnasts will use ball and two gymnasts will use hoop).

While not all injuries can be prevented, the risk of injuries can be reduced. The following is information from the American Academy of Pediatrics about how to prevent gymnastics injuries.

--Coaches: It is important for coaches to be experienced and familiar with the rules. Coaches should also be certified in CPR and first aid.

--Spotters: Proper supervision and spotting should be available at all times.

--Rules: "Clowning around" should not be tolerated in the gym, especially around the foam safety pit or trampolines.

--Equipment: Safety gear should fit properly and be well maintained.

• Clothing that allows for easy movement. (Body piercing should not be allowed around the face or mouth.)

• Wrist pads/braces like "Tiger Paws" to protect the wrist and decrease wrist pain.

• Heel supports like Tuli's heel cups placed in an ankle brace or Cheetahs (which have a heel cup built into a wrap around the ankle brace) cushion the heel for the barefoot athlete.

• Grips to protect the palms. Basic palm protectors are used by beginners. Dowel grips are used by the advanced gymnast.

• Apparatus should be well maintained and checked on a regular basis.

--Emergency Plan: Teams should develop and practice an emergency plan so that team members know their roles in emergency situations. The plan would include first aid and emergency contact information. All members of the team should receive a written copy each season. Parents also should be familiar with the plan and review it with their children.

For more info in greater detail about types of common injuries and some preventive medical needs by gymnasts, visit the website for Healthy Children.org.

Gymnastics safety is dependent on the gym owner and coaching staff taking responsibility for the safety and welfare of their athletes and for the policies and procedures operating within the gym. First and foremost, to run a safe, successful gymnastics program, gym owners must ensure that their coaching staff is qualified, experienced and insured. The original outlay for a safe, effective program includes training, equipment and insurance. It can be an expensive endeavor, but is necessary to prevent injuries and the lawsuits that may arise from them. The safe use of gymnastics equipment requires certain measures such as preventive maintenance and education. Much more info can be found at the AZCentral Healthy Living website.

Gymnastics is a fun and rewarding sport, and for even those who are not competing for trophies, medals, or awards, it is a great way to get fit and healthy. There are many local gymnastic facilities around the country, and you can join them for a nominal membership. Gymnasts often start out young, so as a parent you need to do your homework to find a location that is clean, reputable, and has good business policies, a trained and caring staff, and great customer service. You and your kids will benefit.

Until next time.

HEALTH CARE AND DAYCARE

Are you a parent or guardian that uses or has used a daycare facility for your children? Don’t put yourself down if you do. Many parents use this type of option if one or both parents are working outside the home. However, there may be some things about daycare that you would want to know and that may surprise you.

There are few parenting issues as hot-button as daycare -- is it good for kids or a glorified form of neglect? According to iVillage Health, recent studies have weighed in on both sides, saying that poor quality care can lead to behavior problems, while more nurturing, attentive environments can lead to higher test scores in grade school. But to many parents, exactly what happens in that romper room between 9 and 5 is still unclear. According to some mothers who’ve popped by unexpectedly and longtime daycare workers, a lot more goes on than you think. Here is one of the sixteen tips they suggest are worth your time to know:

Your Child May Be Calling the Daycare Teachers “Mommy”--Kids, especially young ones, often transfer feelings of affection from one person to another -- and the language that goes with it. If your children spend all day with someone who is feeding them, changing them, hugging them and treating their boo-boos, it’s perfectly normal for your child to attach the name usually reserved for that role -- “Mommy” -- to that person. Often the daycare worker will be embarrassed that she’s been given this name, however, and forgo telling the parent.

What to do: Don’t take it personally. It doesn’t mean your child loves you less, or wants to pack a bag and move in with “Miss Kathy.” It does mean she feels comfortable with her caregivers. Consider it a bonus that your child is being well-cared for and loved.

For the other 15 tips on daycare expectations, you can find them at this website: http://www.ivillage.com/what-really-happens-daycare/6-b-259065 .

Also, according to this website http://www.daycare.com/news/daycare_and_weather.html , one of the important functions of a daycare facility is to keep an eye on the weather. Watching the weather is part of a child care provider’s job. Planning for playtime, field trips, or weather safety is part of the daily routine. The changes in weather require the child care provider to monitor the health and safety of children. What clothing, beverages, and protections are appropriate?

1. Clothe children to maintain a comfortable body temperature (warmer months - lightweight cotton, colder months - wear layers of clothing).

2. Beverages help the body maintain a comfortable temperature. Water or fruit juices are best. Avoid high-sugar content beverages and soda pop.

3. Sunscreen may be used year around. Use a sunscreen labeled as SPF-15 or higher. Read and follow all label instructions for the sunscreen product. Look for sunscreen with UVB and UVA ray protection.

4. Shaded play areas protect children from the sun.

Much more information about daycare in general can be found at their home page website: http://www.daycare.com/ .

A good quality daycare facility can be expensive. Options range from in-home with small numbers of children to large urban locations with large staffs, many workers, and lots of kids. Some are secular and some are faith based. The size of your city and whether you choose a center or in-home care can affect the rates. You should research how full centers usually remain, the training/experience of the childcare provider, and what is included in the rate. What you pay for childcare is not as important as whether you are comfortable with the care your child is receiving and whether your child is in a safe and nurturing environment. More information with lots of regional examples for pricing are disclosed at this website: http://www.daycarematch.com/daycare/average-childcare-rates/ .

About 8.2 million kids—about 40 percent of children under five—spend at least part of their week in the care of somebody other than a parent. Most of them are in centers, although a sizable minority attend home day cares, according to New Republic magazine. Experts recommend a ratio of one caregiver for every three infants between six and 18 months, but just one-third of children are in settings that meet that standard. Depending on the state, some providers may need only minimal or no training in safety, health, or child development. And because child care is so poorly paid, it doesn’t attract the highly skilled. In 2011, the median annual salary for a child care worker was $19,430.

Do you have a back up plan? Regardless of your child care setting, family child care or center-based, it is important to think about a back up child care plan before you need one. There may be times when you know your provider will not be available and there will be times when your provider may have to be closed on short notice due to illness or an emergency, according to the Child Aware website. To avoid last-minute searches for back up child care, have a plan in place when you start with your primary child care provider. Here are some helpful hints:

--Check with your provider. Your child care provider may have information about back up child care that they suggest or have made arrangements with.

--Plan ahead. Know your provider's schedule. Make note of dates they will be closed (holidays and vacations). These may have been included in the parent handbook or contract. While you can not predict illness, you can be prepared for the planned closures.

--Have more than one back up. You may have family in the area willing to help out from time to time. There may be a stay-at-home mother who has mentioned that she's available if you ever need someone. Create a list of those willing to help out when back up care is needed.

Will your employer help out? Check to see if there are any back up child care programs available through your company. Some employers may offer on-site back up care that employees are able to access. There are also companies that have designated "back up spots" at child care centers within the community. Depending on your job, you may be able to work out a telecommuting arrangement while your provider is closed. More details about daycare and available options can be found at this website: http://childcareaware.org/ .

Back up is not just back up. When locating a back up provider take the same steps you did in your initial search. Ask the questions, conduct the interviews, visit the location, and ask for references. A temporary solution can still leave a lasting impact on your child. You want to make sure you and your child are both comfortable with the arrangement you select. Do your research so you can feel comfortable with your choice of a daycare facility, according to BabyCenter.com's website.

Also, there are pre-tax credits available that can help you save money using those dollars to offset the out of pocket costs you pay for daycare. Daycare and childcare payments can take a big bite out of your paycheck. That's especially painful in a tough economy, when you are looking for ways to cut expenses. Fortunately, you can recoup some of the costs by either enrolling in a flexible spending account (FSA) or taking the childcare credit at tax time.

To qualify for either an FSA or the childcare tax credit, both you and your spouse must have earned income. Exception: One of you was a full-time student for five months of the tax year. If you work for a company that offers an FSA, here's a website that is very detailed that can show you how to figure out which option is best for you. Either way, it's like getting a sale price on childcare – something that's virtually never marked down. Go to : http://www.babycenter.com/0_tax-time-flexible-spending-plans-versus-the-childcare-credit_3651253.bc .

Regardless of your situation, when daycare is involved, you can bet that you will have a certain amount of angst when it comes to making your decision. However, with the right location, and the right personnel, you can leave your child with confidence. That being said, it’s never easy. Many parents are concerned about their children's safety, health, social and emotional feelings, and more. In most cases, those fears are soon dissipated. If you ever have concerns, though, about any daycare or its staff, always do the right thing by considering the welfare of your child above all else. As well, report any problems that you notice, no matter how slight. After all, their job is to take care of your kids. Your job is to make sure they do it right.

Until next time.

HEALTH CARE AND PROTEIN

One of the essential building blocks of the human body is protein. Commonly perceived as being a major component of meat, protein is actually present in many types of foods. Healthy individuals usually have sufficient amounts of protein in their body, but in some cases you can actually consume more of it than you need on a daily basis.


According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), proteins are part of every cell, tissue, and organ in our bodies. These body proteins are constantly being broken down and replaced. The protein in the foods we eat is digested into amino acids that are later used to replace these proteins in our bodies. Protein is found in the following foods:

• Meats, poultry, and fish
• Legumes (dry beans and peas)
• Tofu
• Eggs
• Nuts and seeds
• Milk and milk products
• Grains, some vegetables, and some fruits (provide only small amounts of protein relative to other sources)

Proteins are made up of amino acids. Think of amino acids as the building blocks. There are 20 different amino acids that join together to make all types of protein. Some of these amino acids can't be made by our bodies, so these are known as essential amino acids. It's essential that our diet provide these. In the diet, protein sources are labeled according to how many of the essential amino acids they provide:

• A complete protein source is one that provides all of the essential amino acids. You may also hear these sources called high quality proteins. Animal-based foods; for example, meat, poultry, fish, milk, eggs, and cheese are considered complete protein sources.

• An incomplete protein source is one that is low in one or more of the essential amino acids. Complementary proteins are two or more incomplete protein sources that together provide adequate amounts of all the essential amino acids.

For example, according to the NIH, rice contains low amounts of certain essential amino acids; however, these same essential amino acids are found in greater amounts in dry beans. Similarly, dry beans contain lower amounts of other essential amino acids that can be found in larger amounts in rice. Together, these two foods can provide adequate amounts of all the essential amino acids the body needs. More information can be found at this site: http://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/everyone/basics/protein.html .

According to this website, http://www.healthaliciousness.com/articles/foods-highest-in-protein.php , while the body can manufacture several amino acids required for protein production, a set of essential amino acids needs to be obtained from animal and/or vegetable protein sources. Animal protein sources contain the complete set of essential amino acids, while all the essential amino acids can be obtained by eating a wide variety of plant foods. There is considerable debate over the amount of protein a person needs to consume per day, the current recommended daily intake (RDI) of protein is 46 grams for women aged 19-70 and 56 grams for men aged 19-70. Any excess protein consumed is turned into energy by the body, and it is controversial whether this excess protein causes a strain on the liver. A deficiency in protein leads to muscle atrophy, and impaired functioning of the human body in general.

Here are five tips for getting sufficient protein in your diet, according to the Harvard School of Public Health, found at this site http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/protein/ :

1. Mix it up. Most reasonable diets provide enough protein for healthy people. Eating a variety of foods will ensure that you get all of the amino acids you need.

2. Go low on saturated fat. Beans, fish and poultry provide plenty of protein, without much saturated fat. Steer clear of fatty meats and use whole-milk dairy products sparingly.

3. Limit red meat—and avoid processed meat. Research suggests that people who eat even modest amounts of red meat have a higher risk of developing colon cancer, heart disease, and diabetes, and a higher risk of dying from heart disease, cancer, or any cause. There’s also substantial evidence that replacing red meat with fish, poultry, beans, or nuts, could help prevent heart disease and diabetes—and could lower the risk of early death. So make red meat (beef, pork, lamb) only an occasional part of your diet—no more than two 3-ounce servings a week—if you eat it at all. And skip the processed stuff—bacon, hot dogs, and deli meats—since that’s linked even more strongly to cancer, heart disease, and diabetes risk.

4. Eat soy in moderation. Tofu and other soy foods are an excellent red meat alternative. In some cultures, tofu and soy foods are a protein staple, and we don’t suggest any change. But if you haven’t grown up eating lots of soy, there’s no reason to go overboard: Two to 4 servings a week is a good target; eating more than that likely won’t offer any health benefits and we can’t be sure that there is no harm. And stay away from supplements that contain concentrated soy protein or extracts, such as isoflavones, as we just don’t know the long term effects.

5. Balance carbs and protein. Cutting back on highly processed carbohydrates and increasing protein improves levels of blood triglycerides and HDL, and so may reduce your chances of having a heart attack, stroke, or other form of cardiovascular disease. It may also make you feel full longer, and stave off hunger pangs.

It's important to eat the right amount and the right kind of protein to get the health benefits. Be mindful of the types of protein you consume as well as the amounts. There are protein supplements you can take, but talk with your doctor first before starting a regimen using those products or any other type of high protein diet. Sometimes, too much of a good thing is not good for you. As always, each person is different in their physical makeup. Your family doctor can help you design a good plan for your individual health needs, and you can be referred to a dietician if you have special needs. Protein is good, but be careful about your consumption.

Health Care and Foot Odor

When you take your shoes off, is there a pungent odor? Is the smell just so-so, or is it strong enough to clear the Serengeti from all wildlife? Do people faint who may be passing by, or just run in the opposite direction as fast as possible. When your socks come off after your shoes are removed, is the local Hazmat team called out? If so, then you may be a victim of foot odor.

According to the American Academy of Podiatric Practice Management (AAPPM), the feet and hands contain more sweat glands than any other part of the body, with roughly 3,000 glands per square inch. Smelly feet are not only embarrassing, but can be physically uncomfortable as well.

Feet smell for two reasons: 1) shoe wear, and 2) sweating of the feet. The interaction between the perspiration and the bacteria that thrive in shoes and socks generates the odor. Therefore, any attempt to reduce foot odor has to address both sweating and footwear.

Smelly feet or excessive sweating can also be caused by an inherited condition, called hyperhidrosis, which primarily affects men. Stress, some medications, fluid intake, and hormonal changes also can increase the amount of perspiration our bodies produce. In general, smelly feet can be controlled with a few preventive measures:

• Always wear socks with closed shoes.
• Avoid wearing nylon socks or plastic shoes. Instead, wear shoes made of leather, canvas, mesh, or other materials that let your feet breathe.
• Bathe feet daily in lukewarm water, using a mild soap. Dry thoroughly.
• Change socks and shoes at least once a day.
• Check for fungal infections between toes and on the bottoms of your feet. If any redness or dry, patchy skin is observed, get treatment right away.
• Don't wear the same pair of shoes two days in a row. If you frequently wear athletic shoes, alternate pairs so that the shoes can dry out. Give your shoes at least 24 hours to air out between wearings; if the odor doesn't go away, discard the shoes.
• Dust your feet frequently with a non-medicated baby powder or foot powder. Applying antibacterial ointment also may help.
• Practice good foot hygiene to keep bacteria levels at a minimum.
• Wear thick, soft socks to help draw moisture away from the feet. Cotton and other absorbent materials are best.

Persistent foot odor can indicate a low-grade infection or a severe case of hereditary sweating. In these cases, a prescription ointment may be required to treat the problem. More info can be found at this website: http://www.aappm.org/library/1932/SmellyFeetandFootOdor.html .

Your kitchen is full of natural home remedies that can help banish foot odor, according to Discovery Fit & Health. If removing your footwear at the end of the day calls to mind the scent of a postgame locker room, give these natural home remedies a try.

Home Remedies from the Cupboard:

Baking Soda. Don't just let those shoes sit there without odor support! Bring on the baking soda! Deodorize shoes by sprinkling 1 or 2 teaspoons baking soda inside to absorb moisture and hide odors. For added fragrance, combine 3 tablespoons baking soda with 3 tablespoons ground, dried sage leaves. Combine the sage and baking soda and place into an airtight glass jar. After removing your shoes for the day, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of the mixture into each shoe. Shake and leave overnight. The following day, keep the sage-soda in the shoes. In the evening remove excess sage-soda mix, and replace it with a fresh supply. Repeat nightly. Another way to use baking soda is in a foot bath. Add 2 tablespoons baking soda to a bowl of warm water. Soak feet every night for a month.

--Cornstarch: A less fancy solution to keeping shoes deodorized and dry is to sprinkle the inside with 1 to 2 teaspoons cornstarch.
--Salt: Add table salt or Epsom salts to water for a foot soak. Pour a few teaspoons of salt into a tub of warm water. Soak for ten minutes.
--Vinegar: Soak your feet several times a week in an apple cider or plain vinegar bath. Mix 1/3 cup vinegar into a bowl of warm water. Soak for 10 to 15 minutes.

Home Remedies from the Refrigerator:

--Ginger: Mash a 1- or 2-inch piece of ginger into a pulp, put it into a handkerchief or piece of gauze, and soak it in some hot water for a few minutes. Rub the ginger liquid onto each foot nightly after taking a shower. Try for two weeks.

--Radish: You can't squeeze blood from a turnip, but you can squeeze an anti-stink solution from a radish. Juice about two dozen radishes, add 1/4 teaspoon glycerine, and pour in a squirt or spray-top bottle. Spritz on toes to reduce foot odor.

Home Remedies from the Sink:

--Black tea: Soak tootsies in black tea. Tannic acid, a component of tea, is thought to have astringent properties that prevent feet from perspiring. To make a foot-tea soak, brew 5 bags black tea in 1 quart boiling water. Let cool, add ice cubes (during summertime), and soak in this "iced tea for the toes" bath for 20 to 30 minutes.

--Water: A remedy for sweaty feet involves alternating footbaths of hot and cold water to help reduce blood flow to your feet and reduce perspiration. After luxuriating in a hot foot bath, shock those toes by dipping them into a second foot bath containing cool water, ice cubes, and 1 to 2 teaspoons lemon juice (if available). Rub your feet with alcohol following the bath. Try this dual treatment once a day, especially in warmer months.

With some diligence on your part and a few natural home remedies, you can banish foot odor for good. More info about this subject can be found at this site: http://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/natural-medicine/home-remedies/home-remedies-for-foot-odor.htm .

And finally, a few more tips to help reduce foot odor, from this website, complete with photos: http://www.wikihow.com/Get-Rid-of-Foot-Odor .

• Stress can stimulate sweating. That's why you might notice that your life and your feet stink at the same time.
• Try a natural deodorant that is crystal based. These sprays work by making the skin inhospitable for bacteria
• If you're in a pinch, you can scrub your feet with an anti-bacterial wipe or a paper towel soaked in rubbing alcohol.
• Make sure you are getting the USDA recommended daily allowance (RDA) of zinc. A zinc deficiency can lead to foot odor, as well as general body odor AND bad breath. Make sure zinc is included in your multi- vitamin or get a separate zinc supplement.
• Powder your shoes outside, where there is good ventilation, e.g., on the porch
• Use foot powders that are mostly made of cornstarch or other non-talc ingredients.
• Do not walk with only your socks on. They pick up lots of bacteria this way. Then, when you put your shoes back on, the bacteria population explodes in the moist, warm environment.
• Clipping and brushing your toe nails will probably help as well.

Foot odor is embarrassing, but it is not life threatening. When you want to get serious about taking care of this socially unacceptable health care issue, follow the tips in this blog that can help you overcome smelly feet. After all, you really don’t want people choking, fainting, or ignoring you all the time if they detect your foot odor, or if they smell you coming toward them before they see you enter the room.

Until next time.

Health Care and Memorial Day 2013

After the Civil War ended, there rose up a group of individuals who dedicated themselves to promote the need to remember the fallen soldiers of that horrific conflict. No other war before or since had as much devastating and catastrophic results on American lives than the “War of Northern Aggression,” as it was called in the South, or “The Great Rebellion” as it was known in the northern states. Over 600,000 men and women in uniform on both sides gave up their lives in the ultimate sacrifice to fight for what they believed. Regardless of the political leaning of state rights versus the federal mandate of ending slavery and preserving the Union, the true loss as a result of four terribly bloody years of war was that so many died.

To honor those who gave up their lives, a national holiday was created to memorialize those individuals. Originally known as “Decoration Day,” the graves were decorated with flowers, flags, and letters of remembrance. Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on May 5th, 1868, by then General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in the general order No. 11 and the first observance. It is now celebrated in almost every State on the last Monday in May. Celebrating on the Monday ensures that a 3-day weekend is observed for Federal holidays.

Unfortunately the traditional observance of Memorial Day has diminished over the years. Many Americans nowadays have forgotten he meaning and traditions of Memorial Day. At many cemeteries, the graves of those fallen have become increasingly ignored whereas they used to be decorated with American flags and the like. While there are towns and cities that still hold Memorial Day parades, many have not held a parade in quite some time.

There are those who take Memorial Day to honor the dead, not just those in battle. But what may be needed to return the solemn, and even sacred, spirit back to Memorial Day is for a return to its traditional day of observance. Many feel that when Congress made the day into a three-day weekend in with the National Holiday Act of 1971, it made it all the easier for people to be distracted from the spirit and meaning of the day.

To assist people in remembering, the “National Moment of Remembrance” resolution was passed in December of 2000 which asks at 3pm local time, for all Americans to “voluntarily and informally observe in their own way a moment of silence to remember and respect and pausing from whatever they are doing for a moment of silence or otherwise listening to ‘Taps.’ For some more background information on this very special holiday, you can go to www.usmemorialday.org .

Here are a few comments from the official Marine Corps website, and Commandant General James Amos: “AS WE OBSERVE MEMORIAL DAY AND HONOR THOSE WHO HAVE DIED IN SERVICE TO OUR NATION, IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT WE REFLECT ON THE FIDELITY AND SACRIFICE THEY EMBODIED WHILE DEFENDING FREEDOM AND DEMOCRACY. OUR NATION HAS BEEN AT WAR FOR MORE THAN A DECADE AND HAS SEEN NEARLY 6,450 OF ITS SERVICEMEN AND WOMEN FALL IN IRAQ AND AFGHANISTAN....KEEP FAITH WITH THEIR MEMORY AND HONOR THEIR SURVIVING LOVED ONES.

2. “….REFLECT AND REMEMBER THOSE FORWARD DEPLOYED AND FORWARD ENGAGED IN HARM'S WAY, BRAVELY STANDING WATCH AND FIGHTING FOR FREEDOM AROUND THE WORLD. THEIR HEROISM ENSURES OUR COUNTRY'S CONTINUED SECURITY AND PROSPERITY....SET ASIDE TIME TO REFLECT ON OUR WOUNDED WARRIORS WHO CONTINUE TO OVERCOME THE CHALLENGES OF THE VISIBLE AND INVISIBLE IMPACTS OF WAR.

3. "THIS WEEKEND ALSO BEGINS THE ANNUAL SUMMER HOLIDAY SEASON. TAKE CARE OF EACH OTHER AND CAREFULLY CONSIDER THE RISKS INVOLVED WITH ALL OF YOUR SUMMER ACTIVITIES, ESPECIALLY THOSE INVOLVING ALCOHOL....REMIND EACH OTHER OF THE IMPORTANCE TO OUR MISSION, BOTH IN COMBAT AND WHILE AT HOME WITH YOUR FAMILY….FOR THOSE DEPLOYED, STAY SAFE AND CONTINUE TO SERVE WITH PRIDE KNOWING YOU ARE IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS.”

The long Memorial Day holiday weekend is on the horizon and for many, plans will include taking to the highway, pulling out the grill for a backyard barbecue or having fun in the water. The American Red Cross (www.redcross.org ) has steps everyone can follow to stay safe whatever their plans include.

1.) DRIVE SAFELY--With more people on the roads, it’s important to drive safely. Be well rested and alert, use seat belts, observe speed limits and follow the rules of the road. If plans include drinking alcohol, designate a driver who won’t drink. Other tips for a safe trip include:

--Give one’s full attention to the road. Avoid distractions such as cell phones.
--Don’t follow another vehicle too closely.
--Use caution in work zones.
--Make frequent stops.
--Clean the vehicle’s lights and windows to help the driver see, especially at night.
--Turn the headlights on as dusk approaches, or during inclement weather. Don’t overdrive the headlights.

2.) GRILLING SAFETY--The Red Cross offers these tips to stay safe while cooking those tasty cookout treats:

--Never grill indoors – not in the house, camper, tent, or any enclosed area.
--Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use, and make sure everyone, including the pets, stays away from the grill.
--Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, deck, tree branches or anything that could catch fire.
--Keep the chef safe by using the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill.
--Never add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited.
--Be ready to close the lid and turn off the grill to cut off the fuel if necessary.
--Keep a fireproof pan under the grill to catch any falling ash or grease.
--Trim excess fat from meat to avoid flare-ups.
--Wash one’s hands in hot soapy water before preparing food, after touching raw meat and after any interruptions such as using the bathroom, handling pets, stopping to do something with children.

3.) SWIMMING SAFETY--Learning to swim is one of the best steps someone can take to be safe around water. People can contact the local Red Cross and learn how to swim as well as get the facts about water safety, home pool safety, first aid and CPR classes. Other swimming safety tips include:

--Swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards.
--Always swim with a buddy; do not allow anyone to swim alone.
--Have young children or inexperienced swimmers wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets around water, but do not rely on life jackets alone.
--Have appropriate equipment, such as reaching or throwing equipment, a cell phone, life jackets and a first aid kit.
--Know how and when to call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number.

4.) POOL SAFETY--It’s important to constantly supervise children when they are near water.

--Never leave a young child unattended near water, and do not trust a child’s life to another child; teach children to always ask permission to go near water.

--Avoid distractions when supervising children around water. If a child is missing, check the water first. Seconds count in preventing death or disability.

Regardless of your reason to celebrate Memorial Day, and whatever your activities may be, always remember to be safe, so you’re not sorry later. This national holiday has special meaning not only to the nation, but also to the families of those who lost friends and family in any case when serving in uniform. Then, take some time to reflect on your blessings of living in the “land of the free, and the home of the brave.” Ask God to continue to protect your family and those who serve in harm’s way. Seek His divine guidance not only for yourself, but also for those who are in positions of leadership in the armed forces and in all levels of government—local, state, and national. Look to Him for all your needs.

Until next time.

Health Care and Fire

At some point in early human history, mankind discovered fire. That incident must have been one of the most exciting events ever experienced up to that point. No one really knows how fire was originally found. Perhaps it came about through an accident, or maybe it happened through a supernatural occurrence. However fire was first brought about on the planet, the first person to have seen it surely found out quickly that it could at once be a tremendous tool, but at the same time extremely dangerous. After all, fire is hot, and it burns.

Fire can destroy your house and all of your possession¬s in less than an hour, and it can reduce an entire forest to a pile of ash and charred wood. It's also a terrifying weapon, with nearly unlimited destructive power. Fire kills more people every year than any other force of nature, according to How Stuff Works.

But at the same time, fire is extraordinarily helpful. It gave humans the first form of portable light and heat. It also gave us the ability to cook food, forge metal tools, form pottery, harden bricks and drive power plants. There are few things that have done as much harm to humanity as fire, and few things that have done as much good. It is certainly one of the most important ¬forces in human history. But what is it, exactly?

The ancient Greeks considered fire one of the major elements in the universe, alongside water, earth and air. This grouping makes intuitive sense: You can feel fire, just like you can feel earth, water and air. You can also see it and smell it, and you can move it from place to place. But fire is really something completely different. Earth, water and air are all forms of matter -- they are made up of millions and millions of atoms collected together. Fire isn't matter at all. It's a visible, tangible side effect of matter changing form.

Typically, fire comes from a chemical reaction between oxygen in the atmosphere and some sort of fuel (wood or gasoline, for example). Much more information can be found at this website: http://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/earth/geophysics/fire.htm .

Fires often occur in structures like homes and apartment buildings, and many take place during night time hours. Unfortunately, according to www.KidsHealth.org, many kids will try to hide from a fire, often in a closet, under a bed, or in a corner. But if taught basic fire facts, they'd be better able to protect themselves. Teach your kids that fires spread quickly, that most fire-related deaths are not from burns but from smoke inhalation, and that dangerous fumes can overcome a person in just a few minutes. Here are some fire safety tips that everyone should learn:

• Cover your mouth and nose with a moist towel or an article of clothing to keep out dangerous fumes while evacuating.
• Crawl under the smoke to safety, staying as low to the ground as possible (smoke always rises).
• Touch any door (not the doorknob) to see if it is hot, and if it is, not to open it — find another exit.
• Locate the nearest stairway marked "Fire Exit" if you live in an apartment building, or a fire escape if the stairway isn't accessible — always avoid elevators during a fire.
• Never stop to take personal belongings or pets or to make a phone call (even to 911) while evacuating.
• Never go back into a burning building once safely outside.
• Stop, drop, and roll to extinguish flames if an article of clothing catches on fire.
• Kids should also always be dressed for bed in flame-retardant sleepwear.

Kids have fire drills at school and adults have them at work. Why shouldn't you have them at home, too? Fires are frightening and can cause panic. By rehearsing different scenarios, your family will be less likely to waste precious time trying to figure out what to do. Planned escape routes are a necessity, especially if a fire were to occur during the night. Go through each room in your house and think about the possible exits. You should have in your mind two escape routes from each room, in case one is blocked by fire. Inspect the room to make sure that furniture and other objects are not blocking doorways or windows, according to the Kids Health website.

Make sure that the windows in every room are easy to open and are not painted over or nailed shut — remember, these may be your only way out in a fire. If you live in an apartment building, make sure any safety bars on windows are removable in an emergency. Be sure to know the locations of the closest stairwells or fire escapes and where they lead. If your house is more than one story tall or if you live above the ground floor of an apartment building, an escape ladder is an important safety feature. You should have one escape ladder made of fire-safe material (aluminum, not rope) in each upper-story bedroom that is occupied by a person who is capable of using it.

Like fire extinguishers, escape ladders should be operated by adults only. The ladder must be approved by an independent testing laboratory, its length must be appropriate for your home, and it must support the weight of the heaviest adult in the house. Discuss and rehearse the escape routes you've planned for each room of your home. Designate a meeting place outside your house or apartment building that is a safe distance away (a mailbox, a fence, or even a distinctive-looking tree will do) where everyone can be accounted for after they escape.

Then, every so often, test your plan. Use your finger to set off the smoke detector and let everyone know it's time for a fire drill. See if everyone can evacuate your home and gather outside within 3 minutes — the time it can take for an entire house to go up in flames. Be sure any babysitters in your home know all escape routes and plans in case of a fire. More details about fire safety can also be found at this site: http://kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/home/fire.html# .

According to www.MedicineNet.com, burns are classified based upon their depth and are as follows:

• A first degree burn is considered superficial, causing localized inflammation of tissues. Most mild sunburns fall into this category.

• Second degree burns are deeper and, in addition to increased pain, cause inflammation and reddening of the skin. Blisters will also be present.

• Third degree burns are moving layers deeper, involving all layers of the skin and severely damaging it. Third degree burns are often whitish and leathery in appearance, due to the nerve and blood vessel damage.

First aid treatment for 2nd and 3rd degree burns:

• Remove the victim from the fire, explosion, or heat source, remembering not to take on any undue risk yourself.
• Remove any burning material from the victim’s body and/or the affected area.
• Call 911 or activate the emergency response system in your area.
• Once the victim is safely secured from additional harm, treat the person for shock by keeping him or her warm, still, and focused on conversation. Try to wrap the injured areas in a clean sheet if possible.
• DO NOT use ice or cold water to treat the burn or the victim, as this may result in a drop in body temperature, increasing the risk for shock and hypothermia.
• Burns on the face, hands, and feet are always to be considered a significant injury.

Treatment of minor burns (1st or 2nd degree in a small area of the body):

• Gently clean and cool the wound with lukewarm water.
• Do NOT use butter or oil to treat the burn.
• Remove all rings, bracelets, and articles that may cause further issues as swelling occurs.
• Apply a topical antibiotic ointment like Neosporin to help treat the burn.
• If the burn appears to be more severe than initially thought and you suspect 2nd or 3rd degree burn status, medical advice should be sought.

Fire destroys billions of dollars each year in property and kills thousands of people. According to the National Fire Protection Association, in 2011 U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 1,389,500 fires. These fires resulted n 3,005 civilian fire fatalities, 17,500 civilian fire injuries and an estimated $11,659,000,000 in direct property loss. There was a civilian fire death every 208 minutes and a civilian fire injury every 30 minutes in 2011, the most recent year of recorded incidents. Home fires caused 2,520, or 84%, of the civilian fire deaths. Fires accounted for five percent of the 30,098,000 total calls. Always be careful around any type of fire. If the fire is destructive in nature, run to safety if at all possible to save your life and the lives of those around you.

Until next time.

Health Care and Sewage

One of the most disgusting health care hazards is the one created by the problem of sewage, especially if it is caused by faulty plumbing or drainage issues. Also, it is a severe problem when left untreated or available in open spaces. Not only does it smell, but the medical conditions that are caused by exposure are potentially life threatening.

According to www.AmericanRivers.org , every year hundreds of billions of gallons of untreated sewage flow into our rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. Unknowingly, many Americans and their loved ones risk serious illness when untreated sewage seeps into the water they use for recreation or drinking. The EPA estimates that up to 3.5 million people fall ill from swimming in waters contaminated by sanitary sewer overflows alone ever year. However, the number of illnesses caused by raw sewage could be much higher. Many people that get sick from untreated sewage aren’t aware of the cause of their illness and don’t report it to their doctors or local health officials. Over 850 million gallons of untreated sewage overflows from combined sewer systems every year.

Raw sewage can be a serious health risk particularly if it enters drinking water or even water that is used for fishing and swimming. The pathogens related to untreated sewage are bacteria, parasites and viruses that are most commonly associated with acute illnesses like diarrhea. However, there is one virus that can cause an acute respiratory illness which are the adenoviruses (but they are also associated with illnesses such as gastroenteritis, conjunctivitis and rash illness), according to American Rivers.

The symptoms of respiratory illness caused by the adenovirus from untreated sewage can range from the common cold to pneumonia, croup and bronchitis. Those persons with compromised immune systems could be at serious risk of complications related to the adenovirus. If one is also in a condition of stress and overcrowding, you can develop acute respiratory disease (ARD). Some adenoviruses, like Adv36 (AD-36) may be associated with causing obesity. More information can be found at this website: http://www.reference.com/motif/health/health-effects-of-breathing-in-raw-sewage .

According to this commercial site: http://www.restorationsos.com/education/sewage-backup/the-hazards-of-sewage-backup.asp , sewage backup hazards are better understood once you learn what, in fact, sewage is; or as it also called raw sewage, sewage sludge, or septic tank waste. Raw sewage is mainly gray or black water. It usually contains the organic waste and wastewater produced by household and industrial sources. Sewage typically contains everything from soap to solid waste, human excrement, industrial effluent, and debris. It is discharged by drains and sewer lines. Excrement is the major source of harmful microorganisms such as coliform, fecal coliform, Escherichia coliform (E. coli), and Enterococcus. Exposure to sewage or its products may result in a number of diseases:

Gastroenteritis--An inflammation of the stomach and the intestine. Gastroenteritis may result in diarrhea with vomiting and cramps when irritation is excessive. When caused by an infectious agent, it is often associated with fever.

Hepatitis--Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis caused by a virus is known as viral hepatitis. When Hepatitis is a result of sewage backup it is often characterized by inflammation of the liver and jaundice.

Occupational Asthma--A respiratory disorder characterized by attacks of breathlessness, chest tightness and wheezing.

Weil's Disease--An acute feverish disease marked by gastroenteritis, mild jaundice, persistent and severe headache.

Allergic Alveolitis--Inflammation of the alveoli in the lungs. It is rarely reported with relation to sewage backup. However, when reported it is characterized by fever, breathlessness, dry cough, and aching muscles and joints.

Per the abovementioned site, here are some additional health risks:

• Fatal damage to liver, kidneys and blood
• Infection of skin or eyes

There are 3 common transmission ways for microorganisms to enter a human body:

1. Hand-to-Mouth Contact: This is the most common transmission way and it occurs during eating, drinking and smoking. Hand-to-mouth contact also happens while wiping the face with contaminated hands or gloves, or by licking splashes from the skin.

2. Skin Contact Skin contact with contaminated organisms is often possible through cuts, scratches, or penetrating wounds. Certain organisms can enter the body through the surfaces of the eyes, nose and mouth.

3. Inhalation Contaminated organisms may penetrate the body simply as we breathe aerosolized particles or contaminated dust.

According to this article: http://ezinearticles.com/?Sewage-Damage---The-Health-Risks-it-Poses-to-People&id=1911368 , the general public is the one being at risk of sewage damage. It is ordinary to hear and read news about cases of hepatitis, cholera and other diseases due to exposure to untreated sewage. Over 120 variants of viruses can be seen in human feces, urine and sewage damage which can lead their way to sewage. Parasitic agents such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium can cause chronic intestinal illnesses in children and adults. Bacterial pathogens abound in places with sewage damage can consist of strains of gram-negative organisms like Campylobacter, Salmonella and E. coli.

Aside from the strains of gram-negative bacteria, gram-negative bacteria also produce endotoxins which occur at the point of cell's death and elimination. Endotoxins can manifest in the air through remediation, take for example the cleaning and drying of infected carpets. Public health risks can also be incurred through improper sewage damage disposal and transport from hospitals and other industrial companies. These could lead to public health's declining status due to unscrupulous manner of managing their wastes, per the ezine article.

Exposure to sewage is dangerous. Any time you see it, you should report the case immediately to health authorities, or even call 911. Stay away from any open sewage or areas that have been recently damaged by the waste. If your home or office suffers from an issue regarding this health hazard, deal with it right away by contacting reputable companies that specialize in treatment, removal, and restoration. Sewage can cause life threatening diseases, so be careful when any problems develop.

Until next time.