The Story of "OLD GLORY" from "The Flag"

Authored by BlueAngel on
Monday, May 31, 2004

The following is a part of the history of the American Flag Lore. It is from the previous site of "The American Flag" Please enjoy.

Story of "Old Glory''

The name "Old Glory" was first applied to the U.S. flag by a young sea captain who lived in Salem, Mass. On his twenty-first birthday, March 17, 1824, Capt. William Driver was presented a beautiful flag by his mother and a group of Salem girls. Driver was delighted with the gift. He exclaimed, "I name her 'Old Glory.'" Then Old Glory accompanied the captain on his many voyages.

Captain Driver quit the sea in 1837. He settled in Nashville, Tenn. On patriotic days he displayed Old Glory proudly from a rope extending from his house to a tree across the street. After Tennessee seceded from the Union in 1861, Captain Driver hid Old Glory. He sewed the flag inside a comforter. When Union soldiers entered Nashville on February 25, 1862, Driver removed Old Glory from its hiding place. He carried the flag to the state capitol building and raised it.

Shortly before his death, the old sea captain placed a small bundle into the arms of his daughter. He said to her, "Mary Jane, this is my ship flag, Old Glory. It has been my constant companion. I love it as a mother loves her child. Cherish it as I have cherished it."

The flag remained as a precious heirloom in the Driver family until 1922. Then it was sent to the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, where it is carefully preserved under glass today.

The American Flag and For Which It Stands

Authored by BlueAngel on
Monday, May 31, 2004

This entry I think is appropriate for this day of remembrance.

I Am Your Flag

There are some traditions and ways of doing things that have deep meaning. In the future, you'll see flags folded and now you will know why.

MEDICARE MEDICINE DISCOUNT CARD "SCAM" ALERT

Authored by BlueAngel on
Monday, May 31, 2004

The following information is placed here for your information concerning a very personal/financial topic that affects all of us on limited incomes.

Fact Sheet
For Immediate Release: Contact:
Thursday, April 22, 2004 CMS Office of Public Affairs
202-690-6145

For questions about Medicare please call 1-800-MEDICARE or visit www.medicare.gov.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
MEDICARE BENEFICIARIES WARNED ABOUT DRUG CARD SCAMS

Overview: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services approved 48 general drug discount cards, including 27 available nationally to all eligible Medicare beneficiaries beginning June 1. With the new cards, Medicare beneficiaries will receive discounts on prescription drugs, and low-income beneficiaries may receive an additional $600 credit to help pay for their prescription medicines in both 2004 and 2005.

The competition between organizations offering cards -- as well as the public display of the prices the cards offer for prescription medicines – is expected to help drive down prices so that seniors get the best savings on their medicines. HHS is offering several tools to help seniors compare and choose the cards providing the best savings when they become available.

But with the announcement of the drug card program, a number of potential drug card scams have arisen in various parts of the U.S. The Department’s Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the Office of Inspector General are warning Medicare beneficiaries and their family members to be cautious when being approached to buy a drug discount card.

Beneficiaries should NEVER share personal information such as their bank account number, social security number or health insurance card number (or Medicare number) with any individual who calls or comes to the door claiming to sell ANY Medicare related product. If fraud is suspected, the beneficiary should call 1-800-MEDICARE, the OIG Fraud Hotline at 1-800-447-8477 or a local law enforcement agency (such as the police). Medicare-approved drug discount card program

All card programs approved by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)will bear the Medicare Rx seal.

Marketing for the Medicare-approved drug discount card program will begin in early May and enrollment in these card programs will begin in May 2004. Card sponsors will advertise their cards on television, radio, newspapers and direct mail. Approved card sponsors will not conduct any cold-calls, therefore, no individual should receive a call from a card sponsor unless they have requested further information from an ad or direct mail piece.

Potential Scams and what to do about them

Although the Medicare-Approved Prescription Drug Discount Card program has not yet been implemented, some Medicare beneficiaries across the country (Alabama, Georgia, Idaho, Maryland, Nebraska, New York, Rhode Island, Virginia) have already received calls as well as in-person solicitations from individuals/companies posing as Medicare officials attempting to gain personal information from beneficiaries with the intent to scam the beneficiaries.

Beneficiaries who are contacted by these false card companies should always remember:

The Medicare-approved discount cards are not currently available. The names of the card sponsors were announced March 25th and the companies will begin to market their cards through commercial advertising and direct mail beginning in April.

A beneficiary should NEVER share personal information such as their bank account number, social security number or health insurance card number (or Medicare number) with any individual who calls or comes to the door claiming to sell ANY Medicare related product.

Medicare is committed to providing information on the approved drug discount cards to help beneficiaries make the selection best fitting their needs. Starting April 29, beneficiaries will be able to compare prices of drugs offered by the drug card programs at www.medicare.gov or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE.

Helping to fight fake cards

In response to these concerns, CMS is:

Coordinating information with customer service representatives at 1-800-MEDICARE, the call centers at the Medicare contractors and the State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs).

Making referrals to the HHS Office of the Inspector General where there is specific enough information to indicate potential fraud.

Continuing to explore methods to limit the scope of these scams and developing a process to work with appropriate law enforcement agencies to end these scams.

Working closely with the Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Office of the Inspector General as well as other agencies that have dealt with issues of prescription drug fraud.

# # #

www1 Privacy & Security | Accessibility | FOIA | Help | Email Updates | CMS Careers
Health and Human Services | Medicare.gov | FirstGov
Equal Employment Opportunity Data Posted Pursuant to the No Fear Act

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
7500 Security Boulevard, Baltimore MD 21244-1850
CMS Telephone Numbers

WD 40 Fan Club

Authored by BlueAngel on
Sunday, May 30, 2004

Here is the May 30th WD 40 Fan Club's newsletter information:

Memorial Day marks the unofficial beginning of summer. Hooray! It’s
time to bring out all your summer toys, such as personal watercraft. WD-40
can help get the vehicles ready for use. Try it to:

-Clean exterior
-Drive moisture from electrical components
-Lubricate hinges on seat and other compartments
-Ease installation of new handgrips
-Prevent rust and corrosion on brass and metal parts
-Lubricate throttle controls
-Remove bug guts from windshields and fiberglass
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Hope you enjoy these little tid bits from the WD 40 folks!
BlueAngel

Vacation Time for SAPSA

Authored by BlueAngel on
Sunday, May 30, 2004

The San Antonio Polio Survivors Association will not be meeting from June through August 2004.

We will resume our meetings on September 14th at !:00 PM - 3:00 PM @ Warm Springs Resourcenter for People with Disabilities, 5101 Medical Drive.

We are attempting to obtain speakers from the Medical, Dental & other Healthcare providers to speak to us in their fields of expertise and as it applies to PPS & other problems we have as we age.

We are trying to obtain speakers from VIA to tell us about their different programs offered to the community; from various city, county, & state agencies that provide different services for the elderly and disabled citizens.

We will attempt to provide you speakers which you, as members, suggest.

Just contact us:
Ethel Taylor: blueangel7131@sbcglobal.net or 210.696.1710
Ruth Moon: Moonfamily3@sbcglobal.net or 210.523.6216
Michael Beard: Michael78247@yahoo.com OR 210.490.3190

Respironics Colorado Announces Discontinuation of Service and Repair Support for Certain Ventilation Equipment

Authored by BlueAngel on
Thursday, May 20, 2004

The following information is being printed from "Ventilator Assisted Living (formerly called IVUN Network News)" Spring 2004, Volume 18 page 10. Reprinted from Post-Polio Health (formerly called Polio Network News) with permission of Post-Polio Health International (www.post-polio.org). Any further reproduction must have permission from copyright holder.

This is being reprinted with the aim of educating anyone who has an interest in the subject. There have been numerous scare tactics out there to frighten people whose very existence is dependent on these devices .

It is hoped that this will help.
Ethel E. Killgore Taylor, ret RN, BS in Nursing '53
San Antonio Polio Survivors' Association

_________________________________________________________________
ISSN 1066-534X. ©Copyright 2004 Post-Polio Health International (PHI). All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without permission in writing from the publisher. Published quarterly in March, June, September, and December. Edited by Judith Raymond Fischer (JFisc48232@aol.com).
_________________________________________________________________

Respironics Colorado Announces Discontinuation of Service and Repair Support for Certain Ventilation Equipment

In the fall of 2003, Respironics Colorado notified affected physicians, caregivers and ventilator clients that, effective March 1, 2004, Respironics (www.respironics.com) could no longer ensure its ability to procure service parts or repair services for certain ventilation equipment. The equipment affected included the iron lung, rocking bed, Bantam, Zephyr blower, PVV, 170C Monaghan, Thompson Portable, Cascade humidifier, IPPB, Gomco 789 Aspirator, Gomco 400 Aspirator and the Huxley.

Tim Murphy, Vice President and Controller of Respironics Colorado indicated, “Respironics Colorado representatives have and will continue to work with its clients, as well as their physicians and their caregivers, in an effort to transition these individuals to other equipment.”

Murphy continued, “From the inception of this project, Respironics Colorado shared the transition plan timeline and approach with the March of Dimes and the International Ventilators User Network. Respironics remains grateful to these organizations for their time, perspective and assistance during this project.

“All of the associates of Respironics Colorado realize the challenge this change poses for our clients and remains committed to working with each of them, their physicians and caregivers to insure an orderly transition,” Murphy concluded.

May 10, 2004

Statement From Respironics Colorado Regarding Ability to Provide On-Going Repair and Maintenance Support to Iron Lung Patients

Respironics Colorado is sympathetic to the difficult decision that our affected patients must make regarding either the continued use of Iron Lung treatment or making a transition to an alternative treatment. The Iron Lung devices being used by these patients were manufactured from the 1940's through the 1960's and the original manufacturer of these devices no longer provides repair parts. Our concern about the continued viability of these devices is supported by the March of Dimes, the original manufacturer and clinicians.

The combination of age and unique make-up of the equipment, and the lack of commercially available parts have left Respironics Colorado in a position where providing continuing repair and service for these devices has become increasingly challenging.

We have been working for nearly one year with our patients, their physicians and caregivers, the March of Dimes, and the original manufacturer of these devices to ensure a smooth and satisfactory transition for all affected patients. Patients have been presented one of three options:

1. Transition to an alternative device as soon as feasible;

2. Continue using the Iron Lung device with the understanding that if the device fails Respironics Colorado may not be able to repair the device; or,

3. Accept donation of the device and pursue other support and repair options.

As a company regulated by the Food and Drug Administration and other quality system certification organizations we have limitations on the suppliers and repair sources we can qualify and accept into our quality system. However, the owner of the device, in this case the patient, may seek such repairs from a non-regulated third party.

In an effort to continue to support these patients as long as possible Respironics Colorado will put all returned Iron Lungs through a comprehensive Quality Assurance check, and providing the device meets standards, it will be held in a rental pool in the event one is needed in an emergency situation by those opting to remain on the Iron Lung. Returned devices, which do not pass the overall QA check, will be held as parts resources. The reality, however, is that this may only provide a limited and unpredictable source of replacement product and repair parts and the best long term resolution for patients may be to transition to an alternative therapy.

Respironics Colorado has great compassion for our patients facing this decision and the concerns and fears of transitioning to an alternative therapy and away from something that's been a part of their life for decades. We will continue to work with these patients, their physicians and their caregivers to help them transition to an alternative therapy.

MAY 10, 2004

Statement from J.H. Emerson Co.

As the original manufacturer of the Iron Lungs still in use by Respironics Colorado clients, J.H. Emerson Co., concurs with Respironics Colorado that the ability of Respironics or Emerson to guarantee on-going maintenance and repair of these devices is not possible.

Emerson has not manufactured Iron Lungs since 1970, and there was limited production during the 1960's. Having not manufactured these devices for over 30 years we are no longer able to produce replacement parts for the them.

We are empathetic to those who currently use the Iron Lung, and who face the challenges associated with transitioning to another device. However, we do agree that new devices and technologies make it possible for these patients to continue the ventilatory support they need.

IVUN Ventilatory Equipment Exchange

IVUN heard from several long-term ventilator users who are clients of Respironics affected by the changes in servicing and parts for their older ventilator equipment. Some of them have used iron lungs and Bantams and Monaghans for decades and were understandably concerned.

IVUN attempted to educate them about more modern, alternative modes of ventilation, to connect them with others who successfully transitioned to newer equipment, and to facilitate an equipment exchange network for those who could not make the transition.

For more on the equipment exchange, connect to “Can You Help?” (www.post-polio.org/netwkg_ivun.html) People who want to donate ventilatory equipment and aids can advertise their offerings on that web page. People who need older equipment can view what is available and make arrangements for the equipment exchange and/or submit their equipment needs. Send your contact information and description of equipment donations or needs to: ventinfo@post-polio.org.

WEATHER AND BREATHING

Authored by BlueAngel on
Sunday, May 16, 2004

Weather and Breathing is an article in the Breathe Easy Newsletter for Rotech Healthcare, Inc. The Newsletter is published quarterly dedicated to providing helpful information to people who have breathing difficulties . Also it is helpful to those who must provide care to such individuals.

"HEALTH (Home Education and Activity Leading To Health) is an educational program we have developed to provide education to home respiratory patients on how to better care for their disease and improve their overall health.

Breathe Easy, HEALTH, and the other patient resource materials provided here are presented by Greg Spratt, BS, RRT, CPFT, Clinical Director for Rotech.

The Rotech family of hometown companies is dedicated to providing our patients with practical and useful information, as part of our mission to help our patients lead more comfortable and productive lives.

If you have specific topics you would like to see discussed in future issues of Breathe Easy, or as a special HEALTH study, please contact us at www.Rotech.com"

Breathe Easy is a quarterly newsletter dedicated to providing helpful information to those with breathing difficulties.
© 2002, Rotech Healthcare Inc Volume 11, Issue 1

Weather and Breathing

Every patient with COPD or other breathing problems knows that the weather can impact how they feel on any given day. I’ve even known those that swore they could predict the weather based upon how they felt. Why does weather impact our breathing? More importantly, can we do anything to counteract it?

Very little information is available on this phenomenon. A Medline search (this is an internet tool that searches all indexed medical journals back to 1966) revealed several articles on weather and asthma, and one article on COPD.

The articles on weather and asthma focused on outbreaks of asthma flare-ups during periods of thunderstorms, especially in the late spring and early summer. These studies, conducted in Australia and Great Britain, did seem to find a correlation between spring storms and increased problems with asthma. Researchers speculate the phenomenon may have two possible causes. The most likely is related to the downdrafts of cold air that occur with these storms. These strong wind currents stir up more grass pollen, which can cause problems for those with allergies to the pollen.

A second theory relates to the weather itself. Researchers found a correlation between the temperature drop that occurs during these storms and asthma flare-ups. Previous research had noted possible association between asthma and rainfall, high humidity, high pressure, high and low temperature, and lightning strikes.

Since there is a shortage of published information on weather and COPD, let’s take a “common sense” approach to the question based upon our knowledge of airflow dynamics, physics, and physiology. One thing is certain; perception of the effects of environment varies greatly from patient to patient. While one patient feels best in a hot, dry environment, another may feel a humid environment is preferable. Though there are some generalizations that can be made, the “perfect breathing conditions” vary from one patient to another.

Temperature

Changes in temperature seem to affect the level of dyspnea (the sensation of shortness of breath). How could temperature have an effect?

Extreme hot or cold conditions stress the entire body. In an effort to maintain a constant body temperature (98.6 degrees Fahrenheit), you expend additional energy to warm or cool your body. This additional energy requirement also increases the amount oxygen your body is using (ie, oxygen is required to create the additional energy). Since you are using more oxygen, this may further deplete your blood oxygen levels and increase your sensation of shortness of breath.

Breathing hot or cold air can also have a drying or irritating effect on the airway causing bronchospasm (contraction of the smooth muscle that surrounds the airway). Bronchospasm decreases the size of the airway and thus makes it more difficult to get the air in and out of the lungs, increasing shortness of breath.

Many patients notice increased wheezing or shortness of breath when going out into cold air. This is especially true in asthmatic patients where “cold air- induced bronchospasm” is well recognized. However, many COPD patients experience a similar response to cold air.

A Finnish study demonstrated that exposure of the body to cold air had a more deleterious effect on breathing than just breathing cold air. Although breathing cold air through a mask while in a warm room did decrease lung function, placing the patient in a cold environment further reduced airflow.

Humidity

High humidity is also a cause of increased complaints of shortness of breath. There are a few possible explanations for this phenomenon.

The amount of humidity in the air (water content) on the oxygen concentration. As water content increases, this reduces the oxygen content (called partial pressure) of oxygen in the air. Thus it would make sense that during humid conditions, less oxygen is available in the air. There is only one problem with this reasoning, the air we breathe is heated and humidified by our upper airway (ie, nose, mouth, throat, windpipe and larger bronchial tubes). By the time the air reaches the air sacs in the lungs (called alveoli), it is 100% saturated with humidity, even when we breathe very dry air. So breathing dry air versus humid air has no effect on the partial pressure of oxygen reaching our lungs.

A second explanation is more likely. As humidity increases, the density of the air increases. More dense air creates more resistance to airflow in the airway resulting in an increased work of breathing (ie, more shortness of breath).

Another possible explanation is that as humidity increases, the prevalence of many known airborne allergens increases. Dust mites and molds both increase in high humidity. My wife never experienced asthma symptoms in her life until we moved into an old house with a damp, moldy basement. She also had difficulty breathing anytime we visited the Climatron (a large, tropical dome with lots of humidity and mold) at our local botanical garden.

Barometric Pressure and Elevation

As barometric pressure drops, less oxygen is available in the air. This is the same principle that causes a decrease in oxygen level as you travel to higher elevations. The total pressure is less and so the oxygen component is less.

When barometric pressure drops, as when a storm front passes, barometric pressure can change 30-40 milimeters of mercury (ie, The units are in mm of mercury [abbreviated mmHg] or “torr” when measuring air pressure). Although the effect on the partial pressure of oxygen that reaches the air sacs in the lungs is small (maybe 5-10 mmHg), a change of just a few points could increase shortness of breath.

Circulating Air

Some patients express relief of their shortness of breath by having air circulating. Many patients will run a fan all of the time. On the other hand, I have talked to patients that did not feel like it helped and some that even said it made them worse. One lady in a pulmonary rehab program had difficulty exercising on an “Air-Dyne” bicycle because it generated too much air movement.

Allergens and Irritants

Other environmental conditions can increase breathing problems. Both indoor and outdoor air pollution have been demonstrated to increase the need for hospitalization in asthma and COPD patients. Although it is difficult to control the air pollution in your area, (unless you decide to move), it is possible to improve air quality inside your home.

Common sources of allergens inside the home include pets (usually fur bearing), molds, dust, and cockroaches. Irritants may include smoke, sprays, perfumes, cleaning chemicals, or anything else that produces a smell, fume, or mist. With today’s home construction resulting in homes with less air circulation (eg, drafts), indoor air pollution is a growing concern. Some speculate it is partially responsible for the increase in asthma and COPD cases.

What Can I Do?

Although it is not possible to control your weather conditions, you can still take steps to control your environment. Here are some tips that may be helpful.

1. Although you should be doing so already, be even more committed to using all medications and oxygen exactly as ordered by your doctor.

2. During very hot or cold weather, arrange your schedule to go out during times with more moderate temperatures. In the summer, try to do your outdoor activity during the early morning or late evening hours when the conditions are more tolerable. In the winter, try afternoon when it’s warmer.

3. Use an air conditioner to control indoor temperature. A second benefit of the air conditioner is that it removes a great deal of humidity from the air as it cools it. If an air conditioner is not available, use fans and open windows to circulate the air during hot days. Special programs are available in many communities to offset the cost of fans, air conditioners, and even the cost of electricity for the elderly or those with health problems. Check with your area agencies for the elderly for resources in your area.

4. When going outside during the winter, wear clothing (eg, scarf) over the nose and mouth to trap warm air and prevent inhaling cold-air. Cold-air masks are available to cover the nose and mouth. Breathing through your nose is more effective than your mouth in warming the air before it reaches your airways.

5. Many people go as far as to travel to more favorable climates during periods of difficult weather. If you are considering moving, try going to the new area for an extended period before making a permanent move. Many people have been disappointed after moving when improvements in breathing don’t occur and now they are away from their friends and family.

6. When possible, decrease allergens/irritants by removing items from your home that produce them.

7. Air filters are available to filter air and they are effective in removing airborne allergens although their role in improving breathing for patients is questionable. The most effective types are those that use a HEPA filter and that have a high air filtration rate.

Why Am I Using Oxygen?

Authored by BlueAngel on
Sunday, May 16, 2004

The closing of this article succinctly states the reason for the use of Oxygen Therapy for the individual Patient/Client.

STUDIES SHOW THAT USING OXYGEN AS PRESCRIBED WILL RESULT IN LONGER LIFE AND INCREASED QUALITY OF LIFE.

WHY AM I USING OXYGEN?

Why am I using oxygen? This is a question that everyone using oxygen has, but very few probably ever get a satisfactory answer. In order to answer that question let's break it down into simpler terms.

What is oxygen? Oxygen is a part of the air that we breathe into our lungs every time we take a breath. Our body uses the oxygen to create the energy it needs to carry on all of the processes essential to living such as walking, thinking, breathing, and laughing. Without oxygen the body would shut down in less than 10 minutes.

Why do I need extra oxygen? Due to some heart and lung conditions, not enough oxygen is able to get into the blood to supply the body with the oxygen it needs. Once your condition has been stabilized, the only way to correct a low oxygen level is to use supplemental oxygen.

Won’t I become addicted to it? This is a common myth that many people using oxygen have heard, sometimes even from a medical professional. The air we breathe is 21% oxygen. Most people using oxygen are only receiving a little higher percentage (about 28% at 2 l/m), just enough to bring your blood oxygen back to an adequate level. There is no clinical evidence that using oxygen is physically addicting or that using oxygen on a part-time basis will lead to full-time use. If anything, using the oxygen will help to stabilize your condition which may prevent increased use later.

How do you know I need the oxygen? Your blood has been tested and shown to be low on oxygen. This has been done in one of two ways. You may have had a sample of blood taken from your artery known as an arterial blood gas (ABG), or you may have been tested with a small probe on your finger or ear, called oximetry. Your oxygen may be measured at rest, during activity, or during sleep. If your level is low during any of these times, you should be using your oxygen at those times.

Can’t I tell if my oxygen is low? Not necessarily, some of the symptoms of low oxygen can be shortness of breath, fast heart rate, changes in the color of lips and fingernails, but some people will have low oxygen level without experiencing any of these symptoms. Others may experience these symptoms without being low on oxygen. The only way to tell for sure is the testing mentioned above. Medical Corp.

What are the benefits of using the oxygen? Multiple studies have shown that using oxygen as prescribed leads to a longer life and improved quality of life. Some people feel dramatically different after they start using the oxygen. Less shortness of breath, increased stamina, better tolerance of activity, more restful sleep, improved memory, and clearer thinking are some of the immediate improvements experienced. Others may see little or no change in the way they feel. But whether you feel differently or not, using the oxygen is necessary and will result in the long-term benefits.

When should I use it? Oxygen is not stored well by the body. In fact, once you quit using it, your blood levels will return to previous levels within minutes. For this reason, it is essential for you to use the oxygen at the times your oxygen level has been shown to be low. If you are low during activity you should wear it during activity. If you are low during sleep, wear it while you sleep. If you are low at rest, you should wear your oxygen continuously.

What if I don't use it? Not using the oxygen as your doctor has prescribed will result in your blood oxygen level remaining low. This causes your entire body to be stressed, especially your heart. A low oxygen level increases the pressure inside your heart and with time can cause your heart to enlarge and work less efficiently, a condition known as cor pulmonale. As stated above, studies have shown that patients not using their oxygen do not live as long and have a decreased quality of life.

Will I ever be able to quit using it? Some people with a reversible condition such as pneumonia will get better and no longer need to use oxygen. Conditions such as congestive heart failure, emphysema, and chronic bronchitis are primarily irreversible and long-term use is often necessary. Oxygen should never be discontinued without testing showing that your blood oxygen level is adequate at rest, during sleep, and during activity.

A0n important part of adapting to the use of oxygen is keeping a positive attitude. Don't dwell on the negative aspects but look at all the benefits mentioned above. It can help to increase your activity and improve your quality of life. In many ways it’s like getting your first pair of glasses. Sure they feel funny and make you look different, but now you can see to read and drive. If you have any more questions, always feel free to contact us and we will be happy to discuss it with you.

STUDIES SHOW THAT USING OXYGEN AS PRESCRIBED WILL RESULT IN LONGER LIFE AND INCREASED QUALITY OF LIFE.

© 1998, Greg Spratt RRT, Rotech Medical Corp. Revised 10/98

WHY DO I NEED TESTING?

Authored by BlueAngel on
Saturday, May 15, 2004

Why Do I need Testing? is an article describing why one should have testing to be certain that you are no longer in need of supplemental or continuous Oxygen therapy. This article is very succinct and to the point. We do thank the RT's at Rotech for their educational material that is made available to the general public.

WHY DO I NEED TESTING?

The Importance of Testing Before Discontinuing Oxygen

People often question their need for continuing to use oxygen. When considering discontinuance of your oxygen, it is extremely important to perform appropriate testing to determine the best thing for your condition. Just as a physician would never discontinue a diabetic’s insulin without first checking blood sugar levels or high blood pressure medicine without first checking blood pressure, oxygen should never be discontinued without first checking your blood oxygen levels.

“I don't feel like I need it.”

Just as with high blood pressure, you can’t always go by the way that you feel. Some people may experience few or no symptoms such as shortness of breath and still have a low blood oxygen level. Even though these symptoms are very important to watch and consider, you can’t make the decision to discontinue the oxygen based solely upon symptoms. The only way to know for sure is to have your blood oxygen level checked.

“How do you check my blood oxygen level?”

There are two ways your blood oxygen level can be checked. The first way, known as an arterial blood gas or ABG is by taking a sample of blood from your artery. The downside of this test (besides the pain from the needle) is that it only shows your blood oxygen level at the moment the blood is drawn. Most people with heart and lung disorders have a blood oxygen level that will vary depending upon what they are doing. So an ABG may show an adequate blood oxygen level while you are resting (which is usually when it is measured) but does not reveal what your oxygen level is when you are active or sleeping (which is usually when your level is low).

The second method, called oximetry, is done by placing a small probe on your finger. This probe is attached to a small device that records a continuous measurement of your blood oxygen level. The advantage of this method (besides being painless) is that it allows your physician to see exactly what your blood oxygen level is doing at all times such as when you are active. In fact, to get the full picture, you should be tested at rest, during activity, and during sleep as blood levels may vary significantly at these various times. If this test is normal, then your physician will probably discontinue the oxygen, but it is a good idea to repeat oximetry in one month to make sure it is staying OK (Sometimes your oxygen level drops after being off for a while). It is very important that your oxygen never be discontinued without first performing this test.

If your blood oxygen level is low, failure to use the oxygen as prescribed can result in stress to the heart and has been shown to result in shorter life expectancy.

“What happens if I just quit using the oxygen?”

If your blood oxygen level is still low and you don’t use your oxygen, studies have shown that life expectancy is shortened and quality of life is diminished when compared to those who use the oxygen appropriately. Symptoms such as shortness of breath may increase and your activity tolerance may decrease.

A low oxygen level stresses your entire body but especially the heart. The pressures inside the heart increase, and with time the heart may enlarge causing it to function poorly, a condition known as cor pulmonale. Other organs including the kidneys, brain, and muscles are affected as well. So going without the oxygen means more than just putting up with the shortness of breath, it can affect your entire body.

“If my doctor does not discontinue it, can’t I just have you pick it up?”

Your oxygen was prescribed for you by your physician and thus for us to discontinue its use requires your physician's approval. The only other option is for you to sign a release of liability. This releases us and your physician of responsibility for any consequences of your decision to go against your doctor's wishes by not using the oxygen.

“How can I be tested?”

We will contact the doctor for you. Upon the doctor’s approval, arrangements will be made to perform the test. The transition to using oxygen can sometimes be difficult. If you have encountered problems in using your oxygen, speak with your respiratory therapist and he or she can offer solutions to most of these concerns. We want the best for you and your situation. If we can be of any further assistance in answering your questions, always feel free to call us.

© 1998, Greg Spratt RRT, Rotech Medical Corp. Revised 7/98

TAKE DOWN THE SWELLING TO BREATHE EASY

Authored by BlueAngel on
Saturday, May 15, 2004

Breathe Easy Breathe Easy Breathe Easy is a quarterly newsletter dedicated to providing helpful information to those with breathing difficulties. © 2002, Rotech Healthcare Inc Volume 11, Issue 2.

This newsletter is published in an effort to help educate people with respiratory problems as well as their care givers and the general public. We have found it is an useful tool to help understand the different processes required to breathe as well as the medications used to achieve this goal.

Take Down The Swelling to Breathe Easy

When people hear the term “steroids” there is often a negative response. “Steroids, I don’t want to take those. Don’t they have all kinds of nasty side effects?” The truth is that when used properly, steroids can play an important role in controlling asthma and COPD without major side effects.

Steroids are produced naturally by the body. Many different types of steroids are produced by the adrenal gland (a gland that lies on top of each kidney). Steroids produced by the adrenal gland (called corticosteroids) include:

- Aldosterone, which helps to control the balance of fluid and minerals in the body;
- Cortisol, which controls energy production and the body’s response to stress
- Sex Hormones such as estrogen and testosterone

The steroid medications used for treating respiratory problems are most closely related to cortisol and fall into a class of steroids referred to as the glucocorticoids. These medications can bring several benefits including:

Benefits of Steroid Medications

In both asthma and COPD, inflammation (swelling) in the airways plays a major role in difficult breathing. When the airways are exposed to an irritant (eg, tobacco smoke) or something you are allergic to (eg, animal dander), they become red and swollen.
The swelling causes the air passages to become smaller, making it more difficult to get air in and out of the lungs. Steroids help to reduce and control swelling in the airways, making breathing easier.
Steroids also help by making the airways more responsive to medications that open the airways such as albuterol and decreasing the amount of fluid in lung tissue. They may also make the airways less prone to bronchospasms (muscle around the airway contracting and constricting the airway).

Steroids in Asthma and COPD

Inhaled steroids are the frontline treatment for any patient with persistent asthma. Studies have shown many clinical benefits in asthma including reduced symptoms (eg, wheezing, cough, etc.), A swollen airway has a smaller passage for airflow making it more difficult to breathe. A normal airway has an open passage for airflow. improved airflow, reduction in airway sensitivity and prevention of exacerbations (episodes of worsening that require extra treatment, hospitalization or an ER visit). Steroids may also prevent permanent changes to the airway that can occur when asthma is poorly controlled.

Although not all COPD patients benefit from steroids, some do. The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or GOLD, sponsored by the National Institute of Health and World Health Organization, released standards for the management of COPD in 2001. These standards suggest that inhaled steroids should be used in COPD for patients that continue to have symptoms on bronchodilators (eg, albuterol, ipratropium). They recommend a 6-week to 3-month trial of inhaled steroids with spirometry testing before and after the trial to determine if an improvement in lung function is noted.

GOLD also recommends use in patients with moderate to severe COPD that have frequent episodes of worsening requiring extra treatment such as antibiotics or steroid pills or shots.

Benefits noted by some of the clinical studies include improved air movement, decreased symptoms (shortness of breath, cough, etc.), fewer exacerbations (episodes of worsening that require extra treatment, hospitalization or an ER visit), increased walking distance, and reduced risk of mortality (ie, death).

Steroids can be delivered in several ways but the two most common ways are by pill or by inhaling continued from page 1 the medication. When taken by pill, a relatively large dosage is required for enough of the medication to reach the lungs and have the desired effect. Dosages of 10 - 20 mg per day or more are commonly used. Taking the larger dosage is what leads to many of the more serious side effects associated with steroids such as osteoporosis, diabetes, slow wound healing, and facial swelling.

When taken by inhalation, because the medication is being inhaled directly into the airways, the dosage required is much less, generally less than 1 mg or about 1/20th of the dosage taken by pill. Because the dosage is much less, the chance of any serious side effects is reduced dramatically. Although uncommon, the most common side effects of inhaled steroids include sore throat, hoarseness, and an increased risk of a yeast infection in the mouth, which can be reduced by rinsing the mouth out after inhaling the medicine.

The most common types of inhaled steroids are listed BELOW Steroids can be taken by inhaler or nebulizer. If you are already taking other medications by nebulizer, it may be possible to include the steroid in your normal nebulizer treatment. If you are taking multiple inhalers, it may be possible to combine all inhaled medications into one convenient nebulizer treatment.

Most insurance carriers, including Medicare, provide coverage for nebulizer medications when medical necessity requirements are met. If you would like more information, please talk with your physician or feel free to call us for details.

COMMON STEROID INHALERS

Beclomethasone
- Vanceril, (R),
- Beclovent(R),
- QVAAR(R)

Budesonide -
- Pulmicort Turbohaler(R),
- Pulmicort Respiles (R)

Flunisolide
- Aerobid (R)

Fluticasone
- Flovent(R)
- Advair(R)

Triamcinolone
- Azmacort(R)

Why Clean My Equipment?

With every piece of equipment, it is very important to clean and maintain it to achieve the optimal results. Always follow the guidelines provided to you when you received the equipment. If you are unsure of what cleaning and maintenance you should be doing, contact us and we’ll be happy to provide you with instructions.

Proper cleaning and maintenance has many benefits.

1. Equipment containing moisture is always a potential area for germs (bacteria, viruses, etc.) to grow. This risk is increased when we breathe or cough into the equipment as germs can be introduced. Regular disinfection of nebulizers, humidifiers, tubing, masks, and other equipment reduces the risk of contamination that could lead to infections.

2. Normal cleaning also keeps the equipment functioning correctly. During normal use, nebulizers, humidifiers, and other equipment may become clogged with salt or other sediments preventing proper function. Failure to clean filters on compressors, concentrators, and CPAP units may cause them wear out faster and malfunction. Cleaning helps keep everything in good working order.

3. Even with proper cleaning, some materials (masks, tubing, cannulas, nebulizers) can break down with normal use, resulting in equipment that may not function properly. Change all disposable equipment (nebs, tubing, masks) as recommended to ensure proper operation.

Proper cleaning and maintenance is a big step toward keeping oyour equipment functioning properly and helping yourself to Breathe Easy.

WD 40 Fan Club

Authored by BlueAngel on
Saturday, May 15, 2004

This is the weekly fan club newsletter describing various uses of the product WD 40 for the week of May 9, 2004.

Date: Sun, 09 May 2004
From: fanclub1@wd40.com
Subject: WD-40 e-Tip of the Week

It’s Mother’s Day! Make mom feel like a million bucks and be sure her
Sunday is special. WD-40 can help along the way. Try it to:

-Stop squeaks on hammocks
-Remove leftover adhesive from price tags on new gifts
-Drive moisture from engine components after washing mom’s car
-Clean, shine and protect garden tools
-Polish candleholders and vases
-Remove rust and prevent corrosion on patio furniture before a barbecue

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
This email is sent only to subscribers.

Please do not reply back directly to this email. Comments or questions?
Please use the "Feedback" form in the Fan Club
(http://fanclub.wd40.com/).

Want to unsubscribe from e-Tip of the Week? Please visit
http://fanclub.wd40.com/, go to the "My Profile" page and opt-out.

Perspective: (or Role Reversal from Nurse to Patient)

Authored by BlueAngel on
Saturday, May 15, 2004

This column was written by the author of this site several years ago. The thought behind the article was attempting to show how little most professionals know about teaching others how to use certain types of mobility aids to others, particularly when they don't know how to operate the equipment correctly for themselves.

Little did I realize that the very act of retirement would thrust me into a role reversal so quickly. For years I had been trying to obtain a post polio syndrome work up which finally happened (diagnosis of post-polio myopathy with sensory polyneuropathies of the lower extremities). I had polio as a child of five in Manila, Luzon, Philippine Islands. The polio affected mostly the lower extremities with the right leg being predominately affected. The right leg is shorter and smaller than the left leg. The only time this was perceptible in walking was when I was extremely tired I would have a slight limp. As the years went by, the ability to climb or step up on curbs would diminish as did the climbing of steps without some type of assistance. Then I noticed that I could not stand up to cook and wash dishes without low back pain. I could no longer reach for dishes or cooking materials over my head without my arms feeling like leaden weights. My arms also became extremely tired with the simple act of combing my hair or brushing my teeth. With the advent of these symptoms, I compensated by getting a step kitchen chair that I could sit on while I cooked and washed dishes or used the steps to climb to get things off of the top shelves (albeit with care to prevent a fall). I also compensated by taking my time to do things and listening to my body. I also had a history of falling in my youth and middle age which fortunately has not been frequent in the so called “golden years”.

I finally got my neurology work-up which included EMG, nerve conduction studies as well as pertinent blood work. The doctor prescribed a four prong cane to help stabilize climbing curbs and stairs as well as maintaining balance. This worked for a while until the respiratory problems became pronounced. I could only walk for a short distance until I became very short of breath and the right quadriceps muscle began to sting and burn. The neurologist suggested the use of a wheelchair or a motorized scooter. Medicare nor the HMO would not approve the motorized scooter due to the fact that I would not use the motorized scooter in the house and that it would be a matter of convenience not one of necessity for mobility in the house. This decision was rather disturbing to me since I was under the misapprehension that the HMO was into the maintaining independence of the individual. I have found this all very interesting, enlightening and frustrating. I can now understand better what my patients in the past felt regarding the bureaucratic nonsense and red tape that really did not help that much.

The main thrust of this article is that no-one ever taught me either as a nurse or now as a patient how to use the wheel chair properly. People seem to assume that because you are a nurse that you automatically know the correct and proper methods of using the wheelchair. You know what assuming something makes out of you and me. Never did I realize how hard it could be to accomplish what appears to be a simple task like wheeling yourself in a wheelchair! It is a very tiring job particularly when you have unknown diminished upper body strength. (You are really “sore” after the first attempts.)

Is there a proper way to place your hands on the wheels to propel you? How do you position your hands on the wheels to turn the wheelchair in the direction you want to go? What are the proper mechanics of propelling the wheelchair? How far back on the wheel do you place your hands in order to propel the wheelchair? What is the proper method of propelling the wheelchair using both your hands and feet? What is the proper method of using just your feet to propel the wheelchair if you can not use your hands and arms for any reason? These are but a few of the questions that have come cascading into my mind. It is very daunting! I can now imagine how patients felt when they were placed in this circumstance.

You quickly learn to ask questions of other wheelchair bound people. You also learn how to ask for help in getting your wheelchair placed into the trunk of your car when you are physically unable to lift the chair. All of these things can be very depressing if you allow them to be. It is very difficult for someone who is not use to asking for assistance to ask for it. It takes a lot of “guts” to do something so foreign to you, your self-image and self-esteem. I am beginning to accept the idea that the wheelchair can, indeed, be a friend. It can be a vehicle that allows me greater independence to go outside the house and do more things. The main problem now is to get my children to accept the frailty of their mother that she can no longer do the things she use to without some help.

I could ramble on and on about the role reversal but it would get very tiresome for you. The main thing I am trying to say is that you should be aware that if your patient happens to be a health care professional (i.e. Nurse) don’t automatically assume they know and understand how to use routine equipment or how to do things that all of us take for granted. They need as much help as routine patients do. When you become a patient you automatically become somewhat of a blithering idiot and seemingly have forgotten all you ever knew about the health care field!

Thankyou for listening!!!!

Repectfully submitted by Ethel E. Killgore Taylor, RN, BSN

15 May 2004: I wrote this article for the now defunct Medical Gazette in the begining of 1990. I thought that it might be usueful now to bring attention to the same issue. This is the fact that quite a few of us do have role reversals whether it is from a healthcare professional to someone in other fields of endeavor. The aging process does bring these events to the fore.

I know that I can no longer walk except around the house in limited amounts of time. I use a rollator to elevate me enough to cook, wash dishes and sometimes sweep up the kitchen with limited success. I do have to use a power chair for mobility most of the time both insiude and outside.

The main purpose for all of this is to encourage you to maintain as much independence as you can for as long as you can. You feel much more as ease and comfortable when you do. This is documented by other Post Polio Survivors.

Ethel E. Taylor, ret. RN, BSN aka "Blueangel"

Eldercare Matters Newsletter May 15th, 2004

Authored by BlueAngel on
Saturday, May 15, 2004

The newsletter is for all elder caregivers. It is sent twice a month and only by request. Please feel free to pass on Eldercare Matters to those in your network

Which of Your Neighbor's Drugs Did You Take Today? <

A couple of weeks ago your neighbors, John and Mary,
cleaned out their cabinets, closets and drawers. They followed
instructions and flushed all their old prescriptions down the
commode.

Those medications made their way through the sewer system
to the local waste water disposal plant. There, the antibiotics
that John never finished (shame on him) dissolved nicely and
mixed with the antibiotics flushed by everyone else in town.
These antibiotics, prescribed to kill bacteria, continued to do
their killing job on the beneficial bacteria in the system
responsible for breaking down waste.

They then drifted through the system until they were discharged
back into the environment and, eventually, into your glass of
water.

One of Mary's medications contained a mercury compound.
The treatment plant wasn't designed to remove this kind of
heavy metal from water, so mercury traveled into the natural
food chain when the plant released its treated water. The fish you
ate last night had a trace of Mary's medicine. So will the chicken
you're cooking tonight.

How to get rid of medications is becoming a real issue for us
consumers. Waste water treatment plants aren't designed to
capture many medications, so they can pass through the system
intact - ending up right back in the clean water we use every
day. Or, like mercury, they can be converted to organic
toxins that eventually end up in food sources. Not good.

The alternative of putting medications in the garbage isn't
palatable for most of us, either. It's too easy for children or
animals to get hold of something they shouldn't.

So, what's a person to do?

I've done some fairly extensive research on this nagging
question, and here is a summary of what several experts
recommend at the moment:

1. Many municipalities have a Household Hazardous Waste
collection program. If your town or city has one, double-
bag and store your old, outdated medications safely out of
the reach of children until you can deliver them to your
collection point and they can be properly disposed of.

2. Many of the larger pharmacy chains have started disposal
programs. Check with your pharmacist.

3. If neither of these options is available to you, the preferred
option still seems to be using the landfill, where medications
will have less opportunity to move directly and immediately
into our water systems.

In order to minimize the risk that an animal or person
might access medicines in the trash, there are a few extra
steps you can take:

> Keep everything in its original container. The label may
have safety information, and the container is probably water-
tight and "childproof."

> Add a little water to solid drugs and recap. Add a little
flour, sawdust, or kitty litter to liquids before recapping.
This will discourage sampling.

> Double-wrap the drugs in a bag or other waste container
so they can't be identified as drugs and to keep glass
from breaking.

-----------------------<<< >>>------------------------

The following is a true story. The aide in question says she'll
never again give care in a house where the pets aren't either
in a birdcage or in a fishbowl.

> Man's Best Friend <

"You'll never have to worry about the dog," Marjorie told the
home care agency. Before you come on Tuesdays and
Fridays I'll put him in the back yard. He's been a great
comfort for my husband, and he's trained to protect us. He
wouldn't allow a stranger in here, so we never worry about
our safety."

Marjorie, age 78, had finally agreed to have some
professional help taking care of her husband, Dick, who
couldn't get out of his chair without help. Harvey, age 6 -
large, black and over 100 lbs., was the third member of the
family. Harvey was devoted to both Marjorie and Dick, and
he was especially protective of Marjorie. He really didn't care
much for strangers. After he growled at their manager, the
agency agreed to send an aide twice a week only if Harvey was
safely locked outside.

Things went well for quite some time. One day, however,
when the aide arrived, Marjorie didn't answer the door.
And it was obvious that Harvey, right on the other side
of the door, wasn't interested in having visitors.

The aide retreated to her car and called the house from her
cell phone. No answer.

Being an enterprising person, she then went around and tried
to look inside through the windows. Harvey followed, window
to window, barking and snarling.

When she came to the den, she could see the back of Dick's
head as he sat in his chair. She couldn't see Marjorie.

Another call to the phone in the house with the same result -
nothing.

She called her agency. They told her to stay put, and they
would call 911, as something appeared to be seriously wrong.

Minutes later, emergency personnel arrived and tried the door.
By this time, Harvey sounded completely out of control.

The police, no more interested in being attacked by a dog than
the aide was, split up. One went around to a back window,
while the second stayed at the front door and knocked loudly.
This kept the dog at the door, while the second officer broke
the back window. At the sound of breaking glass, Harvey
charged the second officer, who was forced to shoot him.

They found Marjorie near the front door where she had fallen,
and where Harvey had been protecting her with every ounce
of his being, just as he had been trained to do.

She's recovering from the stroke that kept her from calling out,
but she'll probably never recover from the trauma of what
happened to Harvey, and what could have happened to the aide,
that day.

The benefits of having a pet have been proven in study after
study. Lower blood pressure, increased well-being,
unconditional love...animals can and do give all of these things
to their people.

But a dog, especially, can present challenges if something
happens to a family member and strangers need to get into the
house. If you or your elder have an animal who isn't socialized
to allow strangers into the house, this could present a real
danger for emergency personnel...or neighbors...who are
trying to help.

Assess the potential for danger from animals now, before there
is a problem that could endanger helpers, or the animal. If you
have concerns, have the animal assessed by a professional.
Perhaps a good training school can intervene.

Then again, perhaps it's time to find a new home for the dog
now, before it's too late.

-----------------------<<< >>>------------------------

Speaking of pets, do you have contingency plans for your pets
in case of emergency? If you should fall down a manhole, get
hit by a bus, or otherwise be out of commission, does anyone
know you have pets? Will they starve to death, or simply poop
all over, before someone comes to see about them?

How about your elder's pets?

All pet owners should at least have a wallet card and something
posted prominently at home with the names of pets, their
descriptions, their usual locations (where do they hide?), the
name of their veterinarian, a list of any medications they are
taking, and who to contact about them in an emergency. The contact
person should be acquainted with your pets, and be willing to
step in if needed (does he or she have a key?).

-----------------------<<< >>>------------------------

"Aging seems to be the only available way to live a long life."

- Daniel Francois Esprit Auber -

-----------------------<<< >>>------------------------

That's it for this time. Remember, there's no such thing as a
dumb question or a silly question. If you have a question,
guaranteed a whole bunch of other people have the same
question. Email me your questions and I'll do my best to
answer. I'll post the answers here to questions I think a
lot of Eldercare Matters readers would be interested in
(without any identifying information, of course).

'Till next time,
Molly

-----------------------<<< >>>------------------------

Molly Shomer
Head Coach
The Eldercare Team
http://www.eldercareteam.com
mshomer@eldercareteam.com
Box 700291
Dallas, TX 75370
(972) 395-7823

-----------------------<<< >>>------------------------

© 2004 Molly Shomer, All rights reserved. You are free to
use material from Eldercare Matters as long as you include
complete attribution, including live web site link and email
link. I would appreciate it if you would let me know where
the material will appear.

To subscribe, send a blank email to
eldermatters@aweber.com

You are receiving this email newsletter because you
asked to receive it. If you've changed your mind, or
if you want to leave us for any reason at all, you can
remove your name here

To unsubscribe or change subscriber options visit:
http://www.aweber.com/z/r/?TAyMjCxstMysHKxMjAwc

ANNOUNCEMENT: SAPSA Meeting Hours Change

Authored by BlueAngel on
Tuesday, May 04, 2004

An announcement and other information is being presented to this format in the expectation it will reach more members and other interested people or groups.

SAN ANTONIO POLIO SURVIVORS ASSOCIATION
%Warm Springs Rehabilitation Foundation Inc.
Warm Springs Resource Center for People with Disabilities
5101 Medical Drive
San Antonio, Texas 78229-4801

Date: 1 May 2004

Subject: Current Information

Our Meeting hours have been changed to 1:00 PM ---- 3:00 PM on the 2nd Tuesday of Each Month at the Resourcenter for People with Disabilities in Room 132.

The reason for the time change of the meeting is due to the transportation service request. They would appreciate our cooperation to have most of the vehicles be back no later than 4:30 PM. They have the services of Presa Community Center buses & drivers to supplement their own transportation vehicles and drivers. Warm Springs does provide transportation services to several of our members on a regular basis.

The fees are generally $5.00 each way. Talk to either Christiana Rodgers or Donna Teall for information on an application for transportation fees based on financial need. Call 210.595.9200 to talk with either of them about it.

The next meeting is scheduled for May 11, 2004 --- This will be the last meeting until September 8, 2004. Our speakers will be:

1. Luis Napoles of Johnson & Johnson. He will demonstrate the new Iglide wheelchair; show material on the Ibot chairs that can go up and down stairs & answer any questions you might have about this new type of wheel chair. He will speak at !:00 PM for about 20 minutes then will answer any questions you may have.

2. Oscar Garcia of the Social Security Administration Medicare Office here in San Antonio will be speaking to us at 2:00 PM about the new prescription medicine discount drug cards, etc. which are going into effect this year The Medicare beneficiaries receiving care will be most interested how this will be handled.

At our April meeting, we had a questionnaire to be filled in by the members. The subject was mainly what direction we want the Association to go. We will appreciate receiving those filled questionnaires at your convenience. For those that were not there we are sending the questionnaire for you to fill out and send back to us.

The Newsletter has not been written for a while. I finally brought one to Donna & Christiana for printing and mailing covering the months from November through March. Hopefully you will get a copy soon!

We have a “Blog” web site ( a type of interactive web site) which was donated to the San Antonio Polio Survivors Association from Munuviana of Australia. It was donated to us in December 2003. I am still learning how to navigate the site. It is still a work in progress.

The web site address is: http://sapsa.mu.nu/ . I hope that you find the site of interest.

If there are any articles or areas of interest which you would like to see posted, please get in contact with me.

We will soon have links with Warm Springs Resource Center and the Texas Polio Survivors Association.

Contacts you can reach for information about San Antonio Polio Survivors Association are:

Christiana Rodgers: 210.595.9200 or Crodgers@wssahosp.org

Ethel Taylor: 210.696.1710 or blueangel@sbcglobal.net (please note the change from Juno to sbcglobal)

Ruth Moon: 210.523.6216 or Moonfamily3@sbcglobsl.net

Michael Beard: 210490-3190 or Michael78247@yahoo.com

Hope to see you at our next meeting!!!

Ethel E. Killgore Taylor

Survey of Membership

Check whichever suggestion or question you might want to contribute your energies to make the Association more meaningful to you, please! Any not listed or any comments please write on back of this sheet.

Suggestions to make our Association to grow.

1. Contact different community groups

□ Seniors Groups & other community service groups (Lion’s Clubs, Rotary clubs, etc & tell them ,” We are trying to get information out about Post Polio Syndrome--can you help us?”)
□ Tell our personal health care providers and ask for their help in getting the information out . You might want to hand them, a copy of “What internist should knowabout Post-Polio Syndrome” by Dr. Julie K. Silver
□ Neighborhood Papers
□ Directors of Nursing Education at the various schools of nursing, hospitals, clinics by phone, fax, e-mails , snail’s mail.
□ Radio & TV outlets about getting our information out via Public Service Announcements
□ Any suggestions you might want to make

2. Creating more interest in our meetings and Association do you want to

□ share experiences
□ discuss problems
□ ask questions
□ continue meetings on the 2nd Tuesday of each month
□ once a quarter have a “social” on a Saturday like brown bagging the meeting at the Resourcenter or going out some place mutually decided by the group
□ Meeting times would be better from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

3. What do you as our members want & how could you be better supported by the other members, the leadership or the Resourcenter ?

□ Social activities
□ Financial affairs
□ Family affairs
□ Emotional needs
□ Would you like a member to contact you periodically by phone just to talk?
□ If the answer to the above is yes how often?
□ Transportation Services information
□ Travel -- day trips? Possibly an overnighter?

Since we do not have or collect dues, two of us have defrayed the cost of the meeting notification cards and the newsletters. We have appreciated the contributions made at some of the meetings to help defray some of that cost as well as the refreshments the first year or so we were meeting. The cost of paper, cards, ink, & printing are becoming more expensive & we are both on fixed incomes. We would like to suggest a donation to the association of $10.00/year on a voluntary basis if you want to continue receiving the Newsletters and the Notification Cards. Naturally if no one could afford that amount yearly, possibly you could donate $5.00 every 6 months.

We would also like to have your current addresses, phone numbers, e-mail addresses to update the membership rolls which we are trying to do at the present time.

Forrest Gump and Saint Peter

Authored by BlueAngel on
Tuesday, May 04, 2004

Forrest Gump and Saint Peter is an e-mail sent to me by one on my friends in the San Antonio Post Polio Survisors Assocaitaion . Thought that all might enjoy this as I have. It does cause one to pause and think a little about the different perspectives we all have on life and things in general.

This is one of the cutest e-mails I've seen in a long time!
Enjoy...


The day finally arrived: Forrest Gump dies and goes to Heaven. He is at
thePearly Gates, met by St. Peter himself. However, the gates are closed
andForrest approaches the Gatekeeper.

St. Peter says, "Well, Forrest, it'scertainly good to see you. We have heard a lot about you. I must tellyou, though, that the place is filling up fast, and we've been administeringanentrance examination for everyone. The test is short, but you have passitbefore you can get into Heaven."

Forrest responds, "It shor is good to be here St. Peter, sir. But
nobody ever tolt me about any entrance exam. Shor hope the test ain't too
hard,life was a big enough test as it was." St. Peter goes on, "Yes, I know,
Forrest, but the test is only three questions.

First: What two days of the week begin with the letter T? Second: How
many seconds are there in a year? Third: What is God's first name?" Forrest
leaves to think the questions over.

He returns the next day and sees St. Peter who waves him up and says,
"Now that you have had a chance to think the questions over, tell me your
answers."

Forrest says, "Well, the first one -- which two days in the
week begin with the letter "T"? Shucks, that one's easy. That'd be Today and
Tomorrow."

The Saint's eyes open wide and he exclaims, "Forrest, that's
notwhat I was thinking, but you do have a point, and I guess I didn't
specify,so I'll give you credit for that answer.

How about the next one?" asks St. Peter. "How many seconds in a year?"

"Now that one's harder," says Forrest, "but I thunk and thunk about that and
Iguess the only answer can be twelve."

Astounded, St. Peter says, "Twelve?Twelve!? Forrest, how in Heaven's name could you come up with twelve seconds in a year?"

Forrest says "Shucks, there's gotta be twelve: January
2nd,
February 2nd, March 2nd. . ."

"Hold it, " interrupts St. Peter. "I see where you're going with this, and I see your point, though that wasn't quite what I had in mind.....but I'll have to give you credit for that one, too. Let's go on with the third and final question. Can you tell me God's first name"?

"Sure" Forrest replied, "its Andy."

"Andy?!" exclaimed an exasperated and
frustrated St. Peter. "Ok, I can understand how you came up with your answers to my first two questions, but just how in the world did you
come up with the name Andy as the first name of God?"

"Shucks, that was the easiestone of all," Forrest replied. "I learnt it from the song. . . . "ANDY WALKS WITH ME, ANDY TALKS WITH ME, ANDY TELLS ME I AM HIS OWN. . . ."

St. Peter opened the Pearly Gates and said: "Run Forrest, run."

Give me a sense of humor, Lord. Give me the grace to see a joke, to
get some humor out of life, and pass it on to other folk.

David Bodian Memorial Awards

Authored by BlueAngel on
Tuesday, May 04, 2004

This particular award , David Bodian Memorial Award(s), is given yearly to someone who has been active in publicizing or providing educational and spiritual information regarding Polio/the Late Effects of Polio (PPS). It is the International Post Polio Task Force's method of recognizing the recieptient(s) of the award(s) efforts to spread the "Word----in other words "The Unsung Heroes ".

INTERNATIONAL POST-POLIO TASK FORCE

at the International Centre for Post-Polio Education and Research
Englewood Hospital and Medical Center
Englewood, New Jersey U.S.A. 07631
Phone: 201 - 894-3724 Toll Free: 1-877-POST-POLIO
PostPolioInfo@aol.com

"Every child vaccinated. Every polio survivor -- and doctor -- educated."

SENATOR ARLEN SPECTER, JEFF ZUCKER and MAUREEN McGOVERN
Receive 2004 "Year of Polio Awareness" David Bodian Memorial Awards.

David Bodian is polio survivors’ first unsung hero. Bodian discovered that
there are three polioviruses, and he uncovered the path the poliovirus
followed—from intestines into blood and ultimately into brain and spinal cord
neurons--discoveries that made polio vaccines possible. What isn't known is that Bodian spent nearly every evening during the early 1950s on the phone with Jonas Salk helping him develop the first polio vaccine.

Bodian's research also laid the foundation for our understanding of how
poliovirus-damage sets the stage for PPS. He found that 96% of motor neurons were damaged by the poliovirus but that at least 60% had to be killed before muscles show any weakness. Bodian also found that that the poliovirus damaged the brain stem whether or not it damaged the spinal cord, explaining why "brain fatigue" is the most common PPS symptom.

Each year, the International Post-Polio Task Force presents "The David Bodian
Memorial Award" to recognize polio survivors' other unsung heroes. Past recip
ients have been Senator Bill Bradley, Mia and Thaddeus Farrow, David Morse,
Debra Refson, and Congressman Steven Rothman.

David Bodian Memorial Award winners for 2004, “The Year of Polio Awareness,” are:

SENATOR ARLEN SPECTER...

... for working to release the 2003 Social Security Ruling for Post-Polio
Sequelae in order to stop inappropriate SSDI denials, sponsoring the US Senate resolution proclaiming 2004 as "The Year of Polio Awareness,” and helping to create policies so that veterans who had polio can receive health care and disability benefits. (Specter2004.com)

JEFF ZUCKER...

...President of NBC Entertainment who received his Bodian Award on "The TODAY Show" in recognition of NBC's efforts to educate Americans about PPS,
including the story on "American Dreams" of Will Pryor’s surgery to enable him to discard his long-leg brace, and NBC’s airing a PPS public service announcement (postpolioinfo.com/postpolio).

MAUREEN McGOVERN...

... singer and founder of the McGovern "Works of Heart Project for Music and
Healing” for her special recording that includes an adaptation of her new
song, "I'll Never Know," describing polio survivors slowing their Type-A
lifestyles, and the "Two Breath Time Out," the breathing relaxation exercise from How to STOP Being Vampire Bait.(maureenmcgovern.com/polio/polio.htm).

To these and all of polio survivors' unsung heroes, the International
Post-Polio Task Force gives its thanks.