"TURNING THOSE MS SCARS INTO STARS"

MS, lesions, also known as plaques, are patches of inflammation in the central nervous system in which the nerve cells have been striped of their protective myelin or insulating cover. These demyelinated neurons do not function properly and it is these lesions that give rise to the symptoms of MS.

In relapsing-remitting MS, their is significant recovery as the inflammation dies down. Special maintenance cells called glial cells are responsible for the repair of the damaged nerves. One type of glial cell, called an oligodendrocyte, lays down new myelin and another type, called an astrocyte lays down SCAR tissue.

A STAR is defined as a heavenly body, champion, headliner or a virtuoso. Another definition of a Star is defined as a network whose components are connected to a hub.

My faith in God is my connection and that is how I am "Turning Those MS Scars Into Stars." I am striving to experience the challenge of living with MS as a Blessing, an opportunity to grow in compassion, patience, grace, and love, all of which are blessings - Multiple Blessings Not Multiple Sclerosis!

Monday, August 8, 2011

Feeling Discouraged? Check this out!



MUST READ BOOK



Find the Upside of the Down Times:
How to Turn Your Worst Experiences Into Your Best Opportunities
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"I enjoyed this book tremendously. It grabbed me from the first chapter and got me to think in ways that have changed my life for the better. We all have different sides of life that we have to deal with, whether having a illness, being a caregiver, or a spouse or corporate employee. Your book touches others in all these areas because you share so many different sides of yourself. I know your book will be a great help to a lot of people. My husband's got to read this."
Paula Joiner, Editor of the MS Lone Star Classifieds
 

  

Monday, August 1, 2011

Whey! IT'S EVEN HOTTER IN AUGUST


Whew It's Still Hot! - Keep Cool in August With These New Tips
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Water - Not Just For Drinking  
    • If you are out and about in public zoos or events look for misting stations. These are area set up with fans and water misting blowers that are very refreshing in the sweltering heat. 
Remember Hot Air Raises   
    • Well insulated attics keep heat out. Look for Government Energy Savers Rebates to save money on improvements.   
    • Radiant Foil Energy Barriers - It's worth checking into this type of system. It can be a do it yourself installation or check for a reputable contractor in your area. Make sure it is Radiant Barrier Foil and that it's installed properly. 
Foods - That are not heavy or hearty 
    • Graze by eating smaller, lighter meals more often, like salads and chilled soups and desserts.  Keep in mind it takes energy for the body to digest the food that is eaten, so keep meals cool, and in smaller portions.  
Keep lotions or body creams in the refrigerator  
    • Applying lotions or creams that have been keep stored in refrigerator refreshes the skin and leaves a nice cooling sensation.
    • Chilled bottles of Witch Hazel or After-shave Lotion applied after shaving is very helpful in giving a cool refreshing finish.  
If you don't have air-conditioning, arrange to spend at least parts of the day in a shopping mall, public library, movie theater, or other public space that is cool. Many cities have cooling centers that are open to the public on sweltering days. The indoor play areas at McDonalds are great for small children. 

Finally stay in the shade and wear light colored natural fiber clothing.  
    • Seersucker Suites are actually cooler because of the pucker design of the fabric, which catches the air, and is made of cotton. These suites may be worn by both men and women for business/dress attire.  
    • Also, take cues from the style apparel worn by people living in warmer climates. These items of clothing are usually made from light-weight, gauzy fabric into loose fitting apparel, so air circulates through keeping the body cooler.  
You may have other tips that you would like to share. Please visit our Forum "Whew It's Hot" to leave your favorite tips. Keep cool!         

Monday, June 13, 2011

Why Stay Home, Why Not Fly? Part 2

I met an interesting elderly women on a resent flight through Charlotte. She was traveling alone and with an oxygen supply. I noticed her because we were both in the early boarding area of the airline terminal. She shared with me that she had not been out of her house in years. I immediately imagined that this must have been a major event for her to attempt to make her first outing a flight across country, perhaps a death in the family. But she soon added that it was her granddaughter's birthday, and she wasn't going to miss another one. That made me think how little time we have to spend with love ones since the reason for my fight was to be with a family member in hospice.
The fear of flying for some is very real and difficult if not impossible but, overcoming the fear of being in a situation where you are unable to take care of yourself takes guts. I admire this lady's resolve that at her age and condition nothing was going to stop her from spending time with family.

THINK ABOUT IT.