Cardiovascular disease is a major cause of deaths across regions. In fact, records have it that deaths from heart disease are greater than deaths from all forms of cancer combined. Below is an inspiring story of Jackie Carr who was affected by stroke. She survived the dreaded attack, and today shares her beautiful story reminding us that cardiovascular disease can affect anyone, and this is why it is important to make healthy lifestyle choices, and know the signs and symptoms of heart attack and stroke. Here is her story: My name is Jackie Carr and I am a stroke survivor. Every day, I did the same thing…always supported the needs of others, never prioritizing my own health. I’d been diagnosed with high blood pressure and through trial and error my doctors prescribed a medicine regimen that would control my “silent killer.” It was quite an easy fix: four pills…
Ever Heard of the Clostridium Difficile Epidemic? Survivors speak
The world houses a lot of unusual diseases and epidemics. With every passing minute a new disease is discovered and research begins immediately to find possible cures for the diseases. It is however important that proper sensitization is carried out such that preventive measures are implemented early enough. Clostridium Difficle popularly known as C.Diff., is a relatively new epidemic that has begun to assume dominance across regions. I came across a blog story of a survivor of this dreaded disease, who thought it wise to enlighten people of its symptoms and the best ways by which it can be managed. Here are some things you need to know about C.Diff. While some may find the subject indelicate, I believe it is important to relate my experience in order to raise awareness about C. Diff. for several reasons. First, epidemics of Clostridium Difficile occur with frightening regularity in various hospitals and…
Living Healthy with Osteoporosis- Layla Audi’s Story
Osteoporosis, which literally means porous bone, is a disease in which the density and quality of bone are reduced. As bones become more porous and fragile, the risk of fracture is greatly increased. The loss of bone occurs silently and progressively. Often there are no symptoms until the first fracture occurs. As we age some of our bone cells begin to dissolve bone matrix (resorption), while new bone cells deposit osteoid (formation). This process is known as remodeling. For people with osteoporosis, bone loss outpaces the growth of new bone. Bones become porous, brittle and prone to fracture. Around the world, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men are at risk of an osteoporotic fracture. In fact, an osteoporotic fracture is estimated to occur every 3 seconds. The most common fractures associated with osteoporosis occur at the hip, spine and wrist. The likelihood of these fractures occurring, particularly…
New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients
Peggy Kessler We have heard a lot of stories about different types of cancers and how women have pulled through their terminal battles. Pancreatic cancer is one of those terminal diseases that affect women. Some have lost to the dreaded battle, but there are some who have managed to pull through despite the numerous other illnesses that come along with a failing liver. Peggy Kessler had a stage IV pancreatic cancer and she pulled through it. Here is her story: “You have two months to live. Go home and get your things in order.” Those were the words I heard in July 2001. Just days before, I had walked 18 holes in a golf tournament and that evening I thought I might have food poisoning. After a few days, I still didn’t feel any better. A friend told me that my eyes looked yellow, so I went to the doctor.…
The Audacity of Faith
Breast Cancer is one of the most dreaded illnesses in the history of women as it not only comes as depressing, but also carries along scary thoughts which are rather imagined than felt. This comes as unthinkable for most women, giving that the breasts are exclusive to the women folk, and something they pride in. According to Susan Komen, there are over 200,000 new cases of breast cancer in the US and more cases are yet to arise. Here is a story of Erin Ripplinger, a survivor of breast cancer, who also survived pregnancy with her Chemo treatments: I was diagnosed at 23 with stage 4 breast cancer. Little did I know that I would not only be fighting for my life but the life of a baby, one I didn’t even know I was pregnant with until I was six months along! The doctors were shocked at my…
The Aftermath of a Heart Surgery- A Story of Kimberly Goodloe
After getting a mechanical heart valve replacement and a pacemaker, former social worker and teacher Kimberly Goodloe found herself in an unfamiliar position: asking for help.
Making peace with the surgeries she required and adjusting to her new “normal” presented significant challenges to the active, independent woman, who was more comfortable helping others. She also had to learn how to be a better advocate for herself and build support networks.
A Daring Hope in the face of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Karen Ager, 48, is an author, wife, and teacher, and is currently completing her master’s degree in Wellness (mind, body and spirit health and wellbeing). Ager has been living with rheumatoid arthritis for three decades, since she was a teenager, spending her free time on the beaches of Melbourne, Australia, where she grew up.