Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
COSA Waiver Care Management - Will be a thing of past if you don't raise you voice
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Monday, July 9, 2012
COSA Waiver Care Management - Will be a thing of past if you don't raise you voice
To contact us Click HERE
If you have not heard the Secretary of Aging in the state of PA is proposing to make changes to the Waiver Care Management Program. The Waiver Care Management Program is currently a system whereby once COSA intake staff assesses a client and places him or her into the waiver program, the consumer or the client is assigned a care manager. This care manager is located in the local county office so in Delaware County, the care managers are in the Eddystone PA office.
Many of these care managers live locally and part of our community. The same goes for Montgomery County Adult and Aging Services as well as Chester County's Department of Aging. Each location has a set of care managers that work with seniors in their community.
These care managers go out and visit the clients, they speak with clients on the phone about their needs and they support and provide assistance to many family members as well. Some clients live alone and have no support so the local care manager visiting or calling and knowing the client makes a world of difference in the senior's life. Individuals with multiple needs may call the care manager several times a week with issues ranging from not feeling well, to having a problem understanding a service they are receiving to any issue related to their care.
For providers like Comfort Keepers, our office phone rings with concerns from clients and as a provider we feel very comfortable referring the client back to his or care manager in Eddystone. Knowing the care managers are local residents and the office is not far from ours, we can be assured that if required the care manager could visit the client and address any issues in person. Many clients suffer from loss of hearing so often it is easier to speak in person than over a phone.
If the Secretary of Aging in the state of PA enacts Act 22, the care management system could change. There will no longer be a local representation of care management. The proposed change is to hire an outside agency, one agency, to provide care management for the entire state of PA. No one seems to know where this agency will be located. This means if the agency is located in say Pittsburgh, the agency will provide care management for our COSA clients in Delaware County. The other change proposed is to have the agency provided a limited amount of care management per month to each client. Once that amount has been reached it does not matter whether it is first of month or 25th of month, the client have met his or her limit for care management.
If you feel this is something that will greatly impact your services or services of a loved one, there is a petition you can sign to help stop the enactment of Act 22. If you are interested in joining the fight or writing a letter to the Governor, please click here - http://www.change.org/petitions/governor-tom-corbett-stop-dpw-from-enacting-the-planned-regulations-which-will-harm-seniors
Many of these care managers live locally and part of our community. The same goes for Montgomery County Adult and Aging Services as well as Chester County's Department of Aging. Each location has a set of care managers that work with seniors in their community.
These care managers go out and visit the clients, they speak with clients on the phone about their needs and they support and provide assistance to many family members as well. Some clients live alone and have no support so the local care manager visiting or calling and knowing the client makes a world of difference in the senior's life. Individuals with multiple needs may call the care manager several times a week with issues ranging from not feeling well, to having a problem understanding a service they are receiving to any issue related to their care.
For providers like Comfort Keepers, our office phone rings with concerns from clients and as a provider we feel very comfortable referring the client back to his or care manager in Eddystone. Knowing the care managers are local residents and the office is not far from ours, we can be assured that if required the care manager could visit the client and address any issues in person. Many clients suffer from loss of hearing so often it is easier to speak in person than over a phone.
If the Secretary of Aging in the state of PA enacts Act 22, the care management system could change. There will no longer be a local representation of care management. The proposed change is to hire an outside agency, one agency, to provide care management for the entire state of PA. No one seems to know where this agency will be located. This means if the agency is located in say Pittsburgh, the agency will provide care management for our COSA clients in Delaware County. The other change proposed is to have the agency provided a limited amount of care management per month to each client. Once that amount has been reached it does not matter whether it is first of month or 25th of month, the client have met his or her limit for care management.
If you feel this is something that will greatly impact your services or services of a loved one, there is a petition you can sign to help stop the enactment of Act 22. If you are interested in joining the fight or writing a letter to the Governor, please click here - http://www.change.org/petitions/governor-tom-corbett-stop-dpw-from-enacting-the-planned-regulations-which-will-harm-seniors
Please check on neighbors and pets in this heat
To contact us Click HERE
Just quick reminder to check on neighbors and pets during this heat wave. Tomorrow is expected to be over 100 degrees. As people age they do not feel temperature the same way younger people do so please make sure they are keeping the house ventilated with fans and/or air conditioning. Often older folks will not want the air conditioner to be turned on because they say it makes the house cold but we need to strongly suggest that they turn it on in high heat at least for couple hours during the hottest part of the day to cool the house down.
Preparing the House for the Summer - Keep Cool
To contact us Click HERE
This article taken from the Comfort Keepers website, to read more like it, click HERE.
Summer months can become exceedingly hot for many but especially for seniors. Every summer, the news reports stories of seniors facing life-threatening conditions, and in some cases, even death, due to effects of high temperatures. While it is widely known that seniors should take care when venturing outdoors during sweltering hot days, it is also important for seniors to know they can become overheated in their own homes.
As seniors age, their bodies become less able to regulate internal temperatures. Sometimes medications they take can contribute to this condition. As a result, you may find that seniors wear sweaters because they feel chilly when, in fact, they should not be cold at all. Other seniors may opt to leave air conditioners off for the same reason. In summer months, this type of behavior can cause seniors to become overheated in their own homes.
It is vitally important for seniors to be aware of the dangers of becoming overheated. One place to start is by helping seniors prepare their homes for the summer months, especially if they live in areas where temperatures become extreme.
Exterior
Make sure caulking around windows and weather strips around doors are in good repair. Having windows tinted to keep the sunlight at bay can help keep homes cool. Hire an air conditioning repair company to perform service on units: clean coils, filters, and appropriate freon levels ensure air handlers are efficient and prevent break-downs during critical months. Check to see if insulation and ventilation in the attic is sufficient. Planting shade trees to provide cover from the sun can help keep homes cool.
Interior
Install ceiling fans to keep rooms cool. Remember, during the summer months ceiling fans should be set to run in a counter-clockwise motion to vent air downwards for a cooling affect. (Most fans have a switch above the blades to do this, as in the winter months the blades should be running in a clockwise motion). Make sure drapes or shades are adequate to keep the sun from beaming in through the windows during the peak of the day. Make sure the clothes dryer vents are clear. If they are clogged, the heat generated by the dryer seeps into the home instead of out the vent. Clogged dryer vents can present a fire hazard, so it is especially important to maintain them properly. Small, battery-operated personal fans can help. Spray bottles filled with water offer a refreshing spritz to keep from overheating.
In any event make sure seniors understand the dangers of becoming overheated during the summer. Some may be surprised this can happen in their own homes. The more education they receive regarding the dangers, the more able they are to take care of themselves properly and beat the heat in the summer.
Emergency Preparedness
When seniors live home alone, it is important for them to be prepared for emergencies. During sweltering summers, some states initiate rolling blackouts in order to keep power grids from overheating. Sometimes air conditioners simply break, or electricity can go out for other reasons. In these instances, it is important for seniors to be prepared to keep cool until the situation is rectified. Freezing small bottles of water during the summer is a good idea. If the power goes out, removing them for drinking when they thaw can keep seniors cool. It is also a good idea to wet a few washcloths and keep them in the freezer; if there is a power outage, these can be placed on the back of the neck to help keep seniors cool. Storing extra bottled water is crucial to maintain proper hydration during an emergency.
If seniors do not have family or friends close by, it may be a good idea to hire a company such as Comfort Keepers® to check on them to ensure safety during the summer months. Comfort Keepers can check the temperature levels and ventilation inside homes, as well as help perform daily tasks around the house to keep seniors cool.
References
Statepoint Media (2012). Prepare your home for summer weather. Retrieved on May 24, 2012 from http://goqnotes.com/14982/prepare-your-home-for-summer-weather/.
Frugaldad.com (2008). Preparing your home for summer temperatures. Retrieved on May 24, 2012 from http://frugaldad.com/2008/03/06/prepare-your-home-for-summer-energy-savi....
WebMD.com. Caregiving and your loved one’s health. Retrieved on May 24, 2012 from http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/caregiving-tips-supporting-your-loved-ones-health.
Summer months can become exceedingly hot for many but especially for seniors. Every summer, the news reports stories of seniors facing life-threatening conditions, and in some cases, even death, due to effects of high temperatures. While it is widely known that seniors should take care when venturing outdoors during sweltering hot days, it is also important for seniors to know they can become overheated in their own homes.
As seniors age, their bodies become less able to regulate internal temperatures. Sometimes medications they take can contribute to this condition. As a result, you may find that seniors wear sweaters because they feel chilly when, in fact, they should not be cold at all. Other seniors may opt to leave air conditioners off for the same reason. In summer months, this type of behavior can cause seniors to become overheated in their own homes. It is vitally important for seniors to be aware of the dangers of becoming overheated. One place to start is by helping seniors prepare their homes for the summer months, especially if they live in areas where temperatures become extreme.
Exterior
Make sure caulking around windows and weather strips around doors are in good repair. Having windows tinted to keep the sunlight at bay can help keep homes cool. Hire an air conditioning repair company to perform service on units: clean coils, filters, and appropriate freon levels ensure air handlers are efficient and prevent break-downs during critical months. Check to see if insulation and ventilation in the attic is sufficient. Planting shade trees to provide cover from the sun can help keep homes cool.
Interior
Install ceiling fans to keep rooms cool. Remember, during the summer months ceiling fans should be set to run in a counter-clockwise motion to vent air downwards for a cooling affect. (Most fans have a switch above the blades to do this, as in the winter months the blades should be running in a clockwise motion). Make sure drapes or shades are adequate to keep the sun from beaming in through the windows during the peak of the day. Make sure the clothes dryer vents are clear. If they are clogged, the heat generated by the dryer seeps into the home instead of out the vent. Clogged dryer vents can present a fire hazard, so it is especially important to maintain them properly. Small, battery-operated personal fans can help. Spray bottles filled with water offer a refreshing spritz to keep from overheating.
In any event make sure seniors understand the dangers of becoming overheated during the summer. Some may be surprised this can happen in their own homes. The more education they receive regarding the dangers, the more able they are to take care of themselves properly and beat the heat in the summer.
Emergency Preparedness
When seniors live home alone, it is important for them to be prepared for emergencies. During sweltering summers, some states initiate rolling blackouts in order to keep power grids from overheating. Sometimes air conditioners simply break, or electricity can go out for other reasons. In these instances, it is important for seniors to be prepared to keep cool until the situation is rectified. Freezing small bottles of water during the summer is a good idea. If the power goes out, removing them for drinking when they thaw can keep seniors cool. It is also a good idea to wet a few washcloths and keep them in the freezer; if there is a power outage, these can be placed on the back of the neck to help keep seniors cool. Storing extra bottled water is crucial to maintain proper hydration during an emergency.
If seniors do not have family or friends close by, it may be a good idea to hire a company such as Comfort Keepers® to check on them to ensure safety during the summer months. Comfort Keepers can check the temperature levels and ventilation inside homes, as well as help perform daily tasks around the house to keep seniors cool.
References
Statepoint Media (2012). Prepare your home for summer weather. Retrieved on May 24, 2012 from http://goqnotes.com/14982/prepare-your-home-for-summer-weather/.
Frugaldad.com (2008). Preparing your home for summer temperatures. Retrieved on May 24, 2012 from http://frugaldad.com/2008/03/06/prepare-your-home-for-summer-energy-savi....
WebMD.com. Caregiving and your loved one’s health. Retrieved on May 24, 2012 from http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/caregiving-tips-supporting-your-loved-ones-health.
Need phone numbers for Veterans office, COSA or other services?
To contact us Click HERE
Aging Veterans looking for assistance with in-home care needs? Need help in home for senior who has low or minimal income? Elderly senior citizen who lives in Philadelphia, Montgomery, Chester or Delaware County PA and need help with showering, light housekeeping, laundry, meals? Want to know about the Special Pension Benefit offered by Veterans Administration for aging veterans and/or widows? If so, Comfort Keepers, an in-home provider of assisted living type services can provide you with the information and phone numbers you need. To find the phone numbers for you local Veterans Administration office, Area Agency on Aging office, click HERE. If you live outside of the Southeastern PA area, please go to main Comfort Keepers site and contact an office near you. Comfort Keepers website is www.comfortkeepers.com
Aging Veterans: Special Pension Benefit from Veterans Administration Veterans and/or Widows who qualify
To contact us Click HERE
For aging veterans, one of their most important benefit programs is the Veterans Non-Service Connected Improved Pension Benefit Program. Established to assist qualified veterans, and/or their surviving spouses and family, the Veterans NSC Improved Pension Benefit Program provides financial support that enables veterans to live independently while receiving the quality of care they deserve. In particular, funds are available for aging veterans who need assistance with medical and non-medical care both in the home and in qualified facilities.
“We see many clients that are faced with the difficult task of covering their healthcare expenses,” said Clark Bongaardt of Springfield, PA Comfort Keepers. “If they qualify for these funds, it takes a huge burden off of veterans and their families. This money can be used to ensure they are given access to the care they need.”
Qualifications
To qualify for the Veterans NSC Improved Pension Benefit Programs, a veteran must have 90 days or more of active duty with at least one of those days served during a US-declared war. The benefits are designed for those who meet specific financial criteria and demonstrate a physical need for healthcare.
The Department of Veterans Affairs determines active duty as full-time service, other than active duty for training, as a member of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, or as a commissioned officer of the Public Health Service, Environmental Science Services Administration or National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or its predecessor, the Coast and Geodetic Survey.
Other qualifications and considerations:
• Discharge for any reason other than dishonorable conditions
• Over the age of 65 or disabled
• Total financial assets
• Physical condition
• Current marital status (if you are the surviving spouse of a veteran)
• Total gross income versus medical deduction
For phone numbers to southeastern PA Veteran Medical Centers click HERE.
“We see many clients that are faced with the difficult task of covering their healthcare expenses,” said Clark Bongaardt of Springfield, PA Comfort Keepers. “If they qualify for these funds, it takes a huge burden off of veterans and their families. This money can be used to ensure they are given access to the care they need.”
Qualifications
To qualify for the Veterans NSC Improved Pension Benefit Programs, a veteran must have 90 days or more of active duty with at least one of those days served during a US-declared war. The benefits are designed for those who meet specific financial criteria and demonstrate a physical need for healthcare.
The Department of Veterans Affairs determines active duty as full-time service, other than active duty for training, as a member of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, or as a commissioned officer of the Public Health Service, Environmental Science Services Administration or National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or its predecessor, the Coast and Geodetic Survey.
Other qualifications and considerations:
• Discharge for any reason other than dishonorable conditions
• Over the age of 65 or disabled
• Total financial assets
• Physical condition
• Current marital status (if you are the surviving spouse of a veteran)
• Total gross income versus medical deduction
For phone numbers to southeastern PA Veteran Medical Centers click HERE.
Sunday, July 8, 2012
Ucare Caregiver Events
To contact us Click HERE
Become involved with those who educate or attend classes to become educated yourselves. Professionals attend these classes as well, so it may be a way to network and find an internship in the professionals for seniors realm.
Ucare is a website developed by the Department of Human Resources as a resource for caregivers to find answers about long-term care, services available for seniors, and services available for caregivers.
The Ucare Caregiver Guide provides classes which give hands-on training on a variety of topics of caregivers. The classes will start the last week in March and run for 9 weeks. There is a $3 charge for each class, or the whole set of classes cost $20.
One participant said, "It is a new world - this care-taking business ... Who would have known that life just doesn't come to a rainbow end for our loved ones, but rather, we have to travel a very different road than we ever have before to help them finish with grace and dignity and proper care."
To register, visit mountainand.org/care.
Classes:
Payson
Thursdays, March 29-May 24
7:00 - 8:30 pm
Parkway Health
55 S Professional Way, Payson
Orem/Provo
Fridays, March 30 - May 25
10:30 - 11:30 am
Courtyard at Jamestown
3352 N 100 E, Provo
American Fork
Tuesdays, March 27 - May 22
6:30 - 8:00 pm
American Fork Library Gardner Community Room
64 S 100 E
Ucare is a website developed by the Department of Human Resources as a resource for caregivers to find answers about long-term care, services available for seniors, and services available for caregivers.
The Ucare Caregiver Guide provides classes which give hands-on training on a variety of topics of caregivers. The classes will start the last week in March and run for 9 weeks. There is a $3 charge for each class, or the whole set of classes cost $20.
One participant said, "It is a new world - this care-taking business ... Who would have known that life just doesn't come to a rainbow end for our loved ones, but rather, we have to travel a very different road than we ever have before to help them finish with grace and dignity and proper care."
To register, visit mountainand.org/care.
Classes:
Payson
Thursdays, March 29-May 24
7:00 - 8:30 pm
Parkway Health
55 S Professional Way, Payson
Orem/Provo
Fridays, March 30 - May 25
10:30 - 11:30 am
Courtyard at Jamestown
3352 N 100 E, Provo
American Fork
Tuesdays, March 27 - May 22
6:30 - 8:00 pm
American Fork Library Gardner Community Room
64 S 100 E
Upcoming Lectures
To contact us Click HERE
ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES
Wednesday, March 21
11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Provo Regional Center Room 5060
150 E Center St. Provo
The class will feature adult protective services (APS), indicators of abuse/neglect/exploitation, and abuse prevention
To register contact Darrin Lee or Kiri Brough
CARE MEETING SUPPORT GROUP
Thursday, March 1
2:00 pm
Beehive Homes of Provo
2877 W Center, Provo
LIVING WELL WITH CHRONIC DISEASE
Wednesday, Feb 22 - March 21
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Central Orem Clinic
505 W 400 N Orem
Interested in educating about chronic disease management?
Check out these programs:
WellU
Southwest Utah Public Health Department
Central Utah Public Health Department
Chronic diseases = Management
To successfully manage chronic diseases, individuals and family members need:
Wednesday, March 21
11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Provo Regional Center Room 5060
150 E Center St. Provo
The class will feature adult protective services (APS), indicators of abuse/neglect/exploitation, and abuse prevention
To register contact Darrin Lee or Kiri Brough
CARE MEETING SUPPORT GROUP
Thursday, March 1
2:00 pm
Beehive Homes of Provo
2877 W Center, Provo
LIVING WELL WITH CHRONIC DISEASE
Wednesday, Feb 22 - March 21
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Central Orem Clinic
505 W 400 N Orem
Interested in educating about chronic disease management?
Check out these programs:
WellU
Southwest Utah Public Health Department
Central Utah Public Health Department
Chronic diseases = Management
To successfully manage chronic diseases, individuals and family members need:
- Education - own the disease and understand all of the disease's aspects
- Support - attend support groups, reach out at church and with family
- Positive Coping Strategies - develop strategies that work best individually
Trinity Mission Health & Rehab Center
To contact us Click HERE
Recently, one of our classmates had the opportunity to attend the Valentine's Day Dance at the Trinity Mission Health and Rehab Center. Natalie had a wonderful experience visiting with the older adults and and brightening their day. Even though many of the residents were undergoing rehabilitation, Natalie met people with spirited personalities and an immense love for BYU.
Here are some pictures from the dance:
Looking for experience and a place to serve?
Trinity Mission Health and Rehab of Provo is one of the largest nursing homes in the state with 99 beds. It is located at 1053 W 1020 S Provo and can be contacted at 801.373.2630.
Here are some pictures from the dance:
Looking for experience and a place to serve?
Trinity Mission Health and Rehab of Provo is one of the largest nursing homes in the state with 99 beds. It is located at 1053 W 1020 S Provo and can be contacted at 801.373.2630.
Don't Forget. . .
To contact us Click HERE
Remember that the BYU Gerontology Conference is this week - Wednesday night and Thursday morning. Our guest speaker, Dr. John C. Morris, will address what's new with Alzheimer's. Please attend Dr. Morris' presentations.
Keynote Address:
"Advances in Alzheimer's Disease: The Role of Biomarkers in Diagnosis and Therapy"
14 Mar, 7:00 pm
1060 HBLL Auditorium
Reception will follow
Research Presentation:
"Preclinical Alzheimer Disease: The New Research Frontier"
15 Mar, 11:00 am
B037 JFSB
Also, if you're in health 466, there is no class this week so you can attend the conference. You will need to turn in a report about your experience at the conference.
Keynote Address:
"Advances in Alzheimer's Disease: The Role of Biomarkers in Diagnosis and Therapy"
14 Mar, 7:00 pm
1060 HBLL Auditorium
Reception will follow
Research Presentation:
"Preclinical Alzheimer Disease: The New Research Frontier"
15 Mar, 11:00 am
B037 JFSB
Also, if you're in health 466, there is no class this week so you can attend the conference. You will need to turn in a report about your experience at the conference.
Alzheimer's Care
To contact us Click HERE
Thank you for all of those who attended the gerontoloy conference this year! It was well received and our guest speaker gave us awesome insights into his work and progress with preventing Alzheimer's. Additionally, Dr. Morris explained that there is genetic mutation that can cause Alzheimer's. Alzheimer's deteriates the brain, and can leave our loved ones feeling lost and confused.
Causes and risk factors
Opportunities are available to give special care to adults who have Alzheimer's from special care in assisted living to day centers to releive caregivers. Here are some potential opportunities for you to work with seniors with Alzheimer's and dementia.
- Golden Living Orem
- Courtyard at Jamestown Assisted Living
- Ashford Alzheiemer's and Memory Care
- Aspen Senior Center
- Orchard Park Care Center
- Medallion Manor Inc.
For a more indepth list, click here.
If have never worked with seniors with Alzheimer's disease or dementia, you will soon learn that they still have unique and fun personalities and love interaction, just like you.
Causes and risk factors
- Older age
- Close blood relative has developed Alzheimer's
- Certain genes (APOE epsilon4 allele)
- Female
- High blood pressure over a long period of time
- History of head trauma
- Emotaional behavior and personality
- Language
- Memory
- Perception
- Judgement
Opportunities are available to give special care to adults who have Alzheimer's from special care in assisted living to day centers to releive caregivers. Here are some potential opportunities for you to work with seniors with Alzheimer's and dementia.
- Golden Living Orem
- Courtyard at Jamestown Assisted Living
- Ashford Alzheiemer's and Memory Care
- Aspen Senior Center
- Orchard Park Care Center
- Medallion Manor Inc.
For a more indepth list, click here.
If have never worked with seniors with Alzheimer's disease or dementia, you will soon learn that they still have unique and fun personalities and love interaction, just like you.
Saturday, July 7, 2012
Alzheimer's Breakthrough Ride Journal: Ann Arbor to Cleveland
To contact us Click HERE
I started my adventure at the signing event in Ann Arbor on Thursday afternoon where I was deeply moved by the story told by a young lady about her life with a 31 year old husband who had early onset Alzheimer's disease.
We started our trip early the next morning on a sunny day. Thankfully it was cool, which prompted me to wear several layers of clothing. This served me well shortly after breakfast when I had a small altercation with a rail road crossing. The result was only some mild "roads rash" and injured pride. The remainder of the day went well and I was able to enjoy the rest of the trip.
I road the 200 miles to Cleveland to find my wife Carolyn who is slipping into the fog of dementia. Her talents as a mother, wife, scientist, and doll artist are being shrouded by a thick haze, but SHE IS STILL THERE. It is up to me as her primary care giver with the help of our family, friends, and our entire community to shine some light through the haze and highlight her unique talents and thus to preserve her intrinsic value and worth, which is her humanity.
It is incumbent on all of us to seek out those who are being drawn into the murky world of dementia and to continue to highlight their uniqueness and preserve their humanity.
-Charlie Farrell, M.D., is a retired vascular surgeon with a life-long interest in participating in and promoting running and multi-sport training.
We started our trip early the next morning on a sunny day. Thankfully it was cool, which prompted me to wear several layers of clothing. This served me well shortly after breakfast when I had a small altercation with a rail road crossing. The result was only some mild "roads rash" and injured pride. The remainder of the day went well and I was able to enjoy the rest of the trip.
I road the 200 miles to Cleveland to find my wife Carolyn who is slipping into the fog of dementia. Her talents as a mother, wife, scientist, and doll artist are being shrouded by a thick haze, but SHE IS STILL THERE. It is up to me as her primary care giver with the help of our family, friends, and our entire community to shine some light through the haze and highlight her unique talents and thus to preserve her intrinsic value and worth, which is her humanity.
It is incumbent on all of us to seek out those who are being drawn into the murky world of dementia and to continue to highlight their uniqueness and preserve their humanity.
-Charlie Farrell, M.D., is a retired vascular surgeon with a life-long interest in participating in and promoting running and multi-sport training.
Alzheimer's Breakthrough Ride Journal: Ann Arbor to Cleveland Day 2
To contact us Click HERE
The second day of the ride from Ann Arbor to Cleveland started similar to the first. It was a crisp, cool (52 degrees) morning as we headed out of Perrysburg towards Sandusky at 7 AM (a total of a little more than 60 miles). Although a bit warmer than the first morning, Charlie and I still had on our tights, gloves and windbreakers for the first few hours of the morning. There was also a forecast of rain for later in the day. I was feeling a bit stiff from the first days ride, but slowly loosened up over the first few miles. We had several railroad crossings that both Charlie and I had a much greater respect and appreciation for after the previous days ride.
A bit after the first rest stop, we had our first excitement of the day. As we passed a small farmhouse, a medium to large size dog, bee-lined towards my bike with teeth bared and a ferocious snarl. I instinctively sped up and swerved onto the opposite side of the road (thankfully few cars were on these roads this early on a Saturday morning). With the dog at my heels and my heart pounding, I thought about trying to kick the dog, although my shoes were firmly clipped into my pedals. Instead, I sped up even further and after an equal burst of speed from the dog, he finally retreated to the side of the road. I turned around to see if the dog had any designs on Charlie, who was only 50-100 yards behind me. Thankfully, the effort required in chasing my bike seemed to have exhausted the dog who remained on the side of the road panting. For the rest of the day I relived this episode and jumped off my bike at the sound of every barking dog…
The next 20 miles or so were into a strong head wind that both Charlie and I felt like we were slogging through even though the terrain was quite flat. After an excellent lunch on the Pony, we completed the day uneventfully and arrived into Sandusky just as the first rain drops started to fall. That night we enjoyed hamburgers at a local restaurant/bar, which was filled with Ohio State buckeye fans rooting on their team. Later that evening, we were joined by my son (Raza Lamb) and Dr. Sanjay Pimplikar, who would ride the final day from Sandusky to Cleveland with us.
The three days riding with Charlie were wonderful. We had cool days and dry, flat roads through wonderful farm country (albeit with a few too many railroad crossings and dogs!). In addition, it was inspirational to ride with a 75-year-old man who was so committed to bringing awareness to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. We talked at length about how as Americans we need to do much more to effectively integrate individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers into our families, communities and society.
The second day of the ride from Ann Arbor to Cleveland started similar to the first. It was a crisp, cool (52 degrees) morning as we headed out of Perrysburg towards Sandusky at 7 AM (a total of a little more than 60 miles). Although a bit warmer than the first morning, Charlie and I still had on our tights, gloves and windbreakers for the first few hours of the morning. There was also a forecast of rain for later in the day. I was feeling a bit stiff from the first days ride, but slowly loosened up over the first few miles. We had several railroad crossings that both Charlie and I had a much greater respect and appreciation for after the previous days ride.A bit after the first rest stop, we had our first excitement of the day. As we passed a small farmhouse, a medium to large size dog, bee-lined towards my bike with teeth bared and a ferocious snarl. I instinctively sped up and swerved onto the opposite side of the road (thankfully few cars were on these roads this early on a Saturday morning). With the dog at my heels and my heart pounding, I thought about trying to kick the dog, although my shoes were firmly clipped into my pedals. Instead, I sped up even further and after an equal burst of speed from the dog, he finally retreated to the side of the road. I turned around to see if the dog had any designs on Charlie, who was only 50-100 yards behind me. Thankfully, the effort required in chasing my bike seemed to have exhausted the dog who remained on the side of the road panting. For the rest of the day I relived this episode and jumped off my bike at the sound of every barking dog…
The next 20 miles or so were into a strong head wind that both Charlie and I felt like we were slogging through even though the terrain was quite flat. After an excellent lunch on the Pony, we completed the day uneventfully and arrived into Sandusky just as the first rain drops started to fall. That night we enjoyed hamburgers at a local restaurant/bar, which was filled with Ohio State buckeye fans rooting on their team. Later that evening, we were joined by my son (Raza Lamb) and Dr. Sanjay Pimplikar, who would ride the final day from Sandusky to Cleveland with us.
The three days riding with Charlie were wonderful. We had cool days and dry, flat roads through wonderful farm country (albeit with a few too many railroad crossings and dogs!). In addition, it was inspirational to ride with a 75-year-old man who was so committed to bringing awareness to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. We talked at length about how as Americans we need to do much more to effectively integrate individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers into our families, communities and society.
Alzheimer's Breakthrough Ride Journal: Cleveland to Pittsburgh Day 2
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First of all, I am not an Alzheimer’s Researcher. I am what was often referred to as an “other,” meaning I have a personal connection to Alzheimer’s disease. My wife is a genetics researcher and a colleague of Dr. Bruce Lamb. Bruce sent a fundraising email to my wife, she forwarded it to me thinking I would “sign the petition and donate $50.” Instead I emailed Bruce, explained my story and asked to join the team Cleveland Rocks. Boy was she surprised that evening!
On day 2, our team consisted of me, Dr. Bruce Lamb and Dr. William Lynch. Both Bruce and Bill were more experienced riders than I; I actually bought my road bike the last week of July. Not that I wasn’t active before joining the team, but I was training for a sprint triathlon, not a long distance ride. Needless to say, I began hill and endurance training immediately.
I am riding in honor of my Grandpa Darrah, who died with Alzheimer’s disease. I found that my training rides and my ride from Cleveland to Pittsburgh were spent thinking of my grandpa and grandparents in general. All of my grandparents have passed but I feel very lucky to have known them well. My grandpa Darrah was more than just a grandpa; he was also a friend and roommate. I lived with him for almost seven years, and ended up being one of his primary caregivers.
Our day 2 from Boardman, Ohio to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania was rather uneventful, except for the constant rolling hills. In some ways I am glad that Bruce and Bill were often a little ahead of me, because I was often talking or chanting to myself. I found myself saying “this is not suffering.” I remembered my grandpa’s anger and frustration as he would try to communicate his needs and wants but couldn’t. I often whispered on the toughest hills “this is only one hill” thinking grandpa and others with Alzheimer’s had years of “tough hills.” I remembered coming home one day to find my grandma’s silver flatware in the garbage, when I removed it he said “but I have a lot of that” referring to the normal silverware. It was these memories and occasional chanting that got me through the constant hills.
All of these memories and the hills made the ride a bit of an emotional rollercoaster, in addition to a physical one. Bruce and Bill were wonderful to ride with; they were supportive and helped to keep things light. The road crew of Melanie and Glen were awesome; they seemed to anticipate our every need and I always felt safe even with semis and dump trucks barreling down on me. I am a little disappointed that I never got to try the famous Peanut Butter Fold Overs…oh well, maybe in D.C. I think my favorite part was the people we met along the way either at the hotel, a rest stop or at the signing event. Their appreciation, stories and personal dedication truly made this a special experience that I will never forget.
- Michael Darrah
On day 2, our team consisted of me, Dr. Bruce Lamb and Dr. William Lynch. Both Bruce and Bill were more experienced riders than I; I actually bought my road bike the last week of July. Not that I wasn’t active before joining the team, but I was training for a sprint triathlon, not a long distance ride. Needless to say, I began hill and endurance training immediately.
I am riding in honor of my Grandpa Darrah, who died with Alzheimer’s disease. I found that my training rides and my ride from Cleveland to Pittsburgh were spent thinking of my grandpa and grandparents in general. All of my grandparents have passed but I feel very lucky to have known them well. My grandpa Darrah was more than just a grandpa; he was also a friend and roommate. I lived with him for almost seven years, and ended up being one of his primary caregivers.
Our day 2 from Boardman, Ohio to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania was rather uneventful, except for the constant rolling hills. In some ways I am glad that Bruce and Bill were often a little ahead of me, because I was often talking or chanting to myself. I found myself saying “this is not suffering.” I remembered my grandpa’s anger and frustration as he would try to communicate his needs and wants but couldn’t. I often whispered on the toughest hills “this is only one hill” thinking grandpa and others with Alzheimer’s had years of “tough hills.” I remembered coming home one day to find my grandma’s silver flatware in the garbage, when I removed it he said “but I have a lot of that” referring to the normal silverware. It was these memories and occasional chanting that got me through the constant hills.
All of these memories and the hills made the ride a bit of an emotional rollercoaster, in addition to a physical one. Bruce and Bill were wonderful to ride with; they were supportive and helped to keep things light. The road crew of Melanie and Glen were awesome; they seemed to anticipate our every need and I always felt safe even with semis and dump trucks barreling down on me. I am a little disappointed that I never got to try the famous Peanut Butter Fold Overs…oh well, maybe in D.C. I think my favorite part was the people we met along the way either at the hotel, a rest stop or at the signing event. Their appreciation, stories and personal dedication truly made this a special experience that I will never forget.
- Michael Darrah
Alzheimer's Breakthrough Ride Journal: Indianapolis to Ann Arbor
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In light of what those who rode before us have endured, I wish I had a tale of woe to tell, but alas, this particular segment of the Alzheimer’s Breakthrough Ride was nothing shy of epic riding. We had trained for all conditions…except perfection. By the mid-afternoons, it was mostly sunny and in the low 80s. The few clouds that were present had that distinct late summer softness to their contours. If it can be imagined, it was as though Ann Huston took her paintbrush to the Midwestern sky. As a cyclist though, your eyes should be on the road, and the roads we traveled were oddly smooth - a particularly lucky happenstance given that back roads in the Midwest are often abused by winter and neglected by man. Then there was the greatest gift of all - an unceasing tail wind that nudged us along 215 out of the 289 miles. The three of us shattered our previous records, reaching speeds in excess of 35 mph on the flats. We didn’t maintain this speed; we just wanted to see what was possible, so on a perfectly smooth country road about 30 miles out of Indianapolis, we let loose for just short of a ½ mile.
As if the weather and roads weren’t gift enough, we were also graced with the company of Evan, Melanie, and Glenn – the greatest Pony Express crew ever assembled. As much pain as I may experience after 290 miles of riding, I was sad to leave them and would happily have pedaled on through the next segment just to share their company for a few more days. They have been on the road for eight weeks with at best a day or two off, and yet they managed to keep us warm, keep us fed, keep us hydrated, and to keep us laughing for four days. Perhaps needless to say, they also managed to find their way into our hearts.
It isn’t of great surprise that the people associated with this ride - such as Melanie, Evan, and Glenn - would be people of exceptional spirit. It isn’t of great surprise that those of you reading this would be people of exceptional compassion. For most of us, we are all too familiar with the pain that this disease brings. But bore of this pain, is an incredible beauty and testament to the human spirit: We now stand together in hope, in faith, and in action that we will bring an end to the heartbreak that is Alzheimer’s disease.
I am honored to stand amongst you in this effort and I wish us all an epic success.
- Angela Bruno is a neuroscience doctoral candidate at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFUMS).
In light of what those who rode before us have endured, I wish I had a tale of woe to tell, but alas, this particular segment of the Alzheimer’s Breakthrough Ride was nothing shy of epic riding. We had trained for all conditions…except perfection. By the mid-afternoons, it was mostly sunny and in the low 80s. The few clouds that were present had that distinct late summer softness to their contours. If it can be imagined, it was as though Ann Huston took her paintbrush to the Midwestern sky. As a cyclist though, your eyes should be on the road, and the roads we traveled were oddly smooth - a particularly lucky happenstance given that back roads in the Midwest are often abused by winter and neglected by man. Then there was the greatest gift of all - an unceasing tail wind that nudged us along 215 out of the 289 miles. The three of us shattered our previous records, reaching speeds in excess of 35 mph on the flats. We didn’t maintain this speed; we just wanted to see what was possible, so on a perfectly smooth country road about 30 miles out of Indianapolis, we let loose for just short of a ½ mile. As if the weather and roads weren’t gift enough, we were also graced with the company of Evan, Melanie, and Glenn – the greatest Pony Express crew ever assembled. As much pain as I may experience after 290 miles of riding, I was sad to leave them and would happily have pedaled on through the next segment just to share their company for a few more days. They have been on the road for eight weeks with at best a day or two off, and yet they managed to keep us warm, keep us fed, keep us hydrated, and to keep us laughing for four days. Perhaps needless to say, they also managed to find their way into our hearts.
It isn’t of great surprise that the people associated with this ride - such as Melanie, Evan, and Glenn - would be people of exceptional spirit. It isn’t of great surprise that those of you reading this would be people of exceptional compassion. For most of us, we are all too familiar with the pain that this disease brings. But bore of this pain, is an incredible beauty and testament to the human spirit: We now stand together in hope, in faith, and in action that we will bring an end to the heartbreak that is Alzheimer’s disease.
I am honored to stand amongst you in this effort and I wish us all an epic success.
- Angela Bruno is a neuroscience doctoral candidate at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFUMS).
World Alzheimer's Day 2010
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Today, World Alzheimer’s Day 2010, we have seen new levels of attention around the reality of Alzheimer’s disease, including the millions affected in the United States and across the globe.
More than 40 research riders in the Alzheimer’s Breakthrough RideSM arrived in Washington, D.C. to deliver the signatures of over 100,000 Americans who want Congress to make Alzheimer’s a national priority.
Alzheimer’s Disease International released the new World Alzheimer Report 2010, highlighting the growing costs of dementia care.
All week long, Alzheimer’s Association Celebrity Champions are appearing on “Who Wants to be a Millionaire” to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer research, care and support. Throughout the next few months, thousands of people across the country will duplicate their efforts by participating in local Memory Walk® events.
Despite these small victories, Alzheimer’s disease looms in a state of deepening crisis. More than five million Americans are affected by this devastating disease, a number that will only grow faster as the baby boomer generation ages. Left unchecked, the costs for Alzheimer care and services will continue to rise, straining our overwhelmed healthcare system and threatening to bankrupt Medicare and Medicaid.
Bearing these things in mind, we must remain vigilant in bringing more support to our cause:
- Use your voice and ask your representatives to support the National Alzheimer’s Project Act to provide more funding for research into Alzheimer’s treatment and an eventual cure.
- Share the message of the Alzheimer’s Association with your friends and family. Sign up to be an advocate (link) for the cause, and use your online social networks like Facebook and Twitter to generate awareness and support.
- Donate to the cause, or use Alzheimer’s Association tools to create your own fundraiser.
It is the support at of people exactly like you who have helped to make World Alzheimer’s Day 2010 such a success. And it will be people exactly like you who drive the change necessary to bring an end to Alzheimer’s disease in the future.
Thank you,
Angela Geiger, Chief Strategy Officer, Alzheimer’s Association
Thursday, July 5, 2012
CTisUS
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 | CTisUS This site hosts over 150,000 CT images that viewers can use to test their diagnostic skills. Images can be browsed by body system and there is an option for hiding a diagnosis in order to quiz yourself. Designed for radiologists, but radiologic technologists may find this useful, too. I've added this to the LS Radiology Research Guide.  Teaching Files - CTisusCutting edge information on body CT (Computed tomography) including a 3D vascular atlas with volume rendering, spiral CT protocols, teaching files, and case of the week.  View or comment on Steven Self's post »Google+ makes sharing on the web more like sharing in real life. Learn more.Join Google+ |
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Zygote Body
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| Zygote Body Zygote Body, formerly known as Google Body, is up and running again. It's an excellent anatomy tool that allows you to zoom in on a virtual human body, rotate it, highlight or de-emphasize body systems, and name structures. It could be very useful to students in anatomy classes or who need to refresh what they've learned. It could also be used to create images that could be captured and included in lecture notes. Please note that Zygote body works best in the Chrome browser and uses WebGL functions that might not be compatible with some computers' video cards. I've added a link to Zygote Body on the Medical Tools tab of all the health science library Research Guides. If you have any questions about it, let me know.  Zygote BodyThank you for using Zygote Body™! We are excited to release the first version of Zygote Body™ and look forward to what the future holds. Zygote is committed to supporting and developing Zygote Body™, ...View or comment on Steven Self's post »Google+ makes sharing on the web more like sharing in real life. Learn more.Join Google+ |
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OHRC Oral Health Knowledge Path
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| The Oral Health Knowledge Path from the National Maternal & Child Oral Health Resource Center has been updated. A great source for dental hygiene students and nursing students interested in pediatrics, this site points to top quality resources and data. This page is linked from the ACC Library Services Dental Hygiene Research Guide.  OHRC: Oral Health for Infants, Children, Adolescents, and Pregnant Women Knowledge PathThis guide points to key resources on the topic of oral health and pregnant women, infants, children, and adolescents.  View or comment on Steven Self's post »Google+ makes sharing on the web more like sharing in real life. Learn more.Join Google+ |
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Art School Dissected
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| Just for fun at the end of the semester -- artists dissected, with their insides represented in their own style. http://streeta   Art School Dissected at Street AnatomyObsessively covering the use of human anatomy in Medicine, Art, and Design View or comment on Steven Self's post »Google+ makes sharing on the web more like sharing in real life. Learn more.Join Google+ |
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NLM Drug Information Portal for Mobile Devices
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| NLM Drug Information Portal for Mobile Devices The National Library of Medicine's Drug Information Portal is now available for mobile devices. The portal provides information on over 30,000 drugs. Drugs can be searched by generic and trade names, or by category. Results link to chemical structures, clinical trial information, information from Medline Plus, and searches in PubMed.  Drug Information Portal - Mobile - U.S. National Library of Medicine - Quick Access to Quality Drug InformationThe NLM Drug Information Portal gives users a gateway to selected drug information from the National Library of Medicine and other key government agencies. More than 31,000 drugs can be searched.  View or comment on Steven Self's post »Google+ makes sharing on the web more like sharing in real life. Learn more.Join Google+ |
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Wednesday, July 4, 2012
Necrotizing Infections: National Story Generates Some Local Interest in Omaha
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Widespread coverage of the Georgia woman battling a necrotizing infection in an Augusta hospital has led health journalists across the country in search of the local angle. Of most interest: Doctors report an unusually high number of cases recently at Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. Hyperbaric medical director Dr Jeff Cooper said his center has treated six patients with necrotizing fasciitis, or soft tissue infections caused by flesh-eating bacteria, in just the last month or so. He cannot account for the sharp increase but briefly explained to Omaha.com how hyperbaric oxygen works against the disease:
Today the medical center is holding a press conference on the subject. More on the web at WOWT Channel 6 and the Omaha World-Herald.
[Photo: Nebraska Medical Center]
Widespread coverage of the Georgia woman battling a necrotizing infection in an Augusta hospital has led health journalists across the country in search of the local angle. Of most interest: Doctors report an unusually high number of cases recently at Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. Hyperbaric medical director Dr Jeff Cooper said his center has treated six patients with necrotizing fasciitis, or soft tissue infections caused by flesh-eating bacteria, in just the last month or so. He cannot account for the sharp increase but briefly explained to Omaha.com how hyperbaric oxygen works against the disease:Cooper said hyperbaric oxygen therapy is an important part of treating the disease. “It forces oxygen into areas that aren't getting adequate oxygen because of the tissue damage and swelling,” he said. “This revives the immune system locally and causes the antibiotics to work more effectively.”
Today the medical center is holding a press conference on the subject. More on the web at WOWT Channel 6 and the Omaha World-Herald.
[Photo: Nebraska Medical Center]
Memorial Day Reflections on Traumatic Brain Injury and the March 11 Massacre in Panjwei, Afghanistan
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This long weekend we, like all Americans, remembered our fallen war dead. But we could not help also thinking about the atrocity of March, when Army staff sergeant Robert Bales murdered 17 Afghan civilians in their homes in the middle of the night. Speculations of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) hit the press even before Bales was identified as the alleged killer.
Of all the coverage since, three pieces struck us as thoughtful and perhaps worth your attention:
The common theme here, and in our sobering reflections, is the need for better diagnosis and more effective intervention to help soldiers who may suffer a lifetime with these conditions. Stay tuned to HyperbaricLink for more news on the state of the clinical evidence on hyperbaric oxygen therapy for TBI (and PTSD).
[Photo: Wikimedia]
This long weekend we, like all Americans, remembered our fallen war dead. But we could not help also thinking about the atrocity of March, when Army staff sergeant Robert Bales murdered 17 Afghan civilians in their homes in the middle of the night. Speculations of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) hit the press even before Bales was identified as the alleged killer.Of all the coverage since, three pieces struck us as thoughtful and perhaps worth your attention:
Katie Drummond, in the Danger Room at Wired, lays out some of the known and suspected connections between TBIs, PTSD, and violent episodes.
Sharon Weinberger, writing in Nature, focuses on the challenges ahead for Bates's legal team and asks: "Can a traumatic injury explain a killing spree?"
Lena Groeger, for ProPublica, finds serious doubts surrounding the $42 million Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics (ANAM), a 20-minute computer test many soldiers take before redeployment.
The common theme here, and in our sobering reflections, is the need for better diagnosis and more effective intervention to help soldiers who may suffer a lifetime with these conditions. Stay tuned to HyperbaricLink for more news on the state of the clinical evidence on hyperbaric oxygen therapy for TBI (and PTSD).
[Photo: Wikimedia]
First Look: Hennepin County Medical Center Replacement Hyperbaric Facility Set to Open in June
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The local media is buzzing about the new hyperbaric oxygen treatment center set to open in June at Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC) in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The TV spot below features a patient story that adds the human element to HCMC's long struggle to build this impressive new facility, designed and constructed by Fink Engineering. We also enjoyed last week's story in the StarTribune. Medical director Cheryl Adkinson, MD, calls the $10.9 million facility "the most advanced chamber anywhere in the world at the moment," and she's probably right.
Multibillion-dollar Losses at JPMorgan Linked to Key Executive's Struggle with Lyme Disease
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When we read "JPMorgan's $6 Billion Case of Lyme Disease" in Forbes we thought maybe it was an Onion headline. But, sure enough, bank insiders and Wall Street traders have placed part of the blame for the massive blunder on the health problems of one top executive. Ina Drew, pictured right, started missing work after she contracted Lyme disease in 2010. Apparently she played a key role in keeping the peace and refereeing shouting matches in the chief investment office, and her frequent absence threw the team into chaos.
Drew resigned earlier this month. She was the bank's fourth-highest-paid officer.
Spend one of your free visits on the fascinating New York Times article that broke the story. You may also wish to join tick and Lyme disease experts in a surprisingly informative discussion with Science Friday. More about hyperbaric oxygen therapy for Lyme disease on HyperbaricLink and in our previous blogposts.
We are told to expect an unusually active tick season after this year's mild winter. No comment about other, possibly human, pests and parasites that may spoil our summer.
[Photo: JPMorgan via Bloomberg News and New York Times]
When we read "JPMorgan's $6 Billion Case of Lyme Disease" in Forbes we thought maybe it was an Onion headline. But, sure enough, bank insiders and Wall Street traders have placed part of the blame for the massive blunder on the health problems of one top executive. Ina Drew, pictured right, started missing work after she contracted Lyme disease in 2010. Apparently she played a key role in keeping the peace and refereeing shouting matches in the chief investment office, and her frequent absence threw the team into chaos.Drew resigned earlier this month. She was the bank's fourth-highest-paid officer.
Spend one of your free visits on the fascinating New York Times article that broke the story. You may also wish to join tick and Lyme disease experts in a surprisingly informative discussion with Science Friday. More about hyperbaric oxygen therapy for Lyme disease on HyperbaricLink and in our previous blogposts.
We are told to expect an unusually active tick season after this year's mild winter. No comment about other, possibly human, pests and parasites that may spoil our summer.
[Photo: JPMorgan via Bloomberg News and New York Times]
Johns Hopkins Medicine: About as Good as Online HBOT Info Gets (and That's Not a Compliment)
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Should you somehow manage to find the Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy page, somewhere under Dermatology, in the Johns Hopkins online Health Library, you will be rewarded with a pretty okay overview. You will learn that HBOT helps wound healing, prevents "reperfusion injury" (nice), blocks harmful bacteria, strengthens the immune system, and encourages the formation of new connective tissue and skin cells. You will also get a quick history of hyperbaric medicine (why?) and blurbs about clinical indications, mechanisms, chamber types, precautions, and misuses. As one would expect, this august medical institution also takes a stand for hospital-based HBOT facilities staffed by trained and certified medical personnel.
Brilliant. Until the last paragraph, under "Misuses of HBOT":
Wrong. The doubly fatal 2009 fire at Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida, involved a 40-year-old hard chamber. The other recent fatal incident, earlier this year in Ocala, Florida, involved a large chamber used to treat horses. Portable fabric bags—we won't call them hyperbaric chambers—raise all sorts of questions about therapeutic efficacy and medical fraud and quackery, but they do not pose a "serious fire and explosion hazard" if used as intended. We feel odd defending chiropractors and bag clinics. Those are just the facts.
Last month we wrote the Johns Hopkins webmaster to correct this misinformation but have not yet received a reply.
HyperbaricLink lists the wound healing center at the Johns Hopkins Bay View Medical Center, and from there, with just a click or two, to anywhere on our website, you will find more complete and more accurate information about hyperbaric oxygen therapy. That's why we're in business.
Should you somehow manage to find the Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy page, somewhere under Dermatology, in the Johns Hopkins online Health Library, you will be rewarded with a pretty okay overview. You will learn that HBOT helps wound healing, prevents "reperfusion injury" (nice), blocks harmful bacteria, strengthens the immune system, and encourages the formation of new connective tissue and skin cells. You will also get a quick history of hyperbaric medicine (why?) and blurbs about clinical indications, mechanisms, chamber types, precautions, and misuses. As one would expect, this august medical institution also takes a stand for hospital-based HBOT facilities staffed by trained and certified medical personnel.Brilliant. Until the last paragraph, under "Misuses of HBOT":
In addition, some chiropractors and clinics use portable fabric HBOT chambers, the routine use of which, experts say, poses a serious fire and explosion hazard. Although no fire fatalities involving HBOT in a hospital setting have been reported since 1967, portable chambers have been implicated recently in several deaths after a unit caught on fire.
Wrong. The doubly fatal 2009 fire at Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida, involved a 40-year-old hard chamber. The other recent fatal incident, earlier this year in Ocala, Florida, involved a large chamber used to treat horses. Portable fabric bags—we won't call them hyperbaric chambers—raise all sorts of questions about therapeutic efficacy and medical fraud and quackery, but they do not pose a "serious fire and explosion hazard" if used as intended. We feel odd defending chiropractors and bag clinics. Those are just the facts.
Last month we wrote the Johns Hopkins webmaster to correct this misinformation but have not yet received a reply.
HyperbaricLink lists the wound healing center at the Johns Hopkins Bay View Medical Center, and from there, with just a click or two, to anywhere on our website, you will find more complete and more accurate information about hyperbaric oxygen therapy. That's why we're in business.
Monday, July 2, 2012
Alzheimer's Breakthrough Ride Journal: Ann Arbor to Cleveland
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I started my adventure at the signing event in Ann Arbor on Thursday afternoon where I was deeply moved by the story told by a young lady about her life with a 31 year old husband who had early onset Alzheimer's disease.
We started our trip early the next morning on a sunny day. Thankfully it was cool, which prompted me to wear several layers of clothing. This served me well shortly after breakfast when I had a small altercation with a rail road crossing. The result was only some mild "roads rash" and injured pride. The remainder of the day went well and I was able to enjoy the rest of the trip.
I road the 200 miles to Cleveland to find my wife Carolyn who is slipping into the fog of dementia. Her talents as a mother, wife, scientist, and doll artist are being shrouded by a thick haze, but SHE IS STILL THERE. It is up to me as her primary care giver with the help of our family, friends, and our entire community to shine some light through the haze and highlight her unique talents and thus to preserve her intrinsic value and worth, which is her humanity.
It is incumbent on all of us to seek out those who are being drawn into the murky world of dementia and to continue to highlight their uniqueness and preserve their humanity.
-Charlie Farrell, M.D., is a retired vascular surgeon with a life-long interest in participating in and promoting running and multi-sport training.
We started our trip early the next morning on a sunny day. Thankfully it was cool, which prompted me to wear several layers of clothing. This served me well shortly after breakfast when I had a small altercation with a rail road crossing. The result was only some mild "roads rash" and injured pride. The remainder of the day went well and I was able to enjoy the rest of the trip.
I road the 200 miles to Cleveland to find my wife Carolyn who is slipping into the fog of dementia. Her talents as a mother, wife, scientist, and doll artist are being shrouded by a thick haze, but SHE IS STILL THERE. It is up to me as her primary care giver with the help of our family, friends, and our entire community to shine some light through the haze and highlight her unique talents and thus to preserve her intrinsic value and worth, which is her humanity.
It is incumbent on all of us to seek out those who are being drawn into the murky world of dementia and to continue to highlight their uniqueness and preserve their humanity.
-Charlie Farrell, M.D., is a retired vascular surgeon with a life-long interest in participating in and promoting running and multi-sport training.
Alzheimer's Breakthrough Ride Journal: Ann Arbor to Cleveland Day 2
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The second day of the ride from Ann Arbor to Cleveland started similar to the first. It was a crisp, cool (52 degrees) morning as we headed out of Perrysburg towards Sandusky at 7 AM (a total of a little more than 60 miles). Although a bit warmer than the first morning, Charlie and I still had on our tights, gloves and windbreakers for the first few hours of the morning. There was also a forecast of rain for later in the day. I was feeling a bit stiff from the first days ride, but slowly loosened up over the first few miles. We had several railroad crossings that both Charlie and I had a much greater respect and appreciation for after the previous days ride.
A bit after the first rest stop, we had our first excitement of the day. As we passed a small farmhouse, a medium to large size dog, bee-lined towards my bike with teeth bared and a ferocious snarl. I instinctively sped up and swerved onto the opposite side of the road (thankfully few cars were on these roads this early on a Saturday morning). With the dog at my heels and my heart pounding, I thought about trying to kick the dog, although my shoes were firmly clipped into my pedals. Instead, I sped up even further and after an equal burst of speed from the dog, he finally retreated to the side of the road. I turned around to see if the dog had any designs on Charlie, who was only 50-100 yards behind me. Thankfully, the effort required in chasing my bike seemed to have exhausted the dog who remained on the side of the road panting. For the rest of the day I relived this episode and jumped off my bike at the sound of every barking dog…
The next 20 miles or so were into a strong head wind that both Charlie and I felt like we were slogging through even though the terrain was quite flat. After an excellent lunch on the Pony, we completed the day uneventfully and arrived into Sandusky just as the first rain drops started to fall. That night we enjoyed hamburgers at a local restaurant/bar, which was filled with Ohio State buckeye fans rooting on their team. Later that evening, we were joined by my son (Raza Lamb) and Dr. Sanjay Pimplikar, who would ride the final day from Sandusky to Cleveland with us.
The three days riding with Charlie were wonderful. We had cool days and dry, flat roads through wonderful farm country (albeit with a few too many railroad crossings and dogs!). In addition, it was inspirational to ride with a 75-year-old man who was so committed to bringing awareness to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. We talked at length about how as Americans we need to do much more to effectively integrate individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers into our families, communities and society.
The second day of the ride from Ann Arbor to Cleveland started similar to the first. It was a crisp, cool (52 degrees) morning as we headed out of Perrysburg towards Sandusky at 7 AM (a total of a little more than 60 miles). Although a bit warmer than the first morning, Charlie and I still had on our tights, gloves and windbreakers for the first few hours of the morning. There was also a forecast of rain for later in the day. I was feeling a bit stiff from the first days ride, but slowly loosened up over the first few miles. We had several railroad crossings that both Charlie and I had a much greater respect and appreciation for after the previous days ride.A bit after the first rest stop, we had our first excitement of the day. As we passed a small farmhouse, a medium to large size dog, bee-lined towards my bike with teeth bared and a ferocious snarl. I instinctively sped up and swerved onto the opposite side of the road (thankfully few cars were on these roads this early on a Saturday morning). With the dog at my heels and my heart pounding, I thought about trying to kick the dog, although my shoes were firmly clipped into my pedals. Instead, I sped up even further and after an equal burst of speed from the dog, he finally retreated to the side of the road. I turned around to see if the dog had any designs on Charlie, who was only 50-100 yards behind me. Thankfully, the effort required in chasing my bike seemed to have exhausted the dog who remained on the side of the road panting. For the rest of the day I relived this episode and jumped off my bike at the sound of every barking dog…
The next 20 miles or so were into a strong head wind that both Charlie and I felt like we were slogging through even though the terrain was quite flat. After an excellent lunch on the Pony, we completed the day uneventfully and arrived into Sandusky just as the first rain drops started to fall. That night we enjoyed hamburgers at a local restaurant/bar, which was filled with Ohio State buckeye fans rooting on their team. Later that evening, we were joined by my son (Raza Lamb) and Dr. Sanjay Pimplikar, who would ride the final day from Sandusky to Cleveland with us.
The three days riding with Charlie were wonderful. We had cool days and dry, flat roads through wonderful farm country (albeit with a few too many railroad crossings and dogs!). In addition, it was inspirational to ride with a 75-year-old man who was so committed to bringing awareness to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. We talked at length about how as Americans we need to do much more to effectively integrate individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers into our families, communities and society.
Alzheimer's Breakthrough Ride Journal: Cleveland to Pittsburgh Day 2
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First of all, I am not an Alzheimer’s Researcher. I am what was often referred to as an “other,” meaning I have a personal connection to Alzheimer’s disease. My wife is a genetics researcher and a colleague of Dr. Bruce Lamb. Bruce sent a fundraising email to my wife, she forwarded it to me thinking I would “sign the petition and donate $50.” Instead I emailed Bruce, explained my story and asked to join the team Cleveland Rocks. Boy was she surprised that evening!
On day 2, our team consisted of me, Dr. Bruce Lamb and Dr. William Lynch. Both Bruce and Bill were more experienced riders than I; I actually bought my road bike the last week of July. Not that I wasn’t active before joining the team, but I was training for a sprint triathlon, not a long distance ride. Needless to say, I began hill and endurance training immediately.
I am riding in honor of my Grandpa Darrah, who died with Alzheimer’s disease. I found that my training rides and my ride from Cleveland to Pittsburgh were spent thinking of my grandpa and grandparents in general. All of my grandparents have passed but I feel very lucky to have known them well. My grandpa Darrah was more than just a grandpa; he was also a friend and roommate. I lived with him for almost seven years, and ended up being one of his primary caregivers.
Our day 2 from Boardman, Ohio to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania was rather uneventful, except for the constant rolling hills. In some ways I am glad that Bruce and Bill were often a little ahead of me, because I was often talking or chanting to myself. I found myself saying “this is not suffering.” I remembered my grandpa’s anger and frustration as he would try to communicate his needs and wants but couldn’t. I often whispered on the toughest hills “this is only one hill” thinking grandpa and others with Alzheimer’s had years of “tough hills.” I remembered coming home one day to find my grandma’s silver flatware in the garbage, when I removed it he said “but I have a lot of that” referring to the normal silverware. It was these memories and occasional chanting that got me through the constant hills.
All of these memories and the hills made the ride a bit of an emotional rollercoaster, in addition to a physical one. Bruce and Bill were wonderful to ride with; they were supportive and helped to keep things light. The road crew of Melanie and Glen were awesome; they seemed to anticipate our every need and I always felt safe even with semis and dump trucks barreling down on me. I am a little disappointed that I never got to try the famous Peanut Butter Fold Overs…oh well, maybe in D.C. I think my favorite part was the people we met along the way either at the hotel, a rest stop or at the signing event. Their appreciation, stories and personal dedication truly made this a special experience that I will never forget.
- Michael Darrah
On day 2, our team consisted of me, Dr. Bruce Lamb and Dr. William Lynch. Both Bruce and Bill were more experienced riders than I; I actually bought my road bike the last week of July. Not that I wasn’t active before joining the team, but I was training for a sprint triathlon, not a long distance ride. Needless to say, I began hill and endurance training immediately.
I am riding in honor of my Grandpa Darrah, who died with Alzheimer’s disease. I found that my training rides and my ride from Cleveland to Pittsburgh were spent thinking of my grandpa and grandparents in general. All of my grandparents have passed but I feel very lucky to have known them well. My grandpa Darrah was more than just a grandpa; he was also a friend and roommate. I lived with him for almost seven years, and ended up being one of his primary caregivers.
Our day 2 from Boardman, Ohio to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania was rather uneventful, except for the constant rolling hills. In some ways I am glad that Bruce and Bill were often a little ahead of me, because I was often talking or chanting to myself. I found myself saying “this is not suffering.” I remembered my grandpa’s anger and frustration as he would try to communicate his needs and wants but couldn’t. I often whispered on the toughest hills “this is only one hill” thinking grandpa and others with Alzheimer’s had years of “tough hills.” I remembered coming home one day to find my grandma’s silver flatware in the garbage, when I removed it he said “but I have a lot of that” referring to the normal silverware. It was these memories and occasional chanting that got me through the constant hills.
All of these memories and the hills made the ride a bit of an emotional rollercoaster, in addition to a physical one. Bruce and Bill were wonderful to ride with; they were supportive and helped to keep things light. The road crew of Melanie and Glen were awesome; they seemed to anticipate our every need and I always felt safe even with semis and dump trucks barreling down on me. I am a little disappointed that I never got to try the famous Peanut Butter Fold Overs…oh well, maybe in D.C. I think my favorite part was the people we met along the way either at the hotel, a rest stop or at the signing event. Their appreciation, stories and personal dedication truly made this a special experience that I will never forget.
- Michael Darrah
Alzheimer's Breakthrough Ride Journal: Indianapolis to Ann Arbor
To contact us Click HERE
In light of what those who rode before us have endured, I wish I had a tale of woe to tell, but alas, this particular segment of the Alzheimer’s Breakthrough Ride was nothing shy of epic riding. We had trained for all conditions…except perfection. By the mid-afternoons, it was mostly sunny and in the low 80s. The few clouds that were present had that distinct late summer softness to their contours. If it can be imagined, it was as though Ann Huston took her paintbrush to the Midwestern sky. As a cyclist though, your eyes should be on the road, and the roads we traveled were oddly smooth - a particularly lucky happenstance given that back roads in the Midwest are often abused by winter and neglected by man. Then there was the greatest gift of all - an unceasing tail wind that nudged us along 215 out of the 289 miles. The three of us shattered our previous records, reaching speeds in excess of 35 mph on the flats. We didn’t maintain this speed; we just wanted to see what was possible, so on a perfectly smooth country road about 30 miles out of Indianapolis, we let loose for just short of a ½ mile.
As if the weather and roads weren’t gift enough, we were also graced with the company of Evan, Melanie, and Glenn – the greatest Pony Express crew ever assembled. As much pain as I may experience after 290 miles of riding, I was sad to leave them and would happily have pedaled on through the next segment just to share their company for a few more days. They have been on the road for eight weeks with at best a day or two off, and yet they managed to keep us warm, keep us fed, keep us hydrated, and to keep us laughing for four days. Perhaps needless to say, they also managed to find their way into our hearts.
It isn’t of great surprise that the people associated with this ride - such as Melanie, Evan, and Glenn - would be people of exceptional spirit. It isn’t of great surprise that those of you reading this would be people of exceptional compassion. For most of us, we are all too familiar with the pain that this disease brings. But bore of this pain, is an incredible beauty and testament to the human spirit: We now stand together in hope, in faith, and in action that we will bring an end to the heartbreak that is Alzheimer’s disease.
I am honored to stand amongst you in this effort and I wish us all an epic success.
- Angela Bruno is a neuroscience doctoral candidate at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFUMS).
In light of what those who rode before us have endured, I wish I had a tale of woe to tell, but alas, this particular segment of the Alzheimer’s Breakthrough Ride was nothing shy of epic riding. We had trained for all conditions…except perfection. By the mid-afternoons, it was mostly sunny and in the low 80s. The few clouds that were present had that distinct late summer softness to their contours. If it can be imagined, it was as though Ann Huston took her paintbrush to the Midwestern sky. As a cyclist though, your eyes should be on the road, and the roads we traveled were oddly smooth - a particularly lucky happenstance given that back roads in the Midwest are often abused by winter and neglected by man. Then there was the greatest gift of all - an unceasing tail wind that nudged us along 215 out of the 289 miles. The three of us shattered our previous records, reaching speeds in excess of 35 mph on the flats. We didn’t maintain this speed; we just wanted to see what was possible, so on a perfectly smooth country road about 30 miles out of Indianapolis, we let loose for just short of a ½ mile. As if the weather and roads weren’t gift enough, we were also graced with the company of Evan, Melanie, and Glenn – the greatest Pony Express crew ever assembled. As much pain as I may experience after 290 miles of riding, I was sad to leave them and would happily have pedaled on through the next segment just to share their company for a few more days. They have been on the road for eight weeks with at best a day or two off, and yet they managed to keep us warm, keep us fed, keep us hydrated, and to keep us laughing for four days. Perhaps needless to say, they also managed to find their way into our hearts.
It isn’t of great surprise that the people associated with this ride - such as Melanie, Evan, and Glenn - would be people of exceptional spirit. It isn’t of great surprise that those of you reading this would be people of exceptional compassion. For most of us, we are all too familiar with the pain that this disease brings. But bore of this pain, is an incredible beauty and testament to the human spirit: We now stand together in hope, in faith, and in action that we will bring an end to the heartbreak that is Alzheimer’s disease.
I am honored to stand amongst you in this effort and I wish us all an epic success.
- Angela Bruno is a neuroscience doctoral candidate at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFUMS).
World Alzheimer's Day 2010
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Today, World Alzheimer’s Day 2010, we have seen new levels of attention around the reality of Alzheimer’s disease, including the millions affected in the United States and across the globe.
More than 40 research riders in the Alzheimer’s Breakthrough RideSM arrived in Washington, D.C. to deliver the signatures of over 100,000 Americans who want Congress to make Alzheimer’s a national priority.
Alzheimer’s Disease International released the new World Alzheimer Report 2010, highlighting the growing costs of dementia care.
All week long, Alzheimer’s Association Celebrity Champions are appearing on “Who Wants to be a Millionaire” to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer research, care and support. Throughout the next few months, thousands of people across the country will duplicate their efforts by participating in local Memory Walk® events.
Despite these small victories, Alzheimer’s disease looms in a state of deepening crisis. More than five million Americans are affected by this devastating disease, a number that will only grow faster as the baby boomer generation ages. Left unchecked, the costs for Alzheimer care and services will continue to rise, straining our overwhelmed healthcare system and threatening to bankrupt Medicare and Medicaid.
Bearing these things in mind, we must remain vigilant in bringing more support to our cause:
- Use your voice and ask your representatives to support the National Alzheimer’s Project Act to provide more funding for research into Alzheimer’s treatment and an eventual cure.
- Share the message of the Alzheimer’s Association with your friends and family. Sign up to be an advocate (link) for the cause, and use your online social networks like Facebook and Twitter to generate awareness and support.
- Donate to the cause, or use Alzheimer’s Association tools to create your own fundraiser.
It is the support at of people exactly like you who have helped to make World Alzheimer’s Day 2010 such a success. And it will be people exactly like you who drive the change necessary to bring an end to Alzheimer’s disease in the future.
Thank you,
Angela Geiger, Chief Strategy Officer, Alzheimer’s Association
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Senior Exercise Program Experience
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Yesterday in class we had the opportunity to walk around the track experiencing what is like to have different disabilities.
Rope around our knees = walking slow
Cotton ball in ears = hearing loss
Vaseline covered sunglasses = glaucoma
Masks = Chronic pulmonary disorder
Rubber gloves = arthritis
Walking from the Richards Building to the Smith Field House and one lap around the track took us 30 minutes! We were so tired and refused to do another lap! We didn't like it when people found us annoying either.
Here's a peek of our experience:
Rope around our knees = walking slow
Cotton ball in ears = hearing loss
Vaseline covered sunglasses = glaucoma
Masks = Chronic pulmonary disorder
Rubber gloves = arthritis
Walking from the Richards Building to the Smith Field House and one lap around the track took us 30 minutes! We were so tired and refused to do another lap! We didn't like it when people found us annoying either.
Here's a peek of our experience:
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