Category Archives: Health

The Community Impact of These 2 Hospital Closing in Pennsylvania

Venue Marketplace

COMMUNITY IMPACT WHEN 2 HOSPITAL CLOSES IN PENNSYLVANIA

Hello Friends,

The closing of any hospital leaves a community without the needed resources they need for medical care.   The upcoming closing of  Jennersville Hospital and Brandywine Hospital impacts the workers and the community.

Never before have we ever needed hospitals to remain open than now.  With the crisis of the Pandemic and so many people affected by it,  we need to fight against hospitals closing.

It is expected that the Urgent Care  Centers of the community take up the load, but will they be able to do so?  Many patients will still need surgery, mental health care, and covid care.

Many of the patients will need to go quite a long distance to get to a hospital for care which could be a life or death matter.  The loss of jobs can affect the community also in a great way.  Being unemployed places more stress on families already struggling to survive. How will they pay rent and other expenses of living?

I wrote a letter to President Biden to see if he can do something to keep these hospitals open. There was a response of concern.  So if you could write a letter to your Congressman, Governor, Representative, and to President Biden about this urgent matter.  Hopefully,  something can be done to keep these hospitals open.

You can read the story as reported by Siafa Lewis.

2 Chester County Tower Health Hospitals Closing In Move ‘Devastating For Our Community’ – CBS Philly (cbslocal.com)

Thank you for visiting my website.

I look forward to your comments and thoughts.

by Thelma Harcum

 
WeShieldDirect.com

The Crisis In Water Safety In Benton Harbor Michigan

 

Hello Friends, Family,  and Associates,

The water crisis in Benton Harbor Michigan is an ongoing issue affecting the lives of many and that of a predominantly African-American community that is still fighting for the right to have clean water.

This article is to continue to bring light to this issue and to give support to people who need the support, Now!

Here is a link to what has been seen on a TV station if you have not already seen it.  Do give support to Rev. Edward Pinkney.   he has a Go Fund Me page.

Echoes of Flint: Lead in Benton Harbor water must be addressed right away, outraged residents say (nbcnews.com)

Thank you for visiting this page and thank you for your support.  Sharing with social media will also be of great help.  Write a letter to your congressman and write a letter to Rev. Pinkney to let him know of your support.   Give what you can to the Go Fund Me page that is up as it will help to keep the information in for forefront of this very serious issue.

I will speak more about lead poisoning and lead in water.

Truly this issue should help in President Biden wanting to pass the Infrastructure Bill to help solve this problem all around our country.

Take matters of water safety into your own hands by getting your own water tested.   There are free kits in places like Home Depot and online for you to seek to get one done.  You might want to find out what else is in your water.

Really, no one should have lead in you drinking water or any other kind of water you use on a daily basis.  If buying water, look for the bottles that have the word “spring” on the label.  Springwater is the best water for drinking from what was reported to me by herbalist and others who are researchers of healthy drinking water.

 

by Thelma Harcum


Breakfast Cereal Nutrient Enhancements and The Focus On Eating Healthier

Eating Healthy With A Focus

Breakfast On The Run Can Be Easy If You Know What’s Good For You!

There are days, that I just don’t have time to cook breakfast, but yet, it is one of the most important meals of the day.

To ensure more nutrients in your dry cereals, you can add fruit to increase the nutritional value with blueberries, peaches, bananas, and other fresh fruits.  Figs and Pears are available as well in many markets.  If you have a friend who has fruit trees, you might want to purchase from them. Some farmers let you pick your own after they have harvested most of what they want.

I bought some cooked plantains yesterday and tried them in my dry cereals this morning and how delicious it was.  With the milk or soy milk, added you are covered for at least 3 of the stable group of nutrients you need each day-whole grains, calcium, vitamin C.  Of course, you do get protein from the milk, which should be calculated in your daily requirement for protein.

You can research charts for you and your family’s daily nutritional requirements. This subject is one of the most expanded niches you can ever imagine because a diet has become a medicine for the body to function properly. That means to me, that almost everyone should have a dietitian to give advice according to your lifestyle, medical condition, metabolism, age, daily activity, and so on.  When dealing with children, it’s about what they like and doesn’t like, and so psychology and politic soon enter the arena.

Though I”m not a dietitian, as a nurse, I always have to add diet into any conversation with my patients on relatable issues of their health problems.  We are all in this together in that many of us are taking care of elderly family members, or children who have metabolism problems with their weight-be it weights gain or weight loss.

When you think of metabolism, you are thinking about how your body works, your thyroid, and your hormonal factors, your brain, and much more.

What the average person is thinking about is just eating, period.  However, as we become more educated and conscious of what foods are good for us and how much of it. We are on the path to the success of taking control of our bodies.

Now, with the pandemic, I notice that people are eating out less, and when they do eat out, they don’t give a darn and the table is full of all kinds of foods as if it’s their last meal. And what’s more damaging, is that the waitress asks if you want dessert and give you a list.  Jello and unsweetened ice cream never come up. Just to hear a Triple chocolate slice of cake, and cheesecake with whip cream, sends a message to your brain, ” I got to have that”.  It’s auto-suggestion on Speed.  Don’t do it!   Unless it’s your birthday or you’re going to take it home for a snack later and maybe share it with someone.

I knew this would happen in writing this article, in that the expansion of eating on the run, is turning into major surgery.  Like I said, It is a niche that can go places because we are what we eat and drink too!

What many of us don’t do is not moving enough, and not drinking enough of the required water.

And so if you are eating on the run, focus on your whole day. A quick grab of a meal can be good if you focus on eating healthy foods and as much plant foods as possible along with fresh fruit in your carry-on bag to wherever you are going!

So focus, focus, focus.  You are as you Think. Some of us, and I included, need to be reprogrammed in all sorts of things in our lives and it’s one day at a time and one step at a time.

Do come back to this article as I will be added some diet charts and other goodies for you to dwell on to make for a better life for you and others.  Staying in shape is never more important than now, because, with movement, you don’t give the disease a chance to get to you.  That makes me wonder why so many of the elderly in nursing homes died with this coronavirus so fast.  They don’t move fast and it’s an opportunity for disease to come in and staying inside too long is not good.  That’s my hypothesis.  What bothers me more is that these people affected, didn’t have a chance, because we were all late getting the information that there was a Pandemic here, from the beginning! My heart goes out to all families who have lost love ones.  The fight is on!

Ok, now we are gathering, thoughts of 1. fresh air, 2. drinking enough water 3. exercise 4 reprogram your thinking towards better health

We will talk more about this subject.  Do come back and let’s explore!

What can you do today to start eating healthy so that you can have available in full view more healthy foods?  The answer: Clean out your refrigerator of unhealthy foods and shop with a list of healthy foods.  Do research for what’s best for you. Talk to the professionals like your doctors, and have him or her write a referral to a dietitian that can guide you specifically to your needs.

You want to get more serious about the foods you eat, well. . . start journaling or record even on your phone, what you are going to do to improve your health and your progress.  Make it fun and share with others to perhaps get some friends together who want to also eat more healthily.

Here is a link you might want to view to see the standard values of food for men, women, and children.
https://health.gov/sites/default/files/2019-09/Appendix-E3-1-Table-A4.pdf

Do check out also the link below about Dr. Oz’s new program called The Dish on his online website.  Here, you will find many healthy dishes you can cook and enjoy.  Cooking healthy foods can be easy if you know how to be creative with them.  You can even make your own healthy snacks and learn all of the sugar substitutes you can use to cut down on sugar.

It’s all about conditioning or reprograming your taste. Your brain controls everything you do, and so it’s mind over matter.  You, in the end, make the decision for change.  Make a note of everything you eat for the day and you will be on a great start to improving your health, weight, and thinking.

The Dish: Easy & Healthy Recipes That Still Taste Good – The Dr. Oz Show (doctoroz.com)

Peace and Blessing to you all.  I’m looking for a comment from you!  Let me know that you are there, because, I am here!

by Thelma Harcum

 

 
Honeyskin

How You Can Help To Reduce The Corvid-19 Virus and Variants Numbers

What Can You Do To Fight Against The Corona-19 Virus and Its’ Variants?

Hello, Hello, All!
There’s so much going on in this world! The disasters seem to be mounting day by day;  a new story erodes that takes the attention away from the pandemic that we still face. Now there are talks of perhaps shutting down the country here in the USA in order to control this deadly virus. Thankfully, we have a vaccine and other treatments to fight it. It is not easy to know that loved ones are dying and some needless. (Let’s not forget this is a global pandemic and other countries also need to get vaccinated.  I’m thankful for the sharing of the vaccines to other countries from the USA and Other Countries sharing!)

Yes, I believe we need to do a shut down in some capacity in order to gain some control over this coronavirus.  I believe it’s out of control as many are not vaccinated against this virus and will need to get vaccinated ASAP. Truly, this is a fight for our lives. What I’m seeing are people masking up again and taking it seriously. I am so very thankful for this and hope everyone continues to hang in there, as there are more options opening each day! Science can only do but so much, but it’s up to us to all do our parts. Thank God for the Scientist who has jumped to the cause to save the lives of many.
Meanwhile, there are still many people who need to have medical care and even surgery and are putting things on hold. The hospitals are now overwhelmed, but if you are having a heart attack, you need immediate care!
What I feel is a shame is that the children have started back to school, and many schools have to go back virtual as before, because of the coronavirus breakout in the schools from several of the children. Remember, the variant is even more contagious.
You can also help in reducing the number, by keeping healthy- eating a balanced diet, fresh air, and keeping your spirits up. Your mental health is very important at this time because stress on the body does affect your immune system.
It is important to keep in touch with your family members and have discussions about this virus to compare notes and to be supportive to each other. If you have a family member who’s has gotten the corvid-19 virus or any of the variants, like the Delta virus, discuss how, they were treated, their symptoms,  any after-effects, and post-care. This documentation should be noted in all aspects of recording. That means, your doctor should know every little change in your condition as well as your immediate family. Journaling should be an almost mandatory thing to do in these times. If you know the symptoms of being infected with the coronavirus, then you know what you should do. Taking your temperature, noting any excessive tiredness, shortness of breath, are truly some of the signs you need to watch for. If you have doubts about what is happening to you when you have any of the above symptoms, get a Covid-19 test to get some answers as soon as possible and of course, start to quarantine yourself from close contact with others wear a face mask. Yes, even in the house if you need to protect others living with you.

Washing your hands as often as you need. Keeping things around you clean is important.  Anything that drops on the floor, wash it or sanitize it.  Keep your sanitizer with you at all times.  You can get small size sanitizer to keep in your purse and even place one in your child’s book bag for an older child.  Check on your child’s school policy as most schools will have PPE equipment available.   Check on your child’s school anyway and go and see what’s set up for the school as a whole as having available the PPE.   Is there enough ventilation? Are there paper towels available? Are there reminder notes in appropriate places in the school about the rules and regulations in relation to the Coronal Virus?  Is there Corona Virus testing in your school?  Are there permission slips you need to sign for your child to be tested?  Do they take everyone’s temperature before entering the school?

Also, check out the school’s policy for the return to school for a child who had tested positive for the coronavirus.  As you see, the questions go on and on as parents, teachers, and families are all concerned about being safe.

Have special trach bags or baggies to place used face masks and a separate one for a reusable face mask.

Thank you for visiting this site and well wishes to all. Yes, Yes, we will get through this together!!
So, as I end this conversation, be reminded to keep up with the news updated about the corvid virus. New government mandates and changes about the virus itself should be noted everyday as your daily read as well as your notification via radio, TV, internet and other resources. As in war, you’ve got to study the enemy and know how to win the war.

You can also have discussions with your children from time to time about the coronavirus and let them know about updates about any changes they may have.  You might limit any extended social activity your child may have with their friends.  Not all families have your viewpoint about the virus, and that could be a danger to your family if they are not taking safety precautions.   Discussions with your child can be about “how to wear your face mask”,  “how to wash your hands,”  “where to buy PPE”, ” research about the coronavirus and updates.”

Most importantly,  keep your spirits up and participate in as many fun things as you can to find your normalcy in this pandemic environment!

As always, I welcome your comments. Thank you all for doing all you can to join forces in the fight!!  Protect your lungs as this virus need oxygen, blood, and nutrients to live. CLOSE THE DOOR  by MASKING UP!  That is something that everyone can do!!

by Thelma Harcum

Keeping Positive And Coping In The Face Of A Pandemic

COPING WITH LIFE IN THE MIST OF COVID-19

Hello Readers,
I’m happy to be back after a busy spring where there have been good news and some bad news.
Five of my family members died within the last 7 months, and none of them died from covid. Cancer, Accidents, and Murder are some of the reasons for the death of these relatives. It makes you think that there is so much more to think about besides the Pandemic.
Yes, I’ve gotten 2 of my vaccines, but will they hold up for the new Delta virus. We don’t know quite, but what I do know and what has been seen lately is that you at least have some protection and if you do get covid, you won’t end up in the hospital and on a ventilator.
Many people don’t have the correct information about the vaccine and are fearful of taking it. I can understand that fear, but you don’t have many choices. Hopefully keeping up your immune system is vital. Encouraging your family, friends, and associates to get the vaccine can protect all of us.
It is a number game, but also a time game of the race to prevent people from getting and dying of this horrible virus!
We are truly all in this together and it’s good to be kind, wise, and watchful of any new updates. Masking up in large gatherings can be helpful as well as keeping your distance. Simple things like getting tested at intervals, even though you have gotten both or the one vaccine by Johnson, is actions you can do to make sure you are OK and prevent others from getting sick. The testings and vaccines are free, so get your vaccines, and encourage others to do the same.
Thank you for visiting this site and let’s keep fighting this virus until it is eradicated!
Thank God for the wisdom of Scientists and Researchers who have made living through this Pandemic with hope. We are truly thankful to the first responders and all associated who have given their lives to medically care and save others.
Your local Health Department, Primary doctor, internet, and your local state resource numbers, (In New Jersey it is 211-they also have many other informational resources) are places you can get information to make your appointments to receive the covid-19 vaccine. Many of the Drug Stores-Rite Aid, CVS, Walgreens, Urgent Care centers-are still scheduling vaccine appointments. There are Covid-19 apps you can download on your phone that will notify you of what’s new.
It takes all of us to do our parts to come out of this crisis for many people have lost love ones to this pandemic.
This Pandemic has taken a toll on many people’s lives and way of life as they knew it. Just to maintain a job and family is very difficult alone. The Pandemic has changed the way we do things in our daily lives. Good government leadership is now giving support to families and the community to assist some of the problems that this Pandemic has caused. Your planning is truly different now I’m sure. The Pandemic has made life different in many ways. Decisions in our lives are more prioritized. Especially when it comes to child care and safety for them in the home and outside of the home.

keeping several masks with you at all times and a spare for friends and family that travel with you is a good thing to do to keep prepared and safe.

Handwashing is the universal method to prevent the spread of germs. Twenty seconds is the suggested amount of time to wash hands. Know the symptoms of covid and follow up on any of the symptoms. Seek help as soon as possible If you have any of the symptoms of Covid-19!
Covid-19 has a wide range of symptoms. From mild to severe.
Some of the symptoms of Covid-19 are:
* Fever or chills
* Cough
* Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
* Fatigue
* Muscle or Body Aches
* Headache
* New loss of taste or smell
* Sore throat
* Congestion or runny nose
* Nausea or vomiting
* Diarrhea
If you have any of these symptoms below, get Emergency care ASAP:
* Trouble Breathing
* Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
* New confusion
* Inability to wake or stay awake
* Pale, gray or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds, depending on skin tone
LEARN MORE ON: www.cdc.gov

by, Thelma Harcum

Being Mindful In The Mist Of Corona Virus Attack

Health safety

Hello all,

My heart go out to all of those affected by the Corona Virus attack. No one really saw this coming in the way that it came and spread globally. I am thankful for all who are working hard to fight against this virus and save lives-and that is all of those following the rules of staying home, masking, and all of the other safety measures such as washing, hands, coughing in your elbow area or tissues, distancing at lease 6 ft, and not gathering in groups socially.

This article is piggyback on what is already set up as safety measures. These suggestions are my own and not an official mandate. we all have ideas and opinions and if you have any to add, do leave a comment.

  1. Keep your mouth and nose as clean as possible along with covering with a clean mask. Wash your mask at the end of the day and you might want to carry 2 with you at all times. Keep plastic bag with you for the soil mask.
  2. I suggest rinsing your mouth twice a day with an antiseptic or mouthwash and blowing your nose in tissues when you feel you need to clear of any dry secretions
  3. Start bringing your coffee to work instead of stopping by a store for it. This will prevent you from being exposed too much to other people. Wear your mask or any covering of mouth and nose if you do go shopping and outside anywhere. This virus is in the air, so really, we should have all been wearing a mask all the time in the first alert of this pandemic virus.
  4. When planning your shopping, try to cover all the areas of shops you need to visit so as to make too many trips and get more exposure. Some families have designated shoppers to do shopping for the whole family.
  5. Look out for others when you can when you see the need to help. I keep cans of food in my trunk just in case I see someone speaking or appearing to need food. You can share your knowledge of resources where people can get food and other necessities.
  6. Families might want to share times of cooking meals once a week or more so you don’t have to cook every day. You can drop it off instead of going into the house. It could be money-saving as well.
  7. Greeting to one another can be Japanese style-bending from the waist down, elbowing, foot touching, and by video-face-timing, skype, and other tech ways.
  8. You might want to make your own cloth mask. Youtube and Pinterest have many videos on how to make protective facial masks. I’m starting today to make a few for myself, family, and friends; hopefully, I can have the time to make extras for people I see here and there.
  9. By all means, keep up with the updates from the scientist and medical department on your TV and other Media channels of what you need to know.
  10. For those lottery players out there, you might want to play for the whole week your numbers so that you don’t have to go out every day to play. This will keep you from having less exposure.
  11. As much as we hate to do, start checking your life insurance as this virus can hit anyone at any time. Hopefully, you will recover from it if it does. So stay healthy and keep moving around.
  12. Don’t stay isolate: Call friends, neighbors, and family when you have the need to talk to someone. If you are having a mental health issue, reach out to the hospitals and mental health offices/ hotlines to seek help. You are not alone, and truly, these are trying times.

Thank you for visiting this page. We will get through this together. Stay hopeful, faithful and strong. Stay updated on the news from reliable sources and keep the focus on the fight for survival.

Also, remember, that the COVID-19 is not anyone’s fault as it is a virus that happened to jump from animals to humans. All people with this virus should not be discriminated against in any way, but to be treated with the utmost respect. It could happen to anyone-it could happen to you! Please report anyone who mistreats anyone with this virus as I have been hearing about personnel acting out of character against persons with this virus who happen to arrive at the hospital with symptoms- on the other side, all citizens must follow directions if you have symptoms and follow the rules (there might be another location the present hospital want you to go to instead as COVID-19 centers are set up at various locations. Call 911 if you are having difficulty breathing so that you can get immediate help. Do what you can to save your Life!

Thelma Harcum, Writer, Nurse

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