Wednesday, September 25, 2013

Multiple Myeloma Awareness - Be Informed!


Did you know that it's Multiple Myeloma Awareness Month. Have you ever heard of Multiple Myeloma? Well, Multiple Myeloma is a rare form of cancer that sneaks in the attack on the bones, ribs organs and spine. Unfortunately due to the easily explained pains that may be dismissed as getting older, or needing to modify exercise or daily activities. Sadly, I have lost a great loved one, my father in law to Multiple Myeloma. However, in his honor, it is very important to keep the awareness alive, not only this month but for the daily awareness as there are patients/families who are facing this diagnosis throughout the year.

Be informed - take notes and be sure to share this blog with everyone you know. This may help make a difference in the life of someone who may be able to discuss the symptoms and ask the appropriate questions.

Hear from the experts at Mayo Clinic







Wednesday, September 18, 2013

How About A Run? :-)

♪♪ And I know it's gonna be ♪♪a lovely daaaaaaaaaaaaaay♪♪♪


Have you ever had a day where you are driving and all of the lights are in your favor - green light all the way? Well, this morning was one of those mornings for me. This week was set off to a challenging start and I was determined to face them head on. Each morning starts with meditation and prayer then I head off for a run. Running covers everything for me, although sometimes I run at a snails pace, I run. However, this week, I decided to pick up the pace and run for the hills.

Todays run was extra special. There were the smiles and greetings of the morning from people going for walks and the cheers of other runners as I made my way through the four mile trek. It seemed as though they were stationed at certain points of my route.

The hills were symbolic, they represent the challenges. I picked up the pace and ran up the very steep hills while releasing my concerns and doing my mantra. By the time my run ended, instead of feeling relieved, I felt energized. I picked up the kettle bell to asist with my squats, jumped rope and planked :-) All showered, dressed and getting to the tasks of the day.

So what good is a run without a healthy follow up??? I made a salad, had a glass of water and now I'm ready to enjoy the other perks of my day. It's already off to a great start.

♪♪ And I know it's gonna be ♪♪a lovely daaaaaaaaaaaaaay♪♪♪


While I encourage you to go for a run, jog or walk - be sure to consult with your doctor.


Thursday, September 12, 2013

A Secret Life - Hiding In Plain Sight



Did you know that people can put on a happy face yet once alone, they can slip easily into a state of depression. Depression can hold someone hostage as they try to deal with the challenges of life. While some people are able to work through the challenges, there are others who become overwhelmed with the constant struggles of what they determine is too much to handle. It happens. You have no idea what someone is going through. In fact, you may hear the family and friends who are in shock as they face the sudden death of a loved one who they thought was doing great. You may even hear someone say, if I had his/her kind of money/fame, I would be so happy. What we do not know, is the private hurt or internal suffering that they may be facing.

Recently, young actor Lee Thompson Young committed suicide. He had a great reputation of being a clean cut guy. He did not take part in the popular celebrity lifestyle of drugs or alcohol. The news of his suicide was unexpected by those who knew him well, including the cast and crew of the series where he shared a starring role.

"Everyone at 'Rizzoli & Isles' is devastated by the news of the passing of Lee Thompson Young. We are beyond heartbroken at the loss of this sweet, gentle, good-hearted, intelligent man," TNT, Warner Bros. and executive producer Janet Tamaro said in a joint statement.
"He was truly a member of our family. Lee will be cherished and remembered by all who knew and loved him, both on- and off-screen, for his positive energy, infectious smile and soulful grace. We send our deepest condolences and thoughts to his family, to his friends and, most especially, to his beloved mother," the statement said.

And his mother who friends said that he shared a close bond with said - "We're all just in total shock," his mom, Velma Love.

Depressed people may be the life of the party or they can be quite engaging. Keep in mind, some people who are depressed may not want anyone to think that they are ill, sick, weak, lack self esteem and the other negative terms attached with depression. Unfortunately, in some cases, the depression can become so overwhelming that one becomes so hopeless and they feel that there is no other choice but to escape life. Rapper Freddy E had a dramatic end with tweets to his followers.


The 22 year old rapper Freddy E's suicide was also a shock to his family, friends and fans. Here's a post shared by his parents


If you or someone you know is depressed, please seek help. Whether you pray, meditate, seek counseling or other professional help - take control and do something. As you can see, sometimes not even the glitz, glam and screaming fans can save one from depression.