Why Covid Rules are Useless

 #1 - one way aisles in stores

Ask yourself what difference it makes if we are all going the same direction in an aisle — or opposite directions. If you’re breathing, your “droplets” are in the air regardless. It makes them no less dangerous for me to breathe them in coming from behind you, than it does if I’m in front of you. 

#2 - masks

While they absolutely slow the droplets being expelled to the front of your body, they do nothing to prevent the escape to the side and into your eyes. Also, many mask wearers are constantly fiddling with them. Lowering them. Raising them. Hanging them under their noses. Wearing them about their chins. Putting them back over their noses. Now. If covid can live on surfaces up to 72 hours, and you’ve just touched multiple contaminated surfaces — and then your face, what have you just done? Potentially infected yourself. Without the mask, you certainly wouldn’t have been touching your face as often. 

Also, there are bacterial diseases caused by mask wearing — particularly if you wear them too long without changing them or not washing them frequently enough.  Legionnaires is one.

Plus, the majority of these disposable masks come from the country that infected the world to begin with. Oh, and let’s not forget how much more we are impacting the environment with these  

#3 - closures and crowd restrictions

If social distancing works, we should be quite all right hanging out with one another with the appropriate distance between us, but, no, we are all gonna die if there’s more than 50-100 in the same room.

And WHY did we close small businesses down but Walmart, Costco, Canadian Tire, Rona, and Home Depot got to remain open? Now, the topic is how poor the economy is. Yes. Yes, it is. Trudeau intentionally destroyed the economy — particularly small business — but is happily throwing covid money around like its candy. I think the majority of Canadians would’ve preferred to keep the economy going through this virus, rather than having to depend on government hand outs.

#4 - the paranoia

Seriously. Why the extreme paranoia?  The panic buying at the beginning. The glove phase. The masks. The staying away from our loved ones cuz you might kill grandma. What’s the best way to slow a virus??? Oh, right. Wash your hands. Don’t touch your face. They must have an entrance to the body, and this is most often through mucous membranes.

We’ve been dealing with many viruses over the centuries. Some more deadly than others. Covid is no different than influenza. This family of viruses also kills thousands every year, despite having a vaccine. On top of which, I think far more have had covid BEFORE it was a big deal. Most recovered with no medical intervention whatsoever, but certainly felt worse than with other illnesses.  

The main cause of paranoia with covid? The media and governments won’t shut up about it. And every death is contributed to covid — although 94% of “covid” deaths had an average of 2.5 co-morbidities. Meaning, 2.5 other illnesses that also contributed to that individual’s demise. (Why don’t we have these stats available in Canada?) 

At the end of these restrictions, what will be left? Massive amounts of depression because of forced separation. Ramped up bullying. Anxiety. Germaphobia. Domestic violence. Societal crime. Broken homes due to financial stress. More addiction. More business destroyed. Billions of dollars in federal debt. 

All for what? To “prevent” a virus that will continue to circulate until the human population has achieved some modicum of immunity. Although, the experts say this isn’t possible, while madly attempting to create a vaccine to help us achieve immunity. 

Unfortunately, covid simply feels like a worldwide social experiment to see who is willing to comply vs who will not because they see through the bullshit. 

So. Settle down. Wash your hands. Keep ‘em off your face. But, for gods sakes’, please get busy living instead of trying not to die — cuz we’re all gonna die. It’s the circle of life. 

Subjects I’m Sick of Hearing About

Climate change. Gender equality. The evils of natural gas and oil.

Climate change:

Is it real? Absolutely. Is it due to people? I don’t believe it is. Why? The climate has been changing since the earth has existed. There’s been other ice ages. There’s been other warm ages. These eras happened long before people were so plentiful. Long before current living standards with all the pollutants belching forth to keep us warm. So, yes, climate change is real but should not be used as a political reason to tax.

It is extremely arrogant to assume humans have any effect on what Mother Nature is doing or has done. It is even more arrogant to think we can control these changes. The reality is, the only thing we can control is cleaning up after ourselves in this over-the-top throwaway society.

Gender equality:

I don’t know about you, but I find it insulting to all women that some employers feel it necessary to put a woman in a position of authority to keep their company “gender balanced”. Did I earn the position? Am I qualified? Or did I get it just cuz I’m a girl? Because that’s insulting if it’s the reason any woman is able to climb the ladder. Most of us want to be recognized by merit, not a give-me.

The evils of oil and natural gas:

The rhetoric is always the same. We need renewable energy. Why? Oil and gas is baaaad. What are renewables? Wind and solar are the two most popular answers. So. What are solar panels made with? What is used to store the energy from these panels? Silicone and lithium batteries, respectively. Is lithium renewable? How is it harvested? What about silicone? What is it’s main product? What is their life span? (Longer than a windmill, but I don’t know the exact length.) What are the main products used to make windmills? Is steel a renewable resources? How is it harvested? What is the life span of a windmill? (A mere 25 years.) Not to mention the many health concerns people have living near a wind farm. Why aren’t more people asking these questions?  Why do people so blindly follow popular bandwagons?

Also, the two provinces most virulently opposing oil & gas transportation are also dumping raw sewage into the very waters they claim to want to protect. Why isn’t there an uproar about this blatant — and highly unnecessary — pollution that can cause multitudes of disease and damage to water ecosystems?

No one ever considers without the current monetary benefits from oil and gas, our country would not be so well funded with social programs, like health care or education. Nor do they consider what would happen to our quality of life if we simply shut this industry down because of hypocritical activists. Canada’s oil and gas sector has some of the highest regulations in the world that help protect our environment while harvesting a very necessary product.

So I wish everyone would sit down, shut up and use their damned heads for 5 minutes on all three subjects to think it through — from every angle. But for gods’ sakes, quit believing all the media hype.

To Immunize or Not to Immunize

Recently, Alberta decided not to force vaccines on everyone. I agree with this decision.  Why? No law should ever be put in place to force anyone to put something in their bodies they don’t want there.

Before we go any further, I believe most vaccines are meant to protect us. Most have very good prevention rates, such as MMR, whooping cough, meningitis, chicken pox, etc. The only real exception, in my mind, is the flu shot.  This vaccine is literally a guessing game when developed, based on the 5-6 most popular strains from areas that have winter before North America. It has also been proven that the flu virus mutates every 6 weeks, meaning the vaccine used may offer very little protection against any new, mutated strains. This is why some years the flu shot works well; some years it doesn’t.

Lots of people say we must also rely on something known as “herd immunity” with approximately 95% of the population needing to be vaccinated for this to happen.  Canada’s immunization rates are between 77% and 89%, depending on the province.  Now, if you do a bit of research, you’ll find that perhaps this isn’t as truthful as we’ve all been led to believe.  Here’s a link for one such article:  https://childrenshealthdefense.org/news/herd-immunity-a-false-rationale-for-vaccine-mandates/.

The popular mentality to herd immunization is that we protect the vulnerable — those with immune deficiencies or those unable to receive vaccines due to other health issues.  This is where this conversation always goes downhill.  Swiftly and with absolute rudeness.  I get it. We all want to believe our loved ones are safe because everyone else has been vaccinated when they cannot be.

However, there’s something we often forget.  There are many different viruses that we are not vaccinated for.  We have the potential to contract these every time we leave our homes.  Particularly those with compromised immune systems. My question is this: how do we protect against these? Do we invest a ton of money into research for a vaccine for every possible harmful virus and bacteria? Do we freak out about these every day threats?  No. We don’t. We choose to practice good hygiene. Or perhaps, we choose to stay home more to avoid seasons where viruses spread more quickly.

The other mentality that seriously irritates me with this entire conversation is the people who vaccinate themselves and their kids are often the ones freaking out the most. Which begs the question, do you not trust the vaccine? Because if you do, you need to chill out and mind your own business.  If you don’t trust the vaccine, then by all means, freak out.  🤷‍♀️

There’s also a popular misconception that those who choose not to vaccinate are doing so based on Jenny McCarthy’s claim that MMR is the cause of autism. I have asked several anti-vaxers their reasoning. Their reasons are often well-thought out, not based on whimsy and simply following along with celebrity opinions.  I have to respect this.  Why? It’s not my life. Not my body.  Not my choice.

There are also increasing vaccine related injuries, with some pretty horrific results. These ARE few and far between, but I do believe we deserve to know all possibilities before choosing what to put in our bodies.  The medical community is absolute shit about educating us on side-effects of pretty much every drug out there. So wrong.

And really, that’s what this entire conversation boils down to.  Choice.  We all think differently. We reason differently based on facts.  We all know the risks of not vaccinating.  We need to know more about side effects related to vaccines. Seriously. Start questioning doctors, nurses and pharmacists more. Our society has become far too dependent on drugs of all manner to “cure” us.

The next time this conversation comes up, be respectful. You don’t get to tell other people what to put in their bodies.  Period.

Destroying History??

First of all, I haven't been following this story very closely and am sure I'm lacking on the nitty-gritty details.  I'm thoroughly disgusted by people in the US who willfully destroyed a confederate statue this week, in response to a white nationalist rally in another area where a woman died.  How is this in any way a justification???  Isn't there law enforcement dealing with it?  Wasn't someone arrested?  Do you extremists feel better now or you have something else to destroy because there wasn't "enough" done?

I've wondered for ages how destroying a statue changes -- or rewrites -- history...  That's a seriously twisted corner of a person's mind to think destroying the symbol erases the history.  Honestly, I think it creates more hatred from one side to the other.  What happened historically, still happened.  There was still slavery, and that fact is still in every damn history book available.  The past cannot be changed.  What can be changed is our present and future.  Unless we continue this bullshit mindset of "us against them".

To me, an extremist is an extremist.  Whether they are a "white nationalist" or "antifa".  You all need to learn to play nicer in the middle of the sandbox because neither of your mindsets is right.  Let the past go. Learn from it, yes, but MOVE FORWARD and please.  Quit behaving like spoiled children who haven't gotten their way.

Refugee or Not to Refugee

I think we've all seen the comparison of Middle Eastern refugees:  "if you knew 3 candies out of 100 were poisonous, would you take a handful?"  Valid point.

Many have also seen the counter argument:  "I'd take several handfuls if meant saving a few people from a worn torn region".  Also a valid point.

Realistically, both of these examples are false.  Here's why:  Three poison candies will realistically kill only three people -- unless you somehow managed to get all 3 in your handful.

Three extremists have the capability to kill many.  Paris.  Brussels.  Orlando.

There really is only one solution:  end the war -- by whatever means -- that will bring a long-lasting peace to that constantly war-torn region.  Don't spread the war by spreading the people.

Type 1 Diabetes Parents DO Understand

As the parent of a type 1 diabetic teenager, life gets tough.  Often.  This damned disease throws a kink into every aspect of her life, and it radiates outward from there.  She has to think about every morsel of food that goes into her mouth.  It makes her think about testing every time she feels gross.  It makes her worry that she's going to drop low during exercise -- or when she sleeps and might not feel it.  It causes extra issues in the parent/kid relationship that would not be there if this disease hadn't come into our lives.

So is it any wonder our teens sometimes say "fuck it" and don't do what they need to do in order to stay healthy???

There's days I'm sick to death of dealing with this disease -- and it's not even my body going through the ups and downs.

Unfortunately, a quote from a type 1 in her early twenties, irritated me.  It was:  "you can't understand, but I do.  Sometimes we just don't want to be diabetic."  Sweetheart, you are so wrong if you think a parent doesn't understand much of what you go through.

My girly was 9 at diagnosis.  She may not have fully understood the ramifications of having this disease then.  Sometimes, I don't think she does, even now.  She didn't understand how to care for it, make calculations for insulin with her meals, or how to make adjustments to basal insulin.  She got to be a kid and this is the weight I carried and still do.  Now, to me, the "mechanics", if you will, is the easy part of this disease.  The emotional part??  Now that shit's hard.

I remember my daughter being afraid to come home from the hospital because she thought we couldn't care for her.  I held her while she cried because she had to have her sweet, little fingers poked 4+ times a day.  Occasionally, at the beginning, I had to hold her down while I gave insulin injections -- again, 4+ times a day (thank goodness for insulin pumps that minimize this).  Cried in the bathroom when she began to resign herself to all the poking needed to keep her alive and healthy.  Came home and was sick every morning for a month after taking her to school.  Helped her when she was low.  Made calculations to correct a high.  Tested every two hours -- day and night -- during regular illnesses to keep blood sugar in check.  Held her hair while she vomited violently from ketones, due to illness or a failed infusion site.  Force fed her sugar during a stomach flu because her blood glucose was dropping.  Have had to kick her ass multiple times to test, count her carbs correctly, deliver insulin through her pump.  To please look after yourself so this damned disease doesn't win.

I'm here to tell you that the ONLY thing I don't understand is what it FEELS like to have this disease.  I don't know what it feels like to have my blood sugar drop like a stone.  I don't know what it feels like to have sky-high sugars that just will not respond to insulin.  I don't know what ketones feel like.  I don't know what it feels like to have to poke my fingers multiple times a day.  I can tell you, though, I'd take this fucking disease into my body so she didn't have to deal with it.  And I'd do it in a heartbeat, without a thought, because no child should have to realize at 9 years of age that they are NOT invincible.  They shouldn't have to carry the weight of a chronic disease.

So, yes, parents of type 1 diabetics UNDERSTAND that some days you just don't want to be diabetic any more.  We don't want you to be either.

#typeonediabetes

Thoughts of the Day

The idea that every child "deserves" to participate in a sport of their choosing is a bit ludicrous.  Wonder where their sense of entitlement comes from with constant ads regarding this???  Every child used to participate -- in street hockey, soccer in an empty field, baseball with no diamond, skating on an outdoor rink -- for hours.  Never had to pay a dime to participate in these activities.

All the "progressive" people out there supporting a transgender person's "right" to use a public restroom of the sex they identify with (not biologically are and look like) -- never ONCE considered they are stomping all over the rights of the majority who simply want a bit of privacy when our pants are down.

All the "bigots" out there who denounce a religion rooted in hate and violence -- hat's off to you.  You are not a bigot or a racist simply because your eyes are open to the evil buried within Islam.  Bigots and racists are the people forcing everyone to accept this violent religion -- and the people embroiled in it -- by simple bullying tactics.

Emotional voting is the devil's advocate.  Justin Tru-doh.  Nutley.  Need I say more???  With every political party's platform at your finger tips via the internet, read it.  Carefully.  Make an informed decision not "I just want so-and-so out".  Oh, and when a Jr. comes along, don't vote for them.  Usually doesn't go well.  JT and his daddy -- the latter still happily dividing Eastern and Western Canada from his grave.

All politicians should have a 3 month trial period for their jobs.  Can't do it???  Out you go.

Unions are past their usefulness.  Abolish them.  Maybe then the cost of health care and education would go down significantly.  Not to mention other public sector areas that are part of a union.  Plus, it would be easier to fire the people who aren't doing their jobs well.

Last, but not least, if you immigrate to our country, don't expect the rules to change to suit your needs.  You have the same rights as I do.  Don't be a jerk and demand more because you "feel" discriminated against.  Heck, my ancestors would eat you whiny pricks for breakfast.  They helped settle this beautiful, wild country and built it into a desirable place for your entitled ass.  Go ahead and wear your religious headgear -- just not at a traditional ceremony that requires its removal.  Also, since we were kind enough to take you in, pay your way here and continue to pay your way -- while our own do without food, clothing and shelter -- I think you can get off your lazy butt and go where the government places you and start contributing.  Don't want to?  I'm sure the refugee camp you just came from will take you back.

Gender Neutrality

Seriously?  What does this expression even mean?  Gay people are still male or female.  Straight people are male or female.  Trans people have biological male or female parts.  The only people exempt from this classification of male/female are hermaphrodites.  In our quest for inclusion of all has our sexual identity become "it", rather than the sex we were born with?  Isn't that what neutral implies?

I'm not against homosexuality.  I understand how you could be attracted to the same sex as yourself. Transgender?  This one I don't understand - not that I'll be an asshole simply because you're different.  I do my damnedest to treat all people with respect.  However, no matter how much I read about this issue, transgender seems to be more of a psychological confusion than an actual identity with the opposite sex.  Bruce Jenner.  Need I say more???

That brings me to the current hot topic in Alberta -- the need our ridiculous NDP government feels to force everyone to accept boys and girls changing and using the washroom together based on gender identity.  Do I understand the premise for this policy is inclusion?  Yep.  Do I agree every child should feel included?  Yep.  However, I think we can all agree we are born male or female.

This policy also states students and staff must use "gender neutral" pronouns when addressing people.  Mr. and Mrs. will no longer be acceptable if said person doesn't think he/she is a he/she.  If a teacher has gender identity issues, "Hey, You, I need help!" is acceptable and respectful?  I don't think so.  But, hey, what does a backwards thinking person like me know?

It will also become acceptable for that boy - who thinks he's a girl today (trans fluid) - to come into the change room with your daughters and strip down.  Most people are more sexually open than generations past, however, this is a very uncomfortable situation for teenage girls who identify as girls.  According to this policy, my daughter must be the one to leave the room if she's uncomfortable.  Self-induced exclusion is still exclusion.  Explain this:  if each and every girl leaves the change room because one boy -- who identifies as a girl -- decides to change with them, how will this person feel?  Probably more excluded than they did before this policy was put into play, and they were the ones using a separate change area.  Better or worse psychologically?  I'd say far worse.

With this policy, we've also just opened the door for blatant sexual harassment to occur at older grade levels.  Teens are very bold.  To realistically think the boys won't go into the girls wash/change room simply to sneak a peek as a practical joke -- or vice versa -- is naive in the extreme.  They merely have to claim they are unsure of the sex they identify with; therefore, they have the to right to go into this change room.  Zero repercussions.  Is this what we want?  Sexually disrespectful kids?  We often spout about the lack of respect in society's younger crowd.  This policy will create more...

I also believe it will cause confusion for younger children who simply cannot understand this type of difference.  I can hear a child in grade two coming home now, "Mommy, lil Jill peed in our bathroom today, and she came out of the stall with her penis showing.  Teacher says he identifies as a girl but he has a penis.  Am I a boy now???"

The policy states over and over that schools must keep each child safe and comfortable while implementing it.  That each child has the "right" to feel safe and comfortable in the school environment.  When a child simply has to identify with the sex opposite of their biological sex --  without having had medical/psychological or parental help first -- there is no way this will protect anyone's child.  There really is only one solution to inclusion for this type of issue:  individual washrooms and change rooms, such as the ones we have at home.

Personally, this policy completely stomps on each and every child's right to privacy and throws society back into the stone age.  Enter the Jian Gomeshi's of the world...

Keep Canada Safe

My heart breaks for the people in Paris suffering so much loss and terror last night.  Words cannot express.

However, the rest of us need to start getting serious about protecting our own countries.  No doubt there are many cells of these extremists already hiding on our soil, as some have probably been born here.  It is an absolute shame these Canadians have been brainwashed to believe in a fanatical and maniacal so-called religion.  It's why I regularly say organized religions are evil.  Throughout history, many wars have been started in the name of religion.  It's time this stopped.

I also don't understand how our own Prime Minister can promote bringing more migrants into our country -- with similar beliefs to these ISIS extremists -- in the name of kindness.  I don't think he's watching the world.  I don't think he's studied history.  The purpose of studying history is to prevent further world atrocities, is it not?

Why are there so many men and such few women and children escaping Syria?  Why isn't the media showing the chaos in Sweden -- caused by Islamic people living there -- burning vehicles, attacking emergency workers, etc?  Why doesn't the media show the Islamic people in Paris attacking complete strangers on the streets?  Is he blind to the implications of these migrants attacking closed borders in Europe -- destroying their tents, clothing and food?  Does Trudeau not see this?  Does he not question this?  Is this what we want here - war, chaos and terror?  Have we learned NOTHING from history?  The peaceful majority were over run by a mere 7% of Nazi believers.  Look at the atrocities that came from 7% of the people. 

Oh, I know what Liberal-minded voters will say.  That I'm fear-mongering.  Racist.  Hateful.  That's why they voted Stephen Harper out.  There was too much common sense coming out of his mouth.  I am none of those labels.  I also believe there are some very genuine refugees leaving Syria.  I believe there are some good people in the Islamic/Muslim faith -- people who believe in peace and understand the freedom of choice.  If you truly  want to help the refugees:  Stop the war.  Stop ISIS.  We can't stop them by pulling military support out, as Trudeau has done.

Trudeau wants to hug them, love them, give them all of our hard-earned money to support them.  What about our homeless?  Elderly?  Poverty stricken families with barely enough to feed, clothe and house their children?  What about those with serious medical conditions who must travel to receive the appropriate care?  What about them?  Trudeau needs to help our own first.

Now, answer this question:  do you honestly want this type of violence on our soil? 

That question is why I don't agree with bringing more middle-eastern migrants into our country.  I think we will be inviting civil war here.  There are too many able-bodied men "escaping" -- without their women and children.  To me, that screams infiltration.  Why aren't these able-bodied men fighting against ISIS to save their own country?  For the numbers leaving, they could have helped overthrow the caliphate by now.  They could be living in peace and rebuilding their own country.  Why aren't they?  Cowards?  Definitely.  Hidden agenda?  Maybe.

Think about this:  if civil war were to come to our soil, who do you most want to protect?  Can you protect your family, friends, country?  Do you have weapons -- and know how to use them?  It's pretty hard to protect yourself from a maniacal moron with a bomb strapped to his or her chest. 

I have a daughter whom I would not be able to protect from her own body, should we have war on this soil, with no more medications being produced and no power.  I can't stock-pile insulin.  It has an expiry date.  Not to mention, if it gets too warm or too cold, it isn't effective.  She's one of many with similar medical issues.  Have any of you thought of that when inviting potential terrorists to our soil?  Bet you haven't.

The best way to help these migrants, is to keep our western countries safe.  For the entire world to arm themselves and go kick ISIS ass. 

Trudeau needs to man up and protect the country he was voted in to lead.  His first priority are the citizens of Canada.  Somehow, watching his lame little speech last night, I doubt he has the capability.

Please.  Keep Canada safe.  Quit inviting potential terrorism here.  Help the migrants by ending the war in their country so they can go home and rebuild.

Tax Off

Know what I'm tired of?  Large health organizations and health professionals who do expensive studies -- only to tell us that if we tax "XYZ", it will prevent people from doing "XYZ" so we'll have a healthier population.

My latest issue is with the Canadian Diabetes Association (CDA).  They want all of us to make their little campaign an election issue.  Why?  Not really sure, since one of the issues they want the government to "change" is already in place and fairly easy to access.  Let me explain.

The first on their agenda is they want the government to put a tax on "sugary" beverages, in an effort to prevent Type 2 Diabetes.   If you look at their definition of a "sugary drink", it is to include non-diet pop, sweetened iced teas, sports drinks, energy drinks, fruit flavoured drinks (such as fruit punch or vitamin waters) and blended coffee drinks.

Now, I think we would all agree that basically everything on the shelf has exorbitant amounts of added sugar (or carbs that your body converts to sugar).  For example:  a medium-sized orange has approximately 15 g of carb (sugar).  A glass of OJ (pretty much any brand) has approximately 30 g of carb (sugar) per cup.  By the definition of "sugary", I'd assume OJ is going to fall in that category -- and if not, it damn well should.

Why do I think this is the wrong approach???  Look at the crazy taxes on cigarettes.  Yet, thousands and thousands of people still smoke.  Basically, this analogy prevents nothing.  People know very well smoking is bad for them.  They know consuming too much sugar is also bad for them.  You cannot control with taxation.  People still do what they choose to do, regardless of having to pay more.

My next question is this:  will all the tax money generated from sugary beverages go directly to our health care system to help fund medications, insulin pumps, CGM's, education, etc. for those with diabetes?  Not likely --  but that's exactly where the money should go. 

The other reason I disagree with this tax is my Type 1 daughter needs fast-acting sugar to correct lows; and, basically, that's every drink the CDA wants taxed.  Not to mention, in times of illness, we use sports drinks (regular and diet) to help keep her hydrated.  Sorry,  CDA, but sometimes diabetics need these beverages so they don't die.  Now you expect every insulin-dependent diabetic to pay more for the drinks they need???  Low blood sugars are unpredictable.

Diabetics pay enough.  Without insurance, supplies for a Type 1 average $600/month with insulin pump therapy.  This cost doesn't include emergency supplies, such as juice boxes.  Let's not add to that expense.  Please.

Next, they want to see changes to the Disability Tax Credit to include people with Type 1 Diabetes.  Hate to break it to the CDA, but they are a few steps behind the times.  We have been receiving this Tax Credit for my daughter for 2 1/2 years out of her 4 1/2 years with this disease -- and were back-paid to the date of her diagnoses.  The only area with the application that is somewhat tricky, is proving you spend approximately 14 hours per week managing the disease.  I was lucky enough to be part of an online support group with one of the members being a very active advocate.  Just go to her page www.diabetesadvocacy.com, under the "Disability Tax Credit" tab and you will find the detailed information you need to qualify.

Their final -- and only item I agree with -- is to provide financial aide for diabetics in regards to their medication.  Some provinces have programs for pump supplies but not funding in place for those without insurance or no insulin pump.  Diabetes is a costly disease.

However, these next issues also need to be addressed immediately.  Funding for earlier screening needs to be provided -- as this is one reason many with Type 2 have significant side-effects caused by the disease, such as heart problems, kidney failure, nerve damage and blindness.  A recent report I read stated many Type 2's have had the disease go undetected for approximately 10 years.  We need to improve this.

There should also be better education for Type 2's and continuous support for both Type 1's and 2's.  I've spoken to many Type 2's who have zero clue what to watch for with their diets, eg. carbs or how to match their meds to their food.  For the insulin dependent Type 2, they have no clue how their long-acting and short-acting insulin works -- or which to adjust if their numbers are high.  Heck, many don't even understand what basal insulin vs. bolus insulin is.  Without this knowledge, it is virtually impossible to improve -- or maintain -- the status of your health.

Also, there is a huge stigma placed on people with Type 2 that they caused their disease.  That they should have been able to prevent it.  In the case of those with genetic pre-dispositions, people often have done everything right -- yet are still diagnosed with Type 2.  It's completely unfair to put this stigma on anyone with any disease.  It makes it harder -- mentally and emotionally -- to manage.  Therefore, the public should be properly educated to prevent this stigma.

I believe these are the true underlying reason diabetes is reaching epidemic proportions and putting such a huge strain on our health care.  Proper education truly needs to be addressed.

Maybe the CDA could change their campaign to include these issues and remove the redundancy of taxation.  Let's educate, rather than make treating a disease more costly than it already is.

#diabetes

Cell Phones in School

This is a very hot topic on social media right now, after a picture popped up stating the following:

"A teacher decided that in order for his students to be marked present, they have to put their cell phones into one of these slots at the start of class, which they will get back after class is finished."

Many adults agreed with this statement.  However, I don't.  I'll list the many reasons why I disagree with this.

First, every adult who agreed whole-heartedly with kids not having their phones at school are the same people who expect to have full access to their cells while at work.  Not to mention, these adults probably bought the phone for their kids in the first place.  Also, for every adult who agreed, do you allow your kid to take their phone to school?  Bet you do.  Few workplaces insist their employees put their phones away, unless they are front-line retail workers.  So why are adults insisting kids put their phones away?  Set an example.  Adults, put yours away first.

Next, why are you judging the reason behind someone else's kid having a cell phone in the first place?  Are you their parent?  Do you know the reasons behind them having one?  Do you know the rules the parents have placed on them having the phone?  Who are you to judge why my kid -- or anyone else's -- has one?  Are you paying for it?  No?  Then take a healthy dose of "Shut the Fuck Up" and mind your own business.

Now, many teachers at the junior high level and up allow the kids to use their cell phones in class to research social studies projects and various other projects.  Access to computer labs at school isn't always easy.  They are a great learning tool.  It teaches kids responsibility and how to use their devices wisely in a controlled environment.  Kids love their devices -- NOT just to text their buddies but for the information they can find at the press of a button.  Both of my kids find some very interesting facts about the subjects they like.  Hell, I've researched tons of things on my cell phone -- things I would've forgotten to look up later had I not had a cell.  Again, for all you adults who say they shouldn't be in the class room, update your thinking and open your mind to new learning styles.  Kids learn exceptionally well this way.

What about the odd kid who has no cell phone?  How does that kid make sure they are marked present?  When teachers take away expensive devices, are they going to be held responsible for private property that gets stolen?  Lost?  Broken?  What security measures do teachers like this have in place so the kids get their phones back?  Let me guess:  they don't and will summarily refuse to accept responsibility.

My final complaint about this discussion is how mean people are to those of us who believe kids should be allowed to have their phones with them.  There is NO NEED for the kind of cruel comments that smack loudly of school-yard bullies.  Don't like the reason someone has a phone for their child -- whether it's a chronic disease or to help keep them safe while they walk to and from school?  Scroll by.  There's no need to say "your kid had blah, blah, blah 30 years ago and survived school just fine".  Or kids were safe enough 30 years ago walking to and from school.  Good for you, but I guarantee if you'd had access to this technology 30 years ago, you would've used it.  Also, let's not forget that many teachers today won't take responsibility for a kid's medical issues -- 30 years ago, they did.  Also, the world was a safer place 30 years ago, so you knew your kid was going to be fine going to and from school.  Because people were kinder 30 years ago -- we've morphed into a planet full of self-centered idiots.

Better yet, how about we just drop the double-standards?  If you expect kids not to have phones at school, then I expect each and everyone of you to NEVER have your phones at work.  If you don't believe kids should have cell phones, then make sure yours doesn't before you go pointing fingers.  Because, honestly, I've seen more rudeness from adults regarding cell phone use than I have ever seen from kids.

Let's also recognize smart phones for their educational capabilities.  They are not evil, little devices that turn the human race into zombies.  If that's how you view them, then I hope you don't own one -- or a computer, for that matter.  Unfortunately, I know many of you own both -- because I've read your ignorant comments.

Bottom line is this:  everyone does what is best for them and their situation.  Outside opinions don't matter.  Keep them to yourself.

Type 1 Diabetes Misdiagnoses

Over this past weekend, two young children lost their lives.  They were not properly diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes and severe complications arose.  My condolences to their families.  I cannot imagine their pain.

Sad stories like this make me acutely aware how lucky we were to have our own kiddo properly diagnosed 4 1/2 years ago.

Her symptoms were exactly the same as these two little angels.  I thought she just had a stomach-flu with severe dehydration.  Unfortunately, she was in full-blown DKA (diabetic ketoacidosis) with blood glucose of 54 (or 972 for my U.S. counterparts).  Absolutely no clue what level her ketones were at.  Having the knowledge I do now, I realize she was close to a coma.

We were insanely lucky the doctors in emergency that night immediately recognized her symptoms, as I rattled them off, after bursting through the double doors.

It is discouraging when so many in the medical profession really have no clue about Type 1 Diabetes.  More education is needed for the all medical staff, particularly in Emergency Departments.  I could tell you stories that would blow your mind, but I don't want to detract from the real reason I'm writing this.

Type 1 Diabetes doesn't always present itself with the more common symptoms of extreme thirst, excessive urination or sudden weight loss.  In fact, I'm very jealous of the parents whose children present this way because their babies don't have to become extremely ill like my baby did.

My girl wasn't well for a few months before she was diagnosed.  However, it wasn't anything you could put your finger on.  She simply didn't feel well for a couple of days and then her pancreas would kick in, producing insulin once more, and she'd be good for a couple of weeks or so.

Two days before she was diagnosed, I noticed she looked a bit thinner than usual.  I shuffled that to the back of my mind to pay attention, especially since she was hungrier than usual.  Less than twenty-four hours before her diagnosis, she was crazy thirsty -- downed about 4 L of apple juice in just a couple of hours.  Mama Radar went up again; something was wrong.  The next morning, she was throwing up.  Mama Radar sighed -- just a stomach flu.  Every time she drank anything, she'd throw up.  Less than eight hours later, she was so dehydrated her eyes had sunken into her face with the blackest circles you will ever see.  She'd visibly lost more weight.  I rushed her to the ER to discover within minutes she was Type 1 Diabetic.  We began a terrifying, information-overloaded journey that night.  It's a bit smoother now, but T1D is a demanding disease.

More education is needed for Type 1 Diabetes diagnoses so our babies don't die, like the two little angels this weekend.  Symptoms are:

• flu-like symptoms
• extreme thirst
• sudden weight loss
• excessive urination
• not feeling well with no obvious reason
• hungrier than usual

Please.  Get the word out there.  Share the shit out of this while we wait for a cure.  Prevent the unnecessary deaths of our babies because of this damned disease.  It only takes a little blood test to save lives.

#diabetes

Authority Abusers

You know, I usually make my kids toe the rule line.  Meaning, teach them to respect people in authority and follow rules laid out by those in charge -- even when the rules are stupid, although I do allow them to push the stupid rules.  Because, seriously, as adults we question rules that make no sense.  It doesn't mean we're disrespectful, as adults.  So why is it disrespect for kids -- especially teenagers -- to question rules that aren't right?

To me, the ability to learn to question things that are wrong is part of becoming an adult.  As an adult, you better be able to explain the reason behind that rule to a teen.  Nicely, despite the attitude rolling in waves off the teen.  Yes, I know how hard the "nicely" is to accomplish.  I have two teens.  Truthfully?  There are many times, I don't accomplish the explanation nicely with my teens.

However, there are many people in places of authority who abuse the power of their position.  From police officers to politicians, school principals to managers.  What amazes me is how these authority abusers have no idea how to handle a person who: 

     a) has a brain and can talk in a common sense manner, and;
     b) has the balls to stand up to them when they abuse their authority.

Let's backtrack to my daughter's final half day at I.V. Macklin Public School.  Her principal decides to go on the warpath because some girls in grade 8 "planned" to thwart her on the dress code rules.  None of the grade 8 girls will be back in that school next year.  I'm going to add that my daughter wasn't one of the girls in on this plan.  She simply didn't want to sweat to death on the final day of school.  So what point was this authority abuser trying to make???  I still haven't figured that out, considering she absolutely refused to answer my question.  The other question I asked, which she also categorically refused to answer, was why would she even bother to pull rank on dress code for the final 3 1/2 hours of the school year -- mostly with girls who wouldn't be returning?

Not to mention, the woman couldn't speak without yelling at me.  At one point she was about 3" from my face screaming about how it was her school, her rules, and no one but her got to make them.  Well, we all know that's bullshit since it's actually the school board who makes the rules.  She just gets to attempt to enforce them.  Only problem is, you also have to use a little common sense when enforcing rules.  Last and final day is NOT the time to decide to be an arrogant, power-tripping twat waffle.  Unless, of course, your intention is to have multiple parents jumping down your throat for your galactic stupidity.

However, in my daughter's case, the issue was quickly turned away from the clothing -- which was completely appropriate with no body parts hanging out that shouldn't have been -- to the fact she had texted me from the office to "tattle".  Once said principal realized this she asked my daughter to put her phone away.  She placed it face-down on her lap -- no pockets big enough to place it in and no backpack with her.  The prinicipal's next response was a verbal attempt at confiscating her phone, to which my daughter responded with full-on teenage attitude and told her she'd better call her mom, repeating several times she needed to call mom because she wasn't allowed to confiscate her phone.

Sorry, but every teacher, principal, and vice principal has been told never to confiscate her phone due to medical reasons.  If adults can't abide by a simple rule designed to keep my child safe, why does my kid have to follow your rules???  Rules you often twist to your advantage??? 

Unfortunately, every year, for the last 4 1/2 years, we've had to do battle over this issue.  With at least one teacher, principal or vice-principal.  WHY???  Why can't these people just listen???  She needs her phone to be able to talk to me about her Type 1 Diabetes, whenever and wherever she may be.

While this so-called professional was screaming at me about my daughter's attitude about her phone, I asked why she'd even bothered trying to take it?  Reminded her that she'd been informed a few times this is an absolute no-no.  Not for any reason.  She very arrogantly told me that she wasn't using it for medical purposes, but to tattle.

Yes.  Yes, she was tattling on you.  Because you were standing there yelling at her, attempting to pull rank in an area you have all been instructed not to.  She has full rights to notify her parents and refuse to speak to you when someone in your position has forgotten what it is to treat a child with dignity and respect.  We've repeatedly told both of our girls not to speak when pulled into the office for something stupid like this.  The only thing they are to say is:  Call my mom and dad.  Call my mom and dad.

In my mind, this woman's actual problem was her "authority carpet" got firmly yanked out from under her arrogant, authority-abusing feet.  When faced with common sense questions pointing to just this fact, she refused to answer.  The reason she felt it necessary to scream is because she knew she was wrong to pull this stunt.  People who get this upset usually are wrong and they know it.  That's why they scream.

But you know what?  I'm exhausted of this battle over the phone for people who have absolutely no clue how quickly my daughter's blood glucose can change.  Stress, excitement, exercise, hormones, illness and many other factors play a role in blood glucose.  And, YES, this can change very quickly in certain circumstances.  I've watched her go from an in-range number to dangerously low in a matter of fifteen minutes.  I've also seen her blood glucose sky-rocket in a similar manner -- for no apparent reason.

Due to the stress this power-tripping principal put my daughter under, her blood glucose sky-rocketed.  It took all day to bring her back into range.  So most definitely, her texting me had to do with her health -- even if you didn't think it did.

Bottom line is this:  unless you deal with this chronic and life threatening disease every, single day, your opinion of what is necessary doesn't count.  Got that?  Especially when you have no medical training.  My teenage daughter carries a far heavier weight and responsibility than 90% of the adults out there.  One mistake could cost her life.  Really.  So kindly back the fuck off.

Before you lose your shit on the next kid whose parent steps on your authority-abusing toes, you might use your head to think about the kid's circumstances.  Then categorically pull your abusive head out of your ass, call said kid's parents and speak to them -- not yell -- speak.  If you insist on yelling at adults, just remember, they will yell back because we aren't kids -- or stupid -- nor do we have to take your shit.  Got that?

#grandeprairiepublicschooldistrict 
#typeonediabetes

Judgement and Type 1 Diabetes

We've been dealing with this disease for almost 4 1/2 years now.  The thing I struggle with most now is the constant judgement.  Judgement comes from every side:  professionals who are supposed to help you, people who know nothing about diabetes speaking like experts, and media spreading false information.  Was it there at diagnosis?  Probably.  But here's the thing:  you are too busy learning how to care for your child to reduce the long-term side effects this disease causes to hear what people say.

People went out of their way to help in the beginning.  Things like making sure there were sugar-free snacks/drinks at birthday parties and special school days.  Asking tons of questions.  Encouraging statements.  Medical professionals were more supportive with thoughtful comments and suggestions.  Heck, we were totally spoiled to have a nurse for one year whose grown daughter has T1D.

Four and a half years later, I swear everyone has more ridiculous questions, but I'm sure it's just because I've heard them soooo many times they drive me crazy now.  Things like:

• Did your kid eat too much sugar when she was young?  NO. 
• Was she active?  YES. 
• Family history?  Kind of.  Lots of Type 2 on the hubby's side and my mother's cousin has Type 1.
• Why do you let her have cake, ice cream, cookies?  Isn't she supposed to have zero sugar?  Well, hmm.  Do you eat cake?  Then she can, too, she just has to TAKE INSULIN.  
• Foods teachers who constantly "encourage" her to use Splenda in her baking projects -- after being told repeatedly by me and my girl that it ruins baking, so NO we don't bake with it.  Not to mention that Splenda doesn't lower the overall carb count by enough to ruin otherwise tasty food.
• Kids who bring cookies to school for the class and by-pass my girl because she can't "have" sugar.  Or adults who say my girl "rarely" gets to have these kinds of treats because guess what?  She does.  Since you don't live with us, perhaps you could not spread misinformation.
• A pump and CGM (continuous glucose monitor) is a cure.  A better treatment, YES; cure, NO.
• How does her pump know she's low/high in the middle of the night?  It doesn't.  Mom gets up to check -- sometimes multiple times in one night.
• Nurses who haven't seen you or your kid for six months asking how many times you've adjusted insulin rates.  Please tell me you didn't just ask that!!
• Family doctors who tell you they know nothing about Type 1 but insist you see them every time your kid needs prescriptions renewed.  Why???  You're the one who said you know nothing about her disease, so, please, just send our usual pharmacy a renewal.  Don't waste my time.  Or hers.
• Newspaper articles suggesting the number of video games played by kids today is the cause of diabetes, along with other chronic diseases.  Doubt it, but, hey, you can't fix stupid.  Those of us who deal with this disease every day are stuck listening to assumptions and unprofessional opinions of what causes it.  No matter how many times I explain Type 1 is caused by an auto-immune reaction in the body and the pancreas no longer has cells to produce insulin, there's another idiot behind them claiming my kid just needs a teaspoon of cinnamon each day to FIX this.  Or a Paleo, vegan, low carb diet, exercise, etc. to get off insulin.  (Insert frustrated swear words here.)
• Teachers who have been told not to confiscate her phone because she may need to contact me regarding her disease -- yet conveniently forget this and make her fight for it because, you know, all teenagers have an attitude problem.  Not to be rude, but, if you refuse to follow the rules laid out for you, how do you expect a teen to follow yours?
• Medical professionals who automatically assume you have no consequences in place when said teenager forgets to give insulin when she eats.  Oh, she gets in shit, each and every time this happens.  Trust me.  However, she doesn't really seem to care at the moment so I keep doing my best to kick her in the ass to care for this damned disease.  I'm not with her every second of the day.  Since I've always worked, I've never been with her every second of every day.
• Medical professionals who don't ask questions about submitted numbers are very annoying.  Do I get you are only as good as the information you are given?  Yep.  When you see gaps, maybe you should question what was going on that day instead of snapping off a judgement about what you THINK was going on and tell us you are unable to help -- because, ya, my kid actually WAS testing 4 + times a day -- just on a meter that didn't connect to her pump.  There were also days she really didn't eat until 3 p.m. (Saturday's and Sunday's -- cuz you know teens are notorious for sleeping till 1 or 2 p.m.) but was accused of not giving insulin.  Since you asked to see these numbers, I don't really check them closely before sending them to you, automatically filling in the holes -- but I guess I should because questions don't seem to be a thing in your world...  Plus, I keep manual records with info on it that can't be entered into the pump eg. illness, headache, monthly girl problems, which numbers are caused by not giving insulin -- cuz not all highs are caused by that -- some are completely unexplainable.  Give me something constructive to work with.  Or better yet, just don't say anything.  A working pancreas adjusts insulin levels 3600 times per hour, if I remember that correctly.  Try making that many adjustments manually...
• Even though you are a medical professional who deals constantly with this disease and a variety of people, doesn't mean you fully understand it -- unless, of course, you have lived with it yourself.  These are the medical pros I wish there were more of.  They understand you can do exactly the same thing for an entire week and get different results each day.  They don't judge because they know you are doing your best.  They know you are exhausted and probably haven't slept a full night since diagnosis.  They offer encouragement and kindness instead. 

Type 1 Diabetes is a tough disease.  I don't need to hear what a terrible parent I am because my kid keeps forgetting to give insulin when she eats from the so-called professional who is supposed to help me.  Or that you can't help because according to a piece of technology it looks like she hasn't been doing her part to care for this disease.  Let's face it, if you asked a few questions you could help, but then you might have to do your job. 

Please don't tell me that cinnamon totally regulates your blood sugar levels -- even though you have a fully working pancreas.  Or that eating too much sugar caused my kid's chronic disease.  Or have you tried -- insert totally ridiculous suggestion here -- to cure her?  Seriously, if it was that simple to cure this disease, don't you think it would have been eradicated by now???

Please, as a professional, before you comment, ask questions.  Make sure you know what place we are at.  Just because we aren't new to this disease, doesn't mean we aren't struggling in one area.  We still need support -- even if it's just someone who understands the disease and the level of difficulty it presents, both emotionally and physically.

If you are just a regular person, ask me all the questions you want.  I'll explain how this disease works in our world, but, remember, it affects everyone differently.  What works for my girl may not work for the next person you run into with this disease.  There is currently no cure -- although millions of people wish there were.  Please.  Stop spreading misinformation.

Eating too much sugar or being sedentary does not cause any type of diabetes.  It may be a factor but not necessarily a THE cause.  Genetics also play a very strong role and poor life style choices may simply Type 2 to the forefront.

I think it's terribly unfair to blame anyone with Type 2 diabetes  for a disease they probably could not have prevented.  We certainly don't blame cancer patients for their disease -- even though they may have exposed themselves to cancer causing things in their lifestyles, such as tanning beds or cigarettes.  Nor do we blame people with heart disease for eating too much salt or red meats.  It just is. 

So let's stop blaming people with diabetes for their disease.  They didn't cause it either.

#typeonediabetes
#diabetes

Racism Exists in Every Colour

Know what completely blows my mind?  How people of colour think only white people are racist.  White is a colour, too.  We bleed red, too.

I've listened to people of colour from other countries put Canada down because we allow our women to vote.  I've had First Nations women go out of their way to slam into me in the crowded aisle of a clothing store.  I've listened to Oprah Winfrey use the word "white" with such a derogatory tone that I deemed the woman a racist.  I haven't watched her show or network since.  Listened to many different races speak ill of white people.  Somehow, white people are not allowed to claim people of colour are racist.  Double standard?  Definitely.

First Nations people constantly claim everyone is an immigrant to Canada, except them.  Needless to say, this assumption is false as historians have found evidence they immigrated from Asia.  Yet another common complaint is what the white people stole from them, such as their language.

I've heard people of colour cry discrimination as soon as a white person looks at them with their "resting bitch face" on.  I'm tired of people of colour demanding rights above and beyond what other Canadians have.

I'm also very sick of black people calling each other "niggas", but move hell and high water if someone who isn't black uses the word.  Every day on social media this word pops up -- from the black people; not the white ones.  Perhaps you should set the example if you don't want the rest of the world using this term you find both derogatory and racist.

First, we are all Canadians, not our colour.  We should all have the same rights, regardless of our ancestry.  To the people who think women shouldn't vote:  if you truly believe that, this is not the right country for you.  Your homeland would be a much better place for you to raise your sons and daughters.  Please don't try to change our country to imitate the one you left.  I assume you left yours for Canada because it is a better, safer place to live with more opportunities than the country you left.

Second, don't assume you are the only race discriminated against.  We all bitch about people from a race different than ours:  First Nations are racist against whites, blacks are racist against whites, and people of Asian descent are, also.  Just as some white people are racist against a variety of ethnicities.  However, I also believe most people will take each individual at face value when we meet them.  If you're an asshole, you're an asshole -- no matter your colour or ethnic background.

Third, how did we "steal" anything from the First Nations people?  The federal government gave you land to call your own so you could practice your tribal ancestry.  You get to hunt at any time of the year to honour your heritage.  There are medical and educational benefits you are not required to pay for, while other Canadians must.  If your languages have become lost, perhaps you should blame that on the elders who didn't pass it on as they should have.  I think you should also blame your chiefs for the mismanagement of money on your reservations, instead of the federal government.  Many of you live in abject poverty on your reserves.  It makes me incredibly sad to see the state some reservations are in.  Yet, the white man didn't do this to you -- your greedy chiefs did by mismanaging the money allotted to them to maintain your reservations.  However, the white man did do your people wrong when we took your children from you and insisted they be educated in white schools.  This was exceptionally cruel, and I know it affects some of you negatively to this day.

I'm of Irish, Scots and Dutch descent  -- and a little First Nations, if you go back far enough.  I don't know any of my ancestors' ways of life or languages.  Nor do I feel I have "lost" an integral part of myself because of this lack of knowledge.  Why?  Because I view myself as Canadian, rather than what blood-lines I came from.

As long as there is no extremism involved, I don't think it's wrong to be proud of your ancestry:  whether that's First Nations, European, African or Asian.  Let's do the world a favour and admit we are all racist to some extent.

Low Carb Diet is the Only Way to Meet New 10% Sugar Intake Recommendation

Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended people reduce their overall sugar intake to 10% of their diet.  This is supposed to help lower the risk for certain diseases, such as heart/stroke risks, Type 2 diabetes, etc.

However, they didn't mention carbohydrates are processed in your body as sugar (glucose).  For those who have never had to carb count, this recommendation probably doesn't seem that extreme.  It is. 

A healthy diet should include a variety of grains, fruits and vegetables, dairy products and protein.  I'll give you a food list for one day, along with the grams of carbs:

Breakfast
1 cup 1% milk = 12 gm
1 slice whole wheat bread = 15 gm
1 tbsp. light peanut butter = 6 gm

Lunch
Ham and cheese sandwich on whole wheat bread = 30 gm
Greek Yogurt, Vanilla = 12 gm
Apple, medium = 15 gm

Supper
Shepherd's Pie = 30 gm
Croissant = 24 gm

Seems pretty "healthy" overall, right?  Except there should be about three more servings of fruits and vegetables, and two more grains.  Total carbs (sugar) for this day is 144 gm -- or 35% of my diet.  For one day.  Add a few more pieces of fruits/vegetables in and some grains, and I would be exorbitantly over the recommended daily sugar intake of 10%.

In my estimation, a person would have to eliminate grains, most fruits (sticking to lower carb vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, cucumber) and most dairy products.  Milk has no added sugar, unlike the yogurt, yet it's carb count isn't exactly low at 12 gm/cup.

What WHO is suggesting is virtually impossible without following a low carb/high protein (eg. Atkins Diet) or a Paleo diet.  However, most health experts also say these types of diets aren't "healthy" enough because they may not include enough variety for our bodies to obtain the correct nutrients and that the fat content of the proteins are too high to be healthy.

I think researchers should have to offer proper, healthy solutions before they release these kinds of blanket, impossible-to-follow statements, such as an example of a daily food plan to meet these recommendations.

To Vaccinate; or Not to Vaccinate?

A very controversial subject right now, to be sure, with the media reporting measles outbreaks in various parts of the country.  Me?  I lean very much toward full vaccinations within our population.  Yet I understand why some choose not to as well -- whether it may be a pre-existing medical condition that prevents vaccination or perhaps a bad reaction with an older child in the past.  I even understand people of certain religious beliefs who do not vaccinate their children.  Nor do I believe we should force those who choose not to be vaccinated to have them, as some have suggested should be done.  It is their body.  We do live in a free country.  There is also the "herd immunity" concept and here in Canada our vaccination rates are high enough most of us are protected by this.

Let's talk about vaccines.  I'm no doctor so please don't quote me as these are only my opinions based on conversations with nurses and reading articles from credited researchers regarding vaccinations.  The common childhood vaccinations (diphtheria, whooping cough, measles, mumps, rubella, etc.) simply mean you are protecting your child from diseases that may cause death or possibly adverse disabilities if your child does survive a round with any of these diseases.  These diseases don't seem to change regularly -- unlike influenza.  If everyone in the world was vaccinated for them, they could potentially become extinct diseases.  So, yes, I'm in favour of vaccinations such as these.

The anti-vaccinators I disagree with whole-heartedly are the ones who base their decision on fear-mongering, begun by mamas on the war-path to answers regarding their child's medical condition.  Yes, I'm also aware that anti-vaxers say those of us who vaccinate also fall prey to fear-mongering of these childhood diseases.

To be completely fair, ours is not a generation who has seen the debilitating side-effects -- or deaths -- these diseases have the potential to cause.  Those from previous generations, who have witnessed these diseases run rampant through our population, have more voice than those of us who have not.

I also think it would be fair to say autism has been around for many more years than people are willing to admit.  It just didn't have a name.  Just as a century or more ago, the elderly were merely senile -- now they have Alzheimer's or dementia.  Now that autism has a name, we naturally want answers as to what causes it.  I fully understand this rationale, too.  As the parent of a teen with Type 1 Diabetes, I'd love to know what caused her body to turn on itself so she can no longer produce insulin.  Better yet, I'd love to have a cure so my kiddo doesn't have to poke herself multiple times a day just to live.  Unfortunately, some things just ARE.  This need to know, to blame, is a natural part of accepting your child's diagnosis.

There are often conflicting reports on the cause of any disease, just as the "best" treatment is different from one medical professional to the next.  I also think parents lean toward the report that takes the blame off them -- not that you are to blame for your child's disease, just feel you are.  The possibility in one medical study, only to be disproven later in another, that the MMR vaccination caused autism preys on parents looking for something, someone, to blame.  In my mind, it really is that simple.  Remember that most diseases are caused by multiple factors.

I do understand those with a pre-existing medical condition who are unable to get vaccinations.  Again, to my way of thinking, reasons such as these are EXACTLY why the rest of us need to get vaccinated -- to protect those who CAN'T protect themselves.

What is thoroughly disgusting to me with this debate is how people disrespect one another's opinions.  There is no need to name call or comment with blatant rudeness.  No need to spread false information from this or that non-medical web-site.  No reason to say they should be forced to put something in their bodies they don't want there.  State your opinion respectfully, kindly and leave it at that.

Me?  I am a proud believer in vaccinating for these childhood diseases.  However, I do ask anti-vaxxers to please make sure your decision not to vaccinate is based on true facts from your doctor, nurse, naturopath or any other credited medical professional.  Please don't choose this route without thoroughly investigating all of the ramifications of your decision, keeping in mind safety -- all manner of it -- is a group effort.

Collision Capital = Lack of Courtesy

It was all over the news this week in our little city -- we are collision capital.  Collisions with injuries went up a whopping 102%.  This is a little crazy but anyone driving in good ol' Grande Prairie, AB, can see at least two close calls on each fifteen minute drive.  Not kidding.  Thankfully I haven't witnessed more than close calls, but even that is too much.  Because I'm a "people-watcher", I believe the majority of accidents are caused by total Lack of Courtesy.  So I'm going to list a few things I see on a regular basis while driving around because people are not Courteous and have Entitled attitudes.

Most important -- emergency vehicles with sirens wailing and lights flashing have the right of way.  It sickens me to watch so many vehicles carry on their way without yielding to the emergency vehicles.  I get certain times of the day it's harder to pull to the right to stop.  I get you may be at a red light -- in the left hand lane.  However, you MUST find a way to make room for them.  Hop up on the curb.  If it's safe, proceed through your red light and pull to the right.  If you were the one in need of the fire truck, ambulance or RCMP I'm sure you would appreciate this little courtesy so they could arrive faster.

Lane changes really are NOT that hard to accomplish.  You shouldn't -- for your safety and the safety of everyone else on the road -- come to a screeching halt, with your signal light on, holding up traffic, until someone is nice enough to let you in.  Or there is a hole big enough.  Or the light turns red and there is no more traffic.  It's called planning.  If you know you need a certain lane, change early enough it isn't a problem.  Watch how the traffic flows so you can safely change lanes at the speed limit.  It is far easier to change lanes if you are travelling the same speed as the rest of the traffic.  Nor would it kill you to let someone in.   It's actually very painless -- no need to speed up when you see a signal light so the person can't come over.  We are not in a race.

Signal lights -- you know, the little stick on the left of your steering wheel?  Makes the lights flash on the front and back of your vehicle so people know what you're doing?  Easiest thing in the world to use and so very helpful for everyone around you.

Honest.  No one is lying to you.  Red means STOP.  Same with the red sign that says STOP.  They are there for a reason.  Also, yellow doesn't mean "go, but go faster".  Same with yield signs.

Pedestrians also have the right of way.  Since our lovely city lives in the dark during peak driving hours for half the year, pedestrians PLEASE take some of the onus and use reflective material on your outerwear.  Sometimes motorists really can't see you until we are right there -- even on a cross walk -- because of your dark clothing and the dark skies.  And, for god's sake NEVER assume everyone on both sides of the road knows you're there.  Check before you step out from behind the vehicle.

School zones blow chunks, too.  No one seems to care about the safety of other people's children -- and barely about their own children's.  Please don't PASS stopped vehicles in a school zone.  You don't know why they are stopped -- could be letting little people cross and you can't see them.  Don't speed.  U-turns ARE illegal -- especially in school zones.  Also, you are not supposed to impede traffic by allowing your kids to "stop, drop and roll".  I know lots of people do it, me included occasionally, but it is a ticket-able offence.  And don't park on/in cross walks in school zones while dropping off/picking up your kids.  Half the time the parking lot is empty.  Use it.

Quit texting and yapping on your phones.  Whoever is calling/texting can wait five minutes till you arrive at your destination.  Before cell phones, we didn't even care until we got home, so what's the difference now?

Pay attention to road conditions in winter.  While snow removal and ice control has improved some over the last few years, it is still far from great.  Perfect example was Jan 10, 2015.  Snowed all day Friday.  "Significantly", I might add.  Not one plough out over night.  Not one during the day.  No sand or salt trucks either.  Every intersection was glare ice.  Skates would have provided better traction over rubber tires.  Seriously.  Snow removal and ice control is  a 24/7 job in a growing city like ours.  It isn't Monday - Friday, 8 to 5.  The man in charge of roads needs to recognize this and make appropriate amendments.  It would also be great if left-hand turning lanes were cleared properly.  Many are down to just half of what they should be, creating other traffic issues because of it.  Remember, not everyone is an experienced driver and can "read" how slippery that intersection may be. 

Driving too slowly in a designated speed area is every bit as dangerous as driving too fast.  In other words, 20 - 30 km/hour under the stated speed limit is dangerous to you and other drivers.  If you are afraid to drive because of the winter roads, take a taxi, the bus or walk.  But please don't endanger others -- and yourself -- by driving. 

Oh, and last but not least, don't play "games" with other drivers.  Don't like that guy on your ass because you are doing 10 km/hr under?  Speed up or change lanes so he can blow by.  If he does try to go around you, don't be a dick and speed up so he can't get back in front of you.  Let them in.  A car length doesn't make ANY difference in how fast you get somewhere.  If you are doing the speed limit and some one is riding your ass, who cares.    Be patient.  Usually that guy in front of you is driving that way for a reason -- they may see something you cannot.  And it might be ten guys in front of you who knows why there's a sudden line of traffic.

Bottom line is this, collisions are caused by impatient people making bad decisions because of a general Lack of Courtesy.  Everyone who has ever been the operator of a vehicle has been impatient and made mistakes.  What everyone needs to remember is sometimes it really was YOU who fucked up.  Admit it and try not to repeat it.  Hell, apologize if you caused the fender-bender.  Don't come up with some lame, patronizing excuse like "Oh, it's winter and roads are always slippery."  That just pisses people off.  Apologize and mean it.

Please, Citizens of Grande Prairie, AB, be courteous and patient.  Your life may depend on it.

Addiction: Disease or Choice

A recent newspaper article stating a new drug, Fentanyl, which is one hundred times stronger than morphine or oxy is in town and can be attributed to several recent deaths.  In the online comments, one former addict compared her "disease" to cancer.  Completely, totally, utterly, inappropriate comparison.  This is the claim that got me thinking about whether addiction is a disease or a choice.  Personally, I believe addiction is a choice and I'll explain why.

Addicts, both former and present, swear up and down addiction is a disease.  Not one addict will admit they chose to take that first hit of drugs.  They are all about the excuses as to why they took that first, second or third hit.  Believe me, I've heard my share of sad stories, both from current addicts, former addicts and non-addicts.  Each group has an equal amount of horrible life circumstances, usually beginning in childhood or their early teen years.  One group turns to the self-destructive behaviour of addiction.  The other does not.  How can one group, with the same turn of events in their lives, manage to thrive despite those heartbreaking and terrible events?  Choice.

What is the definition of a disease?

• an abnormal condition of a part, organ or system of an organism resulting from various causes, such as infection, inflammation, environmental factors or genetic defect and characterized by an identifiable group of signs, symptoms or both.

By that definition, an addict hasn't got an organ or system issue caused by infection or inflammation.  I'll give them environmental factors, since street and prescription drugs are a part of everyone's environment now.  I'll even give them the genetic defect because I do believe addictive personalities can be -- but are not always -- genetic.  The rest of the definition certainly does not fit an addiction profile.  At least, not in my unprofessional, observation-only opinion.

I've watched several people in my circle go down in flames, due to drug addiction.  Usually hitting the proverbial brick wall several times before they get it together.  Even now, I am standing on the sidelines watching another one go through addiction.  Breaks my heart, watching someone torture themselves with drugs, when I know very well they can make the choice to get clean.  Is it easy to come back from?  Absolutely not.  It requires an inner stubbornness the size of the North American continent -- or larger.  This is choice.

However, I refuse to enable the habit by pitying them, by giving them money, a roof over their heads or allowing them excuses, such as an abusive childhood.  You chose the path you are on.  Choose to get off it by getting professional help.

Until then, I don't want anything to do with you.  Why?  You can't believe a word that comes out of an addict's mouth.  You can't trust them in your home; they'll rob you -- even if you share the same gene pool.  You can talk till you are blue in the face about making good choices, but until the addict is ready, they will NOT change.  The truly sad thing is they play Russian Roulette with their lives each time they feed their addiction.  Addiction is a selfish life choice.

Maybe an addict can explain to me -- again -- how their "disease" can even compare to cancer?  Every choice made by an addict drives them further down this ugly road.  It isn't an illness that sends them down this path.  Just a series of really bad choices.  Someone suggested cancer is self-inflicted by lifestyle choices, such as smoking.  How do you explain the non-smoker who dies of lung cancer, yet never subjected themselves to second-hand smoke?  Explain the long-time smoker who doesn't ever get lung cancer.  How do you explain the child born with leukemia or eye cancer?  What about all the kids diagnosed with ugly and very rare forms of cancer?  Children haven't made any lifestyle choices that cause their cancer.  Some are so young, it wasn't the parents' choices either.

How would you, a recovering addict, explain an auto-immune disease, such as Type 1 Diabetes?  I guarantee there is not one person with Type 1 who did something to "cause" their disease.  No eating of too much sugar.  No lack of exercise.  Auto-immune disease just happens -- and there are many such diseases.  I will also guarantee caring for a person with this chronic, life-long, incurable-to-date disease is extremely difficult and emotionally demanding.  Because this disease doesn't play nice or follow rules.  Nor will it ever go away.

Recovering addicts CAN follow rules -- they choose not to.  It is that very lack of ability to follow rules that get addicts into trouble in the first place.  Wound up on the street because you're an addict who can't hold a job?  Get the shit kicked out of you by the dealer you stiffed?  Can't get any family or friends to take you in?  Why???  Because of a "disease"?  Sorry.  Because of choice.  Every lifestyle issue is driven by choice.  Yours.  Not mine.  Not your parents.  Not because of abuse.  Not because you got dropped on your head as an infant.  Because you CHOSE the path you are on.  And YOU are the only one who can choose to get your shit together.

If you must believe addiction is a "disease" to get your shit together, then fine.  However, I will not agree with that analogy when a few people I know simply decided one day that enough was enough and got clean -- without professional help -- and are still clean, productive members of society to this day.  That, to me, screams choice, not disease.

Instead of blaming every one and every circumstance, own what you have done to yourself and your loved ones.  Own it.  Then change it.