Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Thursday, February 9, 2012

1 more day at work....

Tomorrow's the last day of work before our holiday!!!!!!!! YAY!!!!!!!! Going in to work early, at 5h30 AM (same as today!). Then after work have to go to pharmacy, pack, drop the kitties off at the cattery... busy busy busy! Then at 3AM on Sat morning we're on the road!!! Breakfast at 7AM in Bloemfontein, and should be by my grandarents in time for late lunch!

Please pray for a safe journey and healthy holiday :-) See you on the 2oth!

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Guest Article - by Jenna Walters

One of by blog-readers asked if she could do a guest article. She is a recent college graduate majoring in English, passionate about writing about health issues. And come to think of it, I've never really posted much about CF and it's workings. Feel free to comment!

Cystic Fibrosis and Alternative Therapy

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system. Over 70,000 people worldwide have been diagnosed with this condition in the last years. This inherited chronic disease is triggered by a faulty gene that controls the movement of salt and water in the body’s cells. The symptoms of cystic fibrosis vary over time. The main symptoms associated with this disease include persistent cough, repeated lung infections, intestinal blockage, and pulmonary hypertension.

This medical condition causes the internal organs to become clogged with thick, sticky mucus. A combination of medication and physiotherapy can help control lung infections. There is no cure for this disease. Cystic fibrosis can be kept under control through exercise and proper nutrition. Management of cystic fibrosis can help improve the patient's quality of life and delay the decline in organ function. In addition to standard treatments, doctors often recommend herbal supplements, acupuncture, massage, yoga, and homeopathic remedies.

Homeopathic treatments help the immune system fight against the disease and stimulate the body’s curative powers. Homeopathic remedies can relieve discomfort and reduce cystic fibrosis symptoms. This form of treatment is safe for pregnant women, children, and infants. Unlike drugs, homeopathic remedies are non-addictive and have no side effects. Homeopaths believe that this form of treatment uses the body's own powerful capacity to heal itself. Examples of remedies that may be prescribed for cystic fibrosis patients include Laurocerasus, Carbo vegetabilis, and Antimonium tart.

Acupuncture is a form of treatment that involves inserting thin needles in the body. This alternative therapy strengthens the immune system and stimulates respiratory function. Studies indicate that acupuncture is beneficial in treating nausea, anxiety, shortness of breath, pain, and other respiratory related symptoms that may be experienced by cystic fibrosis patients.

Massage therapy can help drain mucus from the lungs and trigger the release of endorphins. Therapeutic massage has been shown to reduce pain and muscle tightness in cystic fibrosis patients. This form of treatment improves pulmonary function, boosts energy levels, and increases muscle strength. Research has shown that massage therapy promotes well-being and reduces anxiety.

Diet is also a very important factor for individuals with serious illnesses such as pericardial mesothelioma, crohn’s disease, and Cystic Fibrosis. Cystic Fibrosis patients should be careful about what their diet consists of and should seek experienced advice on this subject. The use of certain herbal remedies may help relieve symptoms. Early treatment for cystic fibrosis can increase a patient's life expectancy and improve his general health.

- Jenna Walters

Sunday, February 5, 2012

5 more working days 'till bliss!!!

One more week of work!!!!! Don't even have Sunday blues, so excited! Saturday morning at 3am we'll be leaving for Jansenville where my grandparents are, spend 2 nights there, then on to Storms river for 3 nights in the honeymoon suite (can't imagine a more romatic Valentine's Day!). On Thursday morning we'll move on to PE for the wedding! Yay!!! So glad I'll be sharing my sister's big day with her :-)

Sunday, January 29, 2012

Celebrations

Soooo, the celebrations have been as follows: Last Sunday had lunch at our place with my parents and some very special friends. Had a super afternoon with great food and awesome company.
Last night we had a gold carpet supper with 10 friends (part of a prize Chris won in a competition) which was GREAT. Stunning food and had way too much whiskey to drink (part of the prize!)
In 2 weeks time we'll be on holiday! Can't WAIT... the thought of that will def get me through the next 2 weeks at work!























Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Thursday, January 19, 2012

2012!

The first month is already past half-way and I haven't blogged yet! Been working like a crazy rat-race person, playing squash every monday at least! Been to gym for the first time this year for a gym session.

This weekend is going to be a busy one! Zumba class Sat morning, shopping for some groceries, 21st party in the evening. Sunday is my 4 year lungaversary, so having some special guests over for lunch :-)

Don't have much else to say, just wanted to make it known I'm still alive, despite what my online presence might indicate!