Choices ~ Healing ~ Love
May 1, 2004 Volume 5 Issue #8
Publisher & Editor: Gail R. Mitchell -

Spring has finally sprung! It's hard to believe it's really here. I have been on a whirlwind of travel this past month with marvelous experiences to show for it. It is an incredible experience for me to be out sharing with you in conferences; experiencing healings, openings and the transformation of your experiences right in the very moment. I honor each of you in all that you are experiencing.

You all are truly the "UNSUNG HEROES" of our nation that go totally unacknowledged. I truly pray that each and everyone of us will make our voices heard at the right time, to begin evoking change into our goverment. Sitting quietly and holding in all the mixed feelings isn't what it is about. The numbers of caregivers in this nation grow daily.

I will continue to encourage you to write one solid letter about your experiences and what your needs are, what is lacking and how you are needing assistance. Then send your letter via email if it is easier to your Senators, House of Reps, Your Governor, Mayor and the President of the United States. Can you imagine, if all the millions who are caring for loved ones took responsibility to do this. Their desks would be flooded with caregiving letters all making a huge statement.

Remember it is important to complain and whine and let go of the stuff that troubles you, but it is vitally important to harness this energy and transform it into taking responsibility and action for helping to effect change in this nation. It's time to wake up and make our voice heard! Your voice is important, even when you don't think it is. We may be small in the bigger scheme of things, but just like the smallest granule of sand that makes up the beautiful white beaches, we are the unsung heroes who are caring for this nation's peoples, young and old. Caregivers are saving the government billions.. $269 billion dollars and we virtually receive nothing in return. Yes, I am aware that in some states, caregivers are beginning to be helped, but truthfully, it just isn't enough. We are in a crisis, and the government keeps this crisis silent as if it almost is non existent. The numbers range from 22.3 to 54 million at this time. I wonder how many of us there really are. Gail Hunt of the National Caregivers Alliance said that in the results of a recent research study they did with Met Life, there were 39% men now caregiving; quite an increase from what we thought it was these past few years.

I know at times I may be erratic in speaking my truth, but I am daring to risk writing about these issues in this welcome letter as it comes through me. There are many legislators and lobbyists who are rallying on behalf of our nation's family/informal caregivers, but the process is slow. Caregiving is not a prioity in our government. It is up to us to raise the consciousness on the growing needs we as caregivers have so that it is recognized as a priority by our elected government officials who are elected by us to represent us.

I urge you to begin making your voice heard. Take time to write your letter.. express your feelings and send it to the following:

President George Bush
The Whitehouse
Washington, DC 20500
tel 1-202-456-1414 fax 1-202-456-2461
president@whitehouse.gov
www.whitehouse.gov/president/

Vice-President Dick Cheney
The Whitehouse
Washington, DC 20500
tel 1-202-456-1414 fax 1-202-456-2461
vice.president@whitehouse.gov
www.whitehouse.gov/president/vpbio.html

Us Senators' email addresses

United States Congress

Other Departments Of The  US Government

States & Governors

Along my journies, I had the blessed opportunity of spending time with Maggie Davis whom I have known for about 5 years via the Internet and the phone. The work she is doing and her soulfulness was a welcomed respite for me and I am so grateful for the time we shared with one another.. In the middle of the rural hills and coasts of the Blue Hill Peninsula, Maggie and I shared, laughed, cried and took drives and long walks with her little companion, Ozzie.. I was totally amazed that outside her windows bright and early each morning, we could identify over 12 species of birds feeding from the feeders that were set up..Learn more about Maggie her project, Neighborcare and her healing writings in the featured spotlight this month.

I am also very grateful for Barry Neil Kaufman's contribution to our "Caregivres Concerns Column" on "Intentions". For the past twenty or so years, I have read his books and followed the growth of his organization, The Option Institute, in Massachussetts where he has helped autistic children , couples and individuals with choices and empowerment.

And lastly, A Very Very Happy Mother's Day .

May your journey be gentle and beautiful!
In Love & Light,
Gail
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Wishing you all a wonderful Mother's Day filled with much love, light, peace and joy. If you are caring for your Mother, take time to be fully present. If there is something you are harboring, move into forgiveness and let go.. love is the greatest healing power there is in this Universe.. Open your hearts to receive and send out only love....

Top Of Page

UPDATES AT THE SITE

Teleconferencing Caregiver Support Groups

Several of the members of our community have requested that we develop telephone conferencing support groups whereby members could telephone in on a conference line at their own expense for the phone call in order to participate in a weekly support program. I am willing to set this up, however, it would be essential that you committ to the number of sessions and the times scheduled. Setting up a bridge costs money and we would need your committment if we were to do this. Please respond by taking our POLL.

If you have questions or suggestions please email me directly grm4love and type teleclass in the subject line. Thank you. I do look forward to hearing from you. If you need to request specific times and days, please email me so that we may coordinate it into the final schedule and if you would like to see specific topics covered please let us know. Thank you.

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Empowering Caregivers - New Chat Host & New Chat Times
Introducing Robin Arce aka Angel437
2 New Chats: Fridays at 2:00PM EST & Sundays at 7:00PM EST
Beginning May 1st

Robin aka Angel 437 hails from the Jersey Shore. Her father suffers from CHF, as well as the other conditions that go along with it. Recently, just before Christmas 2003 he came to live with Robin and her family as her mother and siblings are unable to care for him. Her innate ability to care for her parents, has led her in the direction of becoming a registered nurse. She recently has become a moderator as well as hosting chats on the boards. Robin enjoys sharing her experience with others, as well as listening to others experiences. Her belief is that it enriches her life; and as she can continue to grow, emotionally and spiritually through her journey of caregiving she is able to assist others in their’s.

Communication is a great stress relief. Come join in our Enpowering Caregivers chats. Times not convienient?, Interested in a specific topic? Let us know. Come spend some time and meet new friends. We can all use some Enpowerment to get us through our journey. Looking forward to seeing you,.. Robin. You may also read more about Robin in this month's Spotlight here at the site.

National Organization For Empowering Caregivers NOFEC
Sign Up For Your Free Membership
Take Our Caregiver Survey

We invite you to join in our complimentary membership at: Join Us. While you are there, please take a few minutes to fill in the Caregiver Survey. Your input is extremely valuable and we will respect your privacy. Your support in filling in the survey will help us and our funders to reveal areas where programming is most needed and where it will be most effectivec. Survey.

Mary C. Fridley
Questions & Answers
May 2004
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John Felitto
Nutrition For Our Soul's Intention – Attention
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Alan Cohen
Take Your Power Back

Or click on this link:
Featured Guest Experts
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NEW CAREGIVING ARTICLES AT THE SITE

Do You Know Someone Who Suffers From Depression? by David Turo-Shields.
Care for the caregiver of the chronically depressed family member Article.

Spring Into Enchantment by Barbara Holstein
Who can control a smile sneaking across your face as you go outside on a beautiful spring day, suddenly finding your nostrils filled with a sweet aroma of fresh blooms, while feeling warm breezes against your skin, whispering, "No coat today."? Article

"They Were Never Defeated, Only Killed" by Mary Fridley
The author did a web search for information on the French Foreign Legion as a result of this quote. What she discovered were some striking similarities between legionnaires and caregivers. Article

When Helping Hurts:Sustaining Trauma Workers by Frank Ochberg, MD
This article is about vicarious PTSD It is for trauma workers, caregivers, volunteeres and others who may be vulnerable to compassion fatigue. Article

Forgive & Forget By Ridgely Goldsborough
The author speaks about letting go...and not carrying anger.. healing and forgiving others and yourself...Article

Planning & Paying For Long Term Care by Carole C. Lamson & Martin Petroff
The authors discuss how to prepare for long term care via insurance, medicare and spending down in New York State specifically. Article

If you are interested in submitting an article(s) please go to: Submit. You will find a form for submitting your article, bio/profile, copyright permissions, etc. Please review our guidelines for acceptance, submit and we will notify you upon acceptance.

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In Memory
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CAREGIVERS CONCERNS

Intentions

OFTEN, we experience our lives as leaves blown by the wind. Instead of feeling in charge of our experiences, we sense ourselves becoming victims of events around us. However, we are in charge of how we choose to respond and what we choose to feel.

I had the opportunity to put the power of intention into practice with my own father. My dad and I had a pretty discordant relationship for decades. I talked about happiness being a choice; he proposed that genetics and the environment were important ingredients to consider. I suggested we could change ourselves in big ways quickly and without pain; he argued (rather angrily) that we are how we are, with only limited abilities to change, and my simplistic ideas indicated disrespect for the complexity of the human condition.

Clearly, he seemed closer and more comfortable with my siblings, who shared many of his perspectives. Thus, he surprised me one Sunday morning when he and my stepmother, Rosie (who I love dearly), called to solicit my help-provided I would not share the conversation with my siblings. I agreed rather tentatively.

My father told me he had been diagnosed with metastatic cancer that had spread throughout his abdominal area. He wanted my help in deciding what to do. I kept thinking as he spoke that although he had difficulty relating to me for years, he must have decided I could be helpful to him. I leaned back, thought quietly about what he just related, and considered how I wanted to respond. In effect, I considered my intentions. I decided to fully be myself. I would do whatever it took to love him and serve him. After years and years of floundering, I had in a matter of a few seconds grounded myself with a clear purpose in my unfolding relationship with my father.

I
leaned forward into the phone and said, "Pop, I am so excited for you. Sounds like you are about to begin one of the great adventures of your life."

After some silence, my father laughed out loud and said to Rosie, who had been listening, "You see, Rosie, that's why we called him. Listen to his attitude."

I began a deep and tender journey with my father on that Sunday morning. It was a journey guided by clear intentions-by clarity of purpose. One afternoon many months later, I asked if I could hold his hand as I sat in a chair beside him. He smiled and took my hand, permitting a texture of contact and love that we had never shared before. He was 85. I was approaching my mid-50's. Father and son holding hands. I could not recall ever doing that with him, even when I was a child.

Each time we were together, I would always ask myself, "What is my intention?" And so when any siblings experienced much pain and distress as any father faced his escalating challenges, I found myself feeling warmth, love, and gratitude for a benevolent universe that had provided both of us with one last chance to heal our differences and celebrate what we came to enjoy and respect in each other.

The event didn't provide the opportunity. Clear intentions, from the very start, made it possible. Instead of being a leaf blown in the wind, I experience much of my life being guided by those intentions. No, I cannot dictate the events around me or the actions of other people, but I can decide, even in advance, how I choose to be and what I choose to feel.

Barry Neil Kaufman
The Option Institute
Web Site: www.option.org

Barry Neil Kaufman's newest book, No Regrets: Last Chance for a Father and Son, is the inspirational true story of Kaufman's reconciliation with his father. Kaufman is the co-founder of The Option Institute, a nonprofit organization located in Sheffield., Mass where he and his staff counsel individuals. couples. families. and groups on methods of self-ernpowerment. For more information write at: 2080 S Undermountain Road Sheffield, MA USA 01257-9643: Telephone: (413)229-2100 Fax: (413)229-8931 call 800714-2779 or visit www.option.org.

Kaufman has been featured in national magazines from People to Family Circle, and in leading newspapers such as The New York Times, The Chicago Tribune, The Boston Globe, and The Los Angeles Times. He has been featured on major talk shows such as Good Morning America, First Person with Maria Shriver, and Phil Donahue. Kaufman has also been interviewed twice by Oprah Winfrey. Barry Neil Kaufman is the recipient of the Humanitas Prize, as well as twice recipient of the Christopher Award.

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IMPORTANT NEWS

Body Mind Spirit
Empowering Caregivers: Caregiving 101
Continuing Education & Public Programs
The Graduate Center: CUNY: New York, New York
10:30am-Noon or 6:30pm-8pm
May 5th & May 25th 2004

This course will provide support and guidance to caregivers (informal/family), helping them move into this role with greater knowledge, awareness, and ease. Some of the topics to be covered include self-care; support groups; accessing community services and resources; dealing with role reversal; options for long distance caregiving; and negotiating financial, legal, and insurance matters. The program will be presented by Gail R. Mitchell, President/Founder of National Organization for Empowering Caregivers in NYC.

  • 4377 - 2 Wednesdays, May 5 & May 25 10:30am-12pm $15; $12 AARP
  • 4378 - 2 Wednesdays, May 5 & May 25 6:30-8pm $15; $12 AARP

To register, email continuinged@gc.cuny.edu with the information listed on this form. Or click for all of our registration options.

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New Jersey Governor Promotes Caregiver Support & In-Home Options

New Jersey Governor James McGreevey recently signed an Executive Order to expand caregiver support services. The Executive Order creates the New Jersey Caring for Caregivers Initiative, which provides 14 county Offices on Aging with funds to offer a variety of services in the home of the caregiver. It would also fund seven county Statewide Respite Care Programs to help caregivers. The Governor has also included funds in his budget proposal for the Senior Care program. Under this initiative, residents would have the flexibility to live in their own homes or in the home of a loved one while still receiving long-term funds to obtain necessary health and supportive services. The program would be similar to other "Money Follows the Person" initiatives around the country. Information about New Jersey Caring for Caregivers Initiative: and Senior Care program details:

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"Conscious Aging: Living on Purpose"
May 6-7, 2004, Greensboro, NC

Sponsored by the Adult Center for Enrichment and Shepherds Center at Bryan Park Enrichment Center, Browns Summit, NC. Speakers include H.R. Moody, Jean Luce, Wayne Ewing, and others. For information and registration, contact Sallie White at (336) 274-3559 For additional information, visit: http://www.acecare.org

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National Respite Conference in September 2004

The National Respite Conference will be held September 8-10, 2004 in Atlantic City, in conjunction with the New Jersey Conference on Caregiving, Wellness & Family Support. The conference will focus on the critical importance of caregiving, including respite and wellness of individuals with developmental disabilities mental illness the elderly, those with chronic illness, and children at risk of child abuse and neglect, and those who care for them. Conference information:

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Featured Empowering Caregiver's Expert
John Felitto
Life by Intentional Design A Teleclass Series
Stop Chasing Goals & Live the Life You Want NOW!
Use the Power of Intent to Get What You Want
Wednesday, May 5, 2004
1:30-2:30pm Eastern
Tuition: Free

3 Ways to Enjoy the Programs

Participate "Live" on the Telephone
Listen 24/7 on our Audio Podium
Audio Cassette

Get beyond the limitations of goal planning and engage in “Meaningful Intentions”© filled with passion, purpose, love and benefits for all. Unlike goal chasing, your happiness is not deferred to some distant point in time. Happiness is here NOW in this precious perfect moment. MFor details, click here

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National Women's Health Week
May 9-15, 2004
National Women's Checkup Day
May 10, 2004
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Medicare's New Drug Discount Card

Starting May 3, seniors can begin to sign-up for Medicare approved prescription drug discount cards. The discount cards become effective June 1st.

Some cards will be offered for free, though others may charge a one-time enrollment fee of up to $30 under the law. Low-income seniors may be eligible for an additional $600 credit to help pay for their prescriptions and would not have to pay the annual enrollment fee. The discount cards will become effective June 1.

A recent study conducted by Harvard Medicare School researchers estimated that seniors without drug coverage would save approximately 17.4 percent on the cost of their prescriptions through the Medicare-approved prescription drug discount card program.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which runs the Medicare program, will allow seniors to compare drug prices between available discount cards at each of their local pharmacies. The information will help seniors find the best prices for their drugs. Seniors can compare drug prices and cards at www.medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

The Alliance to Improve Medicare (AIM) is working to educate seniors and others about Medicare's new benefits. Our new web site provides information and links to other resources with important news on the new Medicare coverage options. Please visit www.medicaretoday.org for more information and resources on the new Medicare benefits. You may also contact AIM via for more information

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New Guidelines for Fish

On March 19, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released a consumer advisory for reducing exposure to methylmercury from fish and shellfish. Methylmercury is a natural and industrial pollutant that accumulates in fish over time and can impede development of the nervous system in fetuses, babies, and young children.

The FDA and EPA advise pregnant women, nursing mothers, women thinking about becoming pregnant, and young children to follow strict guidelines when eating fish and shellfish. Still, these agencies want to stress the importance of including fish in your weekly diet. They currently recommend eating fish twice a week to take advantage of the high-quality protein and essential fatty acids found in most seafood. If you are in one of the high-risk groups, you can limit your exposure to methylmercury by taking the following precautions:

  • Avoid types of fish that contain high levels of methylmercury, including shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish.
  • For your two weekly fish meals, choose fish that are typically low in methylmercury, including shrimp, canned light tuna, salmon, pollock, and catfish.
  • Limit canned albacore "white" tuna and tuna steaks to just one of your two fish meals a week. Albacore tuna and tuna steaks contain more methylmercury than canned light tuna.
  • Serve smaller amounts of fish (less than six ounces) to young children.
  • Pay attention to mercury level advisories when fishing in local lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. When in doubt, limit your consumption of locally caught fish to one meal per week and don't eat any other fish that week.

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Carers Hail New Pledge From Blair In The UK

22 April 2004 - A huge step forward for working carer's rights was taken in a pledge by Prime Minister Tony Blair to extend the right to request flexible working to carers of elderly and sick relatives.

Prime Minister promised to extend to carers the same rights as those introduced for parents in the workplace. Currently carers can only request time off for emergencies.

With over half the nation's six million carers in work, many would like to be able to combine caring with having a job. Flexibility at work has risen to the top of people's priorities for action and in a recent survey seven out of ten employers said they would consider flexible working requests from all their staff.www.carersonline.org.uk

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Spanish Version:"A Family Caregiver's Guide to Hospital Discharge "

With support from MetLife Foundation, the National Alliance for Caregiving and the United Hospital Fund have released a Spanish-language version of "A Family Caregiver's Guide to Hospital Discharge Planning." The Spanish edition is available online at http://www.caregiving.org/FamDisPlanEsp.pdf, and a limited amount of hard-copies are available. Single copies of the booklet are free, and bulk orders are subject to a small shipping and handling charge.For more information, send an e-mail to info@caregiving.org.

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Lifespan Respite Task Force Meeting Scheduled
Monday, May 17, 2004 - 10:00 am
Location to be Announced

A new date for the originally scheduled May 3 meeting of the Lifespan Respite Task Force has been proposed to better accommodate the schedules of Hill staff who have been asked to provide us with an update on the Lifespan Respite Care Act and strategies to move the bill forward. The tentative new date is Monday, May 17 at 10:00 am. I expect the meeting to be held in one of the House office buildings and will keep you posted on the exact location and date confirmation.

Since our last meeting on March 31, three new House cosponsors have been added, bringing the total to 115. The new cosponsors are: Rep Strickland, Ted - 4/22/2004 [OH-6], Rep Jenkins, William L. - 4/22/2004 [TN-1], and Rep Spratt, John M., Jr. - 4/22/2004 [SC-5]. Preliminary staff meetings have also been held with House Energy and Commerce staff.

Jill Kagan, MPH
National Respite Coalition
Policy Division of the ARCH National Respite Network
4016 Oxford St. - Annandale, VA 22003 - 703-256-9578
www.archrespite.org/nrc.htm;
www.archrespite.org/tforce.htm

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Course: Women and Stress

Sign up for a free e-mail course about women and stress! Each week for eight weeks, you will receive one e-mail lesson. Lessons will contain a feature on women´s health issues that are affected by stress, a parenting/family feature, a relationship-oriented feature, plus a weekly thought/discussion question. You can share your answers to the weekly questions in the Stress site Forum. The course is individualized so that you may begin with Lesson One at any time, and you are always free to unsubscribe any time you wish. Women's Stress Course.

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Study: Doctors Often Pick Costlier Drugs

Doctors often prescribe newer, more expensive drugs for high blood pressure instead of the ones recommended under medical guidelines, and the practice is costing the nation more than 1 billion dollars a year, researchers say. More.

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Video Helps Asian Community With Transportation

The Asian Community Center in Sacramento has dubbed a video into Cantonese to help caregivers, volunteers and drivers transport an elderly person with cognitive disability. For information on how to obtain a copy of the video, contact the center: www.accsv.org

Veteran's Resources

Disabled American Veterans
www.dav.org
Disabled American Veterans is the voice of America's service-connected disabled as well as a nationwide network of services made available free of charge to all veterans and members of their families.

Fisher House Foundation
www.fisherhouse.org
Fisher House Foundation, a national not-for-profit organization, provides temporary homes for military and veterans' families while a loved one is receiving care at major military and VA medical centers.

Foundation for American Veterans
www.fav.org

The Foundation for American Veterans was established to provide various benefits for all veterans regardless of which branch of the military they served with. The foundation's main goal is to step in and assist veterans -- either through veterans hospitals, homeless programs, or educational and crisis programs -- where the local, state, and federal governments leave off.

National Veterans Foundation
http://www.nvf.org

A nonpartisan public service foundation devoted entirely to the humanitarian needs of our nation's veterans and their families.

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
http://www.va.gov

The Department of Veterans Affairs' Web site provides information on VA programs, benefits, and facilities worldwide.

Veterans Health Administration
http://www.va.gov

In addition to its medical care mission, the Veterans Health Administration is the nation's largest provider of graduate medical education and one of the nation's largest medical research organizations.

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Generations United: 2004 Intergenerational Photography Contest

Generations United is pleased to announce its 2004 Intergenerational Photography Contest sponsored by MetLife Foundation's Healthy Aging Initiative. The contest is for the best intergenerational photo taken by a younger or older amateur photographer, of younger and older people together and should demonstrate the importance of intergenerational connections. The contest is open to children and youth up to 21 years of age, and adults over the age of 50.

Contest prizes include: grand prize $250, second place $100, third place $50, and honorable mentions in the leading categories (Celebration of Diversity, Emotional Expression, Humorous Situations, and Intergenerational Activity Portrayed). Entries for the contest must be postmarked to Generations United no later than July 31, 2004. A full contest brochure is available at www.gu.org or by calling GU at (202) 289-3979.

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Change the Future: Get Involved in Cover the Uninsured Week 2004

Nearly 44 million Americans have no health coverage, including 8.5 million children. In 2002, the number of people without health coverage increased by more than 2 million, the largest one-year increase in a decade. People without health coverage live sicker and die younger than those who are covered. To help reverse this disturbing trend, some of the most influential organizations in the United States, such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the AFL-CIO and more than 800 national and local organizations will work to make the issue of the uninsured a focus of national discussion during Cover the Uninsured Week - May 10 to 16, 2004. Noah Wiley, of ER fame, is serving as the national spokesperson and former Presidents Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter are serving as co-chairs of this weeklong series of national and local activities, which are all part of a year-round educational effort. Cover the Uninsured Week is a project of the Robert Wood Johnson’s Foundation. The Cover the Uninsured Week Web site offers a wide variety of ideas for ways that individuals can help to educate their own communities about this national crisis, as well as tools and resources to carry these ideas out.

To learn more visit CoverTheUninsuredWeek.org or call (202) 572-2928.

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Novartis Launches Virtual House

Novartis has launched a new web-based platform called Virtual House, as a service for patients and their caregivers. Virtual House aims at making homecare of seriously ill persons easier. It provides recommendations for the arrangement of the house, in order to reduce domestic accidents and improve the safety, comfort and quality of life of patients and their caregivers. Virtual House is only the English translation of the French "Maison Virtuelle" a website developed by Novartis in France in 2002. The site is very successful in France, where it won a prize ("Grand Prix du site Internet des Entretiens Bichat 2002") and generated considerable interest among French patient and caregiver associations. A Spanish version of Virtual House is on its way. Learn more about Virtual House

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Aetna Compassionate Care Program

Aetna designed this site as a "resource center" to help you better understand the issues and choices associated with end-of-life care. The site includes helpful information on end-of-life and palliative (comfort) care issues, advance planning tools, tips to begin conversations on end-of-life care with loved ones, advance directive forms, living wills and much more. Compassionate Care

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May Is: A Month Of Awarnesses

Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month
Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America

1233 20th Street, NW, Suite 402
Washington, DC 20036
(800) 7-ASTHMA
http://www.aafa.org

May is Older Americans Month.
U.S. Administration on Aging Website: To Download Materials

Better Hearing and Speech Month
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

10801 Rockville Pike
Rockville, MD 20852
(800) 638-8255
http://www.asha.org

Better Sleep Month
Better Sleep Council

501 Wythe Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
(703) 683-8371
www.bettersleep.org

Correct Posture Month
American Chiropractic Association

1701 Clarendon Boulevard
Arlington, VA 22209
(800) 986-4636
www.amerchiro.org

Hepatitis Awareness Month
Hepatitis Foundation International

504 Blick Drive
Silver Spring, MD 20904
(800) 891-0707
www.hepatitisfoundation.org

National Arthritis Month
Arthritis Foundation

1330 West Peachtree Street, Suite 100
Atlanta, GA 30309
(800) 283-7800 General Information
(877) 232-2898 Walk Information
http://www.arthritis.org

National Digestive Diseases Awareness Month
Digestive Disease National Coalition

507 Capitol Court, NE, Suite 200
Washington, DC 20002
(202) 544-7497
http://www.ddnc.org

National High Blood Pressure Education Month
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Health Information Center

P.O. Box 30105
Bethesda, MD 20824-0105
(301) 592-8573
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov

National Neurofibromatosis Month
National Neurofibromatosis Foundation

95 Pine Street, 16th Floor
New York, NY 10005
(800) 323-7938
http://www.nf.org

National Stroke Awareness Month
National Stroke Association

9707 East Easter Lane
Englewood, CO 80112-3747
(800) STROKES
http://www.stroke.org

Skin Cancer Awareness Month
American Cancer Society

1599 Clifton Road, NE
Atlanta, GA 30329
(800) ACS-2345
http://www.cancer.org

National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month
National Osteoporosis Foundation

1232 22nd Street, NW
Washington, DC 20037
(202) 223-2226
http://www.nof.org
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For Caregivers
Integrating Spirit and Caregiving Conference 2004
May 17 – 20, 2004
Garrison Institute - Garrison, New York

Naropa University Extended Studies is proud to present their 2nd Annual Caregiving Conference - a professional symposium of leading visionaries, authors, and teachers presenting their unique and innovative models for end of life care. Naropa University is a liberal arts university with a unique Buddhist heritage, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in the arts, humanities and social sciences. The School of Extended Studies offers a 9-month, online low-residency certificate for health care professionals in Contemplative End-of-Life Care, taught by faculty from RIGPA Spiritual Care Program. For Info:

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New Website-Center for Health Care Strategies (CHCS)

CHCS has a new Web site with its resource material sorted throughout by 8 topics: Adults with chronic illnesses and disabilities, Behavioral health, Children's services, Clinical quality, Consumer involvement, Long-term care, Medicaid Program design, and Pharmacy. CHCS

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COPD Support
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NIH Launches NIHSeniorHealth.gov
New Web Site Features: Health Information
Talking Web, Easy Access for Older Adults, Visually Impaired

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) launched NIHSeniorHealth.gov a new talking web site with formats and topics tailored to the needs of older people. The senior friendly site takes advantage of techniques developed by the National Institute on Aging (NIA) and the National Library of Medicine (NLM) designed to encourage older people to use the Internet, and this site in particular, as a resource for the best information on health and medical research. The site presents content in short, easy-to-read segments of information repeated in various formats, such as open-captioned videos and short quizzes, to increase the likelihood that users will remember information – even those with mild cognitive impairment. Consistent page layouts and prompts reduce the likelihood that users will be overwhelmed.

For now, content is limited to basic information on Alzheimer's disease, caregiving, arthritis, exercise, hearing loss and several types of cancer. Additional topics will be added in coming months, covering such areas as vision changes, shingles, diabetes and complementary medicine. NIHSeniorHealth.gov

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Family Caregiver Alliance; New Research
Caregiving and Depression
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Top Of Page

INFORMATIVE CAREGIVING ARTICLES & INSPIRATION

Quotes

What I do you cannot do; but what you do, I cannot do. The needs are great, and none of us, including me, ever do great things. But we can all do small things, with great love, and together we can do something wonderful.

Mother Teresa

If we fail to nourish our souls, they wither, and without soul, life ceases to have meaning. The creative process shrivels in the absence of continual dialogue with the soul. And creativity is what makes life worth living." -

Marion Woodman

In order to have a real relationship with our creativity, we must take the time and care to cultivate it.

Julia Cameron

The major institution for social change is the human heart.

Ram Dass

I do not know anyone who has got to the top without hard work. That is the recipe. It will not always get you to the top, but should get you pretty near.

Margaret Thatcher

Confucius once said:Those who cannot forgive others break the bridge over which they themselves must pass.

Desire is the key to motivation, but it’s the determination and commitment to an unrelenting pursuit of your goal—a commitment to excellence—that will enable you to attain the success you seek.”

Mario Andretti

All of us are watchers -- of television, of time clocks, of traffic on the freeway -- but few are observers. Everyone is looking, not many are seeing.

Peter M. Leschak

The happiness of a man in this life does not consist in the absence but in the mastery of his passions.

Alfred Lord Tennyson
~
Total Awareness

I'm noticing things now I never did see
Before - Like the birds and the leaves on the trees
The sunrise so beautiful - welcoming dawn
Promises peace from God's only Son

Life has now slowed to a halt, so it seems
I'm not always sure if it's real or a dream
But I feel the touch of God's Hand upon me
Comforting, strengthening, empowering me

So I will not falter in the way I must go
I'll face my fears bravely - as to His Hand, I hold
When time and Eternity, at last, will embrace
I'll be found with my Saviour - Beholding His Face

Yes, I know I'm headed for glories untold
This body is fleeting - It can't hold my soul
My life is now hidden with Christ - Don't you see?
His angels rescued, and then escorted me
To the Throne of God - Where I'll ever be free.....

c) 2002 Dorothy Womack
Written for Helenmae Manon
~
Thoughts On Peace

If you wish to experience peace, provide peace for another.
If you wish to know that you are safe, cause another to know that they are safe.
If you wish to better understand seemingly incomprehensible things,help another to better understand.
If you wish to heal your own sadness or anger, seek to heal the sadness or anger of another.

Those others are waiting for you now.
They are looking to you for guidance, for help, for courage, for strength, for understanding, and for assurance at this hour.

Most of all, they are looking to you for love.
My religion is very simple. My religion is kindness.

Dalai Lama, 9/11/1
~

Speaking to G-d"

The man whispered, "G-d, speak to me" and
a meadowlark sang.
But, the man did not hear.

So the man yelled, "G-d, speak to me" and the
thunder rolled across the sky.
But, the man did not listen.

The man looked around and said, "G-d, let me see you."
And a star shined brightly.
But the man did not see.

And, the man shouted, "G-d, show me a miracle."
And, a life was born.
But, the man did not notice.

So, the man cried out in despair, "Touch me, G-d,
and let me know you are here." Whereupon, G-d
reached down and touched the man. But the
man brushed the butterfly away ....and walked on.

Don't miss out on a blessing because it isn't
packaged the way that you expect.

Author Unknown

Top Of Page

MESSAGE BOARDS & EMAIL BAG

Hi. I just found this website last night and am totally delighted. I am 39 years old, married, no children (yet?). My parents were in their forties when I was born. They are now 82 & 84; both are bedridden and have feeding tubes. I quit my job in Sept. as an office manager for a title insurance company to stay at their home during the day. I had worked for that company for 14 long and usually stressful years. I have not missed my old job for one single minute. Some days are so busy that I just "get through" the day. Some days are sad because I remember how my parents used to be. and then I just "get through" the day. Some days are great because I know I've done something on that day for them that a sitter could or would not have done or cared about. ... We are trying very hard to keep them out of a nursing home, though at some point we know we might have to go there. It's very hard balancing my life, because even though I am a very positive, optimistic, "just do it" kind of person, their situation weighs heavily on my mind and my heart most of the time. Anyway, thanks for letting me introduce myself. I am excited about getting to know each of you. Julia267

~

Recently I took my son, my youngest to get ice cream after dinner. On the way he started to cry. He shared with me how my father's *kidding*, teasing him bothered him. He feels hurt by his comments. My father tends to hide his own fears by joking, or if he just has nothing else to talk about. Dad has been like this even when I was a child. It seems to have worsen as he has aged.

I explained to my son, that Pop truly does not mean anything *mean* by his actions, and gave him an example of what happened to me the day before with my father....

Just the other day, I found my son crying alone in the livingroom. He told me he was so sad about pop dying, and that he didn't want him to die. I told my son, *these are good emotions, and it is okay to cry and feel sad*. I feel that way to. I also told him to remember that Pop loves us all, and that he is having a peaceful journey home surrounded by love. Angel437

~

JOKES & HUMOR

"Senior Personal Ads"

FOXY LADY: Sexy, fashion-conscious blue-haired beauty, 80's, slim, 5'4" used to be 5-6), searching for sharp-looking, sharp-dressing companion. Matching white shoes and belts a plus.

LONG-TERM COMMITMENT: Recent widow who has just buried fourth husband, and am looking for someone to round out a six-unit plot. Dizziness, fainting, or shortness of breath are not a problem.

SERENITY NOW: I am into solitude, long walks, sunrises, the ocean, yoga and meditation. If you are the silent type, let's get together, take our hearing aids out and enjoy quiet times.

WINNING SMILE: Active grandmother with original teeth seeking a dedicated flosser to share rare steaks, corn on the cob and caramel candy.

BEATLES OR STONES? I still like to rock, still like to cruise in my Camaro on Saturday nights and still like to play the guitar. If you were a groovy chick, or are now a groovy hen, let's get together and listen to my eight-track tapes.

MEMORIES: I can usually remember Monday through Thursday. If you can remember Friday, Saturday and Sunday, let's put our two heads together.

MINT CONDITION: Male, 1932, high mileage, good condition, some hair, many new parts including hip, knee, cornea, valves. Isn't in running condition, but walks well.

Senior Moments.

Senior Driving - As a senior citizen was driving down the freeway, his car phone rang. Answering, he heard his wife's voice urgently warning him, "Herman, I just heard on the news that there's a car going the wrong way on Interstate 77. Please be careful!" "Hell," said Herman, "It's not just one car. It's hundreds of them?

"I Can Hear Just Fine" Three retirees, each with a hearing loss, were playing golf one fine March day. One remarked to the other, "Windy isn't it?" "No," the second man replied, "its Thursday." And the third man chimed in, "So am I. Let's have a beer."

Two elderly ladies had been friends for many decades. Over the years they had shared all kinds of activities and adventures. Lately, their activities had been limited to meeting a few times a week to play cards. One day they were playing cards when one looked at the other and said, "Now don't get mad at me. I know we've been friends for a long time. But I just can't think of your name! I've thought and thought, but I can't remember it. Please tell me what your name is." Her friend glared at her. For at least three minutes she just stared and glared at her. Finally she said, "How soon do you need to know?

~

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