Bella's Butterfly Kisses: Rain, rain, go away!

Sunday, May 15, 2011

Rain, rain, go away!

Rain, rain go away! I used to love the rain because it expressed my feeling inside and because I knew that Isabella and I would not be outside running around. But I have to say that this rain is doing nothing for me. It is depressing and it stops me from going outside when I need a change of scenery or to escape the dry air in the house. Yesterday in between rain showers, my husband and I grabbed some umbrellas and took a walk. To my surprise, we ended up at my in-laws house. This is a big deal since that is the only house that I have been to since Bella has passed. We were able to put smiles on my in-laws faces because the visit was so unexpected.

My crying is turning to anxiety and a constant knot in my stomach. I almost prefer the crying because after a good cry I have a few minutes of peace. With anxiety there is no escape, it is always there lingering. I hope that this will pass too.

I miss my little monkey with all my heart and wish that she was here so that we can watch The Wiggles as she lies on my lap. I love you Princess.

6 comments:

Macuil said...: I read your blog everyday, I am praying for you daily and think about babu Bella everyday! I wish i knew how she was, I would love to see more pics of her and hear about the things that she used to do and put a smile on your face. =); May 15, 2011 at 10:36 PM
michelle said...: The only other place I have gone since losing Jack is my mother in laws- she has been a great support through all of this, I am still grappling with huge anxiety when I go out of the house without Jack- I always take his urn with me, I like the rain it comforts me and makes feel like the world is crying with me; May 15, 2011 at 11:12 PM
michelle said...: ps yes more pics would be great of bella if you have them on computer, I bet she was a doll all dressed up in a dress; May 15, 2011 at 11:14 PM
Ashley said...: Most of the time a good cry makes me feel better...or at least able to continue with the rest of my dad. Thinking of you ((Hugs)); May 16, 2011 at 10:33 AM
Patricia said...: Keep asking the angels for comfort and to show you the way. Hope to see you soon.
Love
Patricia; May 16, 2011 at 3:13 PM
Lucy said...: Even though the pain and loss you feel doesn't go away, I am so proud of you for challenging yourself to step out of your comfort zone. Your home is your safe place and the place where you feel closest to Bella. going for a walk to your in laws was probably a little bit scary, yet you gathered enough courage to do it. You should be proud of yourself, I know Bella is too!
I Love you very much.; May 16, 2011 at 4:09 PM

Post a Comment

Group A Streptococcus: The Facts

(Information courtesy of Directors of Health Promotion and Education - http://www.dhpe.org/)

What is Group A Streptococcus (Group A Strep)?
-a bacterium commonly found in the throat and on the skin
-the letter "A" is in reference to the specific classification of bacteria in the genus Streptococcus
-in some cases Group Strep A might cause no symptoms of disease, while in others, it can cause infections ranging from mild to life-threatening
-it is spread by direct person-to-person contact
-can usually be treated with anti-biotics

What are the related infections?
-mild illnesses: strep throat or impetigo
-serious illnesses: scarlet fever, rheumatic fever, postpartum fever, wound infections, pneumonia

Early Signs and Symptoms:
-strep throat: fever, sore throat, swollen lymph glands
-skin infections: red, weeping skin sores
-scarlet fever: the above symptoms plus a characteristic rash on the neck, chest, skin folds and inner thighs

Ocassionally, a more deadly strand of Group A Strep can bring on two rare, but severe diseases:

1. Necrotizing Fasciitis
-often called the "flesh-eating disease"
-an infection that attacks the deep layers of tissue
-occurs when the strain enters through an opening in the skin
-for unknown reasons, the strain becomes very aggressive, releases a toxin and destroys flesh and muscle

Early Signs and Symptoms:
-fever and sever pain, swelling, heat and redness at a wound site

Note: In Canada, 3-7 people per 1 000 000 are affected each year with necrotizing fasciitis, which is approximately 90-200 cases per year. 20-30% of these cases are fatal.

2. Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome
-causes a dangerous drop in blood pressure
-damages kidneys, liver and lungs
-toxin causes irreparable damage to tissue and organs

Early Signs and Symptoms:
-fever, dizziness and confusion
*this disease has no sign or symptom that make it distinctive from other illnesses

In all instances of Group A Strep infectiosn, symptoms will appear quickly, within 1-3 days.

What are some preventative measures?
-wash hands thoroughly and often
-ask your doctor for a throat culture for a sore throat paired with a fever
-keep wounds clean
-seek medical attention for infected wounds paired with a fever

How is Group A Strep contracted?
-the bacteria are carried in the discharges of the nose and throat of an infected person and/or in infected wounds or skin sores
-the bacteria spreads when it comes in contact with the eyes, nose or mouth of an uninfected person
-the bacteria can also enter the body through cuts and scrapes
Note: When an infected person is ill, the risk of contamination is the highest. People who are infected with no symptoms are much less contagious. Household items like cups, plates and toys do not play a significant role in the spread of Group A Strep.

Who is at risk?
Anyone.

What is the treatment for Group A Strep infection?
-various anti-biotics
-early treatment may limit the risk of death but does not prevent it in every case