Bella's Butterfly Kisses: Hope and Courage

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Hope and Courage

I have been doing lots of writing about my ups and downs lately. Unfortunately, as I look back at my most recent posts, I can see that I have been experiencing more downs then ups. The past few days have surprised me and brought me some hope and courage. There is no reason why that I can think of to be feeling like this. The weather is still dark and wet, the days still feel super long and Bella is still not here is body.

I am presently trying to concentrate on what I do have versus what I don't. I have an amazing husband whom I love very much. Isabella inherited his quizzical look, his soft voice and his gentle demeanor. I look at him and I can see her looking back at me. Some days it is so hard to see any good in the world, but the past few days given me little glimpses of light. Each morning I am trying to set my intention for the day as I tell myself that today I will be strong, today I will have a good day. Some days that works, others not so much.

Someone told me early on in my grief that my job is just to put one foot in front of the other. That is all that I can do right now. I am sure that some days I will fall but I have to just try and get back up again.

Today, I hope for us all to have a little hope and a lot of courage.

Marisa

5 comments:

michelle said...: One foot infront of the other or even one breath at a time. Its okay to have ups and downs as our path is not an easy one take. No matter wether you are having a bad day or a good day you have already shown great courage. xo; January 17, 2012 at 8:05 PM
Nadia said...: Just remember that on this journey it can only be one step at a time...it's the only way to hang on. Your ups and downs are normal considering the situation and you should be proud of yourself.; January 17, 2012 at 8:35 PM
Lucy said...: I always pray to God that he will give you whatever you need, and if today it is hope and courage, and tomorrow something different, I know he is listening.
Looking at the blessings in our lives and acknowledging them, especially at the most challenging times, is certainly a lesson we can all learn from.
You are one remarkable woman, and I am so proud to call you my sister!; January 18, 2012 at 8:37 PM
Patricia said...: I think setting an intention every morning is definitely a step in the right direction, no pun intended :) I will love myself today and be grateful for the love that surrounds me always.
I am grateful for you Marisa, for Frank, for your family, and for the powerful, loving, and joyful spirit that is your sweet Isabella.; January 19, 2012 at 10:45 AM
A. Gina said...: Marisa,
Our heavenly Father will always give you the strength to get up. Always remember He holds you in the palm of His hands.; January 20, 2012 at 10:13 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