Bella's Butterfly Kisses: 2013

Tuesday, January 1, 2013

2013

I heard a quote the other day that I wanted to share. People always say to me that they don't know how I go on without my daughter. I never can explain how I do it, or where the strength to face each day comes from. This quote explains it all.... "You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have." I am sure that this year may bring chllenges that can come of nowhere. There may be times when you will need to dig deep for strength. I hope this year that everyone finds the strength to get through the dark moments because it is only then that you can truly enjoy the beautiful ones. May 2013 be a year full of happy memories for all.

5 comments:

Angie said...: Thank you Marisa and we wish the same for you and your beautiful family. May this be a year filled with love, health and happy memories.

Happy New Year.

Love you always and forever,

Angie; January 2, 2013 at 10:31 AM
michelle said...: Thinking of your family in the new year xoxox; January 2, 2013 at 9:08 PM
Christine Cosentino said...: I love that quote, Marisa. It speaks to an infallible truth that I can relate to on a number of different levels. Thanks for sharing :)

Looking forward to sharing many great memories with the Cappellis in 2013!

Hugs,
Chris; January 4, 2013 at 9:03 PM
BellaSteph said...: That is beautiful. Wanted to stop by to see how you and Julian are, I love that name and if I missed saying it: Congrats on your new bundle of joy! xoxo; January 5, 2013 at 11:21 AM
Chris M said...: Inspiring message Marisa. Words to live by no doubt.

All the best to you for 2013.; January 8, 2013 at 12:30 PM

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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