There are many topics of discussion that interest people around different months or seasons. This column is reserved for inspiration and a good laugh every now and then. As I bring relevant and captivating information to the community, my desire for every person is to take away something that will impact his or her life in a major way. This month observes Myasthenia Gravis awareness, PTSD awareness, and National Ice Cream Soda Day on June 30th.
Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is an auto immune disease that affects the neuromuscular system by causing various degrees of weakness in voluntary muscles. Despite its rarity, many people experience how hard it is to live with quality of life because of the profound effect on breathing. We take for granted the muscles involved in breathing, but the testimony of those with MG will cause you to think again. This topic really “hits home” for me because I have a relative who is diagnosed with MG and I just recently told her that I don’t want her to feel as if she is alone. Support for this infirmity is so important. I love her and I want to share that sentiment with you all for comfort during the times when support is much needed. Support groups offer an outlet to connect and bond with those who can associate with the physical and psychological limitations. It really makes the difference when the days, weeks, and months get really tough to handle. My hope for everyone with MG and other debilitating diseases is to be encouraged and empowered by the fact that they are not defined by the things that come against them to bring them down; overcoming those things is a testament that will attract more of what they desire. In essence, the attention is on the well being of the person, and not the negative nature of the disease. “Empire” is the new smash hit television show on FOX whose lead character, Lucious Lyon, is diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis. This development occurred close to the end of season one, and really set the stage for an interesting turn of events for the upcoming season two. I’m looking forward to it this fall because the producer, Lee Daniels, along with the cast and crew seems to be very passionate about creating the awareness about how to live loving yourself with that being an extension of how you appreciate support despite past character flaws. The show has multiple story lines, but the situation surrounding Lucious Lyon is sure to be an eye-opener and start the conversation of this particular auto immune disease. For more information on Myasthenia Gravis, www.myaware.org is a great source.
As a retired veteran of the armed services, I also know about the signs and symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). PTSD awareness is also needed because the behavior patterns can seem confusing to someone who doesn’t understand, and even though it’s associated more with those who served in the military, anyone can experience the effects of this disorder. Noticeable signs are a heightened sense of awareness, dreams that manifest various behaviors, and nervousness around loud sounds. I know because I have experienced them all. Symptoms relate to what you can feel, and I can only imagine how broad the spectrum can be for some people. Support for PTSD can come in many ways. One popular way is the company of a pet. It can bring such a calming presence that has long lasting effects. PTSD can manifest unpredictable behavior so professional therapy is also helpful. The end result of any type of support should always be improvement of self esteem, and that the person is never alone in this journey of life.
Now with the National Ice Cream Soda Day coming up, this just might be a good way to have a reason to set aside all the drama in the world and take time out to smile and enjoy something delicious. I’m a naturally serious person so taking time out to consciously enjoy something simple helps me create a balance. Enjoying something this simple can be a time-honored tradition to help bring people together. With so much division around us or disturbing events, it’s nice to have something that takes the complexity out of life.
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