Getting beyond what's making us sick

Tuesday, October 9, 2012


Good morning everyone,


Over the last few weeks the vulnerabilities of the human body have come much closer than I like.  I'm fine, for which I'm thankful (just passing Canadian Thanksgiving, I guess I should use that word).

However, I've accompanied one friend to "the surgeon" while she discusses her second hip replacement, and accompanied another friend to a biopsy (results come back pretty soon).  A third friend has been having heart problems; medications haven't quite sorted it yet, but there are good possibilities. A community leader who I respect hugely had some serious surgery a month back; he seems to be making a good recovery, but will have changes in his physical self; he actually posted some excellent social comments during his early recovery.  And just today I've found out that a woman I respect and count on for her local political analysis has come through a bout of cancer and her husband has just had a serious surgery, and come through.

For all the complaints we hear about "wait times" our health care system - and the thousands and thousands of people who really are the health care net - is doing its best to take care of us.  And I am thankful for it.

The health problems most friends have been having are common health problems in their over 50 age group.

Put together with the rise in cancers, ALS, immune system problems ... and arthritis, fibromyalgia, attention deficit disorders and repetitive strain injuries ... I am more convinced than ever that a large percentage of health problems are begun by, or made worse by the toxic soup of pollutants in our air, water and soil (and consequently in our food).  And made worse again by the job and activity styles that contemporary life has brought.

I may not be expressing myself well, because I'm feeling sort of battered by all the news from people lately.  But I'll get all this into the context of working for a healthier environment, through gardening and simpler living ... working my way to recommitting to do something about it all.  (check out your local Transition group!)

After all, this blog is "Saving the World in My Spare Time".

Best regards to all of you,

Why's Woman