Author: Aletha Cress Oglesby, M.D.

As a family physician, I explore the HEART of HEALTH in my work, recreation, community, and through writing. My blog, Watercress Words, informs and inspires us to live in health. I believe we can turn our health challenges into healthy opportunities. When we do, we can share the HEART of health with our families, communities, and the world. Come explore and share with me.

Weekend words from Isaiah

 

those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.

 

 

 

 

 

Weekend words is a regular feature of watercress words. At the end of the work week we take a break from exploring strictly medical topics to consider words of faith, hope and love from the Bible and other carefully selected writings.

 

Disclosure:

This blog gains no financial benefit from this or any charitable organization mentioned here. I recommend you investigate before donating anywhere.

 

Celebrating change

 
 
At one time, I worked at a hospital whose motto was “we’re changing lives” in healthcare.In their promotions, they would share stories about patients whose lives have been improved through their medical care.
 
 
 
Sometimes the people who work in healthcare have had their lives  changed, also.
 
 
 
I have recently shared these examples on the blog Facebook page .
 
 
 
 
 

Kevin Morton entered a hospital the first time  with a bullet in his chest. Years later, he has returned- this time with a stethoscope around his neck.

 

 stethoscope with a heart

 

 

Detroit gunshot victim now a surgeon

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Karen Muraszko was born “handicapped” but her parents didn’t see or treat  her as disabled. Neither did she. So she learned to help other children with the same diagnosis she has- spina bifida.

 

Doctor with spina bifida defies expectations 

 

Spina bifida is a neural tube defect – a type of birth defect of the brain, spine, or spinal cord. It happens if the spinal column of the fetus doesn’t close completely during the first month of pregnancy. This can damage the nerves and spinal cord. Screening tests during pregnancy can check for spina bifida. Sometimes it is discovered only after the baby is born.

The symptoms of spina bifida vary from person to person. Most people with spina bifida are of normal intelligence. Some people need assistive devices such as braces, crutches, or wheelchairs. They may have learning difficulties, urinary and bowel problems, or hydrocephalus, a buildup of fluid in the brain.

The exact cause of spina bifida is unknown. It seems to run in families. Taking folic acid can reduce the risk of having a baby with spina bifida. It’s in most multivitamins. Women who could become pregnant should take it daily.

NIH: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

 

 

 

 

 

 Nanette Monroe didn’t listen when people told her she was “too old” to pursue her dream. She did anyway, and now she helps others do the same.

 

 

 

 

Svetlana Kleyman‘s life was changed, first by an unexpected illness which left her with a physical disability, and then by other people’s response to it. She’s still fighting to get her life back.

SUNY wouldn’t let me finish residency