Texas Bay Area Polio Survivors

            august meeting

August 5, 2006

Hello once again, Survivors!

The monthly meeting, despite our summer heat, was well attended once again, with about 20 folks present. We were especially pleased to have a ‘newcomer’, Richard Smaistrk, and Ermila Gonzalez, a returning member. 

First, a reminder of the Emergency Preparedness Meeting that will be held Saturday, August 12, from 10am - noon, at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, on Upper Bay Drive just off  Nasa Road One.  There will be some great speakers, and this is a topic of importance to those in need of any type of physical assistance.   

With the topic of emergencies being brought up, some essential safety issues were discussed. Doris handed out some info on dental procedures and anesthesia cautions that apply directly to post polio patients.  If you need a copy or link to these publications, click on the ‘feedback’ link, where you can email your request. 

Also discussed was the necessity to have dead bolt locks with key access rather than latch access alone.  And, make sure you make extra keys to give to trusted neighbors and family in the event you need help.  This applies to everyone – not just to those with PPS, so keep this in mind. 

Heard of ICE?  For those with cell phones, it’s a great concept.  Simply program in a contact with the name of ICE (In Case of Emergency) and provide phone numbers for emergency contact.  Also, just in case you lose your mobile phone, another tidbit of good info – while you still are in possession of your phone (before it’s lost…) get the serial number off of it (dial * # 0 6 #) or from your purchase paperwork.  Then, if your phone is lost, calling your provider with the serial number will promptly stop any phone access by others. 

And, one more. Flash drives, jump drives – those neat little portable information USB-driven devices that can be purchased at almost any store – are now being used to store medical information on individuals.  If you have access to a computer, at least put in your basic information (name, age, medications, medical conditions, etc.) and specifically put in your current medications, allergies, doctor contact numbers, etc.  You can scan any medical records and include those as well.  Also, ask your doctors if they will add any of their pertinent records of your conditions to the drive.  Keep this attached to your key chain, and indicate somewhere on the outside of the case that it contains medical information.  It’s always a good idea to keep a card with you at all times with the basic medical information, even if you don’t have access to a flash/jump drive or a computer. 

So, lots of good information shared on some topics that pertain to all of us – please pass them on to anyone you think will also benefit. 

Lastly, handicap accessible parking was discussed. A pet peeve to all of us is those parking in spaces who are not handicapped.  Some talk was given as to what defines the need for handicapped parking, with varying responses.  How frustrating it is to need a space close by and not have one available.  We should all respect the signs specifically designated for van access, and find another spot to park if our parking does not require van access.  And, while this is my point of view, assuming a spot is being used illegally because the occupant is able to walk is just that, an assumption.  If the driver’s license matches the placard number, they are parking appropriately, whether their medical condition is obvious or not.  While asking to see everyone’s license certainly won’t work, asking of them if they are the one to whom the placard is assigned is appropriate.  No one minds a kindly question when they do require handicapped access – they understand.  The same kindly question directed to someone parked illegally will be met with a much different response. 

On a different note, Mark, our very much appreciated webmaster, seems to be healing well from his recent arm surgery – which is good since we keep providing him with updates, information, etc. that require him to work!  Great going, Mark – even while on-the-mend, you kept us up-to-date!

See you Saturday, September 9 (2^nd Saturday due to Labor Day), same place, same time!  We’ll discuss plans for a picnic in October!

Hope to see you there,
Carol