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The year 2010 brings us to our 19th year of helping cardiac patients and their families thought our programs here at Heart Support of America. Our programs consist of assistance to individuals and also a program in which we provide grant funding to cardiac referral hospitals across America. We also educate the public through our free Heart Attack First Aid Kit. The kit gives information on cardiac diseases along with life saving facts and procedures to follow if someone is suffering from a heart attack. This information is literally a life saver and is available to anyone at no cost. We have sent out over thousand so far this year. These kits are along with education printed in our mailing reach millions of homes each year.

http://www.womenshealth.gov/faq/heart-disease.cfm

Click the link to access all of the information regarding heart disease for women. 

Frequently Asked Questions

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    * What is heart disease?
    * Do women need to worry about heart disease?
    * Do women of color need to worry about heart disease?
    * What can I do to prevent heart disease?
    * What does high blood pressure have to do with heart disease?
    * How can I lower my blood pressure?
    * What does high cholesterol have to do with heart disease?
    * What do my cholesterol and triglyceride numbers mean?
    * How can I lower my cholesterol?
    * How do I know if I have heart disease?
    * What are the signs of a heart attack?
    * One of my family members had a heart attack. Does that mean I'll have one too?
    * Sometimes my heart beats really fast and other times it feels like my heart skips a beat. Am I having a heart attack?
    * Should I take a daily aspirin to prevent heart attack?
    * Does taking birth control pills increase my risk for heart disease?
    * Does using the birth control patch increase my risk for heart disease?
    * Does hormone replacement therapy (HRT) increase a woman's risk for heart disease?
    * For More Information

See also . . .

    * Diabetes: Overview
    * Heart Healthy Eating
    * Menopause and Menopause Treatments
    * Obesity and Weight Loss
    * Physical Activity
    * Stress and Your Health

In 1991, I went to the ER with chest pains twice in one week. They said it was ulcers (bleeding in the stomach). Then the pain became very intense. Again, the ER said there was nothing they could do. I refused to leave and was admitted for observation. Later, the doctor on duty saw my EKG and asked, "Where's the 34-year-old who had the massive heart attack?" I had emergency surgery. But the damage was done; only part of my heart muscle functions. I had to quit a job I loved, and my life is completely changed. They thought I was too young to have a heart attack.
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What is heart disease?

Heart disease includes a number of problems affecting the heart and the blood vessels in the heart. Types of heart disease include:

    * Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type and is the leading cause of heart attacks. When you have CAD, your arteries become hard and narrow. Blood has a hard time getting to the heart, so the heart does not get all the blood it needs. CAD can lead to:
          o Angina (an-JEYE-nuh). Angina is chest pain or discomfort that happens when the heart does not get enough blood. It may feel like a pressing or squeezing pain, often in the chest, but sometimes the pain is in the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back. It can also feel like indigestion (upset stomach). Angina is not a heart attack, but having angina means you are more likely to have a heart attack.
          o Heart attack. A heart attack occurs when an artery is severely or completely blocked, and the heart does not get the blood it needs for more than 20 minutes.
    * Heart failure occurs when the heart is not able to pump blood through the body as well as it should. This means that other organs, which normally get blood from the heart, do not get enough blood. It does not mean that the heart stops. Signs of heart failure include:
          o Shortness of breath (feeling like you can't get enough air)
          o Swelling in feet, ankles, and legs
          o Extreme tiredness
    * Heart arrhythmias (uh-RITH-mee-uhz) are changes in the beat of the heart. Most people have felt dizzy, faint, out of breath or had chest pains at one time. These changes in heartbeat are harmless for most people. As you get older, you are more likely to have arrhythmias. Don't panic if you have a few flutters or if your heart races once in a while. If you have flutters and other symptoms such as dizziness or shortness of breath, call 911 right away.

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Do women need to worry about heart disease?

Yes. Among all U.S. women who die each year, one in four dies of heart disease. In 2004, nearly 60 percent more women died of cardiovascular disease (both heart disease and stroke) than from all cancers combined. The older a woman gets, the more likely she is to get heart disease. But women of all ages should be concerned about heart disease. All women should take steps to prevent heart disease.

Both men and women have heart attacks, but more women who have heart attacks die from them. Treatments can limit heart damage but they must be given as soon as possible after a heart attack starts. Ideally, treatment should start within one hour of the first symptoms.

If you think you're having a heart attack, call 911 right away. Tell the operator your symptoms and that you think you're having a heart attack.
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Do women of color need to worry about heart disease?

Yes. African American and Hispanic American/Latina women should be concerned about getting heart disease because they tend to have more risk factors than white women. These risk factors include obesity, lack of physical activity, high blood pressure, and diabetes. If you're a woman of color, take steps to reduce your risk factors.
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What can I do to prevent heart disease?

You can reduce your chances of getting heart disease by taking these steps:
Take action to reduce heart disease risk:

   1. Be physically active
   2. Don't smoke
   3. Eat healthy
   4. Maintain a normal weight
   5. Know your numbers (blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides)

    * Know your blood pressure. Years of high blood pressure can lead to heart disease. People with high blood pressure often have no symptoms, so have your blood pressure checked every 1 to 2 years and get treatment if you need it.
    * Don't smoke. If you smoke, try to quit. If you're having trouble quitting, there are products and programs that can help:
          o Nicotine patches and gums
          o Support groups
          o Programs to help you stop smoking
      Ask your doctor or nurse for help. For more information on quitting, visit Quitting Smoking.
    * Get tested for diabetes. People with diabetes have high blood glucose (often called blood sugar). People with high blood glucose often have no symptoms, so have your blood glucose checked regularly. Having diabetes raises your chances of getting heart disease. If you have diabetes, your doctor will decide if you need diabetes pills or insulin shots. Your doctor can also help you make a healthy eating and exercise plan.
    * Get your cholesterol and triglyceride levels tested. High blood cholesterol (koh-LESS-tur-ol) can clog your arteries and keep your heart from getting the blood it needs. This can cause a heart attack. Triglycerides (treye-GLIH-suh-ryds) are a form of fat in your blood stream. High levels of triglycerides are linked to heart disease in some people. People with high blood cholesterol or high blood triglycerides often have no symptoms, so have both levels checked regularly. If your levels are high, talk to your doctor about what you can do to lower them. You may be able to lower your both levels by eating better and exercising more. Your doctor may prescribe medication to help lower your cholesterol.
    * Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight raises your risk for heart disease. Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) to see if you are at a healthy weight. Healthy food choices and physical activity are important to staying at a healthy weight:
          o Start by adding more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to your diet.
          o Each week, aim to get at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate physical activity, 1 hour and 15 minutes of vigorous physical activity, or a combination of moderate and vigorous activity.
    * If you drink alcohol, limit it to no more than one drink (one 12 ounce beer, one 5 ounce glass of wine, or one 1.5 ounce shot of hard liquor) a day.
    * Find healthy ways to cope with stress. Lower your stress level by talking to your friends, exercising, or writing in a journal.

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What does high blood pressure have to do with heart disease?

Blood pressure is the force your blood makes against the walls of your arteries. The pressure is highest when your heart pumps blood into your arteries – when it beats. It is lowest between heart beats, when your heart relaxes. A doctor or nurse will write down your blood pressure as the higher number over the lower number. For instance, you could have a blood pressure of 110/70 (read as "110 over 70"). A blood pressure reading below 120/80 is usually considered normal. Very low blood pressure (lower than 90/60) can sometimes be a cause of concern and should be checked out by a doctor.

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a blood pressure reading of 140/90 or higher. Years of high blood pressure can damage artery walls, causing them to become stiff and narrow. This includes the arteries carrying blood to the heart. As a result, your heart cannot get the blood it needs to work well. This can cause a heart attack.

A blood pressure reading of 120/80 to 139/89 is considered prehypertension. This means that you don't have high blood pressure now but are likely to develop it in the future.
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How can I lower my blood pressure?

If you have hypertension or prehypertension, you may be able to lower your
blood pressure by:

    * losing weight if you are overweight or obese
    * getting at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate physical activity or 1 hour and 15 minutes of vigorous activity each week.
    * limiting alcohol to one drink per day
    * quitting smoking if you smoke
    * reducing stress
    * following the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) Eating Plan, which includes cutting down on salt and sodium and eating healthy foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products

If lifestyle changes do not lower your blood pressure, your doctor may prescribe medicine.
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What does high cholesterol have to do with heart disease?

Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in cells in all parts of the body. When there is too much cholesterol in your blood, cholesterol can build up on the walls of your arteries and cause blood clots. Cholesterol can clog your arteries and keep your heart from getting the blood it needs. This can cause a heart attack.

There are two types of cholesterol:

    * Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is often called the "bad" type of cholesterol because it can clog the arteries that carry blood to your heart. For LDL, lower numbers are better.
    * High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is known as "good" cholesterol because it takes the bad cholesterol out of your blood and keeps it from building up in your arteries. For HDL, higher numbers are better.

All women age 20 and older should have their blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels checked at least once every 5 years.
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What do my cholesterol and triglyceride numbers mean?

    * Total cholesterol level - Lower is better. Less than 200 mg/dL is best.
      Total Cholesterol Level
         
      Category
      Less than 200 mg/dL
         
      Desirable
      200 - 239 mg/dL
         
      Borderline high
      240 mg/dL and above
         
      High
       
    * LDL (bad) cholesterol - Lower is better. Less than 100 mg/dL is best.
      LDL Cholesterol Level
         
      Category
      Less than 100 mg/dL
         
      Optimal
      100-129 mg/dL
         
      Near optimal/above optimal
      130-159 mg/dL
         
      Borderline high
      160-189 mg/dL
         
      High
      190 mg/dL and above
         
      Very high
    * HDL (good) cholesterol - Higher is better. More than 60 mg/dL is best.
    * Triglyceride levels - Lower is better. Less than 150mg/dL is best.

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How can I lower my cholesterol?

You can lower your cholesterol by taking these steps:

    * Maintain a healthy weight. If you are overweight, losing weight can help lower your total cholesterol and LDL ("bad cholesterol") levels. Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) to see if you are at a healthy weight. If not, try making small changes like eating an apple instead of potato chips, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or parking farther away from the entrance to your office, the grocery store, or the mall. (But be sure to park in a safe, well-lit spot.)
    * Eat better. Eat foods low in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol.
    * Eat more:
          o Fish, poultry (chicken, turkey--breast meat or drumstick is best), and lean meats (round, sirloin, tenderloin). Broil, bake, roast, or poach foods. Remove the fat and skin before eating.
          o Skim (fat-free) or low-fat (1%) milk and cheeses, and low-fat or nonfat yogurt
          o Fruits and vegetables (try for 5 a day)
          o Cereals, breads, rice, and pasta made from whole grains (such as "whole-wheat" or "whole-grain" bread and pasta, rye bread, brown rice, and oatmeal)
    * Eat less:
          o Organ meats (liver, kidney, brains)
          o Egg yolks
          o Fats (butter, lard) and oils
          o Packaged and processed foods

There are two diets that may help lower your cholesterol:

    * Heart Healthy Diet
    * Therapeutic Lifestyles Changes (TLC) Diet

Get moving. Exercise can help lower LDL ("bad cholesterol") and raise HDL ("good cholesterol"). Exercise at a moderate intensity for at least 2 hours and 30 minutes each week, or get 1 hour and 15 minutes of vigorous intensity physical activity each week.

    * Take your medicine. If your doctor has prescribed medicine to lower your cholesterol, take it exactly as you have been told to.

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How do I know if I have heart disease?

Heart disease often has no symptoms. But, there are some signs to watch for. Chest or arm pain or discomfort can be a symptom of heart disease and a warning sign of a heart attack. Shortness of breath (feeling like you can't get enough air), dizziness, nausea (feeling sick to your stomach), abnormal heartbeats, or feeling very tired also are signs. Talk with your doctor if you're having any of these symptoms. Tell your doctor that you are concerned about your heart. Your doctor will take a medical history, do a physical exam, and may order tests.
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What are the signs of a heart attack?

For both women and men, the most common sign of a heart attack is:

    * Pain or discomfort in the center of the chest. The pain or discomfort can be mild or strong. It can last more than a few minutes, or it can go away and come back.

Other common signs of a heart attack include:

    * Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
    * Shortness of breath (feeling like you can't get enough air). The shortness of breath often occurs before or along with the chest pain or discomfort.
    * Nausea (feeling sick to your stomach) or vomiting
    * Feeling faint or woozy
    * Breaking out in a cold sweat

Women are more likely than men to have these other common signs of a heart attack, particularly shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting, and pain in the back, neck, or jaw. Women are also more likely to have less common signs of a heart attack, including:

    * Heartburn
    * Loss of appetite
    * Feeling tired or weak
    * Coughing
    * Heart flutters

Sometimes the signs of a heart attack happen suddenly, but they can also develop slowly, over hours, days, and even weeks before a heart attack occurs.

The more heart attack signs that you have, the more likely it is that you are having a heart attack. Also, if you've already had a heart attack, your symptoms may not be the same for another one. Even if you're not sure you're having a heart attack, you should still have it checked out.

If you think you, or someone else, may be having a heart attack, wait no more than a few minutes—five at most—before calling 911.

illustration of a woman's body showing how a heart attack affects the body, inside and out
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One of my family members had a heart attack. Does that mean I'll have one too?

If your dad or brother had a heart attack before age 55, or if your mom or sister had one before age 65, you're more likely to develop heart disease. This does not mean you will have a heart attack. It means you should take extra good care of your heart to keep it healthy.
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Sometimes my heart beats really fast and other times it feels like my heart skips a beat. Am I having a heart attack?

Most people have changes in their heartbeat from time to time. These changes in heartbeat are, for most people, harmless. As you get older, you're more likely to have heartbeats that feel different. Don't panic if you have a few flutters or if your heart races once in a while. If you have flutters and other symptoms such as dizziness or shortness of breath (feeling like you can't get enough air), call 911.
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Should I take a daily aspirin to prevent heart attack?

Aspirin may be helpful for women at high risk, such as women who have already had a heart attack. Aspirin can have serious side effects and may be harmful when mixed with certain medicines. If you're thinking about taking aspirin, talk to your doctor first. If your doctor thinks aspirin is a good choice for you, be sure to take it exactly as your doctor tells you to.
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Does taking birth control pills increase my risk for heart disease?

Taking birth control pills is generally safe for young, healthy women if they do not smoke. But birth control pills can pose heart disease risks for some women, especially women older than 35; women with high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol; and women who smoke. Talk with your doctor if you have questions about the pill.

If you're taking birth control pills, watch for signs of trouble, including:

    * Eye problems such as blurred or double vision
    * Pain in the upper body or arm
    * Bad headaches
    * Problems breathing
    * Spitting up blood
    * Swelling or pain in the leg
    * Yellowing of the skin or eyes
    * Breast lumps
    * Unusual (not normal) heavy bleeding from your vagina

If you have any of these symptoms, call 911.
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Does using the birth control patch increase my risk for heart disease?

The patch is generally safe for young, healthy women. The patch can pose heart disease risks for some women, especially women older than 35; women with high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol; and women who smoke.

Recent studies show that women who use the patch may be exposed to more estrogen than women who use the birth control pill. Estrogen is the female hormone in birth control pills and the patch that keeps you from getting pregnant. Research is underway to see if the risk for blood clots is higher in patch users. Blood clots can lead to heart attack or stroke. Talk with your doctor if you have questions about the patch.

If you're using the patch, watch for signs of trouble, including:

    * Eye problems such as blurred or double vision
    * Pain in the upper body or arm
    * Bad headaches
    * Problems breathing
    * Spitting up blood
    * Swelling or pain in the leg
    * Yellowing of the skin or eyes
    * Breast lumps
    * Unusual (not normal) heavy bleeding from your vagina

If you have any of these symptoms, call 911.
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Does menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) increase a woman's risk for heart disease?

Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) can help with some symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood swings, and bone loss, but there are risks, too. For some women, taking hormones can increase their chances of having a heart attack or stroke. If you decide to use hormones, use them at the lowest dose that helps for the shortest time needed. Talk with your doctor if you have questions about MHT.
For more information

For more information on heart disease, please call womenshealth.gov at 1-800-994-9662 or contact the following organizations:

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Phone Number(s): (301) 592-8573
Internet Address: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/index.htm

National Cholesterol Education Program
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Internet Address: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/about/ncep

National High Blood Pressure Education Program
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Internet Address: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/about/nhbpep/index.htm

Act In Time to Heart Attack Signs Campaign
National Heart Attack Alert Program
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Phone Number(s): (301) 592-8573
Internet Address: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/actintime

The Heart Truth
National Awareness Campaign for Women about Heart Disease
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Internet Address: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/hearttruth/index.htm

American Heart Association
Phone Number(s): (800) 242-8721
Internet Address: http://www.americanheart.org

WomenHeart
Phone Number(s): (202) 728-7199
Internet Address: http://www.womenheart.org

All material contained in this FAQ is free of copyright restrictions, and may be copied, reproduced, or duplicated without permission of the Office on Women's Health in the Department of Health and Human Services. Citation of the source is appreciated.

This FAQ was reviewed by:

Patrice Desvigne-Nickens, M.D.
Program Director
Heart Failure & Arrhythmias Branch
Division of Cardiovascular Diseases
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

All material contained in the FAQs is free of copyright restrictions, and may be copied, reproduced, or duplicated without permission of the Office on Women's Health in the Department of Health and Human Services; citation of the source is appreciated.
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February is Heart Disease Awareness Month  the American Heart Association calls it "Go Red" month to highlight heart disease in women and how to prevent the #1 killer of women each year.  Heart disease kills more women each year than breast cancer: almost one in three women will die from cardiovascular disease.

However, most over 80% of cardiac emergencies in women can be prevented with proper diet, exercise, and not smoking.   Focusing on low sodium foods and cutting out processed carbohydrates can make huge differences in our susceptibility to heart disease.

It's also important to know the signs of a heart attack which differ in women and men.  Signs a woman is possibly having a heart attack include:

Chest discomfort tightness, pressure, pain in the center of the chest that lasts for more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back.

Discomfort in other areas of the upper body including pain in one or both arms, the neck, jaw, or stomach.  These are are especially important if they occur during exercise.

Shortness of breath accompanied with chest discomfort.

Cold sweats,nausea, or light-headedness.

If you feel any of the above, or any type of chest discomfort--err on the side of caution. Call 911.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 x

Everyone...we are living in dangerous times with the change of the health care reforms that the government is trying to pass...It's extrememly dangerous.  Please read everything & listen to good informative news broadcasts like Fox News, CBN (Christian Broadcasting Network) even CSPAN has had good info.  Most of the main stream media networks are not telling you the truth as to what is in the health reform bill. This bill is dangerous!  It may cost the life of a loved one like your parents, spouse, children, your baby, or even yourself.    

Hi,

I know you have probably read through many posts by now and have made a decision but I had to try if anything for my kids.  I have three wonderful blessing, Eliana 18mo (who was a preemie born at 2lbs and suffers from COPD because her lungs didn't mature fast enough), Jaden 7yr and Sabrina 10yr.  I am not one that feels comfortable asking for a handout so please bare with me in this email.  These past few months have been very hard on me--we had been doing ok on the little bit of SSI I get.  I had been doing fine raising my three on $674 per month without child support but had the help of medicaid and food stamps.  Then my medicaid was cut off and the food stamps too.  My kids still have medicaid but mine was cut off because I have an agreement with the attorney general not to pursue child support with my ex because he had molested and attempted to kidnap my 10yr when she was 2yr (the other father disappeared and they haven't been able to find him).  I had to start spending our bill money on food and my medical costs--I have heart problems and a kidney disease called FSGS that has affected both kidneys-which causes me extreme fatigue and nausea and pain.  Because of my kidney problems and lack of nutrients caused by it I suffer from EOSD which is a type of Dementia where I can't remember things (fortunately not as bad as someone suffering from Alzheimer) and on stressful days it naturally gets worse.  I have tried twice to apply for disability, both times been denied.  The first time I was told by an attorney that I was denied for being too young (I was 28yr) this second time (at 31yrs) I was told it was because they tell me it was for the same reasons.  I have tried to work and have not been able to keep my job for longer than a couple weeks and now of course no one wants to hire me, though I have skills and some college education (I have to quit my dream of an Associates Degree in Criminal Justice and then on to a Bachelors in Science because I was having difficulties remembering the courses).  I only have my mom here with me but she had suffered a bad car accident a couple years back where she had to relearn to walk and had a close head injuring leaving her on disability and a fixed income as well.  My daughter's 10yr old birthday is this Saturday and I don't have money to get her a present or throw her a birthday party for the first time.  I am so miserably depressed and worry what will happen with my electric bill because I can't pay it this month and the company won't give me an extension nor can I get charity for it because I did the last two months.  The only plus side is that I did find out why my electric had skyrocketed and my daughter and I crawled under the house and fixed the damage the strays dogs did to the AC ducts--but unfortunately Sam Houston Elect won't don't anything about discounting it even though my electric rarely raised over $175 and I told them that I have been in this house for 3years not and had they ever see my electric get up to $300 and $400?!  Even though they agreed they say they can't do anything about it.  My bank account is -$300 from trying to catch up on the electric and I still owe $300 to avoid it from being cut off in a few days.  I am here praying that someone(s) out there can help me with my electric bill.  I have tried every resource and charity in my area and have been turned down.  I live in Texas where the heat is absolutely unbareable.  PLEASE PLEASE help me!  If maybe you could just spare $100 toward my electric they might hold off in turning it off.  I am willing to give you the account number and telephone to the company so you can pay them directly.

Thank you and God Bless you for having the kindness and heart to help someone (even if not me) who is in a less fortunate position as you are in.

Have a good day,
Sincerely,
Stephanie

I have a post on here that I am updating. To show that I have been able to arrange to get my teeth fixed. Of course anything good always has a bad side.  I am revising my plea to the one I have listed here ok.

In order for me to get my teeth done I have to use everything I get from my yard sale to pay for my teeth with and that means that I can't setup my class reunion of 32 years of not seeing each other. So it was very important to me. I have to deal with my own life span (which is very short), everyday so seeing these friends was like a last wish. With all my health conditions I am not sure I will ever get another chance!! It would have been a 32year class of 82 , Pinson Valley High School!! Anyway I want to do this but I have to get my teeth fixed or I will die sooner rather than later, If the infection gets into the weak parts of my heart which is where it would go to first after entering the blood stream, these are the weak parts -(Mitral Valve regurgitation, Aortic valve regurgitation, Congestive Heart failure, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary disease, Emphysema, and Obstructive Sleep Apnea, and not last of all but of need m a Left rib resection for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome) with all this against me it has to be done fast. I hope and pray you will find it in your heart to give any little bit you can, even a dollar would be a blessing. I thank you with all the hugs I can give!!

Sincerely,

Patti

Hi!

   Eight years ago our world fell apart when my son, my only child commited suicide. Within 2 months my husband, a stone mason, suffered a heart attack. While hospitalized, he was diagnosed with kidney disease, diabetes, and work-related lung disease. He was put on several medications and returned to work. The kidney function and his general health failed so quickly he was placed on permanent disability 18 months later. Although he wanted to continue working, it was impossible. He had to have a triple heart bypass, and that knocked out his kidneys completely. He was on kidney dialysis for over a year. Thankfully, a relative donated a kidney and he received a transplant 4 years ago. Of course, he no longer had work health insurance. He paid for COBRA for a year, but even that is no longer available. He is now on Medicare, but that doesn't pay for much. His medicine, which includes his rejection drugs, runs about $1200 a month. Medicare pays about $300 of this. He is ineligible for state aid because the state says he has too much money coming in from disability. They don't look at what is going out every month to pay for medicine, doctor visits, and past hospital bills. We have even had a doctor ask why he even had the kidney transplant if we were going to have trouble paying for the necessary rejection drugs. I helped as much as I could, working 2 jobs, until I also became disabled last year. Because of his diabetes, he has lost most of his teeth in the past 2 years. He is unable to eat most foods because of this, and certainly unable to enjoy what he does manage to eat. He is desperately in need of a dentist who can make him a set of dentures. We need one who is willing to take small monthly payments. We are in the Chicago area. I was hopeful, that after his transplant, things would get better. We are thankful for all our blessings, including the successful transplant , which we thank God for every day, but it is hard for me to see him suffer with his teeth, and be unable to help. He has gone through so much in the past 8 years, I'd like to see him at least be able to eat normally again. Please help if you are able. God bless you for reading this!

   Thirty years ago, I lost my paternal grandfather to lung cancer. I never knew him. Twenty-five years ago, I lost my paternal grandmother to emphysema. I loved her very much. Twenty years ago, I lost my father to leukemia. He was my hero. Ten years ago, I lost my maternal grandmother to heart disease. She was everyone's hero. Five years ago, my maternal grandfather was diagnosed with COPD. He is the strongest person I know. A year ago, my baby brother had his first child, and we found that the baby has a genetic dysfunction called DeGeorge Syndrome. He is truly a gift to us all. What does all this have to do with you? Everything.
    When I lost my grandfather to cancer, the national statistics were that one in five Americans would be diagnosed with the deadly disease. The cure was being tested by the FDA. It was widely known in Native American communities, but because the testing wasn't complete on it, it wasn't commercially available. By time it was my father's turn for the disease, the stats said that one in four Americans would be diagnosed. The cure had been approved for use by the FDA, but was not available commercially because it wouldn't make enough money. My father died because the price on his life was not high enough, and I was too young and ignorant to know how to help.
    Since then, I have attended more funerals than I would care to admit. The persons of honor were aged from neonatal to geriatric. Some loved ones have passed, thankfully, due to nothing more than old age, but the majority of loved ones die from illness that could have been prevented.
    According to a study done in Seattle, one vehicle driven an average of one and a half hours per day emits over seven million tons of carbon monoxide into the atmosphere. We're talking about the air we breath here! Seven million tons... and that's just the carbon monoxide. Never mind the sulfur and other gasses we are forced to breathe in for the convenience of modern society.
    A major current political uproar is the was on Iraq. We have lost too many lives in a war that most of us do not understand and that some of us disagree with passionately. We send men and women to another country on the pretense of defending their nation. These brave souls have put their lives up to protect ours.
    Being a born and raised military brat, I am in no way inclined to minimize the importance of the lives we lose to war. However, there is another enemy that has breached our defenses. Their method is one that is so subtle that we, as a society, have openly invited them into our homes. Their tactics ensure death more completely than any terrorists suicide bombing. The scariest thing about this enemy is that they are in position of power... right here on the very ground those men and women die to protect!
    Cigarette smoking has been blamed for a myriad of medical problems plaguing the US. It has been blamed for cancer, respiratory disease, heart disease, and fetal distress just to name a few. It has been blamed for economical strain due to the medical bills, injuries and property damage/loss that has taught costly lessons. Second hand smoke has been blamed for a rise in cancer. The scare is so intense that it is forcing public establishments to shuffle the evil smoking fiends outside to corners of the world where the rest of us can pretend away their existence.
    While I am, in no uncertain terms, advocating smoking, nor am I advocating its abolishment, I am here to make others aware of a larger threat to our health and economy. This threat is on the rise, pacing cancer. The instance of new smokers is falling, and yet, now, our statistical chance of being diagnosed with cancer is one in every two Americans! That is fifty percent of Americans that will be diagnosed with cancer today compared to twenty percent thirty years ago. To me, that's a scary thought considering thirty years ago, we were less aware of the health risks linked to smoking. How is it that the number one scapegoat for cancer in America is losing its allure due to all the information output about it, and yet the very diseases that it is supposed to shoulder the blame for are consistently on the rise?
    All these things led me to question just that. I wanted to know what was going on. I wanted to know how to stop the rise in cancer, and how to protect myself and my family from feeling the effects of these heart-breaking diseases. With a lot of research, I found some astonishing truths that has led to a total lifestyle transformation for me and those I love.
    What would you say if I told you that there is a threat to your life and the lives of your loved ones that resides in your home? What would you do if you knew that the exposure to such elements was brought in by you? Further still, what would you be willing to do if you found out that the supplier for these deadly chemicals is self governed, operating on an "honor system" of sorts with the USDA?
    It's true. Chemical manufacturers are allowed to use caustic (known to cause illness or disease) and even carcinogenic (known to cause cancer) chemicals in household cleaners, toothpaste, mouthwash, flooring materials, building materials, paint and even personal care products. Indeed some caustic chemicals such as sorbitol can be found in many of the prepared foods we buy on the grocery store shelf! That's right, America. We are killing ourselves for convenience... literally. These chemical companies don't care about you or your health. All they care about is their bottom line... a bottom line, I must add, that we, as a society, are filling out quite nicely for them. They prey on our obsessions with cleanliness and the rising concern with bacteria and surface borne illness. But are we really that short sighted that we would willingly trade the week long inconvenience of the common cold for a life struggle against cancer? They think we are. They think we're trusting enough to believe that they could not sell something that is harmful to us, but they can... and worse yet, they do! They think we are so compelled by blind faith in the government that we would just say, "That can't be true. The government would never allow it." Not only does the government allow it, but WE PAY FOR IT! Yes, we pay these companies to kill us! Personally, I'd think that would be sufficient evidence to make each of us guilty of murder for hire. Similarly, it would give enough evidence to warrant investigation for cold blooded murder on the parts of these companies. They KNOW the chemicals cause illness that can and often does lead to death, and yet they use them anyways. Then, with an extra boost of bravado, they have the guts to actually market these death potions as something that will make a healthier environment. Just as they expect, we, being driven by both our compulsion to keep what society has deemed "the perfect household environment" and our misguided trust in the companies to ensure our health, pay for their service by purchasing their products. All this is done while they are slowly but surely killing us one by one.
    Don't get me wrong, I am not against a clean house. Indeed, I keep a clean house and am very proud of that fact. My point is that the only reason these companies are allowed to get away with using harmful chemicals is because we allow it. We dictate to the companies what will and won't make them money. If we buy what they offer, then more power to them because they don't have to spend any of our hard earned money on revising safer, environmentally responsible products. After all, why would they when we will pay a king's ransom for the ones that cause disease? However, if we collectively refuse to use harmful chemicals in our homes, then we will force these chemical companies to either adapt or perish. Believe me, these companies are highly adaptable, and they will conform to the public outcry when it involves their bottom line. They don't want to lose your business. You are the reason they are so wealthy. So, in the end, you are the one that needs to be satisfied, and only you can change unacceptable practices which continually assault the American public.
    Here's the trick, though. These companies are not required to list their ingredients on anything that is not meant for human consumption! Despite the fact that chemicals and their residues can get into your system by way of inhalation and skin absorption as well as through mucous membranes, if it's not meant to be eaten, they don't have to tell you what's in it.
    Now... here's MY trick. The companies don't have to tell you what you're using or what residues you may be exposed to, but the government is very proficient, although fairly quiet, about chemical regulation. They keep tabs on all the chemicals used in all the products by all the companies of the US. Thanks to the US government and their right to information laws, we are able to look up the chemicals these companies use and get reliable information on their effects on our health.
    So, where do we go from here? I'm glad you asked. First off, look up my facts. Challenge me. Click on th following PDF link and check out the chemicals in cigarettes and what other common uses there are for them: PDF - What's in a cigarette? You may be surprised how much non-smokers and smokers have in common.
    Still not convinced? Check out healthychild.org by clicking the following link: Chemicals In Household Products. This will have your mind reeling for sure. Then look up the products listed there. Visit scorecard.org by clicking here: Chemical Profiles.  
    When you’re ready for a real change, click on es.epa.gov. This will give you more information from the Environmental Protection Agency about how to create a healthier home without costing you your annual salary.
    There are environmentally responsible companies out there. Companies like Amway and Melaleuca require a membership. Some of the terms for that membership may not be favorable to you. Okay. Then check your local supermarket for an organic section or health food isle. Some stores like Kroger and Wal-Mart have sections set aside for those of us who are more health conscious. If not, then a local health food stores will have products that are comparable in both performance and price. The only thing these products lack is carcinogens and other caustic ingredients. Surf the web or contact the EPA for recommendations in your area. If all else fails, contact ME and I will help you find you the products that meet both your needs and your budget.
    It is time for us to reclaim control over our bodies. It's time to tell the chemical companies that we will not populate their prisons of chemically induced biowarfare. We will not sacrifice our children at the alter of their green God. We will not support a company that has so little regard for us that they revel in our ignorance, dancing giddily on our graves while spewing lies of promised health. We can not let that happen. We're too smart for that.

I am a 30yr single mom of three (8yr, 5yr, & currently pregnant) going to school online full time to earn an Associates Degree in Criminal Justice, to be used to help the fight against child abuse.  I have been able to get a grant and loan to pay for my schooling (books and tuition), food stamps, and medicaid.  But unfortunately it has not left me money for bills and living expenses.  I do not recieve child support or afdc because I have what's called a "Good Cause Case" with the Texas attorney general.  This is because I can not let my ex know where I am at because he had molested my daughter and CPS did nothing about it.  He is still running free and abusing another child.  Naturally I would tell someone to go to work and school at the same time like everyone else, but not everyone has my problems.  I have medical problems that interfer with me doing all three things at once successfully.  I have a kidney disease that has caused me to have short and long term memory loss.  Normally this would not pose a problem but because I am pregnant I can not take my medication for Alheimers, and it has helped a lot.  I don't want to give up on school but I can not get acceptance for any loans or grants due to a voluntary repo 6yrs ago (the transmission went out on my car three months after I bought it and the company gave me the run around about fixing it so I told them to come pick it up and it is now on my credit report).  I am hoping to find someone to help me out by lending me $400 per month.  In return I am willing to sign a legal contract promising to payback the loan 6 months after graduation, just like a school loan.  I will also grant you access to my grades online so you can see the progress.
I am able to give whatever paperwork proof someone would need in regards to my health problems (kidneys disease {FSGS}, heart problems, and memory loss), college attending, and monthly bills.  Please help.  Thank you for your understanding and patience.
You may email me at StephaFo9@aol.com
Sincerely,
Stephanie Ford