Thursday, November 28, 2024

2024 Week 23: Health

            Health is very important to me.  It is amazing to learn how much of our health issues are inherited from family.

Alcoholism, COPD, congestive heart failure, diabetes, and cancer are some of the things that seem to be prevalent in my family tree.  I have learned that diet and exercise can play a key role in reducing or delaying these illnesses.

Because of alcoholism and my own experience with drinking, I don’t touch alcohol.  My son didn’t even want to take the chance of having the gene.  He became the designated driver for all his Navy buddies.  My brother was killed in a drunk driving accident – he was one of the passengers.  He and his buddies were out celebrating 21s and should not have gotten behind the wheel.  My maternal grandfather (and his sons) also had a drinking problem.  Did that go further back?  I don’t know. 

Some health issues are related to environment – I grew up around smokers but never took up the habit myself.  I have learned that it had a major effect on my health.  I couldn’t believe the first winter I lived away from home – no major colds/bronchitis.  And when I was around smokers, I started to get stuffed up and not able to breathe.  That’s when I realized I was allergic to cigarette smoke.  I also have other allergies like strong floral fragrances, fresh flowers or real Christmas trees when indoors.

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