Pain Awareness Month is in the month of September and began in 2001 when the American Chronic Pain Association (ACPA) organized with over 80 groups to create awareness on pain and pain management. Chronic pain is serious and can affect everyone differently, so it’s important to be informed. It is known to be an invisible illness which comes with burden of hidden side effects. Some of the side effects from chronic pain include: Weight loss and gain Having chronic pain can cause people to struggle with maintaining their weight due. Medication used for pain management can be a huge factor with those who are having a hard time with weight loss and gain. Lack of ability to exercise is also a reas
September 10-16 is National Assisted Living Week. Established by the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) in 1995, National Assisted Living Week® provides a unique opportunity for residents, their loved ones, staff, volunteers, and the surrounding communities to recognize the role of assisted living in caring for America’s seniors and individuals with disabilities. The annual observance encourages assisted living communities around the country to offer a variety of events and activities to celebrate the individuals they serve, as well as to help educate members of the public about this distinctive aspect of long term care. “Family is Forever” is this year’s theme for National Assisted
History Amarilloan Joe Ed Coffman had been a long-time fan of Dan Fogelberg and his music, so the news of Fogelberg’s death in 2007 due to prostate cancer was a hard blow. Fogelberg had been a strong influence on Joe Ed’s own music throughout the years, so Joe Ed wanted to do something to celebrate his life and music. That desire led to the creation of a tribute concert to honor Dan Fogelberg. But, not just any concert! Joe Ed decided to create a fundraiser to benefit the cause of prostate cancer to honor Fogelberg’s life and music. The concert was a labor of love for all involved. Joe Ed gathered the very best musicians from the Amarillo area, who generously donated their time and talent. T
Dear God, help me better understand and believe I can do what needs to be done. Forgive me for the times, even now, when I question your judgment. As I go about the many daily tasks of caregiving, give me energy. As I watch my loved one oh-so-slowly walk across the room, give me strength. As I answer his/her repeated question just one more time, give me patience. As I look for solutions to whatever is the most recent concern, give me wisdom. As I reminisce with him/her about the “good old days,” give me moments of laughter over the fond memories. As I get to know my loved one in a new way, seeing both his/her strengths and frailties, give me joy. As I sit beside my loved one’s bed waiting fo
