Tis the season ladies & gents for cold & flu viruses to spread & wreak havoc throughout the land. Given the nature of what we engage in in this glorious hobby of ours I thought it a good idea to share some tips about how to avoid spreading potentially lethal viruses & yes indeed they can be lethal. My personal story is a good example.
In January two years ago I came down with what I thought was a mere case of laryngitis. No symptoms besides losing my voice. About a week into it I awoke to a slight fever. As the day progressed chills & body aches set in. No biggie I thought. Nothing some chicken soup & a couple days rest won't take care of. WRONG!
The following morning I woke up unable to breath. I was struggling for air so much my daughter who lives across the hall could hear my in her apartment. She called the ambulance & off to the hospital I was rushed. The last thing I remember of that morning is arriving at the ER. The next thing I remember is waking up in the ICU with a tube down my throat four days later. Doctors informed me I had been on a respirator for four days. My family was told to prepare. I had the flu & pneumonia. The nurse informed me later that they weren't sure I was going to make it & that two people on the unit had passed with this strain. I spent a total of 12 days in the hospital & it took the upside of two month to fully recover. Pretty scary laryngitis huh?
So you see folks you can be quite ill & not even know it. Additionally, you are spreading the virus (if it's in you) before you even have symptoms.
All this said I ask everyone to PLEASE take care of yourselves as well as one another. I've included a link that contains some great advice about how to PREVENT getting sick. Prevention (IMO) is the best medicine. If you do come down with any symptoms please take care of yourself & even if it's a simple sniffle DON'T engage in the hobby. I firmly believe we have a responsibility to ourselves & one another to look out for our health & well being.
Be safe & healthy my friends & yup..... I'm gonna say it..... HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!! Hehe