It's no secret that there's much room for improvement in the Niagara Penninsula, when it comes to professional and accurate health care, as I discovered first hand. When I had my TIA/ mini-stroke scare, I saw what a terrible lack of communication there is amongst our local hospitals. And when I had my follow-up appointment with a grumpy old cardiologist a week ago, I once again was reminded of the sad state Niagara's health care system is in.
Fortunately, there are exceptions to this rule. My family physician is Dr. W. Oelofse (more commonly referred to as "Dr. O".) He has been my doctor for several years now and no matter what my issue may be, Dr. O has always been caring, courteous and professional. He was there for me a few years back when I was suffering from depression and he has been there for me through all my neck pain issues. Dr. O takes my concerns seriously and always makes me look on the positive side of things. He makes me laugh and he relieves my concerns.
Although numerous tests have ruled out that what I experienced a while back was NOT a stroke (WHEW!) unfortunately my nerve burning treatments in Toronto have not relieved my chronic neck pain. Dr. O has ordered additional MRI's and prescribed something more heavy duty to deal with my "heavy duty" pain. He hasn't given up on me and that in turn makes me feel better about where things are at.
Kudo's to Dr. Oelofse, a rare gem in Niagara's health system. He truly is a remarkable doctor and I'm grateful to be one of his patience.
I was always taught to respect my elders,
But it keeps getting harder to find one.
Household Tips
- To determine whether or not your eggs are fresh, immerse them in a pan of cool water. If an egg sinks, it fresh: if it rises to the surface, toss it
- After you cook potatoes, save the water (it will keep in the fridge for a few days) and use it in soups, breads or anything that calls for extra liquid. The potato starch adds body and nutritional benefits- To disinfect slimy, smelly sponges or dishcloths, soak them overnight in a mild bleach solution or a mixture of half vinegar and half water. Run them through the dishwasher, or soak them and nuke in the microwave for a minute. Careful – let them cool before you pick them up!
- Sprinkle kitty litter in the bottom of your garbage pail to absorb odors and any liquid that might leak out of the bottom of the bag
- To make your house smell wonderful, sprinkle cinnamon on a square of aluminum foil and place it in a hot oven; turn off the heat and open the door slightly. It’s better than potpourri!
- If your cookbook won’t lie flat, lay a glass baking dish over it – you can read through the glass