Saturday, April 26, 2008

Women and Assault

You hear on the news almost every night how another woman has been attacked in a dark parking lot or on the way into their own home. Men do not faced the same threats that women face on a daily basis. Luckily there are some things you can do to protect yourself in different situations.

If you are parking in a public parking lot think about what time you will be returning to your car. If you will be returning after dark, make sure and park under a light or in a more public area.

When going to your car always have your car keys in hand and be aware of your surroundings. Many convicted rapists and attackers admit that they target women who are not looking around at their surroundings and are fumbling in their purse for their car keys.

Attackers also look for women who have their hair in a bun or pony tail because it is easy to grab .

These are just a few of the many things that you can do to protect yourself in a parking lot.

Sunday, April 20, 2008

Prison vs. Rehab

I believe that people who have drug and alcohol problems that are put into prison are failed by the system. The entire court system says that the purpose of prison is rehabilitation. If a person with a drug problem is sent to prison for a crime, but their addiction is not treated, then they have not been truly rehabilitated. If a person who has a drug problem and is sentenced to a drug rehabilitation facility that has strict rules, then I believe the crime and addiction can be addressed and the individual has the opportunity to rehabilitated with the given resources.

Sunday, April 6, 2008

Chronic Illness

I found out several years ago that I have Epstein-Barr Virus. I was diagnosed after three years of unexplained pain in my abdomen. Epstein-Barr Virus is still not viewed by most doctors as a serious condition, but after talking with some specialists, I have realized how important it is to keep under control.

The virus, if not managed, can result in major health issues. I have had to change my diet to lots of vegetables and lean proteins, and absolutely no junk food or alcohol. Some of the changes have been harder than others, but at least I have not been to the hospital for extreme pain in over a year. I truly hope that in the future Epstein-Barr Virus is taken more seriously. Many studies are coming out showing the severity of the virus and that children as young as five years old are being diagnosed.