Scleroderma Foundation - Ohio Chapter

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November 2011 Newsletter

Notes from the Oct. 2011 Central Ohio Education Day

Coping with Stress & Grieving in Long-term Illness and Disability by Barbara Brugler, LISW

THE STAGES OF GRIEF

Denial — "I feel fine." "This can't be happening, not to me." Denial is usually only a temporary defense for the individual. This feeling is generally replaced with heightened awareness of possessions and individuals that will be left behind after death.

Anger — "Why me? It's not fair!" "How can this happen to me?" '"Who is to blame?" Once in the second stage, the individual recognizes that denial cannot continue. Because of anger, the person is very difficult to care for due to misplaced feelings of rage and envy.
Bargaining — "I'll do anything for a few more years." "I will give my life savings if..." The third stage involves the hope that the individual can somehow postpone or delay death. Usually, the negotiation for an extended life is made with a higher power in exchange for a reformed lifestyle. Psychologically, the individual is saying, "I understand I will die, but if I could just do something to buy more time... "
Depression — "I'm so sad, why bother with anything?" "I'm going to die soon so what’s the point... What's the point?" "I miss my loved one, why go on?" During the fourth stage, the dying person begins to understand the certainty of death. Because of this, the individual may become silent, refuse visitors and spend much of the time crying and grieving. This process allows the dying person to disconnect from things of love and affection. It is not recommended to attempt to cheer up an individual who is in this stage. It is an important time for grieving that must be processed.
Acceptance — "It's going to be okay.” "I can't fight it, I may as well prepare for it.” In this last stage, individuals begin to come to terms with their mortality, or that of a loved one, or other tragic event.

Signs and Symptoms of Stress Overload

The following table lists some of the common warning signs and symptoms of stress. The more signs and symptoms you notice in yourself, the closer you may be to stress overload.

Stress Warning Signs and Symptoms
Cognitive Symptoms	Emotional Symptoms
Memory problems Inability to concentrate Poor judgment Seeing only the negative Anxious or racing thoughts Constant worrying	Moodiness Irritability or short temper Agitation, inability to relax Feeling overwhelmed Sense of loneliness and isolation Depression or general unhappiness
Physical Symptoms	Behavioral Symptoms
Aches and pains Diarrhea or constipation Nausea, dizziness Chest pain, rapid heartbeat Loss of sex drive Frequent colds	Eating more or less Sleeping too much or too little Isolating yourself from others Procrastinating or neglecting responsibilities Using alcohol, cigarettes, or drugs to relax Nervous habits (e.g. nail biting, pacing)

Keep in mind that the signs and symptoms of stress can also be caused by other psychological and medical problems. If you’re experiencing any of the warning signs of stress, it’s important to see a doctor for a full evaluation. Your doctor can help you determine whether or not your symptoms are stress-related.
Things that influence your stress tolerance level

Your support network – A strong network of supportive friends and family members is an enormous buffer against life’s stressors. On the flip side, the more lonely and isolated you are, the greater your vulnerability to stress.
Your sense of control – If you have confidence in yourself and your ability to influence events and persevere through challenges, it’s easier to take stress in stride. People who are vulnerable to stress tend to feel like things are out of their control.
Your attitude and outlook – Stress-hardy people have an optimistic attitude. They tend to embrace challenges, have a strong sense of humor, accept that change is a part of life, and believe in a higher power or purpose.
Your ability to deal with your emotions – You’re extremely vulnerable to stress if you don’t know how to calm and soothe yourself when you’re feeling sad, angry, or afraid. The ability to bring your emotions into balance helps you bounce back from adversity.
1. Your knowledge and preparation – The more you know about a stressful situation, including how long it will last and what to expect, the easier it is to cope. For example, if you go into surgery with a realistic picture of what to expect post-op, a painful recovery will be less traumatic than if you were expecting to bounce back immediately.
2. Sense of humor, accept that change is a part of life, and believe in a higher power or purpose.

Reynoldsburg "Stepping Out to Cure Scleroderma" 2011

We had a lovely day for walking, and of course loads of room inside for our busy, busy event. Folks were buying 50/50 raffle tickets and tickets for our very popular, very large pick-a-prize drawing. There was a ton of food on hand from several sponsors, and the many people who donated their talents to our bake sale. Special folks were also selling their crafts to completely benefit the chapter, including jewelry and soaps.

Thanks to all who joined us for the afternoon, our INCREDIBLE volunteers and our wonderful sponsors.

More photos

And even more photos!

Public Awareness at the Clippers Game on 6.26.11

Laurie Holden, Chapter Coordinator for SF Ohio, talks to public about scleroderma at Huntington Park in Columbus.

Aguirre Scholarship Winners Announced

The Board of Directors of the Ohio Chapter are pleased to announce the winners of the 2011 Rosita Aguirre Scholarship. For the first time the Ohio Chapter is able to send four applicants to the National Conference. The winners are:

Susan Cupples
Jerri Sue DeTray
Rahel Leggesse
Demeshia Trice

Congratulations to you all! See you at the Conference in July in San Francisco.