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UPDATED.
Following a vast amount of feedback we have received over the last few days and to help support everyone who is feeling concerned or alone, we have rebranded the Positive Wellbeing community as a space for people to connect with others who are self isolating or in social distancing phase.
Me too - I am in isolation as I am in the at risk group so if any body needs a chat I'm here! Take care everybody - even if the government doesn't think so we ALL Matter!
Hi Rosei, I've just logged on an found your post. I am so sorry you are in isolation, I hope you are managing to cope. Are you on your own? My husband and I are also in isolation as we are over 70 so in the 'at risk' group. He is very chesty and gets bronchitis and pneumonia quite easily and I have not been well with different viruses for a while so could do without this one. I see you mention that you have Covid 19 in your family and they are also in isolation too. I do hope they are not too poorly. I wonder if you could tell me the symptoms they are experiencing with the virus. My daughter is very asthmatic and has been all her life. She is strong bodily but had pneumonia badly some years ago and was very ill. We live in the UK and they have not shut the schools down yet and my daughter works in a girls school. She is adamant that she must go into work as she needs the money and will not get paid if she stops going in. I am beside myself with worry about what will happen to her if she gets this virus. I fear she may die if there are not enough respirators to go around. She won't listen to me. Her life is more important than this job I feel. Please would you tell me how your family are coping with this dreadful virus. I hope you don't mind me asking you. I hope you are managing and have enough supplies to keep you going. Sorry to trouble you, I just felt I needed to ask somebody who may know how people are coping with this awful virus. Thank you for reading this.
I think many of us share your worries about family. My daughter and son in law are dentists, and dealing with droplet infection from mouths all day. The latest info for them is not to use anything using sprays, so no drilling or suction. Another daughter Is actioning safe distance and not picking up customers for the Car hire co She works for, although the company says this practice should continue. Now they’re sacking the car cleaners and asking her and her staff to do it. More droplet infection. Her asst manager called in saying she was self isolating. I’ve told her to do the same. But like your daughter she has mortgage etc. They are adults and we have to respect their decisions, and offer any support we can. My grandchildren are at school. Only yesterday my granddaughter asked how old I was. Then said ‘but granny your 70 not over 70.’ I hear the stress in their voices, and try to keep them and myself calm. I have cried and prayed, like us all. These measures are buying time, until some drug can alleviate the bodies reaction to this virus.
Try 478 breathing for calming, try simple tai chi moves. Have a large G&T (Not too many). Try and find something on tv to distract the mind. I knit, although my tension is a bit tight at the moment 😬. Scream into your pillow if you have to.
Remember, We are all scared, but most people will recover, 🤗🤗😘
Hello Granola4, Thank you for your reply to my message. How are you managing? I feel for you so with your daughter and son-in-law both being dentist's and dealing with all that it entails at the moment and your other daughter working for a car hire company. It's very awkward if they are expecting her to clean the cars out now. It's very hard to walk out of a job when you need the money to pay the bills and mortgage.
It is very concerning for us being isolated and not being able to do anything about it. As you say they are adults and we cannot make decisions for them now but nevertheless, we cannot stop worrying about them.
I felt your pain when you said you had cried and prayed. I know the feeling! I pray each night that somehow we will all come through this. It's awful isn't it? As mother's we will never stop worrying about our children. My eldest daughter is nearly 50 and the youngest 48. I have a Grandaughter of 16 and a Grandson of 9. My Grandaughter asked what would happen to her if my daughter and son-in-law died! I felt so sad, poor girl, what must be going through her mind. She is very sensible but it's obviously crossed her mind. My son-in-law is 65 so an older father with health problems at the moment so it's all up in the air!
I had to smile when you said "Have a G&T but not too many!" I can't drink as I have migraines but manage to try and relax by reading and I'm doing quite a lot of research about my Grandfather who was killed in WW1 so I occupy my mind with different things and have plenty of drawers and cupboards that need clearing out so not short of things to do. I also smiled when you said you were knitting but your tension is a bit tight at the moment! We have to smile and carry on and take one day at a time. I always think of how my mother coped during the war for 6 years when my Father was away from home and she had my brother to look after with very little money and had to make ends meet by planting her back garden with vegetables and the rationing was so strict. They even ate the tops of the broads beans as a vegetable. My Mother was very resourceful, calm and resolute through all life's troubles. I feel I must also be here for my family too whilst they are going through such difficult times and facing tough decisions.
You are right, we are all scared but I am sure we will get through this and come out the other side..... thinking of you .....
Doing ok, I’m lucky I have a garden to sit in. So youngest daughter round, with prescription, it was sunny, so we sat in garden 4m apart. She’ll make her decision at weekend.
Other daughter only had one patient she can only offer an extraction really. Similar for her husband. They laughed at me a couple of weeks ago when I said, I’ve my honey, lemon, ginger and garlic/firm believer in honey and lemon. So 7 year old granddaughter made up this song
Honey honey honey
Take your honey every day
This is what my granny says
It will make corona go away
Honey honey honey
I was impressed. She’s very upset school is closed.
They’re in touch, so by the time my brother in Oz, other brother in Scotland, son in Ireland all get in touch it’s ok. A friend walked round and we sat in garden - far apart - she brought her flask and I made my own so we had a bit of a laugh.
We’ve got to keep our spirits up as best we can. Your correct about our parents time. My dad was in N Africa Sicily and Anzio. The hunger and poverty in Sicily was dreadful. He was subsequently injured in Anzio, blown up the four guys with him died. He was one of the first people to receive penicillin, they gave it to the troops first. Terrible times. They survived. So it’s really keep calm and carry on, trite but true,
Hello again Granula4, I am pleased to hear you are doing ok and have seen your daughter today and you were able to sit in the garden. You will be glad when she has made her decision over the weekend.
I think it's very wise that your other daughter is just doing extractions only now.
How lovely your Grandaughter made up the little poem about honey, bless her, it's very good. We feel very proud when our Grandchildren do such special things for us. It's such a shame schools have had to close early but I think it's for the best.
My youngest daughter also works in a school as a support worker for the vulnerable children and thinks she will be asked to carry on working so she will be in the front line. She called around to see us earlier with my Mother's Day flowers and present a bit early as she may not be able to get here Sunday. She stood outside and put the flowers on the doorstep etc. I was relieved when she said she is rethinking her position now as she is very concerned about the way things are changing from hour to hour and the risk involved.
It's good you have such a lovely big family who will all be in touch via the media and you can all keep in touch. That's what we need for support at a time like this.
Your Dad was lucky to survive being blown up in Anzio, we were so fortunate they came home after so many years of war. My Dad was also in North Africa and Italy too.
Yes, we must keep calm and carry on, that's the way forward. Take care of yourself.
It’s a lovely sunny day, so out in garden for a bit. My Mother’s Day gift just arrived, by post, daughter posted it yesterday so I’ll open it on FaceTime on Sunday.
Out of interest which regiment was your dad in? Mine was in the Green Howard’s- Yorkshire regiment.
I'm pleased your Mother's Day gift arrived yesterday. It's a shame we can only talk to our family on Face Time etc. on Mother's Day.
It's been a lovely sunny day here today but we've had a very chilly wind, I live on the east coast.
It's interesting to hear that your Dad was in the Green Howard's, I have heard of them. They have a long and distinguished history I believe. My Dad was in the 5th Army. It is just possible their paths could have crossed. I have photos of my Dad taken with other soldiers but of course I have no idea who they were and will never know now. I so wished I had asked him more about what happened during the war. I think they just wanted to forget it and didn't talk about it much. There is so much I would like to know.
I hope you are able to catch up with your family tomorrow and catch up. We must stay strong and safe, take care.
Lovely to hear from you. Dad and uncles never spoke of what they’d seen to their families, i think to protect them, once it’s in your head it’s there for good. They spoke amongst themselves about it.
Yes my gift was lovely body lotion and a face mask 😷, they have a sense of humour.
Other daughter organised a WhatsApp conference call Last night.she held a quiz night, my team name was O sole Mio, I came second.
It’s a lovely day today so I’m going out to scarify the grass.
How lovely your daughter organised a WhatsApp conference last night and you had a quiz. Such a super idea, perhaps we will be able to organise one with our family to keep in touch, it will keep everybody busy.
Your body lotion was a lovely treat on Mother's Day and also a mask too, it may come in very useful. I would add a smiley face but my computer doesn't seem to have that facility.
My youngest daughter visited a couple of nights ago with some pots of Tete-a-Tate little daffs and a bag of goodies, she left them on the step and we talked at a distance. The goodies were books and a lovely tin of M&S tea and coffee in case we need it, very practical. My other daughter sent flowers and another book, so plenty of reading material.
It seems that all men who served during the war never talked about what they experienced, all too upsetting for them to remember and us to witness their distress so they buried it and tried to get on with life.
I hope you managed to scarify your grass today, it was good to get out in the garden I'm sure. It's been a super day here too but still very cold. Stay strong and safe .....
Well, cut grass, scarified for hour, then had cuppa and did a crossword. Sunshine was lovely, lightened the mood a bit. We’re very fortunate to have such caring children. 😘🤗
It must have been so therapeutic to have cut your grass and scarified it too. It makes you feel better to get out in the fresh air especially if the sun is shining and the birds are singing. Yes, so very fortunate to have children that care about us ......
When did the Government actually say some don't matter.Seems like the usual left wing mantra from the bottom of the heart. Labour love it when they can state they'd promise whatever anyone asks for as long as it costs them individually nothing. They've always loved spending our money... wastefully.
Hi I’m in isolation and it’s rather lonely at the moment. I can’t get to my surgery but luckily my nurse that dose my INR is coming to me on Friday. It’s hard not seeing anyone specially my family but I’m in heart failure and need to stay out of the way and stay safe
Hi buddy2blue, I am sorry to hear of your situation. It must be lonely but at least you have this online community for support. Take care and stay safe.
No it hasn’t but my dad is not very keen for me to go as he wants me to stay safe and mimamise my risk as much as posable. He phoning the freeman today and seeing what’s happening
So many of us in isolation now but contact through this site will be a little helpful won't it?
I have Sjogrens, rheumatoid arthritis, Reynaud's and always a questionable Lupus.
I also have Orthostatic Tremor. I am on Methotrexate and Plaquenil (which has just been increased to 400mg daily) However! I am mostly ok and am mostly careful re what I eat as the bowel problems can be a nightmare!! Soldier on and reading these posts helps and is supportive. I haven't seen my family for a couple of weeks and know it is now going to be much longer! 😊
Hi buddy2blue, I think there are a lot of us in isolation but if your alone it's even harder. I wish we could all get together and have a little fun but I know that's not possible. If you want to talk or just need someone to listen I'm here. Take care and I hope all goes well for you.
Me too - I am in self-isolation because I'm also in the at-risk category due to being 31 weeks pregnant. If anyone needs anything feel free I have lots of time on my hands!
I find it strange information differs between countries. First it was on the list, then they draw it back. Maybe they think here pregnancy does not weaken the immune system.
If anyone needs advice about how you can cope with being at home a lot or alone I might be able to advise about strategies etc. (For me, it’s the opposite-I need advice and support about going out and being/communicating with other people if anyone wants to help me too I would be grateful
I am still working full time in healthcare I have RA and take methotrexate and hydroquinine can't spell it ha should I self isolate I'm feeling ok don't know what to do for best
Don't worry about spelling it...just type Plaquenil....much easier!
Isolate? Depends where you are and what your own doctor advises.
I've been self isolating for2wks now and can only speak to my health support by phone.
Can't see the family of course. Because of methotrexate giving us a compromised immune system my Dr said to isolate. I'm also elderly which puts me in high risk. Stay safe! ☺
Thank you. I may need some advice, currently I’m still working but that could change at any moment, and the thought of isolation scares me a lot. I just can’t keep my mind off this worrisome news.
Don’t worry. Don’t forget if someone is in isolation for the corona virus it is only a short isolation at a physical distance. We are still all connected and you can still maybe chat online or something similar. It’s not like being locked up in a mental hospital for months or years away from your family. Some people have to do that. I have to say isolation completely by myself doesn’t scare me but if I had to be in isolation with another person and if that person were mean to me I would then be scared.
Thanks. I like to be around people even if I don’t know them. I don’t have many friends and I’m not close to my family. If I get sick I have no one who could help me, get me things etc. And my elderly aunt lives with me so I worry about her. I don’t like just sitting in my house.
I don’t have friends and not close to most of my family. You could just read a lot- do you like reading? Reading really can distract people from things. I’ve been studying a lot as usual. There’s an interesting series I’ve been watching this week on Netflix called letter for the king. I recommend it.
Maybe you could put a note through some of your neighbours doors telling them that you hope they are ok and if they need anything you’ll try to help and then maybe if you needed help as well they could help you-so that is the best way -give and take, helping eachother. We need to let people know we’re there to help and hopefully they’ll give back too or if we can’t help others then we need to only ask for help. Neighbours can be nice people. I have some nice neighbours. Do you know your neighbours?
Hi Thank you. I know a couple of my neighbors, we usually say hi to each other on the way to the car or house. Sometimes I engage in small talk it just seems everyone is so busy with their own lives. I don’t want them to think I’m some kind of weirdo loner who has his elderly aunt living with him. 😆
It seems years ago people were friendlier, when I was growing up we knew all the neighbors on the block and everyone looked out for each other.
I do like reading as well. I made the smart choice of getting a couple books out of the library a couple weeks ago before they closed. This Covid19 is really playing havoc with my anxiety, everything we took for granted has been turned upside down.
Yesss I love Netflix if you can recommend some shows. I tend to flip from one show to the next. It all depends what I feel like watching.
Don't worry about being isolated! Think of it as "me time!" Write yourself a list of things that need doing like tidying the cupboards (boring I know) go through your clothes etc. Rewards in between like watching a movie. You can do it! Do you like cooking? I like reading and hand sewing and am so far behind with journal writing and photo sorting. I haven't seen my family for 3wks but can speak to them and friends on the phone.
Hi Sylvi. Sometimes when I get anxious I go into shut down mode and that's where I am today.
I didn't go to work. I'm 64 with diabetes but my patient is a quadraplegic so he's at high risk too. His parents are always with him. I don't feel his mother is being vigilant enough with the virus. And his sister is a manicurist who is in the house often. So I'm struggling with whether or not I should go to work at all. I provide no medical care. I just feed him and do laundry and such.
There are a million things I could do at home and I do have people I text and talk with. But it's still hard to be alone. I do go out for groceries but that's of course anxiety producing too.
Not sure if this is the kind of chat you were looking for.
Hi RosePhilip, have you asked your doctor about continuing to work? I think your risking your health by taking care of someone whose family has no regard for safety. And his sister being a manicurist is very risky, she's constantly touching people's hands and at a close distance. While I can't tell you what to do I want you to be safe. If you need to vent or anything feel free to message me. Take care my friend.
Can anyone explain to me why we are supposed to stay indoors rather than get out alone and take a healthy walk in fresh air? Surely it is better to get out of the closed environment at home and breath uncontaminated air? If we live in the country it is easy to go for a walk and keep well away from other people.
From what I understand, it is okay to go for a walk as long as it’s not a crowded area. As always, double check with you doctor, but I find that I need to get out and just take a walk around the block.
I'm self-isolating as I've been unwell for weeks and I'm at risk. However, I go out every day for a short walk (about 30 mins) and it is helping, as at work I'm very sedentary anyway. I'm lucky that I live in a small village and there are never too many people around. I do pass people but figure the chances of me catching it from them are slight. I worry that the advice to stay indoors will not keep people well. If you have a garden I suggest walking around in the sunshine outdoors far outweighs the risks of getting seriously ill from this thing by staying indoors all the time.
As Lisa says, the advice in the statement yesterday specifically said it was ok to go out for exercise. Just try to keep a distance. Easy if you are in the countryside!
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My husband is 86 with AF and breathlessness and I am 80 with Asthma and Diabetes. We go out at 7am and drive down to the coastal walk, only 30 mins drive, see nobody and it does us the power of good. Being indoors all the time can mean we can get on each other’s nerves at times, crosswords, reading, anything to take your ,ind off things helps.
I'm also in isolation because of my age and compromised immune system. Only yesterday I thought that I could easily drive to the coast to a lovely ocean view lookout without interacting with anyone! I can no longer walk for exercise so this could help with cabin fever!
Here in Aus we are just coming into our lovely autumn so we must keep positive! All the best. 😊
You have a lovely country so it is good you can still drive and go somewhere where you are isolated but can enjoy the fresh air and the view.
We have been told not to drive anywhere unless necessary for food or meds, but that I think is a bit of overkill. As long as one is in the car and don’t mix with anybody it won’t spread the virus and would improve both health and mind.
I agree, problem is they are not giving us enough basic info. I have 3 dogs and have been checking about pets, I have found some websites that have said dogs may be carriers but nobody knows because this is a brand new virus. If pets are carriers then they could spread it around the park, streets etc. I live in the country so my husband is taking them out once a day instead of their usual 3 times and when they come back I am making them stand by the gate and walk through a bowl of weak solution hibiscrub, Hopefully that way if dogs are carriers they are getting exercise but we are all still keeping safe.
That's what I think but scientific websites are saying that because pets are mammals they have the same vital organs as us and as they don't know enough about coronavirus they feel that there could be a slight possibility. Just seems sensible to me to err on the side of caution.
Hi- According to the American Kennel Club in the USA -Cats and dogs are not carriers nor can be infected with the Corona Virus-take the pups for their walk but keep your distance from other people-be safe -stay well.
How can they state categorically that cats and dogs are not carriers, when nobody knows how far this awful virus reaches and if it is only infecting humans. I agree that people should go out and take their pets for a walk but to use common sense. We are not letting ours off the lead now because they are very cute little dogs and everybody that sees them wants to stroke them - thus causing cross contamination. My husband is avoiding people if he sees them but if my dogs are off the lead they could run over to say hello, then when they come back from a walk after being stroked by a person with the virus we take their harnesses off - as quick as that cross contamination! Staying on a lead and dipping their feet in a weak solution of hibiscrub seems sensible to me. Take Care everybody!
Dog lived in a household where some one died of coronavirus, the virus was in his nose alone, scientist say that it is doubtful in the extreme that the dog could spread the virus. Scare mongering is the cause of thousands of dogs being abandoned , euthanized or cruelly put to death.
There were two things being mentioned in the thread: one is that dogs can't catch it the other is can they spread it. I was replying to that dogs can catch it. Whether they can spread it, I cannot say as I am not involved in research around Covid-19. I am just making sure that as a family we are being more vigilant around keeping our animal friends safe. They do not go outside so, we are making sure we do not inadvertently pass anything to them. One has breathing difficulties as it is.
If you read the MSN diary of the British teacher in Wuhan, you will see that while he was suffering with the virus his kitten also got sick and then died. My partner's daughter's cat also got very sick but the vet saved him. This might all be coincidence, of course but there is enough to suggest that the animals might catch it. We just have to take no chances if we have pets.
That;s encouraging news - thank you that puts my mind at rest, let's face it scientists spout a load of differing opinions - you don't know what to believe!
In my opinion, natural (preferably low polluted) fresh air is vitally important to stay healthy and also to recover from illness in most cases. Just try to stay away from most other people, especially if you are ill or if you know or suspect that the person you might have visited is ill
As I understand it we are allowed to go for a walk outside, as long as we keep our distance from others. I can’t walk well, and am in isolation as over 70 and have underlying health issues, but have a garden I can go out in when weather nice.
Am planning to use this time in a positive way, we’ll thats my good intentions!!
Thank you for replying. I have a lot of shrubs in the garden, camellias giving colour at present, and the azaleas later on are my favourites.
I am very fortunate that my son cuts the grass for me. I help him in other ways.
My daughter called round earlier, sat outside on the patio with a cuppa, and I had the door open to the garden, so we could chat. Oh dear 3 months is a long time, but better to be alive!
I do realise I am so fortunate having family not far away, plenty do not. What about you?
I can’t walk much, as last September I had an event resulting in a torn Achilles’ tendon, not picked up at the time. I asked for a scan, reply was that itwas only a strained muscle.that was at the local Hospital Urgent Treatment Centre . Only after weeks of physio, he was so worried not improving, a lower limb specialist put me in a boot and ordered a scan
Had this Dec 20th, 3 months after the event! result, complete tear with 2.8 cams gap! I am left with my quality of life severely affected as you can imagine. Oh sorry to go on a bit! It’s being hard to accept it!
Hang in there! Don't feel bad about having a whinge as we all need to do it so we can support each other! I can't walk for exercise but can go outside with my walker and can drive to admire an ocean view.....and without being near people! We have a long way to go yet so we must stay positive! Sorry about your achilles disaster as I know it's a long road from my own experience. 😀
Oh nice I love gardens my grandma had a beautiful garden growing up awe the smell from it especially the gardenias ❤️❤️ I hope one day ur able to share a picture of ur garden ❤️
Where about do you live? Have you a garden? Or countryside nearby?
I’m limited with walking, so really appreciate getting outside. Are you self isolating, and how are you going to fill the hours? How I wish I had a dog for company, my lovely choc lab died a few years ago. How lovely she was too.
Im in pikeville Tennessee usa and Im n a apartment building n no not self isolation yet but I’m keeping a social distance i got to go to doctors Thursday then I’ll be in my house for awhile I love getting outside n the sun too but we are in a rainy time right now I have a springer spaniel she is a great dog where are u from?
From what you write I cannot see why you could not take a walk out in the country, I think it would do you good, especially if the sun is shining, get Vit C, clear and calm your mind, give the body exercise I say go for it....
Hi Veriterc, I agree with you, here in France we are in *lockdown*, absolutely forbidden to go outside unless letting dog out for a tinkle, you risk a huge fine. I have taken this to mean only in the cities and as I live pretty isolated I have just taken my dogs for a forest walk, drove them there, 6kms away, had the obligatory paperwork (for any one with a *condition* or needing to go to work) with me in case I bumped into a gendarme. I am in the highly vulnerable group, over 70, 30% lung function and on max oxygen when moving about,, BUT I am determined to keep what lung function I have left in the best working order I can so I walk every day, on a good day I can do 4kms, on a bad I struggle with 500 metres and if I stop for several days I can hardly get past the lethargy. Locked in I would go berserk I think.
So good to be in touch with others in isolation. You are in France! I'm in Australia and isolating as I'm elderly and have a compromised immune system. Stay strong as we have a long way to go yet! Your health sounds more difficult than mine but we must do as advised. Love that you sneaked off to the forest with your dogs!! 🐕🐩
Sadly, the lack-lustre performances by Bojo and Matt Hancock 'implied' that if self-isolating this meant staying indoors. I am glad that this Forum seems to agree with me that it is essential we over-70s keep mobile, and that means taking exercise sensibly, not staying indoors 24/7. However, as a journalist I am worried that the politicians aren't thinking things through when they pontificate at press conerences - a very amusing article in today's Telegraph seems to agree!
From what I understood , the advise was to keep away from crowded place and mixing with people but to exercise wether at home if possible or go for a walk for fresh air to help boost immunity. I am self isolating myself as I am 67 and have chronic disease however I go for a walk everyday but keep distance from people
Veriterc, I don't see why you can't get out for a walk by yourself, that's what their suggesting here in Texas. It was on the news tonight. You can do face time with a friend or family member if you want company.
Well done Texas! In UK we have our Prime Minister running around pontificating, and he implied that we should stay indoors when self-isolating. I suppose if you live in a high-rise multi-occupancy building that makes sense, but not if you live in a country village surrounded by fields! However, he may have been following advice from Italy or Spain, where police are sending people home unless they have official reason to be outdoors.
Hi veritec, I blame Matt Hancock's comments on the Andrew Marr show last Sunday which made us believe we were all to remain on lockdown for 'up to four months'. It was another of the clumsy statements made with no thought for proper understanding or people's feelings.
Worry not! The advice for now anyway is to, by all means, go out for a walk, but distance yourself from others and stay away from crowded places. I hope that helps.
It's nice to know you think the same. I didn't see Hancock on the Marr show, but have seen him elsewhere, and the kindest comment I can make is he reminds me of a rabbit caught in the glare of headlamps. Oh for a politician with some backbone!
I don’t think they make like they used to, unfortunately verities!
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When I heard the thing about the over 70s being isolated for 4 months thing I had thought are they trying to kill them off through boredom?
With respect that was a silly idea!
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Agreed catgirl1976. It was as clumsy, blunt and thoughtless as that statement from Boris Johnson, about the predicted death toll. It's one thing to be open and honest. It's another to demoralise people and suggest ridiculous measures that can't be followed through. It's the new age of speak first and spend the next week mopping up the damage from the fear and panic spread by your thoughtless words!
Hi I live on my own have asthma, diabetes and immuno suppressed. I now have no one to get me the things I need. So situation looking bleak. Kind regards Jane
Hi Possum, I have a couple of friends who live on the IOW and I know they will help you. One lives in Freshwater. I could put her in touch with you if you need.
Hi jane Hope you are well, i am very worried about all this i have a rare cystic lung disease my gas transfer is 26 per cent and take immuno suppressants , dont know what im going to do, i amy have to pull kids out of school but i cant stop them seeing everyone
There might be locally-organised groups in the IOW who will help with fetching things - Facebook groups are spreading the word here (N Ireland). Churches and social groups may be able to help too - do contact them.
I lived on the island for over 50years now live in Warwickshire. Just been shopping to Tesco, madhouse, wore disposable gloves for trolley, made me feel sick the way people are acting. On 3mg pred ,worried about immune system as I am 70 ....the magic number.
I just went to Sainsburys omg the shelves are empty. Surely rationing should be applied now. I can now see even if someone could shop for me what would they be able to buy. Now really worried. Kind regards Jane
I'm just back from Sainsbury's after going on line a couple of days ago, to find there were no slots available. Tesco the same - you have to book a week ahead, so we went out (had a clinic appointment anyway). My partner is Type 1 diabetic and needs his carbs. There wasn't one potato (or bag of rice) in the store. We went to Tesco and none there either but he found some trays of ready-prepared ones and we brought back three trays. How can you stockpile spuds before they start sprouting? honestly. I have my doubts about buying three trays as we don't have a massive refrigerator. The shelves are empty. We didn't go to stockpile, just a normal shop. I will have to order online ready for next week. It will save me the struggle to load the trolley and then the car, as well as (hopefully) ensuring we can buy vegetables and other requirements.
I was OK until Monday. First the pm's speech re social isolating, then arriving at an orchestra rehearsal, which according to previous e mails had a stand in conductor , to find it cancelled. Had a good chat to the guy who went to turn people away. But my social life revolves around gatherings. I don't have visitors or close friends nearby and the only time I speak to anyone else is at these gatherings. I have no one to phone for a chat and although used to isolation in a lot of ways, will find the lack of contact with people really hard. I have a waving relationship with most neighbours and stop and chat with a couple but it is clear they want to keep their distance,
Initially, sounds strange, but hoped I could be involved in some kind of local volunteer effort. There is nothing. I checked on an elderly neighbour who's bin had been out for more than a day a few years ago and think I offended him! Informed me of a holiday and clearly has far more social support than I do.
Same goes for other neighbours, possibly most people. I wonder if people sense this. I can get on well with people at a superficial level but have struggled to make any real friends.
Topped off a bad Monday evening with Tesco's. Felt post apocalypse and on top of the fact I may not speak to anyone for the time of the social gathering ban just felt stunned. There was nothing left. I mostly eat fresh food bought a few days before eating but always have some frozen stuff, cans, pasta, rice etc to last about a week. But some items are ingredients eg kidney beans.
Ended up buying from the only protein there- nuts as no fresh or frozen meat or poultry and a bag of frozen salmon. There was no carbohydrate so bought muesli as the only breakfast cereal left. All the leftover items were expensive.
Thought if this panic buying continues people on a low income will starve.
Glad that Sainsburys have an hour of over 70's only when they first open on a Thursday.
Plus Tesco's, went very early this morning, have limits on some items. Still no toilet rolls/ cleaning products or rice and pasta.
I could almost have written this myself! I am supposed to be in Morocco for a holiday tomorrow but flights are canceled. Was due to play in a concert on 4th April but that has now, unsurprisingly, been canceled. Why couldn't they let you know not to go to your rehearsal?
So, since we now have unscheduled time at home ahead of us, we had to go shopping yesterday. We live in the sticks, so certainly don't go every day but we had a clinic appointment so we dropped in to Sainsbury's. Yes- post-apocalyptic. My partner is Type 1 diabetic and relies heavily on potatoes and bread to keep his blood sugar up. There were no potatoes and no flour, no rice even. We spent a fortune on other stuff and then dropped into Tesco to see if they had any spuds. Well, no, but we found some trays of roasting potatoes in amongst the fresh veg. We've brought three trays home and I'm just hoping they stay fresh long enough to eat them. I'm vegetarian and couldn't find any Quorn mince or pieces that we are running out of, but since we weren't expecting to be here, it hasn't been a worry. I've just tried to order online at Sainsbury's - no slots, no Quorn. I tried to order online at Tesco and they have Quorn but not the mince. No slots. I've been doing that nearly all day up to 3 pm.
We are both over 75 but shopping-wise, we have the same chance as everyone else, except that we haven't been stockpiling, but how on earth are we supposed to stay away from the shops if we can't order online, even three weeks ahead? Our neighbours will help if they are around, but I was more worried about them as they'd just returned from Spain and we hadn't seen them. We always keep a good stock of stuff because of our distance from towns. My partner got some toilet rolls in Sainsbury's (that I didn't think we needed desperately) just as they were about to be loaded onto the shelves, so it seems if you are there at the right moment it is possible to get popular items.
I am also a bit of a hermit. My partner is blind and deaf so there's little communication between us, and I have at least one friend with whom I exchange emails, often several times a day (we both hate the phone - is this a violinist thing?) I really need to get moving but the laptop is literally my window on the world. If I didn't have it I think I would go mad but it makes me very sedentary. I get exhausted doing housework, so I have to pace myself where that's concerned, and I'm hoping the weather will be more conducive to walking soon. Having said that, the roads here are not walker-friendly but we could go for a drive somewhere and then walk.
I'm barely awake at theSupermarkets' time allotted to the elderly. Hopefully, all the selfish stockpilers will soon have all that they need and the rest of us will have a chance. Well, maybe we'll all come out of this better in many ways. We will have learned new skills, been creative with the skills we have and become much more caring as a race. Thanks for the "rant invitation"!
To be honest, I'm not as disappointed as my partner; the second week would have been touring. We did it a couple of years ago and I had trouble with the steps on the buses. I am less able to cope now and my partner is even more needy. Still, sunshine and a change of scenery would have been nice. I just hope he books something easier next time.
I have a regular Asda delivery. I usually order on Sunday for delivery on Monday afternoon. The order I placed on Monday will not be delivered until the 27th March! Who are the people who have filled all the slots before then? Are they all self-isolating or vulnerable?
Unable to get slots at either Tesco or Sainsbury's, I left orders online. When I returned to them, I found my trolley depleted. Items that were available are no longer available, even though I haven't yet managed to get a slot. I can drive to the shops but I may be putting myself at risk and still not get what I need. I am wondering whether my orders will trigger the availability of a slot after four weeks.
Hi Jane, try putting a card through neighbours letterbox. Ask if anyone could help with food collecting for you. I'm sure someone will be happy to help. God bless
Hi Jane, sorry to hear you are on your own in these uncertain times. Please check with your local social services or neighbourhood watch. In Tameside where I live, social services have contacted all neighbour watch co-ordinators and asked for the details of any vulnerable neighbours in the area. They are also asking for volunteers to contact these people on a daily basis to check if they are ok or need help. Hope this helps, Debbie
I wish I could volunteer to help people but sadly I have been abused by so many people including at volunteering that I can’t do volunteering any more because I’m scared of people and I’m autistic
Aww, I’m sorry that happened to you. People can be horrible at times and with your condition it would hurt even more. I wish you well, much love Debbie x
You must be very concerned, and I feel very sorry for you.
I know the main supermarkets have slots booked up for weeks, but you might be able to get provisions through Amazon. (One of my team uses them, and has been using them a lot.)
If you’re on FB - many of the local groups setting up to help in this situation.
Yes Jane I was going to suggest Facebook - one of my neighbours put out a call on there when we were snowed in up a country lane - and a couple of tractors were there in no time! I wasn't fussed as I was prepared! I hope you get help possum. Take care
Do you think humans will deplete their food sources? Maybe we should all go out to work in the fields or try our hands at home grown veg. If I had a bigger garden I would do that
We are going to need pickers because the ones we had have all gone home. It would be an income for you as well, one you could distance yourself from people maybe.
I'm sorry you find yourself in this situation. Is there a local shop you could ring, I'm sure they would deliver to you. Where do you live? Love and hugs Lynne xxxx
Don't know if you are aware but I tried to order food on Tesco website to be delivered last night, the website crashed three times, so I tried again at midnight then it worked. I then found that I cannot get a delivery until 4th April, so if you are ordering food online bear this in mind. It must be awful for you being stuck in on your own but just remember that we are all here for each other in these awful days - God bless you all.
What we do is do a fortnightly shop with them and book the days in advance but its bad for the poor people who live week to week though who need the deliveries!
I agree this is VERY worrying especially as the tv have just flashed up that UK broadband networks are struggling, if people have to stay in isolation for months and they can't get on line what on Earth do we all do then - lose weight or panic!!!!!
Have a look on sites like Gumtree and in the local paper for livestock for sale.
I used to work for a yellow free ads paper years ago and people would put things in like chickens for sale in the livestock section and often they would be free to a good home.
Good idea in principal but as we are all in isolation I can't go out and get one and if I did I wouldn't have a clue how to look after it, also I can't go out to get a coop, food for it etc., Being isolated makes you appreciate how easy things were back in the good old days before this bloody coronavirus! Guess I will have to do what my good old mom taught me God rest her soul, start baking and pickling, although she would turn in her grave if I had a go at pastry - hopeless at it!
Fortunately, I am a Virgo and always plan for everything. For as long as I have been off sick from work since an accident 10 years ago I have always bought a few extra tins when I go shopping, just in case I can't get out due to illness and in case I can't shop online in case my computer breaks - I'm not a pessimist it just that everything tends to happen to me at once so I have to plan, plan, plan. That's why I am so frustrated about this situation I have no control over it, I don't/can't go out often anyway normally but now I can't I am getting REALLY frustrated. I have a lot of allergies and fortunately I like cleaning so I am pottering around giving the house a clean in between watching the news, I can only go slowly so by the time the virus has gone away I will just be finishing lol! I hasten to add I haven't hoarded cleaning materials, I am using ones I've had for ages - I don't want anybody thinking I am one of "those" people. I am lucky to have got a slot with Tesco - only trouble is every time I look on my account they have marked things as unavailable so by the time 4th April arrives will there be anything arriving at my front door - me thinks not and that is what is very worrying for us all!
To be honest that's more than I would expect the way things are at the moment. Like me you have your dogs food so that's ok, as long as my doggies are fed I'm happy, I can make do and rummage around in the cupboard/fridge to throw something together, they can't and they are important!
We have none up until 9 April and can’t look beyond that. Bet most of these people never used to use it and are still going out for other reasons. Leaves the vulnerable at risk then. Half our pre booked one today out of stock!
This is the thing that's scaring me the most - people not been able to access food, we are all worried about this damned virus we shouldn't be having to worry about something as basic as food, very worrying!
In my local area the parish and town councils and groups of volunteers are getting vey active to help support people. One village has already posted leaflets through everyones doors with a list of individuals who are coordinating help with shopping etc. Try your Parish council and any social media groups for your local area - there seem to be plenty of people out there willing to help out.
Yes I have tried. I am on the Fodmap diet for Crohns so normally things are difficult. I only live 5 mins away from a sainburys but they have no delivery spots. Kind regards Jane
I have signed up to Facebook and lots of local help there. From people willing to help to local businesses delivering. Just put in your town and I am sure something will come up. Also there’s an online site called something like Nextdoor sure there will be help there. Best of luck and stay safe XX
Hi can you order online? If not see if age uk or red cross are helping in your area. Failing that call your gp surgery as they may have contacts you can call.
Hello I’m sure there is someone out there who will help you, there might be a volunteer who could get you your milk or bread. Listen to your local news you might get help there okay good luck. Xx
I am in the same situation, on my own so have to go and get my own groceries, no such thing as the shop delivery here. I go at to the shop at about 1.30 hardly any one around then. I also have a disability card that allows me to queue jump, not good for me to be standing in a queue. As I have severe lung conditions I cough, that alone gets people to rush me through the tills, even though I have an oxygen back pack I am coming up against some nasty remarks, like **go home and don't infect people** My reply to them is **My condition is 100% fatal, 0% contagious and thank you for your concern** makes them cringe a bit then. BUT if I am strictly honest I would move away from some one like me but I would never be rude.
Do get in touch with a local church. I am sure they will help you. I am not a Christian but I do know that they do take communal responsibilities very seriously.
Possum8, do stores deliver? I know the stores here are waiving delivery fee to help people in need. Also call your doctors office, they might have information that can help you. I wish you well. Please don't give up, there's always help.
I have chronic bronchiectasis. I felt unwell for a while due to chest infection. I sent a sput sample last we’d apparently it came back on the Friday and it turns out I have pnumonia. My chemist rang me late Friday saying there was a script that came through at 7 30pm. I managed to get it delivered but if this corona virus is effecting people with underlying problems why was I not phoned by gp on Friday. I rang the surgery on the Monday they said I should have rang.,she was very matter of fact saying it’s only strep bacteria .I E pnumonia. I’m so angry that they are so flipent. I’m so poorly and scared to go to the hospital. They said stay at home. My breathing is horrendous where is the care. I have been in for three weeks before diognosed as I was so ill.im terrified of getting the virus
I hope you get better soon bronchitis and pneumonia is difficult to cope with. I know some people who had chronic bronchitis they had antibiotics and they are better now but now they are wondering if they had the corona virus already because the bronchitis was so bad. Don’t be scared just try to think positive
I am crying at reading your post. It is VERY frightening when you have breathing problems and there is a deadly virus going around that causes respiratory failure. I have COPD/asthma and have had a lung infection for a week, thank God I am now getting over it but I too am scared to death in case I get coronavirus or my lung infection comes back. If I were you I would email the GP surgery (because you won't be able to get through on the phone) and insist that they give you help/advice. I am really annoyed that they keep going on about general topics on the tv when there are people been told to isolate but they are not giving people cohesive advice, I said to my husband this morning they should cancel all regular programmes on BBC2 and instead put a constant question and answer program on so that members of the public can ask the "ordinary" questions that we all have from all walks of life. Also they keep saying on the tv look on so and so website, I know they are in minority but some people haven't got computers so what the hell are they supposed to do. I wish I could be of more help to you sadly I can't, but please try not to panic because that of course will make your breathing worse. Contact your GP that's what they are there for let them earn their high wages! Good luck and God Bless xx
That's just what I wanted to hear. Thank you so much for this.
Maybe I'm breaking the rules but I read this today and thought about everyone on here and of course beyond. Thank You Thank You Thank You for all you do for us xx
I have a holiday let but cancellations coming in because we are on Lockdown (France) and border closures, but my advice is use bleach if your lungs will allow it, mine wont, so Dettol, ask clients to bring their own pillows and duvets as other wise you will have to wash them at each change over. Anything that could have come in contact with mouths must be scrupulously cleaned, carpets if you can remove them, do so, same with decorative cushions etc. Stand well away from clients, without being rude of course, Just step up the cleaning routine to another level.
I have just lost two bookings as the borders are closed and another one has just cancelled so my bookings chart that was looking so very very good, only 3 weeks not filled until 2nd week of October WAS the best ever.
Hope your clients turn up or at least tell you if they aren't coming.
I will also happily speak to anyone who needs support during this time. I do two shifts on the MBC Helpline but would be happy to be a referral to someone who needs extra support.
I am in the U S, so I don't know what restrictions the U K has put out. In the U S, things are changing by the moment. One thing that is still advised here , is to get out in fresh air, but staying a distance away from others. Totally agree that fresh air is so important for our physical and mental health.
Its a worrying time for us all and I wonder could anyone on here please advise me? Towards the end of 2018 I was diagnosed wit Ab Fib, ans as a result I suffered from a mini stroke. Thank God that I recovered fully. I continue to have a flutter and take medication for this as well as blood thinners and blood pressure tablets. Does this put me in the Immunocompromised bracket?
I think that it is best that we all take the most precautionary measures that we can and then we won’t have to worry about whether we’re more at risk because we will have done our best to prevent it. Try not to worry
I agree - all we can do is protect ourselves, we are at war with an invisible enemy so we must protect ourselves in anyway we can, dettol, dettol and more dettol in my house!
My whole life has been like being in a war. A battle. I have wanted to buy a microscope for quite some time. I’m interested in health and botany. Do you think dettol is useful?
I am allergic to many products and cannot tolerate the smell of bleach so I have been using clear spray dettol for years - I am not OCD but I like to keep a very clean house because of all my allergies to dust etc., I have always found clear spray dettol to be the best, it is of course a matter of personal choice, I can only use natural products or fortunately clear dettol so I am about to start making my own sanitiser ready for when I run out of dettol. I bought aloe vera, tea tree oil and fresh lemons last week in preparation, good job I did there probably aren't any of these items left now. I have always been interested in health too - before coronavirus I did wish that I had become a doctor - now I'm very glad I didn't I wouldn't do their job for all the tea in China right now - and I do love a cup of tea!!!!!
I think dettol is popular I use it sometimes if needed. I like to make my own products from lemons, rosemary, and all sorts of other things that smell nice. I like to keep a clean house too. Do you have any more advice?
The case for alcohol-based handrubs in health care
At present, alcohol-based handrubs are the only known means for rapidly and effectively inactivating a wide array of potentially harmful microorganisms on hands.
I have pmr, very strange conversation with my gp who said that I need to avoid social contact for 14 days as am on steroids of 15mg daily. Not sure if the 14 days was the correct advice, can anyone help, thank you
I also have pmr and gca and am on 15 mg prednisolone (and am over 70). 14 days is not the correct advice! I consider I need to self isolate until the end of this thing! The government certainly didn't say 14 days in relation to those self isolating.
Poodles especially for any one with a lung condition as they don't shed, and they are very trainable.
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Poodles are nice. I actually really like Labrador retrievers although I’ve never had a dog before. I think that when I look at a Labrador retriever dog there is some sort of connection I can’t explain it
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Bichon frise are great little dogs that don't shed!
I think that depends on what you want in a pet. I have three at the moment Izzy in my avatar is a rescued Rottweiler x GSD and she is brilliant now although not easy to start with. My daughter gave me her eldest Labrador when Izzy's Lab companion passed away - then I rescued a Patterdale Terrier who was also quite a handful. The Lab is probably easiest but I have a closer bond with the other two for some reason.
I am a great believer in making sure my dogs know I am the boss and they are all fairly quiet and happy chappies. Most dogs will run rings round their owners if they are allowed to!
Any dog will bark a lot if allowed, I like Labradors but they love food and will steal anything edible lol. If you want a dog that doesn't bark you need a Basenji !! they never bark.
It means they can very easily make life quite uncomfortable for their owners - they can become the head of the household unless they are properly trained. My Labrador barks a bit when people visit but soon stops. Some dogs - any breed will bark to get attention.
Steroids need to be taken under medical supervision - using them for better sports performance etc is asking for trouble and can lead to death.
Yes that is cats for you but if you watch even one episode of "Dogs behaving very badly" you will see that dogs ruling the roost makes life not only miserable for their owners but potentially very dangerous. People being dragged across road by their bad pooches and so on. I firmly believe that dogs actually like having boundaries and find life much easier than if they are trying to be top dog. It works for mine and I have rescued some very challenging dangerous dogs. I spent 6 weeks touring Scotland last year in my caravan and had some very nice comments about my three. When you arrive at a caravan site you can see the "looks" that people give! Dogs can make camping very miserable for others as well as their owners except many owners seem amused by their dogs constantly barking.
Couldn't agree more, all my dogs have been rescues must have had 50 in my lifetime. My avatar is also one of my severest cases , didn't even know what she was when picked up, didn't even look like a dog, minus lower jaw, no fur, smelt to high heavens, bag of bones dumped in a motor way picnic area. After 4 operations, one to remove the last of her horribly rotten teeth that were killing her, another the mend the hinge of her jaw (all that was left of lower jaw, and two cancer ops she turned out to be a Chinese Crested Powder Puff of about 14 years old, had her for another 4 years. Only got 2 rescues now.
Steroids are an immune suppressant so you need to take extra care at all times, I take an immunity booster as on permanent steroids and over 70 , on oxygen with 30% lung function
I am the same have PMR on steroids but also have a lung infection so am on anti-biotics as well, fortunately I am getting better. I am in the st risk group so am self isolating, only been three days with my "darling " husband (he's in the at risk group too) and he is driving me mad already. Usually I pack him off out to the shops when he's getting on my nerves but can't do that now, he is a typical miserable old man and he is doing my head in - thank goodness I have all you great people to chat with!!!!
Hi, Any thoughts about how to stay safe when you have lodgers in the house? Both my husband and I are in the at risk category and wonder what we should do if anyone shows symptoms. We are even going to look at buying a camper van this afternoon to use as an isolation unit!
Yes but I think it might be an excessive response ...
I am also happy to chat to anyone that feels the need.
Personally I have a wife recovering from a stroke, a year ago and doing well, and am having psychotherapy for some emotional issues. Next session by video call! Should be interesting.
I'm here for those struggling through the Covid-19 pandemic. My inbox is a safe space for you all to seek support or advice.
Hi
I'm here for anyone that needs help of any sort. Love and hugs to you all Lynne xxxx
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I would like some advice. Do you think people can be more horrible because they are stressed because of the corona virus. Some people have been even more horrible to me than usual and saying the most awful, hurtful things to me making me cry
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Yes they can be as when people are frightened and worried over something it can manifest as a nasty attitude.
Tyrre...I am SO sorry to hear you have experienced this. Maybe I'm out of place saying this but...Covid 19 or not...you need to distance yourself from people that would be so hurtful. We ALL need to be supportive of each other physically and mentally, today and always. This pandemic has made us distance ourselves from others physically, but in this day and age, we have means to keep in contact and support each other. This site is a good example of supportive people. Stay positive!
I am in the U S, so I am an ocean away from most of you, but I am here for anyone who needs to talk. Turn off the news and put on some music. Give yourself a little...dance like no one is looking... moment or two. Grab that book that you've been meaning to read , but just haven't had the time. This too shall pass. I'm in my 70's and have had many low times in my life, but they are ALWAYS replaced with great times!
I am afraid stress brings out the worst in people and can make them nasty. Don't allow them to make you feel bad - just distance yourself.
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Yes, they can be when they are frightened. Maybe they need to learn to take a step back and think first. I'm here for any one of you who needs me. Love and hugs Lynne xxxx
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Oh yes people can be really horrid when in a stressful situation. I am also getting really nasty remarks because I cough a lot, try to do it hygienically. I wear oxygen so it must be pretty obvious I have a severe lung condition but I am told to** go home and stop infecting people**, was even reported to security to have me thrown out of one shop !!!
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Put it down to their ignorance and lack of maturity those comments!
Hi. My partner and I are self isolating. We both have chronic conditions (I have GPA) and are over 60. But wants to go for a walk today and get dates (he is always making date squares!!). Otherwise we are fairly well stocked up. If he washes up really well when he gets home, do folks think that's safe enough?
From what I understand getting out is fine and is encouraged as long as we stay away from other people (2 meter minimum). Going into shops to buy things could be more risky, depends how busy the shop is, what precautions they are taking, whether anyone is coughing or sneezing etc. Our local veg shop are using disposable gloves to handle the veg now. Can you get someone else to get the dates and other things you need, or go once and buy in bulk before the selfish people who are buying huge amounts of toilet roll start stockpiling dates as well! In small local shops they may be willing to bring things to you outside the shop.
So glad to get your reply Oldda. Thanks, so I decided to phone my sis who lives in the same small city and she said she'd be glad to deliver some groceries
There is a network of local volunteer mutual aid groups developing. Over 900 already. They are connecting volunteers willing to do shopping etc. with people in need. covidmutualaid.org/local-gr...
Thank you that’s kind of people to do that. I find it difficult to ask for support but I’ll try if my family can’t help. Sometimes my family helps with my shopping if I can’t get it online (if I didn’t organise myself to book it or if it’s booked a lot if there’s corona virus or similar) but a lot of the time they don’t care. I find it difficult to go to the shops with other people too especially if I don’t know them and I’m in my overdraft again since I can’t get employment and can’t make it to claim benefits.
I think that his is such and exceptional situation that people are very happy to help. It helps us all cope with the sense of shock and helplessness to at least be able to help others in our area. Don't be shy of accepting help (but do be a bit cautious to check it is genuine).
You should still be able to get benefits if you need to self isolate but as usual with benefits it sounds a bit complex. commonslibrary.parliament.u...
Thank you Pepa, on HE we are offering members badges if they are high risk or 70+
We need to reassure and help one another in these unsettling times.
Jerry.
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I try to help other people
Thanks Pepa, this is just what’s needed in such uncertain times. I’m more than happy to spend online time with anyone who’s feeling isolated whether it’s just for a general chat or to share what little I know. Together we stand; divided we fall. Just give me a nudge in a private message, any time.
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I felt isolated even before the corona virus
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I'm here if you need me. Pm me if you need to. Love and hugs Lynne xxxx
Wow the world has gone mad ,but my question is i have Pleural thickening of the lungs and still work full time (classed as 20% disable ) had 2 stents fitted last year and am 61 years old do i self isolation or carry on working
PMRGCA forum are doing a daily post specifically for Covid-19 . That way normal queries re PMR or GCA don’t get swamped with virus queries - makes it easier for moderators
I have isolated myself since last Friday, I was on my 2nd day of pulmonary rehab, and the officer in charge told all to go home and isolate ourselves, but I am here to talk to anybody
If one actually gets support it might be useful but that doesn’t really happen. It is good to discuss things though. Ok have a good day you too
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Its the people who treat you badly who have the problem not you.
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Yes you are correct I do not have the problem of abusing or bullying people and I’m kind to other people always
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I'm here for you. Pm me anytime of day or night. Love and hugs Lynne xxxx
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Thank you that is kind of you. What does pm mean?
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Hi
Private message. You click on my picture and then I think you press follow. Love and hugs Lynne xxxx
I went into full blown panic on Sunday when I discovered stores are out of toilet paper. Up until then I was doing okay. Had an autism meltdown Sunday night and now I'm just trying and failing to cope. We managed to get toilet paper and also beef and chicken from our friends so I am 100% grateful for that. But the gravity of this situation hit me hard. Prior to this event I was already struggling with PTSD, depression and severe anxiety. I currently have my rescue dog who is my emotional support animal (she's a large Newfie), and I'm sort of okay when my spouse is home. I just wish I could feel safe. I am in isolation but that's nothing new.
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Nothing new for me either
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I can’t get online shopping until nearly the end of next month it’s booked. Maybe I should get my online shopping from a different shop
I am registered disabled my husband is my official carer but he too has health problems. I do most of food shopping online as I have Lymphoedema, just getting over another bout of cellulitis. I have managed to get a date online with Tesco who we normally use, but they only had spaces from 23rd March, so I quickly booked a slot only problem is they didn't have the basics, vegetables & fruit o.k have ordered some of our usuals and crossing fingers in hope they will have the things we need.
Tried other supermarkets but all booked up as far as you can see and nobody has any antibacterial hand wash, have 2 from a Amazon order I placed weeks ago just hope they last as nobody has any or T. Roll, pasta, flour basic things, Bleach is another.
Just wish the supermarkets and other people who have had 50 bottles a time, had thought of others before they emptied everything there was to have.
Wishing you Good things and hope you will be able to book online. Or maybe a neighbour or someone will let you have some essentials to tied you over. xxxxxxxxxx
Thanks for your helpful comments. Why are people getting so much food? Is it because the food supplies are almost gone and people are worried that soon there won’t be anything left? Or is it because they’re worried all the shops will close? Do I need to get a lot more food than usual this week too? If so, how much more food and to last for how many weeks? I don’t even have enough money for one weeks shopping. If the shops all close or if the food supplies are gone, I will go fishing or something (even though I actually don’t like going fishing).
I hate using antibacterial hand wash usually it dries my hands and hurts so I prefer gel. I think handwash is good for cleaning surfaces though. If I were to do a lot of shopping it wouldn’t look good on my bank statement and what would I need to buy exactly?
There is a developing network of mutual aid groups who coordinate volunteers to help with shopping. 900 across the country already covidmutualaid.org/local-gr...
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I want an emotional support animal. Does anyone have any ideas about this?
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I know there are ways to get a registered emotional support animal from certain official channels, like for veterans or perhaps through a therapist. My dog is my personal support animal, she's not registered by anything official. I have to say though, having a pet is extremely helpful against PTSD, anxiety and depression, so if you can get something it would be worthwhile. If it weren't for my dog I'd be alone all day long and in and out of panic. She keeps me from dissociating sometimes too.
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I think that I don’t have enough money to keep a pet. I wish I could. I know it would help me. If I got a dog I would like a Labrador retriever maybe. I’m not sure if they are noisy? I have sensitive ears and some people deliberately shout at me. I don’t have depression, anxiety or PTSD as far as I know but I do have autism. What is dissociating?
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Very often an emotional support dog is small and cuddly, mine is a miniscule 1kg 900gram, handicapped Yorkshire terrier with three legs, she was badly abused, both back legs broken and left, one healed bent up behind the other, she's a bit nervous of load noises but so attentive to my illness and moods, my other is a poodle, she is my nurse dog, she diagnosed my illnesses long before any one else, she can also smell out cancer in dogs and humans and has done three times, she pre warns of epilepsy too and strokes, miracle dog she is.
Hello, I had a kidney transplant just a month ago , spending most days back & forth to Addebrookes in Cambridge, I feel extremely vulnerable & really aware of needing space about me. Yet still people behave thoughtlessly. This is a frightening time for everyone especially those of us on immunosuppressants,
Tell her to stop listening to the media hysteria and scaremongering and use her second line of defence which is her immune system (see my submission below).
Hi all internees ! I am 67 (male) waiting for a repair to my heart mitral valve and am unsure whether I am in the at risk group. As I am not taking any drugs or treatment for anything, including this condition, I guess I am not. However my wife (63) is recovering from replacement knee surgery but is type 2 diabetic, so I consider we are both internees. My question is that our daughter is a Nurse, working in a local Nursing home and lives with us. Anyone got experience of this kind of mix and has anyone got advice to give us please?
Hello Pepa and everyone I am already in self imposed 'sheltering' being 71 with a number of health issues and bronchitis and a sore throat at the moment ...cough cough sorry folks .
I have been chatting to family all morning, my Daughter in law has taken my grandchildren out of school and they will be home schooled for now to ease the pressure on their school .
The 3 older children twins aged 10 and one 9 have set up eamil accounts this morning and keep checking on me , not sure how I will ever get any work done.
I am going to send them simple recipes, they are in charge of lunch every day.
We live in Jaén Province, Spain and we are in lockdown. I have AML so am housebound, but we have friends who do shopping for us. I am not allowed out except to walk our dog. My next appointment to see my haematologist is in Mid-April and hopefully will be able to see him. Although we have restrictions, it is not too bad.
Hi, in France in lockdown, we are not even supposed to go out at all, if we have pets, I do, supposed to just take them near the house. If we go to the shops we have to carry paperwork stating WHY we are out and about. Luckily I am right out in the country with no gendarmes about so drive my dogs to our usual forest walk which is on the flat, can't do even the slightest slope due to severe lung disease and I live in mini mountains lol.
What would be great is a link to all happy stories regarding the virus. There must surely be plenty of people with underlying issues that have already come through this with few issues.
I have a Myeloproliferative Neoplasm and am in the high risk group, but feel very healthy.
This morning I was frightened hearing the news and once I had calmed down what I did was write down a list of things to enjoy in the flat should it come to the worst and what things could I do to help myself.
I enjoy future learn so will go on that should I feel fed up should the worst happen.
Having a daily worry hour and after that do something nice.
Reading books as I say I will read more but never get round to it. Perhaps now is the time to do so.
Watching videos and films I enjoy
Listening to music I enjoy
Ring places up before going there to see if they are open to avoid wasted trips.
Planning a list of alternative things to do should scheduled events get postponed having a number of alternative options on the go i fancy instead.
Limiting social media and the news like in the old days the news was only on at lunch and dinner time and now its all the time!
Walking out of the room when things get too much and excusing myself from the scare stories getting passed around!
Today I went for a walk and on the street it was no different to a regular day in Cardiff the buses full as usual and friends groups in the cafes.
I thought if they are living their life then why shouldn't I?
Today we donated a parcel of food to our local foodbank and I felt better for doing that as I feel there's always someone else worse off than you are no matter what your circumstances are.
That's very kind of you thank you . What a lovely thing to do the food banks are crying out for things , if I see any homeless I usually get them a meal or buy sandwiches and drinks for them , there is always someone worse than you x
One of the things that has not been mentioned about the CoVid-19 Coronavirus outbreak is what people can do to boost their immune systems so if they do come into contact with this pathogen then they stand the best chance of fighting it off. I am not for a moment advocating that it would stop anyone getting the symptoms or stop them being infectious but it is clearly evident that the fatal cases are those with weakened immune systems and hence the advice is to self isolate and not put themselves at risk. The ultimate protection against CoVid-19 is a vaccine but this is not forthcoming at least in the short term but the next line of defence is your immune system which people do have at their disposals (even the more vulnerable groups) which explains why the majority of people who contract CoVid-19 are able to recover from this. Apart from not getting stressed out and getting a good night's sleep, it had been advised that the following foods help in doing this:-
1) Citrus fruits
2) Peppers
3) Broccoli
4) Garlic
5) Ginger
6) Spinach
7) Natural Yogurt
8) Almonds
9) Tumeric
10) Green Tea
11) Papaya
12) Kiwi
13) Poultry
14) Sunflower Seeds
15) Shellfish
A lot of these foods also protect against other ailments such as cancer as well but these should be taken in addition to mineral and vitamin supplements if they are to have an effect.
I agree a healthy and nutritious diet will support people to stay well should they ever need to tackle this virus cjb. However, it’s not a one size fits all strategy.
I’m on cancer treatment for chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and some citrus fruits must never be eaten with the immunotherapy I’m on. Many of our members are on neutropenic diets that preclude some of the foods you mention. Shellfish could be particularly hazardous.
I’m sure you can imagine how scary it is when the cancer is of your immune system. The very thing we are relying on to combat the effects of this virus 😱
I do think however for people not affected in this way, it’s going to be important not to over-eat high carb/calorie food whilst confined because they’ll be a greater temptation.
While the foods you mentioned are nutritious and full of valuable vitamins and minerals, some of them are an absolute no-no for people on certain chemotherapy drugs: for example, grapefruit, blood and Seville oranges, pomegranate, starfruit, among others.
Shellfish carry their own hazards; besides the fact that they should be left to live their lives in the ocean, instead of ending up on dinner plates...
pigeon.
Huge wake up call for evolving computer driven medical science isn't it! And real life!
I am also in isolation... with SLE and taking mycophenalyte, steriods and penicillin and thyroxin... and asplenic. I work from home anyway (as a software engineer/architect) and am pretty much always online whilst I am working developing/designing software; and am quite used to working for the day from my desk.
Always up for chat during these times with anyone who is feeling isolated. In the evenings I read books and study things. Listen to music and sometimes watch some tv.
If anyone needs a chat then my door is always open!
No problems are too silly and trivial as whats silly to one isn't to another.
There is a developing network of mutual aid groups who coordinate volunteers to help with shopping. 900 across the country already covidmutualaid.org/local-gr...
Hello Pepa, thank you for the post. I've never posted before but do follow everyone else's and find a lot of advice helpful and enjoy the jokes and banter.
I wonder if anyone can help with advice please. I had a dental appointment for a check up last Wednesday having got back from Spain - Bay of Cadiz - the previous day. Phoned and they, finally, agreed to postpone it for 2weeks, Monday 23rd. I have two stents, and on medication for high blood pressure and under active thyroid.
Surely if we are not allowed to visit our GPs then dentists should also be on the avoidance list, given the proximity between patient and dentist. Should I phone and cancel the appointment given that the situation with the virus is only going to get worse? No problems with teeth at present.
Well said cjb2 , l agree 100%!! I would say that probably all of us who subscribe to healthunlocked.com have a low immune system. Good healthy food is so important for improved health. Body and mind.
Thank you healthunlocked.com for all your help and advice and up to the minute information on this Coronavirus. The more we know the stronger we become and definitely more able to look after ourselves with that added knowledge. Thank you!!
Hello Pepa.
We are closing our doors after late Morning , Wednesday, after that I will be here for all my different sites.
If you need any further help on top of my sites please let me know and hopefully I will be able to assist. The only exception will be visiting in person within my County.
We need to encourage and assist those who like ourselves need encouragement and understanding. Many will become confused and possibly frightened ?
You know where I am and my ongoing sites if needed. You have me email address.
Was just telling my partner this morning that I feel like my life is in limbo...he agreed. It's a strange time....had to cancel and reschedule a visit to my 95 year old mother...heartbreaking and activities canceled because of the virus. But I am on the side of caution and staying home....thank God for sewing, beading and playing cards with my partner. Please everyone be safe....I am 18 years out from my first BC and 6 years out from my second BC, but I still feel like I am in the group they refer to as having an underlying health issue....not taking any chances. I'm here to chat if you need to....I have a great listening ear. Stay well
Here in the USA, we have many ideologues who run their lives by political opinion, rather than by the Precautionary Principle, often rejecting facts. That is why the USA has never taken any significant action in regard to climate change, and that is why the ideologues suggest that everyone go to bars and restaurants to party on, in spite of COVID.
So I hope you will read these fact-based articles:
If anyone needs to chat I'm here , I'm worried as I am on Naproxen and there are conflicting reports that you should not take imbrofren or naproxin if you get corona virus .
Cannot get through to Dr , just have to see how I go , WHO has said to keep taking medications , I don't take many I try and do without , there is so many conflicting stories about . We will all get through this , must not get down .
Got through to Dr don't stop taking it , there is no hard evidence at the moment . I only take Naproxen 4/ 5 a month or when the pain gets bad . Stay safe .
Good plan. I'm more that happy to support and chat here. I'm not in isolation, just at this stage social distancing...but things can change, cant they? Tough times.
I live in the U.S. and not only am I terrified but I’m so angry because my government is not doing anything! They keep saying millions of testing kits are going out yet no hospitals have any idea where they are . We have half the population saying the other half is making too big of a deal about this. We have bars that refuse to close and plan on having big St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. If we can’t get everyone on the same page nor have the infrastructure to support what is coming down the road I feel like I have no control over protecting me nor all the people I care about.
Saimin...I am in Michigan and as of yesterday, all restaurants, bars, gyms, other clubs and many other establishments are closed here. It looks like each state is going to have to take control of the situation.
Here in wales it has been made official that those places are to close from tonight!
I had just assumed they were closed anyway so for me it wasn't a great loss.
Hi! I am allergic to Paracetamol. There are a lots of articles and messages about avoiding ibuprofen if you get corona virus. I know it’s not been tested yet but I don’t want to take any risks. Can I take aspirin instead of paracetamol?
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I believe that they are saying don't take paracetamol because it is an anti inflammatory, so is asprin.
Covid-19: ibuprofen should not be used for managing symptoms, say doctors and scientists
BMJ 2020; 368 doi: doi.org/10.1136/bmj.m1086 (Published 17 March 2020)
Scientists and senior doctors have backed claims by France’s health minister that people showing symptoms of covid-19 should use paracetamol (acetaminophen) rather than ibuprofen, a drug they said might exacerbate the condition.
The minister, Oliver Veran, tweeted on Saturday 14 March that people with suspected covid-19 should avoid anti-inflammatory drugs. “Taking anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, cortisone . . .) could be an aggravating factor for the infection. If you have a fever, take paracetamol,” he said.
His comments seem to have stemmed in part from remarks attributed to an infectious diseases doctor in south west France. She was reported to have cited four cases of young patients with covid-19 and no underlying health problems who went on to develop serious symptoms after using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in the early stage of their symptoms. The hospital posted a comment saying that public discussion of individual cases was inappropriate.
But Jean-Louis Montastruc, a professor of medical and clinical pharmacology at the Central University Hospital in Toulouse, said that such deleterious effects from NSAIDS would not be a surprise given that since 2019, on the advice of the National Agency for the Safety of Medicines and Health Products, French health workers have been told not to treat fever or infections with ibuprofen.
Experts in the UK backed this sentiment. Paul Little, a professor of primary care research at the University of Southampton, said that there was good evidence “that prolonged illness or the complications of respiratory infections may be more common when NSAIDs are used—both respiratory or septic complications and cardiovascular complications.”
He added, “The finding in two randomised trials that advice to use ibuprofen results in more severe illness or complications helps confirm that the association seen in observational studies is indeed likely to be causal. Advice to use paracetamol is also less likely to result in complications.”
Ian Jones, a professor of virology at the University of Reading, said that ibuprofen’s anti-inflammatory properties could “dampen down” the immune system, which could slow the recovery process. He added that it was likely, based on similarities between the new virus (SARS-CoV-2) and SARS I, that covid-19 reduces a key enzyme that part regulates the water and salt concentration in the blood and could contribute to the pneumonia seen in extreme cases. “Ibuprofen aggravates this, while paracetamol does not,” he said.
Charlotte Warren-Gash, associate professor of epidemiology at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said: “For covid-19, research is needed into the effects of specific NSAIDs among people with different underlying health conditions. In the meantime, for treating symptoms such as fever and sore throat, it seems sensible to stick to paracetamol as first choice.”
Rupert Beale, an infectious diseases researcher at the Francis Crick Institute, had a warning on cortisone, however. “Patients taking cortisone or other steroids should not stop them except on advice from their doctor,” he said.
The complex role that the immune system might play in covid-19 disease has been underscored by reports that Swiss drug company Roche has secured approval from China for its anti-inflammation drug Actemra (tocilizumab) to treat patients developing severe complications from covid-19.
Some doctors in Italy, including Paolo Ascierto of the Pascale Hospital in Naples, claim that they have had success treating severely ill patients with the drug, which blocks the key inflammatory molecule interleukin-6.
There is speculation that the drug might prevent fatal “cytokine storms,” in which the immune system of seriously ill patients can cause organ failure.
bmj.com/content/368/bmj.m1086
I certainly don't hold the BMJ as perfect and often disagree with things published. But it is a respectable source to be taken into consideration.
I read on WHO not to take aspirin, imbrufren is safer but there are so many conflicting reports , I take Naproxen for costochronditus as and when needed my Dr told me not to stop it there is no evidence about any NSAD as there has been no tests done .
Bless you for letting me know that HealthUnlocked is here for this COVID-19, and also for this site. Problems which have been/still is somewhere safe for me and many others to come.
Hi. Count me in. I am 77 with fibro, hypothyroidism, and DH is 81 and has dementia, COPD plus poor mobility and we both have other medical problems too, so we won't be going anywhere. I will be happy to chat anytime. I think the friends on here are great anyway so if we can help each other through fibro. I am sure we can help each other through coronovirus. I think keeping our spirits up has to be the key, so maybe some amusing stories or jokes could help! But if you only want to let off steam or have a moan that is OK too. The main thing is to stay safe. xxx
No you are not a fake as we all have our problems and the fact someone else is supposedly worse off isn't the point as how does that change your situation and what's bothering you?
I'm just so scared. My husband kept saying oh it's nothing.. err well why would china risk economy? I was right so many deaths..I'm pathetic I have nightmares about it. Anxiety sufferer. Sorry
I am so anxious to have heart problems made worse by these crazy times. Son is stuck in Italy and daughter is a teacher now has a cough . Can't settle as keep checking phone and tv for any news most of which just keeps making me more scared xx
Yes it can be, I get told not to be so ridiculous over this thing and I'm blowing things out of proportion it's all my anxiety. Maybe if husband took it more seriously I wouldn't be as anxious.
Don't ever belittle anxiety - I have that too - in spades. It is just as real as any other illness, and just as hard to deal with. In any case we are not in a competition, we are here to support each other, whatever the problem, large or small, whenever the need arises. So, in theory, the more there are of us, the easier it should be. A listening ear and a word of encouragement can work wonders, as I have found over recent weeks. Keep safe everyone and keep chatting!xx
Welcome to Wales. I am from Cardiff and Swansea is such a beautiful place. I used to take my children there when I was younger. Beautiful coasts all the very best
Two of my kids, (well full grown adults with families) are in the Merthyr Tydfil area, me I used to live in the valleys but am now in France, so is my eldest daughter The rest of my family is on the Gower peninsular.
Been a long time since I was on here , but I always have a good read and pick up lots of tips an recipes 😊 Now with everything going on in the world good to know we have a great support group at are finger tips thanks for posts .. will be on a waking night shift tonight so will pop back later stay safe .
Yes I will listen and reply too, as I have numerous conditions maybe I can share my notes on how to get through this trying time. Don't feel lonely or afraid talking and sharing helps
Ok so here is my problem. I’m supposed to be seeing my GP tomorrow because I need a lump checked on my right breast. I have hormonal lumps, which have been thoroughly checked, in my left breast. 5 weeks ago I started getting a similar lump in the right one. It’s got bigger and smaller with my cycle and was really sore, but I am very anxious to get it checked. I’ve had a sore throat for 2 and a half weeks, no fever and no cough (I often get sore throats when I’m run down). I have anxiety disorder, health anxiety and OCD. I’m worried sick about the world and worried sick about this lump.
Do I still go tomorrow? I feel it’s so important. I know my surgery will be being extra careful. I’m not in at “at risk” group. I’ve been crying all day, because I haven’t the mental strength to cancel this appointment and wait for another. X
They wouldn’t let me come till I had no temp. So I went yesterday. I’m being referred to the breast clinic 😞. My doctor was very nice and said it feels like other other lumpy, hormonal, ductal breast tissue like I have in my left breast (checked a couple of years ago). But this is on my right breast and new and procedure dictates that I have to get it properly checked. Typically I have a temp today, after it had gone away. The clinic won’t see me if I have a temp. I don’t know how long it’ll be till I see them because of the lockdown here in U.K. and because I can’t seem to get rid of my temp.
Anxiety can be as serious as other health issues and it's all linked together in this case.
Maybe you could talk to your GP on the phone to discuss your concerns. It's really urgent.
Have you tried calling some of the helplines and share your concerns? Sometimes having someone hear you and just be there might help alleviate the fear.
Hope your temperature will go down and you will see the specialist.
Thank you for this post. I have had a difficult day having to ring people who have been in a confined space with someone who is now being tested for the virus. Not an easy conversation. I'd like to say something I never thought I would. I work for a much smaller government on a much smaller island, but I feel for those in government employ across the world. Whatever action is being taken, somebody won't agree with it. Too much, too little, damned if you do, damned if you don't. This isn't about 'right' or 'left', this individual or that individual. Everybody is trying to navigate through something most have precious little previous experience of dealing with on this scale. The medical professionals who can't isolate because we need them are to be celebrated for their efforts, and are probably getting very frustrated with the fact that so many in the media both social and general have become 'experts'. This is hard for everybody, those who are ill and vulnerable in particular. Look after yourselves and each other. Take care all.
I am my wife Mrs 007 along with our Tom Cat Sparky and She Can Coco are in isolation.
Being there are 2 not counting the moggies it's not to bad.
I have several lung and heart conditions and and 74, my wife has Angina although younger than me.
We do go in garden and shop online for what greedy people have left for us, our society it has been shown is selfish.
It is boring but being old and pre med conditions, self isolation is better than dyeing - That is the start choice.
We watch Netflix, Prime Video and DVDs at the evenings and night, and three time a week a drop or two..
I have OA and
Radiculopathy mrs 007 also has similar. So Morphine can get in the way at times for me..
Anyway good luck to everyone, keep safe, keep away from others and this will end and we need to make sure, we don't
We have two daughters and a son who would love to help, one a teacher and the other in a UNI Lab. Offers of help but they live miles away and one daughter is a teacher and the other doing her Masters in a lab. son and eldest daughter have children so direct contact really is not an option.. Thank God for Skype.
Hi I am in late seventies and so where I am at the moment the law dictates I can not go out on pain of being arrested! Fortunately for me I married a younger man, fancy me being pyschic and I never knew!! He can do the shopping, meanwhile I am doing a bit of gardening. We have a lot of land but that is a bit beyond me and so I am growing things in containers! Last year I grew great cucumbers, french beans, chilli peppers and sweet peppers and rocket all in pots. I also had a great tip from a friend about growing those little round tomatoes , tiny tim I think in hanging baskets and letting them trail down.. a wonderful harvest. So I shall be out in the fresh air, exercising and enjoying myself besides looking after our nine rescue dogs and six cats I have lived through two wars and take the view that the Lord decides when he wants me and that is it!! I lost a very very dear sister in law to COPD and I can only imagine your terror at this disease so thoughts and prayers are with those who are unwell and perhaps a little afraid,, lets help each other xx Any gardening tips welcome
I made my living gardening/Market Gardening and growing plants for mail order. I suggest being you have a lot of land grow some summer bulbs like Lilly's - Also the are many Fuchsia's that flower until the first frost - From 12 inches to 10 foot or more. Not forgettying Holly Reserve a small plot and go back to nature and sow some wild flowers - i don't mention growing food as you have that in hand.. For larger shrubs Holly, Bamboo and plant a Palm of some variety for an exotic patch. I myself use a Cordyline for a palm.. Whatever you choose good luck in these surreal times,
Everyone needs to supplement with Vit D3 5000 IU (and vit K2 100mcg and vit C 1000mg) per day and increase the dose if you get it
If the health authorities had the first clue about disease they would be handing out vit D3 and letting us carry on with our business instead of bankrupting the country.
The reason people get flu in the winter is because our vit D levels are too low as there isn't enough sun between Oct and April inthe UK to make vit D in the skin. Its very good to heal respiratory diseases.
The media have created a complete panic and should be answerable for the millions of job losses that will ensue.
The latest WHO report points to a death rate of 0.7% among the elderly and sick, the same as flu. There is no need for this ridiculous shut down
If you are washing them, I would sat very little risk. With veg you cook so that will kill the virus.
With fruit get from the back of the shelf if you can, so they won't have been mauled. fruit just was and gently rub the skin and you should be fine... If you are worried about apples and pears. peel them after washing them....The risk anyway is minimal I would think...Keep well .Exbury1905.
I have pbc and starting to feel overwhelmed by this whole Coronavirus situation. I'm lucky enough to keep pretty good health for the most part so I’m not sure where I stand on this whole 12 week isolation proposed by the Government for the vulnerable. I don’t tend to think of myself as in that category but I do qualify for and get the flu vaccination every year. I work in a supermarket which is crazy busy right now obviously and my husband is berating me for saying I don’t really feel I’m in the vulnerable category. Anyone else feeling as confused as me?
Hi Bluebelle, I know exactly where you are coming from. My boss has just said that maybe I should take 12 weeks off, I can’t afford to do that. I’m early stage pbc & feel fine
Yes it’s so confusing and as you say 12 weeks off work is a lot of lost income! I haven’t discussed this at work yet thought I’d wait to see what if any more information is announced first. I’m thinking they may clarify it to certain groups when they realise just how many people this must apply to.
I am 73, and have a few autoimmune issues plus trying to keep my thyroid optimal as well as battling with cortisol levels which are all over the place. Doctor and endo are no help. Also I have autoimmune sinusitis and a weakness in my chest from TB as a child. I a lot of family and friends had coronavirus type symptoms last December and were all very ill. I always have the flu jab and since having it never catch anything in the winter, so it hit me out of the blue. I was full of congestion, couldn’t get my breath, exhausted and just wanted to sleep. My son is a self employed truck driver and he struggled on, but developed cavernous sinus thrombosis and had severe nosebleeds culminating in an operation. We were on antibiotics for a month or more. A few of us have been comparing symptoms and wondering now if what we had was a strain of coronavirus. It certainly wasn’t normal flu or swine flu which I also had. I am trying to keep away from people, not going to shops or the places I normally go. Avoiding crowds but getting very depressed at the lack of support. We just did an online shop and have to wait for three weeks for delivery. The thing thats frightening me is there’s no testing so we won’t know if we have caught it. 2 drivers where my son works are off work with suspected coronavirus. He can’t afford to stay home (he rents) and we are all in a precarious position financially. How much longer do we have to endure this uncertainty? It seems that opinions change every day.
Hi, I wondered if anyone else is living with family, sharing bathroom and kitchen facilities, and trying to self isolate. I'm very lucky not to be alone, but it's a bit tricky. Any tips.
I have a question, I have PBC, early stages. I work at an opticians so come into contact with people every day. It has been mentioned that I should self isolate for 12 weeks by my boss. Is this necessary? I obviously don’t want to catch this awful virus but I am not in a position to take that amount of time off work. Have tried scouring the net & calling my consultant for info but no joy as yet.
My boss today suggested I should take 12 weeks off but thankfully with part pay and part holiday pay. I’m going to discuss it with my husband tonight and make a decision. After the morning just had at work I’m sorely tempted!
Yes and it’s so stressful with the restrictions on how much people are allowed to buy now. Some are great and very understanding but others are a nightmare! There’s also the people who come in when they should be self isolating so it makes you feel very vulnerable.
Thank you for this information. I am over 70 but not in the vulnerable groups of people with underlying health conditions. It is difficult to self isolate for any length of time so my heart goes out to all members here in this situation. I live around 2 minutes walk to my local Co-op so I will continue to shop daily from there as long as essential items remain on the shelves. Happy to chat with anyone here who needs to be in contact with others during this troubling time. Chin up everyone as we can get through this!
Are you having a laugh , we remain calm but authorities and airlines aren’t , we have just had our 5 th cancellation of flights from South Africa to UK for Tom or after ( we are emigrating ) Our dog is on the flight and arriving at Heathrow. Ed are stuck her , sold our house , car and everything else. Now believe UK is going into total shutdown
Sorry to hear that - must be even more of a stressful time than it should be! I’m in the U.K. and as yet I don’t believe we are lockdown, though things are fast changing ☹️. I’m sure someone better placed can advise but I would suggest contacting the consulate or other such Authority?? I really wish I could do more to help you - sorry ☹️! Thinking of you and sincerely hope you get things sorted soon! 🤗 x
I am in isolation due to being in a high risk group also.my anxiety has gone through the roof,I miss going to work, for the social aspect.i talk to family on the phone,but it is not the same as they usually visit quite a lot and this is only week one.
Can you do any of your work from home. I find using video call on Whatsapp much more personal that just normal phonecall. Check online for training courses etc that you could complete in your time at home
I know how you feel. Yes, I do. But it's because that's what I went through when I retired. In the ensuing years I have filled my empty days with an abundance of activities. Even when all my out of the home events, meetings and whatnot were cancelled I discovered that I am still quite busy here. Hobbies have been reawakened over the past couple of years, so I putter away on those (music, drawing, needlepoint) and new activities like trying to learn new languages or brush up my rather awful French online, or relearning tai chi from YouTube..... it all makes for enough variety in my day that the enormity of what we are facing has not quite hit me yet, and I think I have managed to deflect the worst of the impact.
I do have the advantage of living in an area when I can get out of doors for a walk and practice "social distancing" with anyone I meet - no crowds. A bit of outdoor air, and sunshine if you can get it, are very therapeutic.
I've heard of people who have taken up creative cooking and baking. That wouldn't be my choice, but it works for some.
And you can always come on here for a bit of commiseration. 🤗
My anxiety levels are increasing too so fully understand - we all got sent home to work yesterday and I hadn’t done a day and felt like climbing up the walls! I hate rush hour traffic but would be glad to get back to it - at least it means a normal life!
I get why we are all having to change our lives temporarily but like you I miss a change of scenery, the social side etc of being in a work place!
I really hope you stay well, the time goes quickly for you bless! If you enjoy reading, maybe try a new author, try a new hobby, take on an on-line course..? Hope that gives you some ideas to help 🤗 x
I am working from home. Yesterday I had a bit of a cough, a mild sore throat and a fever. Im awaiting our health service to contact me for testing. If you like I can keep you up to date on how this all works. I am feeling well today. I have been in isolation since Saturday
Aaw luv you! I hope you get your answers soon and you carry on feeling ‘ok’ bless! I would appreciate updates please as I think it would be good to know how to cope - I live with parents of the vulnerable age & health groups plus I have (mild) asthma. Work sent us all home to work yesterday so my anxiety levels are quickly ramping up too! 🤗 x
I am trying to be really careful as do not want to end up back in hospital but my manager wants our team in the office all day, though most of the rest of the company who aren't in critical roles now work at home after the government advice. Accidentally found out someone went home with suspected covid-19 but the employer has no responsibility to warn us, as claiming not contagious until symptoms obvious!
WOW 378 replies, we are doing what is necessary to stay healthy & I am checking in here to see what's up if any body needs to talk or wants to talk I am hanging around. I am just a message away follow the rules about hand washing & coughing or sneezing into your elbow or a tissue. I believe we will all come thru this like all the other crisis.
If you have access to a car the National Trust are opening up their grounds and car parks for free, obviously the properties will be closed, but good for people who want to get out in the fresh air for some gentle exercise. Also if you are having difficulty getting a food delivery the Co-op seems to have plenty of delivery slots, at least in my local area they do! You have to spend over £15 but are only allowed a maximum of 20 items, the range is a little limited but they have some of the basics (no toilet paper though).
we are self isolating as my daughter who is at university devloped virus like symptoms after visiting us , so far they are not sever but she is trying to do her disertation which is hard when you feel ill . she tried to get an online delivery of groceries but could not book a slot for two and half weeks !!! fortunently a kind fellow student whent and got htem for her.
my other daughter is on the front line and works as a paramedic each day a significant amount of her calls are to virus related calls ,so i am very worried about her.
i have just read one of the posts about the co op so will tell my daughter.
my mother always had a store of food she said it was because of living through the war, i used to say the shop is down the road , as always mothers know best!
Hello everyone,
Thanks so much for your overwhelming support and feedback.
Following a vast amount of replies to this post of people sharing their experiences, concern and queries, we have rebranded the Positive Wellbeing community as a space for people to connect with others who are self isolating or in social distancing phase.
The community will allow individuals to share their tips, advice and experiences on how to keep healthy during this unique moment.
In New Brunswick Canada we have been officially declared a state of emergency the week. Most businesses , stores ,pubs restaurants, schools etc. have been closed to the public. I know when having epilepsy we tend to feel some anxiety especially now. Make sure you have enough meds on hand as that is so important. Hope everyone can start following the protocol for this virus as it may be a lengthy journey for everyone. Keep busy, stay safe and healthy.
This month has been interesting....so many 'normal' life things have been canceled or placed on hold. I really don't understand why we are so locked down. I mean, I get it, and yet how long can we realistically do this. We all need people. We need to see each other, touch each other, be with each other. Life is not meant to be lived alone and in isolation. Either way, I doing ok with the help of my typical [URL="professionalsupplementcente...] supplements. Say what you want, but supplements are getting me through this time.
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I have lots of time on my hands! 
