Super Dok

Latest Medical News

2008-12-10T03:03:00.000+08:00

I am moving

2008-11-09T11:18:00.003+08:00

Yes, my dear readers, I am moving to a new home. This new blog will serve as continuation of this blog. And all updates will already be posted on this new site.

Superdok will remain in existence but will no longer be updated. You can continue to go back to it and you can still post your comments as I promise to continue to manage the comment section. I know that most of my readers continue going back to my old posts especially those concerning health. In my new site there will be more of this kind as I promise to give you the latest in the field of Medicine.

So, please don't get lost. Come along and travel with me as I move to my new home - HEARTBIT.

All Saints' Day Celebration

2008-11-01T09:15:00.003+08:00

We woke up early today just so we can be at the cemetery at six in the morning. Me and hubby prefer to be there early as it would be too hot when the sun is up. My mom who celebrated the occasion this time with us just can't believe that there are already a number of people at that time. She used to go to the cemetery at nine or ten in the morning.

By the time we are ready to leave, that is after offering prayers and flowers to our dead relatives (up to my great great grandparents), there was already plenty of people around and I was beginning to feel the heat. Our prayers would be interrupted every now and then by people greeting us, mostly patients and old acquaintances.

It is tradition also to offer prayers for the dead at home together with relatives and friends. The host family should be ready with a variety of kakanin (cooked glutinous rice with coconut cream and sugar as the basic ingredients) to be served as snacks after the hour-long prayer. Today I prepared inlube (smoked glutinous rice cooked in coconut cream and sugar, picture here) and nilatikan (glutinous rice with caramelized sugar topping). I am also anticipating that some relatives would like to stay over until lunch so I also prepared something that every body love - pork and chicken adobo.

I know of some people who do not agree at all with all these traditions - going to the cemetery to visit the dead relative on November 1, praying and offering flowers on this day when one can do it at any time of the year. Very true. But then when a person lives in a place away from where the dead was buried, visiting will be a problem if there is no holiday that would free us from work.

I believe that the occasion does not only entail us to visit the dead and offer prayers. It is also a time when public cemeteries are cleaned, tombs repainted, and memories rekindled.

Happy Halloween!

Why many drop-out from exercise

2008-10-18T09:31:00.005+08:00

Not all people are averse to exercise. In fact most try to start but fail to continue, even if they try different kinds. They are overly zealous at the start, only to drop out after a few days. When asked, they simply give lots of reasons in justification for dropping out, such as they are too busy it cannot fit in their schedule, it is not safe anymore where they used to jog, the gym is too far from where they live,etc. etc. etc. But the reason may be far deeper.

Exercising is the key to healthy life. If you can give it at least ten to fifteen minutes everyday then you are doing something great for your body. It is the cheapest means to a long life if coupled with a healthy diet.

I have been exercising ever since I graduated from medical school, stopping only during illness, pregnancy, and puerperium. I regularly do it four to six times a week, forty-five minutes to an hour. It is not easy. There are days that I feel so lazy to start but I push myself to do it. The benefits it can give my body is enough reason to make me move.

To start with, do not set long-time goals. Give yourself only three weeks to a month of regular exercise. Once you have seen the changes in your body, I am very sure that you will continue for the rest of your life. You don't want to ever go back to your previously bad shape.

Do something that you will surely enjoy. This way you will have no reason to stop. It can be dancing, swimming, biking, or aerobics.

Do it on your free time while watching the news or your favorite soap. A few minutes wont hurt your schedule.

As your progress, you can stretch the time to a few more minutes thus challenging your body even more. If possible, add other variations. Weight-lifting is best for the elderly.

Vary your routine daily. Doing the same kind of exercise everyday makes your body adapt. Thus, your weight plateaus and no changes will be noted.

It doesn't hurt to try. Please give yourself a chance.

photo credit here

Experiences with the Unknown

2008-10-12T15:55:00.007+08:00

I don't exactly know what to call them - ethereal beings, ghosts, or spirits.But I am reminded of them whenever I stay in a hotel, for it is there where I often encounter them. And sometimes in our own house. I believe that in every place there is this "someone" who watches over it. That is why we pray for these souls for them to find peace.

No, I don't actually see them. But I know when there is one in a place, for I can feel "it". It is the feeling of being watched, of having a silent companion, of a presence. Luckily, I have yet to encounter one who makes sounds or moves objects. That will surely cause me to flee, the fastest I can ever imagine.

My colleagues have already told me a lot of stories regarding their own eerie experiences in Subic hotels. In one, a couple, both doctors, left their three kids in the hotel while attending a conference. Their kids had a great time playing with kids from the next room. Upon arrival at the hotel that night, the couple heard from the kids how they enjoyed playing with their new friends - the kids from the next room. The following day, the kids were already looking for their friends even before the couple could leave for the day's conference. They were knocking on their neighbor's door but nobody answers. In desperation, they asked their parents to ask the hotel management if the next-room occupants had already left. They were told that they were the only occupants of that floor since they arrived.

Another story, also in a hotel in Subic. A group of medical representatives checked-in in a hotel to attend a company meeting the following day. Two of them were assigned to a room. They were both tired from the day's work and from the long travel so they decided at once to bathe then sleep early. Apparently, the one who asked to bathe first changed his mind without telling the other. He went outside instead to have a smoke. The one who was left inside the room was getting impatient why his partner had to take a bath that long. He was hearing the shower being turned on and off, the water splattering, and other sounds we normally hear when one is in the shower. He then decided to text his partner to ask him what' s keeping him from getting out of the shower and to tell him to make it quick and finish it. Immediately he received an answer: "Pare, nandito ako sa labas nagyoyosi."(Friend, I am here outside having a smoke.) He hastily gathered his things, ran outside and went home that very night.

It was also a nighttime in May when me and hubby arrived in a hotel in Subic. I jokingly asked the attendant if there are spirits around before we were shown to our room. He answered that there are none of those in the length of his stay in the hotel. My hubby had to attend a dinner meeting that night upon our arrival so I have no choice but to be left alone in the room. I tried to busy myself and divert my mind to other things by watching TV, unpacking, getting ready to bed. But I can really feel that I was not alone. As I have said I do not see but I can feel. In the corner of the room was a table and a chair, and that's where I can feel it. I tried to turn up the volume of the TV but it didn't help. So, I turned it off and I started talking. I was telling that I was not a threat, that I was just there to have a place to stay only for two days, and I was asking for peace during our stay. I then recited the Holy Rosary aloud. After which I did not feel anything anymore up to the time we went home.

How about you? Do you have experiences of this sort?

A time for bonding with kids

2008-10-06T15:29:00.006+08:00

Ever since school started this June, each member of my family had been very busy - the kids with their studies, MTAP reviews, and preparations for the different school activities; me and hubby with our work. Of course, we were yearning to have a break, something that would change the monotony of things. And the invitation by Merck for a summit in Baguio City last week just came at the right time - no long exams and projects to rush for the kids. It was a time to take a break.

Whenever me and hubby attended conventions, conferences, scientific meetings in the past, whether out of town or just nearby, we never brought the kids with us. It is not because we don't want them to enjoy. They were just too young then and I worry a lot for their safety when I have to leave them in the hotel room. I figured they might get bored and might go out of the room and start looking for me.

Everything changed after our PSP convention in Tagaytay last year when a colleague told me that kids are meant to be taken anywhere - where the parents go, the kids go. And so this time, they went with us. It was a precious time for the whole family. More so, it was bonding time for me and the kids for I stayed with them most times while my hubby had to attend to several lectures for diabetes and hypertension. Yes, I was not able to update myself with these topics but it is nothing compared to the grand time I had with my kids.

We stayed in The Suites, an extension of The Manor hotel. It was not fully finished yet. But there were a few rooms ready for occupancy and we stayed in one of those. It was great, the food is excellent, and the weather is lovely. We strolled and played games in the park, went shopping, dined out in the kids' favorite spots. It was fun and full of memories. Now I know my kids are ready - to join us in conferences out of town, to fend for themselves when Mom is away, and to take care of each other. I just know we will have more of this in the future.

I can't believe he quit

2008-09-22T12:20:00.007+08:00

I have been teaching in the LNU College of Medicine for almost ten years now. I have seen quite a few students who gave up the course, mostly because they are not persistent or persevering enough. I believe that intelligence is not the question because I've seen average students graduate and practice their profession as doctors.

At the start of the school year, he was the leader of the group, hence was elected as the class president. He had been very active in class - during recitations, discussions, and reporting. He takes care of every detail that needed his attention, for the benefit of his group. I cannot help but notice him. His prominence made me anxious to know more about him. And I learned that he was the summa cum laude when he graduated from nursing, and the son of a surgeon.

His performance was good. I believe he will be a promising doctor someday. And I was thinking that this man will bring the name of the school to the front pages of newspapers when he takes the physician board. But I was shocked to know that he gave up the course barely two months before the semester ends. Of all people... I cannot believe it!

His classmates gave no answer. He just said his goodbye without giving any reason. Maybe he will go to the States and work as a nurse. Earning money is easier that way while studying Medicine brings with it a lot of difficulties. I really have no idea. But how come his parents allowed him to study medicine when he has plans to work abroad. It was after all a waste of time and money.

If it is true that he will work as a nurse (this is only my hunch) in a foreign country, there is really nothing wrong to it and I'm wishing him well. But fulfilling ones dream is for me of prime importance. The feeling of regret is just too hard to bear when one is already old and there is no more turning back. It is something that will haunt you for the rest of your life. And I have seen it happen.

Daytime Thieves

2008-09-12T09:10:00.004+08:00

Thieves used to do their crime only at night or during the wee hours of the morning, when people are inside their houses, sleeping soundly. There has been several occasions recently when these criminals sneak out in broad daylight, just when people leave their houses to go to work, or just go to the grocery or market to buy whatever they need. In just a matter of minutes of absence, their houses had already been looted, emptied of all valuable belongings.

Just two weeks ago, a colleague experienced this kind of thing. He was in his clinic that day. By noon, he received a call from his wife that they had been robbed. His wife and daughter just came from the mall and bought some groceries. They were away for only an hour, imagine that. And all their appliances - television, desktop computer, a brand new laptop, magic sing karaoke - GONE! Plus all the jewelries, owned and for sale (the wife is a jewelry agent).

Several months ago, just after typhoon Cosme, a family had to move to a rented house while the house they own is being repaired because of damages caused by the typhoon. While husband and wife are at work and the kids are in the school, they also experienced the same thing. All their valuables including personal belongings were stolen. They were left with nothing except what they have with them at that time.

Will reporting to the police help? Well, they will just go to the place, look around, record the incident, and make kwento. Maybe just to appease the victim and make him feel that he is not alone experience wise.

It is best that we should be wary of what we say especially to strangers, be vigilant always, and don't leave the house unattended. Being friends with your neighbors may also help.

Just for Laughs

2008-09-11T09:31:00.005+08:00

Sample medicines coming from drug companies, and given out by medical representatives to promote their products are getting fewer nowadays. To cut the cost of promotion, they give out mostly fliers, small boxes of tissue or cotton balls, local magazines, carton fans, or just about anything which is made of paper and which would make our trash can full at the end of the day.

I was going through the magazines before throwing them away when I came across one with "Just for Laughs" corner, my favorite section in any magazine. A few laughs will make your day. So I'm sharing this with you.

Painless labor for mom and dad!

A lady and her husband, who went to the hospital to give birth to their child, heard of a new technology from the doctor, which would transfer the labor pain from the mother to the father.

The couple were both excited and very much in favor of it. The doctor however said that, to start with, he would transfer only 10% of the pain, as even that small amount of pain would be too much for the father. They agreed and the doctor started the transfer.

The father did not show any signs of pain as the doctor kept on increasing the amount of transfer. The transfer was complete at one stage with 100% pain transferred to the father. The father was comfortable even at that stage and the mother delivered the baby. The couple left the hospital with the baby, literally painless and ecstatic, only to return home and find the mailman dead on the porch! by Edwin Villapa

Happy Birthday, Ralph!

2008-09-09T00:00:00.001+08:00

I was initially scheduled for cesarean section on September 8, 2001 by my obstetrician, the reason why I had myself admitted on September 7. But so many mothers wanted to deliver on that day so that their kid's birthday would coincide with Mama Mary's. My doctor had to move me a day later so she can accommodate them. I didn't mind. What mattered most to me was to have a safe delivery. And Ralph turned out to be a very healthy baby.

It was an unexpected pregnancy. I did not know until he was already two months in my tummy. I was so glad yet a little apprehensive at the same time. I was not ready for another difficult pregnancy like my previous one. But I just continued with my normal routine until it was time for me to deliver. It turned out that it was not a difficult pregnancy after all.

From infancy to toddler stage, it was not difficult either to take care of Ralph. He would sleep for long hours especially when I put him in prone position on my chest, while I lay on the bed. I watched him sleep during his early days and softly caressed his soft body.

As he began to eat solid foods, I noticed that his taste is so bland. He prefers to eat spaghetti sans the sauce, bread without any kind of spread on it, just plain mayonnaise on his toast, and plain rice. He hates it if I prepare fried rice, especially the one with lots of ingredients in it. He would painstakingly get rid of all the solid ingredients from his rice if he had no choice. He is a very picky eater and he hates new recipes. He would prefer the same thing over and over again. But he loves anything sweet - from candies, chocolates, cakes, ice cream, etc. The exact opposite of his elder brother.

He started playing Game Boy at age two. The toy was actually a gift for his elder brother, Raymund. But the moment he set eyes on it, he fell in love with it. And it became his right that very moment. He tried so hard not to depart with it, putting it on the bedside table while he sleeps, and brings it with him wherever he go. He started to bring it to school when he started schooling at age three. What amazes me is his ability to finish an entire game within an hour or two. And he would be asking for a new cartridge again.

He has this penchant for playing and manipulating computers even at a very young age, even at an age when I was not sure yet if he can really decipher the words. I had this feeling that he understood computers very well, as if he and the computer are one.

Ralph is now in grade 1. His interest to his subjects seem to diminish as compared to his performance during his preschool years. I'd like to think that he is just having a hard time adjusting in grade school. Maybe because of staying long hours in school, so many subjects to study, left and right assignments, long hours of studying.

His attitude changed a lot, too. He would cry at the slightest provocation, even at just the sight of a list of things to memorize. I'm taking it easy on him though. I just hope that he'll be more confident and develop a more positive attitude. I know he will get by.

Today, Ralph turns 7. How time flies so fast! We celebrated his birthday this weekend in Baguio City, where he shopped for the things he loved most - toys! He bought several Spiderman toys including 2 Spiderman cartridges for his Game Boy.

Ralph, we love you so much. I want to thank you for being a good child and for just being there.

Dad's Pinoy Bistek

2008-09-04T13:07:00.010+08:00

This is my dad's version of Bistek. He used to cook this dish when I was still young and it became my regular baon on school days - from preschool up to high school. When I went to study in Manila for college, Dad would bring it with him whenever he and Mom visited me and my sister.

This recipe is quite special to me. It has a nostalgic effect not only to me but also to my sister. I missed this dish so much that I made it a point to have a kilo of beef during those Saturdays he was visiting us. I thought it was high time that I learn to cook it.

Dad generously shared his procedure. On the first time he did it, I just watched. Then I was able to do it two times before I got it perfectly. There were no measurements given to me and I had to rely on my taste. It was on my third attempt to cook this dish when I was able to get a picture. My family love it, I'm sure you will, too! Anyway, here is how:

Ingredients:
1 kilo of thinly sliced meaty part of beef
2 eggs
2 cups vinegar
1 cup soy sauce
1 onion
1 whole garlic
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper (add more if you like)
1/2 teaspoon ground pickles (optional)

Slice the meat thinly and pound a little. On a big mixing bowl, mix the onion, garlic, salt, and pepper with the beef, massaging them into the meat with your hands. Add the soy sauce and vinegar. When everything has been thoroughly mixed, add the eggs (and pickles if you want). Mix again. Make sure every part of the beef is well coated. Leave the mixture in the refrigerator overnight.

Next day, heat around one tablespoon cooking oil in a pan then saute the beef, onion and garlic. When the beef changes color, add the marinade and let it cook until beef becomes tender. Add salt and pepper according to your taste. That's it. Enjoy your meal!

Meet My Maids

2008-09-02T07:06:00.006+08:00

Getting and maintaining maids are some of the domestic problems most mothers have. My sister is not an exception. She changes maids almost every month, and finding a new one always means trouble. When she is able to get a new one, by the time the maid learns the routine she is again ready to go. I am lucky enough to have two maids who had been with me for years, even before my child Ralph came into this world.

Meet Lanie. She came from Tabugoc, Pandan, Catanduanes, the very place where my husband was raised. She was just 17 when she came to me, a girl so naive, though she worked for a few years in one family in Manila. I taught her how to cook, her primary job then, and how to properly clean the house. During those times, she relied on my instructions, doing only what I asked her to do.

When I became pregnant with my second child, I asked her to be his nanny, and she gladly agreed. I brought her to Manila when I was getting ready for my operation (2nd CS). She was with me in the hospital when I gave birth, up to the time we came out of the hospital, and to the day we went home to the province. She was so thrilled to see the baby, to hold him in her arms, and to learn the basics in taking care of him.

She was very good in her job, and I learned to relax and to go back to work after a few weeks of giving birth. She learned to love my son, treating him as his own brother. She reported to me through the intercom any concern that needed my attention. She saw Ralph's firsts, and she would gladly show me his new developments.

It has been ten years since Lanie arrived, Ralph is now in grade one and turning 7 on September 9. She watches over him even in school. I know she loves Ralph very much, even fighting for him when he is about to be bullied. She is the first to complain when she notices that Ralph is not given enough attention.

Meet my other maid, Gina, Lanie's cousin, now in her 40s. She came as a substitute to her sister, Bing, Raymund's nanny. But since Raymund does not need anymore close supervision when she came, her assignment became cooking and cleaning the house, among other things.

She wakes up at the crack of dawn to prepare the day's first meal, goes to market, cooks for lunch and dinner, and brings the kids' lunch to school. She was not perfect when she started especially when it comes to cooking. But she eventually learned in time. Now she cooks so well and can definitely earn a living with her own carinderia in the future. She has been with me for seven years now.

They came when me and my husband were just starting out as a couple. They have grown with us, became part of my family. They work spontaneously at home, no need for me to tell what needs to be done. They have done so by the time I notice.

I'm sure not everybody will agree with how I treat them- they eat at the same time with us, eat what we eat, comes together with us in family outings and all family activities, including attending the Holy Mass. I will do the same to anybody who comes after them.

They have their day-offs. They are free to watch movie with friends, attend parties, or celebrate birthdays at home. Of course they have their own moods, as they are only human. But when they have learned their lesson, they know how to say sorry.

What I love about them is that they know how to sacrifice their own schedules for the advantage of my family. Six years ago, when I was scheduled for a back operation (discectomy and laminectomy) which coincided with Lanie's schedule to visit her family in Bicol, she decided to postpone without me telling her to. It was something I appreciated, sacrificing her once-a-year vacation so that she can take care of the kids while I was confined in the hospital.

I know that one day they will leave to have a life of their own, especially when they have found Mr. Right. It would be hard to let go, as they have been part of me and my family. But when I tell them so, they would say that they will still take care of my kids' children, laughing at how they would look by then.

There is no secret in making them stay that long. I just let them feel that they belong.

And he is gone again (Part II)

2008-09-01T08:29:00.003+08:00

(I'm so glad our internet connection is back and I can blog at home.)

Our action was met with rejection on his part. He decided not to come anymore on Saturdays for follow ups. He asked us not to wait for him anymore, that he is old anyway and nearing death, and that we should not take it negatively if he refuse the love we offer him.

Of course, it hurt me a lot. It dawned on me that no matter what happens he will not leave them. Even if it costs him his life.

I was still waiting for him on the fourth Saturday, hoping that maybe he will change his mind, but he did not come. I let the day past trying to forget everything that happened. Questions like: "Was I being selfish?", "Was my decision wrong?", kept haunting me.

On a Sunday at ten in the evening, he called up my husband. He was not feeling well. We just came from a party that night and I was so exhausted. I decided not to see him anymore when he arrived at our house, knowing my husband can do his job well. It was a wrong decision, for he did not called nor visited again.

It has been two weeks, and there's no news from him. I'm hoping that he is okay. I wish his condition will not worsen, in which time he would see us again.

And he is gone again

2008-08-27T11:14:00.002+08:00

For three consecutive Saturdays my dad was with us. He came at seven in the morning. He joined us for breakfast after all needed examinations were done. He was always enthusiastic and happy, as if on top of the world. He shared to us a lot of his past experiences, most of them I heard so many times before. Except for his health and his already aging body, he is very much the same. He is still the dad I spent a lot of my childhood memories with.

First Saturday. He spent breakfast and lunch with us. In between, he chatted with my kids, asked them too many questions with regards to their studies. It was his first time to spend more than an hour with them. He was observing them and was constantly giving them advises. He went home after lunch.

Second Saturday. He brought us fresh produce from the market. How thoughtful of him. He looked more relaxed and at home now that he begun exploring the entire house, something he never did during his past visits. He stayed the whole day and even went with us when we attended the anticipated mass later that day. He bought crabs on our way home from the church, offered to cook, and stayed for dinner. It was late when he bade goodbye.

Third Saturday. Dad was his usual self, even happier I think. He brought with him some clothes this time. I was hesitant to ask but I suspected that he would stay for the night. And he did. He cooked ginataang tilapia for and ginataang alimango for dinner. I never knew he is fond of cooking anything with coconut cream. He never really did that when I was still growing up.

The following day, Sunday, Dad woke up earlier than all of us. Since it is my time of tutoring the kids, he spent most of his Sunday morning watching TV alone or talking to the maids. It was in the afternoon when he asked my husband to prescribe some medicine to his adopted son who is suffering from cough and colds. The boy came with the driver when the latter fetched him.

After he left, we decided to tell Dad through text that we love treat him and care for him but not with any member of his other family. There were previous occasions that we treated each one of them, and we allowed it because we were hoping that it would end there. But it did not.

(to be continued)

Sunday, a Family Day

2008-08-24T17:27:00.002+08:00

I love Sundays! It is always the day I looked forward to every week. It is the day when the whole family is at home, enjoying our free time together.

Our family always spend our Sundays at home, except on special occasions when we have to attend meetings, birthdays, etc. It is the day when the kids make their homework, getting ready for the school day ahead. It is also the day when we watch TV or DVDs together. It is the day when I prepare something special for my family to eat. It is always my day in the kitchen.

Because of our internet problem, we just can't refrain from going out today. We need to go to the mall where the internet cafe is. To my surprise, there are lots of people in the mall. Even having a seat in the internet cafe took each of us 15 minutes to wait.

Outside the cafe, people are just chatting with one another trying to catch up with the latest news. Some are just window shopping, others are just plain lazying out wearing slippers and house clothes. Well, doing that is waste of time for me. I'd rather stay at home than walk endlessly in the mall trying to kill time.

Avoiding Miscarriage

2008-08-24T17:07:00.002+08:00

Several factors are associated with miscarriage. Oftentimes if it's not genetic, or a previous history, it is work-related. As doctors, we often advise patients to take a rest and avoid stressful situations. We also advise refraining from or totally avoiding smoking or alcohol consumption.

In a recent US study, it has been found that high doses of caffeine also increases risk for miscarriage. It was mentioned in the paper that high doses meant caffeine of more than 200mg. This is approximately around three cups of coffee and around five cans of caffeinated softdrinks.

So, if you are pregnant, it better to totally refrain from drinking anything with caffeine. It is better to be safe than to be sorry.

No Internet Connection Again!

2008-08-24T16:56:00.002+08:00

Today is Sunday, and I'm spending a part of it in an internet cafe just because we have no internet connection AGAIN. Our internet provider, Digitel DSL, failed to provide us connection for almost two weeks now for the same reason as before - stolen cable.

My husband already contacted their office but they just couldn't do anything. We just have to wait. But until when is really a problem. There is no definite date given.

The problem is we still have to pay in full though the problem is on their part. This has really affected my family. And that include the kids. Internet connection is really a necessity in our household.

We did not sign the waver

2008-08-11T12:46:00.008+08:00

Raymund, now a ten-year old boy, pursued his dream to become a varsity player. Of course, we are very supportive of him, preparing everything he needs for the first tournament, an event sponsored by Milo. Everything is now ready. BUT there's one last thing we had to do as parents - to sign a waver.

They (the organizers) don't actually call it as waver. They call the paper they are asking parents to sign as "application form". It is stated in the paper that "we, the organizers and the school, have no liability for whatever happens to your child during the tournament".

My husband and I refused to sign simply because signing will leave us with nothing but to accept the consequences just in case something happens. Basketball is a rough game and anything can happen. This already happened to a doctor-friend of ours whose daughter met an accident while performing in the cheering squad. The kid was on the third level, standing on the shoulders of her team mates who were in the second level, when she fell to the floor, her head banging on the ground. The father spent a fortune for his daughter's hospitalization with not a single cent from the school nor the organizers, just because he signed the waver. Luckily, his daughter is alive and the accident left no permanent damage.

We asked the school to allow Raymund to play, without us signing the paper. They then referred us to the organizers. The representatives of Milo called us up, asking us why we are "afraid" that something might happen. They said they prefer that Raymund be removed from the team rather than joining with incomplete requirements. But the school does not want to remove him knowing his capability. Raymund is the star player. And so he stayed.

It is not actually a question of being afraid. As parents, we want the best for Raymund. We want him safe wherever he is and whoever he is with. Signing the waver removes that responsibility from the organizers to take care of these kids, not just with Raymund. They just don't want any liability.PERIOD.

On Raymund's part, joining the varsity is voluntary, no one pressured him, no one asked him. He just like to do it, to play bearing the name of his school. And we pay the tuition fee in full, with no discounts, even him as varsity player.

The decision is that the organizers will have to observe how he play on the first game. If he is not good enough, he is out of the team. My son is quite apprehensive. I know he wants to say as a varsity player. We explained to him our point and I know he understands.

UPDATE: My son has been totally disqualified from the Milo tournament. But he is definitely joining the IRAA games.

The Importance of Sleep

2008-08-04T09:19:00.006+08:00

Busy individuals are so used to depriving themselves of quality sleep just to get things done. I myself is not an exception. Because of too many things to do and with too little time, that is the most appropriate thing to do at the moment.

Coming from a family of diabetics, I am at risk of having one. But with regular exercise, and at the age of 42, I do my best to keep free from the disease. And I can say that so far, I am successful in that aspect. Lately, I read a study conducted by University of Chicago that suppressing deep slow-wave sleep for three consecutive nights increases the risk of having diabetes. So, this I have to work on.

Slow-wave sleep is the deep, restful type occurring at the onset of sleep, that is during the first hour, interrupted periodically by REM sleep, then recurs again. It comprises around 75% of the total sleep time of a young adult. The brain waves at this stage of sleep are very slow, and there is decrease in up to 30% of the blood pressure, respiratory rate, and basal metabolic rate. It is the stage of sleep that restores the normal balance among the neuronal centers.

In the study, it has been found that depriving one's self for three nights of adequate quality sleep decreases insulin sensitivity. This means that the body's ability to process glucose is reduced and thus increase diabetes risk.

See, reduced amounts of deep sleep is really bad. It has been associated with aging, obesity, and metabolic abnormalities. Now, with diabetes. So, I see to it that I don't deprive myself of sleep three nights in a row, even during my busy days. I want to live long enough to see my future grandchildren, or even my great grandchildren.

A Journey to the Movie house

2008-07-27T08:30:00.007+08:00

The last time I entered a movie house was....uhm....years ago ( I don't actually remember exactly when). It is because it is more convenient for us to watch DVDs at home. Well, as part of my hubby's birthday celebration, I watched a movie on a weekday with the entire family.

Choosing a movie that would suit everyone, especially my six-year-old boy, is a must. I don't want anybody going out of the movie house in the middle of the story just because he is bored or something. So I have to read reviews on the different films being shown and be able to choose the best for our group. It was good it was the first day of screening of Journey to the Center of the Earth. All of us did really enjoy the movie.

It is a fantasy, action, adventure movie with Brendan Fraser as Professor Trevor Anderson, a teacher and the head of the Center of Volcanic Activity. His brother, Max, a scientist, disappeared when he placed the monitoring units he built around the world. Trevor found a secret code in Max's book which matches with volcanic activity numbers. So in his quest to find out what happened to Max, and to check one of his units, he and Sean, Max's son, flew to Iceland. Together with Hannah, a beautiful mountain guide, the three of them were trapped in an abandoned mine. Their search for a way out and be able to return to the surface lead to their discovery of dangerous places and fantasy land found in the center of the earth.

Very nice movie, indeed. Kids will surely enjoy watching it. Actually, there are lots of new movies that can be downloaded free in the internet. Within a span of one week , and with my busy schedule, I have watched four more movies downloaded from free the net - Kung Fu Panda, Hancock, Wanted, and Wall-E. Isn't that nice? I feel so up to date!

Photo credit

No Exercise with Wii

2008-07-26T09:21:00.003+08:00

Many people think that playing with Nintendo's Wii active games console will give a good exercise and will lessen the risk for obesity. That is why parents buy the unit not only for the kids but for the entire family as well. Since kids love playing with computer games, they eagerly do the different games with Wii - boxing, bowling, tennis, racing, etc. And they can do it inside the comfort of their homes, together with the rest of the family.

Though there is nothing wrong with such games, research study from Liverpool John Moores University, England, recently shows that energy expenditure from such games is very trivial to be able to contribute to weight management that will lead away from obesity. This only means that there is no substitute to doing active sports like jogging, aerobics, swimming, biking and the like.

Some parents reason out that more and more children become obese nowadays because there is no more room for them to play actively compared to olden times when, there were more open spaces like vacant lots, public parks, backyards, where kids can run and play. These spaces have now been replaced by big buildings and structures thus limiting their activity. Well, that is very true but there are still options.

We all know that nobody is safe anymore to bike along the streets, or in the sidewalks. That is why we have stationary bikes, of different models, depending on the purpose that we want to use them. They are very convenient as we can use them while watching TV, or just binding with the kids, while inside our homes. The treadmill, manual or electricity driven, is another alternative which will allow you to burn fat adequately, providing high energy expenditure, also in the comfort of your own homes. And there are still more alternatives to choose from. It all depends on your preference.

Some people are lucky enough to still have the privilege to go out of their homes and do the sport itself. This is a lot better and there is no substitute for it. If you're one of them, then go out now and start your regular exercise.

Photo credit here

He turned 41 yesterday!

2008-07-23T10:44:00.005+08:00

Who else but the love of my life. My best friend. My adviser. My husband.

He was a heavy alcoholic drinker when I met him. Before we got married he asked me if I will still allow him to drink after we marry. I answered, " Yes, but only occasionally". I was expecting for him to complain but he kept silent. After we married, he became a totally changed man. He only drinks when my uncles ask him to, which is very seldom. I am even the one to tell him that he can drink when we are on parties, but he always decline. When I'm in the grocery, there are times that I buy 2 to 3 cans of beer, his favorite brands, but they are just allowed to expire in the fridge. He only drinks red wine nowadays, once a week, and that's because it is good for the heart.

My best friend turned out to be a very responsible father to our kids. He teaches them to be courteous to everyone, by correcting their manners as he sees them. He is very supportive to all their undertakings.

He was the laundryman and the house cleaner when we were starting out as a couple. He sometimes cook during those days, only when he was really sure of the recipe. Because of time constraints, he does not cook anymore, but he remained to be the driver, plumber, carpenter, and a very good provider.

Life with him is full of happiness. There are no regrets whatsoever. I'm just so lucky having him as my husband.

Happy Birthday, my love!

Don't tell me that I have forgotten it. No, it's beyond that. I was just too preoccupied with work these past days that I failed to find time to post. Anyways, I was the first one to greet you on you birthday.

Feelings of Acceptance

2008-07-16T14:36:00.002+08:00

One Sunday afternoon, my hubby told me that my dad called him up because of difficulty of breathing. He said that dad had it immediately after a short jog. Initially, of course, Randy don't know what to think. He has been dad's doctor for his hypertension and diabetes ever since we got married but dad was lost to follow up since he stopped coming home. It was a surprise for Randy to know that dad was still taking the same medicine he prescribed on his last visit. Randy requested for a chest x-ray, prescribed antibiotics for his cough, and asked him to visit us in our clinic.

The next morning, after bringing the kids to school, he again received a call from dad. He was already near our house but dad asked him to go back to Dagupan where he lives. Being the obedient child that he is, he obliged though patients are already waiting in his clinic. He had a short chat with dad over a cup of coffee and assured him that he'll be back the next day with his bag to examine him more thoroughly.

Of course I was surprised to know that he met with him, entered his house, and that he was going back. I was pressing him to tell me what the house look like, how dad looks like, how he is, who was with him when he visited, etc. But he said that I was going with him when he returns to dad's. I don't really know what to say or feel so I didn't answer. But honestly I was thinking about my feelings. What if there's somebody there aside from him when we visit? I was skeptical about going but Randy just laughed when asked if dad wants me to go with him.

I was still undecided but I know that I feel happy just thinking that I was gonna see him. In fact I even bought fruits for him. Maybe this is how it feels if a person finally accepted the situation.

Classes was canceled that Tuesday morning because of heavy rains. So instead of bringing the kids to school and visiting him afterward, the boys came along with us.

It was raining heavily. The maid opened the gate and instructed us to park inside. It is a big house with two cars in the parking space. Dad was in the front door waiting for us. He smiled when he saw the kids stepped out of the car.

My heart was pounding heavily. I hastily approached him, got his right hand and paid him respect. He looked at me and smiled, patted the boys and led us all to the receiving area. His adopted son was there and sat with us. Randy immediately examined him while I scanned the place sitting down.

Dad looked very different from when I last saw him months ago in Manila. He is skinny now. And his blood sugar is way too high. I instantly felt there is something really bad happening to him. After an explanation, he finally agreed to come with us in our clinic for more thorough examination. That was after we had a hearty breakfast with him and prepared by him.

After taking ECG, it saddened me to know that dad is suffering from myocardial infarction. This means that the artery supplying his heart is already blocked making his heart to malfunction. We advised hospitalization but he declined and just asked for medications instead. We advised him on the gravity of his condition and that he is free to call us anytime. He went home after taking his lunch with us.

I felt sorry to see him in this condition. Now I am praying that God will give him more days. To enjoy life with me and my family. To patch up whatever misunderstanding he had with mom and my sister, before it's too late. My feelings for him have not changed at all. I still love him despite his shortcomings. Now I'm sure that I have forgiven him.

No Internet Connection for Days

2008-07-12T08:58:00.003+08:00

I cannot imagine living nowadays with no internet connection. My entire family depend on it- the kids for their research works, me and hubby for our updates, e-mails, blogs, etc.

We are subscribing from Digitel DSL for several years now and we had no problem. After typhoon Cosme, people in our area learned that selling stolen cable lines will give them large amount of money (it's actually Php250 per kilo). And that's how all this problem started.

I had no problem with Digitel. The manager in their Dagupan City office was really sincere in telling us that they will do their best to restore connections. But it's the people in San Fabian, our town, particularly in Cayanga (our baranggay) and its neighbor, Longos, who are the problem. The moment the lines are replaced, they immediately steal them after the linemen left. They gave Digitel people hard time financially as well because these lines are actually expensive. I don't know what Digitel resorted to but it took them two weeks to restore everything.

Two weeks without internet connection was too long to bear. We had to go to internet cafes if there was really a need. The problem was that I don't have much free time to stay in the place because of my work and so I was not able to update my blogs.

During those two weeks, changing internet provider crossed our minds. But we had to pay around Php 3000 if we terminate our subscription from Digitel. I thought that was too much. So we managed to wait. But the next time it happens again, it's definitely bye-bye from Digitel.

Smart Kids

2008-06-28T08:00:00.000+08:00

It was Wednesday afternoon. Randy and I decided to meet in CSI City mall, a more convenient place for us to meet, instead of him fetching me in the medical school. It is faster that way, with less traffic because we will not be passing the downtown area.

When the kids learned that their Dad will see me in the mall, they called me up and asked permission to come. I insisted that they stay behind and just rest. But they insisted to go with their Dad.

When they approached the mall's parking area, the kids thought that they saw me walking in the lobby. They asked their Dad to drop them in the spot. Then Randy proceeded to look for a place to park.

The kids then walked towards the direction of the lady that they thought was me. After noticing that it was a stranger, it was too late to go back to the car. Their Dad was nowhere to find.

Being the kuya, Raymund thought of a way to find me. He felt that his brother was his responsibility as the younger one started to cry. He first thought of calling home to tell the maids where their exact location was. Because he left his cellphone at home, he asked the guard where to find a payphone. The instruction was so vague to him so he started to think for another way. The guard asked him who he was looking for and so he began to describe me. The guard told him that he saw a woman in violet pass by and went in the direction of the National Book Store. Since he knew I needed to buy some school supplies for both of them, he led his brother to the National Book Store. And it was there where they found me.

I was looking for a sketch pad when I heard the word "Mommy!" from somewhere near. I was very sure it was Raymund's voice. I turned around and saw my kids- Raymund wet with too much perspiration holding the hand of his brother. Ralph was crying and wrapped his arms around me immediately after he saw me.

I was then in a daze. I forgot everything on my list and just proceeded to pay what I was holding. Then I led them out of the book store into the parking area where their Dad was.

There is no blaming anybody. I consoled my kids and was just glad nothing bad happened to them. Yes, it was a bad experience for them but it was a learning experience.