Are you planning to have your child vaccinated for swine flu? Take our survey (below right).

I can’t pass this opportunity up. I am not a doctor, but a mom plain and simple. I survived H1N1. Everyone in my house had it – everyone but me. So here I sit with 6 days of it under my belt with some thoughts on the whole thing. I sure hope it doesn’t hit your house, but here’s some real advice from a real mom who just survived the real deal. I do realize I can still get it. But for now, score 1 for Mom!

1. You can never have enough tissues, hand sanitizer, antibacterial kitchen and bathroom spray, paper towels, soft blankets and pillows, DVDs, books, hard candy flavors, beverages . . . and the list really does go on. Start making yours now.
2. Just when you think it’s over, it can return, so watch those temperatures and congestion. We were five days in with our daughter, and she came down ready for school on day 6 with a 102-degree temperature. Now the fear was pneumonia, so drain those noses as quick as possible, and call your pediatrician for next steps. (Note: The temp dropped that afternoon and hasn’t been back.)
3. Naps are your friend. Please stop what you are doing and nap/rest when your patients do. They are up at all times of the night, so you’ve got to be as rested as possible. I chose to do laundry. I washed the sheets and my cell phone. I should have taken a nap!
4. Record your favorite shows. When the house is quiet, that’s your time. Cherish it.
5. Start deep breathing. There is going to be a time when your patience is going to run thin, and the deep breath helped me stay focused and not emotional. The demands are high (fluids, tissue, hugs, hunger), but what else can you do? Just when you go to sit down, it’s meal time, medicine time, change the DVD time, take the temp time . . . you are the chosen one. You are fortunate not to have the bug, but you get to nurse those who do.
6. You will look at a drug store in a whole new way. It was like a field trip for me. The 20-minute trip would be just enough for me to replenish supplies and refresh myself. I’d come back with new lozenges, beverages, dollar treats and a smile.

So I wish you good luck . . . and wash your hands!

Learn more about Julie

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Categories: *Speaking of Which ... by Julie Stensland, All Articles, Parents Panel
Tags: features