ButYouDontLookSick.com

Healthy Snack Review: Crunch Dried Snacks from Sensible Foods

2008-05-14T20:11:02Z

It is Healthy Snack and Food Month at ButYouDontLookSick.com!

I've made a promise to myself that I would start eating healthier. I feel that the choices we make, with what enters our bodies, is definitely one thing we can do to help us feel better. It feels great to make positive choices. When you are like me and you have a chronic illness, it is so important to eat well. I think many times the reason we do not eat as well as we should is because we are just too tired to cook, or too tired to shop for the healthier choices. I found a great tasting crunchy, sweet snack that I am now officially addicted to. I didn't think it would be possible to be addicted to something healthy, but I am!

]]> Sensible Foods makes a variety of crunch dried snacks. They are in individual serving size packages, so that helps with portion control. (Trust me, you will want to eat a lot of this stuff.) This is the perfect snack to carry with you when traveling in the car, or just to eat when you get the "4 o'clock mid afternoon fuzzies."

I love that the packages have an ingredient list that says: Organic Apples and nothing else. Who can argue with that? I like eating things that I can pronounce and for once it is refreshing to see ingredients that I know and trust. Crunch Dried Fruit and Vegetable snacks are gluten free and are perfect snacks for Celiacs and other gluten
intolerant diseases. The products have no artificial colors or flavors and are perfect snacks for people who have a sensitivity to food additives. So many people living with chronic illness have these particular issues in mind when shopping for food.

If you are following the weight watchers diet, you will also be happy to hear that these great tasting snacks are only 1 point for the whole bag! If you are trying to get all your fruits and vegetables in your daily diet, 1 bag of these crunch dried snacks equals one of your 5 daily requirements for fruits and vegetables.

. Cherry Berry: Apples, cherries blueberries and strawberries
. 100% Organic Cherry Berry: The same mix as above, but USDA-certified
organic
. Orchard Blend: Apples, peaches and apricots
. 100% Organic Apple Harvest: Organic apples
. Organic Roasted Soy Nuts: Organic roasted soy beans, soy bean oil and
sea salt
. 100% Organic Super sweet Corn: Sweet corn and sea salt
. Tropical Blend: Apples, pineapples, mangos and bananas

My personal favorite was the Cherry Berry. I found that when I was craving a sweet snack, I was satisfied with these. The strawberries and cherries were as sweet as candy! I admit I am a chocoholic and I thought giving up sweets would be hard, but the fruit in these packs are so delicious that you want to grab a bag. I had a few of each flavor to try and I have already eaten the whole box! I know you might be thinking dried fruit that is nothing new, what's the big deal? Well I am here to tell you that this is the best dried fruit snack I have ever tried. So many dried fruits are chewy and rubbery, but because of the special low temperature and high vacuum "crunch dried" process these are crunchy and flavorful. The non fruit snacks, (corn and soy nuts) are a great substitute for chips or pretzels because they have a great blend of crunch and salt. This is my new favorite snack and I can not
recommend it more. Try some and you will be addicted too!

Product Review: ZEVIA® carbonated stevia supplement is THE NATURAL ALTERNATIVE TO DIET SODA®

2008-05-13T23:08:29Z

I am admittedly a diet soda junkie. I drink a few glasses a day and although I know it is not the best thing for me to drink, I enjoy it and miss it when I do not have a diet soda. I do not want the calories of regular soda, so what were my options? When I heard about Zevia I was anxious to try it.

]]> Zevia is an all natural carbonated drink, which contains no artificial sweeteners of any kind. Instead of using NutraSweet or Aspartame, this product uses stevia, an herb native to South and Central America used for centuries to sweeten food. Stevia is hundreds of times sweeter than sugar and has no effect on blood sugar levels. The drink is even certified Kosher. And for those watching their sugar intake, this drink is Sugar Free, with all the varieties/ flavors being 5 calories or less. Because of the ingredient Stevia, they must call this drink a supplement or beverage, but not a soft drink.

This product comes in four flavors: Natural Twist- lemon/ lime, Classic Cola,
Natural Orange and Root Beer

All the flavors taste great, but if you are looking for a true replacement to diet soda, this is not it. Zevia tastes different, because it is different. Having said that, it is refreshing and tastes good! I find to compare this drink to soda, it is less carbonated, less sweet, and has a unique flavor all it’s own. Maybe it is the natural tea and coffee flavors in the cola drink? Maybe it is the zesty lemon taste in the Natural Twist Flavor? There is a slight bitter taste to these drinks. If you are used to drinking brand name soft drinks, you are going to find that this has a distinct taste, but once you give it a chance you are going to find you like it!

Zevia is sold in 12 oz. cans. The company is based out of Seattle. The suggested retail price is $1.91 per can and $5.99 for a six pack. This is quite a bit more money then your average soda drink, especially if you buy generic. So if you are really looking into cutting all artificial sweeteners from your diet, then this drink is for you, because it is a bit costly. I think I would just try to lower my soda consumption, as I don’t feel this drink is truly a “diet soda substitute”, but rather another type of drink altogether.

Product Review: Snackmaster Express Food Dehydrator & Jerky Maker

2008-05-13T21:08:37Z

It is Healthy Snack and Food Month at ButYouDontLookSick.com!

As a person with an AI Disease I have to be careful with my diet. Before I got really sick I never thought about what I ate, but now I look for healthier options, not only for me but for my husband. I want to keep him healthy, so he doesn't have to go through this kind of pain.

]]> One of the things that doctors tell you, is to eat more fruits and veggies and sometimes that is hard to do, especially since fruits go bad so quickly and they cam be expensive. One day my husband got the idea that he wanted to try and make some homemade beef jerky, so we purchased a dehydrator. Let me just say that not only does it provide a way to keep my fruits longer, but it is so much FUN and so easy to use.

I dry strawberries and peaches for snacking or my cereal, or to add to granola mix or yogurt. It makes an easy, fun way to get more fruits into my daily intake. You can also take applesauce and make homemade fruit roll ups, that my niece absolutely loves. My husband loves to dry bananas to snack on and let me just say that is an enormous feat, since until this point he wouldn't touch a banana with a ten foot pole.

It does make great homemade beef jerky and that way you know what is going into it. You just slice the beef ( we use a roast ) to the consistency you like and add whatever spices you enjoy and in a few hours you have beef jerky.

You can also use it to dry herbs, so you have an alternative to bottled ones or flowers for scrap-booking, etc.

It is easy on us "spoonies," gives us a healthy snack alternative and if it gives a spouse or a child a chance to experience a new way to eat an old favorite, all the better.

I purchased mine at Walmart or they can be purchased here:

Product Review: Healthy Choices with Luna and Clif brand Nutrition Bars

2008-05-13T04:17:37Z

We are focusing on healthy foods and snacks for the month of May!

I am a picky eater at times, and I am always on the go. Eating healthy is hard but Luna Bars and Clif bars have made it easier. Now I have no excuses not to take better care of myself. I have tried numerous nutrition bars, meal replacement bars and granola snack bars, and I found them either not satisfying, not appetizing or they left a bad after-taste in my mouth. I have tried various flavors of both the Luna bar and the Clif bar and I was pleasantly surprised at how good they all taste.

]]> Clif bars were named after the company owner's father, Clifford. The owner lived a very active lifestyle and was eating "other" brands of athletically geared protein/energy bars and found them bad tasting. He started making Clif bars in his mother's kitchen. Clif bars have more of a soft, chewy texture, and the Luna bars have more of a crunch. Clif bars are all natural, made with certified organic ingredients. Clif bars are geared for athletes and active people, perfect before working out, or moving about.

Some of the new Luna bar flavors taste so delicious and actually decadent, that they could pass for a candy bar! With dessert themed new flavors like; Caramel Nut Brownie, Iced Oatmeal Raisin, Peanut Butter Cookie and Cookies ‘n Cream Delight, these are not your ordinary nutrition bars. These new flavors are delicious while still bringing you 100% natural whole nutrition, designed specifically for women, with 23 vitamins and minerals that we need; such as calcium, folic acid, iron and antioxidants like vitamins A, C & E. Give the new flavors a try and remember to treat yourself! As a woman, I loved the taste but I also loved the packaging and concept behind Luna bars. Each Luna bar has a "dedication" from a real shopper to an important women in her life. They are always fun to read. I also like that it says right on the package- "we believe that food feeds our souls, lifts our spirits
nourishes and sustains us." As someone dealing with a chronic illness this reminded me how important it is to take better care of myself, especially with things I can control like what I eat. So now when I am not so hungry, or don't have the time or energy to cook something, I eat a Luna bar. I leave one in my pocketbook in case I am stuck somewhere. I really love them and have given many to friends to try, when they don't believe when I say how good they taste! Caramel Nut Brownie is my personal favorite.

1% of the companies net sales is donated to charitable causes both local and global.

I found Clif Bars and Luna Bars at national chain stores like Target, GNC
and Trader Joe's. To find out more about Clif Bars and Luna Bars, or to find a store near you that sells them check out: www.clifbar.com

A Mother's View

2008-05-10T15:51:50Z

My daughter Christine has had Lupus, with the accompanying vast array of symptoms, since she was 15 years old. During college, in her attempt to explain her illness, she wrote about Lupus and its debilitating effect on her energy, by a comparison to waking up each day with a limited amount of "spoons".

]]> Having spoons has always been an inside joke in our family. If Christine was having a particularly bad day, she might call me and say, “Mom, I have no spoons left today." I often sign my cards to her-"May you always have spoons."

Christine has tried to educate our family, friends and even total strangers with her analogy. Well this is a view from the other side of the spoon, so to speak. Having a child means worrying your whole life about their happiness. Having a child with a chronic illness means worrying about grades, dating and makeup; but also about pain, medical tests and future prognosis. Somehow you survive.

Christine is often asked about what it is like to have Lupus. You see, she doesn't look sick, so she is a curiosity to some, an enigma to others. Few people ask me what it's like to have a child with Lupus, and I think it's because they already know- it's every parent's worst fear. No parent wants to be healthier than their child.

Christine lives with chronic pain and fatigue and a constant pendulum swing of good days and bad. Being her mom means struggling not to be so effected by them, especially the bad ones. I am not so good at this. I have often found myself overwhelmed and in bed crying, after seeing Christine in a flare-up, or hearing that down, resigned tone in her voice. It's a roller coaster ride I would prefer not to be on. But then there are her good days, and when Christine is having one, she seems to want to pack a lot of life, laughter and joy into 24 hours and luckily for me , I have often been around for the ride. Christine, more than most, realizes the gift of a "good day', a gift most of us take for granted. Hopefully, she has rubbed off on me, and I try to appreciate the little things. I remember once taking Christine home from a doctor's visit and she asked me to stop for a Mc Donald's ice cream flurry. I felt rushed and tried to dissuade her, but she persisted, saying "mom, it's such a little thing and it will make me happy." I don't really know why I remember that so vividly, but I think of it often and I try to cherish the little things that make me happy, like a warm cup of tea, or relaxing in my recliner.

Having a child with Lupus means trying to coax her into experimenting with vitamins, heat, cold, massage therapy, herbs, and physical therapy, whatever. I always think everything will work, while Christine approaches life more cautiously and often thinks nothing will work. She has been known to say I dwell in Pleasantville, but I like it here and plan on staying. Pleasantville is filled with hope and promise. I think in dealing with any chronic illness you always need hope, otherwise you might as well raise your hands up in defeat- the illness has won.

I used to save my sick days at work for my chronic colds, but for the last decade I hoarded them and used them oh so sparingly, just in case I needed them if Christine got sick. I found myself conveniently sick on weekends, as if my body knew I had no time to be ill. In reality, I always felt I could never be as sick or as tired as Christine must feel. That's a difficult one- there's a lot of guilt in feeling better than your child.

Being Christine' mom often means waiting a lot. I've become good at waiting- waiting in doctor's offices, waiting for test results (now that seems like an eternity), waiting in emergency rooms (always in the middle of the night), and even waiting for Christine as her sluggish body tries to catch up with her good intentions. It has meant being flexible, as plans need to be changed the last minute, to accommodate her unpredictable flare-ups. I used to feel that everything was important, but I've learned from Christine that the world doesn't come to a halt if you are a little late or even have to miss something. I remember once trying to get her out the door in order to be on time for a doctor's appointment, and Christine was moving very slowly that morning. I was upset because we would be late, but when we got there we still ended up waiting for almost an hour. A lot of what I worry about never materializes or turns out not to be as important as I thought. I'm still trying to remember that.

As a parent of a chronically ill child, I have encountered those who stop asking about how Christine is doing and how she is feeling, because they feel uncomfortable with any negative response. I thought of lying and saying things are wonderful, but most of the time I just say things are good and bad, which they usually are. There are those that continually ask about Christine, and I appreciate their good wishes, concerns and prayers. My closest friends don't just ask about Christine, they ask about me. It's easy to get lost in the shuffle. It's easy to remind your child to take care of herself, and run yourself into the ground in the process. I have become so much better at being the caregiver than taking care of me. I am finally learning that lesson from Christine too. I have seen how important it is for her to take care of her body and her spirit, and I am thankfully realizing to do the same

On the other side of the spoon it can be depressing. If your loved one is down, it's a constant struggle not to be down too. Beside dealing with your own depression, the parent juggles emotions of fear, disappointment, anger and fatigue; all the while trying to be optimistic, calm and hopeful. I have learned though a lot from being on the other side of the spoon. I (along with Christine) am stronger than I thought. I have discovered many life lessons about patience, acceptance and joy for life I have shared many special memories with Christine, with a greater awareness and appreciation for them. I am so proud of the woman she has become, not because of the Lupus, but despite it. I guess I can say the same for me.

10 Lessons My Daughter Has Taught Me

2008-05-09T23:29:03Z

My daughter Christine is my hero and my inspiration. I know every mother loves her daughter and thinks the world of them, but Chris has taught me so much.

]]> Chris was a vibrant child full of life and loads of energy, which she channeled into dancing. As a student at the High School for Performing Arts in NYC, Chris began to complain of severe joint pain and fatigue. After many doctors’ visits and a multitude of diagnoses, Chris and I went to the Mayo Clinic, where she was told that she indeed had Lupus. When we came home Chris hung up her toe shoes and focused her energies on things that were not as hard on her body- like theater, crafts and writing.

1.Chris taught me that when life hands you lemons, you need to make lemonade.

Chris struggled with the almost daily symptoms of pain, mouth sores, rashes, fatigue, fevers and feelings of general malaise. As she put it, “sometimes I feel like a truck hit me during the night.” Through it all, Chris tried to lead a pretty normal life, finishing high school, attending college at Hofstra University, working, dating and last year marrying a wonderful man. Many times people ask Chris how she feels and I often overhear her say “fine”, yet I know she is in a flare-up of her disease. When I ask her why she isn’t honest, she explains, “Mom except for a few close friends, no one really wants to hear how badly you feel.”

2. Christine has taught me a lesson I still struggle with- don’t whine and don’t complain!

The first time Chris was hospitalized at the age of 17, a young intern actually came in to examine her at 11 o'clock at night. Without missing a beat, Chris said she was tired and the doctor would have to come back tomorrow. I came from a generation, where I was so thankful the doctor was even there.

3. Chris taught me to stand up for myself and not to accept the unacceptable.

Throughout my children's high school and college years, I remember so many of my friends being worried about things that seemed silly to me- like messy rooms or their choice of clothes. Little things seem so unimportant when you deal with a chronic illness. I was worried about Christine's latest dose of steroids and its effect on her body or her upcoming hospital visit. Unfortunately, having a chronic illness, puts things into perspective. Even now, my co-workers will get so riled up about the latest memo or ruling from the higher-ups, but those things just seem to roll off my back.

4. Chris has taught me not to sweat the small stuff- we have bigger things we need to focus our energies on.

I remember once when Chris and I were coming home from a doctor's visit, she asked me to stop at a McDonald's for an ice cream. It had been a long day in the city and I was tired, but Chris persisted and I gave in. We sat in the parking lot, enjoying our ice creams and Chris said "See mom, wasn't this little treat worth our time?"

5. Chris has taught me to enjoy the little things in life, they help to make the not so good times, easier to swallow."

A few years ago Chris began a website called- www.butyoudontlooksick.com. As a family we had always joked about how many people told Chris she looked so well, as if her good looks was an indication of how good she felt. The website became a resource for information, as well as comfort and support to so many people literally around the world. What began as a place for Chris to reach out to other people with Lupus is now a place for anyone with a chronic “hidden” illness. Her readership has grown to thousands and she has touched the lives of many.

6. Chris has taught me that one person can indeed inspire others and make a difference.

This year Chris became pregnant, despite warnings by doctors that it might be hard on her body. It was a VERY difficult pregnancy, marked by 5 long months of nausea, as well as three hospital stays. Despite it all, Olivia Emma arrived almost a month early on July 18, bright eyed and most importantly, healthy. Mommy and daddy are bsolutely in love with their baby girl, as I am too.

7. Christine has taught me to keep reaching for my dreams, despite obstacles in my way.

As a parent it is very hard to watch your child suffer or be in pain and I hope Chris never has to experience that, yet I ‘m sure she will in some way. Just recently, Chris celebrated her 30th birthday and while everyone sang Happy Birthday with big smiles, I couldn’t help but feel a pang of sadness when I realized Chris has now reached
the point of living with Lupus more than half her life. A very sad day in my life was when Chris was about 21, she said, “Mom, I don’t remember what it feels like to be healthy.” …..but I do.

8. Chris has taught me that you can’t go backwards, only forward, one day at a time.

Every year Christine gathers up a huge team of family members and friends to walk in the local Lupus Walk, sponsored by the lupus Alliance in Long Island. Each year she surpasses herself in both team members and monies raised. Chris has always had a great sense of humor. She used to comment that getting a bunch of people with fatigue and pain issues up early in the morning to walk a few miles, might not necessarily be a wise idea. She had once suggested that we all meet at night and instead of a walk, we could see who naps for the longest.

9. Chris taught me to try and find humor in any situation

As a worrying mom, I had always reminded Chris to take care of herself. Especially when she was younger, I probed her about what she ate, if she took her medication and how much rest she got. Old habits die hard, and now that Chris is a grown woman, I have to stop myself from doing that. In recent years the tables have turned and Chris has often checked on me; asking if I've taken my vitamins, reminding me to drink water, etc.

10. Finally, Chris has taught me the importance of taking care of myself.

Hope these lessons help you. Best wishes to all.
Christine's mom

Book Review: Outlander By Diana Gabaldon

2008-05-08T19:25:03Z

Have you ever dreamed of going back in time? Ever wondered what a life in the sixteenth century would be like? How would it feel to lead a double life, one in 1948 and one in 1745?

]]> In this series Diana Gabaldon creates an amazing tapestry of time travel and adventure. In this first book of the series Claire Randall was a nurse during World War II in the British forces. After the war Claire and her husband decide to go on a second honeymoon to Scotland.

Claire’s husband Frank Randall is tracking his ancestry back to the early 1700s. Frank and Claire happen upon a secret pagan ritual with roots dating back as far as the Middle Ages. On the hill stood a circle of stones, which would propel Claire into an adventure during the 1700's in rural Scotland. There she would meet firsthand one of Frank’s most notorious ancestors, in a fight for her life and the ones she loves.

Claire did not however expect to meet and fall in love with a highlander and outlaw Jamie Frasier. Her new life married to Jamie became filled with adventure, fear, war and the deepest love she had ever known. Outlander is filled with romance, magic, adventure and most of all it tells the story of how women, who don’t give up on love can truly make a difference in the lives of many and maybe for all time.

Diana Gabaldon is one of the best story tellers of all time. She has so far 6 books in this series and 7 and 8 to follow. I would recommend this book and the entire series as one of the best reads of all time.

Diana Gabaldon series

Book 1- Outlander
Book 2- Dragonfly in Amber
Book 3- Voyager
Book 4 –Drums of Autumn
Book 5 – The Fiery Cross
Book 6- A Breath of Snow and Ashes
Book 7 – An Echo in the Bone (release date not yet announced)

Book review written by: Stefanie Leale © 2008 butyoudontlooksick.com

Publisher: Delta (August 10, 1998)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0385319959

Note to my Mom - On Mother's Day

2008-05-08T00:44:28Z

I would like to thank my mom for her persistence and her nagging. Persistence for raising a child with chronic complaints. She knew I did not sleep well, she knew I had joint pain and she knew I seemed to catch everything that was going around. She could have thought I was faking it, to get out of school, or exaggerating to get attention. Instead she brought me to the doctors, until the doctors themselves could not deny something was going on, even if they did not know what. Thus my odd blood work was watched bi-annually and I saw more than my fair share of specialists. Many things were ruled out a young age and without this persistence, this understanding, it would have been years before I received the treatment I needed. Just having that one person on my side, fighting for my needs made and makes a great deal of difference. I may have been frustrated with finding a diagnosis, but I never felt like anyone thought I was crazy or a hypochondriac, not with my mom on my side.

]]> I have to thank her for her nagging. She is an informed parent. She did her research on any diagnosis I received; what dietary additions might be helpful and what vitamins, minerals and herbs to try. Encouraging me, persistently, to help me help myself. She was always helping me become an informed patient, who knew what to demand and when it was not enough. While it may drive me nuts trying all these things, I do try. But more so, it is the fact that she tries to help, the best way she can. She cares enough to pay attention to articles she reads, news she hears and books she reads, to pass along to me. She cares enough to buy me something to try out.

She does not make me feel inadequate or that I do not try hard enough to cure myself. Never has she made me feel guilty for not going to school or not working because of my health. Never have I felt like a chronic complainer, when I tell her honestly and truthfully how I feel. Never has she made me feel like I don't do enough. She has always encouraged me to find solutions, or compromises, but never made me feel as though it is some failure on my part if any medical or alternative treatment does not cut it.

So here is to my mom, cause she is on my side.

Essay written by Nikki Albert © 2008 butyoudontlooksick.com

Lupus can’t stop woman’s big heart

2008-05-05T20:52:53Z

Published in the NY Valley Stream Herald, May 1-7, 2008 Author: Andrew Hackmack

Frank, Christine and Olivia Emma Donato at the Lupus Gala Brunch

]]> For half of her life, Christine Donato has been living with Lupus. Not only has she accepted the limitations it poses, but she has worked to make a better life for all those living with the disease. This past Sunday, she was honored along with family members for all the time they have given to the Lupus Alliance of America. The Long Island-Queens affiliate each year recognizes those who have given to the organization in a significant way.

Donato, a former Valley Stream resident who now lives in Massapequa, was first diagnosed with the disease when she was 15. Lupus is a chronic, autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of various parts
of the body including skin, joints, blood and kidneys. Right now, there is no cure for the disease but it is treatable.

It took her a long time to be diagnosed with Lupus because the symptoms mimic those of other diseases, Donato said. In the 15 years she has knowingly lived with the disease, she has had her good days and her bad days. “It’s very much a rollercoaster ride,” she said, “because you really don’t know what the future holds.” She explained that most people diagnosed with Lupus are women in the prime of their life. Many find out they have the disease just as they are starting a career or a family. For Donato, she had to leave her job as a marketing executive.

While her life hasn’t followed the path she expected, Donato is happy. Giving up a career gave Donato time to help others who suffer from the same affliction. Her service to the Lupus Alliance is endless. “I easily spend a few hours a week volunteering for them,” she said. “It doesn’t feel like work because it’s a passion for me. This is
something I really believe in.” She trained for nearly eight weeks to become a phone counselor, speaking with other women who suffer from Lupus. Jo Ann Quinn, executive director of the Long Island-Queens affiliate of the Lupus
Alliance, said Donato is a comforting voice for others. “She’s really very good at it,” Quinn said. “She relates well to everyone she speaks to.”

Every year Donato and her family members participate in a walk to raise money for the alliance. It was 15 years ago she and her mother walked for the first time, raising $200, “which we thought was a lot,” Donato said. This year she led a team of 34 family members and friends, raising nearly $10,000. Afterwards, her mother Janet Miserandino hosted a small party at her Valley Stream home to thank those who participated and celebrate another year her daughter was able to walk.

Donato also publishes an online newsletter for Lupus patients, ButYouDon’tLookSick.com. She started writing nearly four years ago with an essay titled “The Spoon Theory” that was published in 40 medical newsletters.
Today, her site has 4,000 readers from all over the world and is updated daily. Donato said she has some volunteer contributors but writes about 80 percent of the material herself. “I can give a voice to so many who don’t have a voice,” she said.

Christine Donato with fellow honoree Greg T from Z100 Radio

Last July, Donato had her first “miracle” when her daughter was born. She was told sbhe wasn’t able to have kids, so the news came as quite a surprise. She was also hospitalized four times during the pregnancy. But now she has a happy and healthy baby girl. The birth of her daughter has given her renewed enthusiasm for her
work with the Lupus Alliance. There have been no medical advances in the treatment of Lupus in 40 years, Donato said, so she hopes with enough funding and research there will be progress in the future. “I don’t want my daughter to have to take care of me,” she said.

Quinn said money raised by the Lupus Alliance goes to support research, education and individual families. She said the organization holds four education days each year, hosts numerous support groups and counseling sessions, and alerts patients to new developments in Lupus research. They also give out yearly grants to
those who need financial help such as paying rent, a car repair or medical bills. The organization holds numerous kid programs each year for children who are either suffering from Lupus or have a family member with the
disease. Quinn said simply the goal of the Lupus Alliance is to make life better for people with the disease until there is a cure. She said Donato’s award is well-deserved. “Christine has been a delight to work with all these years,” Quinn said. “She’s very dedicated.”Not only is she committed to the cause, Quinn explained, but Donato
goes about her efforts with a smile on her face. “Lupus should be this happy,” Quinn said.

Miserandino, who volunteers along with her husband and son, said Sunday’s award ceremony was very special for all of them. “It was a wonderful day,” she said. Donato said the award is nice recognition for her efforts but it’s
not why she and her family members contribute so much time and energy to the Lupus Alliance. “It’s become a really big part of our lives trying to help others,” she said. “You volunteer and you do things because you want to.”

Product Review: The Baby Sharmooz Baby Satin Headrest

2008-05-02T02:19:50Z

After dealing with my own hair loss, due to the medications I am on for Lupus, I am extra sensitive to any hair issues. When I saw my baby daughter with bald spots from lying in her crib on her back, I was upset. Even though she did not know the difference, I noticed and strangers and family members noticed as well. I was looking for something that would help, and I found "The Baby Sharmooz". As always, I love supporting other work at home moms, so when I learned that this was a mom-invented product I was thrilled.

]]> Infant balding is caused when babies lie on their backs several hours a day; usually on cotton sheets, or on the coverings for swings, carriers and car seats. Cotton actually grips and tugs at the individual strands of your
baby's delicate tresses causing breakage.

The Baby Sharmooz is a handmade satin headrest. It is so pretty and looks fancy. When you first look at the product it resembles a flat pillow, but it is a lustrous 100% textured satin headrest that has a non-slip backing.
It minimizes shifting of the headrest and grips to any fabric surface with the weight of your baby. Why didn't I think of this idea? When I was losing my hair it was suggested that I sleep on silk bedding, so of course this would
work for my child.

This patented design resembles a pillow, but is really a headrest thus posing no suffocation hazard. It is created to fit perfectly into an infant’s environment and activities. The Baby Sharmooz is great to use in car seats, bouncy seats, swings and more. It is not intended for use in the crib. Baby should not have any type of blanket or pillow in the crib for the first year or so.

The website has pillow cases, blankets, gift baskets, monogramming and more. You can purchase yours at: http://sharmooz.com

For more inform ation about the "Back to Sleep" Campaign to stop SIDS:
www.nichd.nih.gov/sids/

Product Review: The Ped Egg

2008-05-02T02:11:20Z

After watching me examine, and pass up, the Ped Egg in a number of stores, my boyfriend came home from the store last week with one just for me. After freeing it from its packaging, I set to work on my rough tootsies.

]]> I am on my feet about four hours a day for work, so they take a bit of a beating. No matter how much lotion I use, or how many pumices and foot files I've tired, they just don't work well. Either they don't really smooth my feet, or they are so rough as to be painful. My fibro makes my feet unusually sensitive, so this also keeps me from getting a professional pedicure.

However, in the Ped Egg, I seem to have found the answer!

This little dandy is ergonomically designed, so it's easy to grip, even when my hands are weak or sore. It's designed to catch the 'shavings' so the ickiness isn't all over my floor and it really works! My feet are the smoothest they've been in...forever. And it is truly gentle. You don't have to 'grind' the callouses off. Instead, you rub the Egg on your feet in a gentle back-n-forth motion. After using the 'blade' side to get your callouses tamed, you can switch to the 'finishing' pad (a little piece of fine-grit sandpaper, that you stick to the lid) and smooth out the last of
the roughness.

My sensitive feet weren't bothered in the least by all of this. Now my heels and toes are ready for my sandals!
Easy on the feet, easy on the hands, and also, at just $10, easy on the wallet! Mine was purchased at Wal-Mart, but I've seen them at Walgreens, Target, and Bed Bath and Beyond. If you shop through the link below at Amazon.com you help support this site!

Product Review: bitsybowsandtinsyties.com no slip hair bows for little girls

2008-05-01T02:27:35Z

Bitsy Bows & Tinsy Ties is a family owned business. As usual, I love to shop at and help promote work at home moms. Tiffani is the owner, and she makes every product with great care. I love handmade items and I wish I could make bows that match every one of my little girl's outfits, but with arthritis in my hands, it would be close to
impossible for me to make tiny bows. If you are like me and are limited because of your disability, consider shopping with her. You can still get quality handmade items, even if you can not make them yourself!

]]> All of her products are made with high quality materials, including beautiful grosgrain ribbon. All of the hair bow styles are available on a pinch clip or ponytail elastic. All the pinch clips are lined with a no slip pad, this allows the bow to stay secure in any amount of hair. This is especially good for babies with fine hair, or even little girls with thin or fine hair. My niece does not have thin hair, but she pulls out bows when they are placed in her hair. Now with these bows, she will not have to worry about pulling hair out with the bow.

When you are looking for a pretty baby shower gift, or when shopping for your own children, check out Tiffani at bitsybowsandtinsyties.com

Shop here:
http://www.bitsybowsandtinsyties.com/

Product Review: Momworks Inc. Attachable Photo Albums

2008-05-01T02:23:20Z

These attachable photo books are the perfect gift for anyone with a child. I love the bright ribbon that attaches to the baby's highchair or car seat. I know first hand that baby's like to throw things, or drop them. So this added feature was proof that this product was invented by a mom!

]]> You can purchase the books in one of three different themes/ subjects. The first is called My Family. This version also comes in Spanish which is perfect for families who speak Spanish, but also for those of us who want to teach our children a different language. Looking at family photos has always been a favorite children's activity. This book allows parents to place six memorable photos of family members in an educational book. A sticker page has been placed in the back of the book to customize the photo album to each family. The picture slot is a perfect easy size for small wallet photos. I think this is a great way to teach your child who the members of their family are, especially if you live far away from certain relatives and do not see them often.

The next book in the series is called " My Friends". This is ideal for parents belonging to play groups and Mommy & Me classes. I also think this would be a great book or gift for a child entering pre-school or kindergarten. They can learn the names of some of the children in their class.

The last book is called "My Birthday Party". This is a great gift for any child's birthday. It can serve as a lifelong keepsake that will have such great pictures and memories of that special day.

I really liked these high quality books. They are thick and sturdy and stood up to my teething daughter. The ribbon that attaches this book to her chair is genius and the low price of $7.99 makes this an affordable, quality gift for anyone to give!

Get yours at: http://www.momworks.net/

Article written by Christine Miserandino, © 2008 butyoudontlooksick.com

We All Have Lupus. - My Speech from The Lupus Gala Brunch

2008-04-29T20:30:09Z

The following speech was given by Christine Miserandino - Donato at the Lupus Gala Brunch given by the Lupus Alliance of Long Island/ Queens. It is titled "We All Have Lupus"

]]> Thank you to the Lupus Alliance and the Board of Directors for this honor. I speak for myself and my family, when I say that volunteering for the Alliance has given more back to us, than we have given. It means so much to help lupus patients and their families.

You might be wondering why my whole family is being honored. I am the one who has lupus! It is easy to think that I am the one who is in pain, taking medicine, or scared about her health or her future….. But before I can explain why this honor is so very special to all of us, I need to start at the beginning.

I can remember it like it was yesterday. I went all the way to the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota with hope and excitement. You would think I would be scared, but I was going there determined to prove all the doctors I had seen were wrong. I had the flu…. or growing pains. After a long week of painful tests and scary procedures, the specialists did prove all my doctors wrong. It wasn’t any of the 15 or so confusing diagnosis that other doctors gave -
it was lupus. I remember hearing those words, not even really knowing what lupus was, but somehow knowing it wasn’t good. My mother held my hand, and we both left the doctors office in shock. We barely spoke, and for those of you who know my mom and me, that is very unusual. We went back to the hotel and as I went into the shower, my mother called my dad to give him the news. She didn’t know that I was listening, but I heard her say the words
that I would soon bug her about for years to come. She said in a cracking and teary voice “We have Lupus.”

Fast forward a few years to a feisty, bold teenager sitting in yet another hospital. The rheumatologist came in and asked me what brought me there. Before I could get my answer out, my mother answered… “We have Lupus.” After the doctor left, my mom and I had a silly fight because I wanted to know when “she got lupus”. Was it contagious? I said I was the one laying there, not her. As normal teenagers do, I was trying to claim independence, and “become an adult”. If I was stuck with this disease, at least I could say it was “mine”. My mother didn’t fight, she knew I was just upset, but she said quite softly and with confidence… "You will understand when you are a mother."

This brings us to this past April, almost exactly a year ago today. I was in the hospital for over two weeks. I was almost six months pregnant and I trying desperately to keep my baby girl healthy, and inside my belly for a little bit longer. I found myself praying for this baby to be the one good thing in my life that lupus didn’t take away or ruin. I was quite the popular attraction, as lines of doctors, students, and nurses all wanted to see the “pregnant lupus patient”. My husband held my hand and kept telling me everything would be okay. As the neonatal specialist came in to check on my baby, he asked me what was wrong, what brought me into the hospital. Without skipping a beat, I put my hand on my stomach and quickly answered, “We have lupus”. I guess that is the moment I became a mom, because now I can finally say that I understand. Lupus effects everyone that loves you.

When my friends still support me and still cherish our friendship, even when I am too tired to go out and party, when I cancel plans, or when I am in too much pain to answer the phone …. They have lupus too.

When my new in laws, come to help take care of our baby, and help us around the house. When they fill our fridge with food, or run errands, or when they worry… I know they love me and they have lupus too.

When my extended family and friends send emails or cards of encouragement. When they call on a rainy day just to check that I am ok, or pass along an article about a new lupus treatment… they have lupus too.

All these years that my family has loved and supported me, they have been affected by lupus. When I wanted to be the team that raised the most money for the lupus walk, my family formed a team and stomped the pavement for
donations. I decided I wanted to help people with lupus. I was passionate about helping others who are living with lupus lead better lives. My brother bought me my website- butyoudontlooksick.com to encourage me to write and
reach out to others with lupus. My father comes every morning to take care of me, and my baby girl Olivia. My family supports anything I want to do and they make it their passion too. My family has lupus too.

Lastly, when my best friend, my husband, took those marriage vows, I guess he really listened when we said “in sickness and in health;” because he is a shining example of a caregiver. He loves me not despite or because of my
lupus…. but just because he does. He reminds me every day of the person I am. He takes care of me better than any doctor ever could, and sometimes I think he knows more. In the end- I guess he has lupus too.

I would like to use this moment to thank everyone who has, and continues to support me in my life with lupus. Although the Lupus Alliance has chosen to honor me, I believe this honor is really for everyone loving someone with
lupus. Yes, this has been my battle, my war with lupus… but luckily I have had an army to fight with me. We all have had lupus.
Please join me in a round of applause to thank and acknowledge my family and friends.

Thank you.

Thank you to the friends/ supporters of the Lupus Gala Brunch!

2008-04-28T22:04:57Z

Thank you to the friends of Christine and ButYouDontLookSick.com for donating items for the fundraising raffle at the Lupus Gala Brunch this past weekend. Your generosity helped make the event a huge success! Please support the following companies, and if you do shop from them, please tell them that ButYouDontLookSick.com sent you!

]]> Cheryl Kaye Tardif, Author
beadsandbaublesny.com jewelry
sharmooz.com baby bedding
Season tickets from Rockaway Theatre Company
foot warmers from Grabbers.com
www.paintedlaydies.com and www.mamabags.com
Anne from Shaklee Cleaning Supplies
perfectcandlesonline.com
The Body Shop at Home
MyPreciousKid.com
Laurenshope.com medical ID bracelets
ShadyLadyProducts.com Sun Protection Products
L’Bri Pure n’ Natural beauty products
Amanda from Seriesse International
Olive Kid's designer bedding

THANK YOU!