Day 20: Be Your Own Health Advocate

Medical mistakes account for 100,000 deaths a year. I read this a couple of years ago and was astounded by such statistics. For the first time I heard it revealed on television by America’s favorite doctor; Dr. Oz on Oprah.

We need doctors and good doctors are a gift, saving lives every day. However, there are certain cases where we need to be our own health advocate. Too many people take the doctor’s diagnosis as a final word without any second opinions or doing their own research.

My health journey began 8 years ago when my youngest son was having asthma symptoms, an illness that runs in my family. Asthma affects 14 million children a year.

After a couple of trips to the Emergency Room, our pediatrician suggested that he received a drug that could help with preventing asthma. While I was grateful for the option, after reading a list of more than 10 different side effects, I was not at peace with having him rely on drugs if there were some things that I could do naturally to prevent these asthma triggers.

I’m in awe of constant medical advances, but I believe that certain illnesses can be reduced by preventative care. I began researching ways to prevent asthma from triggering. I spent quite a bit of time online researching and learning about asthma as well as found natural health books that were helpful. I discovered that there are certain things that can trigger asthma and some things that can help with prevention.

Immediately, I removed the things that were potential triggers of asthma (ei: household chemicals, dust), and added things that would help prevent asthma attacks. For ei; something as simple as increasing water helps to improve the airways.

Diet choices are a large factor in preventing a lot of common ailments. Thank God for alternative options. Being your own health advocate may not only save your life from medical mistakes, but can also prevent you from having to rely on drugs with harmful side effects. My son is living healthier and happier; he has not had an asthma attack or a visit to the Emergency Room in years!

Please Note: I do not recommend ignoring medical treatment. That is not what this message is about; it’s about options and what you feel is best for your situation. As I always recommend, please consult with your physician or health expert before making any changes to your health.

Live Healthier & Happier,