PART ONE
More of 2017’s most noteworthy news stories:
2017 started with Jersey Shore Polar Plunges: Last January, thousands gathered to take a VERY quick dip in the ocean. But it was for the purpose of raising funds for the New Jersey Special Olympics, so they certainly can’t be accused of being cold-hearted. This year’s plunges will held on January 13 in Wildwood and February 24 in Seaside Heights. Fortunately, it’s possible to “Be Bold, Be Cold” while remaining warm and dry — you can make a general donation here and here.
On the opioid war front, a study indicates that a new strain of hepatitis C spreading through suburban New Jersey drug users. It’s especially dangerous because it can lie dormant for years — which, of course, also means that it’s easy to spread even though HIV rates are dropping. Meanwhile, the police department in Madison bragged of collecting more than ton of expired prescription drugs through their disposal program — a ton of drugs whose ingredients won’t be getting into the water supply.
End-of-life issues are trying enough without the financial as well as emotional burden. But with the help of a $5 million dollar state government grant, Saddle River’s Villa Marie Clare residential hospice center is setting a standard that is as compassionate and comprehensive as it is cost-effective. It gives a free home not only to those with just days or weeks to live, but their loved ones, too!
This year, we’ll be extra proud to join Julie Flygare and her Project Sleep-In efforts to raise awareness about sleep health. She’s set up a scholarship fund for students with sleep disorders such as narcolepsy, funding it by running marathons. For the class of 2017, a pair of New Jerseyites made the cut!
Thanks to the volunteers with Operation Beachhead, a group of wounded veterans and others with special needs were transported to Old Bridge and got to swap their wheelchairs for modified sleds and play a few rounds of ice hockey. While one skater found it “exhilarating,” another warned that the military spirit still prevailed and things could get competitive: “We don’t play!”
When three local infants died in their sleep within 48 hours, the acting Essex County Prosecutor enlisted the help of the American Academy of Pediatrics to alert parents that bedding for newborns should not contain obstructions — human or otherwise. In happier news, New Jersey has become to first state to begin sending hew mothers home with “Baby Boxes“– bassinet-sized laminated cardboard boxes outfitted with a mattress and a fitted sheet — along with instructions on safe sleeping techniques. They can also be ordered online.
As we begin our fifth year, please remember that we’re here to report YOUR New Jersey health, medical, fitness and nutrition news. Just click the blue box in the sidebar to get your news and events publicized!