Access to Healthy Water

This week I chose the public health topic of access to healthy water.  This recently became very near and dear to my heart.  Many of you may, or may not, have heard about the recent chemical leak into the Kanawha (Elk) River that occurred in Charleston, West Virginia. (This happens to be my hometown.)  For about 7 days, 9 counties of WV were without clean and usable water.  Residents were advised to not shower, drink, or cook with the tap water.  Water stations were set up and FEMA arrived to help supply bottled (fresh) water to those living in the affected areas.  Recently, they lifted the ban for some areas and put out instructions for the flushing of the current tap water.  About a day later, they issued a warning to pregnant women that the water was unsafe for drinking, showering, etc.  The importance of safe water for pregnant women is obviously very important, as if the importance of safe and drinkable, usable water for all people.

This experience has affected so many people I know with and without children and families.  It has brought attention to the worldwide issue that many, especially those in 3rd world countries, live their lives every day without access to clean water.  This leads to death and illness for many, especially children whose immune system is not strong enough to fight off serious bacterial infections.  This has inspired me to learn and study about the crisis worldwide and find a way to help.  Whether I make a trip to help out physically or donate resources, I will find a way to make a difference in a persons' life.  This is something that will not get better unless those with the resources and knowledge reach out and help!



The link to an article in the local paper:
http://www.wvgazette.com/News/201401160034

The link to an article on Yahoo comparing this crisis to the worldwide crisis:
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/many-worldwide-dont-access-clean-130336248.html
 

Birthing Experiences

   The closest and most personal birthing experience I have to share is that of my dear friend Danielle's. I threw a baby shower for her and due to the fact that the child's father wasn't in the picture, I took on a role to provide support and comfort during her pregnancy.  Finally, the day had arrived!  We did not know we would be waiting in the hospital for close to 22 hours waiting for Maliyah to arrive.  Tears of joy streamed down my face the first time I saw Danielle hold her daughter.  It is such a personal and intimate moment, something I do not know if I was fully aware of prior to this experience.  My hope is for my own birthing experience to be a happy and healthy one.  

    It was interesting to learn the differences of the birthing experience in New Zealand.  For instance, the most common care provider is a midwife.  Although they are not uncommon in the United States they are also not the most common care provider.  There are different levels of care facilities as well, primary, secondary, and tertiary.  Although there are only six tertiary facilities in New Zealand, they are also the least needed.  These facilities are for women who experience complex issues during pregnancy and need access to multidisciplinary specialists.  The commonalities and differences from country to country and region to region are definitely an interesting area to learn about.

About Me

I recently began studying to complete my Early Childhood Education master's degree program.  One of the many interesting aspects of getting an degree online has been creating a blog.  I have no experience with blogging and am still learning and finding my way.  I hope to share my journey with you all and give you a peek into my exciting educational experience!