A tetanus shot??
I have been working very hard to get prepared for this expedition - mentally and physically. As mentioned in the last entry, it is necessary for me to plan for my classroom, the expedition and my home. Last week, my researcher Dr. Ashjian, sent a very comprehensive email with important information regarding the expedition. This included the US Coast Guard Medical Form. On the form, I was asked numerous questions about medical conditions and symptoms. Of course, I am as "healthy as a horse" with no issues! HOWEVER - they asked for my immunization record. I am a grown adult and the last time I even thought about my "shot record" was when I was in 7th grade and had to get an MMR booster. Needless to say, I have NO idea where those records are. Dr. Ashjian said "No problem...just be sure your tetanus shot is up to date". A tetanus shot???
According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, tetanus is an infection of the nervous system with the potentially deadly bacteria Clostridium tetani. It is a serious infection that can cause death if left untreated. The bacteria can enter your body through a scratch or puncture wound. So...when is the last time I had a tetanus shot?? As I mentioned, I do not have my immunization records, but a tetanus shot only protects you from a puncture wound for 5 years and protects from scratches for 10 years. Since I can not remember the last time I had a tetanus shot, it was off to the County Health Department for me!
Fresh Tetanus shot, immunizations up to date...ready to go!
Next step, begin packing! Dr. Ashjian provided me with a list of items I should pack. Obviously, there will be cold weather gear that will be on-loan to me, but I needed to locate as much of my winter clothing as possible.
Our 2011 Homecoming game gave me the perfect opportunity to test out my NEW Carhart waterproof work pants and flannel lined jeans. Thank you Carhart for providing these to me! They worked perfectly. I have never been to a football game when the weather was so bad. It rained and hailed and rained and rained and rained! I stayed toasty warm and dry in my Carhart gear! Nice trial run!
Chantelle trying out her new Carhart winter gear at the Graham High School homecoming game!
Since we are one month from departure, things will really begin to happen! I will post as frequently as I can! Please stay tuned to this journal as prepare to embark on this very exciting expedition! Until then…
“Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” Mohandas Gandhi