Category Archives: information

Winter Maintenance – Don’t Let Your Battery Leave You Out in the Cold

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With cold weather right around the corner, Autumn is the best time to schedule a battery test.

Old Man Winter can be tough on any vehicle, but the battery, specifically, takes a beating. Your vehicle’s battery loses 33 percent of its power when the temperature dips below freezing, and over 50 percent of its power when the temperature falls below zero.

Expert Advice on Winterizing Your Battery

  • Seek Professional Help—for your batteries, that is. These aren’t your typical AA batteries, so it’s important to have us check the battery and electrical system. Sometimes the naked eye cannot detect the presence of corrosion because it is hidden under the metal between the connection and the post.
  • Protect Your Battery from Mr. Freeze. The cold weather can dramatically reduce a person’s energy level and it can do the same to a battery’s available starting power. It’s a good idea to have your car’s starting and charging system tested every six months.
  • Charge It. Use a battery charger to maintain charge levels and keep the battery in good condition. A fully charged battery will not freeze until -76°F; however, a fully discharged battery could start to freeze at 32°F.
  • Small Maintenance Chores are Necessary. Preparing your car for the winter doesn’t end with the battery itself. You need to inspect your battery cables, posts, and fasteners. Make sure your cables are in good shape and are secured firmly to the battery.

Winterization Checklist
To maximize protection against cold-weather conditions, now’s the time to make sure you not only winterize your battery, but your vehicle too.

We recommend all vehicle owners to check the following items for a safe winter:

  • Replace worn windshield wipers every 6 months.
  • Refill washer fluid often. Winterize with a 50/50 mix of washer fluid and water.
  • Make sure the heater and defroster are in good working condition.
  • Inspect all bulbs and lights for proper operation.
  • Check condition of tires, including the spare.
  • Measure your tire air pressure regularly.
  • Change oil every 3,000 miles.
  • Examine exhaust system for leaks.
  • Flush and refill cooling system with a 50/50 mixture.
  • Check drive belts, clamps and hoses.

Everyone should carry emergency gear such as gloves, boots, tire chains, battery booster pack, cell phone, blankets, flares, flashlight and some high-energy, non-perishable snacks.

Caregiver Support

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Whether you are caring for the elderly or a loved one with a disAbility, most every caregiver should surround their life with resources and relief.

These resources will not only keep you feeling refreshed and renewed, but they’ll help you connect with others, who may have, or be currently experiencing similar lifestyles. In recognizing the different support options available, you’ll find yourself actively combating the chances of caregiver burnout and achieving the best quality care possible for your loved one.

Support is within reach. You just have to know where to look.

Caregiver Support Groups
You may be surprised to learn that a quick internet search can connect you with entire communities of caregivers. Sure, there are plenty of self-help articles and tips and tricks out there, but the value of an honest forum and communal support goes miles.

Find a caregiver forum in your state or region and consider the benefits of sounding off with other members. Bounce ideas and successes off of one another. Share your wisdom and experiences. Ask questions and seek answers.

Forums:

  • provide perspective
  • highlight industry products
  • connect like-minded individuals
  • create a canvas for ongoing conversation
  • offer new tips and tricks
  • and so much more

A forum is a great foundation to replenish your optimism and hope as a caregiver. You may even turn online connections into real life friendships and accountability. And what better way to grow as a caregiver than to do it in the company and strength of a community of caregivers?

Financial Aid
Many caregivers spend upwards of 20 hours per week giving care. It’s no wonder finances and employment opportunities can sometimes be difficult to balance. Don’t count yourself out, though.

Seek education on grants and financial aid. There are many benefits for caregivers such as mobility vehicle loans and income tax return incentives. A little homework can save you money in the long run. Getting ahead on your finances can provide tremendous relief.

Fitness
Explore activities you can experience with your loved one. From adaptive sports to a traditional walk around the block, exercise is a great way to proactively deal with stress and clear the mind.

To take it one step further, consider joining a league in your area. If you’ve become a member of an online forum, ask around about local gatherings and activities or take initiative to start one on your own. The positivity and energy can be contagious for all involved.

Family and Friends
Don’t go it alone. The strongest caregivers know when it’s time to ask for help.

It’s healthy to reach out to those you trust and your family and friends can be awesome support groups. Invite them to step up and come beside you as you provide care for your loved ones and don’t be afraid to walk them through a day in your life. The more they know about your situation and your needs the better they’ll be able to assist in the journey of you and your loved one.

Managing your own stress can make the ultimate difference in the life of the loved one you care for. In caring for you, you’re caring for them.

What is Trisomy 9

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The name “Trisomy” means three (“tri”) copies of a chromosome (“somy”). Unlike most individuals, people that have any form of Trisomy are born with a whole or partial third copy of a chromosome, instead of the expected two. For example, a child that has a third copy of the number 21th chromosome, rather then just the pair, have a common disorder called Down’s Syndrome. When the 18th chromosome has been affected, then that better known as Edward’s Syndrome, and again the 13th is Patau’s Syndrome. Trisomy 9 refers to the number 9th chromosome being affected, though due to being so rare it has not yet been given another name.

Duplication resulting in Trisomy 9p

A duplication is an extra copy of a portion of a chromosome. In this case, the extra portion is from chromosome 9. This may also be referred to as a partial Trisomy 9 since what is extra is part of chromosome 9. The extra chromosome 9 material can be present in the middle of one of the arms of chromosome 9 or may be attached to the end of another whole copy of chromosome 9. Some individuals are diagnosed with Trisomy 9p which is where the chromosomes have duplicated the “p” arm, or Trisomy 9q where the “q” arm has been affected.

Mosaic Trisomy 9

The term “mosaic” means that there is a mixture of cell types among the analysed cells. An individual with mosaic Trisomy 9 has some cells with an extra copy of Chromosome 9. Others can also have Mosaic 9 which is where the same thing applies though only with the expected number of chromosomes (two copies of chromosome 9)

Translocation resulting in Trisomy 9p

 Translocations (t) are rearrangements of chromosome material that involve two or more chromosomes. Translocations arise when two chromosomes “break” and switch material. Often, when a translocation arises in a parent it is “balanced”. This means that there is no apparent loss or gain of chromosome material. All the chromosome material that should be there is usually present but is rearranged.