POLIO SURVIVORS SUPPORT GROUP OF WNY-NEWSLETTER DECEMBER 1996
In keeping with the holiday tradition of past years, we will
have our annual party on Wednesday, December 18, 7:15p.m. at
St. Stephen's-Bethlehem United Church of Christ on Wehrle, 
near Union. Refreshments will be provided by us, but if you
would like to bring some treats to pass around, they will be
welcome. The agenda includes a brief business meeting, a time  
for sharing, and a review and update of our programs for 1997.
This will be an opportunity to get acquainted with new members
and catch up on the latest medical developments as well as
enjoy a good time together,
Our vice-president, Barbara Woodworth, has set up an exciting
schedule of speakers for 1997, so go through your calendar
and circle the third Wednesday of each month to remind you
that you have a special date that evening. Sometimes the
newsletter is late or doesn't get out at all, but remember,
NO MATTER WHAT, we still have our meeting on the third Wed.
every month except July and August. If you have any concern
about a meeting or the scheduled program, feel free to call
Dave Hamilton at 875-7663.

November's speaker was Jennifer Weir from the Center for
Assistive Technology at the University of Buffalooo. It was
a very informative and interesting session that included
hands-on experience with a wide range of assistive devices.
Many were low-tech, low cost items that can be purchased at
general merchandise and discount stores...

This newsletter is always looking for articles of interest
to its readers, so if you have something you would like to
say, or some info you would like to share, please send it to
us. 
SCHEDULE OF SPEAKERS FOR 1997
January 15. Jerry Brownrout will discuss the ancient art of
magnetic therapy. Aided by modern science and technology,
this technique nay provide an alternative solution to pain
medication and surgery for pain relief.
February 19 or May 21. The American Lung Association will
present a program concerning respiratory problems and recom-
mendations for dealing with such problems, emphasizing its
relevance in post polio situations.
March 19. Nutrition Consultant Pamela Gay will discuss the 
relationship between pain, stress and nutrition. She will
discuss how pain may be reduced by reducing inner stress.
April 16. The Himalayan Institute of Buffalo's Mary Gail
Sovik, an expert in the field of meditation and a frequent 
speaker on various holistic means, will discuss various 
ways to fight fatigue.
May 21 or February 19. An evening dedicated to sharing of
individual concern about, experiences with, post polio
problems and discussing the latest research.
June 18. Discussion and demonstration of massage and of
gentle stretching.

Out speakers are dedicated professionals who have offered
to give us their time and expertise without charge. We
can show our appreciation with our strong attendance, and 
the range of subjects should suggest ideas useful to all
of us.

We are reminded again in reviewing other polio support
group newsletters of the risks of anesthetics for surgery
as it relates to polio survivors. We had an excellent
speaker a couple of years ago who discussed this vital
subject. The bottom line is that if you require surgery.
make it your business to look up the anesthesiologist and
make sure he understands that you are a polio survivor
and that breathing may be affected.
 
  

C. Donald O'Connor
aa364@freenet.Buffalo.edu