Julia K Cole

Singing just two songs a day can lower blood pressure by as much as 25 percent, according to Harvard scientists. Singing has distinct advantages over everyday chitchat. When we sing instead of speak, we have intonation, melody line, and crescendo, which gives us a broader vocabulary to express ourselves.   You don't have to be a professional to reap the benefits of singing. While previous studies have shown that listening to music may help lower an individual's blood pressure, new research that was published in the March, 2011 issue of "American Journal Arthritis Care and Research" indicates that singing or producing melodies may provide similar benefits. The researchers followed a 76-year-old woman through her treatment for bilateral knee osteoarthritis. Despite her use of several drug-based therapies, the doctors had to postpone the woman's procedure (total knee replacement surgery) due to her high blood pressure which had reached 240/120. Read More by cli...

Advances in technology and the understanding of HIV/AIDS have come a long way. The fact of the matter is that blood donations are safest and most effective when using rational, scientifically-based deferral periods that are applied fairly and consistently among blood donors who engage in similar risk activities.  These screening strategies provide an inclusive, internationally recognized means for keeping blood supplies safe. In fact, the American Medical Association and the American Red Cross are both in support of a reevaluation of the lifetime ban of gay men from donating blood.  And most recently, over eighty-two Democratic and Republican lawmakers in the U.S. House and U.S. Senate have asked for the reevaluation. We are behind in our policies in comparison with other countries.  Both Canada and the UK in recent years have lifted their lifetime ban restrictions. Regardless, blood donations save lives, and although I take issue with the FDA's policy, the com...

This summer, blood donors and recipients have been graciously sharing their Red Cross stories with us. We've been awed by their response and humbled by their willingness to share and inspire others. There are  many reasons why people choose to give their lifesaving blood. And far too many of them relate to their own personal need or that of a family member or friend. The truth is, nearly everyone will know someone in their lifetime that needs a blood transfusion. Yet only 3 percent of the population actually gives. Why wait? Right now, blood products are being distributed to area hospitals almost as quickly as donations are coming in. You can help ensure blood is on the shelves at local hospitals  Please schedule your blood donation today .  *~*~*~* Click HERE   To make An Appointment to Donate Blood! Known as The Empress of the Known & Unknown Universes™ and The Diva of Duct Tape, Julia has made it her personal ...

I’m taking this opportunity to remind everyone that The Red Cross needs your continuous support.  Did you know … The American Red Cross helps people in emergencies every single  day?    It’s True! Whether its half a million disaster victims or one sick child who needs blood,  their work is made possible by people like you and me. There are various ways you can help out.  Through financial  donations, blood drives, volunteering to provide assistance in locating and contacting a loved one,  finding and providing shelter and supplies, help others recover from disasters and much, much more! No special skills are required.    Only your desire to help is needed.  The Red Cross needs people with all kinds of different backgrounds, talents and skill levels. And, if you need training, they will  provide it. Learn how good it can feel to lend a helping hand -- Support The Red Cross TODAY! Visit their website at  http...