Stimulants, Marijuana & Athletes and Drugs - Chapter 10-13

    This module was very informative for me. When researching my response to one of the other students, I was surprised to find out about caffeine addiction and the possibility of overdose. Finding the chart that I had posted will be a great reference tool for me to use in the future for myself and my children to watch our caffeine intake. Here it is again: http://www.caffeineinformer.com/the-caffeine-database

    I also learned about a program called The Adolescent Training and Learning to Avoid Steroids Program (ATLAS). I have a young son that may be interested in sports when he gets older. I would not personally make my son aware of steroid use, unless he asked me. I would then explain what they are and what the dangers could be. I am on both sides of the fence with this. If my son has never been introduced to steroids, I would not want a program like this to put the idea in his head. Yet, if he does learn about them and is not willing to discuss it with myself or his father, I would want a program like this available to teach him how to avoid them and alternatives to using steroids. Here is a little background on what the program entails: http://www.ohsu.edu/xd/education/schools/school-of-medicine/departments/clinical-departments/medicine/divisions/hpsm/research/atlas.cfm

    I think I have done fairly well during this module. I always look at our seminar discussions as a way to educate the other students and myself. I think I may go a bit overboard though. The past two modules, I have not had any students respond to my question. I think I may be putting too much into my post that they may not want to read. Considering all of my posts and responses have received a 5, I must be doing something right! I don't think for the last module I will change anything. I am proud of my work and the depth to which I explain myself. 

    I know in my last blog post I had mentioned that I am an older student and I feel that has played a part in my success in this class. Even though I have a husband and three children I need to look after as well as my other classes and clinical, I make sure to carve out time for this class. I am investing in myself and my future and I will not do it halfheartedly. I think of it as this...if I am going to take time away from my family to do something for myself, it better darn well be worth it. I would also hope that I am setting an example for my children to show them it's never too late to go after what you want and whatever you choose to do, give it everything you have. I am really looking forward to graduation and having my family there to cheer me on. It has been a long two years but it has been well worth it. I am proud of what I have done and I think all students should pride themselves on wanting to better themselves.