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Pain Management and Migraine Relief

Chronic pain affects an estimated 86 million American adults to some degree. Approximately 45 million Americans suffer from chronic headaches. Indie Cooper-Guzman RN shares information and advice about migraines and headaches, their causes, triggers, and treatments.

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WebMD Health News

Thursday, June 14, 2007

Happy Father's Day!
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I just wanted to take a few minutes to write a Happy Father's Day wish to all of the fathers out there! I always say I have been fortunate to have 3 fathers - my own dad, and the fathers of my two husbands! I was very fortunate to have fathers and not "fathers-in-law" like so many folks have. All of the fathers in my life were loving and showed it in their own unique ways.

I love to see good fathers! And I believe a father can be a good one regardless of whether they live under the same roof as their children or not. Good fathers:
  • Are actively involved in their children's life. Good fathers make the effort to watch their children play sports. They have a desire to know what their children's dreams are.
  • Talk regularly with their children. Whether a father is or is not living in the same home as their children doesn't matter. Good fathers make a point of talking with their children either in person or by email and/or phone on a daily basis.
  • Recognize and take responsibility for the child/children's financial needs. There are men out there who have children but do not take the responsibility of child support seriously. Their children often suffer for it. Good fathers recognize that they may have a financial responsibility to their children and they take care of it without complaint.
  • Put the needs of their children above their own. If a child is ill and needs medical attention, the good father makes sure proper care is obtained.
I consider myself to be blessed to have a husband who demonstrates the qualities of a good father. In fact, the relationship I saw between my husband and his daughter was a testimonial of his character as a man and was one of the things that made him attractive to me.

The fact that his daughter often calls him just to visit with him between weekend visitation says a lot about their relationship. Almost every night, his daughter calls to say good night to him and I think that is a precious thing. She makes sure he is up-to-date on the important things in her life. The sense of humor displayed by the both of them is a reflection of the closeness they share. Visitation weekends do not need to be totally structured with activities. They demonstrate enjoyment in just being together - laughing, chatting, and enjoying quality time together. I make an effort to step back during weekends so they have some uninterrupted time together.

One young 12-year-old is blessed with a wonderful father. There are many others out there who share that and it is such a wonderful thing. Others however may be less fortunate. There may be a history of a critical past relationship that may have led to a barrier in communication. Some children suffer the loss of a father during their young years and not know what it is like to have a father actively involved in their life. And for some, not knowing a father leaves an empty void in a child's life.

Father's Day is the perfect time to reach out to each other. Take time to consider letting go of old grudges of the past. Make time to see Dad and let him know there is an opportunity to possibly try and reconcile a strained relationship. There is only one life and we are not promised another day. It is important to try and live each day to the fullest. Open closed doors and explore who/what is inside.

Fathers - reserve at least one hug with your child's name on it and invite them to come get it! Resolving painful pasts may not be easy but it can be very rewarding. Doing so creates an opportunity to develop a fresh start with your child. Carrying grudges on your shoulders is a heavy burden that takes much energy. Free up that energy to be used on something positive! Have a wonderful day!

Indie

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Posted by: Indie Cooper-Guzman, RN at 3:20 PM

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