St. Mary's Parish Nurse Ministry Program
Ruth E. Williams, RN, MEPD, MSN

Dear Viewers, Peace to all in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. "Better a poor man who walks in his integrity than he who is crooked in his ways and rich." (Pro.19:1) August is known for National Cataract Awareness, National Psoriasis Awareness, and National Immunization Month. This month let's consider what PAD means. Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries that transport the blood to the legs, arm, heart and other organs. This plaque consists of fat, cholesterol, calcium and fibrous tissue. When the plaque builds up it is called Atherosclerosis, which hardens and narrows the opening of the arteries(www.nhlbi.mnih.gov/health)

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This newsletter focuses on the blood flow that affects the legs. Some symptoms are: leg pain that goes away when you stop exercising. This pain occurs in the muscles, not the joints, when walking, climbing stairs or exercising (www.americanheart.org). The major risk factors are: smoking, age, genetics, lifestyles, and diabetes. PAD occurs 2 times more in African Americans than in Caucasians. People who have PAD are at a higher risk for heart attack and stroke. What should a person do? See your Health Care Provider (HCP) and discuss any of the risks and symptoms. Some things an individual can do are: develop a prayer life, stop smoking, and establish regular physical activity according to your HCP guidelines. John 2 states, "beloved, I hope you are in good health-may you thrive in all other ways as you do in the spirit." Walk in Peace. Basic Parish Nurse Preparation Course at Viterbo University October, 2,3,9,10,16,17, 2009. Call 608-796-3670 for more information. HAPPY AND SAFE SUMMER My book, A COLLECTION OF PARISH NURSE NEWSLETTERS is available at www.dorrancebookstore.com; amazon.com; Eden Book Store (1-877-627-5653) toll free. Ocooch Book Store (1-608-647-8826).