Born in the USA begins with the author discussing the nightmarish atrocities that are involved within giving birth while living in America. It then starts to talk about different aspects of giving birth such as the option of having a midwife, or where in the USA a woman may want to give birth. The author then decides to end it with a conclusion of his idea of a better way of being born and how we as a country may be able to make an attempt to approach such a theory.
Born in the USA tries to answer a number of questions:
-Why do women living in the USA have a higher chance of death (70% more likely) due to childbirth when compared to places such as Europe?
-Why are methods to deliver a baby such as C-section so commonly used when a wide range of alternatives are available?
-What causes doctors to use such dangerous drugs and procedures in order to have a childbirth take place?
For the last question I think it’s the way our society is set up. We follow a strict set of norms and when someone tries to change it we are oh so surprised. As a society we tend to rely on drugs much more than we need to. We give it to patients who may not need it at all, while others are dying because they are in need of drugs but have little or no access to them.
The main insight so far is that majority of the females giving birth in the United States are prone to following their societal norms of giving birth. They are unaware of the deathly risks they may be taking by making it their choice of how they would like to experience their childbirth. We do not seem to consider the negative effects of making such decisions; instead we automatically tend to do what we have seen or heard others doing. Referring to the hospital has been an old action trigger in our society. When something out of the ordinary occurs having to do with our bodily functions, we simply join the epic race of contacting a doctor. When women are asked how they would like to have their baby delivered (by a doctor or a midwife) they usually have their answer ready “I like the doctor aspect of it.” (Business of Being Born). I think as a society we rely too much on what else but our society; little do we know is that these this is evil entities (doctors in this case) are willing to unnecessarily drug pregnant women, and attempt to perform dangerous surgeries on them, sometimes without their consent.
-Women in America are 70% more likely to die because of childbirth than those in Europe.
-Obstetricians use dangerous, unnecessary drugs and procedures in order to have a childbirth take place.
-Procedures such as a C-section are used when not necessary and almost readily used.
-The current misconduct crisis has been aggravated by the scare of responsibility.
-28 countries have lower maternity-mortality rates compared the USA, while 41 have lower infant-mortality rates.
The evidence used throughout the book so far refers to different types of evidence. Some of it refers to stories about mothers that have had experiences within the “broken maternity system” carried out in the U.S. Some references were made to much bigger branches such as the CDC, ACOG and FDA. Some pieces of evidence were obtained from other texts such as papers written on the topic and guides/books. There was also statistical data obtained from a survey taken at a hospital in Seattle. I feel that the evidence Wagner uses is accurate and reliable. The way he gathered this information from various sources and presents it seems quite honest to me.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Birth Book Part 3
Peggy Vincent, Baby Catcher Chronicles of a Modern Midwife, Scribner, 2003.
Precis:
Allah’s Blessing: Hameed and Naeema are a young couple who are very close to giving birth to their second child. Naeema seems to be really calm about this birth; she combs her long hair as if it is a task being used as a distraction towards her nervousness. Hameed has had a total life style change since he became a father with his first child. Collin and Hameed are around the same age; while Collin attends College in Santa Barbra, Hameed attends community college and works two different jobs in order to raise his family and have another addition as well. As a Muslim convert, it is Hameed’s job to fulfill his duties as a Muslim father. Right after his second child is born; Hameed brings his mouth to the baby’s right ear and says an Islamic saying.
Quotes:
“Collin and Hameed skateboarded together a few times after Naeema’s first birth, but those days were part of Hameed’s past. He now shouldered more obligations than people twice his age. While Collin surfed through his sophomore year of college in Santa Barbra, Hameed carried a full schedule in a community college. Four afternoons a week he worked at a camera store, and on the weekends he sold Muslim prayer beads from a booth at a flea market.” (pg. 271)
I feel like young couples don’t realize how big of a responsibility having a baby is. This is often common with females, but this baby hunger takes over the individual and seems to blind them from reality. Unless you have a stable job and a stable lifestyle you will have an extremely hard time to raise your kid. In Hameed and Naeema’s case I feel like they didn’t really take much into consideration before having kids. From what was said about Hameed, it seemed as if he doesn’t have a stable lifestyle for himself let alone his family. He is a young kid himself, but he is forced to act as a mature adult because of the sudden increase of responsibilities. I feel that it is a struggle for him to provide for this family, but at the end of the day he is doing the best he can do with what is in his hands.
“Hameed gulped and sputtered through his tears and put his mouth next to the wailing baby’s ear. His duty as a Muslim father demanded that Allah’s name be the first words his baby heard.” (pg. 274)
This is a really important part of a birth occurring in a Muslim family. I remember when my little sister was born, my uncle said the Azan to her right ear. This is in order to welcome the baby to the world in an Islamic way. I think this is an interesting way for a birth to stand out. It is not common in the states to have this ritual take place. In regular births, the family doesn’t really know what to do right after the baby is born, so they decide to hold it and cuddle it. In Islam you are given a set of rules to follow for each and every situation, so that you never feel lost; especially in such an intense moment such as birth.
“As I packed to leave a couple of hours later, I thought again of the special family this couple had created, bound by youth, love, and their common faith. But I wondered about that Islamic blessing being the first thing this baby girl had heard. Personally, I felt absolutely certain that she’d heard the vacuum cleaner loud and clear, but I decided not to argue the point.” (pg. 275)
From what I have read and heard, babies cause changes between the relationship of the mother and the father. These changes may be for the better or for the worst. In Hameed and Naeema’s case it seems as if this second child has created a closer bond between the family. I feel that this is because both parents tend to be playing their role well. Hameed sacrifices his young age for achieving a study and working two jobs. He has converted to Islam in order to make a straight path that should be followed by his family. I think that this decision will have many positive affects in this family.
Thoughts:
Each religion has a different approach to everything; it depends on the individual and how closely they are willing to follow it. I feel like Islam has a good way of getting its followers to live their life a certain way. Since you are born you are given a certain way to live, you hear Islamic sayings a few moments after you have entered this world. I am not well aware of how other religions welcome new beings to the world, but I feel that Islam provides you with a certain pathway to follow, whereas for others it’s all up to you. In Islam you know right from wrong because it is all given to you, it’s like you have a set of rules you need to follow, whereas in other cultures/religions you have to play this guessing game which tends to become an extra hassle.
Precis:
Allah’s Blessing: Hameed and Naeema are a young couple who are very close to giving birth to their second child. Naeema seems to be really calm about this birth; she combs her long hair as if it is a task being used as a distraction towards her nervousness. Hameed has had a total life style change since he became a father with his first child. Collin and Hameed are around the same age; while Collin attends College in Santa Barbra, Hameed attends community college and works two different jobs in order to raise his family and have another addition as well. As a Muslim convert, it is Hameed’s job to fulfill his duties as a Muslim father. Right after his second child is born; Hameed brings his mouth to the baby’s right ear and says an Islamic saying.
Quotes:
“Collin and Hameed skateboarded together a few times after Naeema’s first birth, but those days were part of Hameed’s past. He now shouldered more obligations than people twice his age. While Collin surfed through his sophomore year of college in Santa Barbra, Hameed carried a full schedule in a community college. Four afternoons a week he worked at a camera store, and on the weekends he sold Muslim prayer beads from a booth at a flea market.” (pg. 271)
I feel like young couples don’t realize how big of a responsibility having a baby is. This is often common with females, but this baby hunger takes over the individual and seems to blind them from reality. Unless you have a stable job and a stable lifestyle you will have an extremely hard time to raise your kid. In Hameed and Naeema’s case I feel like they didn’t really take much into consideration before having kids. From what was said about Hameed, it seemed as if he doesn’t have a stable lifestyle for himself let alone his family. He is a young kid himself, but he is forced to act as a mature adult because of the sudden increase of responsibilities. I feel that it is a struggle for him to provide for this family, but at the end of the day he is doing the best he can do with what is in his hands.
“Hameed gulped and sputtered through his tears and put his mouth next to the wailing baby’s ear. His duty as a Muslim father demanded that Allah’s name be the first words his baby heard.” (pg. 274)
This is a really important part of a birth occurring in a Muslim family. I remember when my little sister was born, my uncle said the Azan to her right ear. This is in order to welcome the baby to the world in an Islamic way. I think this is an interesting way for a birth to stand out. It is not common in the states to have this ritual take place. In regular births, the family doesn’t really know what to do right after the baby is born, so they decide to hold it and cuddle it. In Islam you are given a set of rules to follow for each and every situation, so that you never feel lost; especially in such an intense moment such as birth.
“As I packed to leave a couple of hours later, I thought again of the special family this couple had created, bound by youth, love, and their common faith. But I wondered about that Islamic blessing being the first thing this baby girl had heard. Personally, I felt absolutely certain that she’d heard the vacuum cleaner loud and clear, but I decided not to argue the point.” (pg. 275)
From what I have read and heard, babies cause changes between the relationship of the mother and the father. These changes may be for the better or for the worst. In Hameed and Naeema’s case it seems as if this second child has created a closer bond between the family. I feel that this is because both parents tend to be playing their role well. Hameed sacrifices his young age for achieving a study and working two jobs. He has converted to Islam in order to make a straight path that should be followed by his family. I think that this decision will have many positive affects in this family.
Thoughts:
Each religion has a different approach to everything; it depends on the individual and how closely they are willing to follow it. I feel like Islam has a good way of getting its followers to live their life a certain way. Since you are born you are given a certain way to live, you hear Islamic sayings a few moments after you have entered this world. I am not well aware of how other religions welcome new beings to the world, but I feel that Islam provides you with a certain pathway to follow, whereas for others it’s all up to you. In Islam you know right from wrong because it is all given to you, it’s like you have a set of rules you need to follow, whereas in other cultures/religions you have to play this guessing game which tends to become an extra hassle.
Birth Book Part 2
Peggy Vincent, Baby Catcher Chronicles of a Modern Midwife, Scribner, 2003.
Precis:
When Mom is a Midwife: It’s not very common to hear an individual tell you that their mother or wife is a midwife. Peggy’s husband and kids live a different lifestyle when compared to those of their friends. Their mom is always out on call at any time of day 365 days in a year. They can never rely on their mom for being with them at all times. Peggy is lucky to have a husband who has a flexible work schedule which allows her to attend her patients and give them all the time they need. Her kids and husband often find it weird to have a midwife as a mom since its very uncommon to find a frozen placenta in the freezer, and have a mother/wife who has daily conversations with women about their sex lives or the color of discharge they had spotted that day.
Quotes:
“Midwives are risky dinner guests.” (pg. 153)
I think it’s a tough job to keep this label upon ones self. Many people tend to lose contacts and good relations when they miss out on such functions. I know in my culture when someone does not attend a wedding or any other special occasion it is looked bad upon them. I am sure the same applies here; but Peggy has a good excuse and she is well known for obtaining a career as a midwife, so I believe that not many people give her as big of a problem as they would to a common individual.
“With my patients permission, I took ten-year-old Jill to eight births, and she soaked up the drama like someone seeing Swan Lake performed for the first time.” (pg. 155)
I personally don’t feel that it’s appropriate to have your 10 year old daughter accompany you while you help women give birth. In the culture I am from, kids at this age are not used to be aware of such a topic and I feel that this is how it should be. I don’t really have much of an explanation to why but this wasn’t how I grew up. Growing up in a community where it is common to have such topics discussed openly compared to where I am from I feel pretty awkward coming across these situations. If I were to be given such a chance at this age I would deny the offer.
“So Dad’s known as The Midwife’s Husband, and now I’m known as The Placenta Lady’s Son. Great, mom. Just great.” (pg. 157)
I think if I were in Collin’s position I would react the same way. In our society we are not used to being different from others; everybody has this urge to fit in and not stand out amongst others. In this case having a mother as a midwife is something that our society is not commonly known for. When people in the neighborhood heard about their next door neighbor being a midwife their ears stood up; this was something completley different for them. I personally wouldn’t want to be referred to as “The Placenta Lady’s Daughter” because it sounds different and we don’t use this word commonly in our society.
Thoughts:
Most of the reactions I read about from Peggy’s husband and kids were all something I would expect. I would have reacted the same way if I were to be in their position. But I realized that both her husband and kids were really supportive throughout her career. I have never known anyone who has or has had a career as a midwife, but after reading about Peggy and her family’s reactions towards her career I feel like I know all I need to know about a midwife and how she is treated by others in the family. It seems to be a job that not all families can handle. There is a lot of team support needed from all sides of the family in order to help the mother have a successful career as a midwife. There were times throughout this specific chapter where Collin and Rog minded a few things about Peggy’s career, but at the end of the day they accepted that Peggy is a midwife and that’s that. I know if I were to be in the same situation I would be forced to do the same; Even though it would be something I would need to get used to, I would have to accept it and have a positive attitude.
Precis:
When Mom is a Midwife: It’s not very common to hear an individual tell you that their mother or wife is a midwife. Peggy’s husband and kids live a different lifestyle when compared to those of their friends. Their mom is always out on call at any time of day 365 days in a year. They can never rely on their mom for being with them at all times. Peggy is lucky to have a husband who has a flexible work schedule which allows her to attend her patients and give them all the time they need. Her kids and husband often find it weird to have a midwife as a mom since its very uncommon to find a frozen placenta in the freezer, and have a mother/wife who has daily conversations with women about their sex lives or the color of discharge they had spotted that day.
Quotes:
“Midwives are risky dinner guests.” (pg. 153)
I think it’s a tough job to keep this label upon ones self. Many people tend to lose contacts and good relations when they miss out on such functions. I know in my culture when someone does not attend a wedding or any other special occasion it is looked bad upon them. I am sure the same applies here; but Peggy has a good excuse and she is well known for obtaining a career as a midwife, so I believe that not many people give her as big of a problem as they would to a common individual.
“With my patients permission, I took ten-year-old Jill to eight births, and she soaked up the drama like someone seeing Swan Lake performed for the first time.” (pg. 155)
I personally don’t feel that it’s appropriate to have your 10 year old daughter accompany you while you help women give birth. In the culture I am from, kids at this age are not used to be aware of such a topic and I feel that this is how it should be. I don’t really have much of an explanation to why but this wasn’t how I grew up. Growing up in a community where it is common to have such topics discussed openly compared to where I am from I feel pretty awkward coming across these situations. If I were to be given such a chance at this age I would deny the offer.
“So Dad’s known as The Midwife’s Husband, and now I’m known as The Placenta Lady’s Son. Great, mom. Just great.” (pg. 157)
I think if I were in Collin’s position I would react the same way. In our society we are not used to being different from others; everybody has this urge to fit in and not stand out amongst others. In this case having a mother as a midwife is something that our society is not commonly known for. When people in the neighborhood heard about their next door neighbor being a midwife their ears stood up; this was something completley different for them. I personally wouldn’t want to be referred to as “The Placenta Lady’s Daughter” because it sounds different and we don’t use this word commonly in our society.
Thoughts:
Most of the reactions I read about from Peggy’s husband and kids were all something I would expect. I would have reacted the same way if I were to be in their position. But I realized that both her husband and kids were really supportive throughout her career. I have never known anyone who has or has had a career as a midwife, but after reading about Peggy and her family’s reactions towards her career I feel like I know all I need to know about a midwife and how she is treated by others in the family. It seems to be a job that not all families can handle. There is a lot of team support needed from all sides of the family in order to help the mother have a successful career as a midwife. There were times throughout this specific chapter where Collin and Rog minded a few things about Peggy’s career, but at the end of the day they accepted that Peggy is a midwife and that’s that. I know if I were to be in the same situation I would be forced to do the same; Even though it would be something I would need to get used to, I would have to accept it and have a positive attitude.
Birth Book Part 1
Peggy Vincent, Baby Catcher Chronicles of a Modern Midwife, Scribner, 2003.
Precis:
Painless Birth: Peggy Vincent talks about her personal experiences of giving birth to her son Collin and daughter Jill. While giving birth to Collin, Vincent experiences some complications caused by her infused tailbone which is normally supposed to function like a swinging door. While in labor she refused to take drugs because she had set her mind on having a birth without taking any medication. But after dealing with hours of unexpected excruciating pains she is forced to ask for half a dosage of drugs. After giving birth she regrets this decision. Once again, 2 years later Peggy finds herself pregnant; this time being in labor isn’t as bad as her first experience. This time she is able to have a natural birthing experience, without any use of drugs and for this she is very proud.
Quotes:
“That little blue book of lies had said, “Pushing is a relief. Finally you can work with your body.” I’d believed it. I’d said it myself to rooms full of unsuspecting, pregnant women. “Pushing will feel wonderful. You’ll love it.” Bullshit. Pushing hurt worst of all.” (pg. 51)
Having obtained a career as a midwife, Peggy believed that her experience with birth would be no problem at all. Little did she know that she knew almost nothing about giving birth; while giving birth to Collin she behaves as if she is totally new to the topic of birth and being in labor. I guess the quote “It’s easier to say than to do” applies here. As a midwife it is Peggy’s job to make the environment as comfortable as possible for mothers who are expecting. Before experiencing labor and birth on her own, Peggy had an opposite approach to such a situation, but after experiencing it herself she feels shameful knowing that she wasn’t much help to mothers she helped give birth.
“Your tailbone’s fused.” The tailbone should operate like a swinging door; mine was latched.” (pg. 51)
From what I have heard being in labor and giving birth is an experience of its own. Each and every woman has a different view on this topic based on their own thoughts, feelings, and what they have heard from others. In Peggy’s case I feel that the situation with her tailbone was like a cherry that topped an ice cream sundae. It was one extra thing she had which made her labor and birth experience special. It was a bittersweet factor which was unexpected and painful at the time, but I am sure that when she recalls this moment she feels somewhat proud of being able to get through this very tough situation. Even though there were some drugs used for Collin’s birth, I feel that Peggy played a fair game.
“We went home the next morning . Joy flooded my whole being, and right behind it came pride. I felt so smug. Smug that I’d figured out how to labor painlessly. Smug that the thought of drugs never entered my mind. Smug that I had a boy and a girl. Smug at how terrific I felt, like miss America with a tiara, cape, and a bouquet of long-stemmed roses. “ (pg. 54)
I don’t really understand why mothers feel so proud about bringing home a new being to their home. I am sure that I will have the same response in the future but why is this? I think this may be a sense of achievement. Dealing with the whole process, such as making all the doctor visits, eating carefully, making sure to take good rest, etc. After giving birth it seems like you are given a reward for all this hard work. You finally get to see what you put all your hard work into; you finally get to see what he/she looks like and what you had been taking such well care of. I think it’s only after giving birth when it all comes true. Before giving birth, mothers seem like they are aware of a fact that is almost impossible to believe, but when they actually get to see that tiny little creature that came from within, only then they are able to believe the truth without any doubt.
Thoughts:
After reading this specific chapter I realized that no matter how much research one may have done on a specific topic, you have learned almost nothing until you have experienced it yourself. I remember earlier in the unit I asked the question “how helpful are parenting books?” As I was reading this chapter I thought back to when I asked this question. Everybody has a different view on each and everything. For birth it seems to be the same case; some mothers have an easier time going through it while others have a harder time with their experience. One child may be born with greater difficulty while the other is born without giving much complication. I think the same applies for the question I had asked earlier. There are a number of methods out there that may help mothers deliver their babies with much more ease, but the author has almost no knowledge until she has experienced it herself. I don’t think these books really do much help to the expecting mother; instead I feel as if it creates more tension for the parents to be, especially the mother. It gives them a number of unnecessary things to think about and gives them an opportunity to think about negative outcomes as well, in return causing overwhelming amounts of stress.
Precis:
Painless Birth: Peggy Vincent talks about her personal experiences of giving birth to her son Collin and daughter Jill. While giving birth to Collin, Vincent experiences some complications caused by her infused tailbone which is normally supposed to function like a swinging door. While in labor she refused to take drugs because she had set her mind on having a birth without taking any medication. But after dealing with hours of unexpected excruciating pains she is forced to ask for half a dosage of drugs. After giving birth she regrets this decision. Once again, 2 years later Peggy finds herself pregnant; this time being in labor isn’t as bad as her first experience. This time she is able to have a natural birthing experience, without any use of drugs and for this she is very proud.
Quotes:
“That little blue book of lies had said, “Pushing is a relief. Finally you can work with your body.” I’d believed it. I’d said it myself to rooms full of unsuspecting, pregnant women. “Pushing will feel wonderful. You’ll love it.” Bullshit. Pushing hurt worst of all.” (pg. 51)
Having obtained a career as a midwife, Peggy believed that her experience with birth would be no problem at all. Little did she know that she knew almost nothing about giving birth; while giving birth to Collin she behaves as if she is totally new to the topic of birth and being in labor. I guess the quote “It’s easier to say than to do” applies here. As a midwife it is Peggy’s job to make the environment as comfortable as possible for mothers who are expecting. Before experiencing labor and birth on her own, Peggy had an opposite approach to such a situation, but after experiencing it herself she feels shameful knowing that she wasn’t much help to mothers she helped give birth.
“Your tailbone’s fused.” The tailbone should operate like a swinging door; mine was latched.” (pg. 51)
From what I have heard being in labor and giving birth is an experience of its own. Each and every woman has a different view on this topic based on their own thoughts, feelings, and what they have heard from others. In Peggy’s case I feel that the situation with her tailbone was like a cherry that topped an ice cream sundae. It was one extra thing she had which made her labor and birth experience special. It was a bittersweet factor which was unexpected and painful at the time, but I am sure that when she recalls this moment she feels somewhat proud of being able to get through this very tough situation. Even though there were some drugs used for Collin’s birth, I feel that Peggy played a fair game.
“We went home the next morning . Joy flooded my whole being, and right behind it came pride. I felt so smug. Smug that I’d figured out how to labor painlessly. Smug that the thought of drugs never entered my mind. Smug that I had a boy and a girl. Smug at how terrific I felt, like miss America with a tiara, cape, and a bouquet of long-stemmed roses. “ (pg. 54)
I don’t really understand why mothers feel so proud about bringing home a new being to their home. I am sure that I will have the same response in the future but why is this? I think this may be a sense of achievement. Dealing with the whole process, such as making all the doctor visits, eating carefully, making sure to take good rest, etc. After giving birth it seems like you are given a reward for all this hard work. You finally get to see what you put all your hard work into; you finally get to see what he/she looks like and what you had been taking such well care of. I think it’s only after giving birth when it all comes true. Before giving birth, mothers seem like they are aware of a fact that is almost impossible to believe, but when they actually get to see that tiny little creature that came from within, only then they are able to believe the truth without any doubt.
Thoughts:
After reading this specific chapter I realized that no matter how much research one may have done on a specific topic, you have learned almost nothing until you have experienced it yourself. I remember earlier in the unit I asked the question “how helpful are parenting books?” As I was reading this chapter I thought back to when I asked this question. Everybody has a different view on each and everything. For birth it seems to be the same case; some mothers have an easier time going through it while others have a harder time with their experience. One child may be born with greater difficulty while the other is born without giving much complication. I think the same applies for the question I had asked earlier. There are a number of methods out there that may help mothers deliver their babies with much more ease, but the author has almost no knowledge until she has experienced it herself. I don’t think these books really do much help to the expecting mother; instead I feel as if it creates more tension for the parents to be, especially the mother. It gives them a number of unnecessary things to think about and gives them an opportunity to think about negative outcomes as well, in return causing overwhelming amounts of stress.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Hwk 34
Birth: hospitals, crying, pain, doctors, cute, warm, love, happiness, nurture, abortion, toys, clothes, nervous, fear, names, care, maternity, pea in a pod, sweaty, disgusting, bodily fluids, graphic, blood, pink, blue, pacifier, rattle, family. These are just a few things that come into my mind when I think of “birth”. I personally believe that all living things are supposed to reproduce at least once in their life time. All living things such as plants and animals are expected to keep reproduce for generations in order to keep themselves around for a long time. Even though humans are known to be living creatures, we have accustomed ourselves to a different set of rules; this seems to be a severe case in Western societies. Since birth, we are raised to become someone in society and play a role; this role can vary amongst others, but it distracts us from the main role nature has intended upon us to play. I believe that we have many reasons to live, but the main reason is to reproduce, yet we are too distracted to keep up with other societal norms that we see past the main reason to why we are here.
At the moment I feel pretty weird about birth; it’s not something that I am used to discussing. Usually in my culture you learn about such things when the actual time comes. Here it is much different; you become aware of such matters way before you actually need such knowledge. Maybe this may explain why young individuals in our society are prone to experiencing such things at such an immature age. Growing up in such a society, I am used to feeling awkward when it comes to the topic about birth. In this culture women are really open about their pregnancy with the public. They try to take advantage over their pregnancy by getting treated with extra care and being showered with a number of “congratulations!” In societies such as Pakistan this isn’t the case, women usually try to hide the fact that they are pregnant. There such a topic is a private matter; not open for discussion amongst the public. I think it’s weird how these two societies are so different; because of this I usually find myself lost sinceI can’t really tell right from wrong. I personally think that it’s better for a woman to keep her pregnancy a private matter amongst her family.
Questions:
Exactly how much of a help is the father to be to the mother throughout her pregnancy and beyond?
How do birth rates vary in different societies?
Why is giving birth at a young age accepted in some societies while in others it is an area of concern?
What are the rules regarding birth in different countries around the world?
How does it feel to be pregnant?
At the moment I feel pretty weird about birth; it’s not something that I am used to discussing. Usually in my culture you learn about such things when the actual time comes. Here it is much different; you become aware of such matters way before you actually need such knowledge. Maybe this may explain why young individuals in our society are prone to experiencing such things at such an immature age. Growing up in such a society, I am used to feeling awkward when it comes to the topic about birth. In this culture women are really open about their pregnancy with the public. They try to take advantage over their pregnancy by getting treated with extra care and being showered with a number of “congratulations!” In societies such as Pakistan this isn’t the case, women usually try to hide the fact that they are pregnant. There such a topic is a private matter; not open for discussion amongst the public. I think it’s weird how these two societies are so different; because of this I usually find myself lost sinceI can’t really tell right from wrong. I personally think that it’s better for a woman to keep her pregnancy a private matter amongst her family.
Questions:
Exactly how much of a help is the father to be to the mother throughout her pregnancy and beyond?
How do birth rates vary in different societies?
Why is giving birth at a young age accepted in some societies while in others it is an area of concern?
What are the rules regarding birth in different countries around the world?
How does it feel to be pregnant?
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Extra Credit
I decided to use this extra credit assignment to gain some more insights and experience on illness and dying before we move on to the next unit. I have a close family friend who has been admitted in a hospital for cancer. My parents have been taking out some of their time to pay him a visit at least once a week; I decided to join them on their visits throughout this week. This is one specific visit I paid yesterday (Saturday). While taking the elevator ride up to the seventh floor, I asked my father how long his friend has been in the hospital for; he told me that it has been almost a month now. “Wow…” Was all I could say to myself at the time; I could not imagine myself in the same position. As a society we usually fear hospitals and such environments, but when we become ill or near death we are willing to spend all the time we have being treated there. The elevator doors opened and we were greeted by a desk, where a few doctors were talking to the people behind the desk. We turned to the right and entered a room.
There I saw him lying on his bed, with his wife sitting beside him. There was a curtain that took place of a partition from another patient on the other side. His wife was feeding him something, it seemed like pudding to me. We all said our Salams, then my parents started to ask then how they are doing, he responded with “Alhumdulilah” (Praise to God). As time progressed he started to talk about his childhood and his future plans. He said that he wants to be there when his daughter who is in first grade now is getting married. He talked about his dreams of performing Hajj before he dies. Later on he started to complain about his poor eyesight which was caused by his cancer. I noticed that the room was a bit tight in space; not everything was neatly organized, but everything seemed to be well sanitized. Throughout the time we were with him he had ate some pudding like substance, and drank an ensure shake. Only once did a doctor come in to do an eye exam on him. After about an hour and thirty minutes had passed, he seemed to look tired, so we said our goodbyes and departed.
Growing up it was normal to see my father’s friend at our house for dinner. I remember he used to have a fuller figure, but now it seemed as if he has lost a lot of weight. Other then him losing a lot of weight, I wouldn’t be able to tell that is sick with cancer. He talked as he did before, but now the topics which he discussed differed from his previous discussions with my father. Before he used to discuss issues that were occurring in his present life; now he was sharing his aims for the future and his past such as his childhood. Both he and his wife seemed to be pretty calm; I imagined his wife to have lost some weight or have some external changes such as the way she dressed or did her make up, but not much differed from the way she looked in the past.
Throughout the whole time I felt like I was an observer and a listener. I felt normal as I do most of the time. At some points I felt bad for him, this man had a young child, what would happen to her if he wasn’t able to live for long? I remembered that night to keep him and his family in my prayers; I continue to do so to this day. I wish that I could be able to make a drastic change in his health, but I am well aware that this is not possible. I remember that I was thinking to myself about why certain people become sick while other live healthy lifestyles? What sets them apart? But I kept all these thoughts to myself, because it wouldn’t have made much a difference if I were to share them.
Some social practices that supported their dignity were the visits being paid to them by family and friends they usually don’t get to see very often. He also had his wife performing all the usual tasks he would perform himself if he wasn’t sick. We made sure to bring him something with every visit we paid him, usually it was some beverage. I guess it all depends on how one looks at the situation. Each individual has a different approach to everything; it is the same for this case as well. One may feel happy with all the pity they receive upon their sickness while another may not like it as much. Usually we enjoy the pity we receive because we like attention, but others may not like the pity because the trigger of all this pity is their sickness. I would say that in this specific situation, my father’s friend seemed to be neutral.
There I saw him lying on his bed, with his wife sitting beside him. There was a curtain that took place of a partition from another patient on the other side. His wife was feeding him something, it seemed like pudding to me. We all said our Salams, then my parents started to ask then how they are doing, he responded with “Alhumdulilah” (Praise to God). As time progressed he started to talk about his childhood and his future plans. He said that he wants to be there when his daughter who is in first grade now is getting married. He talked about his dreams of performing Hajj before he dies. Later on he started to complain about his poor eyesight which was caused by his cancer. I noticed that the room was a bit tight in space; not everything was neatly organized, but everything seemed to be well sanitized. Throughout the time we were with him he had ate some pudding like substance, and drank an ensure shake. Only once did a doctor come in to do an eye exam on him. After about an hour and thirty minutes had passed, he seemed to look tired, so we said our goodbyes and departed.
Growing up it was normal to see my father’s friend at our house for dinner. I remember he used to have a fuller figure, but now it seemed as if he has lost a lot of weight. Other then him losing a lot of weight, I wouldn’t be able to tell that is sick with cancer. He talked as he did before, but now the topics which he discussed differed from his previous discussions with my father. Before he used to discuss issues that were occurring in his present life; now he was sharing his aims for the future and his past such as his childhood. Both he and his wife seemed to be pretty calm; I imagined his wife to have lost some weight or have some external changes such as the way she dressed or did her make up, but not much differed from the way she looked in the past.
Throughout the whole time I felt like I was an observer and a listener. I felt normal as I do most of the time. At some points I felt bad for him, this man had a young child, what would happen to her if he wasn’t able to live for long? I remembered that night to keep him and his family in my prayers; I continue to do so to this day. I wish that I could be able to make a drastic change in his health, but I am well aware that this is not possible. I remember that I was thinking to myself about why certain people become sick while other live healthy lifestyles? What sets them apart? But I kept all these thoughts to myself, because it wouldn’t have made much a difference if I were to share them.
Some social practices that supported their dignity were the visits being paid to them by family and friends they usually don’t get to see very often. He also had his wife performing all the usual tasks he would perform himself if he wasn’t sick. We made sure to bring him something with every visit we paid him, usually it was some beverage. I guess it all depends on how one looks at the situation. Each individual has a different approach to everything; it is the same for this case as well. One may feel happy with all the pity they receive upon their sickness while another may not like it as much. Usually we enjoy the pity we receive because we like attention, but others may not like the pity because the trigger of all this pity is their sickness. I would say that in this specific situation, my father’s friend seemed to be neutral.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Hwk 33
For Kevin:
Hey Kevin,
I agreed with what you had to say. You were able to sum up to the reader about all the insights you have about illness and dying in our culture. I liked the last part the most; you are right, we are not required to follow the dominant social practices that much of our society tends to follow. There are a number of alternatives out there, but society has raised us in a way so that we are accustomed to the general social norms. I feel the same way after taking a part of this unit; the next time I get sick I won't have the same thoughts as I did in the past. I was able to connect myself with much of what you had to say throught this post. Keep this up, because it really got me thinking. For next time though, I would advise you to proof read; you made a couple of grammar mistakes.
Amber
For Bianca:
Hi Bianca,
You did a nice job of weaving in some beauty throughout your post. It was interesting to read about your sum up of this unit. While reading this I became well aware of your thoughts about hospitals and how they present themselves as factories in our society. While reading through this I found myself shaking my head a few times; not because what you had to say was bad, but because most of what you had to say was true to some extent. You are right, there are many different ways one can look at hospitals and this can help shape up ones thoughts about illness and dying and how they intend to deal with their own death. I liked how you used this factory idea with hospitals and connected it to pupils in school. There are many nightmarish atrocities that fill up our society, may it be illness or dying, food or school.
Amber
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From Kevin:
I don't exactly agree with everything that you said, but I think your post was very thought provoking. Overall it was a well-structured post. Every paragraph stuck to one idea. This made it very easy to follow what you were saying, and ultimately get the points you were making. I think one of the best points that you brought up was the one where you were talking about how people react to others dying. While I don't think that everyone is selfish, that more people are confused then selfish. But you make the point clearly, and it's thought provoking. A lot of the blog posts I've read make me think a little. But by asking so many questions this gets me thinking a lot. Good work.
From Bianca:
I loved that you took full advantage of the amount of writing you wanted to provide. Though I think a mere paragraph would've sufficed, your writing was most certainly appreciated. The questions you stated at the end of your last paragraph definitely proved to be thought-provoking. I also agree that we are selfish when dealing with such things like death and illness. I realize that these three paragraphs are your thoughts but, also keep in mind the consistency in your structuring. It's easy to digress from such a topic but, you did great.
From Attic (Mother):
Amber,
I agree with most of what you have to say here. My favorite line was when you questioned the reader: "When we think of the word doctor we think of some magical person who will make it his/her full responsibility to cure us. But who is underneath this label “doctor”, do we really know who he/she is?" It made me think about all those times I have had to rely on a doctor or a dentist. You are right, society makes us blind when it comes to our caregivers. It makes us believe as if we should have trust without any question for those who we depend on; and you are right, this should not be the case.
Mom
From Basement (Brother):
Amber,
When you said: "As a country we have modernized in many ways, yet we haven’t really modernized our healthcare system." I totally agree. We are always in a hurry to become the owner of the latest gadgets out there, but what about those who are not able to afford medical care for themself. I know that nothing is fair in life, but I think that healthcare is a topic that needs to be fair to all no matter what the case may be. I am aware that there are efforts being made, but we need to pick up our pace.
Nabil
Hey Kevin,
I agreed with what you had to say. You were able to sum up to the reader about all the insights you have about illness and dying in our culture. I liked the last part the most; you are right, we are not required to follow the dominant social practices that much of our society tends to follow. There are a number of alternatives out there, but society has raised us in a way so that we are accustomed to the general social norms. I feel the same way after taking a part of this unit; the next time I get sick I won't have the same thoughts as I did in the past. I was able to connect myself with much of what you had to say throught this post. Keep this up, because it really got me thinking. For next time though, I would advise you to proof read; you made a couple of grammar mistakes.
Amber
For Bianca:
Hi Bianca,
You did a nice job of weaving in some beauty throughout your post. It was interesting to read about your sum up of this unit. While reading this I became well aware of your thoughts about hospitals and how they present themselves as factories in our society. While reading through this I found myself shaking my head a few times; not because what you had to say was bad, but because most of what you had to say was true to some extent. You are right, there are many different ways one can look at hospitals and this can help shape up ones thoughts about illness and dying and how they intend to deal with their own death. I liked how you used this factory idea with hospitals and connected it to pupils in school. There are many nightmarish atrocities that fill up our society, may it be illness or dying, food or school.
Amber
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From Kevin:
I don't exactly agree with everything that you said, but I think your post was very thought provoking. Overall it was a well-structured post. Every paragraph stuck to one idea. This made it very easy to follow what you were saying, and ultimately get the points you were making. I think one of the best points that you brought up was the one where you were talking about how people react to others dying. While I don't think that everyone is selfish, that more people are confused then selfish. But you make the point clearly, and it's thought provoking. A lot of the blog posts I've read make me think a little. But by asking so many questions this gets me thinking a lot. Good work.
From Bianca:
I loved that you took full advantage of the amount of writing you wanted to provide. Though I think a mere paragraph would've sufficed, your writing was most certainly appreciated. The questions you stated at the end of your last paragraph definitely proved to be thought-provoking. I also agree that we are selfish when dealing with such things like death and illness. I realize that these three paragraphs are your thoughts but, also keep in mind the consistency in your structuring. It's easy to digress from such a topic but, you did great.
From Attic (Mother):
Amber,
I agree with most of what you have to say here. My favorite line was when you questioned the reader: "When we think of the word doctor we think of some magical person who will make it his/her full responsibility to cure us. But who is underneath this label “doctor”, do we really know who he/she is?" It made me think about all those times I have had to rely on a doctor or a dentist. You are right, society makes us blind when it comes to our caregivers. It makes us believe as if we should have trust without any question for those who we depend on; and you are right, this should not be the case.
Mom
From Basement (Brother):
Amber,
When you said: "As a country we have modernized in many ways, yet we haven’t really modernized our healthcare system." I totally agree. We are always in a hurry to become the owner of the latest gadgets out there, but what about those who are not able to afford medical care for themself. I know that nothing is fair in life, but I think that healthcare is a topic that needs to be fair to all no matter what the case may be. I am aware that there are efforts being made, but we need to pick up our pace.
Nabil
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