I was scared. I was a nervous wreck and I thought my life of carefree fun was over.

I knew all the right things to tell myself. Who cares what other people think? You don't know these people and they don't know you. So why do you care what they think about you wearing oxygen? So, what. Right? But I did care. I'm human. 

So, what did I do? I jumped right out there with both feet. My best friend and I went out. She told me that if she caught anyone staring at me that she would beat them up. She was so serious that it made me laugh. She decided that she was going to be my defender. (no actual beatings ocurred!!)

People do stare. It's human nature to be curious. When I catch them staring, I just smile at them and it throws them off. I guess people don't expect me to be so... I don't know.. Friendly? Outgoing? or Willing to talk about "What's wrong with me." However, a smile works every time.

 

Hi there I had to comment on the jumping in public with oxygen. Its not the same but my husband has photosensitivic eplipsy (sp!). Which means he has to wear dark glasses at all times when he goes out side. Alot of times people stare but most dont really notice it until he goes out at night or to the gym. Then people will make comments, usually nasty ones. He just either laughs at them or ignores them. But I also wanted to say that you have an awsome out look on life and that I would love to add you to my list of friends.

Heya! Congratulations of your JOTW!!!
Well deserved might I add. You have a fascinating journal and seem like such a strong person!
Have a beautiful day!!!

Hello! Yes anyone can add me as a friend. I'm not sure how to spell Photosensitivic Epilepsy but I think either way we know what you're referring to. It's hard to hear nasty comments and to be able to laugh about them when they are about you. It means that you are a better person than they are for being the mature one. Though, it still can hurt but I don't dwell on it as I'm sure your husband doesn't either. Life is far too short as it is.

Jenn I just love the title of your Journal. It's eye-catching! Sorry I missed your Chat today!

What an amazing open person you are. I have health problems and have my own journal. Tag me your permission and I'll add you as a friend. Amazing blog keep up the good work. Bless you. xx

Christine, there is a product out there that will allow you to eliminate the use of the oxygen cannula are you aware of the product?

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I didn't know that. What is it?

Christine

When I first started using oxygen, just two months ago, I was terrified of going out in public, especially since I play in a swing band in regular performances in front of hundreds of people.

But I don't want to give up playing because of my health conditions, so I just swallowed my fear and showed up at rehearsal trailing my tank. After some concerned questions about my health, now the comments are mainly offering my O2 to the trumpet players after they run out of breath!

I've even performed four concerts and corporate gigs, with my tank discretely tucked away behind my chair. Even so, when folks notice, they're impressed that I continue to play, and it's been a source of new friends and inspiration.

The occasional stares don't matter when you have that.

BTW: I tried a headset cannula thingy. It works, but takes some getting used to (it's a lot more intrusive in my sight lines that a standard cannula, but can be a nice break). I felt it didn't quite deliver as much O2 directly into my nasal passages, so I needed a slightly higher flow rate. Here's a link. I purchased just one to try out for about $12.00.

http://www.travel-air-us.com/catalog/i25.html

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Gary,
Thank you for offering that link. I will surely check it out. I'm very happy that you got up the courage to face the public wearing your oxygen for the first time. I know how scary it can be but really, it's all in the attitude that you present to the people who are looking at you. And you obviously did a marvelous job at tackling those fears head on. Congratulations! I'm truly impressed with your continuence of playing your trumpet. As long as your doctor is ok with it... go for it! =o)

Thanks for posting!

Christine