SNAP Benefit changes….Nov. 1st
Have you heard? SNAP a.k.a Supplemental Nutritonal Assistance Program will cease to exist as most have known it for years as of November 1st, 2025. New legislation will drastically reduce, if not completely eliminate benefits for countless recipients. The fact that these changes take effect in the month set aside to reflect, gather and give thanks is gut wrenching, but here we are. So—what can you do if you’re currently receiving benefits? If you are currently a recipient, my opinion—this is just an opinion—is to prepare yourself mentally and financially for the worst-case scenario. Reach out to a case manager/worker if you have one and express your concerns. Find out as much as possible in terms of what you should expect and if there will be any other assistance offered in place of this program. |
Cuts to programs such as SNAP always concern me as I think of those living with chronic illnesses that may not have a solid support system to fall back on. It’s hard but not impossible to insulate yourself—even just a little—by being proactive. While preparing for how this will all take shape, consider utilizing mobile pantries and drive thru distribution sites. As the Thanksgiving holiday quickly approaches, you want to be sure you’re registered and have your spot reserved ahead of the rush. If you still have credit available for this month, I suggest you make good use of it immediately. Long term staples that will last should be the focus—especially if you fall into one of the groups most likely to lose benefits completely. |
Lastly, please build your village. If you have friends, neighbors or loved ones that may be impacted by these cuts, please work together as much as possible. In some form or fashion all of us will be impacted but together, we can weather this storm. If you are chronically ill or disabled, please take action as quickly as possible. It’s no secret that everything is a bit more difficult when your mobility is challenged. Get ahead of the rush and get out of the way. Take stock of all the things you have versus what you need. Check your benefits across all programs, as nothing is guaranteed. Make sure whatever you’re entitled to receive that you get it, utilize it whatever that means for you. |
One thing there isn’t enough of at the moment is time. Do not wait until pantries and donation sites are overwhelmed to toss your name in the hat. Start searching right now. In addition to local churches, and resource centers, you can also log onto www.findhelp.org This portal is an excellent resource for a variety of services. You can easily filter by zip code and get a comprehensive list of what’s available (by category) in your area. Please exercise wisdom and take advantage of what you can before it’s too late. |
Set the Scene….
It is so easy to get overwhelmed as the holiday season approaches. The daily fatigue of Sjogren’s already makes menial and mundane tasks a heavy burden but add to that the stress of preparing to host friends and family and what you have is a recipe for disaster. All is not lost and there are some pretty simple measures that can help you get it all done, while protecting your peace and conserving some energy.
#Thanksgiving #holidays #lifestyle
Prepare Your Space: You know your casa better than anyone. Decide now which space(s) will be most comfortable and suitable for you to entertain and for how many guests. Everything should be prepared to your personal preference and comfort, not your guests. This is an area where many of us get into trouble. You are inviting them into your bubble, not the other way around.
Take Inventory: We often forget to check those cabinets and freezers before scurrying to buy everything we think we may need. Have a look in that freezer and see what you may already have that can be added to your menu. Again, this is about working in ways that are easiest on your body. Put your well-being first. Everything else will fall into place. As much as I love to cook, we all know that sometimes that’s just too draining. Before the rush begins, if it takes some pressure off, pick maybe one special dish you want to make and order the rest. There is no shortage of options. Check the catering menu of your favorite grocer or restaurant. They all offer meals, deals and bundles that will save you time, energy and money.
Enlist Help: You cannot and should not try to do everything on your own. If preparing for a larger crowd, assign each guests a task. Often times loved ones will say, what can I do or should I bring something? Yes, yes they should. Letting go is hard, but to save yourself from complete burnout, find something each person can contribute. This could be monetary, picking up a particular dish ahead of time or arriving earlier to assist with any last-minute setup.
The holidays are supposed to be a joyous, fun filled time. Don’t stress yourself out trying to appease everyone and do everything by yourself. Our bodies can no longer handle such tasks. Modify everything according to what is best for you. The last thing any of us needs is a flare during holiday season. Prepare now, protect your peace and enjoy spending time and making memories with your loved ones.
Natural Remedies…..
Lifestyle/Food
We all know how important adequate hydration is, especially when living with Sjogren’s disease. I thought if I’m drinking a few glasses of water each day, I should be fine. Wrong. Very wrong. When dealing with systemic inflammation within the body, it takes much more than H2o to maintain proper hydration. While beverages such as Gatorade and Pedialyte are staples I keep on hand, I began to crave something better—-more natural. This oh so easy recipe was just what I needed. I’m not a personal fan of coconut water and have found plain water to work just as well, the taste is simple and satisfying while the combination of these natural ingredients works to support muscle function (very necessary) and restore depleted minerals to the body. I love it and I think you will too. Drink up!
#recipe #food
In Case You Missed It….
Surviving Sjogren’s: Life Beyond the Diagnosis is available now on the Barnes and Noble website. www.bn.com
Share the Buzz Now!
This newsletter provides a springboard for better holistic health. Prioritizing yourself is a must—always.
By incorporating these tips and tricks into your routine, you can cultivate a vibrant and healthier, more balanced lifestyle.
Until next time :)