LEISURE ACTIVITIES

PLAY SAFELY

Some activities are riskier than we thought. New studies have shown that giant rollercoasters cause a form of brain damage called subdural hematoma. In a report published by the American Academy of Neurology, T. Fukutake, MD says that, "This type of ride induces up and down, to and fro, and rotary acceleration which ruptures blood vessels in the brain." The effect of a subdural hematoma is unrelieved and chronic headaches.

It’s always been pretty obvious that some sports are more dangerous than others. To find out about concussion and sports, check out http://al.com/sports/birmingham/Aug2000/7-e298770b1.html.

Vacations Are Good Too.........

If you aren’t working because of your injury, that doesn’t mean that you’re not entitled to a vacation. Plan one for yourself.

Do you like to travel? Check out:

*** Fodor’s Great American Vacations for Travelers with Disabilities - available at many libraries - if your library doesn’t have it ask them to get it from inter-library loan. This book covers the whole country and describes activities, lodging, accessibility and food for each area.

*** Handicapped Travel Club, 667 J Ave., Coronado, CA 92118 - phone 619-435-5213

If you don’t feel up to a big trip or lack the funds, remember that a vacation can be as short as a night away from home at a friend or relative’s house. An afternoon at the park can be a vacation. Any activity that makes you feel good and is a break from the daily routine can provide all the benefits of a longer, more elaborate vacation.

Revised: Saturday, February 23, 2002 08:42 AM