I am happy to report that our family made it through the hurricane with little to no damage. Having MCTD and a dog sort of forced us to stay in our apartment. So, to give you guidance, I am going to share my preparations, what I did during and what I am doing now while waiting to return to work.
Preparation-
- Gathered all medication in one area. I put all extra stock of medication in a rolling suitcase in case we had to leave.
- Placed all important documents in the same area as medication next to an empty sterlite container.
- Filled all containers I could with filtered and tap water.
- I even made some sun tea should we lose electricity.
- Charged up all batteries for all electronics and medical equipment.
- Made sure everyone was clean before high winds hit.
- Had a contingency plan on how to use portable oxygen concentrator in the event of loss of power. I figured I could use it as a minimum of two hours a night for a week (about 13 hours of battery) until we got power or I could charge it at someone’s residence.
- Made food for my specific diet that could be eaten cold.
During-
- Made sure to keep regular sleeping hours. This storm was over two days long.
- Keep exercising. I did yoga every morning at my normal times. I had memorized the moves due to consistent practice. Played chase with the dog.
- Had coloring books, crafts, books and knitting ready in case of loss of power. I actually did a cross stitch piece when bored and lost internet.
- Kept electricity use to a minimum.
- I did use my oxygen during the night as prescribed. I am grateful that we did not lose power.
After-
- Unpacked all medications and put paperwork back.
- Checked the apartment for damage, threw out garbage from two days being inside.
- Continued yoga, Reiki and Bible reading.
- Go outside and enjoy the sun.
- Made food for meals and lunches for work.
- Try to avoid driving around since limited gas for a while.
I have to admit that Daisy has enjoyed me being home these days. Personally, I was ready to return to work a day after the storm was done. But, I am one of the few with power and no children to worry about.
In the mean time, I am playing games and doing jigsaw puzzles on the computer (we didn’t lose internet either.)
I hope this helps. Again I am so grateful that the storm avoided us. I was prepared in the event it did hit us.
The biggest tip I have to give you regarding seasonal natural disasters like hurricanes, typhoons, blizzards, etc. is to have the necessary supplies at the beginning of the season. It was nice to know that we already had a case of bottled water and canned food to last a week or more. I bought those at the beginning of the season with my first paycheck in June.
I know God was the one who protected us. Due to that end, those that live in the building with me were also blessed. The surrounding buildings had all lost power.
I will confess that I did break down and cry before the storm hit because of stress. Before the storm, I did notice that my coughing did get worse two days before the storm, then returned to normal once it hit.
I never stopped believing that God would provide for me no matter what the circumstance.