POST 1108; MAY 01, 2013; BELLINGHAM, WASHINGTON

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Today has become a super critical day...in that we have discovered a quick and easy way to obtain blood lab results...at no cost.

This morning, I set off at 7:00 am (31 F. Cold), walked over 20 miles on the Y Road route... counterclockwise ...which included many long steep hills.  I pushed as hard as possible, including up the hills, completing my walk at 12:15 pm (noon).

I immediately - within 5 minutes of the finish - checked in to the local Blood Bank, completing the paperwork and interview for donating blood...knowing that a blood test would be administered before being accepted to donate.

I was correct! 

My Hemoglobin count was - taken in less than 2 minutes - 13.6...near to perfect as it can get - according to the interviewing lab technician.  Therefore, my ANEMIA has been overcome...without the assistance or guidance of any medical "experts".  I have learned also that OXYGEN is equally important as nutrients to avoid anemia.

During my "weak period" walking two weeks ago, my lungs were constantly flooded with sinus drainage, not allowing for deep breaths...i.e., lack of oxygen.  At the same time, intestinal obstruction(s) blocked nutrients from entering red blood cells from the intestinal tract.

Combination of lack of oxygen and nutrients, resulted in lowering hemoglobin count to under 10.  Normal acceptable levels - for donating blood - is between 12.6 and 18. 
Understanding a bit more of how this stuff works, enables me to take precautionary measures while walking to preclude future anemia.

I am obtaining a "refill" of my heart medication...after which, I plan to fly back to Roanoke, Virginia...fetch SAM...and continue our walk to the Peace Arch, Blaine, Washington.

Since I walked the route in reverse, some new photographs presented themselves...

Britton Road looking South toward Whatcom Lake.

Britton Road - North Shore intersection.

A very wide load.

North Shore Road.

...and again

...and again

ALDER trees...the staple "firewood" in the Pacific Northwest.

Y Road...

...and again

A moss-covered apple tree...yet to bloom.

A Hot House...to get an early start for this year's veggies.

ALPACA...quite a number of Alpaca Ranches in the Pacific Northwest.

Better Days have been enjoyed...

Mount Baker Highway...about 6 miles distant from I-5 and my apartment.

This evening, I will join the local walking group for a moderate walk through the Whatcom Falls Loop.

Thank goodness I no longer must seek out a medical solution for anemia...be so pleased to get SAM and ME back on the road.