Happy May! We are in the final stretch and summer vacation will be here before we know it. We have a lot of upcoming events, so please be sure to read the bulletin thoroughly for important information!

Memorial Day is upon us and, for many, it will be filled with outdoor get-togethers, deals at shopping centers, trips to favorite pre-vacation spots, or just time for a little solitude. As much as many of us are looking forward to the three-day weekend, we (i.e., the much greater "we" as a society) must not forget the purpose of the long weekend.

Each year, we honor members of the armed forces who, unfortunately, made the wrong step, took the wrong path, waited just a little longer or a little shorter than they should have, or sacrificed their own lives for others. It is an exceptionally challenging time for veterans and the families of loved ones who paid the ultimate sacrifice. These individuals fought for many of the freedoms that we have today and it is important that we remember them.

My father is a Vietnam Veteran and was a part of the 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team. For him, Memorial Day - and many, many other days throughout the year - is the day that he remembers his comrades from the team that he led through Vietnam. This includes, but is not limited to, Lieutenant Moulton, who lost his life a few moments after he and my father switched places.

On May 29th, while we should all certainly enjoy the warmer weather and opportunity to be with others, we can also do our part by taking the time to think about others' sacrifices and honor these individuals in our own way.

Westfield Middle School will hold its 54th remembrance assembly on Wednesday, May 24th at 9:00 a.m. All local veterans are welcome. Please RSVP to me via email.

As we begin to wrap up the school year, if you have any questions or need anything, please do not hesitate to contact me at jesse.mcmillan@schoolsofwestfield.org.

With appreciation,

Mr. McMillan

April showers bring May flowers and…ALLERGY & ASTHMA SEASON!

What are Allergies?

Allergies are an overreaction of your body’s immune system to a harmless natural substance (such as pollen or animal dander). Allergic reactions can affect the lungs (asthma), nose, eyes, skin and gastrointestinal tract. Common symptoms include: coughing, sneezing, itchy eyes, runny nose, and scratchy throat. Common allergens and irritants found in and around the home are pollen, dust mites, mold, insect droppings, pet dander, and secondhand smoke. Exposure to these allergens can even bring about a serious asthma attack.

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic disease due to inflammation of the airways in the lungs. Asthma episodes can be triggered by allergies, irritants and infections. When asthma flares up, the airways get narrow and produce excess mucus, which makes it hard to breathe. Symptoms include coughing, wheezing, tightness of the chest and shortness of breath. If not managed correctly, asthma can be life-threatening.

Learn How To Control Asthma Triggers

Common asthma triggers include inhaled allergens, irritants and viral infections. Because specific triggers can vary from person to person, it is important to work with a doctor to determine your triggers. Have an asthma action plan in place.

Indoor allergens (such as dust mites, pets, molds, mildew and pests) and outdoor allergens (pollens from trees, weeds and grasses and mold spores) are among the most common triggers of asthma. They can be controlled if you know how. (See tips, below.)

Dry wind, cold weather, humidity and sudden weather changes in the environment can trigger asthma symptoms in some people.

Here are some treatment tips during asthma/allergy season:

• Avoid allergens and keep house clean and free of pests

• Wash hands often, cover mouth when sneezing or coughing

• Change clothes when coming in from playing outdoors

• Use over the counter antihistamines and decongestants as directed

• Keep air filters changed and use air purifiers and clean air conditioners, avoid window fans that draw in outside air.

• Allergy testing and treatment by a doctor for persistent symptoms.

If your child has environmental allergies or asthma and is currently taking medication that may be needed during the school day, and the health office is unaware of the condition, please notify me at 572-4520.

~Nurse Crystal

https://www.bgcwestfield.org/