By Pamela D. Wilson, The Care Navigator, CSA, MS, BS/BA, CG

When I was a child, Valentine's Day was a significant day. My mom purchased the small box of cards that I would print for all of my classmates; especially the one boy who I hoped would like me. As I grew up, Valentine's Day continued to have special meaning. Flowers would (or would not) show up in the workplace, dinners would (or would not occur), I would (or would not) have a special person to acknowledge on this date. Then I began to realize that I didn't really need this date to do something special for someone, or for myself. I could recognize myself or others anytime during the year.

The one gift that I give myself the month of my birthday, which is August, is healthcare. But February, the month of cupid, would also be a good month to do this since winter seems to be a slower time of year. It's during the month of August that I schedule my annual physical, mammogram, dental exam and other healthcare checks as a gift to myself.

How many of us see people who don't take the time to care for their health until crises arises? We all know better but many of us also fall into this pattern because we are so very busy working or taking care of others that we neglect ourselves. How many of our loved ones or spouses would miss you if you were no longer here? Taking good care of ourselves is a gift to others – our children, friends, family, spouses and parents.

So, this year, give yourself the gift of health in the month of February or during your birthday month. Let this be the month that you show love for yourself and love for others by caring for your own health.

Copyright 2011 Pamela D. Wilson, All Rights Reserved.

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