Conference Online Q&A Chats

Traveling with PH and Houston Area Information
Transcript: 5/14/08

Moderator/Jennie (May 14, 2008 1:57:30 PM)
Welcome! This is Jennie Carman, PHA’s Meeting Planning Associate. I will be moderating today’s chat on the Travel and the Houston area at Conference. Today’s speakers will be Shirley Craig, Co-leader of the Houston area Support Group and Gerilynn Connors, RRT, from Inova Fairfax Hospital.

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 1:58:19 PM)
Hi, I am Shirley Craig, co-leader of the Houston PH Support Group. We are very excited to be hosting the 8th PHA Conferrence and are doing all we can to make everyone feel welcome and to have the best conference experience ever. Pleae be sure to let me know if you have any suggetions to make it better for attendees. I have attended 5 conferences over the past 12 years.

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 14, 2008 1:59:03 PM)
Welcome Mack! Good to "see you" again.

Mack (May 14, 2008 1:59:04 PM)
Howdy Ya'll Mack from AZ and the SG Leader for the Tri State Support Group for NV AZ and CA

Mack (May 14, 2008 1:59:40 PM)
Howdy Diane

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:00:21 PM)
I remember it this week :P

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 14, 2008 2:00:22 PM)
welcome jas and abbysmom!

Moderator/Jennie (May 14, 2008 2:00:38 PM)
We know that many attendees have quesitons about traveling to Houston and the area, so this is your chance to ask the experts!

jas (May 14, 2008 2:00:41 PM)
hello

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 14, 2008 2:00:42 PM)
jas, thanks for bumping the announcement about this chat on the boards today. :)

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:00:43 PM)
Hi, my name is Gerilynn Connors, I am an Respiratory Therapist at INOVA Fairfax, and a member of PH Resource Network

abbysmom (May 14, 2008 2:00:44 PM)
hello

jas (May 14, 2008 2:00:53 PM)
your welcome

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:01:01 PM)
Welcome to all, are you attending the conf. and do you have any questions about Houston?

Moderator/Jennie (May 14, 2008 2:02:22 PM)
Just a general reminder, that because this is a moderatered it may take a couple of mintues for your questions and the answers to appear. Thanks for bearing with us!

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 14, 2008 2:02:44 PM)
welcome margii and debbiewil! where are you both located? got questions about travel or Houston?

abbysmom (May 14, 2008 2:03:09 PM)
yes and yes. we are not staying at the hotel. will there be a place we can mix abby's flolan at the hotel somewhere?

Moderator/Jennie (May 14, 2008 2:03:10 PM)
There will be several lounge areas with chairs and tables, as well as a Freezer Ready room, with ice packs for everyone's use and tables and chairs. This may be a good place to mix the flolan.

debbiewil (May 14, 2008 2:03:46 PM)
Hi everyone. I'm in Frederick MD

margii (May 14, 2008 2:03:54 PM)
Hello I am in Cincinnati oh

margii (May 14, 2008 2:05:33 PM)
Yes I am planning on going to the conference,just trying to get all the inform,

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:06:00 PM)
How often does the shuttle run and cost also how far from the luggage area/terminal is it to where we get on the shuttle

Moderator/Jennie (May 14, 2008 2:06:00 PM)
The super shuttle is a great option for traveling to and from the airport. You can make indiviual reservations and it costs between $18 and $25 - depending on the airport. Because of legal concerns, PHA does not provide airport transportation.

jas (May 14, 2008 2:06:23 PM)
if our flight leaving is later in the day on sunday will be be able to store luggage

Moderator/Jennie (May 14, 2008 2:06:23 PM)
Yes, the hotel will be able to store your luggage. Ask at the front desk.

debbiewil (May 14, 2008 2:06:26 PM)
Yes, I plan on going to the conference.

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:07:02 PM)
You will find the shuttles located at the baggage area of the airport.

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 14, 2008 2:07:17 PM)
welcome Sheila. where are you located? ever been to a conference?

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 14, 2008 2:08:38 PM)
welcome to april63. where are you hailing from?

Sheila (May 14, 2008 2:08:40 PM)
Hi I am actually in the Houston greater area and I have never been to a conference.

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:08:54 PM)
Shuttle and taxi info is at the PHA conference website with phone and web info--if you reserve in advance, there is a discount and you should be able to find out the time.

april63 (May 14, 2008 2:08:59 PM)
I am from michigan

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:09:34 PM)
ty

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:09:51 PM)
For those of you who travel with oxygen, there are some new regulations you might be interested in

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:09:52 PM)
Oxygen patients will have easier travel, thanks to a new ruling by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) that says airlines must accept certain approved portable oxygen concentrators onboard flights.

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:10:19 PM)
. You can read the final rule at www.regulations.gov, docket number DOT-OST-2004-19482

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:10:24 PM)
just the Inogen right?

jas (May 14, 2008 2:10:55 PM)
how hot is it and is it hurricane season

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:10:55 PM)
June temoperatures can range from the mid-80s to the mid 90s. Hurricane season begins June 1; we usually get most storms after July but we have had some come early.

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:11:03 PM)
whats an average wait for the shuttle and how far is the walk to catch the shuttle from the baggae area?

Moderator/Jennie (May 14, 2008 2:11:03 PM)
That I'm not sure about. It would probably be best to contact super shuttle directly at (800) BLUE-VAN (800-258-3826).

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:11:09 PM)
Hi anyone there

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 14, 2008 2:11:11 PM)
welcome charsweb. ever been to a conference?

Sheila (May 14, 2008 2:11:14 PM)
Mack I think there is several on that list now.

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:11:21 PM)
No, the new rule, which airlines have one year to comply with, will have the AirSep Freestyle, AirSep Lifestyle, Inogen, Respironics Evergo and Sequal Eclipse

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:11:51 PM)
But again, they have one year to get all of those concentrators approved, because not all of them are right now

Moderator/Jennie (May 14, 2008 2:14:15 PM)
In the PHA office we have heard some concern about the heat in Houston in June. Though it will be hot, many attendees never leave the hotel during the three days - there is just so much going on! Another thing to remember is that the hotel will be heavily airconditioned, so while it is hot outside it will be quite cold inside. It would be a good idea to pack a sweater or sweatshirt.

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:14:19 PM)
This is my first conference

Moderator/Jennie (May 14, 2008 2:15:01 PM)
Great! We are glad to have so many first-time attendees at Conference this year.

margii (May 14, 2008 2:15:28 PM)
This will be my first also

jas (May 14, 2008 2:15:48 PM)
i have never been to houston what kind of weather can i expect?

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:15:48 PM)
Weather can be hot and humid--it can also be very comfortable. Please jkeep in mind that the hotel and shuttles and cabs are air conditioned. Houston is probably the most air conditioned city in the world. Most attendes don't have tim e to leave the hotel; however, I know lots of people like to get out and are able. Bring comfortable loose fittleng clothing and a small fan that will fit in your bag and keep hydrated. Many PHers live here in Houston with no problems. I stay in on the hottest days.

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:16:16 PM)
I am looking forward to meeting everyone

Moderator/Jennie (May 14, 2008 2:16:16 PM)
If you can, be sure to join us for next week's chat - First Time Attendees.

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:16:18 PM)
I am flying into the Bush International how long will it take to get to the Hilton

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:16:18 PM)
It will be about a 30 minute ride from Bush to the hotel.

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:16:44 PM)
k but it is still a nuicance to travel with O2 found out that last fall, U can reserve a wc if u need one there waiting for you Hopefully no garantine, i had some one grab the one I had reserve, tough walking a terminal, I learn a thing or too, Don't forget all you have to have your Doc sign papers for u can have the O2, there r forms to fill out

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:16:44 PM)
You will not be allowed to use your own oxygen tanks during flight. Instead, most airlines provide you with oxygen for an extra fee. Charges range from $50 to $150 for each leg of your trip. Some international carriers require you to purchase an extra seat instead. And remember that your insurance may not pay for in-flight oxygen.

Sheila (May 14, 2008 2:16:44 PM)
If it is okay I would like to say that when others were complaining about the Texas heat and that the conference should be held some where else. I tried to explain to them that yes we have hot summers but June is one of our better months. I know I have been to other states in June and thought I would pass out due to the heat.

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:16:54 PM)
I will try to be on the chat next week

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:17:09 PM)
Diane u need to add a spell checker to this thing lol specially for me

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:17:11 PM)
More information can be found on http://www.breathineasy.com/tips_air.asp

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:17:24 PM)
How often does the shuttle run and cost also how far from the luggage area/terminal is it to where we get on the shuttle

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:17:24 PM)
Use the info at the website and contact SuperShuttle--it is my impression after meeting with them a few weeks ago that the shuttles will be just outside the baggage area in the drive through parking.

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:18:17 PM)
Hi Mack are you going to the conference?

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:19:47 PM)
not only do the charge a $100 per lag u are also charged an adiitional $100 to have O2 in the terminal, you can't bring in your own portable 02, only ones they allow is a machine like the Inogen Portable Concentrator

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:19:50 PM)
Yes Char I am going

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:20:05 PM)
Remember to make sure you have all of your prescriptions, for oxygen as well as other medications, and be sure to bring a copy of your presecriptions. We also encourage patients to travel with the typical medicines for an upset stomach, a headache, and medications to help with pressure in the cabins. Speak to your doctor now, and they may have advice.

Sheila (May 14, 2008 2:20:13 PM)
Mack where you get a shuttle is right outside the door of the baggage area. Depending on which terminal you are in as to how much of a walk, but usually it is not that horrible.

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:20:14 PM)
Hi, guys. Sorry I'm late.

april63 (May 14, 2008 2:20:18 PM)
This is my first conference and we are arriving on Thursday evening. Are there places close by that are inexpensive for food - since from what I can see there is no meals provided until Friday dinner.

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:20:18 PM)
There are several restaurants in the hotel though some are expensive--but plenty in the area. You can pay $6 for a taxi that wil ltake you anywhere within the downtown area with lots of places to chose from. Just across the street is a wonderful park with various types of restaurants. We will have more info on this so look for the info table at conf before you head out.

Moderator/Jennie (May 14, 2008 2:21:00 PM)
There is a food court about two blocks away from the hotel, and the Hilton has complimentary shuttles that will take you there. PHA is also looking into rent of their shuttle specfically for conference attendees Friday at lunch time, but this is not defintite yet.

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:21:04 PM)
good looking forward to meeting you and your wife.

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:21:06 PM)
I'm going in on thurs. as well. Maybe some of us can get together.

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 14, 2008 2:21:07 PM)
welcome meg is SC! where are you located? got questions?

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:21:20 PM)
Mack, we have had patients with their oxygen carrier, one of the big national companies, meet them at the airport to provide the oxygen until they get on the plane. I haven't heard that this isn't allowed.

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:21:33 PM)
I will be arriving on Thrusday afternoon

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:21:42 PM)
I'm in spartanburg, SC. I'm the upstate suppport group leader.

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:21:54 PM)
my Ph Doc is having me on an additional Litter of O2 to fly on the script, u may want to ask your Doc if u need to be on a higher lpm on a flight

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:22:23 PM)
So far I am not on oxygen

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:22:31 PM)
Any info on casinos in the area?

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:22:31 PM)
You will have to go to Louisiana if you want to visit a casino--no gambling in Texas other than lottery tickets.

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:22:51 PM)
Aww

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:22:53 PM)
Its common that a doctor will have to prescribe a higher liter flow than what's given at sea level

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:23:17 PM)
Since I measured 93 on room air, my dr. is going to let me fly without oxygen.

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:23:22 PM)
Can you tell I like to go to casinos?

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:24:02 PM)
Also, I watch Animal Cops Houston on Animal Planet. Maybe I will see some of those folks.

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:24:29 PM)
That would be neat

jas (May 14, 2008 2:24:48 PM)
i'm on o2 at night but since my sitting is at 95-99 i also dont fly with o2

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:26:16 PM)
Gerilyn that is what happened to us last fall, couldn't bring r own O2 tank past the check secuirty point, they have no way of knowing if your tank is safe that is why a O2 company has to meet you there with there tanks, We just avoided that hassle by renting an Inogen, it was much cheaper, FYI APRIA now does carry Inogen, at least r area does

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:26:16 PM)
That sounds reasonable to do have the company meet you and do it with the Inogen, if it is the security that you are hitting up against

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:26:18 PM)
thx shelia about the info on the walk

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:26:26 PM)
And when I get there, you guys will all be looking for a goofy duck. I promise my sense of humor is that good, but maybe I won't look so goofy

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:26:33 PM)
How much walking is there in the hotel? And do we have any help getting luggage to our rooms.

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:26:33 PM)
It is a big hotel--if you hve issues with walking too far, you may want to consider renting an electric cart just conserve your energy. Hotel staff will help with luggage--they seem very efficient.

Moderator/Jennie (May 14, 2008 2:27:07 PM)
PHA will brief the hotel staff on the special needs of our group, so they will be aware. Also extra chairs are being placed near elevators on the meeting floors and in other locations in case someone needs to take a break.

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:27:36 PM)
I just started on Revatio Just went into full Ph since RHC 3/26

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:27:37 PM)
Are you also on oxygen?

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:27:41 PM)
That is a very good idea

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:28:11 PM)
No sats are 98 last check

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:28:15 PM)
Char we will have the conference here next lol Lauglin is right across the river, a dozen casions 5 miles away :-) the Colorado Rive is only a 1/4 mile from the house

jas (May 14, 2008 2:28:40 PM)
my o2 company here in canada just recently got portable o2 theytold me eclipse they just have 3

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:29:30 PM)
I have had diastolic dysfunction but Atacand appears to have that under controll

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:29:30 PM)
Yea that's what I need a good break! LOL

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:29:38 PM)
My o2 company is shipping my stuff out to the hotel early that week. I'll have to really reswt when I arrive

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:29:53 PM)
I hope we get to see all of the early arrivers at the Meet and Greet at 7 p.m. Thursday night--there will be light refreshments and lots of good company with the Houston PHSG and many PHA staff and board attending--a great chance to make early connections!

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:29:57 PM)
I meant rest.

Sheila (May 14, 2008 2:30:23 PM)
Jas if you are planning on getting it to use at night, you need to rent it for about a week ahead of time to make sure you do okay with it. Since I believe it delivers pulse dose only

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:30:39 PM)
For some reason I knew what you meant!

jas (May 14, 2008 2:31:20 PM)
last time for hawaii i got a concentrator delivered

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:31:26 PM)
Jas just at least you get that good Canadian Tea through Customs thats all that matters :-0

jas (May 14, 2008 2:31:38 PM)
i have it mack

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:31:50 PM)
:-)

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:31:51 PM)
rember Sat's arn't everything it is also to relax you heart muscle thats pumping hard and not getting the O2 like it should

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:31:52 PM)
The oxygen prescription the doctor puts the patient on is determined by oxygen saturation, and/or inarterial blood gas. And yes, oxygen benefits all the muscles in the body, including the heart

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:31:56 PM)
What kind of tea?

jas (May 14, 2008 2:32:22 PM)
he wanted canadian tea red rose

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:32:46 PM)
Do we get Texas barbecue while we are there?

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:32:46 PM)
I don't know--it is one of my favorites. I am not in charge of food and PHA tries to keep us all healthy for the duration--but I have always enjoyed the meals at conference. Just to be able to sit and relax and have someone serve me is a treat!

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:33:25 PM)
IS that a good kind of tea?

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:33:26 PM)
I love the red rose tea here is it similar?

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:33:27 PM)
Canada has a better grade of Tea then in the States, doesn't matter on brand all of it is better

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:33:29 PM)
Hey, that is soooo true!

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:33:31 PM)
I love barbecue

margii (May 14, 2008 2:33:35 PM)
I heard that Shirley

Moderator/Jennie (May 14, 2008 2:33:54 PM)
Also, just a reminder. As you are registering for Conference and making your hotel reservations please remember to tell both PHA and the Hilton if you will need a fridge in your room for Flolan or Remodulin. They are not in very room, and PHA will be ordering fridge's based on the count we've received through registration.

jas (May 14, 2008 2:34:27 PM)
i actually do well in heat i just wanted to know casue of what to bring wear etc

jas (May 14, 2008 2:34:29 PM)
mack is there a problem with tea at customs?

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:34:31 PM)
Don't need that yet!

jas (May 14, 2008 2:34:33 PM)
dont get me in trouble

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:34:38 PM)
HEY, MAYBE THAT CAN BE OUR MEAL on Thurs. evening.

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:34:38 PM)
Maybe--but I did say light refreshments. I always bring snacks to conf just for those lag times to get me through. Think about packing some of those cheese or peanut butter cracker combinations or a few apples or peanuts in your luggage just to tide you over.

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:34:39 PM)
I'm only on Revatio, so I won;t need a fridge. I

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:34:51 PM)
shouldn't be Jas

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:34:58 PM)
I do sleep with the Head of the bed elevated 6 inches for regurg

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:35:49 PM)
we will make a cup when we get together and sing "Oh Canada " :-) lol

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:35:51 PM)
In terms of heat, certain individuals will have increased shortness of breath, with increased heat and humidity and this is very personal. Try not to go from extreme temperatures quickly, so if the Conference room is very cold because of AC, don't go directly outside, walk into a lobby area where it might be a little warmer

Sheila (May 14, 2008 2:36:01 PM)
There are lots of barbeque places to eat in and around the Houston area.

jas (May 14, 2008 2:36:03 PM)
i dont drink tea

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:36:07 PM)
Its the drastic change that can cause real shortness of breath

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:36:37 PM)
brb Mrs wants to see what we had to say she is reading then may have a ?

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:36:43 PM)
meg do you get muscle joint pain with your revatio?

jas (May 14, 2008 2:36:45 PM)
oh ok

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:36:55 PM)
Houston is a great town--very international with a lot to do in the downtown area. If you do like to get outside--be sure to bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent.

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:37:25 PM)
Sorry, had to go and chase a dog. Actually just call him to the door.

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:37:34 PM)
Do we get Texas barbecue while we are there?

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:37:34 PM)
I don't know of any barbecure spots in the downtown area but our group will certainly check.

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:37:40 PM)
80 degrees and i start panting

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:37:56 PM)
Yes, I do get joint and muscle pain. Sometimes it is hard to put up with.

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:38:27 PM)
every place that is sore or arthritic kills me

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:38:38 PM)
Remember if you use oxygen or another medication at home, then it is expected that you will use it when you travel. If you don't use it when you need it, it puts added strain on the right heart.

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:38:43 PM)
cold damp days hurt

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:39:18 PM)
hi all, this is Mary, Mack's BETTER half!

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:39:20 PM)
I know about sore. And when the weathwer is changing it bothers me more.

Sheila (May 14, 2008 2:39:22 PM)
I know there is a bbq place that is not far as long as you are driving but it definitely is not walking distance.

jas (May 14, 2008 2:39:27 PM)
mosquito's?

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:39:27 PM)
It is the south and we are a humid city but the city does an excellent job of control. It is just a good idea to have some on hand if you like to be out a lot.

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:39:29 PM)
I take Darvocet for neck pain 3 herniated disc ther

Moderator/Jennie (May 14, 2008 2:40:16 PM)
As past attendees know, Conference can be busy and tiring. With the additional strain of travel it is important for patients to go easy on yourself, plan plently of time during layovers to rest, call ahead of time for gate to gate transportation if needed and make sure to get plently of rest in the days leading up to Conference.

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:40:19 PM)
now shoulder joints hurt

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:40:22 PM)
I take Darvocet as well. it's all I can take for the pain. Once in a while, tylenol will help.

margii (May 14, 2008 2:40:23 PM)
cold damp days are my worst too

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:40:52 PM)
Darvocet is barely working now

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:41:00 PM)
How far away is the Galleria Mall? Or is that the best one?

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:41:00 PM)
The Galleria is a great place to shop but it is not within walking distance at all--about 10 miles maybe. However, Yellow Cab will take you over--we will have a price range on that at the Info Table. There is also great shopping in the downtown area.

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:41:02 PM)
You All don't know what summer weather is, average summer temp here is 120 to 130, only difference nu humidity

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:41:07 PM)
I have wheelchair arrangements already made for gate to gate

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 14, 2008 2:41:22 PM)
Shirley, i'm sure the local restaurants would be willing to provide menus for people to look at for your welcome table.

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:41:22 PM)
We will do our best to have some on hand for the nearest restaurants.

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:41:24 PM)
Yes, remember to pace yourself, and don't over do it. This is very important. So to begin with, you should be packing your suitcase a week before you are leaving

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:41:39 PM)
Just had a noreastner with cold and rain come through and I was done for

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:41:54 PM)
Don't wait until the last minute, take care of your travel arrangements ahead of time. The day before you are flying should be a day of rest, rather than running around trying to get things done

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:41:57 PM)
I thought about starting next week.

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:42:05 PM)
Thats a great plan, meg

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:42:29 PM)
Another thing is that you may not be able to get to every lecture that you want, you have to read your body. Even though you arrived at Conference, you also have to be able to get home safely/

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:42:58 PM)
Sheila--we would love to see you at our SG meetings. We will meet this Saturday at 11 am at Kelsey Seybold--2727 W. Holcombe--and will be discussing the conference.

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:43:29 PM)
Another difficult thing about travel is staying on schedule with your medications. You really have to plan Conference days with medications in mind.

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:43:29 PM)
I have just been getting some energy back still only walking 1200 ft a day

Moderator/Jennie (May 14, 2008 2:44:06 PM)
Another good idea is to pack all your medication in your carry-on bag, just in case.

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:44:11 PM)
my daughter set my cell phone to alarm when it is time for my meds

jas (May 14, 2008 2:44:14 PM)
yes and with time change

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:44:23 PM)
Tell us more about the pool on the 24th floor

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:44:23 PM)
It is beautiful and accessed with your room key--glass windows all around with great views of the Houston skyline--longer than wide. Should be fun.

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:44:26 PM)
does anyone have any questions about O2 during travel? Mack and I just traveled in October and I can tell you what a pain in the neck it really was!

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:44:31 PM)
I usually set my reminder on my cell phone so that I will remember to take my meds

Sheila (May 14, 2008 2:44:38 PM)
Shirley, unfortunately I have not been able to attend the meetings. I am not able to drive that far anymore and I never know from one day to the next how good I will feel.

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:44:41 PM)
I put my meds in my bag with my C-Pap to carry on

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:45:10 PM)
good idea, always bring your meds carryon

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:45:12 PM)
If you have liquid medications, make sure you have a letter from your doctor about the medications

jas (May 14, 2008 2:45:22 PM)
and make sure tooth brush and extra clothes i arrived in minneapolis with meds only and a lost suitcase

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:45:40 PM)
yes, that too gerilynn

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:45:48 PM)
I have never lost a bag

jas (May 14, 2008 2:46:02 PM)
the suitcase that arrived of moine had a stack of ph ways

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:46:13 PM)
I am Mack's very private nurse

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 14, 2008 2:46:21 PM)
One tip for the CPAP and any other equipment security checks, ask them to use a new cloth to rub over it. A security guy suggested that I do that in the future for my CPAP.

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:46:22 PM)
Email me at rscraig.ph@sbcglobal.net if you would like to be on our email list for updates--you will get a couple of emails a month and your email is known only to me and you can be removed whenever you ask.

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:46:33 PM)
He's lucky to have you

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:46:44 PM)
Anyone flying US airways? Can you have a backpack under the seat and a purse as well as a carry-on bag?

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:46:52 PM)
Also remember, that the airline terminals can be long walks- take advantage of wheelchair assistance

margii (May 14, 2008 2:46:56 PM)
I am reading about the 02 now, and it seems like it is going to be hectic,I am on most of the time,unless things change before june

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:47:33 PM)
Its not hectic, it just takes extra planning, but people can travel and enjoy themselves on the medication oxygen

Moderator/Jennie (May 14, 2008 2:47:55 PM)
Meg, I would check with US Airways. I believe you can have a purse and a carry on but it depends on the airline and the regulations are always changing.

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:47:59 PM)
I am flying from NJ on Continntal

Sheila (May 14, 2008 2:48:03 PM)
I am already on it Shirley. Angie and I have talked several times through email. LOL

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:48:07 PM)
I have a private nurse named Landon, but he won't be travelling with me.

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:48:43 PM)
I am flying with Margie another Phr in my support group

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 14, 2008 2:48:48 PM)
I agree with Gerilynn. My best suggestion for the O2 is to call ahead to the airports and airlines with your specific needs to make sure you have everything you need. And talk to your doctor first about any special needs for the trip.

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:49:02 PM)
meg, make sure YOU get the wheelchair, other people will try to take your allotted chair and the skycaps really don't check or know the difference

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:49:02 PM)
It is a good idea to check with the stewards a few minutes before landing so that they know you need a wheelchair and will help look out for you--just don't leave the plane until you have one and they will move pretty fast. I am on 02 24/7 and really can't move around anymore without it so I don't take any chances.

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:49:39 PM)
Thats a very good suggestions ShirleyCraig!

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:49:52 PM)
Thanks, Mack.

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:50:31 PM)
If any of you are concerned about heat, I have had patients use hand-operated fans to get air moving, if you go outside that might be helpful

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:50:38 PM)
I will be having a check up soon so I will know what my sats are running. Nails still pink!

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:50:51 PM)
Delta harassed Mack about the Inogen concentrator because it wouldn't fit UNDERthe seat,

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:51:16 PM)
I had a check up today, and room air sats were 98! Without oxygen!

jas (May 14, 2008 2:51:24 PM)
wow

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:51:25 PM)
You said there was a food court nearby the Hilton. Are there any shops inside the hotel?

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:51:25 PM)
I know I saw some when I was there but I think they were just selling souvenir type items. There may have been more but I just wasn't paying attention to that--sorry.

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:51:40 PM)
That is what mine have been

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:51:57 PM)
I know my family will want something from there.

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:52:00 PM)
Mack, what was the final outcome with the Inogen, did they allow it?

jas (May 14, 2008 2:52:09 PM)
my o2 company is at lunch i just called i always get my levels checked before travelling

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:52:27 PM)
yes they had to because it was O2

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 14, 2008 2:52:38 PM)
I second the motion on the wheelchair about getting it yourself (in other words having someone get it for you), not just because it could be given to someone else, but it's going to take longer as you find someone who can get it for you then go get it along with the other duties they're trying to do. I'm having flashbacks to my friend Roz running through an airport to the other terminal with me so we could catch a flight (obviously we didn't plan ahead).

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:52:45 PM)
I see Dr. Sulica and somehow my insurance got dropped by tem so they are getting an ok for me to see her.

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:53:09 PM)
Jas, thats good, your doctor will always keep in mind that the cabin is pressurized 5-8,000 feet, so everyone's oxygen level will be a little bit lower on an airplane than at sea level

Moderator/Jennie (May 14, 2008 2:53:20 PM)
Ok folks, there is about 5 mintues left in the chat. Anymore travel, hotel or Houston area questions for our speakers - Shirley and Gerilynn?

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:53:23 PM)
I have to have an endoscopy June 5th.

margii (May 14, 2008 2:53:26 PM)
Yes my nurse spoke to me yesterday, and said they will fill out all papers and do all that I need they are going to be there as well

Sheila (May 14, 2008 2:53:40 PM)
Meg there is a huge convention center and 2 major Arenas near there. So I am sure you can find a souvenior that you like.

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:54:15 PM)
I am a greenhorn traveler. I've never been west of the Mississippi.

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:55:02 PM)
if you plan ahead and tell the airline when you check in and at boarding and during the flight, they will have a wc waiting for you at the other end most of the time

meg in SC (May 14, 2008 2:55:03 PM)
Thanks for all the info.

jas (May 14, 2008 2:55:22 PM)
thank you

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:55:23 PM)
No questions Thanks for all the info

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:55:25 PM)
You may email me at rscraig.ph@sbcglobal.net if you have further questions about being in Houston--I will do my best to answer you as well as I can.

Moderator/Jennie (May 14, 2008 2:55:35 PM)
Thank you for joining us today! More travel tips and Houston info can be found on the Conference website at http://www.phassociation.org/Conference/2008/TravelAreaAttractions.asp.

Moderator/Jennie (May 14, 2008 2:55:47 PM)
The transcript for today’s chat will be available online here, http://www.phassociation.org/Conference/2008/chats/#travel.

Moderator/Jennie (May 14, 2008 2:56:07 PM)
Remember to join us each Wednesday in May at 2pm for a different Conference focused chat. May 21 – First-time Attendees, May 28 – Pediatrics and Children’s Activities

jas (May 14, 2008 2:56:15 PM)
bye time for meds

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 14, 2008 2:56:29 PM)
Thanks, everyone! Great questions & great info!

charsweb (May 14, 2008 2:56:30 PM)
bye take care

ShirleyCraig (May 14, 2008 2:56:33 PM)
Great, thank you everyone for your questions and moderators for your help. Shirley in Houston

Sheila (May 14, 2008 2:57:04 PM)
thanks for your help. Shirley I wiill try to get to meeting one day

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:57:52 PM)
we have also reserved a regular concentrator and bottles throiugh our provider for the hotel. We are able to do this along with the portale concentrator for no extra charge from out insurance because of the CPAP

Moderator/Jennie (May 14, 2008 2:58:25 PM)
Thanks everyone for joining us, and I hope this helped to answer some of your questions!

margii (May 14, 2008 2:58:34 PM)
Thanks for all the information

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:58:43 PM)
ty

Mack (May 14, 2008 2:58:53 PM)
ttyl

Sheila (May 14, 2008 2:58:54 PM)
bye

margii (May 14, 2008 2:59:30 PM)
Bye bye all Take care

GerilynnConnors (May 14, 2008 2:59:56 PM)
Thanks for all your great questions, everyone! See you in Houston!