#Bangladesh best pain hospital

[suoxi-hospital]

Acupuncture treatment is not behind in Bangladesh like developed countries. Acupuncture treatment is provided by a group of experienced acupuncturists at SUO XI Hospital located in Shantinagar Crossroads, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Along with acupuncture treatment, CVFT and OZONE therapy treatments can help relieve anxiety. Apart from this, maintaining a regular lifestyle is an important part of disease prevention.

Acupuncture treatment is given here under the leadership of renowned acupuncturist Dr. S.M. Shahidul Islam. Today’s era is data-driven and science is reliable. So Dr. S.M. Shahidul Islam, an expert in this age of science, has a long experience. A new horizon of acupuncture was opened by his hands. Acupuncture is now a widely used treatment method in Bangladesh. His long-standing acupuncture practice and skillful methods have been serving patients for a long time.

[rianafying]

i’m having a really bad day emotionally. idk if it’s my period hormones or bpd but i’m just in a really sucky mood today. yesterday i recovered from one illness that i had since late jan. i’ve been desperately waiting to feel better and this morning i woke up with another kind of illness. and i’m doing my best to recover from this as well. and something triggered my abandonment response and im just having a really really hard time right now. and i can’t even freely talk about it to anyone or even write about it in my journal. i’m just. so sad right now. i’m not abandoned but i feel that way. i have been feeling abandoned for a while now and a small thing that happened last night really amped it up. then this morning i woke up with a crazy amount of physical pain and fever from said illness and im also severely dehydrated because i have been too upset to drink water so i’ve been forcing myself to drink lots of water all day. and had to take painkillers and sleep the fever off. all by myself. i hate being by myself. but it was worse when i was living with family back in bangladesh. somehow i felt even lonelier and more horrible there. lately i’ve had very little hope about myself and my future. i’m just going through a rough time mentally. so are my loved ones. i’m sobbing as i’m writing about this. this isn’t even bad. like it’s just my mental illness over reacting and my hormones possibly amplifying the negative emotions. but nothing terrible has actually happened it’s just that i wanted something and i can’t have it and even in my dreams, my desires plague me. it all sounds vague but that’s on purpose because i can’t openly talk about it. even when faced with much greater difficulty, i have handled things better but right now even though it’s not actually that bad, i feel exceptionally sad. i did my groceries. made the right decisions. i literally did my very fucking best today. and yet i feel nothing but awful awful awful. even some self hatred and self pity. i’m having a hard time trying to logic myself out of this one. maybe it just needs some time. the problem is that i don’t have all that much time to give. i have a class early tomorrow and it’s one of those classes that i really have to participate in and even though i normally look forward to this class, im dreading it right now. i dont have the energy to learn a whole bunch of things right now. and my friends invited me for drinks after classes, which is great but sucks because i literally have 5$ in my bank account to last me the whole week, and today was just monday. idk how this happened. actually i know exactly how this happened, i paid of my medical bills when i got paid this weekend. that’s why i have nothing left. but it’s a big relief. that i have paid off all my hospital debt. it’s a huge deal. and it’s done. now temporarily i’ll struggle a little but it’ll be okay soon. also it was just 11:11pm and i made a good wish. i’m going to try my best to bring it to fruition. rn im still a bit sick, and im not gonna beat myself up for having a bad couple of days. i know im doing my best. my best is not as good as other people’s but it’s mine. and i am choosing to go easy on myself. i’m feeling a fever coming back. the plan for the rest of the night is to maybe rest till my fever goes away. then watch the movies i downloaded w the library wifi, because guess what, i didn’t have money to get wifi this month. so i barely use my data and i try to download as much as i can at uni and at the library. it has been kind of good for me. to be off the internet mostly. this reminds me i should deactivate my instagram soon. idc if i loose my work flow. or maybe try to find balance between life offline and online. after i’m done resting and my fever subsides, ill boil some eggs and what not. i deserve to eat well. nvm im back to crying in my fetal position. oh god i feel so bad. i feel so bad right now. i can’t do anything about this. and the things that i can fix, i don’t. this is literally my life. crying about things i can’t control and ignoring the things i can control

this is the worst i have felt in 2024 so far. i’m so sad that it’s giving me a headache. i’m so disoriented and confused and tired and sad i don’t wanna do anything. i’m depressed as fuck. why does this happen to me. oh god i let a couple of hours pass, and i’m doing a little bit better. this is so stupid.

[diseasewithtreatment]

The safest pain reliever for seniors generally depends on the individual’s overall health, existing medical conditions, and any medications they are currently taking. However, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is often considered one of the safest options for managing pain in seniors because it has a lower risk of causing gastrointestinal bleeding and other side effects compared to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or aspirin.

Considerations for Pain Relief in Seniors

Acetaminophen:

Pros: Generally well-tolerated, low risk of gastrointestinal issues.

Cons: Must be used within the recommended dosage to avoid liver damage.

NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Naproxen):

Pros: Effective for reducing inflammation and pain.

Cons: Higher risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney damage, and cardiovascular issues, especially with long-term use.

Topical Analgesics:

Pros: Lower risk of systemic side effects.

Cons: May not be as effective for deep or severe pain.

Opioids:

Pros: Effective for severe pain.

Cons: Risk of dependency, sedation, constipation, and other side effects. Generally used as a last resort.

Top Doctors in Bangladesh for Geriatric Care

Consulting with a healthcare professional specializing in geriatric care can ensure the most appropriate pain management strategy for seniors. Here are some top doctors in Bangladesh for geriatric care:

Prof. Dr. Mahbub H Khan

Specialty: Geriatric Medicine

Affiliation: United Hospital, Dhaka

Profile: Known for his expertise in managing health issues in seniors, including pain management.

Dr. Samanta Lal Sen

Specialty: Geriatric Medicine

Affiliation: Popular Diagnostic Centre, Dhaka

Profile: Experienced in providing comprehensive care for elderly patients.

Prof. Dr. Mirza Mohammad Hossain

Specialty: Internal Medicine with a focus on Geriatrics

Affiliation: Apollo Hospitals Dhaka

Profile: Renowned for his work with senior patients and effective pain management strategies.

Dr. Tareq Aziz

Specialty: Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care

Affiliation: Square Hospital, Dhaka

Profile: Known for his patient-centric approach to managing pain and other health issues in seniors.

For a personalized and safe pain management plan, it’s crucial to consult with the best doctor in Bangladesh who can consider the senior's specific health conditions and needs.

[indiamedicaltourism]

Hip Replacement Surgery India

Hip replacement surgery is a medical procedure in which a damaged part of the hip joint is surgically removed and then replaced by prostheses. The prosthesis is an artificial joint made of metal, hard plastic, and ceramics. Total hip arthroplasty is done to reduce chronic pain and improve mobility in the hip region. The most common reason to get hip replacement surgery is arthritis and insufferable pain. This surgery can be beneficial for people with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteonecrosis. This article explores hip replacement surgery costs, the best hip replacement surgery hospitals, and the top hip replacement surgeons in India.

Hip Replacement Surgery Cost in India

Hip replacement surgery cost in India ranges between US$3500 and US$15000 depending upon various factors. This includes the location and reputation of the hospital, and the severity of the damage. A unilateral hip replacement costs US$4000 to US$6000 and a bilateral hip replacement costs US$9000 to US$12000 in India. The price of hip replacement surgery in India is affordable and low cost while being extremely successful. This makes hip replacement surgery in India an ideal option for international patients.

Best Hip Replacement Surgery Hospitals in India

India has many hip replacement surgery hospitals with esteemed orthopedic surgeons. The orthopedic hospitals in India provide excellent healthcare facilities, world-class orthopedic surgeons, and state-of-the-art equipment. The best hip replacement surgery hospitals in India offer outstanding services to foreign patients. Here’s a list of some of the best hip replacement surgery hospitals in India:

Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, Delhi

Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon

BLK Max Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi

Fortis Malar Hospital, Chennai

Apollo Hospital, Hyderabad

Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mumbai

Medanta The Medicity, Gurgaon

Top Hip Replacement Surgeons in India

There are several award-winning hip replacement surgeons in India. The medical consultants at Al Afiya Medi Tour can help you find highly experienced and skilled orthopedic surgeons to get the best results. If you are looking to get your hip arthroplasty, here are the top five hip replacement surgeons in India:

Dr. Harshavardhan Hegde - MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics), MCh (Orthopaedics)

Dr. Vijay C. Bose - MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics), DNB (Orthopedics/Orthopedic Surgery), FRCS (Trauma & Orthopedic Surgery)

Dr. Ashok Rajgopal - MBBS, MS – Orthopaedics, FRCS (General Surgery)

Dr. A. B. Govindaraj - MBBS, FRCS (Fellowship of Orthopedic Surgery)

Dr. Pradeep Bhosale - MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics), DNB (Orthopaedics)

Al AfiyaMedi Tour is a leading medical tourism company in India. We offer medical tourism services such as finding the right doctor, the right hospital, and cost estimation etc. Some of the main countries are Bangladesh, South Africa, Egypt, Uganda, Zambia, Sudan, Dubai, Namibia, Iraq, Kenya, Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and so on. We provide free medical assistance for TURP surgery cost, lung cancer treatment, bone marrow transplant cost, best liver transplant hospital, cosmetic and plastic surgery, heart surgery, spine tumor surgery, cancer treatment cost, lung transplant, liver transplant cost, top shoulder replacement surgeons, shoulder replacement surgery cost, hip replacement surgery, best bone marrow hospital, etc.

Source: https://alafiyameditour1.blogspot.com/2024/06/hip-replacement-surgery-india.html

[cardiologybd]

Interventional Radiology for Heart Conditions in Bangladesh

Living with heart disease in Bangladesh doesn't have to be a sentence of limitations. Thanks to interventional radiology, a minimally invasive approach to managing heart conditions, hope blooms in the form of precise, image-guided procedures that target the problem without extensive surgery. This guide explores the power of interventional radiology, its applications for heart conditions in Bangladesh, and how it empowers you to take control of your cardiac health.

Interventional Radiology: A Modern Lifeline

Imagine a detective meticulously navigating your heart's chambers and vessels, wielding not scalpels but catheters and imaging technology. Interventional radiology (IR) does just that, using thin, flexible tubes guided by X-ray or other imaging modalities to diagnose and treat heart conditions without traditional open-heart surgery. When does IR come into play? IR offers a valuable alternative for a range of heart problems in Bangladesh: - Coronary artery disease: Angioplasty and stenting procedures open up narrowed arteries, restoring blood flow and preventing heart attacks. - Peripheral artery disease: Blockages in leg arteries are treated with balloon angioplasty and stenting, alleviating pain and improving circulation. - Structural heart disease: Minimally invasive techniques address valve abnormalities, atrial septal defects, and other structural issues. - Tumor ablation: IR techniques like radiofrequency ablation target and destroy heart tumors, offering minimally invasive alternatives to surgery. Benefits of Interventional Radiology - Minimally invasive: Smaller incisions, less tissue damage, and faster recovery times compared to open surgery. - Reduced pain and discomfort: Minimized post-operative pain and faster return to regular activities. - Precise targeting: Image-guided procedures offer targeted access to specific areas of the heart, minimizing risks and complications. - Shorter hospital stays: Most IR procedures allow for same-day or overnight stays, reducing hospital costs and disruption to daily life.

Accessibility in Bangladesh

Interventional radiology is gaining momentum in Bangladesh, with advanced facilities and experienced IR specialists available at: - National Heart Foundation of Bangladesh - Square Hospitals - Chittagong Medical College Hospital - Private cardiac centers with dedicated IR units Finding the Right Specialist Consult a cardiologist who specializes in interventional cardiology or a board-certified interventional radiologist to discuss your specific condition and suitability for IR procedures. They will assess your medical history, symptoms, and diagnostic tests to determine the best approach for your unique needs.

Taking Control of Your Heart Health

Interventional radiology empowers individuals in Bangladesh with heart conditions to explore less invasive options for diagnosis and treatment. By understanding the possibilities, benefits, and accessibility of IR, you can make informed decisions about your care and chart a course toward a healthier heart, with less scar tissue and faster recovery times. Learn More on Cardiology Bangladesh   Read the full article

[halorocks1214]

the law of relativity

AO3 Link

Word Count: 9963

Summary: The Law of Relativity states that each person will receive a series of problems (‘tests of initiation’) for the purpose of strengthening the ‘light’ within. We must consider each of these tests to be a challenge and remain connected to our hearts when proceeding to solve the problems. This law also teaches us to compare our problems to others’ problems and put everything into its proper perspective. No matter how bad we perceive our situation to be, there is always someone who is in a worse position. It is all relative

Previous Parts (in order): Alan | Virgil | You are here! | Gordon

WHY 👏🏼 CANT 👏🏼 I 👏🏼 WRITE 👏🏼 FICS 👏🏼 IN 👏🏼 MO 👏🏼 DER 👏🏼 RATION 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 also just bluuuergh. dont ask about this fic. part of it was written in a dark auditorium, another was written in a different state, another was written on a frickin bus, this fic has been places ill tell you what. half the time i think this is hot garbage and the other half i think its actually decent so im posting this while my head is in a good headspace and then promptly yeeting myself off the internet for a few hours to wait and see what happens. this series is becoming less of a canon divergence AU and more of a straight-up AU because of certain details im trying to worm in there buT IM TRYING MY BEST

thanks once more to @gumnut-logic, because of the length, this time i used three prompts, them being "What do you mean?", crease, and dream (and they werent even used that much sksksksk)

Warnings for both graphic and non-graphic depictions of violence, as well as mentions of torture and other PTSD/panic attack related stuff. I went deep with this one fellas

Orphan.

The word tasted dirty in his mouth.

He can still see the footage in the backs of his eyelids from when he watched it exactly one year ago. He was the only other (living) adult at the time in the family outside of Grandma, so he was permitted to see it. He remembered they originally didn’t want to show him, mainly because of his age, but Grandma was fierce, and she put one hell of an argument on the table.

One Scott refused to let fall through the cracks by breaking down. If only Grandma knew how he cried his eyes out and screamed to high heaven that night in the hotel room after essentially watching his father be blown to bloody smithereens then she was a goddamn saint for keeping it a secret. It made sense, she was the mother to his father. She had quite the line up of stories from Jeff’s childhood. Scott sensed the early-greying of his hair came from her, heh.

The rest of his family eventually saw it, of course, they did. Scott couldn’t shield them forever. What he will protect, selfishly he might add, was how angry he was at how much better they took it than he did. They cried, yes they did, but they never fully broke down like Scott did. Later in life, he wondered if it was jealousy: jealousy at not truly being able to let go. Whatever it was, he made sure to swallow it along with whatever alcohol he chose for the weekend.

Just add it to the ever-growing pile of shit he had to deal with. Nothing new.

Suddenly he’s 20 again and seated in a plane to be taken to his first stint in the Air Force. He said his goodbyes to Virgil, Gordon, and Alan back at home while Grandma and John metaphorically held his hand all the way to the airport. John was… quiet, more so than usual, but Grandma was stuck right in the middle between being a sobbing mess and ecstatic at the fine young man he’s become.

You’re just like your father. He would be proud.

Scott was secretly glad she never physically said it. It gave him plausible deniability in thinking that those words weren’t laced behind her big, bright, prideful eyes.

The first time went well, maybe even great. He stayed for a couple of months, did some flight tests, and while the training was brutal, boy did he learn a lot. When he came back home it was to a family slowly stitching itself back together. Grandma was a full-time house member, Virgil had taken up painting, Gordon talked about potentially going back to his swim meets, and while Alan was still as silent as ever, he was perkier than when Scott last saw him.

It would be on and off for the next few years: a couple of months at home, slowly and painfully taking over the role their father had (he can’t remember when he essentially received joint custody of his younger siblings with Grandma, but hey, he’s not complaining), then a couple of months out at the Air Force base where he slowly climbed up the ranking platform. He became skillful, perhaps too skillful. When he got his rank of Captain he felt it was less of an honor and more of something they owed him.

He was getting cocky. Never enough to be a danger to his fellow men, but enough to be somewhat of an occasional annoyance. Charles smacked him upside the head more than once. It felt like the world was right-side-up for once. Scott made many-a-calls to John and Virgil, the former enjoying his first few rotations up in space and the latter squarely in the middle of college. Gordon was being offered sponsorships to hell and back, and Alan was quietly getting along with the other kids at his school. Grandma was on welcoming duty for Kayo, who was taking her slot in the Tracy family with grace, though, a warning that their family would take custody of her if something were to happen to her parents would have been nice, Dad.

Of course, nothing ever goes right for their family for too long.

Orphan.

Age 24, it was supposed to be a simple retrieval mission of civilians. Scott was put in charge of his squad and then some. At night, they rolled-- well, flew out to get the job done. Scott can’t even remember the country anymore when minding his own business. Australia? Finland? Perhaps Bangladesh? There was a place John was insistent Scott never do rescues in, Virgil tended to agree, and the eldest unhealthily let them banish him from ever stepping foot there without argument. He could never remember the name off the top of his head until John’s familiar International Rescue, we have a situation rung out in the living room followed by the name of the country.

He would immediately forget it later, trauma too strong, too volatile, but the way his heart stopped and his head shattered and the way he felt ice water rush down his back was a good enough reason to quietly leave the room and let John delegate the job to one of his brothers. Sometimes John found him retching in the toilet halfway through the mission. He made sure to always mute Scott’s wrist communicator, even if it was never turned on in the first place.

The plane touched down. Orders sent the ground team out. But then the ground team took longer than estimated. Scott tensely waited where he was told to. It wasn’t the first mission that took a little longer than predicted and knowing humans, it surely wouldn’t be the last. Then, words mixed with heavy static came over the radio. H--p. Co-- ---7--. --nd ba---p --me--at--y.

Scott sat tensely in his seat, remembering his orders and suddenly hating them. Radio back to home if the mission goes south. Well, it didn’t look like they had the radio anymore. Still didn’t hurt to try at least. Scott spoke the familiar protocol that was ingrained into him when trying to call base. Dammit. Nothing. Probably some kind of blocker of sorts. Sitting up straight as a board, Scott looked through his options.

… He was in charge here. If something happened to his team the fault would lie squarely on his shoulders. Going against everything but his gut, he went out to help his squad. He can’t really remember what he exactly did anymore, but he does remember that it made a noise. Like a Looney Tunes scene: he flinched, froze, waited to see if anything or one heard, breathed a sigh of relief, and continued.

He eventually stumbled across one of his closest comrades, Arnold Brigeets. Yes, the name was ironic and half the reason he joined the force in the first place. The guy was one of the people that actually trained Scott and also seemed to be one of the few that was genuinely proud when Scott became a higher rank. It’s why Scott was more appreciative of Arnold than others, that, and well… Scott thought his fatherly abilities were good. The guy did have three kids back home.

Orphan.

Ducking down behind the cover his older friend was semi-situated behind, Scott watched as Arnold jumped at the intrusion before sighing. Scott had run into some enemies that he swiftly took down-- nothing too serious, he didn’t have the time or weapons for such an act, but they definitely would be out of it for a while-- so Arnold must have too on his way to find cover as well, hence why he was so on edge.

“Thank God,” Arnold wiped his forehead, “Glad to see you join us, kid.”

Scott was breathing heavily, but the grin he attempted was still there, “Y-Yeah, so what happened? More threats than we thought?”

Arnold shook his head, “Yes and no. There were a lot more baddies than we thought, but that’s because the civilians weren’t civilians. It’s a tr--”

Boom. The familiar sound of a gunshot.

Arnold fell over. Never got back up. Dropped like a rock in a lake, never to come up to the surface again.

Scott was so caught off guard he couldn’t react to the gun that swiftly beat him over the head, knocking him out cold. The only thing on his mind was oh fuck oh fuck I messed up I shouldn’t have come I wouldn’t have made any noise that way why did I--

They had him for roughly two weeks. Scott always thought the plotline in movies where the villain vehemently denied knowing any important information was dumb as hell. We’re not stupid. We wouldn’t go after someone if they didn’t know something.

The things they did hurt and no amount of I don’t fucking know anything! would help. Those two weeks were lost to Scott in a sea of pain and torment. The only thing he remembered was being captured, then waking up in a hospital drugged up to his gills with his superiors staring at him like he cured cancer.

“You saved the rest of your squad from sharing the same fate as the first half.”

“I-I did?”

“You betcha, son. I only wish I was there to see it! People be saying you were like an animal in how you took ‘em all down.”

Scott’s never remembered, and he wanted to keep it that way.

He was given the highest honors, even the chance to skip a couple of ranks to be at the same level as the big boys, but the night they were going to share the news to the golden boy himself, they found him in one of the bathrooms with a bloody hand and a mirror shattered with no hope of fixing it.

He was honorably discharged to a family that was so thankful he was home. Words like missing in action and POA never stopped haunting their nightmares. Scott was too, God, of course, he was, but sitting around and doing nothing was the last thing his traumatized mind wanted or maybe even needed. After doing what he considered to be the biggest fuck-up of his life, he needed to feel important.

This isn’t the first time he’ll say this and it surely won’t be the last: thank Christ for Grandma.

“You want me to take over?...”

“Yep, it’s about time Tracy Industries received a new pair of eyes. The Board certainly thinks so.”

“But… they’d rather have a crazy, PTSD-infected veteran over you?”

A rough pinch to his ear, “Hey now, don’t call yourself that,” the gentle motherly tone was back as soon as it left, “Besides, that crazy might exactly be what they want. Half of their argument is that I “don’t take enough risks.” They’re getting tired of listening to an old fart like me.”

A moment of contemplation, followed by the cheeky raise of an eyebrow, “So you’re saying you want me to take so many risks they have no choice but to take you back?”

A bark of laughter, “Damn straight.”

He learned the ropes faster than normal (healthy, is probably the correct term), and he immediately won the hearts of both young and old in the company. Instead of flying planes every few months, he worked on business reports and vetoed new ideas every couple of weeks. It felt satisfying for the most part, and his family was just happy he was still alive to enjoy it.

However, there was a slight roadblock on his way to becoming a somewhat stable person.

He became prone to violent blackouts. It had to have started when he blacked out and saved himself from those two weeks of hell, which made the most sense. Something was always destroyed when he came back to life. John was the best at calming him down due to his own experience with panic attacks, however, John couldn’t always be there, and the next rotation for NASA was coming swiftly. Scott swore up and down he would be fine, he could figure something out. John went back into space with an eyebrow permanently raised.

It was just him and Virgil home (Grandma had taken Alan and Kayo to watch Gordon swim) when he, unfortunately, proved John right. Scott wasn’t sure what triggered it, but he vividly remembered coming back in Virgil’s extremely tight hold. The first thing Scott thought to say was damn, beanstalk, when did you get so strong? but then he laid his eyes upon the forming bruise on his younger bro’s face and hasn’t recovered since.

Virgil swore he never held it against Scott. Scott definitely thought he should have.

That night brought sudden clarity to Scott that he was doing this horribly wrong. He was a ticking time bomb, and it wouldn’t be long before something was damaged in a way that couldn’t be fixed. Scott needed an anchor. Something to ground him before he took it too far. John wasn’t going to be earthside forever, Grandma was busy with Kayo, Alan was just a kid, and Gordon was living the dream. None of them were viable.

Then, as he was thinking, he was suddenly aware of how calming Virgil’s arms were around him, how they were preventing the growing panic attack in his chest from getting even bigger.

It was easy.

For once in Scott’s life, his eyes were big and young as he asked Virgil, “Help me, please.”

After a few brief seconds, Virgil gulped, “Okay.”

From then on, Virgil was Stone Number One. Scott’s admiration for Virgil outweighed the guilt of putting the black-haired man in that position in the first place. Virgil was glad to follow his older brother’s leadership, but just as qualified to bring him the hell back when he went too far. From getting too sacrificial to preventing a good punching-out some of the idiots they dealt with, Virgil made sure Scott knocked that shit off.

Time went on, Scott was a top-notch CEO at Tracy Industries, John was having one hell of a time up in space, Virgil was graduated and had so many life opportunities to pick from, Alan was thriving at being a (mostly) stable kid, Kayo was 100% acclimated to the family, and Gordon--

Scott found himself gripping the wooden desk very abruptly. He was shocked he didn’t snap a chunk off in the process. Why was he thinking about this right after a giant business conference? Who knows at this point. If this giant origin story seemed jagged and jumpy, maybe even somewhat vague, good, that’s how it fucking felt.

Back to said story.

Scott always thought he and Gordon would have the least amount in common.

They do, but out of all the things they could have picked to be similar, why did it have to be the PTSD caused by military-related jobs? Scott was 24 when he got his, Gordon was just under 20. It may have been a few years since their respective accidents, but they’re never going to go another day without it feeling like it was just yesterday.

At this point, Gordon was up and walking again, mainly thanks to John and Alan while Virgil and Scott helped in their own ways. Grandma’s cooking was what probably motivated him the most though, ha, the need to get away from it… Scott smiled. Grandma was always a constant. Honestly, if it weren’t for her, the family might have fallen apart. Literally.

What has he been saying throughout this whole shindig? Thank Christ for Grandma.

One day out of the blue, Grandma reserved the entire family (yes, even Kayo and Alan) private plane tickets so they could spend some time on the mainland for a few days. Honestly, even if the island wasn’t getting major renovations, you hooligans need to get out more. Have some fun. Try not to kill anything, especially each other, she all told them while creepily grinning. John and Virgil smacked Gordon more than once on the plane for insisting that she finally snapped, dudes, she’s gonna kill us.

Most of the time during their little vacation, Scott heavily focused on his breathing. He was pretty sure he knew what she was doing. He would be lying if he said he wasn’t nervous, but the same went for his excitement.

Dad showed him these plans the day after his 18th birthday. You’re a man now, Scotty, I need your help making this big boy decision with me.

As soon as they reset foot down on the island, Scott took a deep breath and felt relaxed at the salty taste in the air. It was weird, nothing on the outside was changed, and yet… it still felt different.

“Guys!” Virgil yelled out, “Stop playing in the water! We just got back, aren’t you two tired?!”

Blinking back to reality, Scott looked over to see his two youngest brothers doing exactly what Virgil was yelling at them for. Poor Johnny was a little damp too, which is what probably caused Virgil to shout at them in the first place. The blondes didn’t care. They continued to prance around in the shallow waves with their pants legs rolled up, acting as if they didn’t hear anything outside of their laughter. Gordon shoved his hands down into the liquid and threw some directly at Alan, nailing him right in the face.

Scott exhaled slowly. He couldn’t imagine them doing this 8 years ago.

Regardless, the artist was right, and they couldn’t waste too much time. Kayo was swift in grabbing both gentlemen by the ears and dragging them onto dry land. They all painstakingly trekked their way up to the-- what would you call Tracy Island? Mansion? Over-blown cabin? Well, whatever it was, Scott would always be willing to call it home.

Stepping inside, each brother took in the view, which was underwhelmingly not that much different, except for one tiny thing. John suddenly noticed a figure already standing in the living room and blinked, “No way… it’s--”

Gordon jumped in, both with his body and his words, “Brains?! Dude, how’s it hanging?!”

The scientist in question jumped at the voices before clearing his throat and readjusting his glasses, “O-Oh, hello again, T-Tracys. It’s good to see you all once more.”

Virgil slung an arm around his shoulder, ignoring the blatant squawk, “Man, how long has it been?! What made you finally decide to crawl out of your hole?”

Snickers came from all corners of the house. Brains stood up straighter, “W-Well, I was contacted b-by Mrs. Tracy over here with an offer I c-couldn’t turn down.”

Eyebrows tilted in all shapes and sizes. Someone cleared their throat. Everyone turned to look at Grandma once again, “I think if you all follow me, you’ll swiftly understand what I’m talking about.”

I already do, Scott thought matter-of-factly. John seemed to be understanding it now, Virgil was on the cusp of remembering what his father was hinting at for him, and Gordon was just as lost as Alan. It made sense, Jeff talked to all of them about it, but the oldest had seniority. The two youngest not remembering just by words was expected, especially since that was going to be rectified very quickly.

The hangar under the island was beautiful. Point blank. It smelt of iron and steel and grease and engine and that was the first time since Scott had been in the Air Force that he didn’t gag or flinch at the thought of flying something again. Scott had seen the plans his father drew. He assumed Jeff finished building it, but he never got to physically see it since…

In some ways, he was glad he didn’t. Now he got to experience it with (most of) his family, and that made it ten times better.

After letting them absorb the scenery, Grandma slowly turned around to look at them all, “You remember that dream your father had?”

The four oldest blinked, Kayo simply raised her eyebrows, meanwhile, Alan, being the teenager he was, didn’t read the emotion in the room, “Oh, yeah! Aunt Casey always talked about how he was going to “change the world” and stuff. What did he call it again?”

Scott felt way more confident than he had in a while, “International Rescue.”

Grandma nodded, gleeful at the happy look on her oldest and youngest grandsons’ faces, “Well, I’ve been thinking about some things. I know we don’t exactly worry about money, but after everything your father put into these girls… I’d hate for them to go to waste.”

The Tracy family jumped at that. John’s mouth was wide open in shock, yes, shock, “That station is still up there?”

Grandma sighed, “You mean ‘Five? Not for long. Not if we don’t send someone up there within the next few days.”

John blushed at the grin Grandma gave him. Clearing his throat, his big brain came to a startling conclusion, “Wait… you brought Alan along?”

The other big brothers in the room jumped at that. Kayo was the only one with enough balls to say the truth out loud, “Mrs. Tracy, I mean no offense, but he’s--”

“Just a kid?” Grandma smirked, “A kid that’s topped the VR charts for Intergalactic Fury for weeks straight while simultaneously getting nothing but A’s in his classes?”

Scott nodded slowly in comprehension. He remembered Alan talking about that game for a while. It was some kind of online racing simulator of sorts. Scott caught the prettiest string of words from Alan when going to bed one night. Nearly made him shit his pants. He made the kid promise to keep it PG-13 if he wanted to keep playing.

Still, the elders in the family slowly turned to look at the freckled boy with both shock and pride. Alan blinked with wide-eyed innocence, “But my English class is only at a B--”

“Shh, kiddo, I’m making a point,” Grandma rolled her eyes. The other brothers snickered. Yep, still Alan. Grandma sighed, “Now before you point out that video games are different, I know, but the difference between them and this is that video games don’t have some of the most talented older brothers in the world to guide him.”

Said older brothers jumped at the idea. Before any objection could be made, Grandma continued, “Besides, the GDF seemed to be okay with it. The Colonel was willing to oversee some of his training too.”

John flinched at that, “But IR is supposed to be independent!”

Grandma slightly frowned. She didn’t exactly like it either, “It still is, but in the world of business, compromises have to be made.”

Virgil huffed and crossed his arms, “Well, that’s… rough. Here I thought only Scott would have to deal with the bullshit of business.”

Grandma chuckled at the somewhat un-Virgil-like behavior, “It really is, Virgil. But about that Scott part,” she slowly turned to look at him and him only, “I hate to give you more work to do, but if you want to work within their restrictions?”

Suddenly every pair of eyes in the room was on the head of the family. Gulping, Scott looked down at his feet to think. It was a tense few moments, nobody sure what he was going to decide, least of all him, before the brunette cleared his throat and brought his face back up with a grin.

“Well then,” Scott turned to look at the bright tip of ‘One, chest fluttering with a feeling that became unfamiliar to him over the past few years, “I guess now it’s time to state the obvious.”

From then on, every time he loaded into that cockpit of his girl, he felt lighter than air.

“Thunderbirds are GO!”

Everything was okay again.

Mostly.

Orphan.

Scott took another sip of his whiskey and refocused on his reports.

---

Scott was in some kind of dissociative state the whole way home.

Alan doesn’t deserve this. He’s still a kid, barely an adult, and he’s going to go through utter hell because you screwed up. You were 24, Gordon was just under 20, Alan was barely 18. Alan’s going to get fucked up like you and it’s all your fault.

His movements were robotic and rigid. Anyone with a working eye could tell he was deep in shock and running on autopilot. Mostly Jeff. Especially Jeff. The rest of the brothers all noticed too, but they were also running on their own empty fuel tanks, so the only thing they could do was guilty send their older brother the occasional glance of pity and concern.

Jeff was going to need to talk to them about that. Somehow. Maybe he shouldn’t be the one to point it out since he feels just as bad. His sons were too much like him, sometimes, and that made his guilt burn all the same. He should’ve been there to warn his sons about the dangers of unnecessary guilt. Having that kind of guilt was a parent’s job, dammit, and maybe grandparents only occasionally.

But then he remembered where he’s been for the past 8 years and… who really was Alan’s parents anymore? His gut was screaming it sure as hell isn’t you, but he knew his sons would want him to step back into the role as soon as he was physically fit to do so, not just for Alan, but for themselves as well. They would deny it, but they probably just wanted to be kids again too, even if it was only brief, fleeting moments.

Who was to tell the protective, fatherly side of Jeff no to that? No better time to fix things like the present after all.

He saw Scott go up the stairs when they first stepped into the living room, so that’s where Jeff was going to go too. Footsteps light, Jeff retraced his eldest’s pathway to his bedroom. Only, he stopped before said bedroom. Unfavorable noises were coming from the closed bathroom door, and Jeff could only swallow whatever emotion it made him feel. Taking a deep breath, he slowly opened the (unlocked) door to the bathroom and laid his eyes upon the incriminating scene.

Jeff was met with the sight of Scott retching his entire stomach into the toilet, hands aggressively grabbing his sticky, hair-gelled hair and trying to make himself bald from the strain.

Jeff’s reaction was always based on autopilot, and it will never stop being so.

Ignoring his protesting body, Jeff kneeled and placed a hand on his son’s back, only to abruptly pull back like he touched a hot stove when Scott only got more hysterical at the contact. The brunette clenched his eyes shut even more (and they were already shut as much as possible) while his head became a special kind of crease. Like he was in pain, “God, I wanna go home. Why won’t they listen I swear I’m telling the truth! Please, I just want Dad--”

Jeff was frozen on the spot, heart stopping in the process. His brain shut down while he watched his son continue to mindlessly ramble and panic. His freaked-out mind barely registered footsteps from behind in the hallway, followed by a voice going what’s going-- holy--

Something thundered past him. Blinking once, Jeff guiltily watched as Virgil kneeled behind the eldest and wrapped his arms around the thin man’s shoulders while taking Scott’s hands in his in a protective blanket, “Scott! Jesus-- we’re at home, you’re safe and it’s June 14th, 2--”

Scott only struggled more, panicking at the fact he could no longer yank his hair out. Dammit, it was the only way he could feel in control, don’t take that away too! “No! I swear I’ve said everything! Please--”

Virgil immediately knew that this was one of those attacks that Scott wasn’t coming back down from with pure human intervention. Add-on the sight of his father’s big eyes signifying the man was at a loss at what to do, Virgil had no choice. He snapped loudly, remembering the comms were still on and only feeling slightly bad at the way Scott flinched in his arms, “Shit-- John! It’s Scott! Get the stuff! We’re in the upstairs bathroom!”

Muffled footsteps through a few walls in the house could be heard. Jeff’s mind was only starting to catch up when the brother Virgil called for came rushing into the bathroom (Jeff never remembered it being big enough to hold four of them) and ignoring Jeff (practically shoving him out of the way too, man, this was bad) on his way to the main problem at hand. Landing on his knees in a way that made Jeff wince, John gently grabbed one of Scott’s arms from Virgil’s hold and subsequently pulled a needle from nowhere and injected something into Scott.

The response was instantaneous.

Scott’s breathing, while still labored, got slower. He stopped struggling as well, and the way he sagged reminded Jeff of ice melting into a puddle. The two other brothers’ shoulders also sagged, relieved at the crisis averted. John stood up, knees cracking as he rubbed the back of his neck. Then, he froze at the sight of something in the doorway, “G-Gordon…”

Virgil snapped his head up from where he was looking at Scott. Jeff did something similar. Yup, in the doorway was the strawberry blonde, eyes wide, making him younger by about 10 years. The ex-Olympian in question inhaled, closed his eyes, and soon speed-walked his way out of the entrance to the bathroom. Dammit, neither Gordon or Alan have seen something like that and it probably spooked him more than anything. He’d understand with his own PTSD-related issues, but still, seeing the “never weak” big brother freak out in such a scary way...

John combed a hand through his hair, shaking his head. As he started walking out of the room, he whispered to himself, probably hoping no one heard him, “Dammit, this is all so fucked…”

Unfortunately, Jeff did hear, and the dirty language made the father flinch. John was always the best about making sure Grandma didn’t wash his mouth out with soap, and the fact that he so willingly didn’t care meant that everyone was at the end of their rope. Still reeling at the sight, Jeff couldn’t react to the gentle arms that picked him up off the floor and slowly led him out of the suddenly stuffy room.

With the click of the door shutting, Jeff realized what Virgil did, “W-Wait, Scott--”

“Will be okay for a few seconds,” Virgil finished for his dad, “I know it’s nearly been a decade, but the one part of you I definitely know hasn’t changed is the need to comfort us, just like we hoped.” The small grin that fell over the middle child’s face put Jeff a little bit at ease, but Virgil wasn’t completely done, “So, I’m going to let you take care of this, but I just want to make sure you’ll handle it with grace. Take this slowly, okay? Scott might be doped up, but he’s still… volatile, in a sense.”

Jeff cleared his throat, suddenly choking on the unneeded tension, “Okay, Virgil, I promise, just… what happened? That was… bad, and really bad at that too. I know Scott would never let something that severe willingly come out in front of his family.”

Virgil rubbed the back of his neck, clearly not ready for this conversation, “Listen, Dad,” he inhaled sharply, cutting himself off before sighing in a way that said fuck it, might as well get this over with, “As much as it felt like it did, the world didn’t stop spinning because you… well, we had lives we somehow wanted to continue living. We all have lives and stories now, and this is Scott’s story to tell.”

Jeff was getting misty-eyed again. Back when he was just a kid, Virgil couldn’t keep a secret to save his life, mainly in part due to his insomnia-related issues (Jeff has to wonder if he still has them, more problems for the future) and general lack of filter because of sleep-deprivation. Now Jeff knew there was a starch difference between a kid who couldn’t keep his mouth shut and a man who genuinely knew how to respect another man’s privacy, but…

It just hammers home how much he’s missed with his boys. Gulping, Jeff made a mental note to talk with his mom about certain things he’s missed. She’ll know a lot more than he would, “Okay, Virge. Thank you, for stepping up there.”

Virgil’s shoulders relaxed at Jeff’s words, as well as his father’s hand patting him on the shoulder, “Thanks, Dad. Just… go easy on him. I know it’s a little late for this but none of us ever properly talked about things. It was very unhealthy, deep down we all knew that, but…”

“You just couldn’t get the proper emotions out?” Jeff finished for his son. At Virgil’s soft nod, Jeff exhaled, “I’m not going to say that it was a smart decision, but we’re all here now. We can move forward with this.” Jeff squeezed where his hand laid.

Virgil blinked before curtly going, “Yeah. Goodnight, Dad. Take care of Scott.”

Virgil stepped around his father and walked to where his bedroom most definitely was not, but Jeff could deal with that in a little bit. He had another son who he was pretty sure just had a violent PTSD attack of some kind, plus, Virgil seemed to sour at something Jeff said. The ex-astronaut wasn’t sure what it was, so he didn’t chase after him out of worry that--

Wait.

We’re all here now.

Dammit, Jeff. Out of all the sentences you could’ve picked...

Alrighty, just add that to the ever-growing pile of things that need to be talked about later. No biggie. Jeff found himself sighing and rubbing the back of his neck much like Virgil did a few minutes ago. Turning around, he was met with the bathroom door once more. Shaking his head, Jeff slowly crept into the room and saw that not much was different, especially with Scott.

His heart softly cracked, but, again, he can deal with it later.

Sitting down on the ground and grimacing at the way his body ached (was gravity always this rough?), Jeff leaned against the floor cabinets about 2-3 feet away from Scott, who made himself into a nice comfortable ball in the corner next to the toilet, his palm smushed against his forehead. Jeff waited a few seconds. Then minutes. Then he realized he would have to be the one to initiate the conversation. He probably should’ve realized that right when he came back in. He opened his mouth, but his wasn’t the one that words came out of.

“It was… Zambia.”

Jeff’s heart stopped and his mouth snapped shut. He couldn’t stop the way his eyes clearly showed his panic, but hopefully, he guiltily thought, Scott was a little too doped up to not realize it, “Scotty, what do you mean?”

Scott shrugged in a way that spoke he thought what he was admitting wasn’t a big deal. Yep, clearly not with it, “Mission went bad… caught for a couple of weeks.”

Jeff was hoping his first fuck back on Earth, spoken to himself like right now or otherwise, would have been a comedic thing, but the way nausea rose in his throat said this was anything but funny.

Scott wanted to be in the Air Force. Badly. Who was a father to deny his son’s want to be part of such a noble cause? He gave him tips, took him to meet friends in high places, sometimes even sparred with him when he turned 18, but then Jeff was suddenly thousands of miles away with no hope of ever having the chance of sparring with his eldest again. Despite it, Jeff hoped Scott went on to become the best pilot the world has ever seen.

Part of this looks like he did, but at what cost?

As much as it felt like it did, the world didn’t stop spinning because you… well, we had lives we somehow wanted to continue living.

Aw hell, “Jesus, Scott…” Jeff couldn’t tell if it was the brashness or the lack of a nickname that made Scott flinch and he hated it. He immediately softened his tone and brought his 27-year-old child into his arms, “Shh, shh, we’ll be okay. We’ll figure this out.”

Like father like son, old habits die hard, and as easy as it was to still be able to comfort his children, Scott seemed to just as easily take it as he used to 8 years ago, “Alan doesn’t deserve this kind of hell, God, he’s barely not a kid anymore! Why--”

Jeff tightened his hold to keep his son in reality, and because he didn’t like the tone behind those words, “Hey, you didn’t either--”

Scott somehow managed to fling himself out of the hug, focus incredibly on point for someone who was doped up to his eyelids five seconds ago, “But I fucked up! I made the wrong call and then suddenly Arnold was dead and he had a wife and kids-- shit, what the hell did I do?”

Okay.

First of all: way to put him back in that headspace when that’s the exact opposite you were going for, Jeff, father of the year. Second: dammit. Just… dammit. This was a big fat hand grenade in a giant handbasket that they didn’t have time to gently get out while simultaneously not yanking the pin clean off with the grace of a drunk elephant. Jeff was no stranger to Survivor’s Guilt, but there was a whole untapped pile of metaphorical C4 within his son’s head that was ready for someone to push the goddamn button.

He wanted it to be him, desperately, because it sounded like he already failed his family enough, it was all he could do at this point, but he absolutely hated that he couldn’t do it right now. This was going to take a lot of time, which they didn’t have, plus, Jeff thought he had a pretty good understanding of this new Scott and the rest of his kids. Jeff was aware that if he didn’t help his sons find their baby as fast as possible over everything else it’ll lead to a fate nobody wanted.

A shaky sigh, “Okay, Scotty, let’s get you to bed. We’ll talk strategy in the morning.”

Scott simply nodded as his father flung Scott’s arm around his broader shoulders and picked him up. Slowly and painfully but surely, father and son meandered their way to Scott’s room. With a thump a little harder than Jeff wanted, Scott flopped down on top of his sheets and immediately started snoring. Despite everything that just happened, the father couldn’t help but grin at the sight. Well, there was another thing Jeff gracefully passed onto his son.

Jeff only took Scott’s shoes off. He would’ve loved to pull the sheets up around him too, but the father didn’t want to take any chances at waking him up. Slowly tip-toeing out of the room, Jeff gave one last glance back at his son before finally letting him be and gently shutting the door. He had three other sons he needed to console, but his tired joints told him to selfishly take a moment for himself for right now unless he wanted to collapse and give his family more to deal with.

Jeff eventually made his way to his room-- which was sadly unkempt, he noticed-- and sat down on the edge of his unfamiliar bed to think.

He’ll figure something out. If he had to crawl through images of his son being brutally and bloodily tortured then by God he would with the fury of a thousand suns.

He was back and he wasn’t going to throw away any second or even third chance he was given.

---

“I got him.”

Virgil turned his comms back on, and with it, Scott’s heart restarted for the first time in a few weeks. Taking a moment for a breather, Scott leaned against the wall while practically wheezing. They have him back, holy shit, they have him back. Scott vaguely heard Gordon cry in pure relief and joy. He saw John’s side of the comms flutter for a bit before a bright flash happened. Blinking away the white spots, Scott looked at his wrist to see a fully detailed map of the compound.

Gordon spoke what they were all thinking, “Woohoo! First Allie comes back, then Johnny-boy gets us a free ticket out of here! We’re winning this race, baby!”

A very loud moment of silence. John cleared his throat, “Actually, I was going to say glad to see you in one piece, you little shit,” a playful gasp came from Virgil’s side. It was too high pitched to be from the pianist’s mouth. Scott chuckled, but the paranoid part of his brain said John wasn’t done. His brain was right, ‘“But guys… that wasn’t me. Or EOS. We still haven’t found a way to get past the metal they made these walls out of.”

That silence was even more deafening than the last, and before Virgil could utter out his typical what the fuck, a small logo appeared at the corner of their new map. One that was all too familiar. The Chaos Crew wasn’t the only one who could brand their awful deeds.

Son of a bitch.

Virgil’s order over the radio was meant for Alan, but Scott couldn’t help but listen to it too.

“Shit, Alan, you need to run.”

Making quick work of the compound once more, Scott, while booking it even quicker than last time, opened a private line between him and Gordon, “Hey, how would you feel if I said go help Virgil while I cover Alan?”

The first response was stuttering, which Scott expected, but then it was followed up by something completely out of left field for Gordon, “... Okay, just as long as you promise to bring Alan back in one piece.”

Part of Scott wanted to console Gordon, another was questioning why Gordon was so quick to give up, another wanted to say of course, I will, idiot, but the first part that made itself verbal was easy, “You know I will, buddy.”

Scott could physically picture Gordon’s tiny, little, somber nod clear as day, “Sounds good, captain. See you on the other side.”

With a click, Scott was back on the group comm. Suddenly remembering what exactly his job was, he pulled out the map so graciously given to them by The Hood. Looking at all the dots, one was heading towards a prone one (oh if that asshole did anything to Virgil…) while another one was heading right for Scott himself. Actually, in just a few seconds, right as Scott rounded the corner he would--

“Woah, look out there, Tigger!”

Yes, you heard that correctly: not tiger, Tigger. Tigger hadn’t been used since Alan was itty bitty. It always seemed like the kid had endless energy with the way he wouldn’t stop bounding off the walls and furniture. Even as a baby, Lucy had to sit with him for a few hours while he slept in his crib to make sure he would stay there. In fact, their mother gave Alan that nickname herself. She was quite the Winnie the Pooh fan, and the rest of the family figured it would be one of the ways they could keep her legacy alive for the tiny potato.

Wrapping his arms around said flailing potato, albeit much bigger than a baby, Scott thought he would collapse then and there. Alan was here, in his arms, and yeah, the sight of his dirty and somewhat ripped up IR uniform made him mad, but Scott, for once in his life, decided to focus on the here-and-now, aka his precious, alive little brother, who finally stopped struggling at the realization that hey, the person holding you is a good guy, time to turn off fight mode.

Smushing their foreheads together as much as possible, Scott desperately fought to keep the waterworks back, a smile from ear to ear hopefully taking whatever energy his tear ducts had, “You are getting such an ass beating when we get home, little bro.”

Alan jumped back with a look of What the hell?! What did I do now?!

Scott simply rolled his eyes, “Really? “Not important”? You graduated high school, tiny dude! That’s huge! You remember Gordon’s party, right?”

Alan’s mouth gaped before he closed it with slightly puffy cheeks. Those same cheeks tinged with a small blush. Alan wasn’t exactly expecting to be smothered so soon (well, he did cry his eyes out on Virgil’s shoulder, but that was different!). Shaking it off, Alan moved his hands rhythmically and rapidly, To be fair, we weren’t sure he was going to get one for a while.

Scott faltered a little bit at the ASL. Darn, he should’ve seen Alan’s lack of talking from a mile away. Scott carefully hid his disappointment from Alan. Lord knew what the kid would take it as, “Yeah, that’s what he got for barely making it. Imagine what you’re going to get!”

Scott assumed his semi-fake charm worked, as Alan seemed to play along without any kind of suspicion, Oh yeah. Fair enough.

This kid, man.

Then, slow clapping came from a dark corner, making Scott’s heart leap out of his throat as well as push Alan behind himself. Glaring as much as he could towards the invisible evil-doer, Scott didn’t have to think twice, “Alan, take my map and find Virgil and Gordon.”

The youngest looked like he was going to object.

“Go.”

He no longer did. Good.

Listening to the field commander’s orders, Scott felt his wristband slip off his wrist and a warm body leave his vicinity. An inhale. Also good. An exhale, followed by an even darker glare, “What more do you want?”

Short and straight-to-the-point and angry, two things Scott typically wasn’t. Regardless, like a cold gust of wind, footsteps started approaching him from the shadow. Once Scott saw the outline of a body, he tensed even more. Virgil would snap at him for clenching his jaw so much.

A dark chuckle reminded him of what was important. The voice that spoke reminded him of something completely different, “Now then, brother, let’s not be rude to each other!”

Scott’s pupils shrunk at the familiar sight of Gordon stepping towards him. Except it wasn’t Gordon, because Scott knew that Gordon knew better. He also knew Gordon didn’t cheekily smile like that, even after a prank, nor did he walk that straight. He always had a funny walk after WASP, and Gordon wore that fact like a badge of honor.

Oh no, Scott definitely knew who this was, “What the hell are you playing at?”

Fake-Gordon rolled his eyes, like it wasn’t obvious, “I mean if we want to go that route, why did kid insist you being in the military was the coolest thing he’d ever heard you do? Maybe I wouldn’t have been pressured into joining a branch myself in the end.”

Scott’s nostrils flared, and by God, his pupils might have actually slitted like a snake’s, or possibly even a dragon’s, “Excuse me?”

Scott blinked, and suddenly he was met by not-Virgil, “Plus, why was our conclusion after hearing a three-year-old wanting to see snow to go to a ski resort? It had to have been those big, selfish, beady eyes, right?”

“C’mon, Scotty, we gotta give you some kind of calming exercise. There’s going to come a time when neither me or John are going to be there.”

“Hmm… does yoga work?”

A snort, “Well, that’s not too bad of an idea. Maybe the person pissing you off will stop whatever they’re doing at the sight of you spontaneously doing downward dog.”

Laughter, an unfamiliar action, “Yeah, okay, but for real, those breathing exercises I’ve seen you do look okay. Let’s start there.”

Scott was not a liar by heart. He had to admit that those exercises were doing jack shit right about now.

Another blink, another brother. Familiar ginger hair was all Scott could see, “To continue that previous point, why did Dad start International Rescue again? And what led to his demise?”

“Sounds like a piece of work. Why do you keep dealing with these people again?”

“Someone has to pay the bills, Johnny. Grandma’s too focused on making the perfect poison for us.”

A roll of eyes, “Right, because the billions we have saved wouldn’t be enough to last a couple of families a few lifetimes. Glad to see your calming exercises are working at least. How’s that going for you, by the way?”

A pause. A flicker of vision around the room. Someone cleared their throat, probably himself, “It’s probably not as bad as whatever space is throwing at you. You handling it okay up there?”

Another pause, followed by a sigh, “Well, since you asked so nicely…”

Scott wanted to deflect the truth so badly right now more than anything else. Telling him he couldn’t pilot ‘One anymore would be a much more enticing option than what he was hearing.

Suddenly, Scott was looking in a mirror, “Besides, I know more than anybody that he wasn’t wanted. A mistake. I thought we Tracys hated being imperfect?”

The Hood must have known their backstories from internet articles, and being the mastermind he was, it probably took him all of three seconds to see Alan had some hidden self-worth issues. By playing the biggest Guess Who? game of all time, The Hood was most likely able to figure out some less-than-positive ideals Alan thought about himself throughout his childhood and danced circles around his already weakened mind to string together some spineless blame to put on the kid by sheer evilness alone.

Knowing his kid brother, it worked.

Scott wasn’t thinking straight-- maybe even at all when the first punch was thrown.

Just like that, Scott blacked out and was running on terminator mode. John would be disappointed. Virgil would be horrified. Gordon might find it funny. Alan wasn’t here, and thank God for that. Scott wasn’t entirely sure what he was doing. All his mind was telling him was make lots of pain hard and fast. His brain also blocked out any hit The Hood was giving him in return. Pain flared for a few seconds, then it was swept away in the puddle of rage his mind was currently being consumed in.

Soon, his out-of-it mind found its target and gripped his-- The Hood’s arm, no disguise would make him have an identity crisis, thank you very much-- nice and rough.

Scott heard the familiar snap of cartilage and felt only partially bad. If he was thinking more clearly, he would be disgusted with himself. Yes, even The Hood didn’t deserve this level of Scott’s fury. Oh, he definitely deserved to be hit by a truck, but not by Scott. It was mostly due to Scott’s sanity. If he could be this graphic and violent at all, even to the worse possible criminals, that meant he could be that way during other moments, and that was not a territory he wanted to cross into.

Welp, he was here now, and he’ll hate to admit it in the future, but the only thing that brought him out of it was a tiny gasp from a few feet away. Snapping his head up, Scott’s eyes landed squarely on a smaller-than-normal Alan, who was currently clutching his arm to his chest in an emotion Scott didn’t want to figure out at the moment. So much for going and finding Virgil and Gordon.

“Allie, help…” fake him grunted out, only making real Scott growl and tighten his hold (and probably making his case worse). Looking up from the person in his arms, Scott felt his heart split in two at the sight. There was fear and uncertainty in Alan’s blue eyes and boy did it hurt. Scott couldn’t tell if it was because even seeing a potentially-fake Scott being beaten up was bad or if it was because he’d never seen big brother be this brutal, even towards their enemies. Whatever the reason, it involved Scott being the main root of the problem.

Wait, that was The Hood’s plan. Shit… make Scott act past the point of no return in a way that was unfamiliar to Alan so the kid couldn’t be fully sure who was who, and Scott fell right into his trap, hook, line, and sinker.

Fuck.

Bloody well done, Scott, you absolute moron.

Scott faltered a little bit, “A-Alan, I--”

That falter was enough for The Hood to break an arm out of his grip and elbow him in the face. In the brief second of freedom he had, he tried dashing towards Alan, but Scott was too quick for everyone’s good and soon had the imposter back in his arms, both of them struggling in a way that made them look like they were tied into the weirdest knot in existence.

Then, an earthquake struck.

No, literally.

A big shake of the abandoned compound threw the look-a-likes about and subsequently off the platform they were on. The place was old; it didn’t take a lot of weight for that guard rail they made their way over towards while fighting to snap right off. With a yelp, the two of them gripped the edge as much as they could and held on. Crap, I know we talked with Fuse about potentially setting some stuff off, but--

Blinking, Scott saw a familiar mop of blonde hair come into view. Alan was rather panicked, clearly not sure which Scott was the real Scott. Not only that, he had little time to decide which one to save. Goodie, another reason to despise The Hood: not only has he put Alan through weeks of torment, now he’s forcing the kid to decide to either save his oldest brother and biggest hero or his personal torturer.

And Alan won’t know until he picks.

Holy hell, this was getting worse by the second. Hopefully, big brother charm can work its magic and get them the hell out of there.

“Alan, quickly, over here!”

“I can’t hold on for much longer, Alan, hurry!”

The two Scotts glared at one another in the exact same way, not making Alan’s job much easier. Another shake, another slip down the metal cliff, more screams, and Alan looked ready to tear his hair out. Scott watched as the kid looked around rapidly, probably praying for a miracle in the process. Suddenly, the kid jumped when he must have spotted something important. Within the blink of an eye, he was gone and out of their range of visions to retrieve it.

Whatever the hell he noticed better be important, because if just ended up wasting precious time then--

Another shake, probably the last one. Still, it was enough.

Both their grips gave away at the same time, screams identical (God, did he always sound that wimpy?) as they plummeted to their demises. Scott was briefly able to look up to see his brother pop his head over the cliff like a chipmunk again and grab the (albeit broken) arm of The Hood and save him. Dammit, Scott should have expected that, though, that display of anger was uncharacteristic to Alan. Probably terrified him even more than he already was. Fuck, Scott deser--

Suddenly, a rope wrapped itself around Scott’s left arm and stopped his descent. Hard. Hopefully, it was only torn stuff, they didn’t have time to deal with dislocation--

Wait.

Scott wasn’t dead if he could think about these kinds of things.

Blinking, he looked at his arm to see the familiar rope of his grappling hook around his forearm. Moving his eyesight to look past that, he saw the wide, blue eyes of his baby brother struggling to stay on top. The Hood was using his non-broken side to try and climb his way back up to safety. Huh, that’s weird. When did Alan get ahold of that? Scott must have dropped it during his scuffle with--

That’s when it hit Scott.

Alan saved them both.

Alan saved them both.

And it would be all for jack shit if Scott didn’t get his ass up there to help.

Panicking, Scott gripped the rope and started to ascend. He had two working arms and a smother complex to boot; it wasn’t long before he overtook a struggling Hood, who could only use one arm and a weakened brother (that bastard was so lucky Alan had a literal heart of gold).

Flinging his arms over the edge and pulling himself up-- and shrugging off the extra help Alan offered. Save your strength, baby bro-- Scott was in a much calmer search-and-destroy mode. He yanked his evil look-a-like up, turned him on his stomach, pinned him down, and before he could even watch Alan blink, “Sign something.”

There, now he watched Alan blink.

Scott pulled out one of his best ‘big brother’ smiles ever, “Tell me something in ASL. I don’t think The Hood learned that kind of etiquette.”

The body beneath him growled, making Alan jump and Scott tighten not only his hold but his glare. Further prove big brother’s point, why don’t cha? He lost the angry look immediately to grin at Alan once more, who seemed to be slowly getting the picture. With a gulp, the blonde slowly strung together a sentence that Scott had to laugh at, just a little bit.

Damn, could you teach me to fight like that, Scooter?

Nodding his head, Scott had to concede, “Sure. Consider it a graduation present.”

Alan blinked again, and the immense relief that washed over the boy’s shoulders would be enough to banish nightmares for at least a couple of days. Suddenly, The Hood’s disguise blinked out of existence, making both brothers jump that time. Scott didn’t falter in his grip, however. This man was going down right here and now, Scott thought darkly, staring at the prone body beneath his.

Scott saw Alan continue to sign out of the corner of his eye, You know you look like shit, right?

Scott chuckled. Alan was always able to put a smile on his face no matter the circumstances, “Yeah, well, kindred spirits, little bro.”

Scott was probably as pale as Alan was with such lack of sleep and food. Running on what was essentially a prolonged PTSD attack wasn’t healthy in the slightest, and no doubt whatever kind of bruises and scratches The Hood gave him didn’t help, however, seeing hope fill those deep-blue eyes when Alan learned he was truly being saved drowned everything out, including the way those freckles were getting lost in those eye bags.

Yeah, their entire family probably looked like shit, and the recovery process was going to be even shittier, but they were going to suffer through it together as a family would.

That made it all worth it.

Shuffling himself so one arm was free while the other kept The Hood pinned, Scott held it out towards Alan. The flinch the youngest made tore a hole in Scott’s heart that was only slightly patched when Alan leaned into the warmth and safety of his biggest bro. Long recovery process, remember? Regardless, Alan still took to the hug like a dehydrated zebra did a pond, and that was good enough for Scott.

The Hood groaned underneath them.

Yep, good enough.

[bountyofbeads]

Live updates: China again changes coronavirus reporting criteria, as prison outbreak raises alarm; cases soar in South Korea

By Gerry Shih, Simon Denyer, Teo Armus and Miriam Berger | Published

Feb. 21, 2020 at 12:34 p.m. EST | Washington Post | Posted Feb 21, 2020

PART 2/2 CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS POST :

_____

12:25 P.M. ET

WUHAN PLANS TO BUILD 19 MAKESHIFT HOSPITALS

Wuhan, the Chinese city hardest hit by coronavirus, plans to build 19 additional makeshift hospitals to care for patients, health officials announced Friday, according to Singapore’s Straits Times.

Hu Yabo, deputy mayor of the city, said the ad hoc hospitals will offer 30,000 beds beginning Tuesday, the newspaper reported. They will be equipped with CT scanners, ECG heart monitoring devices, and other necessary medical equipment.

A factory that will be converted to a hospital will have the largest number of beds among the other temporary hospitals, the paper reported.

Hu said that Wuhan has 13 locations, including gyms and convention centers, which have been transformed into temporary medical facilities for ill patients, in addition to 9,313 beds for those with mild symptoms, the Straits Times reported.

A total of 13,348 beds are still open at these makeshift hospitals to receive coronavirus patients, according to China’s Global Times.

More than 70 medical professionals have been dispatched to treat ill patients in the city, where more than 45,000 cases of coronavirus were reported as of Thursday, according to the Straits Times.

By LATESHIA BEACHUM

_____

12:00 P.M. ET

Tokyo’s governor rejects London mayoral candidate’s call to host the Olympics

Tokyo’s governor called a London mayoral candidate’s comments “not appropriate” Friday in response to his suggestion that the British city could host the Olympics as Japan deals with the coronavirus, Reuters reported. 

Earlier this week, conservative London mayoral candidate Shaun Bailey offered his hometown to host the Olympics.

“Given the ongoing disruption caused by the coronavirus outbreak, I urge the Olympic Committee to seriously consider how London could stand ready to host the Olympics should the need arise,” Bailey told British newspaper City A.M. on Tuesday. 

Bailey went on to say that London has the experience and infrastructure in place to host the July event, as they previously hosted the 2012 Summer Olympics. His comments, which he later repeated in a tweet Wednesday, received a mixed bag of criticism and support. 

Yuriko Koike, Tokyo’s mayor, said Bailey was trying to make coronavirus a mayoral issue for election, according to Agence France-Presse. Koike said the virus in her country has attracted global attention mainly because of the cruise ship, which she pointed out was a British vessel. 

Tokyo has no plans not to host the sporting event, despite placing restrictions on its March 1 Tokyo marathon and another event, Agence France-Presse reported.

By LATESHIA BEACHUM

_____

11:50 a.m.

FILIPINO REPATRIATES FROM CHINA CLEARED OF CORONAVIRUS

MANILA — Almost 50 people in quarantine, mostly repatriates from the epicenter of the coronavirus outbreak in China, have been declared virus-free and can now return home.

Health officials announced Friday that the 49 individuals, who were in isolation for two weeks, were “well and safe.” Thirty were Filipinos previously based in Hubei province, while the rest were part of the repatriation team.

A send-off will be held for them Saturday, ahead of the arrival of new repatriates from the cruise ship Diamond Princess docked in Japan. At least 44 Filipinos on board the ship have contracted the virus. There were 538 Filipinos on the Diamond Princess, mostly crew members. The government is expecting between 460 to 480 to return to the Philippines on Sunday.

By REGINA CABATO

_____

11:30 A.M. ET

WHO SAYS REDUCTION IN CASES IS DUE TO CHINA’S CHANGING METRICS

World Health Organization officials said Friday that the number of coronavirus cases in China have dropped because of changes China has made — yet again — in how it is counting those numbers.

The change in counting methods has frustrated and concerned epidemiologists around the world and sowed confusion in general, but WHO officials took pains to defend China’s decision, even as they appeared to admit that they have not been told the exact reason for the methodology change.

China started off counting only cases confirmed by laboratory testing, which led to concerns that the country was undercounting cases, especially as the number of cases climbed and overran the ability of Chinese labs to keep up. The country then switched to including cases that were “clinically confirmed” by doctors and clinicians in hospitals but not yet confirmed by labs. Then, the country announced Friday that it was switching back to counting only lab-confirmed cases.

“This may indicate the system in Wuhan has regained ability to test all suspected cases,” the WHO’s Tedros Adhanom said. When pressed on why China had made the previous change to including clinically confirmed cases, Tedros said, “We also understand they were using clinically confirmed cases; it could be because lab capacity was low because of the big number of cases.”

Global health experts have expressed concerns about the transparency of Chinese officials amid the outbreak, with many worrying that there is internal pressure by the country’s Communist Party to manipulate its numbers to show that it is making progress — a common practice among Chinese officials when it comes to such statistics as economic benchmarks and pollution measures.

WHO official Sylvie Briand defended China’s change, saying: “As we observed in other epidemics, it’s not unusual to count things in different ways as an epidemic evolves. … What is important in epidemiology when you observe an epidemic is to remember that surveillance or monitoring a disease aims at taking the best possible decision. It’s really numbers for action, not numbers for numbers.”

Another frustration regarding China’s transparency is the inability of global experts to gain access to the epicenter of the outbreak in Wuhan. While WHO teams have been working in Beijing, Sichuan and Guangdong, Tedros said that on Saturday a WHO may finally be able to travel to Wuhan on Saturday.

By WILLIAM WAN

_____

11:20 P.M. ET

TWO ADDITIONAL CASES OF CORONAVIRUS CONFIRMED IN UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

The United Arab Emirates announced two new cases of coronavirus Friday, in addition to nine that had been identified in the past few weeks.

The two new patients had come in contact with a Chinese citizen who was identified as having contracted the virus Sunday, the Ministry of Health and Prevention said. The 37-year-old was the sixth Chinese citizen found to have the disease in the United Arab Emirates, whose Dubai International Airport is one of the world’s largest travel hubs.

The ministry said the two new patients, one from the Philippines and one from Bangladesh, are both in stable condition.

The two new cases bring the total number of people with covid-19 in UAE to 11, three of whom had been confirmed as fully recovered. As of Sunday, six remained under intensive care, the ministry announced then. There has been no update provided on the condition of the six since.

The statement came on the heels of the announcement of the first virus case in another Arab country, Lebanon. Health ministers from gulf states held an emergency meeting in Saudi Arabia’s capital Wednesday “to discuss growing concerns over the novel coronavirus,” the Emirati News Agency said.

By SARAH DADOUCH

_____

10:50 A.M. ET

DOW DROPS 300 POINTS AS EVIDENCE OF CORONAVIRUS FALLOUT CONTINUES TO EMERGE

U.S. stock markets plunged Friday as signs of the coronavirus’ chilling effect on the global economy continued to surface in earnings and manufacturing data. The Dow Jones industrial average was down more than 300 points in midmorning trading.

Investor fears were reflected in gold’s extended rally, which lifted the safe-haven 1.3 percent to a seven-year high. Meanwhile, the yield on the 30-year Treasury fell to an all-time low, suggesting that investors’ confidence in the economy has been shaken.

“While the number of new cases of coronavirus continues to slow in China, the spread outside the country is escalating and it seems the market is waking up to the impact on both individual companies and the wider economy,” Russ Mould, investment director at AJ Bell, wrote in commentary Friday. “Profit warnings linked to the health crisis, as companies are either hit by slowing consumer demand in China or impact on their supply chain, are starting to trickle out with the impact on iPhone sales revealed by Apple earlier this week the most high profile of these.”

Fresh Purchasing Managers index data revealed that U.S. economic output shrank for the first time since October 2013 in January, the contraction driven by a severe drop-off in the services sector. Services business activity fell to 49.4 in February, down from 53.4 in January, the report showed. Figures under 50 indicate a contraction, while figures over 50 indicate growth.

Read more: Dow drops 300 points as evidence of coronavirus fallout continues to emerge

By TAYLOR TELFORD

_____

10:10 A.M. ET

PYONGYANG MARATHON CANCELED OVER CORONAVIRUS FEARS, TOUR COMPANY SAYS

The Pyongyang marathon in April has been canceled as North Korea shuts its borders and limits travel, according to a tour agency that operates there.

The marathon, which snakes around North Korea’s capital city, has been open to international competitors since 2000. It is recognized as one of about 100 “label road races” by World Athletics, the international governing body for athletics and most running sports.

North Korean officials and the World Health Organization have both said the country is free of any cases of the coronavirus. Nonetheless, analysts of the isolated country have speculated that there could be cases after Pyongyang ordered schools closed for the next month and put foreigners under a month-long quarantine.

During the height of the Ebola epidemic, the 2015 Pyongyang marathon was closed and later reopened to foreigners, Reuters reported at the time.

A separate marathon in September is still set to go ahead in Pyongyang, according to Young Pioneer Tours, one of several companies that operates trips for foreigners to North Korea.

Otto Warmbier, a U.S. college student, had entered the country on a Young Pioneer Tours trip before his arrest and death.

By TEO ARMUS

_____

WILL UPDATE THROUGHOUT THE DAY

*********

[ireadyabooks]

New Year, New Books!

Happy 2019, book nerds! Now that we’ve cleaned up the confetti from New Year’s Eve, it’s time to get serious about some resolutions: reading as many books as we possibly can in 2019! 

If your TBR pile needs some love, we’ve got you covered. Here are some of our faves coming your way in early 2019! 

The Love and Lies of Rukhsana Ali

Available January 29th

Seventeen-year-old Rukhsana Ali has always been fascinated by the universe around her and the laws of physics that keep everything in order. But her life at home isn't so absolute. Unable to come out to her conservative Muslim parents, she keeps that part of her identity hidden. And that means keeping her girlfriend, Ariana, a secret from them too. Luckily, only a few more months stand between her carefully monitored life at home and a fresh start at Caltech in the fall. But when Rukhsana's mom catches her and Ariana together, her future begins to collapse around her. Devastated and confused, Rukhsana's parents whisk her off to stay with their extended family in Bangladesh where, along with the loving arms of her grandmother and cousins, she is met with a world of arranged marriages, religious tradition, and intolerance. Fortunately, Rukhsana finds allies along the way and, through reading her grandmother's old diary, finds the courage to take control of her future and fight for her love.

Amazon

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IndieBound

Spin

Available January 29th

Even in murder, the music lives on. When rising star Paris Secord (aka DJ ParSec) is found dead on her turntables, it sends the local music scene reeling. No one is feeling that grief more than her shunned pre-fame best friend, Kya, and ParSec's chief groupie, Fuse -- two sworn enemies who happened to be the ones who discovered her body. The police have few leads, and when the trail quickly turns cold, the authorities don't seem to be pushing too hard to investigate further. But nobody counted on Paris's deeply loyal fans, ParSec Nation, or the outrage that would drive Fuse and Kya to work together. As ParSec Nation takes to social media and the streets in their crusade for justice, Fuse and Kya start digging into Paris's past, stumbling across a deadly secret. With new info comes new motives. New suspects. And a fandom that will stop at nothing in their obsessive quest for answers, not even murder...

Amazon

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IndieBound

The Deceiver’s Heart

Available February 26th

In this sequel to the instant New York Times bestseller The Traitor's Game, Kestra Dallisor has finally gained possession of the Olden Blade. With the dagger in her control, she attempts to destroy the tyrannical Lord Endrick. But when Kestra fails, the king strips her of her memory, and leaves her weak and uncertain, bound to obey him. Heartbroken, Simon is desperate to return Kestra to the rebel she was, but refuses to use magic to heal her. With untrusting Coracks and Halderians threatening to capture and kill her, and war looming on the horizon, Kestra and Simon will have to learn to trust each other again if they have any hope of surviving. But can a heart once broken ever be healed?

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IndieBound

The Music of What Happens

Available February 26th

Max: Chill. Sports. Video games. Gay and not a big deal, not to him, not to his mom, not to his buddies. And a secret: An encounter with an older kid that makes it hard to breathe, one that he doesn't want to think about, ever. Jordan: The opposite of chill. Poetry. His "wives" and the Chandler Mall. Never been kissed and searching for Mr. Right, who probably won't like him anyway. And a secret: A spiraling out of control mother, and the knowledge that he's the only one who can keep the family from falling apart. Throw in a rickety, 1980s-era food truck called Coq Au Vinny. Add in prickly pears, cloud eggs, and a murky idea of what's considered locally sourced and organic. Place it all in Mesa, Arizona, in June, where the temp regularly hits 114. And top it off with a touch of undeniable chemistry between utter opposites. Over the course of one summer, two boys will have to face their biggest fears and decide what they're willing to risk -- to get the thing they want the most.

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IndieBound

Pretend She’s Here

Available February 26th

Emily Lonergan's best friend died last year. And Emily hasn't stopped grieving. Lizzie Porter was lively, loud, and fun -- Emily's better half. Emily can't accept that she's gone. When Lizzie's parents and her sister come back to town to visit, Emily's heartened to see them. The Porters understand her pain. They miss Lizzie desperately, too. Desperately enough to do something crazy. Something unthinkable. Suddenly, Emily's life is hurtling toward a very dark place -- and she's not sure she'll ever be able to return to what she once knew was real.

Amazon

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IndieBound

Last of Her Name

Available February 26th

Sixteen years ago, rebellion swept the galaxy known as the Belt of Jewels. Every member of the Leonov royal family was murdered--down to their youngest child, Princess Anya--making way for the Union government to seize power. But Stacia doesn't think much about politics. She spends her days half-wild, rambling her father's vineyard with her friends, Clio and Pol. That all changes when a Union ship appears burning through the sky, bearing the leader of the Union, the Direktor Eminent himself, who declares that Stacia's sleepy village is a den of empire loyalists. Even more shocking, the Direktor claims that Princess Anya Leonova is alive--and Stacia is the lost princess As their home explodes into chaos, Pol smuggles Stacia to a hidden escape ship, leaving Clio in the hands of the Union. With everything she knows threading away into the stars, Stacia sets her heart on a single mission: She will find and rescue Clio, even with the whole galaxy on her trail.

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IndieBound

That’s Not What I Heard

Available February 26th

What did you hear? Kimberly Landis-Lilley and Teddy Lin are over. Yes, the Kim and Teddy broke up. At least that's what Phil Spooner thinks he overheard and then told Jess Howard, Kim's best friend. Something about Teddy not liking Kim's Instas? Or was it that Teddy is moving to Italy and didn't want to do long distance? Or that Kim slid into someone else's DMs? Jess told her boyfriend, Elvis, that he needs to be on Kim's side. Especially if he wants to keep her as his girlfriend. But Elvis is also Teddy's best friend. Now, Kim's run out of school for the day. Jess is furious. Elvis is confused. And half the lunch period won't talk to Teddy. Even the teachers have taken sides. William Henry Harrison High will never be the same again!

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

IndieBound

Tell Me Everything

Available February 26th

Your secret's safe...until it's not. Ivy's always preferred to lay low, unlike her best friend Harold, who has taken up a hundred activities as sophomore year begins. But Ivy has her own distraction: the new anonymous art-sharing app, VEIL. Being on the sidelines has made Ivy a skilled observer, and soon she discovers that some of the anonymous posters are actually her classmates. While she's still too scared to put her own creations on the app, Ivy realizes that she can contribute in an even better way -- by making gifts for the artists she's discovered. The acts of kindness give her such a rush that, when Ivy suspects Harold is keeping a secret, she decides to go all in. Forget gifts -- Harold needs a major party. But when her good intentions thrust her into the spotlight, Ivy's carefully curated world is thrown into chaos. Now she has to find the courage to stand out... or risk losing everything and everyone she loves most.

Amazon

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IndieBound

Mike

Available February 26th

Mike is the imaginary friend and projection of a repressed wish that won’t go away until Floyd confronts both his greatest fear and greatest desire: to succeed. MEET FLOYD. He's a tennis star. Possibly good enough to win Wimbledon one day. MEET MIKE. He's... different. Apart from anything else, Floyd seems to be the only one who can see him. But Mike must have appeared for a reason. And finding out why is perhaps the most important thing Floyd will ever do...

Amazon

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IndieBound

Sorry Not Sorry

Available February 26th

Janelle and Alyssa used to be friends. Best friends. They knew each other's deepest secrets and went through the hardest times together. But that was then. Now? Their status is somewhere between frenemies and full-on rivals. Janelle is all about making a difference in her community, while Alyssa reigns over the shallowest girls in school. Until the day Alyssa collapses and is rushed to the hospital. Suddenly, everyone knows about her declining health and race against time. And, in a stunning twist of fate, the only person who might be able to save Alyssa's life -- is Janelle. But will the girls' bitter past get in the way of their futures?

Amazon

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IndieBound

Brawler

Available March 26th

Eddie MacIntyre--Mac to a handful of friends--is Pennsylvania's most promising wrestler. His future is bright with scholarship offers and the dream of helping his struggling mom. But then comes a fateful match at the state championship, when his famous rage consumes him and he assaults a referee. In an instant, Mac loses all he and his mom have worked to build since his abusive father was locked up years ago. Facing arrest, Mac runs away to another town, where he is taken in by a shady promoter who has followed his career. He recruits Mac into Brawlers, an illegal underground fighting ring run by a gangland boss. This is a bloodsport that has no rules . . . but offers plenty of reward. Mac teams up with Khajee, a girl with the fighting skills he'll need to learn to survive . . . and her own dark past tying her to the head of the ring. Together the two must figure out their place in a world that hasn't been kind to them . . . and forge a future that could be.

Amazon

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IndieBound

Quarantine: A Love Story

Available March 26th

Oliver wants a girlfriend, and there's a girl back home who might be interested in him. The problem is, he has to spend his spring break on a volunteer trip in the Dominican Republic. Flora, on the other hand, isn't really looking for a boyfriend. She just wants to end a miserable spring break visiting her dad and her new stepmom in the D.R. The solution to both their problems? Get back home to New York ASAP. Sadly, they won't be getting there anytime soon. Their hopes are dashed when Flora's impulsiveness lands them in quarantine -- just the two of them. Now, the two teens must come together in order to survive life in a bubble for 30 days. In that time, love will bloom. But is it the real thing, or just a placebo effect?

Amazon

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IndieBound

I Don’t Want To Be Crazy

Available March 26th

This is a true story of growing up, breaking down, and coming to grips with a psychological disorder. When Samantha Schutz first left home for college, she was excited by the possibilities -- freedom from parents, freedom from a boyfriend who was reckless with her affections, freedom from the person she was supposed to be. At first, she reveled in the independence . . . but as pressures increased, she began to suffer anxiety attacks that would leave her mentally shaken and physically incapacitated. Thus began a hard road of discovery and coping, powerfully rendered in this poetry memoir.

Amazon

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IndieBound

Dear Ally, How Do You Write a Book?

Available March 26th

Have you always wanted to write a book, but don't know where to start? Or maybe you're really great at writing the first few chapters . . . but you never quite make it to the end? Or do you finally have a finished manuscript, but you're not sure what to do next? Fear not -- if you have writing-related questions, this book has answers! Whether you're writing for fun or to build a career, bestselling author Ally Carter is ready to help you make your work shine. With honesty, encouragement, and humor, Ally's ready here to answer the questions that writers struggle with the most. Filled with practical tips and helpful advice, Dear Ally is a treasure for aspiring writers at any stage of their careers. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at how books get made, from idea to publication, and gives you insight into the writing processes of some of the biggest and most talented YA authors writing today.

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IndieBound

[lincolnamericanuniverstiy]

10 Reasons You Should Choose A Career In Medicine And Become A Doctor

#2 Affordable Medical Education Is A Reality Now  Gone are the days when medical education was just for riches. Earlier, to pursue a career in medicine, most people were forced to opt for costly education options like MBBS in USA and other expensive countries.However, with time, medical institutions like Lincoln American University have evolved which are working to bridge the gap between means and the ability to pursue medical education and providing affordable yet quality medical education in Caribbean where living and other costs are comparatively much cheaper, among other benefits of pursuing MD in Caribbean. #3 Global Respect And Job Security  While respect and job security should not be the top motivational factor for pursuing a career in medicine, it’s a good perk of being a physician. Once you are a doctor, you are secure in all ways and have assured job security. Have you ever found a doctor without a job? A sure no because that is just not possible. In the dearth of medical professionals, all doctors are in high demand all the time. That’s why a doctor gives you job security like no other profession. The medical profession is the most respected profession in the world. No matter where you work, you as a doctor, lead a life of dignity and respect. Further, doctors are one of the highest paid professionals globally. Depending on your specialization, experience, and expertise, as a doctor, you can earn well above US$ 100,000 p.a. to above million dollars a year and later on, if you plan to open your own clinic or hospital or decide to go for the private practice of medicine, the opportunities are endless.[i] As per PayScale, the world’s leading website for information about salary, benefits and compensation, the average salary of MD Holders is $211,000 which is enormous.[ii] Also, as per consulting firm Merritt Hawkins & Associates' 2012 Review of Physician Recruiting Incentives, as reported by Forbes, here is what doctors are paid depending on their field of specialization:[iii][i] https://www.forbes.com/sites/jacquelynsmith/2012/07/20/the-best-and-worst-paying-jobs-for-doctors-2/#15303e60a2a3[ii] https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Degree=Doctor_of_Medicine_(MD)/Salary[iii] https://www.forbes.com/sites/jacquelynsmith/2012/07/20/the-best-and-worst-paying-jobs-for-doctors-2/#15303e60a2a3Being a doctor is a dream for millions. While the goal is common: “I want to become a doctor,” reasons to become a doctor are different for different medical aspirants. Some want to provide healthcare services to poor; some want to provide medical services in underserved and rural areas, some want to earn the respect that comes with the “doctor” label while others simply see it as an excellent economic opportunity and a symbol of success.

Well, if you have decided to become a doctor for a noble reason, good for you. If you are a student who is not sure about going for a medical degree and who is afraid of the question “why do you want to become a doctor?”, you have landed at the right place.

For you and all other students who are on the verge of choosing a career or the ones who are struggling to find what to do with their career life, here are the top 10 reasons to help you let know why a career in medicine is a right choice and why you should become a doctor:

#1 World Needs More Doctors

The world has never seen enough doctors and people look forward to youngsters like you to choose this noble profession, become a doctor, give healthcare they need and make the world a better place.

In 2006, World Health Organization (WHO) reported an estimated shortage of 4.3 million doctors and healthcare professionals worldwide and since then, the demand for healthcare professionals had not seen the light of the day when supply is enough.[i]

WHO prescribes a doctor-population ratio of 1:1000.[ii] However, very few countries have been successful in maintaining that humble ratio, so far. Here is the doctor-population ratio of some of the countries and continents, per recent reports:

You can easily infer the following conclusions from the table above regarding shortage and demand of doctors in the world:

·        Very few developed countries in the world like Australia, USA, France, and Germany enjoy the luxury of having more doctors than the recommended minimum;

·        Developing countries like India and under-developed countries like Pakistan are a bit closer to achieve the prescribed number of doctors and need to increase their numbers to achieve the goal of healthcare for all; and

·        Poor and least developed countries like Afghanistan and Bangladesh are in desperate need to have more doctors to look after their increasing population.

Data speaks better than anything else, and here, it clearly tells us that the world needs few more millions of doctors to ensure healthcare for all.

“Available statistics show that over 45% of WHO Member States report to have less than 1 physician

per 1000 population.” – World Health Organization

#2 Affordable Medical Education Is A Reality Now

 Gone are the days when medical education was just for riches. Earlier, to pursue a career in medicine, most people were forced to opt for costly education options like MBBS in USA and other expensive countries.

However, with time, medical institutions like Lincoln American University have evolved which are working to bridge the gap between means and the ability to pursue medical education and providing affordable yet quality medical education in Caribbean where living and other costs are comparatively much cheaper, among other benefits of pursuing MD in Caribbean.

#3 Global Respect And Job Security

 While respect and job security should not be the top motivational factor for pursuing a career in medicine, it’s a good perk of being a physician. Once you are a doctor, you are secure in all ways and have assured job security.

Have you ever found a doctor without a job? A sure no because that is just not possible. In the dearth of medical professionals, all doctors are in high demand all the time. That’s why a doctor gives you job security like no other profession.

The medical profession is the most respected profession in the world. No matter where you work, you as a doctor, lead a life of dignity and respect.

Further, doctors are one of the highest paid professionals globally. Depending on your specialization, experience, and expertise, as a doctor, you can earn well above US$ 100,000 p.a. to above million dollars a year and later on, if you plan to open your own clinic or hospital or decide to go for the private practice of medicine, the opportunities are endless.[i]

As per PayScale, the world’s leading website for information about salary, benefits and compensation, the average salary of MD Holders is $211,000 which is enormous.[ii] Also, as per consulting firm Merritt Hawkins & Associates' 2012 Review of Physician Recruiting Incentives, as reported by Forbes, here is what doctors are paid depending on their field of specialization:[iii]

#4 Doctors Are Second Only To God

 That may seem to be an overwhelming statement but very real. Becoming a doctor, you don’t save a single life, but several lives and their families. The satisfaction of saving lives goes far beyond the feeling of anything.

People say that God performs miracles. We agree, and we say that doctors perform miracles too. Being a doctor is an honor and a responsibility of a lifetime. During the times of health crisis, there are only two things people look up to in hope of life: God and doctors.

#5 You Will Be Happier

 Do you know the secret to happiness? Well, we do. If you want to be happy, make others happy, and you will be happy. That’s the evergreen formula of happiness.

By becoming a doctor, you take away the pain and sufferings of others by giving them medical treatment and healthcare. As a doctor, you are a continuous source of happiness for many people and their families.

When you give happiness to others, you are the happiest person of the moment. If you don’t believe it, try it. Try to make only one person around you happy and notice the feeling you have after that.

While becoming a doctor has many perks, your happiness tops the perks of the medical profession. Chasing the dream of becoming a doctor, is not just the pursuit of a great career but a pursuit of happiness too.

#6 Join A League of Elite People – Feel The Proud

Once you become a doctor, you become part of an elite community and experience the proud of being a medical professional. If you don’t realize what we are talking about, let us help you achieve. Imagine a doctor who you know and ask yourself – “what’s my perception about that doctor?” We’re sure you’ll get some good thoughts the moment you think about the doctors you know.

We all have faced times when a doctor comes to our rescue, took charge of the dark time and ignited a light of hope. Being in the situation of doing the same thing for other people is just unparallel that can’t be compared to anything else in life.

#7 You Will Live A Worthier Life

We genuinely believe that every single life is worthy but when it comes to doctors, we are a little biased. We think that life of every single doctor is a bit worthier! After all, a doctor cures many lives.

Once you become a doctor, not only will you consider your life more valuable, but others will too.

#8 It’s Not The Destination, But Experiences That Count

 While we all aim to achieve specific goals in our lives, we all know that we enjoy the journey more than we appreciate the realization of our goals. While becoming a doctor is a kind of destination and achievement for you, the experiences that you will have during your medical education, before becoming a doctor,  and clinical challenges that you’ll face as a medical practitioner, after becoming a doctor, will shape your life for good.

Field of medicine is fascinating too. Being in a position of understanding the human body and knowing how to bring it back on track and the experiences in between are the ones that you will cherish for your lifetime.

Each time you cure a patient, the patient will thank you, and you will thank yourself for being a doctor!

#9 Diverse Career Opportunities, Globally

 Being a doctor prepares you for a global world and international career opportunities. If you go for medical education from a well-recognized medical university, you get the eligibility to practice medicine worldwide including popular regions like India, USA, Canada, Caribbean, etc.

Further, as a doctor, you have a vast fleet of career opportunities to choose from. Postgraduation, you can choose to be a surgeon, a medical researcher, a medical professor, a management professional in healthcare institutions and much more. Being a doctor doesn’t mean that you have to be just with patients 24/7. There are many more options to choose from, and all of those contribute to the healthcare ecosystem, in some way or the other.

#10 One Reason That Only You Have: Your Own Calling To Become A Doctor

 There can be millions of reasons to pursue a career in medicine and become a doctor that can be listed here. However, the most important reason is your own calling. Pathway to become a doctor is not an easy one and if you want to become a doctor, you need self-motivation and an unshakable reason for pursuing a career in medicine that should come from within.

While the nine reasons that are listed above are great causes to go for medical education, they are incomplete without the particular reason that only you have. So, ask yourself once again – “Why I want to become a doctor?”. Adhere to your intuition, and you will get your calling that will stay with you throughout your medical journey.

Deciding to pursue a career is not an easy task. To help medical aspirants and youngsters like you, we crafted this guide to help you crystal clear why you should become a doctor. Hope, it will help you in deciding the right path.

So, if you have not yet made your mindset, don’t worry. Take your time and think about it. For more guidance and free counseling, you can contact our counselors for guidance:

Call/ WhatsApp (India): +91 9205890239

Call/ WhatsApp (Guyana): +592 225 2241

Call (Other Countries): +592 673 6367

Call Toll-Free: 1800 843 9595

Email Us: Info@laumed.org

Visit: www.laumed.org

If you have made up your mind and have decided to onboard the tough yet exciting and fruitful medical journey, we invite you to come to Lincoln American University, one of the fastest growing medical universities in Caribbean offering quality medical education in South America region.

Since our inception, our focus has been to provide affordable yet quality medical education in Guyana to students from all around the world. Thanks to our efforts, 150+ students from different countries have already enrolled in our MD Program and studying medicine in America, moving forward with their dream of becoming a doctor, each day.

We invite you to apply to 5-Year MD Program of Lincoln American University and start your medical education in South America. You can apply online or contact our admission department for help in getting admission.

Best of Luck!

[i] https://www.forbes.com/sites/jacquelynsmith/2012/07/20/the-best-and-worst-paying-jobs-for-doctors-2/#15303e60a2a3

[ii] https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Degree=Doctor_of_Medicine_(MD)/Salary

[iii] https://www.forbes.com/sites/jacquelynsmith/2012/07/20/the-best-and-worst-paying-jobs-for-doctors-2/#15303e60a2a3

[i]

[i] https://www.who.int/gho/health_workforce/physicians_density/en/

[diseasewithtreatment]

Treating a mild piles (hemorrhoids) outbreak without surgery often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, home remedies, and over-the-counter treatments. Here are some strategies that can help alleviate symptoms:

Lifestyle Changes

Dietary Modifications:

High-Fiber Diet: Increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other high-fiber foods to soften stools and prevent straining.

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help keep stools soft.

Exercise: Regular physical activity can help prevent constipation and reduce pressure on hemorrhoidal veins.

Avoid Straining: Try not to strain during bowel movements, as this can exacerbate hemorrhoids.

Regular Bowel Habits: Go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge to have a bowel movement to avoid straining.

Home Remedies

Warm Sitz Baths: Soak the anal area in warm water for 10-15 minutes several times a day to reduce pain and swelling.

Cold Compresses: Apply ice packs or cold compresses to the affected area to reduce swelling and discomfort.

Topical Treatments: Use over-the-counter creams, ointments, or pads containing witch hazel or hydrocortisone to relieve pain and itching.

Maintain Good Hygiene: Keep the anal area clean and dry. Use gentle, unscented wipes or moist toilet paper after bowel movements.

Over-the-Counter Medications

Pain Relievers: Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin to alleviate pain and discomfort.

Fiber Supplements: If you’re not getting enough fiber from your diet, consider using fiber supplements like psyllium or methylcellulose.

Top Doctors in Bangladesh for Treating Piles

Consulting with a specialist can help manage the condition effectively. Here are some top doctors in Bangladesh for treating piles:

Prof. Dr. A. K. M. Fazlul Haque

Specialty: Colorectal Surgery

Affiliation: Square Hospital, Dhaka

Profile: Renowned for his expertise in colorectal surgeries and non-surgical treatments for hemorrhoids.

Prof. Dr. Md. Ali Asgar Morol

Specialty: General and Colorectal Surgery

Affiliation: United Hospital, Dhaka

Profile: Experienced in minimally invasive treatments for piles and other colorectal conditions.

Dr. A. Z. M. Shafiqur Rahman

Specialty: General Surgery

Affiliation: Popular Diagnostic Centre, Dhaka

Profile: Known for his expertise in treating piles with both surgical and non-surgical methods.

Dr. Sk. Md. Faiz Ahmed

Specialty: General and Laparoscopic Surgery

Affiliation: Apollo Hospitals Dhaka

Profile: Skilled in non-surgical management of hemorrhoids and other anorectal disorders.

For a personalized treatment plan, it's essential to consult with the best doctor in Bangladesh who can evaluate your specific condition and recommend the best course of action.

[cardiologybd]

Intra-aortic Balloon Pump (IABP) Therapy in Bangladesh

Intra-aortic Balloon Pump (IABP) Therapy in Bangladesh: Use and Efficacy

In Bangladesh, where heart disease remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, innovative technologies offer a beacon of hope for struggling hearts. Among these, Intra-aortic Balloon Pump (IABP) therapy emerges as a powerful tool, providing temporary support and boosting blood flow when the heart weakens. This guide delves into the workings of IABP therapy, its efficacy in Bangladesh, and how it empowers individuals with severe heart conditions to regain their strength and fight for a better future.

Understanding the Struggle: When the Heart Falters

Imagine your heart, the tireless engine of your life, struggling to pump blood efficiently. This can occur due to various factors, like heart attack, cardiomyopathy, or complications from surgery. The weakened heart fails to meet the body's oxygen demands, leading to symptoms like fatigue, breathlessness, and organ dysfunction.

IABP: A Helping Hand for the Faltering Heart

Think of IABP as a temporary pacemaker for blood flow. A thin, flexible catheter is inserted through the groin artery and positioned in the aorta, the main artery leading out of the heart. This balloon inflates and deflates in sync with the heartbeat, mimicking the pumping action and helping push blood more effectively through the arteries to vital organs. Benefits of IABP Therapy in Bangladesh - Improves blood flow: Increased blood flow to vital organs alleviates symptoms like fatigue, breathlessness, and chest pain. - Supports the heart: Provides temporary assistance to the weakened heart, allowing it to recover and regain strength. - Reduces mortality: Studies have shown IABP therapy can significantly improve survival rates in patients with severe heart failure and cardiogenic shock. - Minimally invasive: Compared to open-heart surgery, IABP offers a less invasive approach with quicker recovery times and reduced risks.

Accessibility and Efficacy in Bangladesh

IABP therapy is increasingly available in major Bangladeshi hospitals like: - National Heart Foundation of Bangladesh - Square Hospitals - Chittagong Medical College Hospital - Private cardiac centers with advanced cardiac care units Experienced cardiologists and trained medical teams ensure the safe and effective application of IABP technology for eligible patients. Finding the Right Specialist Consult a cardiologist specializing in heart failure or critical care to discuss whether IABP therapy is right for you. They will evaluate your medical history, symptoms, and diagnostic tests to determine the best treatment strategy.

Taking Control of Your Heart Health

IABP therapy offers a valuable tool for managing severe heart failure in Bangladesh. By understanding its role, efficacy, and access, you can make informed decisions about your care and empower your heart to fight back. Remember, early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing heart disease and improving outcomes. Learn More on CardiologyBangladesh Read the full article

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Promising Accessible and Affordable Health Care on this 76th Independence Day

India gained independence on August 15, 1947 and this year we completed 75 glorious years of pride, harmony, and unity. Our brave freedom fighters fought British rule for over 200 years and also faced numerous challenges during its journey to freedom. While we are celebrating the diamond jubilee of our freedom in good spirits and unity, we should not forget the country's ongoing fight to make healthcare available and affordable for all.

India has two sides to its healthcare sector, one with silver steeled high rise buildings providing expensive and possibly the best care, and the other with dilapidated buildings having age-old equipment and minimal resources in terms of doctors, nurses, support staff, and facilities. Silver steeled buildings are only available to a small percentage of the population who live in cities, whereas dilapidated hospitals are flocked by the underprivileged and less fortunate sections of the society. To mark the 76th Independence Day, let’s take the responsibility of improving the healthcare system in India so that it is accessible and can be afforded by everyone.

According to a study published in The Lancet published in 2018, each year, nearly 122 Indians per 1,00,000 die due to poor quality of medical care, making India's death rate worse than that of Brazil (74), Russia (91), China (46) and South Africa (93) and even its neighbours Pakistan (119), Nepal (93), Bangladesh (57), and Sri Lanka (51). With these figures in mind, working towards a better healthcare system is not only necessary, but critical too. Trust-in Hospital in Bangalore is working to improve these figures by making healthcare more accessible and affordable to all. This hospital steers all its effort in keeping with its core values of Transparency, Respectfulness, Unique, Synergy, and Tenacity.

About Trust-in Hospital:

Trust-in Hospital is a multi-speciality hospital situated in Bangalore, Karnataka. It is among the best hospitals in Bangalore. Trust-in Hospital offers timely diagnosis and provides the best course of treatment for its patients. The team at Trust-in Hospital has the best doctors in Bangalore along with trained nurses and support staff. This multi-speciality hospital offers patient-centric service and has over 15 speciality departments and a quick response team. The speciality departments at Trust-in Hospital are:

Oncology Medical & Surgical

General Medicine

Cardiology

Obstetrics & Gynaecology

Gastroenterology

Orthopaedics

ENT

Paediatrics

Urology

Pulmonology

Anaesthesia and Pain Management

Diabetology

Dermatology

Neurology & Neurosurgery

Nephrology

General Surgery

Physiotherapy

Pathology

Radiology

24/7 Emergency care

Vision & Mission:

Falling under the category of best hospitals in Bangalore, Trust-in Hospital aims to offer the best healthcare at affordable prices to all for all kinds of ailments.

Counted among the best hospitals in Bangalore, Trust-in Hospital’s pledge to make affordable healthcare a possibility goes beyond Independence Day celebration. They clearly state their vision as, “We are a "patient-centred" healthcare facility providing consistent and reliable healthcare to our patients.” And they state their mission as, “To provide highest quality of healthcare to patients on a large scale at affordable cost and sustainable value to all our stakeholders.”

And with the best doctors in Bangalore in the team, Trust-in Hospital always puts the interest of patients first, making it a hospital that is patient-centric and patient-friendly.  

Conclusion:

Trust-in Hospital puts a stop to your searches for “best doctors in Bangalore” and “hospitals in Bangalore”. You can easily book an appointment by calling them at 08050706071. If you are looking for emergency care and hassle-free ambulance service, you can easily reach them at +91-80-45174949 or +91-8050706071 / 72. So, this Independence Day, enjoy the freedom to good health by availing the best course of consultation and treatment at Trust-in Hospital.

Author Profile: 

Trust-in Hospital is a major multi-specialty medical hospital in Bangalore. Its mission is to provide high-quality, personalised healthcare to patients. The best and most skilled specialists work at this cutting-edge hospital. It integrates advanced medical technologies and modern infrastructure to provide comprehensive and cost-effective care to both outpatients and inpatients using a multidisciplinary approach.

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Best Joint replacement Doctor in Patna | Best Orthopedic doctor in Patna | Best orthopaedic clinic | Orthopedic and spine surgeon

Dr. Pankaj Kumar

Orthopedic and Spine surgery

+91-8292345710

It s a Clinic, run by Dr Pankaj Kumar having more than 18 years of experience as Senior Consultant Orthopedic and Spine surgeon. Best Orthopedic doctor in Patna. Best Joint replacement Doctor in Patna. Obtained his MBBS from Vinoba Bhava University, Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, India and his MS in Orthopaedic from B P Koirala institute of health Science, Dharan, Nepal and worked as an Assistant Professor at same institute. Afterwards, he completed a fellowship in hand surgery from Gent university hospital, Belgium. He became am AO Spine fellow from Hong Kong and Australia, furthermore he received training in AO Scoliosis surgery from Kerala and Hand surgery and reconstructive microsurgery from Ganga hospital, India. As an Orthopedic and spine surgeon, he has over 18 years of experience in Belgium, Hong Kong, Australia, Nepal, Bangladesh and India. In spine surgery adept in dealing with spinal deformity surgeries, revision spine surgeries, minimally invasive spine surgeries, Artificial Disc replacements, complex spine surgeries, spinal tumours surgeries, interventional pain managements. Number of key surgeries/procedures: more than 3500 spinal surgeries performed till march 2020. Instead of spine surgeries he does complex trauma, revision trauma surgeries, joint replacement and arthritic pain management. He has a comprehensive experience in providing leadership for management of research and consultancy activities pertaining to surgical methods on orthopedics. Recently, he is awarded by the Apollo Hospital Education and Research Foundation (AHERF) on recommendation of the board of Governor as an Honorary Adjunct title of Associate professor at New Delhi, India. Before coming to Patna, he worked as a Consultant Orthopedic and Spine surgeon at Apollo Reach Hospitals (a Unit of Apollo Hospitals Ltd.) at Karimnagar, Telangana, India from 1st Sept. 2008 to 25th Feb 2014 and Apollo Hospital, Dhaka from 6th March 2014 to 28th Feb. 2018.

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Heart Attack and Sudden Cardiac Arrest Differences

People often use these terms interchangeably, but they are not synonyms. A heart attack is when blood flow to the heart is blocked, and sudden cardiac arrest is when the heart malfunctions and suddenly stops beating unexpectedly. A heart attack is a “circulation” problem and sudden cardiac arrest is an “electrical” problem.

What is a heart attack?

A heart attack occurs when a blocked artery prevents oxygen-rich blood from reaching a section of the heart. If the blocked artery is not reopened quickly, the part of the heart normally nourished by that artery begins to die. The longer a person goes without treatment, the greater the damage. Symptoms of a heart attack may be immediate and intense. More often, though, symptoms start slowly and persist for hours, days, or weeks before a heart attack. Unlike sudden cardiac arrest, the heart usually does not stop beating during a heart attack. The heart attack symptoms in women can be different in men.

What is cardiac arrest?

Sudden cardiac arrest occurs suddenly and often without warning. It is triggered by an electrical malfunction in the heart that causes an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). With its pumping action disrupted, the heart cannot pump blood to the brain, lungs, and other organs. Seconds later, a person loses consciousness and has no pulse. Death occurs within minutes if the victim does not receive treatment. 

What is the link?

These two distinct heart conditions are linked. Sudden cardiac arrest can occur after a heart attack, or during recovery.  Heart attacks increase the risk of sudden cardiac arrest. Most heart attacks do not lead to sudden cardiac arrest. But when sudden cardiac arrest occurs, a heart attack is a common cause. Other heart conditions may also disrupt the heart’s rhythm and lead to sudden cardiac arrest. These include a thickened heart muscle (cardiomyopathy), heart failure, arrhythmias, particularly ventricular fibrillation, and long Q-T syndrome. Fast action can save lives. Find out what to do if someone experiences a heart attack or cardiac arrest.

What to do: Heart Attack

Even if you're not sure it's a heart attack, call 999(in Bangladesh) or your emergency response number according to your country. Every minute matters! It’s best to call EMS to get to the emergency room right away. Emergency medical services staff can begin treatment when they arrive — up to an hour sooner than if someone gets to the hospital by car. EMS staff are also trained to revive someone whose heart has stopped. Patients with chest pain who arrive by ambulance usually receive faster treatment at the hospital, too.

What to do: Sudden Cardiac Arrest

Cardiac arrest is reversible in most victims if it's treated within a few minutes. First, call 999 for emergency medical services. Then get an automated external defibrillator if one is available and use it as soon as it arrives. Begin CPR immediately and continue until professional emergency medical services arrive. If two people are available to help, one should begin CPR immediately while the other calls 999 and find an AED. Sudden cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death – over 320,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur annually in the United States. By performing Hands-Only CPR to the beat of the classic disco song “Staying Alive,” you can double or even triple a victim’s chance of survival.