It’s been quite some time since I’ve last posted. As we all know, the 2024 Hurricane Season has brought significant challenges, particularly along the East Coast. The choas of the storms has been a whirlwind these last couple of weeks, and I’m back to reflect, give personal insights, and share tips to navigating a hurricane season with a chronic illness.

Our Experience

As a whole, we were blessed. Our home was not damaged. The impacts of Hurricane Helene on Savannah were less devastating than those within the North Carolina/Appalachian region. While our area avoided significant flooding, several powerlines, trees, and homes were impacted from high winds, causing outages affecting nearly 1 million residents within the state of Georgia. We were (unfortunately) among those affected, enduring a power outage that lasted five days. Adding to stress, multiple tornado warnings and sirens were issued during the storm.

Hurricane Milton was expected to bring some rain and winds; however, we saw blue skies and milder temperatures in Savannah yesterday. We were ready to face the storm, but were not impacted. The reality is, you just never know what will happen with a hurricane (shrug).

Facing natural disasters can be stressful enough for the average person. This year, for the first time, I’ve experienced a few hurricanes with the added complexities of having a chronic illness and would like to share my successes and setbacks in preparing, planning, and weathering the storm.

TIP #1: PLAN AHEAD… AND DON’T FORGET TO REFILL MEDICATIONS BEFORE THE STORM!

Hurricanes can be scary, but they often come with several days’ notice. It is crucial to use this leverage to prepare, both annually, and prior to the arrival of any specific storm.

Start by creating an emergency plan. Consider evacuation routes, communication plans, designated meeting spots, and arrangements for pets. Don’t forget to include a comprehensive list of supplies for your emergency kit.

I made the mistake of forgetting to refill my pregablin prior to the arrival of Hurricane Helene. Guess what happened? I ran out of my medication and couldn’t refill it until two days later, when power was restored to a limited number of pharmacies. Pregabalin is a medication that shouldn’t be stopped abruptly, so I was left feeling anxious about potential withdrawal symptoms. This was a wake-up call—a mistake I’ll never make again.

TIP #2: GET SOME BACKUP!

One thing I noticed is that options for pain management can be limited when a power outage occurs! My heating pads required electricity and my ice packs melted quickly. Next time, I plan to be better equipped with all of the essential items for the chronic pain warrior, including:

Pain Relief Supplies

When preparing for hurricane season, it’s essential to have a range of pain relief supplies on hand, especially for those with chronic illnesses. Here are some key items to consider:

• Over-the-Counter Medications: Stock up on non-prescription pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen for management of acute pain or discomfort.
• Heat and Cold Packs: A MUST
• Topical Analegesics: Creams or patches containing menthol or capsaicin can provide localized relief for muscle and joint pain. (Icy Hot was a lifesaver for me when my ice packs melted!)
• Prescription Medications: Review all medications and ensure adequate supply for the duration of the storm and its potential impacts.
• Supportive Devices: Items like braces, splints, or cushions can offer additional support and comfort during discomfort. (Neck pillow for the win!)

Hydration and Nutrition

Staying hydrated and nourished during a hurricane is critical, especially for those managing chronic conditions. Here are some tips:

• Water Supply: Store enough bottled water for drinking and food preparation. Aim for at least one gallon per person per day for several days. Fill bathtubs for hygiene/bathing purposes prior to the storm and consider purchasing a large water container or filtration system.
• Non-Perishable Foods
• Meal Replacement Options

Comfort Items

Comfort items can make a significant difference in managing stress and anxiety during a hurricane. Consider including:

• Bedding and Pillows: Have cozy blankets and fluffy pillows to provide support and comfort, whether evacuating or staying at home.
• Entertainment: Prepare books, games, magazines, or puzzles to keep your mind occupied and pass the time (especially when TV is no longer an option!).
• Familiar Objects: Bring along favorite items that provide emotional comfort, such as stuffed animals or family photos.

TIP #3: PRIORITIZE YOUR MENTAL WELL-BEING—STAY INFORMED AND CONNECTED!

Preparing for a hurricane can be emotionally taxing, especially for those with chronic illnesses. Here are some strategies to prioritize mental health:

• Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s normal to feel anxious or fearful about an approaching storm. Allow yourself to experience these emotions without judgment. (Y’all should have seen me freaking out during Helene!)
• Connect with Support: Reach out to friends, family, or support groups.
• Develop Coping Strategies: Explore techniques that help you manage stress. This might include deep breathing exercises, mindfulness practices, or grounding techniques. (I became familiar with cognitive distortions and caught myself when I would fall into one way of thinking. This allowed me the opportunity to replace a negative thought with a positive one, which was helpful in managing anxiety.)
• Practice Self-Care: Prioritize activities that promote relaxation, such as reading, gentle yoga, or listening to calming music. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as your physical health.

In addition, staying updated and connected during a hurricane can help ease anxiety and provide a sense of control:

• Reliable Sources: Follow trusted weather updates through local news outlets, official weather apps, or the National Hurricane Center. (My favorites are WTOC, CEMA, and Mike’s Weather Page.) Knowing the latest information can help you plan and feel more secure.
• Community Resources: Stay informed about local resources such as shelters, food distribution points, and mental health services available during emergencies. (Following Helene, CEMA announced the opening of food pantries and charging/cooling stations for those in the Savannah area.)
• Communication Plan: Set up a communication strategy with family and friends. Regular check-ins can help everyone feel connected and supported during the storm.

As hurricane season continues to unfold, being proactive is key to managing both physical and mental health, especially for those with chronic illnesses and chronic pain. By planning ahead, stocking up on essential supplies, and prioritizing mental well-being, we can better navigate the challenges that storms bring. Stay safe, stay informed, and take care of one another as we face the remainder of the 2024 Hurricane Season together!

Additional Resources:

Hurricane Preparedness Guide

Hurricane Tracker: NOAA

Build A Kit

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