Can you believe 2009 is finished? It seems like the year just flew by! As a new year begins, I find myself reminiscing over the last year and am amazed at the many changes that have occurred over the last 12 months. For us here at Babies 411, 2009 has been challenging, inspiring and full of accomplishments. Here’s a recap:
• We went from business and web planning to what you see today.
• Over the course of the year, we have met some great people and learned of outstanding organizations and companies.
• Twitter and Facebook have become a part of my everyday life….you may even say that I am now a bona fide Twitter and Facebook addict.
• Earth Mama Angel Baby has made yours truly an EMAB expert.
• I have been on a mission: to inform and educate healthcare professionals regarding the toxic chemicals found in the products we use on babies and on ourselves. I am pleased to report that although this is quite a process (and we still have much more to accomplish), hospitals are beginning to listen and are making the necessary changes to become a healthier place.
• In the midst of it all, I have managed to finish writing two books which will be out early in 2010 (so keep checking back!).
Although it seemed like a short year, there were many baby-related hot topics that made headlines in 2009. Let’s take a look:
• The swine flu pandemic which began in April topped the headline charts.
• The H1N1 vaccine also caused quite a stir. The media reports of swine flu deaths and the side effects of the H1N1 vaccine coupled with the haste of the vaccines development and release really had parents confused and nervous on what was the correct decision to make (as if parenting wasn’t hard enough).
• The No More Toxic Tub report (the shocking report that opened my eyes) was released and prompted action from concerned parents, nurses and doctors.
• Perchlorate, a rocket fuel chemical, was found in many infant formulas. Although this level was reported to be of “safe levels”, the concern arises when formula is mixed with tap water which may also be contaminated with this chemical.
• The FDA’s study that BPA is safe has fallen under much scrutiny. The Obama administration has awarded The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) $30 million in federal stimulus funds to research the safety of the controversial, hormone-disrupting chemical Bisphenol-A (BPA).
• US states are beginning to follow Canada and Europe and are taking a closer look into banning BPA in children’s products. Minnesota has become the first state to initiate this ban.
• Stork Craft recalls 2.1 million cribs making it the largest recall in U.S. history.
• On a lighter note, babies made a mark on TV with the new hit show Platinum Babies which debuted in November and has me anticipating the new season!
So, good-bye 2009 and hello 2010…I wonder what this year will bring. What were some of your highlights for 2009?
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Babies 411 is an on-line information and resource center for parents. This site has been developed by a neonatal intensive care nurse with the sole purpose of promoting the health, safety, and well-being of all babies.
Author : Diba Tillery RN, BSN, IBCLC, CPST
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