Don’t forget to get your pneumonia and flu shots.
In October 1918 – one month – 2,500 Mainers died in the influenza epidemic. This happened at the same time as World War I was going on, yet more people died of the flu than in the war.
The war claimed an estimated 16 million lives – the flu epidemic took about 50 million.
My own paternal grandmother died of the flu in October 1918 – at the age of 31, leaving three small children. In Windham, Lincoln Lamb, who was stationed at Fort Devens, died of flu.
How lucky we are that in less than 100 years, so many diseases that once killed literally millions can now be prevented by a simple inoculation. Most of the childhood diseases of my generation (whooping cough, measles, mumps, smallpox, etc.) are now preventable.
On another topic, plans are in the works in many southern Maine towns, offering a variety of holiday programs and trips designed especially for senior citizens. While the weather holds, it might be fun to get outside, meet someone new and visit somewhere different.
In Windham, the Parks and Recreation Department (892-1905) is planning a Dec. 5 trip to Winterberry Farm in Belgrade for an open holiday house, a visit to the barns, sleigh ride and shopping. Transportation fee is $10. Deadline for reservations is Wednesday, Nov. 25.
On Thursday, Dec. 10, a Holly Jolly Luncheon will be held at Mason-Motz Community Center in Falmouth. Gather with neighbors from Gorham, Cape Elizabeth, Falmouth and Standish for a festive holiday lunch of glazed ham and traditional accompaniments, along with live entertainment. The cost is $24 (transportation, food and entertainment). Call 892-1905 for additional information. Deadline to register for both trips: Wednesday, Nov. 25.
Kay Soldier welcomes reader ideas for column topics of interest to seniors. She can be reached by email at kso48@aol.com, or write to 114 Tandberg Trail, Windham, ME 04062.
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