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This week I would like to spotlight an issue that hits close to home. Not quite two years ago, a good friend of mine lost her 14-year-old son to the choking game. (The object of this game is to experience aspyhxiation. By restricting oxygen and blood flow to the head, participants experience a "high".) http://www.chokinggame.net/index.html
Cody learned of this game from school classmates that had been playing it together at parties. Children usually choose to play this in lieu of drinking and doing drugs, because they feel that the effects wont be as harmful and they can avoid being caught by parents. This game, however, cost a bright young boy his life.
His mom explained:
"Cody had a summer full of plans. He had just gotten his driver permit in April. His summer was going to include wrestling camps and a youth group camp that only 100 area kids got choosen to go to. Cody was active in our church youth group. He got his varitsty letter for wrestling in his freshmen year."
Since his passing, his family has worked to share his story in hopes of preventing future deaths. They have formed a group called Cody's Cause that travels to local schools for assemblies. They encourage all parents, students and teachers to be educated on the cause.
Here is a copy of some of the information Cody's Cause provides to families: www.gaspinfo.comCOMMON BUT DEADLY MISCONCEPTIONS: SCIENTIFIC SURVEY RELEASED 2-2009
90% of youth ages 9 - 18 had already engaged in the activity in groups.
Study revealed more than 40% perceived no danger at all.
Between the years 1990 & 2009 there were 83 deaths and injuries reported in children between the
ages of 6 - 10 (independent reports)
MY KIDS AREN’T AT RISK They’re Good Kids!
Chief ME of N.H.—Dr. Andrews:
“Important brain development researchindicates adolescents, even those ‘good kids’, are hardwired for risk-taking behavior.” “Ironically, the group of children most likely to shun tobacco and alcohol may well be the more likely candidates to be playing this game.” If we tell them they’ll do it! They already know! They’re already doing it!
This survey reported all but 0.8% of youth replied that the right information about brain damage,disability and death would make them not try it and it would make them stop.
I look forward to blogging again soon. In the meantime, plan ahead for Ele's Race.
- Cindy
“The myth that this kind of behavior is engaged in by only troubled youth must be dispelled.” |
Hello good-deed-doers! Next weekend MSU Museum will host the 21st Annual Chocolate Party Benefit. You may have recieved chocolates or candy hearts from your Valentine this weekend. The upcoming MSU event is a great way to keep your sweet tooth satisfied.
Every year around this time Local Law Enforcement hosts a Polar Plunge for Michigan Special Olympics. 
Every year around this time most of us come up with a New Year’s Resolution that involves fitness, eating healthier, or just generally living better. 
