I have asthma. My attacks are brought on by exercise, animals, preservatives, and just life in general. Exercise – no problem, easily avoided (yes, I know this is a cop out, I’m working on it). Animals – not negotiable. I’d rather die than live without creatures. Preservatives are something I can avoid. Common triggers are dried fruit, many fruit juices, salt and vinegar chips, and most Indian pickles.
Recently, my asthma has been awful. Mark has been terrified, and I’ve been pretty scared too. Vietnam was not too bad, but coming back to Sydney reminded me how vulnerable I am, and I am off to see a respiratory specialist soon. In the meantime, having a cold makes things worse, I feel bloody awful and more dependent on medication than I am comfortable with.
It’s been years since I’ve had a decent pickle, and the other week at Sally & David’s house, I had the first pickle without breathing difficulties in years. Sally makes her own, and she gave me a jar. Tonight I made a chickpea, pumpkin and pea curry, and enjoyed it with a superb homemade mango pickle, courtesy of Sally. And I can still breathe 🙂
Thanks Sally.
Disco Knitter 
Asthma – it’s something that’s in my family as well but I fortunately haven’t got it. I have seen ultra fit dancers come bounding off stage and hit the Ventalin hard before going back on so it’s nothing to do with fitness. I feel for you and your discomfort but it’s good to hear that one little luxury has come back.
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I hadn’t realised it meant so much to you. Will make sure you’re kept in mango chutney – I make HUGE batches of it when they’re are in season.
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