Diesel Fumes

This is not going to be a very popular post, so you may want to switch “channels” now while you still have a chance!

There are few things I dislike about this glorious city—Cuenca—but diesel fumes are starting to “irritate” me just a tad bit.

In the beginning (five months ago), it was easy to ignore the exhaust fumes from the buses, cars and trucks, but now it’s not that simple. And if you ask Cuencanos, they will tell you the same thing. In fact, many Ecuadorians cover their faces when they’re in the presence of fumes—especially buses.

As a cancer survivor (times two), I can tell you that I’m not that excited about reading the effects of diesel fumes on the human body (I’ll let you read the lengthy list). But I can tell you this, I have noticed the eye irritation and headaches that accompany our trips to “al centro” via the bus and walking.

We came to Cuenca fully aware of the fact that diesel fumes were a problem and actually read some of the proposed solutions. It is and will continue to be a problem for quite some time, but proper planning now will also determine the future of this historic city and its people.

In my former life, I was a speaker for the American Cancer Society, National Cancer Survivor Network, and Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. I traveled the country raising awareness regarding breast cancer, wrote articles for Coping with Cancer Magazine, and basically shared my knowledge with others to help gain support in the fight against cancer. I championed the cause because it was real to me! In fact, it’s still a cause close to my heart. This Sunday we will be helping out with a fundraiser for Hospice of Cuenca, along with many other expats.

Diesel fumes are not going away (anytime soon!) and neither is cancer, but we can all do our part to help raise awareness.

Until next time…hasta luego!