Dehydration

Hello from Baghdaddy! Internet access has been spotty over the last several days, making it hard for me to check and send email or blog. Luckily we have a communication specialist that is working long hours trying to keep the internet and phone system functional. For several hours yesterday, the unit had no DNVT (Digital Nonsecure Voice Telephone...I think) or internet access.

Today I am resting in my room after becoming very dehydrated. It definitely can sneak up on a person. I felt fine yesterday and was very busy seeing soldiers for our program. In the process I forgot to keep myself hydrated and when I woke up this morning I couldn't sit up or get out of bed. I was dizzy and felt like I was going to pass out. After about six hours and 100 ounces of gatorade and water, I am feeling much better.

Dehydration is the number one problem for soldiers here in Iraq. It became a problem for me and I spend the majority of my time inside an air conditioned building. I did walk to the palace for meals twice yesterday wearing my 25 pounds of battle gear, but I didn't feel uncomfortable from the heat. Even in moderate weather, I am soaked with sweat when I arrive for dinner. I don't think the temperature yesterday reached over 100 degrees, so I will need to be more careful in the future when I am faced with 110 degree weather or hotter.