I became acquainted with Jehovah's organization in 1952 and was baptized in 1955. Over the years I've faced many problems: an unbelieving husband, health problems and two sons who, although raised by Bible principles, chose to follow the world.It was always Jehovah, his written word, service, meetings and my theocratic family that kept me strong and faithful. Always felt that I could handle anything life had to throw at me. (Foolish me, Satan is still out there busy as a bee)

I've been in the same congregation since 1962 and, after several splits, organizing new congregations, etc., we were ecstatic at having a brand new Kingdom Hall built about five years ago. After a very short while I started having problems being in the building. Would get 'antsy', headachy and not feel right. Would find myself moving my seat often to get away from fragrances. Some took offense and said, "Well, I'm only wearing a little bit". (Could that be something like being a 'little bit' pregnant?)

The problem has escalated and keeps getting worse and worse. Had some testing done and it was determined that I reacted badle to many chemicals,fragrances, newsprint, petroleum based products, shampoos, lotions, makeup, and on and on. Have been able to locate some safe products and installed an Alpine air cleaner in my home which helps a great deal. I don't even have to smell something to react. If it's in the area, I'm done for. Symptoms vary, but my body reacts immediately. First, I start getting hoarse, my throat closes up, I lose my voice, get a horrible, unexplainable feeling within my lungs,develop headaches, nausea, dizziness and find it difficult to breathe. For three and a half years I would wonder why I never slept on a Thursday night(TMS and SM night) and came home sick every Sunday after the WT study. Every aspect of my life has been affected by this problem.

After not missing one Circuit or District Assembly since 1952, it is devastating to me to not be able to go to one for the past two years. Also hurtful are comments made to indicate that I should have 'made an effort to go'. Especially is this true because I do not look sick (can't help that I inherited good genes). Meetings became a great problem. Started to listen in by phone, but I've always been a 'people person' and felt very isolated and spiritually downhearted.

The elders were understanding and allotted one of our theocratic school rooms to be a 'fragrance free' area. In spite of several announcements, there would still be some that would come into the school with fragrances, so I would have to leave. Even though the room is fragrance free the building is air tight. I have to walk through the vestibule and lobby to reach the room and am immediately assaulted with the odors that just linger there. I hold my breath until I get in the room. However, if I want to comment, the odors happily come in with the brother holding the mike. After years of participating in meetings I have to come to grips with the fact that, although bursting with a comment, I am not able to do so. It just gets harder and harder to breathe there, so may be faced with another heartbreaking decision.

On the plus side, the book study I attend IS fragrance free. I so very much appreciate the cooperation and loving kindness of the group there as it is the ONLY theocratic association I have with a group. Also, a pioneer mother and daughter have arranged for regular telephone witnessing from their 'fragrance free' home on Friday mornings. Several others have joined the group and we have some great (and just like regular field service some not so great) experiences. I treasure this opportunity and the association of dear, loving sisters. Recently, I've gotten a Bible study who is willing to come to my home.

So, for others out there who are facing the same problem, take comfort in Paul's words at Heb. 6:10 and keep in mind that whatever we are going through at this time, it is all temporary. We have the sure hope of the fulfillment of Jehovah's promises and that day will soon be here when "No one shall say, I am sick". Each day we get through is one day closer to the new system. May Jehovah, in his loving kindness, continue to give us the strength and determination to continue to serve him the best way we can.

To contact Irene, click below:

 Irenerada@aol.com