People have been studying this question for many years. Not only do we sleep but so do all the animals. Some have the ability to sleep with one half of their brain while doing some activity with the other. Migrating birds do this as well as porpoises. One recent study showed that if you keep a rat awake long enough it will die. Usually after about 3 weeks. So sleep is a vital function. Just as necessary to sustain life as eating and drinking. The real question should be: Since sleep is so important why do most of us put it on the back burner and do not make sure we get the sleep we need every night. How much sleep do we need? Enough so you feel fresh and alert throughout the entire day. Including the time spend in a boring lecture after lunch. Eating does not make you sleepy. Boring lectures do not make you sleepy. So if you find yourself getting irritable, tired, nodding, or just having a hard time getting through the day you are probably not getting enough quality sleep. But on the other hand, if you are spending a lot of time in bed and still not feeling refreshed you may have a sleep disorder. You can take a sleep test on the Sleep Links page or try out the Sleep Forums, great information from those who have sleep disorders and how they cope with them.

By the way, does anyone know where the above statue is from and the approximate age. If you know e-mail Sandman.

This is Sandman, signing off for now. Sweet dreams.

Have you had problems coping with CPAP? Are you interested in joining or starting a support group? You are not the only one. Many support groups are available but the one which works best with sleep apnea and using CPAP is the A.W.A.K.E. network. You may find an A.W.A.K.E group in your town. To find out if you do or to begin one if you don't contact the ASAA and they will by happy to help.

May issue: "Pharmacists Worst Nightmare" Help was received. A lawyer, who takes on these kinds of cases, mailed in a response to take the case at no charge. I will post the outcome in upcoming issues. Have you experienced trouble at work, are you at risk of loosing your job or license. If so let the sandman know. Beginning with the May issue stories received will be posted on the SnoozePaper. If you have any helpful information for the story tellers you can email sandman and I will forward the information to the proper recipient.