I was well aware - prior to my CRASH - that I was chemically sensitive. Tobacco smoke, perfumes, make-up, potpouri, scented candles, insecticides, dyes and some paints were (and still are) the culprits in my life.

I wasn't a universal reactor as yet but my naturopath told me I was on the road to becoming one. In my studies I learned the plight of those who are universal reactors and I thank God that I did not reach that point. A universal reactor is someone who will have a reaction to just about everything. A universal reactor, as a general rule, can only wear clothing that is 100% cotton - preferably organic, unbleached, undyed cotton - and must stay away from synthetic materials. Universal reactors are restricted in many cases to living in an environment of natural wood - furniture, flooring, wall covering. Even their automobile has to be stripped down to the bare metal - vinyl, synthetics and plastics have to be removed.

I am still sensitive in these areas, but not to the degree that I was in the summer of 2001.  I could not spend any amount of time in a retail store because of the dyes, candles, perfumes, etc.  Ten minutes in a store and I would get a terrible headache.  As time progresses I discover that I am able to spend more and more time shopping in the stores.  Perhaps someday I will be totally immune.