Our Mascot, the Canary
"Why are people with MCS called "canaries?"
The term "canaries" has been applied to those with chemical sensitivities or environmental illness in reference to the canaries that were first taken into coal mines with the miners so they they would know when toxic gases were filling the mines. The gases were not detected by the miners and many would die after being overtaken by the fumes. But the delicate system of the canary would give out long before the coal miners felt the effects. When they saw the canaries dying, they knew it was time to get out.
Today a similar condition exists. There are many toxic chemicals in the world around us, and they affect us all, though some more than others. Those who have seem to have a greater tolerance of chemicals can take a clue from those who get very sick from even slight exposures, and realize that in time, their bodies too may suffer from exposure to such things. Thus many people today choose to "clean up their act" as regards to chemical exposure and try to use natural products as much as possible.
It is appropriate, too, to speak of the "canary in a cage," as people with environmental illness often feel isolated and cut off from others due to the limits placed upon them by their illness. Public places are generally off-limits. Weddings and other gatherings may be impossible as well. It is important that MCS sufferers find a way to make their lives as normal as possible. After all, a canary may have to live in a cage, but it can still sing its heart out.
© Dorothy Herrmann 2003
