Aiken Woman Magazine

SUMMER 2013

COMPLIMENTARY

TM

From an Olympic Dream

to First-Class

TEACHING

Meet Lellie Ward of Paradise Farm

A Survivor’s

STRENGTH Judith Evans shares her inspiring journey as a Holocaust survivor

The DAYBREAK

DIFFERENCE Meet Chrissa Matthews, the woman

behind DayBreak Adult Care Services

In this Issue

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14

www.aikenwomanonline.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Lori Samples Duncan loriduncan86@gmail.com

ADVERTISING

Della Hertzberg Cathy Williams (info@aikenwomanonline.com)

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lori Samples Duncan Zoom H. Heaton Beth McCrary Amy Pittsenbarger Elaine Samples Kristen Sojourner Rebecca Vigné Rachel-Elise Weems

COVER PHOTO

Heather Sargent Photography

DESIGN Melissa W. Morris

PHOTOGRAPHY Heather Sargent Photography Lista’s Studio of Photography

From the Editor 2 Summer’s End

Events

3 What’s Happening?

Let’s Talk

4

5

6

9

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Meet Aiken Tech Graduate Faith Moore Riverbanks Zoo and Garden: Give Us a Day and We’ll Give You the World From an Olympic Dream to First-Class Teaching Magnolia Natural Market & Café Southern Self-Protection

Celebrating the Survivor in You! 12 A Survivor’s Strength

Professional

14

16 18

The DayBreak Difference...

The Woman Behind the Business Who is Megiddo Dream Station?

The Best of Hands

Health & Wellness

19 20 21 23 24 26

Meet Dr. Edward Jakubs Thank You from My Aiken Body Meet Dr. Brooke Usry!

What Hormones Make Us Fat? Meet the Aiken Vein Doctors Women’s LifeCare Diagnostic Services at Aiken Regional Medical Centers

Business & Web Directory 27 Contact our Advertisers

Personal Note Find us on facebook!

Aiken Woman Magazine

Woman 2 Woman Publishing (803) 785-4475 602 Northwood Road Lexington, SC 29072 Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or omissions. No part of this book may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. © 2013

28 Who Will You Smile at Today?

Savor the last days of

SUMMER! www.aikenwomanonline.com

W

hen most of you read this, school will be back and in, and we will be fast approaching a new year. I will have a senior in my home this fall, a sophomore, a fifth grader, and a first grader. So life is sure to be busy at the Duncan household. Where does the time go?

This issue has been a pleasure to work on as usual. We have great stories from the front cover to the very last page. We always want to hear your feedback. Good or bad, we want to know what you like and how we can improve. One of my favorite stories is about Judith Evans, a holocaust survivor.

Of course, we have brought you lots of great information on some of the business ladies in your community such as Ms. Chrissa Matthews of DayBreak, who is on our cover, or our story about Dr. Usry. All of these articles are meant to educate our readers about the community and hopefully inspire you in some way. There are some pretty amazing women in Aiken, and we love to get the word out.

We are hosting another Women’s Expo!!! Join us December 7th at the YMCA for some great shopping, a holiday fashion show, and tons of prizes!

We are so pleased to be a part of the Aiken community, and thank you for continuing to support us through your readership and the support of our advertisers. These local businesses are committed to celebrating the women of Aiken and providing us all with quality products, services and customer service. Let them know you saw them here in the pages of Aiken Woman Magazine. Don’t forget to join us on Facebook for some great back to school giveaways!

God Bless and let’s keep dry and cool.

Mark 11:24 Therefore I say to you whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.”

Lori Samples Duncan Editor-in-Chief

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real

Women

Events

What’s HAPPENING?

EXPO Aiken Woman Magazine

Aiken Woman Magazine wants you to make plans to join us for our

Winter Women’s Expo!

December 7 at YMCA Early Christmas Shopping Learn How to Avoid the ER during the holidays Great Giveaways Survivor Fashion Show

For more details, call

(803) 785-4475

37th Annual Aiken’s Makin’ September 6, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., September 7, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Historic Downtown Aiken

An annual display of juried arts and crafts from Aiken County and the Southeastern states. The festival also includes food vendors, baked goods, and entertainment. Admission is free. Visit the website below to learn more. www.aikensmakin.net

Shout Fest 2013 September 14, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Perry Memorial Park, Aiken

The WAAW Shout Fest is Georgia – Carolina’s largest family-oriented, Christ centered day of fun filled festivities for people of all ages in a positive atmosphere. The Shout Fest features a variety of gospel music artists in the Perry Memorial Park, located in Aiken, South Carolina The festival provides a fusion of inspiration, a kids fun zone, a health and wellness fair, cultural empowerment through the synergy of community, educational resources and some of the best food and merchandise vendors in the Central Savannah River Area. www.shout947.com

Pawleys Island Festival of Music and Art September 19 – October 13 The Reserve Golf Club of Pawleys Island, Pawleys Island

The 23rd Annual Pawleys Island Festival of Music and Art has announced its performance lineup for 2013. Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis, Jr., originally of the Fifth Dimension, will headline the performance events slated for October 1-13 at the Reserve Golf Club of Pawleys Island. The Festival kicks off with the Wearable Art Luncheon on September 19th at Tommy Bahama Restaurant in The Market Common. On Saturday, September 28-29, Chalk Under the Oaks will be held at Huntington State Park across from the Atalaya Arts & Crafts Festival. Beginning October 4, the 14th Annual Pawleys Island Wine Gala fundraiser starts the 2 week performances. Followed on Saturday, October 5th- the Plein Air Art Exhibiton held at various locations in Pawleys Island from 10am-4pm. Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr. are the Festival headliners entertaining with sounds of the 70’s and 80’s on Saturday, October 5th. Sunday, October 6th brings CCU Graduate and local vocalist, Elise Testone, to the lowcountry for a collaborative fundraiser with “Teach My People”. The second week provides talent from such entertainers as Emile Pandolfi, Vivace, Mac Arnold and The Movin’Out Band. The Festival ends on Sunday, October 13th with a Gospel Brunch helping raise funds and awareness for Miss Ruby’s Kids and the Pawleys Island Festival of Music and

Art. For more information, ticket prices, times and dates, visit the website below or call Festival offices at (843) 626-8911. www.pawleysmusic.com

21st Annual Dottie Dunbar All Woman Fishing Tournament October 5, 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Palmetto Bay Marina, Hilton Head Island

Only women may fish in the tournament. Targeted species are: spotted sea trout, and spot tail bass (red fish). Anglers must have a current South Carolina saltwater fishing license and a boat. Rental boats are available at marinas. Women anglers must strike and land all fish. The angler entry fee is $40, if received by Sept. 17, and $50 at registration. The fee includes dinner, T-shirt, prizes and awards. Please mail a check to DDAWFT c/o Dottie Dunbar,114 Candar Court, Chapin, SC 29036. To register in advance, please include your phone number and email address. On Friday, Oct. 4, register in front of Palmetto Bay Marina Charter Office, where the Angler meeting will be held during registration from 6-7:30 a.m. The fee includes a T-shirt and dinner for the angler. Weigh Station opens at 3 p.m. at Palmetto Bay Charter Office. The awards dinner starts at 5 p.m. and is $10 for non-anglers. Tournament T-shirts are available for $10. The public is invited to attend. For information and registration, contact Dottie Dunbar at (803) 932-7685 or (803) 206-0598 or via email at noah2x2@sc.rr.com. Or, contact Cindy Sullivan at (843) 384-2466 or at cshhi@aol. com.

Downtown Aiken Oktoberfest October 12 Downtown Aiken

Aiken County Historical Museum and Banksia will host the Aiken Garden Show. Come and enjoy garden tours, exhibitors, vendors, workshops and educational programs. For more information, please call Tommy Culligan at (803) 641-6777. Proceeds benefit Aiken Garden Club Council.

Western Carolina State Fair October 17 -26 Aiken Fairgrounds, 561 May Royal Drive, Aiken

This year’s fair has more new and exciting exhibits, rides and shows. Make plans to be there. Let’s Ride!

Call (803) 648-8955 or visit the website below for more information and to purchase tickets. www.letsrideaiken.com

www.aikenwomanonline.com

Let’s Talk

Meet Aiken Tech Graduate Faith Moore

W

hen North Augusta resident Faith Moore crossed the stage at Aiken Technical College and received her degree in May, she— like her more than 500 fellow graduates — had the opportunity to reflect on the experiences, achievements, and people who helped pave the way for her success.

Faith graduated this spring as President of the Student Government Association and Vice President of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. She was the recipient of statewide, regional and national awards through both organizations. When Aiken Technical College awarded its two highest honors at its annual Awards Night in April – the George H. “Buck” Grant Award and the Student Service Award – Faith was on the stage accepting both.

A 2000 high school graduate and mother of two, Faith admits that while she was motivated to succeed during college, her priorities during her high school years were much different.

“I was not driven with my studies, and was more focused on having a good time and what my friends and I were going to do after school was out rather than focusing on making good grades,” Faith said.

“That’s what really inspired me to do well in college – I knew that I had messed around in high school and I wanted to make my mom and dad proud.”

After high school, Faith worked for Delta Airlines as a reservation sales representative, and later served as a training representative for new hires. She also became very involved in her church, and

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

began directing children’s ministry. Through both experiences, Faith discovered her true passion – teaching others.

When Faith put in for a transfer at Delta, she lost the job to a woman who had a degree on her resume; Faith did not. She knew that it was time to return to school.

“I decided to pursue an Associate in Arts degree, that way in the future, when I decide exactly what I want to teach, I will have my core classes. Everything I took at Aiken Technical College is transferable,” Faith said. “ATC was so close to home. A lot of people told me about the value of going to a technical college for your first two years, and the cost, value and proximity to my home were the reasons why I decided to start here.”

Faith was born and raised in Aiken County, and has joined the workforce right in her own community. Immediately following graduation from Aiken Technical College, Faith went to work fulltime at an insurance agency in Aiken.

She plans to one day earn a bachelor’s degree geared toward teaching and help others learn, whether in the classroom or in a job training capacity.

Real

Women

Faith Moore ...the cost, value and proximity to my home were the reasons why I decided to start here.

Her success did not come without sacrifices, and she credits the support she received from her family for making it possible to achieve her goals. Her parents, in-laws, and husband, Eric, recognized the importance of Faith’s education, and adjusted their own lives to help her succeed. When Faith received her prestigious awards and was handed her diploma at graduation, her family members were right where they had been along – by her side.

“It was the best feeling in the world to have my family there, and to be able to bring honor to my family. Without my mom and

dad instilling the values that they did, I never would have achieved what I have,” Faith said.

Faith strives to instill the same values in her own children, Ethan, 6, and Olivia, 4, and hopes her path to success will inspire them to also be confident, motivated leaders.

“I hope that they will learn that you can do anything you put your mind to if you just believe and put your whole heart into what you’re doing. You have to be persistent,” Faith said. “I hope that they will see that the finish line is there, you just have to keep going for it.”

RIVERBANKS Zoo and Garden:

Give Us a Day and We’ll Give You the World

W

hether it’s a safari across the plains of Africa, a journey through the Amazon or an excursion to the Australian Outback, you don’t have to travel the globe to connect with the Earth’s wildlife and wild places.

A visit to Riverbanks Zoo and Garden will bring the world to you!

The 100-acre Zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals representing 350 species. Riverbanks boasts state-of-the-art, naturalistic animal exhibits that house everything from lions, tigers and bears to elephants, koalas, penguins and sharks. Highlights are the Zoo’s Aquarium-Reptile Complex, African Savanna, Birdhouse at Riverbanks, Gorilla Base Camp, Koala Knockabout, Ndoki Forest and Riverbanks Farm.

A visit to the Zoo also includes several exciting, family-friendly attractions. Earlier this summer, Riverbanks debuted its all-new

zip line canopy tour—a thrilling addition to the park that features four short courses for beginners, and for those braver at heart, a more challenging line that sends guests zooming across the Saluda River at 30 to 35 mph and a distance of about 1,000-feet. Another must-do at the Zoo is Riverbanks’ four-story vertical ropes challenge course, Sky-High Safari. As part of this heart-pounding journey, climbers will make their way through more than 30 balancetesting obstacles before reaching the top of the course where guests are given a bird’s eye-view of the Zoo. If fun is what you’re seek-

ing without your heart skipping a beat, guests also have daily opportunities to hand-feed Riverbanks’ giraffe herd and flock of sociable lorikeets, ride the ponies, climb the rock wall, take a spin on the carousel and hop on board the Spots n’ Stripes railroad.

Guests will want to top off their visit to the Zoo with a stroll through Riverbanks Botanical Garden. The 70-acre budding masterpiece is nestled along the lower Saluda River and houses more than 4,300 varieties of native and exotic plants. At the root of its beauty is the 34,000 square-foot

walled garden—Riverbanks’ premier botanical exhibit. The colorful, year-round display features a magnificent maze of seasonal and themed beds. Other highlights of the Botanical Garden are the Bog, Dry, Old Rose and Shade gardens.

Young sprouts will also enjoy a play area designed especially for children.

So whether it’s exotic adventures you’re seeking or a place where your imagination can run wild, you’ll find both at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Give us a day and we’ll give you the world.

www.aikenwomanonline.com

Let’s Talk

From an Olympic Dream

to FIRST-CLASS TEACHING

by Amy Pittsenbarger photos by Heather Sargent Photography

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real

Women

Let’s Talk

L

ellie Ward, a descendant of a family of athletes, was riding in a selection trial of the qualifiers for the 1995 Olympics when she sustained a career-changing injury to her knee. It was during her healing process that she crossed paths with Bruce Davidson, a well-known event rider. He offered to buy her horse, “The Traveling Man”, and the money from that went towards the land that would later be transformed into Paradise Farm. The plan “was to establish a training center where I could continue my own competitive interests, develop facilities for national level competition and training of other horses and riders,” Ward says. And the rest, as they say, is history.

Paradise Farm is located in Aiken, SC, and has a whole list of amenities to offer for horses and their riders. The farm has 18 stalls, 15 large paddocks, an outdoor allweather arena, and more than 75 cross country jumps of varying levels of difficulty. Ward, an Aiken native, says she knew the property was perfect when she saw it. “The rolling hills…scream cross country course…and the established turf is every horse trainer’s dream,” says Ward of the 110-acre tract of land. Paradise Farm hosts three national level trials per year, sanctioned by the United States Eventing Association and the United States Equestrian Federation. The farm also holds other schooling competitions, jumping derbies, and the Aiken Hunter Trial and Dog Show.

Ward attributes her skill and interest in teaching to her father, an

“avid tennis and hockey player.”

She says she is good at explaining concepts and learned the maxim of “teaching people to ride by skill, not luck” from her father as well.

Ward has trained and developed international contacts with riders in countries all over the world over the past 35 years. After high school, she trained in Germany, Ireland, Spain and England. Ward raced in Aiken, Virginia, New York, and Spain for more than nine years.

She is known throughout the east coast for her dedication to safe riding practices and in her past has served as the regional safety director of the Master of Foxhounds Association.

“Paradise Farm is about education.

Lessons never stop at the farm,” says Ward. She also speaks about how important it is for riders to think like a horse. “People need to understand that a horse is a flight

animal. They see…and process differently than we do. This is a very important factor [to consider] even before getting in the saddle,” Ward says. Paradise Farm does not have school horses, meaning most people bring their own horses and “ship in” with their own trailer.

Riders can choose between taking a single lesson and staying for more extended periods of time.

Ward says she is happy to teach

riders any discipline they are interested in, and that “safety, balance, control, confidence, and fun” are her main objectives!

If you are interested in learning more about all of the opportunities that Paradise Farm has to offer, call (803) 640-4918, email: paradisefarmaiken@gmail.com or visit online at www.paradisefarmaiken.com.

www.aikenwomanonline.com

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VOL 1, NO 4

COMPLIMENTARY

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NO 2

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CELEBRATIN G, AND EDUCA MOTIVATING, TING Real WOMEN TM

SURVIVING

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Meet the succe ssful TV motivationa l speaker —personality and Judge Hatch ett

Your Mind and

YOUR LIFE

Achieve long term weight management by changing your habits, NOT your diet

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Contact us to subscribe or advertise!

(803) 785-4475

Check out all of our issues online at www.aikenwomanonline.com

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real

Women

3

ENTARY

CELEBRATING, MOTIVATING, AND EDUCATING WOMEN

G, G, MOTIVATIN WOMEN CELEBRATINATING TM AND EDUC

MAGNOLIA Natural Market & Café

by Elaine Samples

W

hen Cindy Gingrey’s daughter was 3, she would disappear in the backyard behind the family’s tiny garden and devour every last green bean and strawberry she could find. “We realized quickly that we needed to be very careful about what we used in our food,” recalls Cindy. From that moment, the family began buying organic, so it seems only natural that Cindy would primarily serve organic foods in her venture – Magnolia Natural Market and Café. Magnolia offers a highly organic menu while supporting local farms and businesses. They also carry a delicious selection of biodynamic wines, organic beers, ales and ciders.

One night as she lay down to say her prayers, Cindy asked for a job that she would love, that would be of service, and that would eventually pay her. She soon realized that what she sought was right in front of her eyes. Cindy and fatherin-law, Bill Gingrey, bought Magnolia Café in 2009. He runs the front of the house, Cindy runs the kitchen, and they “have never looked back!” according to Cindy.

As for the biodynamic wines sold by Magnolia, Cindy explains it this way: “Think of biodynamic farming as super organic! Based on lectures from Rudolph Steiner in the 20s, biodynamic farming is a spiritual, ecological and

Dining at Magnolia’s can be different every time you go, as their menu changes daily. At lunch, Magnolia’s serves fresh salads, wraps, seafood, homemade soups, locally sourced burgers, paninis and homemade desserts. Dinner is a selection of appetizers, salads and entrees to satisfy a variety of palates. “Lunch is lively with 70s music, outdoor seating, and you never know how you’re going to run into,” says Cindy. “Dinner, new to us, is more Louis Armstrong and slow paced.”

‘I believe that organic translates to healthier for you and your families. The increase in customers sent to us by their doctors seems to mean I’m not the only one.’

“Very basically,” explains Cindy, “Organic refers to the way farmers grow and process agricultural products, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy products and meat. Organic farming practices are designed to encourage soil and water conservation and reduce pollution.

Farmers who grow organic produce and meat do not use conventional methods to fertilize, control weeds or prevent livestock disease.

For example, rather than using chemical weed killers, organic farmers may conduct more sophisticated crop rotations and spread mulch or manure to keep weeds at bay. I believe that organic translates to healthier for you and your families. The increase in customers sent to us by their doctors seems to mean I’m not the only one.”

ethical approach to farming. Strict attention to the soil, the plant and the fruit are highly monitored and treasured. What it simply means to you in the end is your produce has more nutrition, a higher hybrix (sugar) number and more flavor. Organic and biodynamic wine were produced from the same grape in adjacent fields in France during one study. In a blind taste test, the biodynamic won hands down over the organic.”

In speaking with Cindy Gingrey, it becomes pretty apparent that she was born to cook and serve healthy food to happy customers. She comes alive when she speaks about her passion, “Eating well is a blessing and cooking food for people is just plain fun! Wonderful relationships are forged over the knife, over the counter, and within my family. After all, isn’t chatting over a plate of happy food the best place to develop friendships?”

We tend to agree with Cindy: stop by Magnolia Market and Café for a healthy meal today. You may just walk away with a new friend...

www.aikenwomanonline.com

Hidden Heat, LLC Linda Suzanne Rye SLED/NRA Certified Instructor 803.640.2624 PO Box 6433 Aiken, S.C. 29804 “Teaching you how to protect yourself and your loved ones.�

VOL 1, NO 4 COMPLIMENTARY

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MOTIVATING, CELEBRATING, Real WOMEN AND EDUCATING

CELEBRATING, MOTIVATING, AND EDUCATING Real WOMEN

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SIR IVIN BIGG SPUR SURV ING

Don’t miss our Fall issue — coming soon! www.aikenwomanonline.com

and THRIV

Mary and Ron share their “Labor of Love� for the real shares her live Gamecock Cherie Nettles inspirational journey

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FAITH G the NGINwith CHA FOUR NELS Your Mind and YOUR LIFE Daniel and Stephanie discuss the recent diagnosis of their son weight Achieve long term management by changing your diet your habits, NOT

n E LOCAL NelsoCOUPL Barbara GIV ES BAC Meet Everett and Shannon

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Tip #4: Driving at high speeds and accelerating quickly will result in more frequent repairs.

Slow down, save money! ‡ waynesautomotivecenter.com 10

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real

Women

Southern

SELF-PROTECTION

by Amy Pittsenbarger photos by Heather Sargent Photography

H

idden Heat, founded by Suzanne Rye in 2011, offers training for concealed weapon permits and other firearm training. Rye is also a member of the Aiken and national chapters of The Well Armed Woman. She is NRA certified to teach classes in Personal Protection In The Home, Refuse to Be a Victim and Basic Pistol Instruction.

She is certified through the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) as a Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP) instructor. The eight-hour classes to obtain a CWP are offered every two weeks and Rye also teaches advanced classes.

“My mission is to make the process of obtaining a South Carolina CWP, and becoming both safe and proficient with a firearm, as pleasant and efficient as possible,” says Rye. Hidden Heat has two instructors, Rye and Bobby Montgomery. Also present at the shooting range is two range safety officers, so that there are always four people available to ensure complete safety. “I [will] stay on the range with students until they are comfortable and confident with their weapon,” says Rye. People attending the class need to bring their own gun, if they have one, a holster, 50 rounds of ammunition and their driver’s

license. There’s no need to worry if you do not have your own firearm, as Hidden Heat has five Ruger SR .22’s that are available for use on the range and ammunition at a minimal cost. The classroom portion of the class is taught at Andy Watford’s Karate Studio in Aiken.

Hidden Heat also offers additional hand-to-hand self-defense classes with Watford, a 10th degree black belt.

It typically takes 90-120 days to obtain a CWP. Classes average 10-12 participants and there are usually a fairly equal number of men and women attending, but Rye says that has not always been the case in the world of firearm

training. “When I took my class in the mid 1990s, I was the only woman in a class of 19. Now, we have many women who are interested in learning about guns and becoming proficient with their weapon of choice,” explains Rye.

should take concealed weapons classes. She says firearms are “the most efficient tools generally available to eliminate the advantage of those among us who choose to be predators or assailants of those who are smaller or weaker.”

According to Rye, the class includes “class instruction on safety, types of guns and their safe handling and operation, state laws regarding concealed weapons and self-defense, range time, lunch, and fingerprints”. Hidden Heat sends in all the paperwork for students and there is a SLED fee.

“Unfortunately, the world we live in can be dangerous at times,” says Rye on the topic of why people

The legal age to carry a firearm is 21 years old. However, CWP classes are available for people 18 and older, and people can hold onto the paperwork for up to three years. If you or anyone in your family is interested in learning more about Hidden Heat and the classes they offer, call (803) 640-2624, check out their Facebook page, or visit them online at www.hiddenheat. vpweb.com. www.aikenwomanonline.com

11

A Survivor’s STRENGTH

You Choose the Road You Want to Walk (Judith Evans)

by Amy Pittsenbarger photos by Heather Sargent Photography

12

Real Women Aiken Woman c e l e b r a t e s t h e s u r v i vo r i n yo u

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Celebrating the

Survivor in You!

J

udith Evans was born in 1932, in Silesia, Germany, a town that now is a part of Poland. She lived with her mother, grandmother and younger brother. Her mother was not a practicing Jew and very much considered herself German. Despite her mother’s constant reassurances that no harm would come to them, Evans suffered social and physical exclusion because of the yellow star on her clothing. In 1941, her 28 year-old mother was taken from their home and deported to Ravensbrück, a woman’s concentration camp in Northern Germany. Evans never saw her again.

Just weeks later, Evans’ grandmother was also seized and moved to barracks assembled in a nearby cemetery. At that time, it was said that Jews were being taken away to “work for the effort of the war.” It was not considered worthwhile to transport elderly people to camps where they would have been unable to work. “Nazi Youth” guarded the barracks, and it was a risk to sneak in; Evans was caught and beaten at least once. One day, when Evans managed to sneak in, her grandmother was gone. She was told that her grandmother had died two days before of starvation, and that she had been buried the day after death, per Jewish tradition. Evans describes feeling set apart from the other people there, because she had not been raised Orthodox and was unaware of these traditions.

This tragedy led Evans to begin exploring the notion that she accept her Jewish heritage, as she no longer felt she could be a part of the German people who had taken her mother and grandmother.

Neighbors took Evans and her brother to the safety of a Catholic convent. Evans and her brother lived in the convent for the remainder of the war, sheltered by a group of nuns. She attended public school during the day, where she was taught propaganda lessons about the “pure race” of Germans.

“Then we were shown a few caricatures of dirty Jews…the words “dirt” and “Jews” went together every time. They said a typical Jew would kill for money. But one thing I knew, my mother, grandmother and I are Jewish; my house wasn’t dirty. I started to doubt the

brainwashing, the things that I was told about myself,” describes Evans of her experience.

In 1946, Evans was sent to an upscale boarding school in Jerusalem. “We had the best teachers. I was very lucky. In 1947, I joined the youth of the resistance against British rule in Israel. [I was] trained with weapons, [I] would have been jailed if I were caught. During the war, I became active to help.

Jerusalem was surrounded…we couldn’t go in or out. My duty was to be a messenger between sniper stations, to bring messages about troop placements. Bullets go over your head, you will never forget it,” says Evans, matter-of-factly.

At the age of 18, in an attempt to start saving money, Evans became the manager of an camp of refugees who had fled from Arab countries after the war with Israel.

350 Yemen families lived in the camp in the Israeli mountains and Evans was the sole leader—“I had to help the women to give birth, to distribute the food, to take care of children,” says Evans. “Several children had died, so I went to the capital and asked to speak to David Ben-Gurion, the prime minister. I said I would stay there until he came out. When he did, I said, ‘I’m working in a camp. I buried several babies, send a army unit to help us.’ He looked at me and said ‘Girl, go back. It will be okay.’ A week later, a military company came.

The captain asked to speak to the director and they sent for me. He said, ‘I asked for the director, not his secretary.’ I said, ‘I am the director.’,” says Evans with a small

smile. One of the men, Chaim, an officer in that company would later become Evan’s husband. In 1951, they married and had a son and daughter. In 1964, they were stationed in Fort Knox, Kentucky for a year, which was Evans’ first trip to America. “In America, I started to learn how to talk in front of groups of people,” says Evans.

Sadly, in 1967, Chaim was killed in the 6-Day War. At the time of his death, he was second in command to Ariel Sharon, later Israel’s 11th Prime Minister.

After her time managing the camp, Evans went on to pursue a career in education. “We all have some traumatic experience. What do I do with it? For me, I became a teacher. It was very important to educate and to teach children to think…to be responsible,” says Evans, when I asked her how she came to choose this career. Coinciding with her formal training in an Israeli university, Evans became the youngest school principal in Israel. She quickly created a name for herself in the field. “I knew that I had to change the system.

You cannot measure everyone by the same criterion. We will have groups to meet their needs; kids will be graded by their progress.

Then I started a middle school with the same system. My schools had the highest recognition of achievement in Israel. I trained school principals how to cater to needs of students, not the curriculum…. every child is different; intelligence is not measured in how good you are in math. My greatest fight as an educator was to show there are all kinds of intelligence,” says Evans.

In 1982, Evans was offered a job in Belgium with a school for children of Israeli diplomats. She met Tom Evans there, and they married in 1988. “I never thought I would marry again, but he was stubborn,” says Evans fondly. Today, Evans teaches courses at USC on the topic of continuing education and prepares youth for their bar and bat mitzvahs. Evans says the thing that brings her the most joy is speaking to students at local Aiken schools about her experience during the Holocaust. While she and I were speaking, she showed me a collection of letters that students have written her and read aloud some of her favorite excerpts. “I would hate to degrade someone like your fellow students and your teacher did to you. I will always keep that in mind if I ever find myself teasing somebody,” Evans reads from one letter. She says this is an important lesson for both children and educators to hear. “I now have a new respect to minorities and those who are treated wrongfully because of race, sex, or religion,” a second letter says. “These letters are my reward. I know I’ve reached them… changed them,” says Evans.

Of her life as a whole, Evans has this to say, “I had the choice to grow up with hatred or to do something out of my experience.

Life is a journey; and you choose the road you want to walk. If you [do] not leave behind something that makes the world better, your life is in vain,” she explains. If that’s the case, here’s to a life lived very much not in vain! www.aikenwomanonline.com

13

THE DAYBREAK

DIFFERENCE:

The Woman Behind the Business

by Rebecca VignĂŠ

photos by Heather Sargent Photography

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

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Women

Professional

M

aria Shriver once said, “Women can have it all, just not at the same time.” For Chrissa Matthews, this was certainly true 10 or so years ago as she and her husband were starting their family here in Aiken. Now, however, Matthews says she is able to come close, as she raises her children and manages her business, DayBreak Adult Care Services in Aiken. She says the key to running a business as a working mother is having good teams in place in all aspects of her life. “I am blessed to have support from those at work, from my family, and from my friends,” Matthews adds.

Women by nature are caring, compassionate, nurturing creatures. They care for their families, friends, and those in the community. Chrissa Matthews is no different. She has taken these natural traits and turned them into a career that she loves, while balancing family life with her husband and two children. When she’s not busy running her business, she and her husband enjoy supporting their children’s athletic and musical endeavors, as well as relaxing at home with them. They love living in Aiken because it is a wonderful place to own a business as well as raise a family. Matthews says “We live in a very special community that offers the best of many worlds. Aiken supports locally owned business, and also offers a wonderful place to raise our family. What more could you ask for?”

Matthews, who has lived in Aiken for the last 20 years, began her career as a speech therapist after graduating from the University of South Carolina Aiken. She went on to earn her Master’s Degree +30 in Speech-Language Pathology at South Carolina State University. After working in the speech industry for over 10 years, she and her husband, Chad Matthews, recognized the need for a locally owned home care organization in Aiken. “Most seniors prefer to stay in their homes, where they feel most comfortable, for as long as possible. It’s our job to make that happen as professionally and pleasantly as possible, for all involved in the process,” Matthews explains.

The transition from speech therapy to running a home care service company was fairly smooth due to Matthews’s experience going into homes, targeting ways to help patients, and putting a care plan into place as a speech therapist. She still uses these skills she acquired to run DayBreak. Matthews admits that she never pictured

herself in this role. The biggest challenge that she faced when opening the DayBreak office in Aiken was assuming her new position as a manager. “The role was new to me, but I had a lot of support from home.”

Her husband, Chad, has over 15 years of management experience and is a small business owner as well. “Chad was there to coach me through my new role as an owner and manager. It has added a new dimension to our marriage that we have both enjoyed. We are able to talk business, bounce ideas off of each other, and learn from one another’s work experiences.”

helping seniors live out their lives while maintaining their dignity and independence. In addition to her family and business, Chrissa serves her community through her involvement as a Board Member for Mental Health America, the Council on Aging, Aiken County Chamber Board, and USCA Etherredge Center Cultural Series, as well as member of the Aiken Rotary Club.

The joy comes from being able to make a difference through helping seniors live out their lives while maintaining their dignity and independence.

Matthews loves her work for many reasons, but most importantly, because she is able to help make a difference in her clients’ lives. She tells the story of a couple who retired here with no children, and nieces and nephews far away.

She and her staff helped handle many details of the couples’ life. Her entire office staff and the caregivers were involved in different ways with the care of this couple, through organizing transportation for them, ensuring safety measures were in place, making sure that they had groceries and were eating properly, and eventually, dealing with delicate matters as the husband became ill and eventually passed and the wife’s Alzheimer’s progressed. The joy comes from being able to make a difference through

The key to success at DayBreak is the invaluable staff, comprised of seasoned home care professionals who work together as a team to understand the needs of the clients and their families.

The DayBreak staff of caregivers is well trained, bonded, licensed, and insured, with criminal background checks, drug testing, and on-going training for all employees.

DayBreak is proud to serve Aiken County, and specific services include 24/7 care, respite care, grocery shopping, Alzheimer’s and related dementia care, meal preparation, light housekeeping, laundry, hospital/facility sitting, companionship, transportation, medication reminders, errands, home health, palliative, or hospice support, bathing assistance, and dressing assistance. For more information, call 803-226-0288 or www.daybreakcare.com. Experience the DayBreak Difference!

www.aikenwomanonline.com

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Professional

Who is Megiddo Dream Station?

K

ay is a believer. She believes in a holy and righteous God. She believes that people are created for a purpose and that joy comes when our lives are in line with His purpose. She believes everyone has potential and value, that children should be treasured and trained to live productive, fulfilled lives, and that seniors should be honored and respected. She believes healthy adults should work for the things they want and need, and that many of the programs meant to help the poor actually destroy their pride and sense of worth.

Kay is quick to say she has not always made good choices. That is why she is passionate about sharing the good news that she serves a God who specializes in restoring people to His plan and transforming hearts for His glory.

Kay Benitez was born in a small town in Alabama while her father was on Christmas break. He was a junior at Troy State University, where he graduated and then completed a Masters plus 30 at Emory University. A few years later, he completed a Masters at the Baptist seminary in New Orleans. Her father attended school and worked multiple jobs during most of her childhood; his work ethic being carried on through Kay, who has multiple degrees and a work history that is daunting, often having worked at least three jobs at a time.

Her jobs have included Recruitment Support at UGA, high school science teacher at Social Circle High and South Aiken Christian, Industrial Hygienist at Golden State Foods, pianist/organist and piano teacher at multiple churches, preschool science teacher at

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Grace United Methodist PreSchool, Director of Aiken County Commission of Disabilities, Chief Operating Officer of a psychiatric hospital, Director of Disability Services at USC Aiken, Career Service Director and business instructor at Savannah River College, and South Carolina Development Officer at Golden Harvest Food Bank.

The common thread is: there is no common thread. When asked why, Kay says she always tried to follow God’s path for her life. She never understood His leading until March 2012 when Mr. Weldon Wyatt called and asked her to be the Executive Director of a nonprofit in Graniteville that would

The Megiddo Dream Station’s mission is to create selfsustaining families living fulfilling lives through Christ.

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Women

provide a comprehensive service plan for people who were unemployed and needed support to get back into the workforce. Her career shifts have exposed her to all the areas that need to be addressed— career training, education, sports, disabilities, psychiatry, industrial regulations, music, poverty and food sourcing.

As Executive Director of the Megiddo Dream Station, Kay is amazed at the work God is doing in the lives of the men and women who participate in their programs. The Megiddo Dream Station’s mission is to create selfsustaining families living fulfilling

lives through Christ. Their core program targets people who have been unemployed for at least six months. Participants attend classes in job search skills, budget planning, bible study, communication, cooking on a budget, personal care and personal skills. All participants must complete at least 20 hours of community service, attend at least two job fairs, participate in at least two on-the-job trainings, and maintain a 95% attendance record.

Their graduates not only find jobs, but through their intensive training and follow-up program, tend to excel in those jobs.

Eric and Rain Dowling have five children. Both Dowlings lost their jobs years ago and looked for work, but as days turned into months and months into years, they began to lose all hope. In their early 30s, the discouragement and depression cut the family off from the outside world and from that point on, they simply existed. In September of 2012, Eric saw a

Professional news story about the Dream Station. He stirred up enough courage to walk through the door, eyes on the floor, and barely able to speak at his interview. He testifies that it was a day that changed his life forever. He completed the program and is now successfully employed, excited about his future, and encouraging his wife to complete the program.

Sharon Kelley worked for a fast food company for 33 years. She started there at 16 and worked her way up to become a Regional Manager. When she lost her job, she was devastated. During a three year period of time, she only left the house when absolutely necessary. A close friend encour-

aged her to go to the Dream Station Open House and that day was the beginning of a bright future. Sharon now works part-time and volunteers with the Megiddo Dream Station. She is comfortable speaking to groups and sharing her story, but her passion is for the people who walk through the door— like she did—offering them words of encouragement and hope.

The Megiddo Dream Station accepts anyone who truly desires to get into the workforce. If you have lost hope, give them a call. If you are living in despair, give them a call. If you want a fresh start, give them a call. The program is intensive, but the results are phenomenal.

CORE CURRICULUM (8 weeks, 2 days per week)

Job Training — learn how to prepare resumes, cover letters, applications and career plans; also participate in mock interviews by local employers.

Communications Class — learn how to resolve conflict, introduce people, speak to employers/coworkers, use proper English; also learn about nonverbal communication.

Budget Planning — take a look at how much you spend and look for better ways to budget your money; also attend a couponing class.

Personal Development — learn to cook healthy meals on a budget, repair clothing, pick out clothing, select make-up and hair styles; also

attend advanced sewing and knitting classes.

Bible Study — participate in bible study with other participants and discover God’s plan for your life.

Community Service — give back to the community at least 20 hours during the 8 week class.

ADVANCED CLASSES Caregiver Training — for students who are interested in working for companies who offer basic caregiving in the home.

Office Assistant Training — for students who are interested in working in an office or developing office skills.

Entrepreneur Class — for students who want to start their own business.

"Creating self-sustaining families through Christ-centered employment training"

103 Canal Street Graniteville, SC 29829

803-392-7044 www.Megiddodreamstation.org

www.aikenwomanonline.com

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Professional

The BEST of Hands

by Rachel-Elise Weems

F

or over 82 years, Allstate has been one of the leading insurance providers in the United States. Currently the largest publicly held insurance company in the nation, it is also the country’s second largest personal lines insurance provider. Over 16 million American households choose to entrust their futures each day, from their homes, cars, lives and retirement, to the hands the Allstate family. For the last 12 of those years, Melissa Moski has been a part of that family and those futures within her local community.

Moski strives to live by that motto in her practice, going above and beyond merely supplying clients with an insurance policy. She explains that to her, it is also about genuinely relating to and prioritizing the individuals she connects to through her work. “I care about these people,” said Moski. “They’re not just a paycheck to me.”

“The customer is at the center of everything,” said Moski, exclusive agent and owner of the Allstate agency in Aiken, S.C.. “That’s been our motto for the last several years.”

Whatever form that care may take, it is always an investment she is willing to go out of the way to make. “I don’t do what I do for gratitude or thanks,” Moski said.

“What I find most rewarding is if I can make their lives a little bit better.” Whether that means comforting a family during the loss of

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

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Melissa Moski

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a loved one, providing emergency housing after a fire or simply traveling to the site of an automobile accident, she seeks opportunities to reassure customers that they placed their trust in the right company.

Allstate has insured Moski herself for nearly 20 years, and she credits the confidence she has in the company today as the result of her time as a customer.

“They’ve always been very good to me,” recalled Moski. It was an experience that would ultimately lead her to begin working for All-

state in 2001, with the very agent who had handled and cared for her family in the preceding years.

By 2012, she had purchased the agency and taken on the title of exclusive agent.

“I can’t work for someone I don’t believe in,” Moski said, recounting how the years prior to working for Allstate had made an impact in her own life. “For me and many clients, it’s about that personal touch; knowing who you’re dealing with and trusting who you’re dealing with. ” When life throws the unexpected at one of her people, Moski makes sure that she and her staff are right there beside them to help pick up the pieces. For this agent, it isn’t enough to ensure customers that they’re just in goods hands. “We’re the best of hands,” said Moski.

Health & Wellness

MEET Dr. Edward Jakubs OF COLON AND RECTAL SURGERY ASSOCIATES

by Beth McCrary

F

or as long as Dr. Edward Jakubs can remember he has been drawn to medicine for a variety of reasons. As a child, he remembers looking into things to see how they worked. He remembers taking electronics apart and trying to fix them by putting them back together again. In high school and college, he was the person people came to with their troubles and concerns. Even people who did not know him shared their worries.

I think the most important thing to consider is that when you mention screening is to understand that it is essential regardless of having symptoms.

Edward Jakubs, Jr., M.D. He also remembers going through boxes at his grandmother’s house and coming across a newspaper clipping from his freshmen year in high school with the title, “Scalpel Please!” It was a photo of a very young Dr. Jakubs, showing Dr. Lixner’s 6th grade biology class how to dissect a fetal pig. Surely it was a foreshadowing of things to come.

Now a practicing surgeon with a medical degree from Ohio State University, people continue to come to Dr. Jakubs with their troubles and concerns. Dr. Jacobs has been a partner in Colon and Rectal Surgery Associates in Aiken for the past 8 years along with his two partners, Dr. David H. Gibbs and Dr. Virginia B. Winburn.

The majority of concerns his patients bring to him today involve irritable bowel syndrome and con-

stipation issues from the medical aspect. From the surgical aspect, the concerns are anal rectal disorders such as hemorrhoids, fissures or incontinence. In addition, there is the surgical management of cancer which is a very large part of the practice including routine diagnostics and the screening colonoscopy for prevention.

“I think the most important thing to consider is that when you mention screening is to understand that it is essential regardless of having symptoms. Screening is by definition when there are no symptoms and it is for routine purposes starting at age 50 or younger if there is a family history of colon cancer.” Symptoms such as bleeding, changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss or unexplained anemia all warrant evaluation before the age of 50.

The most important thing in screening colonoscopy is to remove polyps because polyps can turn into colon cancer. The goal for

a colonoscopy is not to find cancer but to prevent cancer by removing the polyps. Cancers that are found early have a 95% or higher cure rate from surgery alone. Dr. Jakubs cautions that small colon polyps cause no symptoms and even moderate to large polyps typically cause no symptoms so until the polyps are very large or have transitioned to cancer, the likelihood of them causing symptoms is minimal.

The risks and the troubles of going through a colonoscopy are minimal but the benefits are phenomenal by preventing or getting an early diagnosis for cancer.

Dr. Jakubs finds the most rewarding aspect of his career to be the patient interaction and the positive outcomes like surgically curing cancer or preventing it all together and fixing simple problems that are causing daily troubles.

He freely admits that the most challenging aspect of his work is the paperwork and bureaucracy.

In just 8 years of practice, he has

seen drastic changes in the medical field. He yearns for the days when it was just about taking care of the patient and not dealing with the paperwork, electronic medical records, government intervention and insurance issues. It is so much simpler and more rewarding to fix the patient than the insurance and government imposed hurdles that both the practice and the patient are required to jump through to give and get quality medical care.

Dr. Jakub’s vision for his practice is to remain firmly established and entrenched in the community and to offer quality care to his patients for a long time to come. By establishing himself in the Aiken community both personally and professionally there is a continuity of care and a relationship that will be there forever.

The most important takeaway is understanding that a colonoscopy screening is to prevent colon cancer not find it. A screening colonoscopy should not be feared because it is there for prevention.

Many people do not think they want to know if they have cancer, but early screening is truly the best prevention. If symptoms are present do not delay the evaluation, but go ahead and have it checked out.

Peace of mind is worth the trip and early detection is better than waiting until it is too late. www.aikenwomanonline.com

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THANK YOU Kristen Sojourner, LMT, MEd

from My Aiken Body

by Kristen Sojourner

E

arly morning one Saturday, I arrived at our downtown massage studio and answered a call from a gentleman who was looking for a massage appointment for his son. His son, a young Army soldier, had just arrived home from deployment in Afghanistan and was being shipped off Monday to Fort Stewart. The massage had to be that day.

The father said he’d had trouble finding a therapist or a spa that was open or that wasn’t booked solid and his son really needed the rest and care.

this interaction, she also gave her thanks to the boy and his father and paid for his massage. It was a touching scene. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house.

My Aiken Body was, in fact, booked solid that day as well; it was a busy holiday weekend. But I couldn’t turn that boy or his father away. We made room.

It’s moments like this which make me so thankful to be a part of a

Therapist Jacki DaVia was checking out the client ahead of the young soldier when he and his father walked in. They introduced themselves, much conversation ensued. “Thank you for your service!” was the theme.

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

From My Aiken Body Restorative Massage: We are grateful for all of our service men and women, for firefighters, policemen, military.

It’s moments like this one which make me so thankful to be a part of a business where healing, care and service are the center of every day.

The client who had just received her massage was so moved by

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business where healing, care and service are the center of every day.

It brings out the best in humanity.

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Women

Thank you for your service and commitment to our communities and to our country. Come and see us any time!

Kristen Sojourner, LMT, MEd, is a freelance writer, musician, artist, certified teacher, licensed massage therapist and owner of My Aiken Body Restorative Massage. Visit www.myaikenbody.com for more information.

Health & Wellness

MEET Dr. Brooke Usry!

by Rebecca Vigné

B

rooke Usry, DMD is the newest addition to the Center for Dentistry team. A Beech Island native, she did not have to move far to assume her new role as a dentist at Center for Dentistry. Dr. Usry graduated with her undergraduate degree from USC Aiken where she was heavily involved in research. She received her doctorate at the Medical College of Georgia and completed her general practice residency there as well. In her residency, she received training in medically compromised patients, implant surgery and restoration, bone grafting, sinus lift surgeries, IV sedation, and complex prosthodontics.

Dr. Usry is a true southern girl. “We had horses in my high school years and a mini farm complete with goats, pigs, a bull, chickens, turkeys, and quail,” Usry recalls. In her spare time, this dentist enjoys oil and acrylic painting as well as woodworking. She enjoys making art from wood and old tin. She loves Aiken because it is where her parents live and she believes the food is amazing.

Dr. Usry always loved science and knew that she wanted to work in the medical profession.

She was inspired by her dentist, orthodontist, and oral surgeon growing up. “They were all awesome, and I wanted to be like them,” she recalls. Dr. Usry chose dentistry because it allows her to serve in healthcare physically and mentally. “I like to work with my hands; it fulfills the artistic side of me,” she explains. She also enjoys the interaction with her patients and the challenge of the job which is why she favors surgeries and loves treating children.

Dr. Usry is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Dental Association, International Congress of Oral Implantologists, and the South Carolina Dental Association. She is excited to be a part of Center for Dentistry and just took this new position in the beginning of July.

Center for Dentistry has carefully selected dental hygienists with training to support the broad continuum of care offered, and they ensure that all staff continue their professional education so the practice can offer the latest treatments and service. Center for Dentistry uses the latest technology, including digital, 3-D and panoramic x-rays; diagnodent lasers for early detection of cavities; intra-oral cameras to enable patients to see

what the doctor sees; and diode lasers for minor soft-tissue surgeries.

The expertise available at the Center for Dentistry allows patients to see one doctor rather than two or three other specialists. The doctors often help patients who have seen multiple specialists for procedures such as implant

Dr. Usry chose dentistry because it allows her to serve in healthcare physically and mentally. dentistry. Each specialist might have a different technique and the patient cannot seem to get the help that they need because they are passed from doctor to doctor. At the Center for Dentistry, Dr. Wilkins and Dr. Usry are able to complete many reconstructive surgeries in one sitting which allows a patient to get a more natural, healthier smile and reduces time and cost for the patient. The staff at the center is careful not to overbook patients, so the large waiting room stays fairly empty, and patient wait times are very low.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 803.642.9452, visit www. aikendental.com, or stop by the office at 1391 Silver Bluff Road in Aiken. You Can Smile! www.aikenwomanonline.com

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What every Aiken body needs.

Therapeutic Massage for Optimal Health and Wellness Schedule Appointments Online @ MyAikenBody.com

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(803) 641-4874 137 Miracle Drive NW Aiken, South Carolina 29801 440 Society Hill Dr. Suite 202 Aiken, SC 29803

WWW.CAROLINAHVC.COM AIKEN CARDIOVASCULAR ASSOCIATES David W. Cundey, M.D., F.A.C.C. Ansermo L. Arthur, M.D., F.A.C.C. Gregory L. Eaves, M.D., F.A.C.C.

AIKEN CARDIOVASCULAR SURGICAL ASSOCIATES L. Dieter Voegele, M.D., F.A.C.S. Thomas P. Paxton, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Idris S. Sharaf, M.D., F.A.C.C. Weems R. Pennington, III, M.D., F.A.C.C.

Or call us at 803.761.1127

Aiken Locations to Serve You:

109 Laurens Street, NW, Downtown Aiken 440 Society Hill Drive at The Village Heath & Wellness Center

Zoom H. Heaton

Pharmacist, CDE

Custom Prescription Compounders, LLC

CALL TODAY and make an appointment for a blood nutrition consultation and discover your nutritional needs for a healthier today and tomorrow…….

194 Crepe Myrtle Drive Aiken, South Carolina 29803 803.648.7800 www.nooneshoerx.com

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Health & Wellness photo by Lista’s Studio of Photography

What HORMONES

Make Us FAT?

by Zoom H. Heaton Zoom H. Heaton

H

ave you put on a few pounds for no apparent reason? Your diet hasn’t really changed and in fact you’re eating less and doing more….and for some of you exercise has become an obsession but with very little weight loss and a whole lot of frustration. If you’ve dieted and dieted and have gotten nowhere, it’s time to consider that the problem could be your hormones.

There are some critical hormones to think about when it comes to our gradual weight gain and our struggles to take weight off: Sex hormones (Estrogen, Progesterone, Testosterone), Cortisol, Thyroid, and Insulin. Hormones are intricate and complex entities that control almost every aspect of our daily lives, from our reproductive functions and our appearance to our sleep, and even the way we store and burn fat. Over time we start to experience subtle symptoms of hormonal imbalance.

Some of these symptoms manifest as feeling tired after eating, having difficulty falling asleep, or waking up each night between 2 a.m. and 4 a.m. Also, have you noticed that you don’t wake up as fresh and bright as you used to, or you’re having food cravings every day at 3 p.m. How about walking into a room and you can’t remember what you’re there for or can’t recall someone’s name as quickly as you used to. Changes in libido, mood, memory, focus, food cravings, sleep habits are all signs of a hormonal imbalance.

Different hormones contribute differently to weight gain. A drop in estrogen and progesterone can increase a woman’s appetite and

cause her to eat up to 67% more according to one study. Testosterone helps a woman’s body create lean muscle mass out of the calories consumed. Muscle cells burn more calories than fat cells do, increasing metabolic rate. As testosterone levels drop, fewer calories are transformed into lean muscle mass, thus a woman’s metabolism winds down.

Cortisol, a stress hormone produced by the adrenal glands, can be a detriment to your health if levels stay elevated over a prolonged period of time. Cortisol can increase your appetite and cravings, cause a loss of muscle mass, libido, and bone density and also contributes to depression and memory loss. Staying stressed is NOT normal and our bodies don’t like it and we start to balloon in our weight in direct response to the amount and level of stress we’re under. Another hormone to consider if you’re packing on the pounds and feeling tired is thyroid hormone, the master metabolic control mechanism. A lack of thyroid hormone (a condition called hypo-

thyroidism) is connected to weight gain, as well as dry hair and skin, fatigue, and sluggishness.

Finally, insulin plays a crucial role in weight gain. Insulin is a critical hormone for the control of blood sugar (glucose). Produced by the pancreas in response to abnormally high levels of sugar in the blood (such as when we eat a candy bar or drink a soda), Insulin gives the body a very powerful message: “Get these sugar levels down as fast as you can by storing them as fat”! So anytime you have eaten simple sugars (foods that break down easily into sugar in the blood) and your sugar levels are raised above the acceptable healthy range, you are asking your body to deposit FAT.

Now you know the main hormones that can be a factor in deterring stubborn weight loss. Hormones are complex entities and balancing them takes time and expertise.

If you suspect that any of these hormones can be culprits in your inability to drop those unwanted pounds, talk to your doctor about blood testing or saliva testing to find out which hormones are involved and what care plan it takes to help get you back on track.

If you feel that hormones are contributing to your weight gain or if you’re just curious as to what your hormone profile looks like, please contact TLC Medical Centre pharmacy. We can get you started with a hormone package that can help get your hormonal health back on track.

www.aikenwomanonline.com

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Health & Wellness

Meet the Aiken Vein Doctors!

by Rebecca Vigné

T

wo cardiologists in Aiken are working together to treat venous disease. Aiken Vein is a new division of Carolina Heart and Vascular Center in Aiken, South Carolina. Carolina Heart and Vascular Center has been successfully diagnosing and treating vein disease for years. The center hopes to grow their practice by offering vein treatment through Aiken Vein. Dr. Ansermo Arthur and Dr. Weems Pennington III have provided these medical services and will continue to receive patients as the Aiken Vein doctors. The new treatment center will be located in the same office as Carolina Heart and Vascular Center for the convenience of Aiken patients, and all vein treatments are performed in-house. There is a possibility of expansion for Aiken Vein at The Village at Woodside in the near future, but for now they will treat patients at their Miracle Drive location.

Dr. Arthur and Dr. Pennington recently made their Aiken Vein debut at the Aiken Downtown Development Association’s Annual Beach Blast.

The doctors sponsored the 2013 Best Leg Contest with four categories for men and women to compete in. The idea was to get contestants to take pride in their legs. This goes along with Aiken Vein’s new slogan, “Unveil Your Legs”.

The contest was a success, and both doctors felt welcomed by the community involvement.

Dr. Ansermo Arthur and Dr. Weems Pennington are board certified by the American Boards of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease and Interventional Cardiology. They specialize in interventional treatment of cardiovascular disease to include the diagnosis and treatment of all types of cardiac and peripheral arterial and venous disease. Dr. Arthur explains how the center began treating venous disease. “It made sense that as cardiologists, we are in an excellent position to manage people with vein problems since we see those patients on a regular basis for other vascular related problems. When Dr. Pennington came to Carolina Heart and Vascular Center, he had experience treating venous disease, and we were able to begin offering vein treatment to our patients.”

Studies show that the prevalence of venous disease will increase over the next few years and become the most common cause of vascular disease in the United States.

This is partially due to the fact that people are on their feet more during the day and because technology now allows better disease recognition and diagnosis. Symptoms as-

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sociated with varicose veins include aching or throbbing pain in the legs. Sometimes these varicose veins can be easily seen on the surface of a person’s legs, but more often they are only detectable through an ultrasound examination.

“Many times people do not realize why their legs are aching because there is no physical sign of varicose veins,” Dr. Pennington explains.

At Aiken Vein, doctors bring each patient in for an initial consultation where they discuss any problems. They schedule a diagnostic study which includes an ultrasound. The ultrasound allows the doctors to see the venous reflux or the leakiness of the veins. After the results come back, a treatment plan is discussed with the patient to achieve the desired results. Most vein procedures take between 15 and 45 minutes, and the center treats one to two veins per session. Aiken Vein uses IV Sedation which allows patients to feel relaxed during procedures. Doctors at Aiken Vein use radio frequency ablation which works better than other methods and causes less pain and bruising. Success rate with radio frequency ablation is higher than with laser treatment. After the procedure is completed, the doctors bring patients in for a one week follow up ultrasound.

Aiken Vein is a branch of Carolina Heart and Vascular Center located at 137 Miracle Drive near Aiken Regional. For more information or to make an appointment, call (803) 641-4874 or visit www.carolinahvc.com.

DO YOU WANT TO PREVENT COLON CANCER? ANY OF THE FOLLOWING SHOULD PROMPT EVALUATION • Age over 50 and no screening colonoscopy yet performed • Age over 40 with family history of colon cancer • Rectal bleeding • Rectal pain (routine internal hemorrhoids DO NOT cause pain) • Significant changes in bowel habit

The surgeons of Colon & Rectal Surgery Associates are the only physicians in Aiken County Board Certified by the American Board of Colon & Rectal Surgeons.

If You’re Over 50, You’re at Risk for Colorectal Cancer Getting Screened for the Disease Could Save Your Life

“Let’s beat the cancer nobody has to have.”

We provide comprehensive care for all major & minor colon and rectal problems including:

• Colon Cancer: Laparoscopic (minimally invasive) • Rectal Cancer: surgical management including sphincter sparing procedures (avoiding a colostomy) • Fecal Incontinence: Sphincter Repair Surgery • Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Surgical management • Pilonidal Disease • Anorectal Problems: Hemorrhoids, Fissures, Fistulas, Abscesses • Colonoscopy

David H. Gibbs, M.D.

Virginia B. Winburn, M.D. Edward J. Jakubs, Jr., M.D.

Board Certified by the American Board of Colon & Rectal Surgery, and the American Board of Surgery

410 University Parkway, Aiken, SC • Suite 2100

CALL 803-648-1171 FOR AN APPOINTMENT TODAY

See all of our past issues online at www.aikenwomanonline.com

Caregivers, we can help.

When you can’t do it alone, let BeWell Home Services’ caregivers help you continue care at home.

Faith Based, Non Profit, Non-Medical Home Care • Companionship & supervision • Assistance with personal care • EEOICPA benefits provider

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• Transportation • Medication reminders

Aiken 803.643.4220 Lowcountry 843.377.4663 Midlands 803.251.4663 Spartanburg 864.804.5910 Upstate 864.334.4663 www.aikenwomanonline.com

25

Health & Wellness

Women’s LifeCare Diagnostic Services at Aiken Regional Medical Centers Advanced diagnostics for women’s unique health concerns At Women’s LifeCare Diagnostic Services, you can receive mammograms, routine X-rays, bone densitometry (bone density screening) and stereotactic breast biopsies — performed by a certified, all-female staff in conjunction with board-certified radiologists and surgeons.

We are accredited by the American College of Radiology and certified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

On guard against breast cancer – the digital advantage Women’s LifeCare Diagnostic Services now provides all-digital mammography imaging, which can help detect breast cancer at early stages, when it’s most treatable. Digital mammography provides a number of other advantages over traditional screen film mammography: • Sharper, more detailed images than screen film imaging

Women’s LifeCare Diagnostic Services now provides all-digital mammography imaging, which can help detect breast cancer at early stages, when it’s most treatable.

How often should women have breast exams?

• Studies have shown that digital mammography detects a higher number of breast cancers in women 50 and younger, or in women with dense breasts, than screen film imaging.

• Quicker mammograms (no waiting for film to be developed) • Images can be viewed immediately by technologists and radiologists, and easily transferred electronically.

• Computers help radiologists detect micro-calcifications that may be missed on traditional film mammograms.

The center works closely with the breast health nurse navigator, who helps women through the process of follow-up diagnostic mammograms, surgery and treatment, if necessary.

Contact Us There’s only one place to go for women’s imaging services … Women’s LifeCare Diagnostic Services at Aiken Regional Medical Centers.

Women’s LifeCare Diagnostic Services is located at 400 Medical Center Drive on the campus of Aiken Regional Medical Centers.

Call 803.641.5065 for more information, or 803.641.5808 to schedule an appointment.

Women who do not have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors should follow these guidelines: Age 20 to 39 Have a clinical breast exam every three years and perform a monthly self-examination.

Age 35 to 40 Have a baseline mammogram.

Age 40 and older Have an annual mammogram, annual clinical breast exam and perform a monthly self-examination.

Any woman with a family history of breast cancer or any other risk factors should consult her physician regarding the frequency of examinations.

26

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real

Women

Aiken Regional Medical Centers www.aikenregional.com 302 University Parkway Aiken, SC 29801 Physicians are on the medical staff of Aiken Regional Medical Centers, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Aiken Regional Medical Centers. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians.

Business & Web Directory Automotive Services Wayne’s Automotive & Towing Center............................................. 10 www.waynesautomotivecenter.com

COMPREHENSIVE ORTHOPEDIC CARE FOR ALL AGES

Dentist Center for Dentistry............................................................................ 22 www.aikendental.net Employment Training Megiddo Dream Station..................................................................... 17 www.megiddodreamstation.org Equestrian Training Paradise Farm........................................................................................ 7 www.paradisefarmaiken.com Firearm Training Hidden Heat, LLC............................................................................... 10

We are excited to expand Champion Orthopedics into Aiken!

Operations will begin on December 10th • Monday through Friday 8:30am – 5pm

Dr. Alex Collins • Dr. Edward Crosland • Dr. Jewell Duncan • Dr. Robert Gambrell Dr. Allan Goodrich • Dr. Craig Kerins • Dr. David Minter • Dr. Andy Torrance

General Orthopedics • Joint Replacement • Sports Medicine • Spine Surgery • Minimally Invasive Procedures • Radiology and Casting services SERVING TODDLERS TO SENIORS

AUGUSTA OFFICE

AIKEN OFFICE

1706 Magnolia Way Augusta, GA 30909 (706) 210-7529

440 Society Hill Drive, Ste.100 Aiken, SC 29803 (803) 293-1160

We accept most of the major insurance plans in the region.

Health Services Aiken Chiropractic...................................................Inside Back Cover www.aikenchiropractic.com Aiken Regional Medical Centers....................................... Back Cover www.aikenregional.com Aiken Vein Center............................................................................... 25 www.aikenvein.com BeWell Home Services........................................................................ 25 www.bewellhomeservices.org Carolina Heart & Vascular Center.................................................... 22 www.carolinahvc.com Center for Primary Care..................................................................... 17 www.cpcfamilymed.com

Now Offering Couples Massages You get two Swedish massages

for ONLY $90

One couple, one room, two therapists.

Champion Orthopedics...................................................................... 27 Colon and Rectal Surgery Associates............................................... 25 Custom Prescription Compounders, LLC....................................... 22 www.nooneshoerx.com Family Pharmacy......................................................Inside Back Cover www.aikenpharmacy.com Hearing Associates of South Carolina...................Inside Back Cover www.hearingassociatesofsc.com Herbal Solutions.................................................................................. 27 www.twoherbalsolutions.com Hitchcock Healthcare......................................................................... 22 My Aiken Body.................................................................................... 22 www.myaikenbody.com

Natural Solutions for YOU & YOUR PETS! Aiken’s Choice for MASSAGE THERAPY, HERBS, VITAMINS, & PET FOODS

Palmetto Wellness and Weightloss.........................Inside Back Cover www.aikenweightloss.com Insurance Allstate (Melissa Moski)....................................................................... 8 www.allstate.com Photography Chris’ Camera Center........................................................................... 8 www.chriscamera.com Heather Sargent Photography............................... Inside Front Cover www.hsargent.com

SC License #'s 4526, 7918, 2677, 4806 & 65004

Restaurants Magnolia Market & Cafe...................................................................... 8 www.magnolianaturalmarket.com www.aikenwomanonline.com

27

A Personal Note

I

think I will change the title of this article to “Update on the Duncan Children.” Thank you for giving me a voice to emote about my everyday life. I hope this page in AWM assures you my life is just as busy and sometimes stressful as yours, but there is always time to take a few moments and be grateful for all that we have been entrusted with — especially our children.

Trey finished his Junior year at WKHS. He is looking at colleges and has spent a week of his summer at Palmetto Boys State. He came home with a desire to make a difference in the state of South Carolina. I am so proud of all his accomplishments in the past three years. I would list them here, but you would think I was bragging — and I would be. It is hard to not be proud as a parent when your children make the right choices. Recently he led the music for our praise and worship team at church. It is a blessing to see him growing in his faith as he becomes a man. He is loved.

Proud, yes, but I am also humbled every time I start to think on the goodness of God and how He has brought us so many blessings in the form of each of our children.

Abby and I have grown closer as she gets older. Sometimes her wisdom for a young woman astounds me. I look back at pictures of myself when I was younger and I think, “Why didn’t I appreciate the woman I was at twenty? She wasn’t so bad. She certainly didn’t have some of my current flaws… Her eyes were bright, she was always positive, and though she wasn’t perfect, she was pretty ok.” I want to give that to Abby. I want to teach her not to be too hard on herself now. Just enjoy who you are in this moment. Life will take you places you don’t want to or even mean to go, and those things will change you, some of those roads will make you wiser… some more appreciative… some a little distrustful… but all of them will make you the woman God intended for you to become someday if you allow Him. I hope she knows how I love the young woman she has become and is becoming.

Colton the encourager is strong and independent. I have said this to you before. He was my easiest pregnancy and the easiest delivery. He has a mind of his own and there is no changing it. He has a deep rooted love of his father. I watch the way he looks at my husband and I think, I hope he always looks at his dad that way. A wise man once said to me, “Children always have their mothers and mothers have their children, but children belong to their fathers.” Blessed are the children who have good fathers.

Colton has a strong constant faith and the world is simple to him. You don’t buy things you already have. You don’t change routines and plans unless you are vacationing or having company. He has rules that he lives by. He is learning to make choices. I am so pleased those choices are governed by his sense of right and wrong. He is kind to everyone and very accepting of new friends. He is bothered by injustice in any form. I remember when he learned about slavery at school. He came home outraged. He

said, “Mom, did you know people used to be treated differently based on the color of their skin?” What a wonderful gift to have been ignorant to the prejudices of the world until a history lesson. Every fiber of my being tells me my son Colton will be a family man. “Colton, do you know how much I love you?”

Ryan is my cuddle bunny. He is my long legged six year old who Dr. Reynolds says will probably be the tallest Duncan boy. He still wants “cuddle time” every day. I thank God for giving me a little one who still loves to be held. Ryan isn’t afraid to make friends from complete strangers at a park or wear something other kids might not be wearing yet. His name means “little King” and I may have made the mistake of telling him this a few years ago. Trust me when I tell you he believes in his birthright.

There is a kindness in Ryan. From the time he was only four he has talked about having a family one day and being a dad. He loves to laugh and his big brother Colton is his best friend. He has helped me see the world in a different light. He was never supposed to live past a few hours. They scheduled me for genetic counseling and a level two ultrasound, but God had other plans for the Duncan household. I am so thankful that even tests are wrong sometimes. He graduated kindergarten this year and is ready for first grade. I am not sure I am. I asked him recently, “Ryan, do you know that I love you?”

“Yes.” He answered very matter of factly.

“How do you know?” I asked. I am always intrigued by the way his mind thinks.

“Because you smile every time you look at me.” Oh joy!

My prayer today is that I smile every time I look at each of them. That no matter what life is throwing at me with both barrels I can see the face of my children, and affirm that they are loved. After all, according to Ryan, it only takes a smile. Who will you smile at today?

God Bless,

Lori Samples Duncan

We love because he first loved us.

—1 John 4:19

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real

Women

Why live with varicose veins?

At The Vein Center at Aiken Regional Medical Centers, we provide advanced treatment for varicose veins, spider veins and other vein conditions, including the VNUS Closure™ procedure, a minimally invasive alternative to painful vein-stripping surgery.

To make an appointment, call 803-641-5544.

Physicians are on the medical staff of Aiken Regional Medical Centers, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not agents or employees of Aiken Regional Medical Centers.

The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians.