At Leesburg Regional Medical Center, we live by our Mission to improve your health and well being. The experienced heart surgeon and heart valve team work together seamlessly to pioneer groundbreaking technologies and deliver state-ofthe-art heart valve care.
No matter where you live in the region, you have access to the unparalleled heart valve care that is Leesburg Regional Medical Center Valve Institute.
If you are concerned about your heart valve disease or heart murmur and would like to be evaluated, please call the Heart Care Coordinator today at 352-504-6043.
The area’s finest practicing healthcare professionals combine state of-the-art technologies with state-of-the-heart compassion.
INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL EXCELLENCE
Summerfield 10435 SE 170th Place // 352.233.4393
The Villages 1950 Laurel Manor Dr., Bldg 240 // 352.509.9295
Williston 412 W. Noble Ave. // 352.528.0790 ocalaice.com
LIMBSTITUTE
Summerfield 10435 SE 170th Place // 352.233.4393
Tavares 2754 Dora Ave. // 352.259.5960
The Villages 1050 Old Camp Road // 352.259.5960 limbstitute.com
While exercise is essential to maintain a healthy heart, eating the right kinds of foods is also important. These recipes from the American Heart Association are not only delicious, but they will also have you moving in the right direction toward eating smart for your heart.
WRITER: SHEMIR WILES
The mere mention of the word heart attack conjures up images of an elderly man clutching his heart and falling to the ground. Women, do not let this outdated stereotype give you a false sense of security. While much more attention is typically given to breast cancer, heart disease kills more women each year than all cancers combined. Learn more about this disease through the incredible stories of two local females who suffered heart attacks at a young age.
WRITER: JAMES COMBS
When it comes to drug abuse, most people think of illicit drugs like cocaine and heroin. However, in recent years, there has been a spike in the misuse of prescription medications. The types of medicines abused run the gamut from antidepressants to stimulants. And while combating the problem may be an uphill battle, spreading awareness is the only way to open eyes to this growing epidemic.
WRITER: JIM GIBSON
It has been more than a year since Traci Oliver made a lifestyle change—and, oh, how she has changed! Not only has she lost 90 pounds, but she is also participating in exercises and activities that once seemed impossible for her. Traci shares her latest feats and challenges and reflects on her incredible journey during the past year.
AS TOLD TO: JAMES COMBS
HEALTHYBODY
SHAPE
56 AWESOME ARMS
It’s time to start building beach-ready biceps and triceps.
WRITER: TRACY DRAPER
EAT FIT/NOT FAT
60 EAT “HEART SMART”
The best way to build a strong heart is to eat the right foods.
WRITER: LORI ESAREY, ARNP, ABAAHP, FAARFM, CFT
DEFEND
62 A MATTER OF THE HEART
Work to prevent heart disease before it’s too late.
WRITER: RICHARD T. BOSSHARDT, M.D., FACS
HEALTHYMIND
NOURISH
68 FEED YOUR MIND
Unlock your hidden potential by changing your mental diet.
EMOTION
70 MOVING ON FROM UNREQUITED LOVE
Learn to accept rejection and embrace life again.
INNERVENTION
74 LEARNING TO LIVE AGAIN
The journey to relieve the emotional pain of losing a spouse.
WRITER: LORI STRONG
GRIEF
76 PICKING UP THE PIECES
The best way to cope with grief is to face the pain.
MENCOURAGEMENT
78 ROSES, CHOCOLATES, OR CARDS?
Valentine’s Day needs to be every day.
WRITER: RICHARD BURGUET
COMMUNICATION
82 PROS AND CONS OF PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENTS
Before you say, “I do,” you may need a prenup.
WRITERS: THOMAS FROSS AND ROBERT FROSS
REFORM
84 THE HEALTH OF YOUR WEALTH…
Health care changes may affect your finances.
WRITER: THOMAS RUGGIE, CHFC, CFP
A cardiac positron emission tomography (PET) exam helps to evaluate your heart health by measuring the blood flow brought by the coronary arteries to the heart muscles. PET scans are used to identify coronary artery disease and manage your treatment plan.
As one of the oldest private cardiology practices, Cardiovascular Associates of Lake County was first to bring this technology to our area.
We are dedicated to bringing innovations in cardiovascular care to our patients. Since 1992, we have been your partners for life.
KENDRA AKERS publisher/editor-in-chief kendra@akersmediagroup.com
DOUG AKERS vice president doug@akersmediagroup.com
JAMIE EZRA MARK chief creative officer jamie@akersmediagroup.com
A few months back, I had written in my publisher’s letter that we here at Akers are always dedicated to finding the most entertaining and cutting-edge ways to deliver important information to our readers.
This month, we feel we have accomplished just that. As you read the magazine, you will see we have placed a heart healthy gift in here for you. In the spirit of American Heart Month, we worked closely with the American Heart Association and put together a removable 24-page booklet filled with useful information pertaining to heart disease. We are also excited to have the Institute of Cardiovascular Excellence, also known as ICE, sponsoring this booklet.
Heart disease is a silent killer of many men and women. With so many other diseases taking the limelight, this deadly disease often does not receive enough attention. In fact, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and is the reason why most of the pages in this month’s issue focus on awareness. Creating awareness about other diseases is important, but it seems we need to pay more attention to heart disease because it is taking so many lives.
On a positive note, we also share several success stories this month. We write about two local women who actually survived heart attacks. You will read about their journeys back to health and how their lives were changed.
In addition, we have another update from Traci Oliver. Healthy Living has been following Traci’s journey to undergo a complete lifestyle change. Traci bravely agreed to share her process with our readers so she may inspire others to do the same. She has come a long way and will share her big reveal in the Look Good, Feel Good issue coming this April.
As always, we hope you enjoy this month’s issue and accept the heart healthy gift we are offering inside. We would love to hear your feedback and any ideas you would like to share for future issues.
EDITORIAL // DESIGN
TINA MORRISON editorial/community relations director tina@akersmediagroup.com
MARY ANN D ESANTIS editor-at-large maryann@akersmediagroup.com
SHEMIR WILES copy editor/writer shemir@akersmediagroup.com
JAMES COMBS staff writer james@akersmediagroup.com
HEATHER TOOTLE office manager heather@akersmediagroup.com
AUBREY AKERS receptionist contributing writers RICHARD T. BOSSHARDT, MD, FACS
RICHARD BURGUET LORI ESAREY ARNP, CFT
ROBERT FROSS
THOMAS FROSS
FRED HILTON TOM RUGGIE LORI STRONG
STEVEN J. CODRARO associate creative director steve@akersmediagroup.com
JOSH CLARK senior designer/advertising josh@akersmediagroup.com
ANTHONY CASTO senior designer/editorial anthony@akersmediagroup.com
MICHAEL GAULIN production director michael@akersmediagroup.com
FRED LOPEZ chief photographer fred@akersmediagroup.com
MATTHEW GAULIN photography intern contributing photographer TRACI OLIVER
SALES // MARKETING
TIM MCRAE vice president of sales and marketing tim@akersmediagroup.com
MIKE STEGALL senior marketing representative mike@akersmediagroup.com
LORI STRONG marketing representative lori@akersmediagroup.comHEIDI RESSLER marketing representative heidi@akersmediagroup.com
SHAENA CHASTAIN sales assistant shaena@akersmediagroup.comDISTRIBUTION
Live healthy,
LiveSCOTT HEGG distribution manager scott.hegg@akersmediagroup.com
Kendra Akers. Publisher
nds; “Yes, You Can Die from a Broken Heart.” ABC News. abcnews.go.com/blogs/health/2013/02/14/yes-you-can-die-from-a-broken-heart/ (Accessed January 6, 2014)
WRITER: FRED HILTON
Welcome to February. As far as months go, February is pretty much the pits. It’s cold — even in balmy Florida. Nobody, including the dictionaries, can agree on how to pronounce the name of the month. Is it feb-RU-ary, feb-U-ary, or even feb-wery? And there is also the business of not having enough days to be a real month. On the upside, February includes the birthdates of several great Americans. But the real high point of this much-maligned month comes on Feb. 14, St. Valentine’s Day. The day has been associated with romantic love since the Middle Ages, and today it is celebrated with a gazillion gushy Hallmark cards and tons of candy, flowers, and jewelry.
Sadly, however, Valentine’s Day does have its dark side — the broken heart. A broken heart can make you feel incredibly miserable but, frighteningly, it can also be fatal. We have all read about situations where one member of a long-married couple dies and then the other dies for no apparent reason within hours or days.
Although it is rare, the condition has earned its own name from the medical profession: broken-heart syndrome. It is “a name given by doctors who observed that it seemed to especially affect patients who had recently lost a spouse or other family member,” Ron Winslow wrote in The Wall Street Journal. “The mysterious malady mimics heart attacks, but appears to have
little connection with coronary disease. Instead, it is typically triggered by acute emotion or physical trauma that releases a surge of adrenaline that overwhelms the heart. The effect is to freeze much of the left ventricle, the heart’s main pumping chamber, disrupting its ability to contract and effectively pump blood.”
The condition is also known as “stress cardiomyopathy” and “takotsubo.”
Japanese doctors noted the resemblance between a lobster trap called takotsubo and the affected heart’s shape on an X-ray.
Researchers have found that more than 90 percent of those affected by broken-heart syndrome are post-menopausal women. No reason for that has been determined
women more vulnerable,” according to The Wall Street Journal. Some men and younger women have also been diagnosed with the syndrome, complicating the postmenopausal women theory.
So if you absolutely must break up with your significant other on Valentine’s Day, please be gentle. It could be fatal.
FRED HILTON spent 36 years as the chief public relations officer/spokesman for James Madison University in Virginia and 10 years prior as a reporter and editor for The Roanoke Times in Roanoke, Virginia. He is now happily retired in The Villages with his interior designer wife, Leta, their Cadillac Escalade golf cart, and their dog, Paris. (Yes, that makes her Paris Hilton).
““While eating dinner, my front tooth veneer broke off completely. I was mortified; my entire front tooth was missing. The next morning I called Dr. Barr’s office immediately. It was not a scheduled workday for the office, but his assistant, Ashley, was able to come into the office and within an hour, had repaired my veneer perfectly. She is an angel. I have seen Dr. Barr for many years now, and I think he and his staff are simply the best.”
— Tricia Grace
We’re now one month into 2014, a year you vowed to achieve those lofty weight-loss goals. Here are some practical tips to help you stay the course and keep from becoming frustrated or sidetracked.
• Keep a food journal. This is very important because you have to know which foods help you lose weight and which make you gain weight. Be sure to include what, when, how much, and where you ate.
• Make realistic goals. You are probably not going to lose 15 pounds in a week. Instead, set a more realistic goal of losing two pounds a week. This is much more achievable and will not leave you disappointed and likely to quit.
• Exercise. People continue coming up with creative excuses as to why they cannot exercise. However, simply taking a 10-minute walk before work or taking an evening stroll around the neighborhood with a friend are good ways to incorporate exercise into your routine. Remember, exercise does not have to be tortuous.
• Set an end date for your goals and make them realistic. This way, you will begin your weight-loss plan rather than putting it off.
• Clean out your pantry. Replace those Oreo cookies and potato chips with healthier options. Eliminating trigger foods from your home will prove extremely beneficial.
• Lose with a friend. There is certainly nothing wrong with having someone to keep you motivated and hold you accountable. Moreover, a friendly competition will help you stay on track.
Source: parentables.howstuffworks.com/health-wellness/tips-weight-loss-resolutionsactually-work.html
We’re not going to sugarcoat things. Achieving those New Year’s resolutions is a monumental task.
8%
of people are successful in achieving their resolutions
49%
of people enjoy infrequent success
24%
of people fail to keep their resolutions each year.
Source: statisticbrain.com/new-years-resolution-statistics/
Hip fractures from osteoporosis kill more women than breast cancer -- a fact that few people know. With the right treatment, however, osteoporosis is preventable and treatable. Dr. Claudia L. Thomas, a fellowship-trained Orthopaedic surgeon, applies leading-edge research to help patients reduce bone loss and fracture risks. After completing a fellowship in Orthopaedic Trauma and Spine Surgery with the University of Maryland Shock Trauma, Dr. Thomas served as the director of the Fracture Clinic at the renowned Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Her specialties include non-surgical approaches to back pain and prevention of future injuries due to osteoporosis. Relieving your pain is her top priority.
If you are a post-menopausal woman, a man over 50, or had a parent who broke a hip, you may be at higher risk for osteoporosis. Call today for an appointment. EXPERTISE MATTERS.
Winter in Florida is a great time to get outdoors. The cooler weather makes exploring Lake County’s vast nature trails on foot quite delightful. Not only will walking relax and rejuvenate your mind, but it also will help improve your joints and burn calories. Here is a list of venues you will certainly want to explore.
PEAR Park: This 314-acre park features various hiking and nature trails with exercise stations along the way. It is also home to an abundance of wildlife and wildflowers, as well as basketball courts, a butterfly garden, and a large dog park.
4800 University Ave.
Leesburg, FL 34748
352.253.4950
Flat Island Preserve: Hike at this 2,300-acre conservation area located in the Okahumpka Marsh and enjoy old ancient oak trees and unique birding opportunities. Flat Island Preserve features two wooded islands, as well as a 440-foot boardwalk leading to a canoe launch.
2301 Owens Road
Leesburg, FL 34748
352.343.3777
Lake Louisa State Park: Hikers can enjoy more than 20 miles of hiking trails through thick Florida vegetation. Plenty of opportunities are available for wildlife viewing. This is also a popular area for birding.
7305 U.S. 27
Clermont, FL 34714
352.394.3969
Alexander Springs: The park’s nearly mile-long Timucuan Trail takes hikers through diverse habitats. Park visitors can also rent canoes and paddle in the crystal-clear spring.
49525 County Road 445
Altoona, FL 32702
352.669.3522
“Dr. Esarey is very warm, caring and highly skilled. He explains in detail the techniques he uses in treating my foot. He welcomes me to ask any questions or address any concerns I may have. I’m never rushed, and he treats me as if I’m the only patient in the office. Not only is Dr. Esarey outstanding, his team of nurses and front office staff are very responsive and friendly. I don’t believe there’s another practice within 200 miles that offers the level of service they offer to patients.”
-David White
February is National Cancer Prevention Month, and it is a great time to make lifestyle changes to help reduce your risk of cancer. Each year, 7.6 million people die from cancer worldwide, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Consider following these important tips.
• Do not use tobacco.
• Eat a healthy diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, and other foods derived from plant sources.
• Maintain a healthy weight and remain physically active. At a minimum, include 30 minutes of physical activity in your daily routine.
• Protect yourself from the sun, because skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. Wear sunglasses and a broad-brimmed hat. Also, do not forget the sunscreen and avoid tanning beds and sunlamps.
• Receive regular screenings. If cancer is detected early, treatments are more likely to be successful.
Source: mycynergyhealth.com healthful-foods/healthy-tailgating-snacks/
• The American Cancer Society projected that more than 1.66 million people were diagnosed with cancer in 2013.
• Approximately 580,350 Americans were projected to die of cancer in 2013. That translates to 1,600 people each day.
• Cancer is the second-most common cause of death among Americans, accounting for nearly one of every four deaths.
Source: American Cancer Society
A gift from Women for Hospice is benefiting Lake County hospice patients and their families with special services. For the third consecutive year, the volunteer organization presented a $100,000 check to Cornerstone Hospice during the organization’s annual Christmas luncheon in early December.
The all-volunteer group has donated over $2 million
to Cornerstone Hospice since forming more than 20 years ago. The membership, comprised of approximately 250 local residents, collected more than half of the money at The Hope Chest, an upscale resale shop located in downtown Mount Dora. Other fundraisers, including monthly luncheons, provided monies for the remainder of the annual gift.
In December, South Lake Hospital held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new skilled nursing unit.
The new 28,000-square-foot facility is a partnership between South Lake Hospital and Southern Growth Partners. The 30-bed unit will provide inpatient rehabilitation for patients who have undergone orthopedic procedures. Typical stays will be 30 days or less.
The hospital is recognized for its high performance in orthopedics and has seen the demand for related services grow in the community. The new facility, which is scheduled to open in the summer of 2014, will add approximately 45 to 50 jobs in the area.
Source: mycynergyhealth.com/healthful-foods/healthy-tailgating-snacks/
“With its seemingly endless generosity, Women for Hospice helps underwrite programs that allow us to provide care for patients who may not have the funds or insurance to pay. It even helps care for patients’ pets when they are unable to do so,” said Nick Buchholz, executive director of the Cornerstone Hospice Foundation.
The Sunrise Rotary Club of Leesburg will hold its 26th annual bloodscreening event Feb. 22 at the Leesburg Community Building. The cost of the basic blood screening test is $40. For an additional $25, men can also have a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. Blood screening helps identify problems such as anemia, diabetes, liver disease, vascular disease, kidney disease, and other health problems. The tests being offered include cholesterol, triglyceride, glucose, potassium, and others. Funds generated are used for numerous community projects.
For more information, please visit leesburgsunriserotary.org .
Q: What causes Spider Veins?
A: Spider veins (also called telangiectasias) are small superficial blood vessels in the skin. They get their name because their appearance is similar to that of a spider web and are often warning signs of venous disease.
Many factors including heredity, hormones, pregnancy, weight gain, and prolonged standing or sitting contribute to the development and reoccurrence of leg spider veins, which most commonly appear on the inner and outer thighs, calves, back of the knees and the ankle area.
The Vascular Vein Centers’ unique injection sclerotherapy can potentially eliminate the appearance of spider veins by closing down the surface spider veins and the underlying feeder veins
Ali Schultz is no stranger to heart disease.
After undergoing several tests at Florida Hospital Waterman in November 2010, she learned she had 98 percent blockage in four arteries. Ali was airlifted to a hospital in Orlando and underwent openheart surgery.
The surgery took an emotional and physical toll.
“Open-heart surgery is one of the most brutal surgeries a person can experience,” she says. “I had a difficult time coming to grips with why this happened to me. Also, I had always been a very independent woman and hated that I could no longer do the things I wanted to do. And my chest pain from the incision lasted a pretty long time. It took me a full year to get back to normal.”
Now, Ali uses her experience to support and reassure others making the same recovery from a heart procedure. She serves as president of Florida Hospital Waterman’s Mended Hearts
chapter, a national-based organization that offers hope to heart disease patients and their caregivers. The group, which formed in August 2011, meets at the hospital on the second Tuesday of every month at noon.
During each meeting, Ali tells patients they can continue living full, healthy lives postsurgery. “This is a great group because a patient can listen to what others have endured and identify with them,” says Ali, who worked as a registered nurse for 36 years.
“It is important that cardiac patients can communicate with and open up to others who understand what they’ve been through. We also invite their caregivers so they can talk about their difficult roles.”
While patients openly share their triumphs and struggles, the program also includes educational forums. Ali invites guest speakers such as doctors, clergymen, and nutritionists to discuss heart disease and provide physical and emotional coping tips. “Our patients
learn something new at each meeting. The more knowledge they gain, the better they will do in the recovery process.”
Mended Hearts members also visit hospitalized patients who have recently undergone open-heart surgery or stent placement. They talk to the patients about the Mended Hearts program and let them know they’ll have support during the recovery process.
“One of the things I tell my members is they need to stay in the group to help others who are coming in,” she says. “When new members see others who have made full recoveries, it gives them hope. Although our program is small, we are still growing. I know everyone appreciates this program is available.”
HEART DISEASE SUFFERERS CAN OPEN THEIR HEARTS TO OTHERS AND TALK ABOUT THEIR EXPERIENCES.
Valentine’sDayisacelebrationofloveandthe exchangeoftheuniversalsymboloftheemotion— theheart.Onthisday,heartsaregiventoothersin everyimaginableway.Heartsareoncards,balloons, madeoutofflowersandchocolate,drawn,painted, andetched.Theuniversalsymbolcrossesborders andoceans,allthewhilemaintainingitsmeaning. Althoughthesymboloftheheartisnotreflectiveofthe anatomicalheart,it,too,variesinsize,shapeandcolor.
ThesentimentbehindValentine’sDayistoshow otherstheyareloved,appreciatedandadmired.
AsIimaginethedifferencesbetweenhowmen andwomencelebratetheday,moreoftenthannot, womenaretherecipientsoftheseexpressionsof love.Imaynotbeabletoexplainthemotivebehind thesedifferencesbutwillsticktothephysiological differencesintheheartsbehindthegiving.
Bynatureofsize,awoman’sarteriesandvesselsare smallerandtheirheartbeatis8-10beatsfasterthana man’satrestwiththefemalehormone,estrogenbeing themainfactorbehindthesebiologicaldifferences. Womenandmenfacesimilarrisksyettheirdisease processespresentdifferently,andthediagnostics andtreatmenttheyreceiveisspecifictonotjusttheir medicalhistorybuttotheirgender.
Aswepayspecialattentiontothosewelovethis monthonValentine’sDay,especiallythewomen inourlives,letusberemindeditisnotjustthe emotionalheartwecareabout,butthehealthoftheir hearts and bodies that meanthe most.
Yours,
Gender makes a difference
Q: Heart Disease is the No. 1 killer in women. What factors contribute to this?
Whenever you think of cardiovascular disease you think of men as the flawed, but on any given day in the ICE cardiac catheterization labs there are more woman than men. Risk factors are the same in both males and females regarding smoking, hyperlipidemia (too many lipids—or fats —in the blood), diabetes and high blood pressure.
Women face an increased plaque burden, diffuse nature of arterial disease and smaller caliber of the peripheral and coronary
arteries. Additionally, there is more of an atypical presentation in woman than in men, whereas men typically present with angina. Peripheral arterial disease is also atypical in woman and can present as discomfort in the legs or in the heel that is present at rest or during exercise or may not be confined to the muscle.1
Q: Are there disorders that women are more susceptible to? If so, which ones and why?
Microvascaular angina (chest pain caused by the small resistance coronary artery vessels that are
Asad U. Qamar, MD
FACC, FCCP, FSGC, FACP, FSCAI Cardiologist
“Women and men face similar risks yet their disease processes present differently, and the diagnostics and treatment they receive is specific to not just their medical history but to their gender.”
— Dr. Asad Qamar
42.9 million women are currently living with some form of cardiovascular disease (CVD)
not visible in a coronary angiography2) is more common in woman than men. Basically, the small arteries have the inability to dilate themselves and it is atypical angina but in the absence of any significant blockage in coronary arteries. Although incidence of diabetes is the same in women and men, women with diabetes do more poorly with CAD and PAD than men.
More important than symptoms, first of all woman should be aware of the fact that incidence of coronary and vascular disease is similar in woman and in men. Controlling lipids (cholesterol), diabetes, hypertension and smoking is important.
The symptoms to be aware of include shortness of breath on activity, indigestion, any back discomfort with
activity (woman present more commonly with interscapular pain than men), numbness or tingling, and fatigue in the legs upon ambulation. Also, symptoms of palpitations, lightheadedness and dizziness are important for coronary artery disease and vascular disease in women.
We can do comprehensive cardiovascular evaluation focusing on risk factors and appropriate non-invasive imaging for early detection and treatment of coronary and vascular disease.
The onset of heart disease tends to appear in women later in life than males, and this can also be complicated or go undiagnosed due to the fact of other comorbidities that have developed. Women should begin educating themselves early and address the risk factors to help prevent and identify the risks related to cardiovascular disease.
Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner Devin Di Scala knew instantly she wanted to join ICE’s Institute of Medical Excellence (IME). “Everyone was so accommodating and it felt like a family,” says Devin about her first experience with Dr. Qamar and his team. “I have always been drawn to making a difference in people’s lives, and I could tell the providers and team members at ICE felt the same, so it was a perfect fit.“
Devin brings a unique mix of aero-medical trauma and intensive care, internal and family medicine, ICU, and cardio-pulmonary experience to IME. Devin also practices as a registered flight nurse with Orlando Health’s Air Care Team where she implements emergent care to treat life-threatening complications. “I was promoted to a flight nurse within one year of working in the trauma room,” she says. “I was able to extend my critical care knowledge to a job that I truly enjoyed because I am helping people when it most counts.”
Devin’s ability to think quickly on her feet will benefit her patients as she joins IME here on the ground. “I look forward to participating in my patients’ care for many years to come. As a flight nurse, I treat patients in an acute setting. I don’t get a chance to develop the long-term relationships I want,” she says.
Devin sees patients in the Ocala, Summerfield, and The Villages offices five days a week. “I am intrigued by medicine and enjoy sharing my knowledge with my patients to help manage and prevent disease processes. The care I give is individualized and based on a personal connection.”
“I look forward to participating in my patients’ care for many years to come.”
— Devin Di Scala
Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner
There are many risk factors that contribute to leg pain and vein problems in patients today. Family history, a job requiring prolonged periods of standing or sitting, obesity, and more specific to women, pregnancy and the extended use of high heeled shoes are all risk factors for venous insufficiencies. The vein’s inability to return blood to the heart from the legs can become a chronic problem when the veins are blocked or blood is leaking around the valves of the veins. 1
“Women, (and men) should pay attention to symptoms of vein disease such as swelling ankles, swollen feet and/or legs, heaviness, cramping, restless legs, achiness, tired legs, bulging veins, and early vein disease of spider veins,” states P.A. Tom Tran of The Limbstitute.
With 12 years of experience, over 20,000 procedures done on veins, and a current research facility focused on the advancement of vein treatment options, The Limbstitute offers comprehensive vein care to help
Older age • Being female (Hormonal changes from puberty, pregnancy and menopause can lead to varicose veins. Taking birth control pills or hormone replacement can also increase your risk.) • Being born with defective valves • Obesity • Pregnancy • History of blood clots in your legs • Standing or sitting for long periods • Family history of varicose veins
Source: www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001109.htm
patients suffering from symptoms of vein disease. P.A. Tran explains, “Patients are treated from the medical aspect while also addressing the cosmetic component of vein disease. Once treated, symptoms are relieved from the underlying vein problem, the added benefit of cosmetic vein procedures can make the legs look better, too.”
1. www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000203.htm
After completion of surgical training in 1999, Dr. Wright began his general surgery practice in Denison, Iowa. In March 2012, he relocated to Florida and joined Mid-Florida Surgical Associates as the newest surgeon in the group.
Dr. Wright specializes in general surgery with interest in breast malignancies, colon diseases, endoscopy, hernias, and minimally invasive robotic surgeries.
Dr. Wright is board-certified by and serves as a national board examiner for the American Osteopathic Board of Surgery. Additionally, he is a fellow and serves on the government affairs committee of the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons.
Florida Medical
SHEMIR
It is true that part of the secret to a healthy heart is through your stomach. This is especially true for the ladies since heart disease is the No.1 killer of women in the United States, claiming more lives than all forms of cancer combined.
Championing the importance of eating more nutritiously is the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women, a social initiative dedicated to building healthier lives free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.
In an effort to help you stick to your goals of healthy eating in 2014, Go Red for Women teamed up with Healthy Living to serve up some delicious heart-healthy recipes to help in the fight against heart disease.
real,so improve the health of your ticker withthesesimple , wholesomerecipes.WRITER: WILES PHOTOS: PROVIDED BY AMERICAN HEARTASSOCIATION
Ingredients:
1 pound frozen green beans, thawed (French cut is best)
1 10.5-ounce can reduced-fat, low-sodium cream of mushroom soup
½ cup low-fat sour cream
½ teaspoon pepper
1 small onion, cut into thin sticks
Cooking spray
¼ cup whole-wheat flour
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a 9-by-13-inch casserole dish, combine green beans, soup, sour cream, and pepper. Stir until well mixed and bake for 20 minutes.
3. While casserole bakes, spread out onion sticks and lightly spray with cooking spray.
4. Sprinkle flour over onion pieces, tossing to coat equally.
5. Spray a medium-large skillet with cooking spray and heat to medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until crispy, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove casserole from oven, add half of the onions, and stir well.
7. Top with remaining half and return to oven, bake five minutes more.
8
Ingredients:
1 10.5-ounce package chopped frozen spinach
½ cup fat-free yogurt
½ cup reduced-fat sour cream
½ cup fat-free feta cheese crumbles
1 teaspoon garlic, minced from jar
2 teaspoons dried parsley or dill (or 1/3 cup fresh chopped)
½ teaspoon black pepper
6 whole-wheat pitas sliced in quarters
Directions:
1. Cook spinach according to package directions and drain in colander (press with fork to drain completely).
2. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Refrigerate for one hour and serve with pita slices.
Ingredients:
1 pound top round or beef loin roast, visible fat removed, cut into 1.5- to 2-inch cubes
1 onion, chopped
1 cup low-sodium beef broth
½ cup cider vinegar
1 package baby carrots
1 rib celery, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic, minced from jar
2 small potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground ginger
½ teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon whole-wheat flour
Directions:
1. Add beef, onion, broth, vinegar, celery, garlic, carrots, and potatoes to slow cooker.
2. Cover and cook over low setting for 8–10 hours, or over high setting for 3–4 hours.
3. Add brown sugar, ginger, nutmeg, and flour to cooker, stir and turn to high heat. Cook for 30 minutes more.
Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association’s “Simple Cooking with Heart”
4 servings, about $2.97 per serving
Ingredients:
3 cups cantaloupe (about ½ cantaloupe), roughly diced
1 small cucumber, roughly diced
½ cup non-fat, plain Greek yogurt
½ teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or ¼ teaspoon ground ginger)
2 tablespoons fresh basil, roughly chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
2 teaspoons fresh mint, roughly chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
1 small fresh jalapeno pepper, roughly chopped
2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
¼ teaspoon champagne vinegar or white wine vinegar
1 pinch cayenne pepper
Directions:
1. Combine all ingredients in food processor. Puree until very smooth (about 2–3 minutes).
2. Chill for 30 minutes and serve cold.
Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association’s “Simple Cooking with Heart” 5 servings, about $1.85 per serving
0.0g transfat 0.5g polyunsaturated fat 1.5g monounsaturated fat0mg cholesterol
COOKING TIP: This soup is best when made fresh and eaten in the same day!
“Simple Cooking with Heart”
4 servings, about $3.81 per serving
BAKED CAJUN CATFISH
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon pepper
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (more or less, depending on desired spiciness)
1 ½ teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon thyme
4 catfish fillets (you can substitute any white fish, such as tilapia or trout)
Nonstick cooking spray
COLLARD GREENS
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
½ small onion, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon minced garlic from the jar
½ teaspoon sugar
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (add more if you like spicier food)
1 large bunch collard greens
2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
1 slice of Canadian bacon, cooked in microwave and diced into small bits
Directions for catfish:
1. In a shallow bowl, combine oil, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, cayenne, paprika, and thyme.
2. Prepare a 9-by13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
3. Coat fish fillets in seasoning mixture and place in baking dish, pour any remaining seasoning mixture over the fish.
4. Bake at 425 degrees for 15 minutes, until fish flakes with a fork.
1. Wash the greens and blot lightly with paper towel.
2. Remove stems from larger leaves by stripping the leaf off from either side of the stem (it is okay to leave the stems on the tender inner leaves).
3. Stack eight leaves together, roll up, and slice into 1-inch sections.
4. In a large skillet, heat oil on medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent (three minutes, stirring occasionally).
5. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
6. Add, sugar, red pepper, greens, vinegar, water, and Canadian bacon.
7. Cover and cook until tender (20 minutes).
NUTRITIONAL FACTS:
Per serving
218 calories
11.0g total fat
1.5g saturated fat
0.0g transfat
3.0g polyunsaturated fat
5.5g monounsaturated fat
69mg cholesterol
235mg sodium
7g carbohydrates
4g dietary fiber
1g added sugars
22g protein
602mg potassium
120mg calcium
Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association’s “Simple Cooking with Heart”
6 servings, about $2.09 per serving
JERK PORK
1 small white onion, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon thyme
½ teaspoon allspice
½ teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon cloves
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (use
½ if you don’t like spicy foods)
1.25 pound pork loin or roast, visible fat removed
2 cups fat-free, low sodium beef stock
MANGO SAUCE
1 large mango, diced
1 tablespoon honey or agave nectar
2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
Juice of half a lime
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (or 1 teaspoon dry)
well. Rub spice mixture over pork.
2. Pour beef stock in slow cooker, gently add pork and onions.
3. Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours.
4. Mix ingredients for mango sauce in a small bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.
5. Use whole-wheat sandwich buns, corn tortillas (made without any type of hydrogenated fat or tropical oils, such as palm or coconut oil), or whole-wheat pitas to make sandwiches or tacos. Add pork and top with mango sauce.
6. Dress to taste with sliced lettuce, cabbage, tomato, etc.
53mg cholesterol
252mg sodium
32g carbohydrates
4g dietary fiber
3g added sugars
24g protein
529mg potassium
34mg calcium
Ingredients:
2 cucumbers, seeded and small diced
4 medium tomatoes, small diced
1 medium red onion, small diced
2 tablespoons fat-free feta cheese crumbles
1 tablespoon dried mint or parsley (or ¼ cup chopped fresh)
NUTRITIONAL FACTS:
Per serving
88 calories
4.0g total fat
0.5g saturated fat
0.0g transfat
0.5g polyunsaturated fat
2.5g monounsaturated fat
0mg cholesterol
86mg sodium
13g carbohydrates
3g fiber
0g sugars
3g protein
516mg potassium
2 limes, juiced
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
1. Mix cucumber, tomatoes, onion, feta, and herbs in a bowl and refrigerate for 20 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, combine lime juice, oil, and pepper — whisk well.
3. Pour over vegetable mixture and serve.
Ingredients:
PEANUT DRESSING
2 tablespoons natural no-salt added peanut butter
2 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar
2 to 3 tablespoons water
THAI CHICKEN AND BROCCOLI SALAD
1 (12-ounce) frozen package broccoli florets (or 2 cups chopped fresh broccoli)
2 cups shredded chicken (from skinless breast meat of a rotisserie chicken) (or 2 (10-ounce) cans salt-free white meat chicken, drained)
1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added sweet peas, drained
1 (11-ounce) can mandarin orange slices in own juices, drained and rinsed
¼ cup chopped white, yellow, or green onion
Directions:
1. Add broccoli, chicken, peas, mandarin orange slices, and chopped onion into a large bowl.
NUTRITIONAL FACTS:
Per serving
268 calories
8.0g total fat
2.0g saturated fat
0.0g transfat
1.5g polyunsaturated fat
3.5g monounsaturated fat
70mg cholesterol
347mg sodium
23g carbohydrates
7g dietary fiber
13g total sugars
27g protein
Some peanut butter brands are thicker than others so more water may be needed to thin out the dressing.
If using fresh broccoli, also chop up the broccoli stems. It tastes good and is full of vitamins.
2. In a separate bowl, add peanut butter, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Add enough water to make the dressing thinner, about two to three tablespoons of water. Use a fork or a whisk to combine dressing.
3. Add dressing to salad, tossing to combine.
The Advanced Prostate Cancer Institute is dedicated solely to treating prostate cancer. The center is designed for patient comfort and convenience with innovative technology and the highest standards of quality.
There are many ways prostate cancer may be treated. Our team of board-certified urologists, pathologists and radiation oncologists personalizes treatment based on each patient’s unique needs.
Adjacent to The Villages, the Advanced Prostate Cancer Institute offers a variety of techniques and treatments including:
• RapidArc IMRT with IGRT Utilizing ConeBeam CT
• Hormone Therapy
• Watchful Waiting
• Minimally Invasive Surgery using the da Vinci Surgical System (performed by our urology team at local hospitals)
Together, our clinical team is dedicated to finding the best prostate cancer treatment option for you.
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Susie Burrow Nichols was suddenly jolted awake one morning in October 2005 due to shortness of breath, pain radiating down both arms, and tingling teeth. She sought medical help and ultimately underwent tests inside the heart catheterization lab at Leesburg Regional Medical Center. A grim discovery was made.
The 27-year-old had suffered a major heart attack and required quadruple bypass surgery.
Although she had experienced symptoms for nearly 16 months, the diagnosis was shocking. After all, she had previously been diagnosed with a less severe problem. Plus, she had always been an active woman who maintained a healthy weight. And like many people, she visualized a heart attack as an elderly man clutching his chest and dropping to the ground.
“I could not believe that someone my age could actually be having a heart attack,” she says. “Although my dad’s parents died of heart-related issues, I never imagined I would be dealing with heart problems at such a young age.”
Today, Susie is 35 and resides in Eustis with her husband, Ray, and 6-year-old adopted son, Tyler. She speaks straight from her heart when urging other women to take cardiovascular disease seriously.
When it comes to females and cardiovascular disease, society needs a change of heart.
“Nobody should assume that their age or gender makes them immune to heart disease,” she says. “The only risk factor I had was a family history of heart disease. I did not smoke, I was never obese, and I never battled high cholesterol. If heart disease can happen to me, it can happen to anyone.”
Unfortunately, that message oftentimes falls on deaf ears. Simply put, many women do not consider heart disease to be a major problem. That was apparent in a 2003 study of 1,000 women conducted by the American Heart Association (AHA). Only 13 percent believed their greatest health threat was heart disease or stroke.
However, statistics provide a glaring gap between perception and reality. Heart disease is the leading killer of women and is more deadly than all forms of cancer combined. According to the American Heart Association, 1 in every 3 American women dies from heart disease or stroke. In comparison, only 1 in 31 American women dies from breast cancer each year.
To compound problems, it appears that women and men do not receive equal treatment when it comes to heart disease because some doctors may not take a woman’s complaints seriously. This was evidenced by research conducted by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, which concluded that women with heart problems are not diagnosed or treated as aggressively as men are.
“In quite a few cases, women with coronary artery disease may have no chest pain whatsoever and therefore they are misdiagnosed because doctors commonly associate heart attacks with crushing chest pain,” says Dr. Joseph Sahab, a cardiologist with Leesburg-based Florida Heart and Vascular Multi-Specialty Group. “Another problem is that women are more prone to experience chest pain not related to the heart. So when a woman with cardiovascular disease goes to a doctor’s office and complains of chest pain, doctors may assume it is something else.”
According to the National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease, women “only receive 33 percent of angioplasties, stents and bypass surgeries; 28 percent of implantable defibrillators; and 36 percent of open-heart surgeries.” In addition, females comprise only 24 percent of participants in all heart-related studies. These statistics could possibly explain why more women than men have died of heart disease each year since 1984.
Despite the prevailing attitude that heart disease is a man’s disease, heart attack victims like Susie understand that it is an equal opportunity killer. That’s why she remains frustrated about being misdiagnosed after experiencing her first symptoms during a hiking trip to Washington and Oregon in June 2004.
”I was going up a mountain and my chest starting feeling uncomfortable. At one point I sat on a bench to rest. My blood flow was already lacking.”
After returning from vacation, Susie resumed her
Dr. Joseph Sahab, a local cardiologist, answered common questions pertaining to women and cardiovascular disease.
Q: What are the risk factors for women developing cardiovascular disease?
A: They are essentially the same for women as for men— smoking, high blood pressure, cholesterol, obesity, and a family history of heart disease.
Q: What ages are women at greatest risk for heart disease?
A: After menopause, a woman’s risk is the same as a man’s risk because their estrogen levels are now lower. Estrogen helps prevent plaque formation.
Q: What specific symptoms do women experience prior to an actual heart attack?
A: One week before the heart attack, they may feel shortness of breath, fatigue, insomnia, dizziness, and indigestion. They may also have cold sweats and cold, clammy skin.
Q: Why do female heart attack victims typically suffer worse outcomes than their male counterparts?
A: I cannot say for certain, but one explanation is that women have smaller coronary arteries than men. Because of the smaller coronary arteries, a woman’s body may not develop natural bypasses around the blockage.
Q: How does hormone replacement therapy affect a woman’s heart?
A: Recent studies have showed that it does not reduce the incidence of cardiovascular disease or increase the risk.
Although Susie was unable to give natural birth following her heart attack, she and her husband, Ray, adopted a beautiful baby boy in July 2007. They named him Tyler. “There is nothing like being a mom,” she says. “I cannot even remember what life was like before we had Tyler. He is such a joy to be around. One good thing about adopting Tyler is that I did not pass on my bad genes to him and I don’t have to worry about him going through everything I did.”
daily walks. One morning, however, she failed to make it past the neighbor’s driveway because the uncomfortable feeling she experienced on vacation returned. “I had discomfort in my chest and I was short of breath,” she says. “I turned around and went back inside my house. At that point I knew I needed to see a doctor.”
Susie was examined by a family doctor and diagnosed with costochondritis, an inflammation of the chest wall that causes chest pain. For the next 16 months, she made monthly visits to her doctor to monitor the condition. Her symptoms worsened during this time. She began having increased chest pain, felt achy in both arms, gained weight due to water retention, struggled to fight off sinus infections, and experienced debilitating shortness of breath.
“For two weeks I would wake up with chest pain and shortness of breath. I would sit on the edge of the bed so I could calm myself down and recuperate.”
Still, her family doctor stuck to the original diagnosis. It wasn’t until she called him one morning complaining of “tingling teeth” and an “elephant on my chest” that he admitted her to the hospital. By then, she had already suffered a heart attack.
To this day, Susie wonders whether things could have turned out differently had she been accurately diagnosed. Even though stents would have been ineffective due to the location of her blockages, a proper diagnosis could have allowed her to undergo bypass surgery before suffering a heart attack.
“There’s always the possibility that they could’ve prevented the heart attack with medication,” she says. “Heart attacks are bad because they leave behind damage to your heart. Fortunately, my quality of life has not been diminished, and I’m grateful for that. Still, I went through a phase where I was very angry about being misdiagnosed. I feel that way
not just for myself, but for all women who are misdiagnosed.”
While she could not change the past, Susie moved forward in her life by implementing important lifestyle changes. She walks for an hour three times a week and eliminated red meat, sugar, and processed food from her diet. She strongly encourages other women to take their cardiovascular health to heart.
“You know your body better than anyone. If something does not feel right and you are unsure what is going on, do not stop until you receive answers. I also tell women that they should receive regular screening. Women spend so much time taking care of others. We need to remember to take care of ourselves.”
For women, suffering a heart attack can pack an emotional punch. That was certainly the case for Kim Bitting, a resident of Leesburg who had a heart attack in September 2006 at age 38. She felt like a shell of her former self and dealt with depression for an entire year.
“It was very hard on me emotionally. I was a wife and mother and for a while, could not take care of the people I loved the way I used to. I was afraid to do much because I thought any activity might trigger another heart attack. To make matters worse, I did not know anyone my age who had suffered a heart attack, so I really did not know where to turn. That was very difficult because having support from people who understand what you’re going through is vitally important.”
• Heart disease kills approximately one woman every minute.
• An estimated 43 million women in the United States are affected by heart disease.
• Ninety percent of women have one or more risk factors for developing heart disease.
• Forty-two percent of women who have heart attacks die within one year, compared to 24 percent of men.
• Under age 50, women’s heart attacks are twice as likely as men’s to be fatal.
struggle with substance abuse and other emotional issues.
“We all experience trials and struggles in life, but the message I convey to these women is there’s always hope. I’m living proof of that. Volunteering there fills my heart with joy and is so beneficial to my health.”
Kim has also made important lifestyle choices to help prevent another heart attack. A cigarette smoker since age 13, she successfully kicked the habit five years ago. She also eats a heart-healthy diet, including vegetables, fruit, and organic food. As far as exercise, Kim purchased an elliptical machine and uses it several times each week.
“It is normal to be depressed following a heart attack,” she says. “However, it is important that you do not allow it to overtake your life while you are still living. Nobody knows when our next breath will be our last, so I encourage women who suffer heart attacks to continue living life to the fullest.”
While the first year after her heart attack was an emotional rollercoaster for Kim, things started looking up when she took a leap of faith.
“I started praying and attending church more often. I formed a closer relationship with God. I knew Him, but never like this. I realized that I survived and God gave me an opportunity to be a light for other people who are struggling.”
Kim seized that opportunity by becoming a volunteer at the Women’s Care Center, a ministry of First Baptist Church of Leesburg. For three days a week, she works with women who
And like Susie, she cautions all women to take heart disease seriously.
“Prior to my heart attack
I felt fatigued and had high blood pressure for a year, but my doctor said there was no way I had heart disease,” she says. “Society doesn’t push the heart disease button like they do with other diseases such as breast cancer. If something does not feel right with your body, please visit a medical professional and undergo necessary tests to rule out heart problems. It can be a potentially lifechanging decision.” ❤
LENA IS 68 YEARS OLD. HER PROBLEM STARTED OUT SIMPLE ENOUGH. SHE STRAINED A MUSCLE IN HER BACK WHILE CLEARING WEEDS FROM HER SMALL FLOWER GARDEN. ON THE FIRST VISIT TO HER DOCTOR HE PRESCRIBED THE PAINKILLER VICODIN. SHE WAS HOOKED IMMEDIATELY. NOT ONLY DID THE OPIOID PAINKILLER TAKE AWAY THE PAIN IN HER BACK, IT TOOK AWAY ALL THE ACHES AND PAINS THAT HAD CREPT UP ON HER WITH AGE. SHE FELT “FABULOUS” BUT SOON FOUND THAT SHE NEEDED TO TAKE MORE PILLS EACH DAY TO KEEP THAT “GREAT FEELING.”
WRITER: JIM GIBSON
A few months later, Lena told her physician she was feeling a little low and he prescribed Xanax. The list of drugs soon became longer and longer. Soon, Lena was on more high-powered painkillers, antidepressants, and stimulants than most junkies on the street. Her insurance covered most of the cost, so she could easily afford her “habit.” At one point, things became so bad that she simply dumped the pills hodgepodge into a large mixing bowl, taking a handful of whatever she happened to reach in and grab whenever she felt the need.
Lena is lucky. A relative came to visit her and immediately recognized her problem. Lena was literally at the point of death. Following a long, grueling stint in rehab, she is now drug-free and finds it hard to believe she could ever have gotten caught up in the web of prescription drug addiction.
OPIOIDS INCLUDE:
Fentanyl (Duragesic)
Hydrocodone (Vicodin)
Oxycodone (OxyContin)
Oxymorphone (Opana)
Propoxyphene (Darvon)
Hydromorphone (Dilaudid)
Meperidine (Demerol)
Diphenoxylate (Lomotil)
CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM DEPRESSANTS INCLUDE:
Pentobarbital sodium (Nembutal)
Diazepam (Valium)
Alprazolam (Xanax)
STIMULANTS INCLUDE:
Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine)
Methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta)
Amphetamines (Adderall)
SOURCE: http://www.drugabuse.gov/drugs-abuse/prescription-drugs
We hear stories on the evening news about the epidemic abuse of illicit drugs in our nation. We hear the names of the ones peddled on street corners and in dark alleys: crack, meth, Ecstasy, marijuana — but what about the list of the most abused drugs in the nation: Vicodin, OxyContin, Xanax, Soma, fentanyl, Valium, Adderall, Ritalin?
These aren’t illicit drugs when taken as prescribed. In fact, the odds are that some of these are the same prescriptions you have filled after visiting your primary care physician. However, they have also become big business on the street and they are increasingly being abused by hardworking Americans who are anything but addicts — for now.
These drugs aren’t grown in “grow houses” or “cooked” in makeshift homemade labs; they are sold legally, and, in many cases, used legally by the person to whom they are prescribed.
But law enforcement and health care facilities are beginning to see the dark side of prescription drug (ab)use in America; they are seeing more than 40,000 deaths each year due to prescription drug overdose. And that number is on the increase. Research shows that anywhere from 7-10 million people presently abuse prescription drugs in the U.S., and some are just adolescents.
More than 70 percent of Americans take one prescription drug each day, more than 50 percent take two, and more than 20 percent take five prescription drugs… or more. With prescription drug use this prevalent and with the advent of new types of painkillers, stimulants, and antidepressants introduced onto the market almost daily, it has created the perfect storm for a prescription drug overdose epidemic.
What constitutes abuse?
• Taking more of a prescription drug than is advised by your physician or in a manner that is not consistent with his or her instructions, such as crushing a pill to “snort” the powder inside.
• Taking a drug for any other purpose than which it is prescribed, such as the ADHD drug Ritalin to lose weight.
• Taking a drug that is not prescribed specifically for you by a physician.
The most commonly prescribed abused prescription drugs in the nation are antibiotics, antidepressants, painkiller opioids, stimulants, and sedatives.
Although antibiotics are rarely involved in drug overdoses, their overuse is seen by many health officials as more dangerous than those of controlled medications. The frequent overprescribing of antibiotics is leading to the mutation of bacteria that were once easily curable into “super bugs” that cannot be contained and could soon cause major epidemics worldwide. The Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention (CDC) estimate that super bugs make hundreds of thousands of Americans seriously ill each year and kill tens of thousands of those infected — and those numbers are on the rise.
America is affected not only by use of antibiotics here but by their use around the world. DirectorGeneral of the World Health Organization Dr. Margaret Chan, speaking to European Union leaders at the Conference on Combating Antimicrobial Resistance, warned that something as relatively simple as a scratched knee could very easily once again become a fatal event to a person living in any country in the world, including the U.S.
Dr. Chan stated that international travel has greatly exacerbated the problem by exponentially increasing the spread of hospital-acquired infections that are highly resistant to first line antibiotics — and this trend is expected to increase.
Researchers are asking physicians to severely curb their use of antibiotics in order to head off what could possibly be a worldwide problem within a decade.
A recent study showed that antidepressants prescribed by non-psychiatrist physicians to treat medical disorders without a documented psychiatric diagnosis increased from 59.5 to 72.7 percent from 1996 to 2007. In 2007, more than 6 percent of all non-psychiatrist physician visits resulted in a prescription for an antidepressant.
Researchers are concerned that both patients and physicians are using psychiatric medications to treat social problems and the general stresses of daily life, instead of the serious concerns of chronic and debilitating depression.
Dr. Isaac Deas, a licensed mental health counselor and owner of Deas Consulting LLC in Tavares, agrees. “Doctors can easily misdiagnose adults and children and end up prescribing them an antidepressant they don’t need. Then if a par-
• When safe, use clinically proven natural antibiotics such as organic food and natural supplements.
• Research medications before taking them.
• Question the necessity of medications such as antidepressants or stimulants.
• Use prescription drugs only as directed and dispose of unused medication.
• Ask for non-narcotic, non-addictive painkillers if you have to use them. If you find they aren’t controlling your pain, ask to be referred to a pain specialist.
When it comes to dangerous, painkiller opioids top the list. They are highly addictive, not only to those who medically require them, but also to those who use them as recreational drugs.
ticular medication does not work, the doctor may prescribe a different one. It becomes trial and error,” he says. “The thing is these patients are not returning or throwing away the medication that originally did not work. And once they become hooked, it becomes a no-holds-barred reaction. They will likely engage in criminal activity or do whatever is necessary to obtain this medication.”
Researchers believe the solution to overprescribing antidepressants could lie in training both the public and non-psychiatrist physicians regarding the proper use of these medications.
Most antidepressants are serotonin-specific reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which basically work by supplying more of the neurotransmitter serotonin to certain areas of the brain. This does not cause the user to get “high,” instead it gradually causes a change in mood and behavior over time.
SSRIs have been linked to increased suicidal tendencies in persons less than 25 years of age, but some research shows that for adults over age 25 the suicide rate has actually dropped, especially for women. SSRIs can be fatal in very large doses, but such deaths are relatively rare.
Presently more than three out of four prescription drug overdose deaths are from painkillers and one-half of those deaths involve at least one other drug… and many times that drug is alcohol. Both are central nervous system depressants, which slow breathing. When taken together, their overall potency is vastly increased and the person goes into respiratory arrest.
According to a recent report by the CDC, although men are still more likely to die from prescription painkiller overdoses, deaths among women have increased fivefold in the last 10 years. That is four times more than the number of overdose deaths from heroin and cocaine combined.
What makes the numbers for women even more disturbing is the fact the overwhelming majority of deaths came about through the combined use of painkillers and sedatives. The CDC says this is solid evidence that prescription drug monitoring programs are not working as well as they should.
CDC researchers also say physicians are prescribing painkillers more readily for patients who may not need them and states such as Washington have taken legislative steps to curb such practices. Recent legislation there requires physicians to refer patients who
SINCE 2009,
IN THE U.S. EACH YEAR
have been on painkillers for extended periods of time with no evident signs of relief to pain specialists for further evaluation.
Stimulants are amphetamines primarily used to treat ADHD. They increase the levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is associated with the feeling of pleasure, movement, and awareness or attention. When the drugs are used according to a physician’s directions they increase dopamine levels in the brain gradually and help children and young adults overcome the symptoms of ADHD.
However, this class of drugs can easily be abused. When the pills are crushed and snorted or injected, they cause a drastic rise in dopamine levels and create a euphoric stimulant high.
This high is addictive. Once stimulant use becomes chronic, more of each drug is needed to attain the level of euphoria, and an endless cycle is born. When the person abusing the drug cannot attain adequate levels to maintain their high, they suffer symptoms of withdrawal.
According to Dr. Deas, stimulant use is on the rise among today’s youth. “Unfortunately, they use it for the effect of becoming high instead of what the medication is actually prescribed for. Stimulants become very dangerous when mixed with marijuana, pain medication, and alcohol. What I’m seeing is children ages 12 to 18 who are stealing stimulants from their parents or grandparents, taking them to school, and selling them. They can get anywhere from $5 to $18 just for one pill.”
Stimulants can cause heart arrhythmias, heart failure, high blood pressure, seizures, stroke, dangerously high body temperatures and psychosis that may lead to aggressive behavior. Some research is beginning to show that chronic stimulant abuse may cause permanent and irreparable damage to synaptic nerve endings in the brain, causing the abuser to have lifelong adverse neurological problems even after no longer taking the drugs.
Sedatives have two main classes: barbiturates and benzodiazepines. They are used to treat anxiety, stress, panic attacks, and disrupted sleep patterns. Sedatives are widely prescribed by primary care physicians and almost 2 million Americans abuse sedatives and tranquilizers each year.
They are central nervous system depressants and when combined with painkillers or alcohol, can cause respiratory failure and death. The vast majority of prescription drug overdose deaths come from the mixing of painkillers and sedatives.
If an abuser cannot find a source of sedatives, he or she will go through a severe and life-threatening withdrawal syndrome. Detoxification should take place in a highly trained, medically based rehab facility under close physician supervision.
Where does change begin? Do we enact stricter laws that include an increased focus on the physicians who are writing the prescriptions of controlled medications and the pharmacists who are indiscriminately filling the prescriptions? Do we seek stricter enforcement of the laws that are already in place? What role do the major pharmaceutical companies play and should they be held responsible for the overprescribing and overuse of the drugs they produce? Do we go all the way back to the medical schools and seek out the possible source of the problem that might include what tomorrow’s doctors are being taught concerning the prescribing of medications?
And what portion of the burden for drug management should fall to the government? As of March, 44 states have initiated programs to track the abuse of prescription medications. These programs were initially created for legal purposes but now are being utilized by health care professionals to help police their own policies of prescribing certain types of controlled medications.
So far, research has shown that although the programs show promise, there is much work to be done. Communication between states is poor and there is no real standardized method of reporting. If these problems can be solved and all states become involved, then possibly a union between the judiciary, law enforcement, and health care professionals can bring some relief to the problem.
So what is the answer to the overuse of prescription drugs in America? The CDC is pressing for standardized prescription drug monitoring programs; patient review and restriction programs; health care provider accountability; increased legislation prohibiting prescription drug abuse and diverting prescription drugs to those who they aren’t prescribed for; and better access to substance abuse programs.
Physicians should monitor patients for abuse and mental health issues and discuss treatment options that don’t include “at risk” prescription drugs.
2010, 5,500 PEOPLE EACH DAY USED PAINKILLERS AS A RECREATIONAL DRUG FOR THE FIRST TIME
• Conservative, bone sparing technique
• Does not sacrifice any ligaments
• 20+ years of successful patient outcomes
• Restores your knee to a more natural state
ACL and PCL critical for knee stability
Unlike most knee implants, the ACL and PCL are not sacrificed with the TKO
Total knee replacement is intended for individuals with degenerative, rheumatoid and post-traumatic arthritis of the knee. Knee replacement surgery is contraindicated for patients with certain types of infections, some mental or neuromuscular disorders, compromised bone stock, skeletal immaturity, severe instability of the knee, or excessive body weight.
As with any surgery, knee replacement surgery has certain risks. Speak to your surgeon to decide if knee replacement surgery s appropriate for you. Individual results vary and not all patients will return to the same activity level.
Dr. Vrej Kristapor Manoogian is offering the most advanced treatments available for hip, knee, and shoulder problems.
Dr. Manoogian is the inventor of the “Living Hip” total hip replacement. This is the most bone-conserving total hip available and has the ability to maintain bone integrity throughout the entirety of a patient’s life.
With regards to shoulders, Dr. Manoogian performs arthroscopic rotator cuff repairs through incisions only millimeters in length. He also performs a multitude of other completely arthroscopic shoulder treatments, open procedures, and, when necessary, total shoulder replacement arthroplasty.
When it comes to knees, Dr. Manoogian offers the TKO implant, a complete ligament-sparing total or partial knee replacement. He offers other surgical knee replacement procedures, as well. Rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach, he carefully examines the ligament and functional status of the patient’s knees to see which option would best suit the individual patient.
Dr. Manoogian’s treatment philosophy has been and always will be to proceed with the most conservative treatments available to restore function to normal or as normal as possible.
What a difference a year makes. By defying the odds and meeting challenges head on, Traci Oliver has lost an amazing 90 pounds since embarking on a monumental lifestyle change in January 2013. While she needs to lose another 47 pounds to reach her target weight, she realizes numbers are not the true measure of success.
I enjoy the simple things, such as walking down a grocery store aisle and not having people stare at me or move out of the way so I can get by. In the past year I have done so many things that I never thought would be possible. I love being in situations where I no longer have to worry about being embarrassed or fear the possibility of something bad happening. This past year has been very liberating for me.”
After meeting Dr. Todd Ginestra at Mesos Plastic Surgery and Laser Center, I decide that May is a good time to have my surgery to remove excess skin from my chest and arms. Having the procedure in May will allow me time to recover before returning to school as a teacher. Some people question me about this because the procedures will leave behind scars. For me, those scars will be a reminder of where I’ve been and where I never want to be again.
I attend a Christmas party with fellow schoolteachers. The dish I bring is a veggie tray shaped like a Christmas tree. I also bring hummus vegetable dip.
My daughter, Bailey, holds a Christmas party for her friends at my house. I order 10 large pizzas. While standing in the kitchen by myself, I eat one slice of cheese pizzaandsuddenlywant more.Forme,pizzaisa realtriggerfood.Ibegin eatingasecondsliceand thenimmediatelythrow itaway,realizingthatI amonebiteawayfrom adifferentdestiny. Before long, my stomach starts hurting and I have no energy. My feet begin swelling. After the party I realize there are tons of leftover food. I stuff the food in garbage bags knowing that I would never eat anything from the trash.
Today marks the one-year anniversary of my incredible journey. I send out a text message to a friend I met while trying out for “The Biggest Loser.” She is struggling with her weight. I enjoy using my experience to help and encourage others.
Here is what I write: “2013 showed me that I CAN… 2014 will show me that I DID. This past year has been emotionally healing through the almost 100 pound weight loss. It has been slow at times and sometimes it just plain stopped. But in those moments, I realize the second chance in life I have been given and realize it’s NOT about a number always, but the quality of life I am now able to live while enjoying the latter part of my kids’ lives before they leave our nest. I have learned to enjoy ALL times; not just the good, but truly learning and loving with the bad times. Once you set the habits, your family comes along for the ride… accountability at its best. You’re going to do great!”
“Thisjourneyisnotaboutanyonenumber;itis aboutbeingmentallyandphysicallyhealthier.
It is New Year’s Day and I’m at the gym. My trainer makes a video of me flipping tires. She then has me jumping up on those same tires to improve my core strength.
My family and I are in New York City. Today, the girls want to ice skate and they have a look of surprise when I join them. When I was obese, I would always skip out on activities like this and instead take pictures. I did fall today and automatically assumed people would say, ‘Look at that big woman.’ However, that negative thought quickly fades upon realizing my health has changed so drastically that I easily withstand the fall and get right back up. It is also a great feeling to never worry about becoming winded.
My family and I are sitting in first class on the flight from New York City to Orlando. While the other passengers in first class are enjoying a chicken pasta dinner, I order a vegetable and fruit tray
WHILE IT’S STILL CHILLY OUTSIDE GET A HEAD START ON BUILDING TONED ARMS FOR TANKTOP SEASON.
The perfect time to begin toning your arms for the summer is now! The muscles will show only after the fat layer is leaned out with cardiovascular training and a low-fat diet with plenty of fresh fruits and veggies. “Spot reducing” is a myth so start lowering your body fat and boosting your muscle mass now with these exercises.
1. Sit on bench, chair, or stability ball.
2. Hold a weight in one hand, using the same thigh to stabilize your elbow and isolate the bicep.
3. Exhale and lift slowly; inhale and return to start position.
4. Perform 8–12 reps for three sets for pretty biceps.
5.
• Ladies: You will not look like a body builder by doing these as directed, so have no fear!
• Keep your back flat and bend from the hips to protect the lower back.
• Flex the muscle you are working the entire time for maximum results.
MUSCLE GROUPS TARGETED: biceps
The biceps of an average guy are roughly one pound of muscle. (Female biceps are a little less than half.) Combining both arms, this is only equivalent to about 3 percent of the total muscle mass in the entire body. Only devote about 3 percent of your total body workout to the biceps and you will be good to go.
Source: http://EzineArticles. com/5178280
Did you realize that a mom (or dad) works the bicep every time the child is held on a hip? Be sure to trade hips so both arms can be worked evenly. Do you have an empty milk jug around the house? Fill it with water and use it as a dumbbell; it will weigh eight pounds when full. Look around and you will be surprised at the set of weights you already have in your home. Cans of vegetables, heavy books — what else can you find to pick up?
First position
1. Stand facing tower with elbows at sides and bent at 90-degree angle.
2. Exhale, tighten abs, and press hands down past the hips with wrists straight.
3. Contract triceps and pause at the bottom of the extension; return to start position.
4. Repeat for 12–15 repetitions for three sets for toned triceps.
• If you cannot maintain proper form and alignment, lower the weight.
It is important to start and finish each repetition with elbows in by the sides and at a precise 90-degree angle for maximum benefit. If you pause between each one you will find the results to be even better!
• Challenge: Stand on one foot and do this exercise!
• The slower and harder, the better
MUSCLE GROUPS TARGETED: triceps Final position
Start position
1. With fingers pointed forward and heels on a raised surface, bend hips at 90-degree angle.
2. Inhale and lower your body by bending the elbows to no less than a right angle.
3. Exhale and extend arms until almost straight.
4. Repeat for 8–12 reps for three sets.
MUSCLE GROUPS TARGETED: triceps
Final position
• Too challenging? Bend the knees a bit.
• Too easy? Do as many as 18 and go slower.
The triceps area is a normal place for fat storage in women. Be sure to eat low-fat foods to help decrease body fat and incorporate cardio training to help burn any extra fluff. Add these exercises to a weekly workout routine and see how the toning will pay off.
You have read several articles over the years about heart healthy foods and probably still feel a bit confused by all the mixed information. Don’t be discouraged — even the experts find it difficult to keep up. The discovery that inflammation in the artery wall is the real cause of heart disease is slowly leading to a paradigm shift in how heart disease and other chronic ailments will be treated. Therefore, any attempt to eat smart should focus on lowering this inflammation.
In an attempt to get you up to speed on the most recent research, I have decided to use the acronym B-E-H-A-V-E to help you understand some simple and important facts that will help you improve your risk factors for heart disease.
Be aware of sugar. Sugar in your diet increases blood sugar beyond what the cells need, causing sugar levels in the blood to rise. The pancreas then produces more insulin and the glucose converts to stored fat. Therefore, anything that turns into sugar should be minimized. Read your food labels and watch out for anything labeled low-fat because this usually means high sugar. Additionally, although fruit has nutrient value, it is sugar, so limit your intake to two servings per day.
B:Eat lean protein, trim the fat, and eat grass fed and organic meat products to avoid ingesting the hormones and antibiotics feed to animals. The average American diet is protein poor and carbohydrate rich, which is the opposite of heart healthy. Protein has been shown to be effective in lowering blood pressure and is necessary to build or maintain muscle. Remember, your heart is a very important muscle that needs to maintain its workload.
H:E:Have non-starchy vegetables. Eat them raw or lightly cooked, and leave them a little crunchy. Eat colorful and enjoy a variety. Also, consider buying from local farmers to avoid the long shelf life of foods, which reduces the nutritional quality of your foods.
Avoid transfats. They can increase triglycerides and cause more inflammation. For that reason, consider eating other heart healthy fats such as olive oil and moderate amounts of coconut oil. Eating fish and nuts such as almonds and walnuts are also a great source of healthy fats.
A:View your nutritional labels. If you are eating foods that are packaged and processed, check out your label. Ingredients such as maltodextrin, BHT, and BHA are all preservatives added to those foods, and if you look these up on the Internet, you will also find they are used in our local morgues. Therefore, choose foods with few ingredients, or better yet eat whole foods. Eating items in their natural state is the key.
V:E:Exercise your brain and your body. Although this is not necessarily part of your diet, it needs to be part of your heart healthy lifestyle. Recent research shows just walking can improve brain function, intellect, and memory. So not only are you protecting your heart, you are preserving your brain, too.
Eating heart healthy is not rocket science but it does require proper knowledge and some detective work. I urge you to recognize that these simple facts and have the power to change not only your heart but also your overall health. So B-E-H-A-V-E, eat heart smart, and get moving to preserve your heart health.
It is not our largest muscle but arguably it’s our strongest. It is certainly the most critical. It has held a unique place in human history and culture. Even primitive cultures recognized its importance and ascribed to it such human attributes as courage, strength of character, and love. Its symbolic representation is celebrated every year on Valentine’s Day. It is, of course, the human heart.
Weighing an average of 10 ounces, the human heart is a dynamo, beating an average of 70 times per minute over our lifetime. Over the course of a year, the heart pumps over 600,000 gallons of blood. This workhorse is not immune to problems, however, and heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide.
Most heart disease comes in the form of what is called ischemic heart disease. A network of blood vessels, called coronary arteries, supplies the heart muscle. In ischemic heart disease, a narrowing of the arteries restricts the flow of blood through these vessels, reducing their ability to supply the heart muscle with needed nourishment. If narrowing reaches a critical point, patients begin to experience symptoms including sharp, dull, pressurelike or crushing chest pain.
When the degree of ischemia reaches a critical point, the heart muscle begins to die. This is a heart attack, medically known
as a myocardial infarction, or MI for short. If enough heart muscle dies, you die.
The underlying cause of narrowing of the coronary arteries is the gradual deposition of cholesterol and calcium within the walls of the arteries, a process called atherosclerosis. Risk factors include smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, elevated blood levels of certain fats and cholesterol, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and a family history of heart disease.
Atherosclerosis was once thought to be primarily a disease of aging but this concept was shattered during the Korean War. The war produced a large number of casualties, providing an opportunity to perform an unprecedented number of autopsies on young men mostly in their 20s. To their astonishment, physicians discovered a large proportion of these otherwise healthy young men had significant atherosclerosis in their coronary arteries. They realized the process actually starts relatively early in life, even though it may not manifest clinically until decades later. This underscored the importance of preventative measures early.
Another misconception about atherosclerosis is it is primarily a disease of men, because most heart attacks seem to occur in men. However, with age, the occurrence of heart disease in women rapidly catches up in late middle age, especially after menopause, until it is equal with men. It seems
that female hormones protect and delay development of atherosclerotic heart disease. In women, symptoms of heart disease tend to be less typical than for men. As a result, it is often less readily recognized, which can delay the diagnosis.
Once atherosclerosis occurs, it not reversible. Currently, treatment of it involves two approaches. One is angioplasty, whereby the surgeon passes a thin catheter through a puncture in the groin, into a large vein, and all the way into the heart and a coronary artery. The tip is then pushed into the area of blockage and a small balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated, breaking up the plaque and restoring blood flow. If this is the only procedure, narrowing of the artery can re-occur quickly in most cases. To prevent this, a small, coiled, spring-like device called a stent is left in that part of the artery to act like a scaffold to support the blood vessel wall. Stenting has become extremely common, and most cases of atherosclerosis are now treated in this fashion. Unfortunately, not all patients are candidates for this type of treatment, and even with stents, reoccurrence of narrowing can occur.
The other approach is coronary bypass surgery, a major operation with real risks. In this operation, veins are harvested from the leg and sewn onto the heart, diverting blood around the blocked arteries. Coronary
bypass surgery has been refined to the point where success is the rule and long-term results are good. My own father had four vessels bypassed in his 60s and nearly 30 years later, the bypasses were still functioning.
However, both angioplasty and coronary bypass surgery are expensive procedures.
The popular saying, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” has become a cliché precisely because it is true, and never more so than in medicine. The financial cost of treating heart disease alone in the U.S. in 2010 was over $100 billion dollars. And this does not include the cost of lost productivity in the workplace and the human cost in lives lost before their time due to heart disease.
Everyone can lower their risk of heart disease. Perhaps first is to stop smoking or, better yet, never start. Make sure to take care with diet. The worst foods for increasing the risk of heart disease are refined sugar (especially high fructose corn syrup), unbleached flour, saturated animal fats, and transfats.
Also, keep your weight in line with what is recommended for your height. Your body mass index (you can find numerous sites to calculate this online) should be around 25. And don’t forget to exercise regularly.
Unfortunately, you can do everything right and still have elevated cholesterol, high blood pressure, and other risk factors that you cannot control, such as a family
history of heart disease. In such a case, you can reduce your risks by following the recommendations of your primary physician for treatment of these risk factors.
In all the discussion surrounding the future of health care, we should acknowledge that reducing the incidences of heart disease just may be the single most important thing we can do individually, and as a nation, to reduce health care costs.
FEED YOUR MIND 68 MOVING ON FROM UNREQUITED LOVE 70
Our nation’s psychiatric wards are filled with people who can’t adjust to the pressures imposed on them. Drugs, alcohol, sex, and food provide quick fixes, but these methods are temporary. Good mental practices are needed to help unlock the potential in every human being.
Genuine praise is hard to find in most families today. Negative statements tear down any incentive children may have to better themselves. Criticism erodes the unity of the family. The worst mistake any parent can do to their children is belittle their abilities in front of friends and neighbors. The child quickly learns to live up to the parent’s idea of him or her and underperforms at home and at school. Praise should be 10 times more lavish than any fault finding, regardless of its intent. This same lesson is seldom understood by managers and employers who want better performance from their employees.
Selfishness and greed pervades the thoughts of both the individual and those in positions of authority in government and business. Dishonesty is an infectious disease that infects reasoning ability and suppresses the need to show compassion and love. It produces the side effects of depression, hypertension, anger, and fear.
Media advertising has successfully instilled the idea of quick fix solutions. Purchases on credit come easy, but the happiness and
satisfaction of owning something that has been acquired through planned activity is something that can’t be replaced with plastic. Nothing can be achieved without the work needed to reach a goal. Setting goals is what makes life happy and rewarding.
Despite all the methods of communication available, more people isolate themselves from neighbors and friends. Texting and email have replaced the need for personal contact. Twitter and Facebook, while useful, have become good ways for many to distance themselves from facing the real world. No one needs to fear criticism as their faults aren’t evident on an iPhone. Lack of physical contact creates feelings of loneliness and failure, hardly qualities for a healthy mind.
It’s not easy to stay upbeat when the media broadcasts a steady stream of the worst side of humanity. Positive stories are often hard to find in the media. A good mental diet rests on filling the mind with uplifting thoughts. Far from ignoring the sad state of world affairs, a healthy mind focuses on the need for accomplishment.
While so many struggle to lose weight, stop smoking, or cure physical ills, they could have more success if they changed their mental diet. Vibrant health depends on having a healthy mind and a healthy body.
Although falling in love can lead to profound happiness and satisfaction, it can also be a source of extreme misery if the object of your affection does not reciprocate your feelings. Unrequited love can leave you with low self-esteem and can even cause depression. In addition, your feelings may be marginalized or viewed as inauthentic by some people, especially those who have never been in unrequited love. These four steps will help you to work through your feelings and eventually let go in a way that is both effective and healthy.
1. Acknowledge that you are not to blame.
There are two things to remember about why it is not your fault that your love is unrequited. First, you cannot consciously choose who you will find romantically attractive; therefore, you are not to blame for unluckily falling for someone who does not return your feelings. Similarly, it is also important to accept that neither you nor the object of your affections should be blamed when your love is not reciprocated. It is vital that you do not surmise you are unattractive, unworthy, or updateable just because one person does not love you. In fact, many different
things determine whether (and to what extent) you fall in love with someone. For example, complicated and uncontrollable biological factors such as immune system function and neurotransmitters can influence your chemistry with another person. So, while the person you love may not feel sexually or romantically attracted to you, it is likely many other people will. If you can start to view your unrequited love as less of a personal slight, it will be easier to move on from your sadness.
2. Spend less time around the person you love.
When you love someone, it is natural to crave their company and feel deeply sad when they are out of reach. However, in the case of unrequited love, repeated exposure will only serve to strengthen your frustrating attraction by fueling your addiction to the feelings of lust and excitement that you experience. If you really want to move on from unrequited love, then it is vital to put some distance between yourself and the other person. You can avoid the awkwardness of having to announce that you are taking this action by simply backing off in a way that is understated and gradual. If possible, avoid events where you would expect
to see the person, and do not contact them to chat. Seeing plenty of other people will also help you during this time, as it will keep you distracted. Call good friends and arrange lunch dates, movie nights, and so on. If, at some point, you find that you have genuinely moved past your romantic feelings, you can consider rekindling a purely platonic friendship with the person you used to love.
lunch nd so on. If, at u find that t you have ly romantic can consideer latonic friendshhip used to love.
3. Do not allow yourself to believe you are dependent on the person you love.
w to o on ng in unnrequited love ng and a sense of is mean on our life. Most raal times ever fall in love alize and s of s, er loved r take u ing cused
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Although being in unrequited love comes with longing and a sense of incompleteness, this does not mean your happiness depends on this other person’s love or presence in your life. Most people fall in love several times during a lifetime. Even if you never fall in love again it is important to realize you can still have a satisfying, full, and exciting life. To facilitate the process of moving on from your current feelings, try to focus on all of the other things that make you feel good. Appreciate your other loved ones, indulge in your hobbies (or take up new ones), and remember you will be happy again in the future. Staying busy and keeping your attention focused elsewhere will make it easier to move on from your sadness.
4. Remember being single has its rewards. Being in a loving relationship has wonderful benefits, but single people have other advantages to enjoy, as well. Indeed, many people who have been part of a couple for a long time can begin to miss the single life. If you are not in a relationship, your life is entirely your own. You can schedule events in a way that suits you; your living space is yours to decorate and organize how you want; and you can experience the fun of dating many new people. As you reflect on your life and relationships, do not overlook the very specific benefits of letting go of the particular person who does not return your love. Focus on his or her flaws and on your incompatibilities. Realize that some elements of being in a relationship with this person may have made you unhappy or may have even restricted your freedom in intolerable ways.
LEARNING TO LIVE AGAIN 74 PICKING UP THE PIECES 76 ROSES, CHOCOLATES, OR CARDS? 78
On Oct. 22, 2009, outside on my driveway, my life stopped. I couldn’t breathe. I felt as though I had left my own body. “Why can’t I cry?” I kept saying in between my screaming.
Racked by disbelief and fear, I was numb — unable to consider the implications of the news I had received. At 38 years old, my best friend, my life partner, the man who took care of me and our children — my everything — had suddenly been ripped away from us. I found my home suddenly filled with people. My daughter Madison, who was 6 at the time, kept telling everyone “My daddy is dead!” in almost the same manner a child would announce a new puppy.
I held out hope her daddy was still alive since I hadn’t been officially notified of the plane crash. Perhaps the plane just simply went down and Scott was standing in some field wishing he hadn’t left his phone in his truck. I recall coming into the living room where the TV was on, and there he was. The news was showing old footage of him as they reported this unbelievable event. Their casual certainty directly challenged my desperate denial.
I felt lost and hopeless at the very thought of life without Scott. I drew my strength from him. We were the perfect balance. Any attempt at grasping the very notion of carrying on without him seemed futile. I remember telling my mom that I just wanted to die. Never had those words come from my
lips with more meaning. Without hesitation in that sweet motherly voice, she reminded me of my children. At that moment, I was thrust into a role I didn’t want nor thought I was capable of filling: the role of mommy and daddy. I had to make one of the most difficult decisions of my life to push on.
Hundreds came out to show their love and support in honor of Scott’s life. People waited in lines wrapped around the block at our church to give their condolences. The viewing lasted four hours. Sherriff Gary Borders provided our family a motorcade escort from our home to the church both days. I know Scott was loved, but I never realized until that moment just how much. This has always remained in my heart.
My friends and family never left my side. My parents spent countless nights on the couch to be close to us. My four children slept in my room with me. We depended on each other more than ever, and the love of my family solidified my resolve. I was determined to carry on as best I could.
After Scott’s death, the remainder of my year seemed to slip away in a melancholic blur. Halloween, my birthday, our 18th wedding anniversary, Thanksgiving, and Christmas all dragged by. Days that had previously fi lled me with joy seemed bitter and hollow without my husband to share them. I was going through the motions in a feeble attempt at restoring normalcy for my children. Their lives had already
been turned upside-down; I knew they needed the small measure of comfort that these traditions provided.
Over the next four years so much happened — graduations, driver’s licenses, dance recitals, homecoming dances, proms, fi rst dates, lost baby teeth. Through good times, and bad, we attempted to make sense of a life without Scott. We faced new and tremendous challenges because each child handled the loss differently. I sat with my little Madison more nights than I can count holding her as she cried, trying to explain why God needed her daddy. How do you rationalize such a travesty to a child so young and fragile? Simply put, her father was so wonderful, caring, giving, and loving that God needed him in Heaven.
I made many wrong decisions, as well as an occasional right one, as I struggled to come to terms with my new identity. You go into survival mode, and you do what you feel is necessary in light of such an impossible situation. Often times such a mentality is met with scrutiny and judgment rather than love and understanding.
My children were what kept me going then, and they are still the ones who keep me going now. Nothing is as important to me as successfully fi nishing what Scott and I started. In my eyes, although they too have made bad choices, there are no other children more beautiful, precious,
loving, and deserving than Chase, Chandler, Michaella, and Madison.
Scott was my heart. He is in everything I see or do. When I look into the eyes of our children, I can see him. The boys somehow are even starting to act like him. When I look across the room and see Chandler standing like his father, or Chase using his hands to explain something to his sisters, nothing makes me smile more.
Today, life is far from easy; however, God has sent someone very special to help me. I believe Scott knows we are in good and loving hands now. I am grateful God has provided a man that not only loves my strengths but sees past my weaknesses, and who loves my children as much as I do.
I am closer with each passing day to coming to terms with my loss. I am able to move forward not because it is easy, but because I now know that I am strong enough. Romans 5:3-4 encourages me with its promise: “For we can rejoice in our suffering, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope.”
At one time or another, every individual experiences grief. Death, broken or strained relationships, and pain obviously cause grief. Grieving is very important and it should not be rushed; however, if it becomes overwhelming it can affect all areas of life, ultimately leading to even greater suffering and distress. Finding the best technique for handling your personal grief can be a great help.
• Share your feelings with a friend or mentor. Talking about your grief can help you recognize your own emotions and accept them, while you are simultaneously receiving consolation and understanding from a confidant.
• Listen to soothing music. Turn on classical music, or any form of music that is peaceful, gentle, and harmonious. If you have thousands of thoughts and feelings rushing through your head, soothing music can help restore order in your mind, which can help you think things through more clearly.
• Turn to faith. If you believe in God, pray. Ask God to strengthen and console you. Draw peace, courage, and fortitude from your confidence in God’s presence in your life.
• Allow yourself to cry. Tears are a natural relief mechanism. Let them flow. Sometimes crying effectively releases different emotions and makes you feel more at peace with yourself and the situation. Unfortunately, society often portrays tears as a sign of weakness. However, tears portray universal human feelings and are one way of regaining strength.
• Talk with someone who has been through something similar. Sometimes it seems impossible to believe that anyone can understand the pain and suffering you are going through. While no one else can know exactly how you are feeling, someone who has been through a similar tragedy or loss can relate to you. Hearing about their experience can help you feel understood and might even give you new techniques for handling your grief.
• Write about your experience. If you want to write as a personal release but keep your experience private, start a diary or journal. If you want support from a virtual community or want to help others by sharing your experience, consider a public forum like a blog.
• Enjoy nature. Go for a hike, or just go out in your backyard to enjoy the view. Relaxing
and breathing in the fresh air can help relieve some of the stress and tension associated with grief.
• Exercise. Walk, jog, stretch, or find some other form of exercise you enjoy. In addition to helping you release physical tension, exercise will help you maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle while overcoming your grief.
• Make time for hobbies. Find time to do what you enjoy, even if it means working a little less. Focusing on your grief all the time can be debilitating. Prioritizing a hobby gives you a set time and focus that can distract you from the cause of your suffering and help you start building new experiences.
Try to discover which of these techniques, or combination thereof, helps you the most. Your goal should not be to forget the cause of your grief but to better understand your experience so you can accept what has occurred and continue living a healthy life. Don’t expect instant results; overcoming grief takes time and patience. If you don’t find yourself coming to terms with your grief and suffering after a period of time, or if you find that your grief is threatening your own health or safety in some way, seek professional assistance.
Men suffer at least as much from bereavement as women. Contrary to the popular stereotype of women as more dependent and emotio
SOURCE: www.psychologytoday.com/blog/hot-thought/201109/facts-about-grief
nal, widowers often suffer more grief than widows do.
Well, what’s it going to be this year? Will it be roses, chocolate, a card, jewelry, lingerie, a new car? We have been preconditioned to celebrate Valentine’s Day, and it all started with your kindergarten teacher! You remember the February classroom activity, right? She handed everyone a brown paper lunch bag and said to decorate it and put your name on it. Then she hung them up along the wall in the room at just the right height. Next came the card making or card buying exercise and decisions as to who got the “special card” from you. Delivery time was filled with nervous laughter and excitement as you put the cards into your classmate’s bags, then checked to see how your bag was filling up. At last, she’d give the go-ahead to open your bag and see who had given you the coveted card that said “Love” on it — not to mention the little candy treats. The only thing you could think about for the rest of the day was the little girl who put that card in your sack and how your life “would never be the same.”
I don’t want to burst your bubble, but I say pox on Valentine’s Day! I don’t want the secondhand guilt that is associated with this contrived celebration. I know that I should pause here and say that I know what you are thinking: This writer is the poster child for Curmudgeons International. I am not, but neither am I someone you would call a hopeless romantic.
If you make Valentine’s Day the only time you tell others how you feel about them, then you are the curmudgeon. You don’t want to be the fellow whose wife of 35 years complains to her pastor that he never says “I love you.” Then the husband responds, “I told you I loved you when we got married, and if that ever changes, I will let you know!”
When it comes down to it, we frequently fall into the routines of expectations. We simply do the things expected of us because it is expected we will. The problem with that is that expectation becomes like a duty that we must fulfill — there is no heart behind the action. I think the way to overcome living life out of a sense of duty is to
become deliberate in living life out of delight. I think our Valentine’s Day cards ought to come all the time and at seemingly random times because we simply delight in that person. You could still give a gift or card on Feb. 14, but even better than that, why don’t you keep a box of cards and every time you have a loving thought about your “Valentine,” write a note and send the card — even if it’s August?
I believe we need to express our delight in the ones we love on a regular basis. I suspect it can only improve good relationships and begin healing struggling relationships.
But just so you know, this is not actually my own idea. It is a principle that has its root in the way God treats us as humans. Just think for a minute about the Old and New Testaments. They are in actuality a series of 66 “love letters” from God to humankind, which were written over many centuries to tell us about His love for man.
One of the key themes of the Bible is “God is love,” and that is not just a cold analytical statement. It really means God is so loving that He is the ultimate standard of love itself. Therefore, when we delight in expressing our love toward our wives not out of obligation, then we actually reflect the very delight God has for man. I think that is supremely better than buying my wife a dozen roses just because it’s the day I’m supposed to do it.
If anyone reading this is a kindergarten teacher, or has ever been one, I want to make the statement that the names of former kindergarten teachers and classmates have been omitted to protect myself. And please make my classmates put something nice in my bag.
My passions are being a dad, a husband, and a cardiologist. I enjoy the interaction with my patients and their families. I always strive to treat my patients exactly how I would want a physician to treat my mom or dad.
The Leesburg Area Chamber of Commerce presents:
The Leesburg Area Chamber of Commerce Presents:
Kick start that New Year’s Resolution by participating in the Business Wellness Challenge!!
Kick start that New Year’s Resolution by participating in the Business Wellness Challenge!!
$100 per person for Chamber members, $125 per person for nonChamber members. 5 person teams.
$100 per person for Chamber members, $125 per person for non-Chamber members. 5 person teams.
Your team could win prizes including:
Your team could win prizes including:
Five 1-year memberships at Leesburg Regional Medical Center Wellness Center ($2,200 value)
Massage a month for each member of the winning team by Tracy Zito, L.M.T. at Infinity Fitness & Medi Spa
• 1/2 page in Healthy Living Magazine for 3 months. Value of $4050.00 • Five 1-year memberships at Leesburg Regional Medical Center Wellness Center ($2,200 value)
Five spa and gym packages from Infinity Fitness & Medi Spa
• Massage a month for each member of the winning team by Tracy Zito, L.M.T. at Infinity Fitness & Medi Spa
• Five spa and gym packages from Infinity Fitness & Medi Spa
• Two boarding passes for each member of the winning team on Victory Casino Cruises from Port Canaveral
Two boarding passes for each member of the winning team on Victory Casino Cruises from Port Canaveral
And many more!!
• And many more!!
Challenge runs February 18 – May 6, 2014
• Challenge runs February 18 – May 6, 2014
A Healthy Business is a Healthy Community
Marital trends are changing and many couples are turning to prenuptial agreements to protect their financial future. Increasing numbers of Americans are tying the knot at an older age and may be entering their second or third marriage. These couples generally bring more assets into the relationship and may have complex financial situations. According to a 2010 poll by the American Association of Matrimonial Lawyers, prenuptial agreements are becoming more generally accepted as a tool to protect assets and income by Americans of all ages and income levels.
At their most basic level, prenuptial agreements, also frequently called premarital agreements, are contracts signed by couples before marrying that cover property and asset distribution in the event that the couple divorces. Most couples that create prenuptial agreements do so when either partner:
• Owns real estate, such as a primary residence;
• Brings significant debt;
• Holds significant assets like retirement accounts or other wealth;
• Has children from a prior relationship to support;
• Has existing estate plans
If you’re debating about getting a prenuptial agreement, it’s important to understand what the law allows in this type of contract. Keep in mind that every state has different laws regarding premarital agreements and it’s wise to consult a financial adviser or family attorney before taking this important step.
There can be many positives to creating a premarital agreement with your future spouse.
Developing a prenup with your partner may help strengthen your relationship by ensuring you’re both on the same page about important issues surrounding money. While people may imagine negotiating a prenup is adversarial or implies distrust, talking frankly about money and property can establish ground rules and eliminate misunderstandings that might otherwise crop up. Remember, you and your future spouse will be discussing money throughout your entire marriage so there’s no time like the present to start.
Prenuptial agreements can also help protect separate property that either or both of you may bring into the marriage. For example, you may own a family heirloom or share in a family asset that you want to protect. By properly defining what property will be considered community property and what will be kept separate you may be able to reduce
conflicts and save money in the event of divorce. Some of us bring debts, as well as assets, into a marriage. A prenup can help prevent creditors from turning to marital assets to satisfy individual debts.
A prenup may be necessary if you or your spouse has children from another relationship to support. If you are concerned about ensuring your children inherit their share of your property, you can develop an agreement with your spouse that stipulates how assets will be divided in the event of a death. If protecting your estate plan is one of your goals, it’s vital you also update your estate planning documents to support your intentions.
While there are definite advantages to developing a premarital agreement with your future spouse, there are some possible downsides to consider, as well.
Prenuptial agreements may not always be necessary. If neither you nor your partner have accumulated significant assets, do not expect to inherit property, or do not have children, a prenup may not be necessary. In other cases, the existing laws in your state may already accomplish the goals of a prenup. In community property states, assets and debts owned before the marriage are usually considered separate property and those accumulated during the marriage are generally split equally.
SOURCE: “Big Rise in Prenuptial Agreements Says Survey of Nation’s Top Divorce Lawyers.” American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyer s. www.aaml.org/about-the-academy/press/pressreleases/pre-post-nuptial-agreements/big-rise-prenuptial-agreements-sa (Accessed December 16, 2013) Securities and advisory ser vices offered through SII Investments, Inc., member FINRA, SIPC and a Registered Investment Advisor. Fross and Fross Wealth Management and SII Investments, Inc. are separate compa nies. SII does not provide tax or legal advice.
DON’T WAIT UNTIL YOU ARE READY TO WALK DOWN THE AISLE BEFORE DECIDING IF YOU NEED A PREMARITAL AGREEMENT.WRITERS: THOMAS FROSS AND ROBERT FROSS
In both these cases, the time and expense associated with a prenup may outweigh the possible benefits.
Negotiating or asking for a prenuptial agreement can also bring up tricky emotional issues or erode trust between partners. Open communication and timing are important when discussing money with a partner. Marriage is a financial partnership, as well as a romantic one, but if you don’t feel that you can discuss issues of property or divorce without creating problems, you may not be good candidates for a prenup.
You should also keep in mind that prenuptial agreements can be set aside for reasons such as lack of independent representation of one partner, failure to completely disclose assets, or if there is evidence of fraud or duress when signing the agreement. “Unfair” provisions, like financial penalties for infidelity, are also frequently unenforceable.
Prenuptial agreements can be a valuable tool to protect your family’s financial future, but they may not be for everyone. It’s wise to consult a financial adviser or marital attorney who can help you explore your personal situation and assist you in developing strategies to suit your needs. If you’re concerned about the emotional aspects of the process, consider bringing in a mediator who can help smooth the process.
If you decide that you want to sign a prenuptial agreement with your future spouse, it’s critical to discuss the agreement early in the relationship process — don’t wait until you’re ready to walk down the aisle to bring up such an important issue. Be honest with your partner about your thoughts, feelings, and motivations for wanting a prenup; your discussions will be laying the groundwork for communication about important issues during the marriage.
As Americans, we pay more for health care than any other developed country, and still health care costs continue to skyrocket.
Since health care reform (known as The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, aka Obamacare) was signed into law in 2010, some elements have gone into effect while others will begin rolling out this year and in 2015. Here are some basics of how these changes may affect you financially.
The biggest change is most Americans and legal residents must purchase health insurance. This provision took effect this year (although some people can be exempted if they can show financial hardship, that health insurance goes against religious beliefs, or that they are American Indian.) Financial penalties for those who don’t purchase insurance start at 1 percent of their income and rise to 2.5 percent of income by 2016. Note: The employer’s mandate to provide coverage for employees was also scheduled to begin this year; however, the requirement will not be enforced until January 2015.
This year Medicaid was expanded to allow more people to qualify, including low-income adults without children. For those who don’t qualify for Medicaid and can’t afford health insurance, state-based
insurance exchanges may offer slidingscale subsidies to help pay premiums.
Starting this year:
Insurers can’t reject you for coverage based on your health status. For now, a high-risk insurance pool will be created on a temporary basis to make sure those who have been rejected and uninsured for at least six months can get access to health coverage.
Insurance companies have to cover preexisting conditions in children. This could make it more affordable for some parents to get help for chronic diseases and other problems affecting their children.
Policies sold on insurance exchanges will have to cover visits to the doctor, prescriptions, preventative tests, maternity care, and hospitalizations.
Lifetime limits on coverage are banned, and annual limits on coverage will be disallowed.
Children will be able to remain on their parents’ insurance policy until their 27th birthday, as long as there is no insurance offered through the child’s work.
Those in their 20s will have the option to buy “catastrophic” insurance plans with lower premiums and coverage that kicks in after $6,000 in out-of-pocket expenses.
If you have Medicare, you are probably aware of the “doughnut hole.” In 2010, seniors participating in Medicare
Part D began receiving a $250 rebate to help close this gap in the prescription drug coverage program. In 2011, participants in the program also received a 50 percent discount on name brand drugs. Subsidies and discounts will eliminate the gap over the next 10 years so that by 2020, those seniors now paying 100 percent of their prescription costs will only pay 25 percent of them eventually.
Preventative services through Medicare are now free (no co-payments or deductibles), providing a cost-effective way to receive screening for cancer and other health issues.
In 2011, some began seeing their benefits cut for items such as hearing aids, eyeglasses, and wellness center memberships. The cuts are being phased in over the course of seven years.
As you might imagine, health care reform is going to affect taxes, and even deductions. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) says health care reform will pay for itself — and reduce the deficit in 10 years. That doesn’t just happen magically. Here are some of the changes to taxes as a result of health care reform:
• Couples earning more than $250,000 a year, and individuals earning more than $200,000 a year, will see an increase from 1.45 percent Medicare tax to 2.35 percent (as of 2013).
• Those with the higher income listed above would also see a 2.8 percent tax on unearned income (interest and dividends).
• Starting in 2018, a 40 percent excise tax will be imposed on the portion of employer-sponsored “Cadillac plans” that exceeds $10,200 a year for individuals and $27,500 for families.
• The threshold for deducting medical expenses (unreimbursed) would be raised to 10 percent of income from 7.5 percent, so many will lose these current tax deductions.
• Those who use indoor tanning facilities will pay a 10 percent tax.
• Your tax-advantaged flexible spending
account contributions will be limited to $2,500 for medical expenses.
It’s hard to tell what health care reform will do to your insurance premiums. Whether or not this bill will actually keep a lid on costs is being debated. There are some arguments that unhealthy people will see lower premiums on individual plans, while the healthy see the same or higher premiums. Those who end up receiving subsidies, reports the CBO, will see an 11 percent decrease in their premiums, and those with small group coverage are expected to see their premiums remain the same. Big
employers are expected to see premiums stay flat or drop by as much as 3 percent.
It’s time to look over your health insurance and make plans for what the future most likely holds for you, depending on your current situation and the possibilities for health insurance going forward.
The provisions of the new health care law are complex. If you would like to learn more about how your health care coverage may change, visit www.healthcare.gov.
If baggy, swollen, in-turning or out-turning eyelids are impacting your vision and appearance, you may be a candidate for cosmetic blepharoplasty, a safe, effective surgery that removes excess skin and fat from the upper and lower eyelids. Locally, one of the most respected and experienced doctors performing this procedure is Board-certified Comprehensive Ophthalmologist, Shelby Terpstra, DO.
“Every service I provide is designed to help people see and feel better,” says Dr. Terpstra, “but blepharoplasty is unique in that it can actually enhance a person’s appearance to match their improved vision and outlook.”
Board-certified ophthalmologist: SHELBY L. TERPSTRA, DO
The surgery is relatively simple and can correct an array of pathologies, functional problems and cosmetic disfigurations, and is often covered by insurance. Post-op, Dr. Terpstra’s patients report enjoying improved peripheral vision, restoring for many the ability to watch TV, read, drive and so much more.
Additionally, patients look more alert and refreshed. Says Dr. Terpstra, “I’ve done countless blepharoplasties and seeing the boost to patients’ function and self-esteem is rewarding every time.”
If you think blepharoplasty might be right for you, call us today for a consultation. It will be an eye-opener.
“Everything about Dr. T and this procedure exceeded my expectations. There was no pain, no bruising, the healing process was extremely quick. My friends have all commented on how wonderful I look, and requested Dr. T's information so they could get it done as well.”
– Simone Hasker“My experience with this procedure was excellent. The results have been amazing – so much so, I sent my husband to Dr. Terpstra to have the same procedure. Now both of us are seeing better!”
– Mary Allen
While the majority of patients report a positive result, surgical outcomes may vary.
This year’s three-day educational symposium will include the latest information on critical care, as well as cardiovascular health. Relax and socialize at the “Heart-to-Heart after Dark” party on Thursday, Feb. 6. Tickets are just $10, which includes great food, drink tickets, entertainment, and more. The cost of the symposium for Central Florida Health Alliance (CFHA) employees is $75 for one day, $100 for two days, or $150 for three days. The cost for nonCFHA employees is $100 for one day, $150 for two days, or $200 for three days. All prices include breakfast, lunch, and conference materials. Information: Becky Craine at bcraine@chfalliance.org or 352.323.5400
In downtown Bushnell Plaza Park, the chili tasting is from 11a.m. to 1p.m. and the prizes will be announced at 1:30p.m. Wristbands are $5 and all proceeds benefit Sumter County Hospice and Lane Purcell Hospice Care. Information: Susan Bennett at 352.742.6807
Tickets are $25 each. Shopping will be available starting at 10a.m at Trilogy Orlando, 107 Falling Acorn Ave., in Groveland. All proceeds benefit New Beginnings, a nonprofit that helps Lake County homeless children and their families. Information: 352.617.8788
This health and wellness expo will include over 50 health, wellness, and fitness booths featuring clinical and educational resources all geared toward providing you with the most up-todate information for living a full and active life. There will also be free glucose, total lipid panel, blood pressure, spine, and hearing screenings. From 8 to 11a.m. at Florida Hospital Waterman in Tavares. Information: 352.253.3635
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Starting at 9a.m. at South Lake High School, this 5K will include music, fun, and food, as well as a fun Beatles theme. Come dressed as your favorite Beatle, Beatle’s song, or era. The event will raise funds for the Screaming Eagle Band Program. To register for the Band on the Run 5K walk/run, log on to www.screamingeagle5k. com or active.com. Registration costs $30 per person or $20 per person with a team of 10 or more members. Information: www. screamingeagle5k.com
Join the pet-friendly folks at Bill Bryan Subaru from 10a.m.–4p.m. The event will host several pet rescue agencies with cats, dogs, and even rabbits up for adoption. Various area vendors will attend, including therapy dog agencies, dog groomers, a professional pet photographer, and a licensed dog trainer. Food trucks, live music, pet supplies, children’s games, and prizes will all be at this charitable event. All proceeds made through donations and raffle drawings will go toward the nonprofit rescue organizations. Information: 352.787.2223
Trout Lake Nature Center will hold a festival-sized party to celebrate its 25th anniversary and the 50th anniversary of its founding group, the Ocklawaha Valley Audubon Society. From 9a.m. to 4p.m. at Trout Lake Nature Center, 520 E. County Road 44, Eustis. The event is free. Information: 352.357.7536
Proceeds from this project will go to the 2014 Florida Hospital Waterman mission project in the Dominican Republic. The team will be adding two classrooms to a school they helped build in Barahona in 2003. From 7:30 to 9:45a.m. at Wooton Park in Tavares. Entry fees are $30 the day of the race; and free for the 100-yard Kids Fun Run (for children 7 and under). Sign up on race day at Wooton Park, 100 E. Ruby St., Tavares, between 6:30a.m. to 7:15a.m. Cash or check only.
You don’t have to live with the pain and discomfort that comes with chronic and degenerative arthritis. Learn how this disease affects your joints, which conservative treatment options are available, and when you should consider surgery as Dr. Carl Ollivierre answers your questions and discusses chronic and degenerative arthritis. From 3 to 4p.m. at Comfort Suites in The Villages. Information: 352.323.3232
The 5K course includes an out-and-back course on Lake Dora Drive. The half marathon course starts with a 5K loop followed by a five mile out and back course along Lakeshore Drive from Tavares to Mount Dora. While most people will jog or run the course, this is your race so walking either distance is okay. Entry fees for the 5K are $25 by Feb. 23; $30 the week of the race; and $35 the day of the race. Entry fees for the half marathon are $60 by Feb. 23; $70 the week of the race; and $80 the day of the race. Information: www. sommersports.com
By providing quality, comprehensive care that is tailored to the unique needs and desires of each patient, our accomplished board-certified physicians, physician assistants, and doctors of audiology can effectively diagnose and treat individuals who come to our offices looking for answers and solutions.
Q: What are some of the most common allergies?
A: Some of the most common allergies are to dust, mold, trees, grass, weeds, and animals such as dogs and cats.
Q: How do Botox injections work? When will I see results from a Botox cosmetic treatment? A:
Botox injections work by blocking the chemical that signals the targeted muscle of the face to contract and move. The onset of action usually takes two to three days to start and continues for the first week. Afterward, the Botox effect typically will last three to four months. Regular use may increase the longevity of a Botox treatment.
Learn more about sinus conditions and the Balloon Sinuplasty procedure at our dedicated website www.LakeSinusRelief.com
The team at Lake Ear, Nose, Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery is dedicated to being an advocate for your health and giving you an experience that is convenient and comfortable. Our health care professionals believe that patient care is of the utmost priority.
Offices located in Leesburg, Tavares, and The Villages LakeENT.net
Florida Hospital Waterman kicked off Breast Cancer Awareness Month with its 4th annual Pinking Ceremony. The event included a mini-health expo, live music, and several guest speakers, including a radiologist, general surgeon, and breast cancer survivor. Throughout October, the hospital lit its fountain and canopy in pink, reminding everyone about the importance of early detection.
New Body Contours held an educational event to introduce the public to its latest advanced skin care technology called HydraFacial. The company is the only one in The Villages to utilize this technology, which cleanses, exfoliates, and hydrates the skin. During the free event, trained estheticians from New Body Contours provided product demonstrations. The company holds free educational seminars every Thursday at 5p.m.
PHOTOGRAPHER: AUBREY AKERS
1. Noreen Pieper
2. Dorothy Rose and Mary Kay Googims
3. Charlotte Gillott
4. Cheryl Macphee
Florida Hospital Waterman suffered a big loss ... in a good way. Fifty-five employees competed in the hospital’s Biggest Winner competition and lost a total of 430 pounds. The competition lasted from October 1, 2013 through January 7, 2014. A ceremony was held following the competition to recognize participants for their hard work and dedication. During the ceremony, prizes were awarded to individuals who displayed exceptional performance.
“Home is where the heart is. For me, it’s the Sunshine State!”
— Matthew Gaulin
Heart disease is the leading cause of death claiming the lives of one in three women.
Go Red For Women® is the American Heart Association’s national movement to end heart disease in women.
Because our health is non-negotiable, because we have the power to save our lives, and because the best force for women, is women.
At Florida Hospital Waterman, our patients’ health and wellbeing is our top priority. We know patients turn to us trusting we will do our best to get them back to their best. We’re committed to providing advanced, safe, compassionate care to each and every patient. And we’re proud to be recognized as Lake County’s safest hospital with the county’s only “A” Hospital Safety Score based on how well we protect patients from accidents, errors, injuries and infections. Visit FHWat.org to learn more about our commitment to safety and improving patient care.
www.hospitalsafetyscore.org
