We Love to See You

“When my dentist of over 40 years decided to retire, I was feeling anxious about going to someone new. However, when I went to Dr. Adam Barr’s office, everyone was so warm, caring, and professional that I was able to feel at ease. Dr. Barr really takes the time to explain to his patients what they can expect, and he is very passionate about his job. I would not hesitate to recommend him to others.”

Health in Lake County

In March, the University of Wisconsin and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation released the fourth annual County Health Rankings and Roadmaps study. This report serves as a snapshot of the health of individuals across counties in each state.

In Lake County, there are areas of progress and continuing opportunity. For example, the rate of adults who smoke has decreased from 21 percent in 2010 to 16 percent in 2013. This is due, in part, to the expanding outreach of the Lake County Health Department’s tobacco cessation program. Of course, challenges remain for the larger community since the number of primary care providers has decreased over the past four years while the number of children living in poverty has increased.

The Lake County Health Department is collaborating with community partners to implement plans to address these issues, as well as other areas. “We will continue our work with community partners to improve the health of residents in Lake County,” says Donna Gregory, administrator of the Lake County Department of Health. ■

A Leg Up On Pois N

Remember your pet when it comes to poison prevention. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the top 10 pet toxins of 2012 were as follows:

• Prescription human medications

• Insecticides

• Over-the-counter human medications

• Veterinary products and medications

• Household products

• People food

• Chocolate

• Plants

• Rodenticides

• Lawn and garden products

BEAR-Y CHARITABLE

When a person loses a loved one, sometimes photos and memories are not enough to get through the grieving process. They need something tangible to hold onto and provide comfort.

That is where Ella Sweigard of Tavares comes in. She creates handcrafted teddy bears as part of Cornerstone Hospice’s Bear in Mind program. The bears are constructed completely out of memory material (garments, ties, accessories, etc.) provided by the family for their special bear. Sweigard hand stitches the 18-inch bears, which is difficult and time-consuming, but well worth the effort.

“The giveback is upstairs,” says Sweigard, a hair stylist by trade who has suffered the loss of several family members. “I know the bears add to the quality of life for the family that is grieving. The smiles I receive from patients’ families when they receive this huggable token of their loved one is my reward.”

Anyone interested in becoming a Bear in Mind volunteer can call 1.888.728.6234. ■