Unlimited life spans… disease-free living… the end of genetic illnesses. The limit of medicine’s capabilities just may be the limit of our imaginations. What does the future hold for us today?
It’s important to make time for a yearly mammogram. At Leesburg Regional Medical Center, we have faster, more accurate digital mammography equipment for are knowledgeable and experienced. Private dressing rooms. Cozy, full-coverage robes. Freshly baked cookies in our waiting room. All designed to make you feel right at home. Our hospital-based mammography suite is anything but ordinary.
Visit www.leesburgregional.org/mammo or schedule your mammogram right away by calling (352) 751-8888.
CELEBRATING THE FOUR PILLARS OF A HEALTHY LIFE
FEATURING
LIVE HEALTHY COOKING SHOW presented by The Healthy Gourmet
A keynote address from Lake Nutrition Center licensed nutritionist JEFF WITTMAN PLUS OVER 50 EXHIBITORS from the health, wellness, and nutrition industries all under one roof!
GIVEAWAYS/ SPECIAL OFFERS
LASER TRIM CONTOURS
6 free treatments raffled off
PLAZA CADILLAC
Hats, t-shirts, pens and key chains
LEXINGTON PARK
Local restaurant gift card
SALT ROOM
Enter to win a gift basket
GOGA
All EXPO attendees get 3 free sessions
KA DEE KAY
10% off for each of our booth visitors
BOSSHARDT & MARZEK
First 50 booth visitors get a free cosmetic consultation plus 10% off surgeon’s fees
IT WORKS!
Enter to win a complimentary wrap
LEADING EDGE DENTAL
Enter to win a bleaching kit, 1-hour massage, or a $1000 mini implants procedure
SHARIE GARDNER
Free set of eyebrows and a set of eyeliners raffled off
HERITAGE DENTAL
Enter to win a gift basket
CHIROPRACTIC USA
Win 12 free chiropractic sessions
IMAGE LIFT
Enter to win a chemical peel
441 URGENT CARE FREE physical exam
A portion of the proceeds benefits
Where Hope Comes to Life
FRIDAY, NOV. 16, 2012 10A.M.–2P.M. AT HARBOR HILLS COUNTRY CLUB 6538 LAKE GRIFFIN RD, LADY LAKE FOR MORE INFORMATION: CONTACT TINA AT TINA@AKERSMEDIAGROUP.COM OR HLMAGEXPO.COM // 352.787.4112
SPECIAL GIVEAWAYS! Gastrointestinal
“At a time in my life when it felt like everything was taken from me, the team at Bosshardt & Marzek gave me the ability to be in control of my life and made me feel whole again.”—
KristieTeske (Breast cancer survivor who underwent breast reconstruction)
October 2012
Major technological advances in fields such as physics, chemistry, genetics, and radiology… even engineering and thermodynamics are helping shape the future of medicine. Procedures and devices that were mere figments of imagination for forward-thinking science fiction writers of the past are being used today to save lives and treat chronic illnesses. Why look to tomorrow when the future is here today?
WRITER: BETSY STOUTMORRILL AND JIM GIBSON
ON THE COVER DIRECTION: STEVEN J. CODRARO
PHOTOSHOP: JOSH CLARK
SHAPE
52 IS UNDERARM FLAB HAUNTING YOU?
Tighten those triceps with these easy exercises.
WRITER: AL CARDIELLO
EAT FIT/NOT FAT
54 ROMANO’S MACARONI GRILL Eat healthy but keep the flavor.
WRITER: JANICE VIERA
RICE SCARE
56 SAY IT AIN’T SO UNCLE BEN Arsenic in rice? How did it get there and will it affect your family?
RECIPE
57 PUMPKIN STEW
Fall into autumn with this flavorful stew.
INSIDE
58 CANCER: THE NEXT GENERATION OF CARE Medical advances strengthen war against breast cancer.
WRITER: MAEN HUSSEIN, M.D.
LOOK
60 (NOT SO SCARY) FACE MASKS FOR HEALTHIER SKIN
Pamper your face with these household items.
WRITER: RUTH ANN BYRD, L.E., CME
CHANGE
61 ICE, ICE BABY!
Go platinum this season.
WRITER: KEVIN BOZADJIAN
HYGIENE
62 SCARY BREATH: COMMON CAUSES AND EASY FIXES
Slay dragon breath with these beneficial tips.
WRITER: MARJA MEHR, DDS
HEALTHYMIND
ACTION
64 EXERCISE AND BRAIN FUNCTION
Engage in a little cerebral calisthenics.
WRITER: RICHARD T. BOSSHARDT, M.D., FACS
FUNCTION
66 FIVE WAYS TO RECHARGE YOUR DAY
Give your mind a wake-up call.
WRITER: TRACY DRAPER
DISCIPLINE
67 HOW TO RECOGNIZE YOUR HUNGER SIGNALS
What do you do when you have food on the brain?
WRITER: TABATHA ARCARO-ORTIZ, M.S., R.D., LD/N
AWARENESS
70 DISCOVER YOUR SPIRIT
Is there more to this world than meets the eye?
MENCOURAGEMENT
72 THE DETAILS OF LIVING Let others know you care.
INNERVENTION
73 CALL ME CRAZY Quit dwelling on the past and embrace the now.
WRITER: CHRISTIE LOVE ETTER
14
MATTERS
24 S’MOTHERHOOD
26 MEDICAL MYSTERIES
86 CALENDAR
88 COMMUNITY
106 VIEWS
76 “TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE? ... THEN MAYBE IT IS!’
INSIGHT
Spot a scam before it is too late.
WRITER: ELLENBWILCOX,GEPC
SHOP
78 FALL SAVINGS
Be festive without going broke this Halloween.
WRITER: MARY EDWARDS
MONEY
79 FIVE WAYS TO A HEALTHY, HAPPY HOLIDAY BUDGET. Make a plan to save, not splurge.
WRITER: KATE SHEAROUSE
KENDRA AKERS publisher kendra@akersmediagroup.com
DOUG AKERS vice president doug@akersmediagroup.com
EDITORIAL // DESIGN
I am so excited about this month’s issue. We have advertised it for months and now the time has arrived to showcase our first-ever feature on the latest medical breakthroughs. Many lives have been saved and many people are experiencing a much better quality of life due to these remarkable advances. Our team has compiled a list of the most amazing procedures and ingenious technological developments available in the field of medicine today, and I am astonished to see how far we have come in the world of science.
Here at Healthy Living magazine we always strive to provide you with well-rounded content. We promote living a well-balanced lifestyle in the areas of Mind, Body, Spirit, and Finance, and our goal is to keep you abreast of the latest news, trends, and breakthroughs in all these areas every month.
As you make your way through the magazine, you will see some of the breakthroughs I am talking about. In our Healthy Body section, when local trainers get wind of a new workout or the best way to perform exercises that have been around for years, you will find it in our pages first.
This month we also have a piece on rice and arsenic you might want to check out. Consumer Reports took it upon themselves to test rice and rice products for arsenic, and the results might just amaze you. (Sometimes just knowing what is safe to eat seems to be a breakthrough.)
When it comes to our Healthy Spirit section, each and every time you read Innervention you will be exploring new frontiers of the heart and mind. This month we are delving into the subject of mental illness, and I applaud contributor Christie Love Etter for laying her life out there for all of us to see. Thank you, Christie.
So, when it comes to breakthroughs, we have them every month, but this month you will find even more special. I know the information we have compiled will help you or someone you love live a better and healthier life.
No matter what your interest is, we do our very best to make sure we include something helpful and inspiring for every reader. And we also try to make certain we continue to promote balance in every area of your life.
I invite you to share your feedback. Send me or Executive Editor Jim Gibson an email or contact us on Facebook. We would love to hear from you.
JIM GIBSON executive editor jim@akersmediagroup.com
TIFFANY ROACH managing editor tiffany@akersmediagroup.com
JAMES COMBS staff writer james@akersmediagroup.com
SHEMIR WILES copy editor shemir@akersmediagroup.com
HEATHER TOOTLE office manager heather@akersmediagroup.com
contributing writers
TABATHA ARCARO-ORTIZ
RICHARD T. BOSSHARDT
KEVIN BOZADJIAN RUTH ANN BYRD AL CARDIELLO
TRACY DRAPER
MARY EDWARDS
CHRISTIE LOVE ETTER
FRED HILTON
MAEN HUSSEIN
MARJA MEHR
KATE R. SHEAROUSE
JANICE VIERA
ELLEN B. WILCOX
JAMIE EZRA MARK creative + content director jamie@akersmediagroup.com
CIERRA CHAPPELL production manager cierra@akersmediagroup.com
STEVEN J. CODRARO art director steve@akersmediagroup.com
JOSH CLARK senior graphic designer josh@akersmediagroup.com
ANTHONY CASTO graphic designer anthony@akersmediagroup.com
contributing designers KEVIN DANKO CALEB WAYNE JENSEN
FRED LOPEZ chief photographer fred@akersmediagroup.com
contributing photographer MORGAN ELLIS
TINA MORRISON administrative assistant tina@akersmediagroup.com
SALES // MARKETING
TIM MCRAE
vice president of sales and marketing tim@akersmediagroup.com
MIKE STEGALL senior marketing representative mike@akersmediagroup.com
HEIDI RESSLER marketing representative heidi@akersmediagroup.com
DISTRIBUTION
SCOTT HEGG distribution manager scott.hegg@akersmediagroup.com
Untilnext month
Until next month, live healthy.
Kendra Akers publishergoal is to provide you with the best quality publication, so your feedback is vital.
I have always been fascinated with science. I have never felt like a nerd, but I guess it is time I admitted I am one. Although I love all sports and have played everything imaginable, if I have a choice between watching a football game and watching a Science Channel show on particle physics, physics wins by a light-year. (Well… the Gators playing the Tide might be a toss-up.)
That said, this month’s issue is one of my all-time favorites. We are showcasing 20 amazing medical breakthroughs. Science, medicine, virtually miraculous procedures that use chemistry, physics, mathematics, and everything in between makes this my kind of issue... and I think you are going to love it, too.
Our hope is that by making our readers aware of these cutting-edge procedures and medications, someone somewhere will be able to utilize this knowledge for their own good. If you aren’t aware of what is out there and available for your healthcare needs, then it is entirely possible your physician may not be aware of it either.
With the busy lives they lead, I honestly can’t imagine any physician being able to keep up with all the wonderful technological advances that take place almost daily. So, if you see something here you believe might help you, do a little more research if needed and ask your physician if he or she is aware of the new procedures available.
The 20 advances we are showcasing are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the exponential increase in knowledge mankind is undergoing. We live in such a wonderful age… it makes you wonder just where we are heading. How will our sociological growth be affected by our technological advances? Where will our world be in 50, 100 or 1,000 years?
At the rate scientists are moving when it comes to tackling the age-old problem of aging, our grandchildren just might have a life span that would enable them to see what the next thousand may bring. Telomeres… the final frontier.
I have my own amazing medical breakthrough to tell you about. Following a flare-up with Meniere’s disease in March, I lost a substantial amount of hearing in my left ear. Only someone who has hearing loss can fully appreciate how it affects your everyday life. You begin to isolate yourself because you feel others tire of hearing you say, “What did you say?”
I am now the proud owner of a Beltone True 9 hearing aid, and it is nothing short of miraculous. I can hear.
My hearing loss left me with a certain range of sound that caused quite a bit of pain in my ear. This device filters out the loud and painful sounds, while enhancing what sensory hearing I have left. In some ways, I can now hear better than a healthy person. Believe me, an editor needs all the hearing he or she can get. No more muttering behind my back… I can hear just as good behind me as in front…
Digitize your life. Visit the Apple or Android app store today and download the Lake County Healthy Living online magazine app for your mobile device. For the best in enhanced magazine entertainment, join us online for the media experience of a lifetime.
Jim Gibson editorUntil next month— hold fast… Comments or questions for our editor? Please email jim@akersmediagroup.com.
TABATHA ARCARO-ORTIZ
Tabatha Arcaro-Ortiz received her bachelor’s degree in food science and human nutrition from the University of Florida and a master’s degree in nutrition and dietetics from Georgia State University. She is a clinical dietitian who has worked at Leesburg Regional Medical Center for the past 12 years. For nutritional counseling, please call 352.323.5641 to make an appointment with an LRMC outpatient dietitian or email Tabatha at tortiz@cfhalliance.org.
RICK BOSSHARDT, M.D., FACS
Rick Bosshardt, M.D., graduated from the University of Miami School of Medicine in 1978. He founded Bosshardt & Marzek Plastic Surgery Associates, Lake County’s first practice to provide full-time cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery services, in 1989.
KEVIN BOZADJIAN
Master stylist, colorist, and razor-cutting expert Kevin Bozadjian is renowned for his style and hair coloring artistry. Kevin, who has more than two decades of experience and training in both classic and current styles, practices his trade with great passion. Today, he can be found servicing a large, loyal client base at The Salon T. in Baylee Plaza at 16920 S. US Hwy 441 in Summerfield. Call 352.245.2000 or email kjbozcut@yahoo.com.
RICHARD L. BURGUET
Richard Burguet, B.A., M-Div., has been ordained in the Presbyterian Church in America for more than 30 years. He has served churches in South Carolina, Mississippi, Maryland, and Georgia. Richard is pastor of New Hope Presbyterian in Eustis and is co-author of Covenants Disciples Workbook. New Hope is at 19535 Eustis Airport Road, and on the web at www.newhopepca.com.
RUTH ANN BYRD
Ruth Ann Byrd, owner of Aesthetic Skin Solutions, is a licensed clinical aesthetician specializing in skin rejuvenation and treatments for sun damage, rosacea, and acne. She is also licensed in electrolysis, laser hair removal, and permanent makeup. Her advanced skin care treatments help individuals look their best at all ages by improving the health and appearance of their skin. She has practice locations in Leesburg and The Villages.
AL CARDIELLO
Al Cardiello has been in the fitness industry for more than 12 years. He is a certified personal trainer, who specializes in nutrition, exercise for seniors, and sports conditioning. Cardiello is also a competitive drug-free bodybuilder. He purchased his first gym in 1998 and currently owns Omni Fitness personal training studio, as well as Infinity Fitness and Medi Spa.
TRACY DRAPER
Tracy Draper is an AFAA certified personal trainer with more than 10 years of experience in the profession. Sports were a big part of her teen years. After having children, she rekindled her competitive fire and won titles in triathlons, aquabike, and cycling events in Central Florida. Visit her at www.TrainingWithTracy.net
MARY EDWARDS
Mary Edwards is a wife and mother to four young children, a business owner, and a blogger. She strives to teach others how to save money and improve their budgets. Mary also enjoys sharing her knowledge in community outreach programs and coupon classes. Mary is the owner and author at www.couponersunited.com.
FRED HILTON
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).
MAEN HUSSEIN, M.D.,
Maen Hussein, M.D., graduated from the University of Jordan School of Medicine in Amman, Jordan. He completed his training in internal medicine at a Brown University program in Rhode Island and his fellowship in hematology and medical oncology at Saint Louis University in Missouri. He is board certified in internal medicine, hematology, and medical oncology and has practiced with Lake County Oncology and Hematology for three years.
MARJA MEHR
Marja Mehr is a family and cosmetic dentist. She currently practices with her husband, Dr. Jon Mehr, at The Main Street Dentists located in downtown Leesburg since 1999. She has a BA from Furman University and DDS from Creighton University. For more information, please visit www.themainstreetdentists.com.
KATE R. SHEAROUSE
Kate Shearouse is the president and owner of Accounting Innovations, Inc. Accounting Innovations is a community-minded accounting firm committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in its client relationships. Kate is a graduate of the University of South Florida with a Masters in Accountancy Program and a CPA candidate. Please visit www.accountinginnovationsinc.com for more information.
JANICE VIERA
Janice Viera has been a registered dietitian for 20 years. She is currently clinical nutrition manager in the food and nutrition department for the Central Florida Health Alliance. Viera is a graduate of Northern Michigan University. She is a member of the American Dietetic Association and has worked in various nutrition roles at Leesburg Regional Medical Center and The Villages Health System.
ELLEN B. WILCOX
Ellen B. Wilcox is a graduate estate planning consultant. Educated at Gettysburg College, the University of Maryland, Paris, France, and Arizona State University, Ms. Wilcox brings more than 33 years of experience to her clients. She is president and CEO of Wilcox Wealth Management, a full service financial advisory company in Lady Lake. Ms. Wilcox may be reached at 352.259.1547.
RICK BOSSHARDT, M.D., FACS Plastic Surgeon
ROSANNE BRANDEBURG, MBA
Executive Director, Lake-Sumter Community College Foundation, Inc., Chairman, Lake County School Board
PATRICIA BURGOS
Environmental Program Manager Lake County Water Authority
RUTH ANN BYRD, LA, CME Aesthetic Skin Solutions
AL CARDIELLO
Certified Personal Trainer
KATHERINE COOK
Founder of the Leesburg Center for the Arts
ISAAC DEAS
Interfaith Chaplain for Cornerstone Hospice
LORI ESAREY, ARNP Total Nutrition Therapeutics
TERRI FECHTEL
Liaison for Suncoast/Omni Home Health
GREG FRESCOLN
Principal, First Academy-Leesburg
MAEN HUSSEIN, M.D.
Hematology, Oncology, Internal Medicine
SHERI HUTCHINSON
Public Information Officer, Community Outreach Manager, Lake County Health Department
CAROL MILLWATER
Executive Director, Lake-Sumter Medical Society
MANDY RICHARDSON
Marketing Manager, Mid-Florida Eye Center
ERIC ROUKEY
Physicians Consulting Group
B. E. THOMPSON
Director Of Development, Lifestream Behavioral Center
ELLEN WILCOX, GEPC
Wilcox Wealth Management
JEFF WITTMAN
Licensed Nutritionist, Owner, Lake Nutrition Centers
We have all been touched by memory and movement disorders. The Florida Case Manager Symposium will be held at Mission Inn Resort on October 12, allowing hospital case managers and social workers from throughout Central Florida to discuss and receive education on the unique challenges these disorders present to patients and families. Attendees can hear nationally recognized speakers in the field of case management and also network with peers and corporate sponsors throughout the day.
In addition, the Case Manager of the Year from each hospital will be recognized for his or her dedication to assisting patients and families. Proceeds from the event benefit the Dwight M. Cearley Scholarship Foundation for Families
Challenged by Memory and Movement Disorders. ■
Ghosts, vampires, and witches may be spooky, but the scariest aspects of Halloween can be reckless drivers, unsafe neighborhoods, and possibly toxic candy. Children are more likely to be hit by a car on Halloween than any other day of the year, according to Safe Kids USA, an organization committed to preventing accidental childhood injuries.
To make Halloween a hauntingly happy experience, make sure your young trick-or-treater follows these tips provided by the American Red Cross.
• Remember to bring a flashlight.
• Wear light-colored clothing so motorists can see you in the dark.
• Use face paint instead of masks. A mask covers your eyes.
• Walk on the sidewalks rather than streets. Always be on the lookout for motorists.
• Cross the street only at corners. Remember to look both ways.
• Use a glow stick instead of a candle. Wigs, capes, and costumes are flammable.
• When you’re finished trick-or-treating, allow an adult to thoroughly inspect your candy. ■
Ever tried walking a halfmile blindfolded? Feel like running 3.1 miles? What about walking a half-mile?
If any of these sound appealing to you, then be sure to participate in New Vision for Independence’s annual 5k/ Walk for New Vision event, which will be held October 27 at Lake-Sumter Community College. The 5k run around Silver Lake begins at 8a.m. and costs $25. The half-mile walk around the LSCC track begins at 8:05a.m. and costs $25. In the half-mile sensory walk,
participants will be blindfolded and escorted by a human guide while encountering sensory activities and obstacles. This event begins at 8:15a.m. and costs $5.
New Vision for Independence serves visually impaired and blind persons in Lake and Sumter counties. Visit www.newvisionfl.org to register for the event. ■
Are you tough enough to put your endurance level to the ultimate test? Then consider participating in the 22nd Annual Great Floridian Endurance Festival, which will be held October 20 at Waterfront Park in Clermont.
The triathlon will consist of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bicycle ride, and a 26.2-mile run. Other events will include an intermediate distance triathlon and an aqua bike (2.4-mile swim and 112-mile bicycle ride).
For more information, call Mark Lepow at 352.394.1320 or visit www. greatfloridian.com. ■
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We cannot stress enough the importance of self-examinations and annual mammograms because early detection is crucial in defeating this disease. Do not take our word for it. Consider these breast cancer statistics provided by breastcancer.org.
• One in eight women in the United States will develop invasive breast cancer during her lifetime.
• For women in the United States, breast cancer death rates are higher than those for any other cancer besides lung cancer.
Ready your Harley, dust off your Ducati, buff your BMW, or shine your Suzuki. The Ride for Children, which benefits Camp Boggy Creek, will take off with a roar on October 7. More than 1,000 motorcyclists will participate in a police-escorted ride from Daytona to Camp Boggy Creek in Eustis. There, bikers will enjoy both live and silent auctions, music, and a buffet lunch donated by Outback Steakhouse.
Since its inception in 1995, the Bruce Rossmeyer Ride for Children has raised more than $4 million for Camp Boggy Creek, which provides unique camp experiences for children with chronic or lifethreatening illnesses. For more information, please visit www. rideforchildren.com. ■
Want to know more about your diagnosis of asthma, emphysema, or chronic bronchitis? You should, because the first step in living with lung disease means learning about lung disease. Consider joining Better Breathers so you can interact with others who suffer from chronic respiratory disease. Better Breathers is a support group held at South Lake Hospital.
By talking with others, you can gain valuable insight into how to successfully manage your lung problem or simply share stories of support and hope. Most importantly, you know you are not battling lung disease alone. Classes will be held October 9, November 13, and December 11 at the National Training Center in Clermont. Cost is free.
For more information, call 352.241.7109. ■
• With the exception of skin cancer, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in the United States.
• About 85 percent of breast cancers occur in women who have no family history of breast cancer.
• The most significant risk factors for breast cancer are gender and age. ■
Helping Hands Outreach, a program of New Beginnings, celebrated its second-anniversary of serving Lake County residents who are in need. Since its inception, the program has served 11,115 families with more than 143,460 pounds of food. In addition, nearly 40,000 hot meals and countless clothes and shoes have been provided.
The program operates on Saturdays at the Winn-Dixie shopping plaza on South Hwy. 50 in Clermont. Recipients are provided with an on-site meal, bags of groceries, clothing, and social services information. “Helping Hands Outreach is a ministry of New Beginnings that partners with local churches and businesses to give people a hand up not a hand out,” says Communications Director Stephen Elmore. “We have so many families that might not be homeless, but they are struggling and at risk, and we want to help out.”
Anyone interested in donating food or volunteering can contact Sharon Pino at 352.404.6946. ■
About a year-and-a-half ago, I woke up one morning to a strange man in my bed. Startled by his vaguely familiar features, I closed my eyes and tried to remember where we had met.
“Um, Good morning,” he said huskily — seemingly as nervous as I was.
“Oh. Hi.” I managed to squeak out self-consciously while pulling the covers up to my chin.
I desperately tried to remember how much wine I had consumed the night before. I could have sworn I dozed off somewhere around my fourth sip. Oh. My. Goodness. Was it possible the children had conspired together and slipped me a roofie? I wasn’t even sure what a roofie was, but maybe they had fallen in with a rough crowd in their preschool Montessori class. Had I missed the signals? Was eating glue the new delinquent trend? Dang it — I knew I should have home schooled.
Here I was, a church-attending-mother-of-four in bed with a man I didn’t recognize. The entire situation was absurd and as awkward as Nancy Pelosi and Bill O’Reilly on a blind date… in a bed-shaped life raft. I prayed things didn’t turn violent.
“My name is James,” he offered by way of introduction and offered his hand.
James. Yes, okay, that name rang a bell. I timidly shook his hand — relieved to see he was
wearing a shirt. I tried not to be obvious as I glanced at his features, which (thankfully) were not unattractive. In fact, I found myself studying the brown and red stubble of his beard. He had an enviable natural brush of pinkness on his cheeks that would have saved any woman a bundle in blush. And speaking of blush, his light-filled blue eyes were….
Wait. I knew those eyes.
And then it all started coming back to me. There had been a wedding — a marriage? How long ago? Ten years? Slowly I began to remember those eyes laughing, the two of us driving across the country together; I remembered meals, runs, conversations, books, and lazy mornings in bed. And then in a haze, I remembered I was pregnant with triplets — our beautiful children — and then the children were born and then another baby right after and then… nothing.
“Oh my gosh, are we married!?” I gasped.
And then he said, “Don’t be ridiculous, you are far too beautiful and sexy and your breath smells like lavender scented vanilla in the morning.”
Okay, so that’s not exactly what he said. What he really said was, “Guess so. Want some coffee?”
Well, it turns out (after some coffee) we realized we did know one another. In fact, we had been married for more than a decade.
And the reason his eyes were so familiar was because all four of my children wear a variation of them. But more, his eyes were so familiar because there was a time when I actually looked into them.
Evidently, it had just been a while. Roughly three-and-a-half years, if you want to get technical. That’s four kids under the age of two, and then under the age of three, and under the age of four, if you really want to nail it down. And like in The Hangover, neither of us really remembers what went down over the course of those three-and-a-half years, but I do know I still get nauseated at the scent of diaper cream. I do know James has to sit down, put his head between his legs, and breathe deeply if he walks too close to the pregnancy test or diaper aisle. Fortunately we have 20,000 digital photos on our computer to jar our memory.
I read from books and articles and hear from therapists and church-speak all about how to make my marriage last. Evidently, I have to “work at it.” That is, unless I want to end up like a Kardashian or (more relevantly) Jon & Kate Plus 8, I have to make my marriage a priority and carve out “date nights,” and “couch time,” and “romantic getaways.”
I would hear the divorce statistics and think, man, we are so screwed, because I was doing good to send a daily text to acknowledge I was still alive —
and that’s only if I had remembered to charge my phone, or it hadn’t died a death by drool. Babymoon to Napa? Yeah, never going to happen.
And I’m sure all of this advice for a lasting marriage is wellintentioned and probably right, but it is not what helps me when my husband is gone on a four-day trip and all my kids have the stomach flu, or worse — bad attitudes.
What I hold on to is the fact that eventually the season will change. It has to. Life may feel like October in Florida — a seemingly endless barrage of heat stroke after heat stroke, and deodorant-caked armpits, but the oppression will end. Whining, complaining, worrying that you and your spouse aren’t getting enough “alone time” is like trying to change the weather by wearing sweaters and Uggs in 90-degree heat. It’s insane and unflattering. The season is what it is — even if that means hard work and less sex and an exhausted high-five out the door. We can’t control it, we just live it out — the best that we can.
We live hopefully and look forward to a time when the temperature will dip a little and the kids will start sleeping in past 5:30a.m. — a time when we will look over shyly at the person in bed next to us and introduce ourselves. And we won’t need to be startled because after all, who wouldn’t recognize the lightfilled eyes of a partner in life?
Being frightened was never high on my list of favorite things to do. When I was a little kid, one of the first movies I ever saw was The Wizard of Oz. Unfortunately, the Wicked Witch of the West and her flying monkeys scared the beejeebers out me. When they came on the screen, I would duck down behind the seats in front of me until they were gone. I assumed the same position later in multiple Disney movies when the witch du jour appeared. I also avoid tall buildings, hairy spiders, and angry possums.
I stay away from roller-coasters and other scary rides, too. When we first took our kids to Disney World, it was good old mom who took the boys on Space Mountain, not me. I stood guard outside to protect everyone in case some flying monkeys showed up.
Still, I survived these multiple frights and have avoided being scared to death. The worrisome thing is that you actually can be scared to death.
When asked by Scientific American if you can be scared to death, Dr. Martin A. Samuels’ answer was emphatic: “Absolutely, no question about it.” Dr. Samuels is chairman of the neurology department at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, and he said that a scare triggers a fight-or-flight response in humans that causes the release of adrenaline. In large amounts, adrenaline can damage internal organs — including the heart. “In most cases, it is probably ventricular fibrillation that causes these sudden deaths from fear,” Dr. Samuels says. Ventricular fibrillations cause the lower chambers of the heart to vibrate in a way that hampers their ability to deliver blood to the body.
While you can conceivably die from a big scare, it would most likely be “someone with a preexisting condition, a weak heart, or an aneurysm in the brain,” says Brian J. Hurlbut, who teaches psychology at Southern Connecticut State University.
There have actually been cases when criminals were charged with murder because their victims died from heart attacks. In 2009, a 21-year-old man was sentenced to life in prison after a 79-year-old North Carolina grandmother died of a heart attack when she found the man hiding in her house after his failed bank robbery.
Chances are still pretty good that you will be safe when various scary things appear or go bump in the night this Halloween. However, to be safe, if a trick-or-treater shows up at your house dressed like a flying monkey, you might want to hide behind the door.
There are few things Jack Schmid enjoys more than bowling. Unfortunately, participating in his favorite sport became increasingly painful and difficult after he developed tendinitis in his right foot.
Having heard numerous compliments from family and friends concerning Tri-County Podiatry, Jack did not hesitate to make an appointment. Dr. Johnny Wu quickly diagnosed the problem and had him undergo physical therapy. Jack’s physical therapist had him perform a variety of exercises to help relieve the pain.
“After three or four sessions of physical therapy my feet felt great,” he says. “I was no longer walking with a limp. I have felt great ever since. Dr. Wu and his physical therapy team were very professional, efficient, and friendly. I would highly recommend Tri-County Podiatry to anyone with foot problems. The treatment you receive there is second to none.”
A laser beam of radiation obliterating a brain tumor may seem like a scene from an Isaac Asimov short story, but this concept is much more than science fiction. Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) is the cutting edge when it comes to operating deep within the mysterious recesses of the human brain.
Villages’ resident Judy Holbrook has experienced the future of brain tumor surgery firsthand, and it has given her a second chance at life.
Judy, who ironically lost her first husband to esophageal cancer that had metastasized to his brain in 2001, was diagnosed with kidney cancer in October 2008. In an effort to halt the spread of the disease, doctors at Shands Teaching Hospital in Gainesville removed her right kidney in January 2009. She remained cancer-free until a routine three-month CT scan exactly one year later revealed new tumors in her left kidney and in the chest cavity outside her lungs. Following treatment in a controlled experimental drug study and conventional chemotherapy, Judy thought she and her doctors finally had the cancer in her body under control.
“We were on vacation, and I suddenly noticed I could no longer understand what I was reading,” Judy says. “I am a big reader, and suddenly I just couldn’t put together the words on a page and understand what they meant. Very quickly after that I also noticed I could no longer say what I wanted to say.” Her husband, Tom, called her physician at Moffit, Dr. Mayer Fishman, and the doctor immediately ordered a CT scan of her head. The scan revealed a small tumor near the center of her brain.
Dr. Fishman determined it was a metastatic kidney tumor. Knowing conventional surgery could leave lasting adverse physiological effects, Dr. Fishman decided on SRS.
“This type of radiosurgery is a highly precise form of radiation therapy initially developed to treat small brain tumors and functional abnormalities in the brain,” says Dr. Prakash Chinnaiyan, assistant member of the Department of Experimental Therapeutics SRS in Radiation Oncology at Moffitt. “Highly precise radiation, where delivery is accurate within one to two millimeters, allows advanced radiation treatment, which permits maximum dose delivery within the target while minimizing dose to the surrounding healthy tissue. The goal is to deliver doses that will destroy the tumor and achieve permanent local control. In effect, it is surgery without a scalpel.”
Judy was fitted with a “thermoplastic mask” that held her firmly in place while five radiation lasers were fired simultaneously at the tumor deep inside her brain. According to Dr. Chinnaiyan, if you fired only one laser at 100 percent power at the tumor, it would damage all the tissue it passed through on its way to the tumor site. Using five lasers at 20 percent power from various angles, it enables the beams to meet at the exact site of the tumor and only then deliver 100 percent of its strength. None of the healthy tissue in the brain is damaged, only the tumor itself. This is why it was imperative that Judy be strapped into a position where her body could not move more than one millimeter in any direction. The lasers had to meet at precisely the right spot.
“However, what makes radiosurgery unique,” Dr. Chinnaiyan says, “is that each of the five beams are actually arcs, meaning they are emitting small doses of radiation while rotating around the patient. So, actually, it results in nearly 1,000 low-energy radiation beams that focus on the tumor, which results in a very high dose of radiation where you want it (the tumor) and low doses where you don’t (surrounding normal tissue).”
The procedure was over in 20 minutes, and Judy’s only restriction was that she couldn’t drive home. The effects were immediate. Judy’s problems with word comprehension and speech disappeared, but she was left speechless one more time when she heard the doctor’s follow-up report.
“Following the surgery I went back for an MRI,” she says. “The radiologist described the changes as ‘dramatic.’ The tumor had disappeared, the fluid around it had disappeared, and the blood vessels feeding it had disappeared.” The change was so dramatic that they double checked Judy’s name along with her previous MRI to make sure they were dealing with the same patient.
According to Dr. Chinnaiyan, SRS is now being used for small malignant and benign tumors (less that 3 centimeters in diameter), including meningiomas and acoustic neuromas, and arteriovenous malformations. He says this type of technology is also being used to treat lung, pancreatic, and liver cancer and tumors that have spread to the spine. In the future it will be used for large tumors, including ones that are not otherwise surgically accessible using conventional means.
We’ve all suffered depression at one time or another, but for some unfortunate individuals, depression is a way of life. Major depressive disorder (MDD), bipolar disorder (BD), and treatment resistant depression (TRD) affect millions of persons worldwide. For many suffering from these disabling diseases, each day is an endless spiral of hopelessness and despair.
Many find some relief from medications such as Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil, and other antidepressants that have become household names… but for those persons afflicted with TRD, no matter what treatment doctors have tried, from cognitive therapy to medication to electroconvulsive therapy,
nothing has been able to lift this veil of darkness — until now.
Deep brain stimulation has been used for years to treat diseases such as Parkinson’s, dystonia, uncontrollable tremor and to alleviate chronic pain. Doctors have now discovered that for some persons it is a miracle cure for chronic depression. Single-blind, placebocontrolled studies have shown that electrical stimulation of the subcallosal cingulate and the nucleus accumbens alleviates almost all symptoms of chronic MDD and hard-to-treat BD for certain patients.
In most cases, four insulated electrodes are implanted deep into the brain. They come out
the top of the head, run under the scalp, and behind the ear and then connect to a small impulse generator implanted near the collarbone. Electrical impulses, either continuous or pulsed, then stimulate the area or areas of the brain where the electrodes end. Scientists still aren’t sure as to why this mechanism works to alleviate symptoms of physical and mental illness, but in some instances the results are being hailed as astounding.
Different studies are producing differing results and while deep brain stimulation isn’t a cure for depression, it looks to be a promising weapon in the ever-growing arsenal used to fight mental illness.
There is no cure for diabetes, so the Centers for Disease Control have reason for concern because 26 million children and adults have diabetes and about 70 million have pre-diabetes. Medications can help most people regulate their bodies’ sugar levels, but it seems that a “paradigm shift” is taking place with a new class of drugs called sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 protein inhibitors or SGLT2 inhibitors. This new class of drugs, like Dapagliflozine, treats diabetes in an entirely different way by causing excess sugar to be excreted in the urine.
According to an article published online in Pharma Times by Kevin Grogan, recent research trials have shown that because SGLT2 inhibitors work independently from insulin, this class of new drugs would be easier to combine with others. Grogan says research also shows “the drug provided substantial and sustained glycemic improvements in adults with Type 2 diabetes and was generally well-tolerated.” A great side effect of this new treatment is calories are lost during urination, meaning SGLT2 contributes to weight loss.
There are clinical trials for this class of drugs both here in the U.S. and abroad, but they still face approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). A decision on whether or not to approve Dapagliflozine is expected in October.
SOURCE: Cleveland Clinic http://www.clevelandclinic.org/innovations/summit/top-ten-innovations/2012/one.html PharmTimes http://www.pharmatimes.com/article/12-06-12/SGLT2_inhibitors_under_spotlight_at_US_diabetes_meeting.aspx: Gebel http://forecast.diabetes.org/magazine/only-online/new-drug-faces-a-roadblock (Accessed August 23, 2012)
What happens when a patient codes on our favorite TV medical drama? They call in the crash cart carrying the defibrillator and all sorts of medications. You sit on the edge of your seat wondering if they will get the person’s heart beating in the precious seconds it takes before their brain is damaged irreparably, or they die.
OBoston Children’s Hospital research scientists report they have found what may be the newest addition to crash carts in hospitals, ambulances, and medical transport helicopters. This discovery will assist
medical personnel treating patients in instances of catastrophic respiratory failure. They have designed oxygencarrying micro-particles that can be injected into a patient’s bloodstream. These particles keep all the cells in the body oxygenated for up to one-halfhour without the patient taking a single breath. By injecting this new miracle elixir, doctors buy themselves time to diagnose and treat patients who have quit breathing and are at risk of brain damage or death.
Boston Children’s Hospital, and his colleagues discovered a way to suspend oxygen in fatty particles made up of layers of lipids that can hold 3–4 times the oxygen of a red blood cell. Tests completed on animals showed rabbits injected with these oxygen-carrying particles were able to survive for 15 minutes with their windpipes completely blocked. This breakthrough has the potential to save millions of human lives each year.
JohnKheir, M.D., at the Department of Cardiology at
Source: http://www.newser.com/story/149114/injections-keep-peoplebreathing-in-emergencies.html; http://gizmodo.com/5921868/scientistsinvent-particles-that-will-let-you-live-without-breathing (Accessed September 10, 2012)
Let there be light. Technology is shining its light into the land of perpetual darkness as researchers seek pathways to bring sight to the blind.
The most innovative idea comes from Japanese designer Xu Guang-suo. Their “sonar glasses” are fitted with sensors that detect solid objects in front of, beside, and behind the person wearing them. This information is transformed into auditory cues (different ranges of sound) that enable the wearer to “see” what is in front of him or her.
This version of smart glasses also has a microphone that enables the wearer to communicate with the glasses and ask them questions such as, “Is the stop light green?”
Another concept undergoing clinical trial is a pair of glasses created by Joseph Rizzo III, the director of neuro-ophthalmology at Mass Eye and Ear.
Dr. Rizzo’s smart glasses consist of a camera that not only maps out objects in front of and beside the wearer but can also read signs using text character recognition software. Data is fed into a GPS-enabled processor, and the wearer “sees” their surroundings through auditory signals sent to speakers on the earpiece and also through small vibrating devices placed behind the ear and near the temple.
SOURCE: Navigation Glasses For The Blind Help Visually Impaired See Through Sound; http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/06/15/navigation-glasses-for-the-blind_n_1599573.html; http://www.bostonmagazine.com/articles/2011/11/top-docs-14-medical-breakthroughs/10/ (Accessed August 30, 2012)
Andreas Vesalius dissects human corpses, revealing detailed information about human anatomy and correcting earlier views. Vesalius believes understanding anatomy is crucial to performing surgery, so he dissects human corpses himself (unusual for the time). His anatomical charts detailing the blood and nervous systems, produced as a reference aid for his students, are copied so often that he is forced to publish them to protect their accuracy. In 1543, he publishes De Humani Corporis Fabrica, transforming the subject of anatomy.
If the tin man in the Wizard of Oz had only known about perfusion decellularization he wouldn’t have had to settle for a “ticker”; he could have had a real heart made from the DNA in his own cells (tin men do have DNA, right?).
Perfusion decellularization has the potential to make organ transplant practically as simple as taking out your appendix. No more waiting lists, no more waiting for one person to die so another may live, no more organ rejection, and no more of the major side-effects that come with antirejection medications makes this novel idea a major medical breakthrough.
In perfusion decellularization, an organ, such as a heart taken from the cadaver of a person deceased from natural causes, can be perfused with a mild detergent. This is called micromatrix perfusion, and it involves funneling the
William Harvey discovers blood circulates through the body and names the heart as the organ responsible for pumping the blood. His groundbreaking work, Anatomical Essay on the Motion of the Heart and Blood in Animals published in 1628, lays the groundwork for modern physiology.
detergent through the artery that formerly supplied blood to the organ. The detergent flows throughout all the capillaries of the vascular system and “cleanses” each cell, removing all the components from inside the cell membrane. This material is then flushed out through the veins leaving behind the original cellular architecture of the organ.
This “scaffold” is then recellularized with a mixture of vascular and organ specific regenerative cells from a donor (you). This mixture enters each cell, and the “new” organ is put into a bioreactor where it grows and matures. The mature organ, created with your DNA inside, is then transplanted into your body with no organ rejection whatsoever.
There is still a lot of work to be done in the area of perfusion decellularization, but it just could be possible that one day even the scarecrow could wind up with a real scarecrow brain.
SOURCES: Perfusion-decellularized matrix: using nature’s platform to engineer a bioartificial heart; http://www.nature.com/nm/journal/v14/ n2/abs/nm1684.html: Perfusion Decellularizaton; http://midwestresearchswine.com/productsservices/midwest-porcine-recovery/perfusiondecellularization/ (Accessed August 25, 2012)
Edward Jenner, an English country doctor, performs the first vaccination against smallpox after discovering inoculation with cowpox provides immunity. Jenner formulated his theory after noticing patients who work with cattle and had come into contact with cowpox never came down with smallpox when an epidemic ravaged the countryside in 1788.
The American Heart Association reports high blood pressure threatens the lives of 78 million people in the U.S. and an additional 27 million will be added to that number by 2030. Half of all Americans over age 50 are hypertensive (pressure at 140/90 or above) and by age 75, three-fourths will suffer from elevated blood pressure.
High blood pressure is called the silent killer and is a main cause of heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure. Most people respond to medication and/or diet and lifestyle changes, but some are drug-resistant. Many of these may take up to six medications at any given time in an effort to keep the disease under control.
For those persons suffering from drug-resistant hypertension, there is a new therapy called renal denervation. How does it work?
The kidneys play an integral part in maintaining a constant acceptable blood pressure. Whenever we are stressed or in
danger, nerves in the kidneys signal the adrenal glands to release adrenaline into our bloodstream. Adrenaline causes our blood vessels to constrict, thereby raising our blood pressure. In today’s stress-fi lled world, this “fight or fl ight” response doesn’t turn off, even when we are not in imminent danger. This may lead to constant and uncontrollable high blood pressure.
Researchers have found that by damaging the renal nerves, they can slow down the signals from the kidneys to the adrenal glands, thereby lowering blood pressure. Doctors insert a catheter into blood vessels in the groin, thread it up into the kidneys, and ablate a portion of the renal nerves.
Renal denervation has been shown to cause significant drops in blood pressure and shows promise in treating chronic kidney disease, insulin resistance, and heart failure.
SOURCE: Huffington Post http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/05/29/hypertension-destroy-nerves-high-blood-pressure_n_1552375.html Cleveland Clinic: http://www.clevelandclinic.org/innovations/summit/top-ten-innovations/2012/one.html (Accessed August 21, 2012)
Every cell’s double helix of DNA is made up of 20,000–25,000 genes, which make up the human genome. The Human Genome Project worked for 13 years using the sequencing method invented in 1975 by Frederick Sanger (and $2.7 billion) to map the human genome sequence — so science could uncover the “genetic errors that trigger disease.” To what end? Genome sequencing will eventually become a part of everyone’s medical care, allowing doctors to determine exactly why an individual is ill and in some cases, head off disease before the first symptoms appear. This could eventually lead to “customized” medical care for every individual on Earth.
Even it is
Even though it is cost-prohibitive at the present time to gene sequence each individual person, new techniques in sequencing now being created will make it much more affordable in the near future.
SOURCE: Cleveland http://www.cleveland
SOURCE: Cleveland Clinic http://www.clevelandclinic.org/innovations/summit/top-ten-innovations/2012/one.html
French chemist Louis Pasteur finds certain microbes are disease-causing agents. At the time, the origin of diseases such as cholera, anthrax, and rabies is a mystery. Pasteur formulates a germ theory, postulating that these diseases and many others are caused by bacteria. Pasteur is called the “father of bacteriology” because his work leads to a new branch of scientific study.
Several scientists discover certain chemicals can be used as anesthetics, making it possible to perform surgery without pain. The earliest experiments with anesthetic agents — nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and sulfuric ether — are performed mainly by 19th-century dentists.
One of the great pitfalls physicians encounter when prescribing injectable medications to patients is that of compliance. People simply don’t want to stick themselves with a needle each and every day. MIT professors Robert Langer and Michael Cima have discovered a novel way to overcome the problem — an implantable chip.
The chip, manufactured by the company MicroCHIPS, is implanted under the skin and when prompted remotely, either by the patient or the doctor, releases whatever drug it is programmed to release into the body of the patient.
The chip was success-
fully tested on seven women using the osteoporosis drug teriparatide. Results showed the drug maintained its efficacy and was more reliable in dosage amounts than if the women had injected themselves manually.
The medication is contained in small reservoirs “about the size of a pinprick” that are capped with a layer of platinum and titanium. The patient or physician sends a radio signal to the chip through a small handheld transceiver that initiates a small electric current which melts the metal cap, releasing the medication into the body.
At the present time, the transceivers only work at a distance of several inches, but Langer and Cima foresee
Targeted therapy is the new kid on the block when it comes to destroying cancerous tumors throughout the human body. Though in the early stages of development, they show great promise and have proven to be less toxic to healthy tissue than the standard therapies, chemotherapy, and radiation.
Molecular targeted therapy involves a group of medications that block or interfere with the growth of cancerous tumors. They do this in several different ways.
Some medications signal cancer cells to stop the uncontrolled growth that characterizes a tumor and then initiate aptosis, or cell death. Some carry toxic substances directly into the cancer cells, and this stimulates the body’s own natural
Wilhelm Roentgen accidentally discovers X-rays as he conducts experiments with the radiation from cathode rays (electrons). He notices the rays are able to penetrate opaque black paper wrapped around a cathode ray tube, causing a nearby table to glow with florescence. His discovery revolutionizes physics and medicine, earning him the first-ever Nobel Prize for physics in 1901.
the day when they will work over great distances, allowing physicians to control patient dosages from their office or anywhere in the world.
There are practically no limits to what the chips can achieve, either in the number of dosages or number of drug types contained on each chip.
MicroCHIPS recently developed a chip that can detect blood glucose levels. This device coupled with a chip programmed to dispense insulin could mean diabetics would no longer have to monitor their blood sugar levels and inject themselves when blood sugar levels rise. The chip could automatically dispense insulin when needed and in exactly the right amounts.
immune system to destroy the then-toxic cancer cells. Yet others turn on the cancer cells’ own aptosis mechanism, therby signaling each cell to self-destruct.
So far, the Food and Drug Administration has approved several drugs for targeted therapy. Some of the cancers that can be treated with this type of therapy include: certain types of breast cancer (significantly advanced metastatic breast cancer), some types of leukemia (significantly acute lymphoblastic leukemia), non-small cell lung cancer, squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck, certain cases of colorectal cancer, some pancreatic cancer, advanced renal cell carcinoma, kidney cancer, advanced cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, and others.
SOURCE: Targeted Cancer Therapies; http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Therapy/targeted (Accessed August 30, 2012)
Frederick Hopkins and others discover some diseases are caused by deficiencies of certain nutrients, later called vitamins. Through feeding experiments with laboratory animals, Hopkins concludes these “accessory food factors” are essential to health.
Many people, especially parents of young athletes, may be unaware sportsrelated concussions are second only to car accidents as the leading cause of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Common school-age sports activities such as football, soccer, and wrestling carry a high risk of head injury — even when protective headgear is used.
Another important, but little known fact, is a person does not have to lose consciousness to have a concussion. Also, returning to the game too soon, athletes can suffer what’s called second impact syndrome, which can possibly lead to death.
This has become a major medical concern, especially with the recent media focus on older athletes having early-onset dementia due to repeated undetected TBI. One innovation is the Concussion Management System, which provides a baseline assessment of cognitive and motor skills at the beginning of a season. The young athlete wears a special mouthpiece during the season that monitors the severity of each impact he or she experiences. Bluetooth technology then records and reports the data to coaches and physicians.
If a child suffers a head injury, retesting of cognitive and motor skills lets sports physicians know when it is safe for them to return to sports activities.
In an effort to protect Lake County schoolchildren from the debilitating effects of head injuries, the county school
system has implemented the ImPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) software program. Carol Kneller, manager of sports medicine and human performance for the National Training Center in Clermont, explains athletic trainers complete a process to be certified to perform the ImPACT baseline assessment with students, re-test after suspected injury, and evaluate the data received to decide when an athlete needs further medical attention or can return to the field. The online cognitive assessment is not an IQ test, but an interactive 25-minute evaluation. The responses and response times result in a baseline number that can be used throughout an athlete’s life, not simply in high school sports programs.
Trish Highland, the district athletic director for Lake County Schools, began working with the ImPACT program in Orange County. “Kids are bigger, faster, and stronger but their brains are so tender — any impact disturbs the function whether in lacrosse, soccer, or even swimming, golf, or baseball. Evidence of injury happens every day, but we can do something to help our kids.”
She works with Dr. Michael Ray of the National Training Center (NTC) Sports Medicine Institute Foundation, who she says has been the catalyst in connecting high school athletic trainers with local neurologists and Arnold Palmer Hospital for follow-up care as needed.
SOURCE: NTC; http://www.usantc.com/: ImPACT; http://www.impacttest.com/: http:// www.clevelandclinic.org/innovations/summit/top-ten-innovations/2012/one.html (Accessed August 13, 2012)
Austrian biologist Karl Landsteiner and his group discover four blood groups and develop a system of classification. Knowledge of the different blood types is crucial to performing safe blood transfusions, now a common practice.
Frederick Banting and his colleagues discover the hormone insulin, which helps balance blood sugar levels in diabetes patients and allows them to live normal lives. Before insulin, diabetes meant a slow and certain death.
“This low-dose radiation screening has the potential to save 1 of every 5 patients who are at high risk for lung cancer,” says Maen Hussein, M.D., of Florida Cancer Specialists. “This protocol could do for lung cancer what mammograms have done for breast cancer.”
He explains in the fi rst week of offering spiral CT scanning, 40 of his patients qualified for the procedure. The protocol is for patients to receive the screening CT every year for three years if they are 55–74 years old, have been one pack-a-day smokers for 30 years, or smoked two packs for 15 years, or who have quit no more than 15 years ago. “This screening tool is one way we work on prevention of cancer to prolong life,” says Dr. Hussein.
The Cleveland Clinic (CC) reports more Americans ages 45–75 will die of lung cancer than “from breast, prostate, colon, and pancreatic cancers combined” because there is no effective screening method for early detection. And only 15 percent of lung cancer patients are alive after five years of diagnosis because by the time of detection, the cancer has already spread throughout the body.
Alexander Fleming discovers penicillin, then Howard Florey and Boris Chain isolate and purify the compound, producing the first antibiotic. Fleming’s discovery comes completely by accident when he notices mold has killed a bacteria sample in a petri dish that is languishing under a pile in his lab’s sink. Fleming isolates a sample of the mold and identifies it as Penicillium notatum. With controlled experimentation, Florey and Chain later find the compound cures mice with bacterial infections.
“All that has changed now with the introduction of lowradiation-dose spiral computed tomography (spiral CT). This high-tech scan generates a series of detailed cross-section images of the lungs that are used to create a three-dimensional image. These scans cannot only identify tumors earlier but also spot them when the tumors are smaller and more treatable by surgery,” says the CC.
The National Cancer Institute sponsored the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST), which provided either a spiral CT or a standard chest X-ray once a year for three years for 53,000 men and women between the age of 55 and 74. Participants also were followed for five years after the screening years.
“The NLST results were very surprising, significant, and potentially game changing for the 7 million Americans who are heavy smokers and the 94 million current and former smokers. The study reports 20 percent fewer lunch cancer deaths among older, current, or former heavy smokers screened with CT compared with chest X-ray,” says the CC.
SOURCE: Cleveland Clinic http://www.clevelandclinic.org/innovations/summit/top-ten-innovations/2012/one.html (Accessed August 23, 2012)
Gerhard Domagk discovers Prontosil, an orange-red dye, cures infections caused by the common bacteria streptococci. The finding opens the door to the synthesis of chemotherapeutic drugs (or “wonder drugs”) and sulfa drugs in particular.
Dengue fever affects 50–100 million people each year. This sometimes fatal tropical virus has no vaccine, and there is no cure for the disease once a person is infected. It is spread almost exclusively by the bite of the female Aedes Aegypti mosquito. This mosquito breeds in open water containers and prefers the blood of human hosts over other animals. Once a mosquito becomes infected with the dengue virus (which is harmless to the mosquito), it will be infected for its lifetime and can infect a human with only one bite.
In 2009 and 2010, there were approximately 100 cases of dengue fever reported in the Florida Keys. In order to avert an epidemic, local mosquito control efforts shifted into high gear, and the danger seems to have passed — for now. With cases on the rise in nearby tropical islands, officials believe another, and possibly more virulent, outbreak is inevitable.
Oxitec, a British biotech company, thinks they have found a way to stop the spread of dengue fever and other mosquito-borne dis-
eases: genetically modified mosquitos.
Using advanced genetics, Oxitec has created genetically engineered (GE) male Aedes Aegypti mosquitos that can be released into the wild. The males have an autocidal gene, which means once they mate with a female in the wild the offspring produced do not survive.
Nature Biotechnology recently published a study showing an 80 percent decline in the Aedes Aegypti population in the Grand Cayman Islands after 3 million sterile genetically modified male Oxitec mosquitos were released there in 2009.
Oxitec does not claim their GE mosquitos will wipe out Dengue fever; they simply assert that they can successfully lower the population of female Aedes Aegypti mosquitos and thereby reduce the chances of a person being bitten by an infected insect. The idea of genetically modified insects has created a firestorm of controversy, and it will be left up the scientific community to verify the safety and efficacy of the concept.
Now that’s a mouthful… in more ways than one. DRACO is one of the first successful attempts to produce broad-spectrum antiviral medications that kill a multitude of viruses.
How does this class of antiviral medications work? In layman’s terms, these drugs can differentiate between healthy human cells and infected viral cells that are replicating within the body. Once it recognizes the viral cells, it enters the cell and programs it to commit suicide without further replication. Game over.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology senior staff scientist Todd Rider created this novel approach and DRACOs have proven effective against all the viruses they have been tested against thus far. The list includes polio, dengue fever, several hemorrhagic fever viruses, adenoviruses (respiratory system), H1N1 influenza (human, avian, and swine influenza), and rhinoviruses (yes, the common cold).
Scientists know more tests have to be performed to prove both its efficacy and its safety but theorize that this new drug has the potential to eventually treat all the world’s viruses… even AIDS, Ebola, SARS, hepatitis, and other emerging viruses that undergo constant mutation.
Although its actual full-scale production could be years away, the scientific world is abuzz about DRACO. A pill to cure many of the world’s most endemic viral diseases… and flu and the common cold? Now that truly is a mouthful.
Harold Varmus and Michael Bishop discover oncogenes — normal genes that control growth in every living cell but can contribute to converting normal cells into cancer cells if mutated or present in abnormally high amounts. Varmus and Bishop worked from the theory that the growth of cancerous cells does not occur as the result of an invasion from outside the cell but as a result of mutations possibly aggravated by environmental toxins such as radiation or smoke.
Competing scientists Robert Gallo and Luc Montagnier separately discover a new retrovirus later dubbed HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), and identify it as the causative agent of AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome).
Source: The Science Channel 100 Greatest Discoveries: Medical; http://science.discovery.com/ convergence/100discoveries/big100/medicine.html: Reprint by permission (Accessed March 27, 2012)
The LenSx® Laser – the latest in computerguided precision for cataract surgery.
Cataracts can affect anyone of any age, especially people over 50. Left untreated, cataracts can cause blindness. Now, the experienced doctors of Lake Eye Associates can remove cataracts more quickly and safely than ever before, with little or no downtime.
As Lake County’s most advanced provider of cataract surgery, we are the 1st to offer the revolutionary LenSx® laser cataract surgery. This bladeless procedure is the most accurate cataract surgery system ever created, and our surgeons are the only area specialists to offer it.
We also utilize today’s finest intraocular lens implants including ReSTOR ® and Toric ®, as well as TECNIS ®, which eliminate cataracts, vision problems and glare – even astigmatism – so effectively that 9 out of 10 patients can stop using glasses altogether, even at night.
Call to schedule an appointment or visit us online to learn more.
Scan the code to read more about the new LenSx® refractive laser surgery – the safest, quickest, most advanced cataract procedure.
SHELBY L. TERPSTRA, DO MARK J. VOCCI, MD SCOTT R. WEHRLY, MD SCOT C. HOLMAN, MD
“Our daughter Tracie Lemasters was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1994. After intensive rounds of chemotherapy and radiation treatments, we all thought she had it beat.” Tracie went on with her life, giving birth to her beautiful daughter Monica in 1996. In 2004, Tracie became pregnant again and began having unusual symptoms, which doctors attributed to the pregnancy. Two weeks after delivering our grandson Brice and following further testing, her physician discovered Tracie’s breast cancer had metastasized throughout her body. At only 37 years of age, with an 8-yearold daughter and a 2-week-old son, our beautiful daughter Tracie was told her condition was terminal.
“At the time, Tracie lived in Nashville, GA, and we moved her here to live with us in The Villages. In the past, my husband Gary and I had a very positive experience with hospice during the death of his best friend,
and we immediately called them to have Tracie evaluated. They accepted her instantly and began home care.
“The care they provided was beyond anything we could ever have expected. They weren’t just doctors, nurses, aides, and therapists — they became our friends.
“For example, even with excellent pain management, Tracie’s illness left her with muscle soreness. The massage therapist came in and massaged Tracie for two hours every day. As the disease progressed, (and I consider this to be a testament to the entire
staff’s dedication and consideration), the therapist even came on weekends — on her own personal time — to massage Tracie and help her maintain her quality of life. This same therapist even took the time to purchase gifts for Monica with her own money. That is more than dedication — that is compassion and friendship.
“Cornerstone Hospice’s homecare program allowed Tracie to live at home with us and her children. I cannot express how wonderful that time was for all of us. We sat up late and reminisced about our lives together and shared our innermost thoughts and feelings. When Tracie could no longer hold Brice to feed him, Gary and I would get up with her to assist in the feeding, and then we would all sit in our living room and talk late into the night.
“The entire hospice staff who came to our home were all so wonderful: Tracie’s unwavering faith in God
“The care they provided was beyond anything we could ever have expected. They weren’t just doctors, nurses, aides, and therapists — they became our friends.”
was such an important part of her life, and she looked forward to every visit from the chaplain. The nurses and aides went above and beyond what we would ever have expected. The social worker helped Tracie file for disability and medical financial assistance, taking care of the massive amount of paperwork and making sure everything went smoothly. They were all so professional and caring.
“Hospice also provided counseling for our entire family, including children’s counseling for Monica. They were so well-prepared to meet all our needs in such a hard time.
“We were all surprised when in late November the hospice physician examined Tracie and told her it was time for her to enter the Cornerstone Hospice House. They compassionately told us it was a matter of just a couple of weeks until the end, and we just couldn’t imagine that. At first Tracie was reluctant; she didn’t want to leave
“To me, Cornerstone Hospice stands as an oasis of individualized care for patients and families.”
—
LEAH JACKSON, CLINICAL LIAISONMonica and Brice. But she knew it was for the best and on December 2, 2004, we drove her to the hospice house.
“Imagine our surprise when the entire staff was on hand to welcome her. All the nurses, aides, the chaplain, even administrative workers were waiting to greet her and make her feel at home. That meant so much to Tracie and all of us.
“Once Tracie moved in, it became a way-of-life for us. We feel the great treatment they provided for our wonderful daughter helped prolong her life, as we shared another eight weeks with our beloved Tracie.
“During this time, Monica would come home from school each day and go straight to the hospice house, where she would sit in the common area and do her homework. Tracie’s brothers came from their faraway homes and spent time with their sister. Gary and I became fi xtures, making friends with the families of
other hospice clients and the amazing staff.
“Speaking of amazing staff, a group of nurses decided to take Tracie to lunch one day. Tracie only had pajamas to wear, as that had become her daily dress. She voiced her concern to me, and I told her it would be fi ne, her pajamas looked very nice. It made her day, and mine, when we arrived at the restaurant to fi nd every one of the nurses waiting for us — dressed in pajamas.
“This incident is a prime example of what hospice really is. They are friends helping us to understand and cope with death. They are companions helping us to live the remainder of our lives to the absolute fullest extent possible. They are angels guiding us into that which is beyond. God bless all our friends at Cornerstone Hospice for allowing us such a wonderful experience with our loving daughter.”
“Hospice patients are my passion. I wish the referral to Cornerstone Hospice would come sooner. We could truly improve the quality of life of the patients and families we serve.”
— LOU ACUFF, RN, CHPN, EXECUTIVE MANAGER ACCESS“Living is enjoying family and friends every day we are alive. Cornerstone Hospice allows us to do everything we can to ensure this for our patients and their families.”
— JAN RUSSELL, CLINICAL LIAISONFACILITY COORDINATOR“I am passionate about telling people they are entitled to at least six months of great care with us; not just a few days! Cornerstone Hospice took care of my mom 16 years ago, and I was so impressed that I knew I would work for hospice one day. Educating people and helping them through a difficult time is my gift to them. I love having a “Hospice Heart”!”
— LOLITA “LITA” SERGIO, RN, CLINICAL LIAISON
“I often meet those who have been touched by Cornerstone Hospice when we assisted a family member. I am appreciative and deeply moved as they share their stories of how our staff blessed their lives and enhanced their loved ones’ final journey. I feel honored to represent this organization in the community.”
— CHERYL RUMBLEY, COMMUNITY RELATIONS COORDINATORIsn’t hospice just for the last few days or weeks of life?
No. There is a minimum of six months of hospice care. Cornerstone Hospice focuses on quality of life, not the length of time left to live. A study in the New England Journal of Medicine cites that those entering a hospice program earlier can add 30–60 days to their life— that is quality time because patients feel more like themselves. When someone feels better, they do better and when they do better, they live longer. National family/caregiver surveys repeatedly indicate, “I wish I had hospice help sooner.”
Hospice is just for the elderly, right?
No. Cornerstone Hospice services are available to all individuals facing a lifelimiting illness and their families without regard to age, gender, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, diagnosis, cost of therapy, ability to pay, or life circumstances. Cornerstone Hospice does not impose any value or belief system on its patients or their families and respects those of its patients and their families.
Isn’t hospice just for cancer?
No. Cornerstone Hospice cares for all
end-stage disease processes. Less than half of hospice patients have cancer.
Cornerstone helps patients who are facing any life-limiting illness including but not limited to heart disease, debility, dementia (including Alzheimer’s disease), lung disease, and stroke
Who pays for hospice?
Cornerstone Hospice care is covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most commercial insurances. Additionally, because we are a not-for-profit organization, our foundation provides support through the generosity of our community to help defray hospice costs. Also, if there is an immediate need identified by one of our team members, the foundation will assist with funds to help meet that patient’s need.
Does Cornerstone Hospice provide chemotherapy?
Yes, if it is for comfort measures and is appropriate for the patient’s individualized plan of care. Cornerstone Hospice may cover many palliative interventions after considering the benefit to the patient.
What happens in the hospital?
When Cornerstone Hospice patients are hospitalized, our clinicians in the hospital
visit and assist in the coordination of care with the hospital staff. Patients may be admitted and receive Cornerstone Hospice services while they are in a contracted hospital.
What volunteer opportunities are there?
Cornerstone Hospice professionallytrained volunteers are invaluable to our team. They can provide companionship to patients to give caregivers a break or offer vigil care for patients and families during the last hours of life. Our volunteers work with many of our outreach programs; such as Transitions, Cornerstone SALUTES!, and Pet Peace of Mind, as well as provide fundraising and office assistance.
What is Cornerstone SALUTES?
Cornerstone participates in the National Hospice’s WE HONOR VETERANS initiative. Our staff is specially trained to meet the specific needs of veterans. It is a tailor-made pinning ceremony by a veteran for the veteran patient and family to say, “Thank you.”
Who’s going to help with my pet?
Cornerstone Hospice Pet Peace of Mind volunteers walk dogs, feed pets, and
provide transportation to veterinary visits or groomers. We were the first hospice in Florida to introduce Pet Peace of Mind, which enables hospice patients to keep their pets at home with them throughout their end-of-life journey. This program provides helping hands and financial assistance so caring volunteers are able to help patients with pet care needs.
How long does the grief support last?
Cornerstone Hospice provides bereavement care for 18 months to ensure that loved ones adequately work through the grief process. Community bereavement is also offered to anyone who has experienced a loss of a loved one, even if that loved one was not a hospice patient.
Who can refer patients to hospice?
Anyone, including the patient. Cornerstone will follow up with a physician for certification on any referral made by someone other than a physician.
Since 1984, Cornerstone Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., a community-based, not-for-profit, healthcare organization has provided comfort care rather than curative treatment for seriously ill patients and their families when life expectancy is measured in months, not years. The miracle of hospice isn’t in the cure… but in the caring.
Hospice is not a place, but a philosophy of care, respecting patient choices, dignity, and control. Hospice never takes away hope, but rather provides peace and comfort. Hospice focuses on the entire patient and family holistically — mind, body, and spirit — addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Hospice recognizes the normal process of living and focuses on maintaining the best possible quality of life. Cornerstone Hospice — life before death.
You visit your dentist in the morning; have the “Mini Implant System” placed in less than two hours; then go out and enjoy your favorite lunch with family or friends. Imagine smiling and laughing again, talking with confidence with your dentures securely and firmly held in place. This entire procedure takes place in Dr. Vaziri’s office… often in a single visit. He has been placing dental implants for the past 15 years.
If you currently have dentures that slip out of place, or do not allow you to eat foods you would like to be able to eat, anchoring them securely in place with mini implants will stabilize them and eliminate such problems. Sounds too good to be true, but it is true!
The Mini Dental Implant (MDI) system consists of a miniature titanium implant very similar to the root of a tooth. The head of the implant is shaped like a ball and the housing retainer acts like a socket that contains a rubber o-ring. The o-ring snaps over the ball and the miraculous happens. The denture becomes secure and stable.
The entire process is accomplished with only a local anesthetic. Using a precise, controlled, minimally-invasive technique, the implants are placed. It is a one-step procedure that involves neither sutures nor the typical months of healing.
Mini dental implants provide major denture stability for patients who can’t withstand conventional implant surgery or who don’t have enough bone to allow for full-sized implants. You may qualify to get mini implants if you are not a candidate for standard implants. Dr. Vaziri can easily determine if you are a candidate on your first visit. And you can walk out that very same day with a mini implant secure denture and eat a sandwich.
Dental implant therapy has been one of the most significant advances in dentistry in the past 25 years. With our computer and medical technology worlds working hard to develop smaller components, the dental world has done the same with their implants as well. 20 Years of Excellence in
Dr. Asad Qamar has a dream, a vision that keeps pushing him forward to create the ultimate cardiovascular wellness center. Not just for the state or region, but for anyone in the world who can benefit from his skill. Even the fulfillment of the grandest dreams, though, begins with small steps. In 2009, Dr. Qamar opened the Institute of Cardiovascular Excellence (ICE) with a single location, two physicians, and a nurse practitioner. Growth came rapidly, and his elusive dream came dramatically closer to fulfillment with the opening of new ICE headquarters in Ocala in 2012. The state-of-the-art facility centralizes many of the medical procedures
and leading technologies critical to excellent patient care, while also creating a hub for Dr. Qamar’s vision. The facility in Ocala coordinates the contributions of more than 70 healthcare professionals in all four current ICE locations.
“Ultimate cardiovascular wellness” is an ambitious goal with much more to it than merely providing a high level
of medical competence and the latest machines and procedures. It’s an acknowledgement that a healthy heart is key to both our physical and emotional wellbeing.
First, that is why patients at ICE will find two cath labs on site to make scheduling as convenient and accommodating as possible. Second, that is why patients who
sometimes come for a seemingly non-heartrelated problem will have their entire cardiovascular system examined — healthy veins and arteries are critical to overall heart health. And finally, that is why the staff at ICE, from Dr. Qamar to the receptionist, take great pride in providing a level of compassion and comfort so welcoming that many of our patients have described it as feeling more like a visit to an old friend than a doctor’s office.
So, has Dr. Qamar realized the fulfillment of his dream? Has he apprehended his vision of hope? He would say, “No, not yet. But I’m getting closer every day.”
No, not yet. But between my incredible staff and my patients who continue to inspire me, I’m getting closer every day.
— DR. QAMAR when asked if he has realized the fulllment of his dream
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From the very beginning, before the fi rst lease was signed, the Institute of Cardiovascular Excellence was envisioned as a groundbreaking concept in cardiovascular care. The mission was to provide the very latest medical techniques and technologies; emphasize personal, compassionate care for the whole patient; and bring it all together under one warm, welcoming roof. Every patient Dr. Qamar is able to help today is proof that his visionary concept was a good one.
The technologies are all here. State-of-the-art cath labs, complete with
patient recovery rooms, offer angioplasty and atherectomy procedures. There is a laboratory for blood work, as well as laboratories with CatScan, PET scan and Ultrasound capability. In a single, convenient location, our cardiovascular patients have access to services and technologies such as:
• Cardiac Catheterization
• Coronary Angiogram
• Echocardiogram
• PET Stress Test
• TEE Test (Transesophageal Test)
• Radio Frequency Ablation
• T-Wave Alternans
• Pulmonary Function Test
• ANSAR Test
(Autonomic Nervous System Test)
Add compassion to that convenience
and a calming, friendly atmosphere more reminiscent of a home living room than a medical office, and Dr. Qamar’s breakthrough idea begins to take shape. Could receiving the very highest standard of cardiovascular care really be this easy? This stress-free? The proof is in every patient who comes into the Institute with a problem and leaves Dr. Qamar and ICE with a whole new outlook on life. We’ll take that as a breakthrough every time.
“Four months ago I was in pretty bad shape. Both my legs were swollen, cramping, I couldn’t feel my feet. I lived in Jacksonville at the time, and I saw five different cardiologists. They all said I needed heart surgery. That if things didn’t change I was going to need both my legs amputated.
“I didn’t know what to do. I was upset, mad, crazy, but I’m no quitter. I was a golf pro for 40 years, even played on the Senior Tour from ‘93 to ‘96, and I wanted to play golf again.
“I saw my old cardiologist in Chicago, and he told me about a doctor in Ocala doing
pretty remarkable work. He wasn’t sure of his name but said I needed to find him. I traveled to Vegas to see my by-pass doctor and he said the same thing. That ‘there’s this doctor in Ocala I need to look into.’
“Finally, a friend in Ocala sent me an article from Style magazine,
and that’s how I found Dr. Qamar. From the fi rst moment I met him, I began to feel better and he hadn’t done anything yet but shake my hand and tell me he knew what I’d been through, and he was going to help me. We talked for 45 minutes in his office.
— PAUL DIONNE
“After a bunch of tests I can’t remember the names of, they found the major arteries in both my legs were blocked. I’ve had 10 stents so far, and I’ll have 14 when we’re through. But I already have feeling back in my left leg and toes. My right leg has some feeling. We work on that next.
“More important, today I have my life back. I have ambition, and I have hope again. I tell anyone who’ll listen how good Dr. Qamar is. All over the country they know about him. I’m on top of the world, and I owe it all to one man. Thanks, Dr. Qamar.”
Dr. Qamar’s vision for ICE would be just that, a dream about committing to an ideal, if it were not for the contributions from every person on the Institute staff. Every one of the health professionals at ICE has been personally selected by Dr. Qamar for their abilities to enhance his vision for the Institute. From the voice that patients hear on the phone to the hands performing delicate medical procedures, the commitment to excellence can be seen at every level and every point of contact.
Dr. Qamar is joined at the Institute by his medical colleagues:
Dr. Clarissa Rose Abrantes, M.D. joined ICE in 2010 and oversees
the ICE offices in Mulberry. In her own words — “I do my best to be attentive, taking the time to listen to patients’ concerns and answer their questions. I want patients to feel comfortable and open up. I don’t just treat the disease — I treat the patient as a whole.”
Dr. Julio C. Ugarte, M.D. joined ICE in 2009 and is a diplomate of the American Board of Family Practice and a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Kevin P. Noon, MSN, ARNP - Cardiology Nurse Practitioner is a
Florida State Licensed ARNP (Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner). He worked in the cardiac critical care unit for five years, in the fields of asthma, sleep and obesity medicine.
Sheila DePaolo, PA-C
- Certified Physician Assistant received her bachelor’s degree in microbiology and cellular science at the University of Florida in Gainesville.
Jose Socarras, PA-C
- Certified Physician Assistant gained the status of 17 years assisting in thoracic and vascular surgery.
a vascular surgery. E
Apparently that sort of commitment is contagious. Today, Dr. Qamar’s single-minded pursuit of consistent excellence is helping to create a reputation for ICE that is expanding far beyond the borders of Central Florida. Even patients outside the United States are starting to hear about the compassionate care and superior results that began as one man’s vision in a little town in Central Florida and just a few short years later, became the Institute of Cardiovascular Excellence.
THE VILLAGES
1950 Laurel Manor Dr. Building 240
The Villages, FL 32162
Office: 352.509.9295
Fax: 352.509.9296
THE VILLAGES
8489 S.E. 165th Mulberry Lane
The Villages, FL 32162
Office: 352.259.7900
Fax: 352.259.7966
OCALA
4730 SW 49th Rd, Ocala, FL 34474
Office: 352.854.0681
Fax: 352.854.8031
WILLISTON
412 W. Noble Ave. Williston, FL 32696
Office: 352.528.3540
Fax: 352.528.0721
IS UNDERARM FLAB HAUNTING YOU? 52 ROMANO’S MACARONI GRILL 54 SAY IT AIN’T SO UNCLE BEN 56 PUMPKIN STEW 57
CANCER: THE NEXT GENERATION OF CARE 58 (NOT SO SCARY) FACE MASKS FOR HEALTHIER SKIN 60 ICE, ICE BABY! 61
SCARY BREATH: COMMON CAUSES AND EASY FIXES 62
WRITER: AL CARDIELLO // PHOTOGRAPHER: FRED LOPEZ
It always happens at the worst times; perhaps it is during the greeting or the farewell or, even worse, trying to get someone’s attention. You start shaking your hand and then the movement travels down your arm reverberating into an uncontrollable symphony of muscle (Or is that flab?) waving in the wind. You quickly lower your arm out of embarrassment.
exercise try to take a small break about 15–20 seconds before beginning the next one. Don’t stop until you perform all three exercises, then you can take a longer break and do another set of the three as your strength increases. ab?)
The following workout plan will help tone up the muscles under your arm. There is an important myth to clear up first: you cannot turn muscle into fat or turn fat into muscle. That is like saying I am going to take this piece of cotton and turn it into steel. It does not happen. With that said, this workout will be the most effective when combined with a proper eating plan and a cardio program. In the end you will have an arm you can proudly raise up without the worry of taking flight. The muscles found under the arm are called your triceps and their primary movement is the extension of the hand away from the body. When you begin to work your tricep muscles you are going to notice a burning sensation that is caused by a buildup of an acid called lactic acid. Don’t have a fear of working until you feel that “burn,” because when you stop your body quickly sends blood to the muscle clearing it of the acid and the burning sensation. This workout is a 10-minute circuit training regimen consisting of three exercises done in succession, taking a little break in between.
Lying French press
Close-grip pushups
Bench dips
The beauty of this workout is you do not need a gym, and you can do it at your home or on the go. Ideally you want to do this on a flat bench, but you can modify it to perform it on a stability ball and a chair. Start out with the first exercise and perform 15–20 reps with a starting weight of five to eight pounds. If you can achieve the reps easily you can go heavier, but always try to maintain good form. After you finish the first
STEP 1: Lie on a flat bench and raise the dumbbells above your chest.
STEP 2: Hold your hands so your palms are facing one another.
STEP 3: Lower your weights slowly to your shoulders.
STEP 4: Try to keep your elbows above your shoulders.
STEP 5: Extend your arms back to the starting position slowly and try to exhale as you push out.
STEP 1: Put your hands on the bench shoulder-width apart.
STEP 2: You can perform this on your knees if it becomes too difficult.
STEP 3: Lower your body to the bench keeping your elbows tight to the body.
STEP 1: Sit on the bench and put your hands as close to your legs as possible.
and put your hands as close to your as possible.
STEP 2: Walk your body off the bench.
STEP 3: Keep your legs bent with your feet flat on the floor.
STEP 4: You can increase difficulty by straightening your legs and putting your weight on your heels.
STEP 5: Keep your body close to the bench as you lower yourself.
STEP 6: Push yourself back into starting position as you exhale.
STEP 4: Breathe out as you push your body away.
Breathe out as you away.
WRITER: JANICE VIERA
The two major variables in Italian food are pasta noodles and sauce, and both have the power to inflate your midsection. That’s the bad news. The good news is — they don’t have to.
But remember, Italian food is more than just pasta; this romantic European country’s cuisine has a diverse range of dishes to please every palate. Each region has iconic dishes influenced by its terrain and neighboring countries.
Standard fare is similar to the famous Mediterranean Diet, which focuses on fresh vegetable, fruits, and grains; beans and fresh fish as protein sources; and olive oil. It differs from the American diet in that meat is used sparingly.
Many people desire to eat well, but few have the resolve to do so. One reason is they do not know which eating plan to choose to keep their bodies healthy and weight trim. However, an even more popular reason is they cannot muster up the strength to
continue with most of the diets they choose, diets that emphasize subtraction of what they consider to be “good food” where taste is concerned. The truth is — eating well need not be about tasting less.
Also remember that part of the process of eating well is to combine diet with a sound and active lifestyle. Try to make a habit of taking a walk after each meal to kick your metabolism into gear.
The menu at Romano’s Macaroni Grill is full of tasty
MAMA’S TRIO:
1,510 calories
98g total fat
32g saturated fat
3,490mg sodium
96g carbohydrate
9g dietary fiber
79g protein
MARGHERITA PIZZA:
840 calories
31g total fat
14g saturated fat
1,310mg sodium
101g carbohydrate
7g dietary fiber
39g protein
choices, but be careful! Many have high calories, fat, and sodium. Consider making your own pasta dish from the “Create Your Own Pasta” list. Include multiple vegetables and either the Pomodoro or Arrabbiata sauce. Remember the bread and dipping oil complimentary with all meals will add additional calories and fat.
GRILLED CHICKEN SPIEDINI:
470 calories
11g total fat
2g saturated fat
990mg sodium
38g carbohydrate
10g dietary fiber
39g protein
Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the kitchen, research scientists at Consumer Reports (CR) have found “significant and worrisome” levels of arsenic in rice. The study, which tested more than 200 brown and white rice products, found levels of arsenic contamination five times higher than in oatmeal.
Rice, which can be found in its whole form in virtually every pantry in America and is also found in many cereals and drinks, is the number one source of arsenic consumption in humans. CR scientists found the levels to be so high they are urging parents and caretakers of children under five years old to limit the amount of rice products children consume.
Arsenic is an element found naturally in air, water, soil, plants, and animals and is always present in the human body. Shortterm exposure to very low levels are well-tolerated, but in larger amounts, arsenic can cause cancer and other serious health concerns.
In its inorganic form, arsenic is found in many fertilizers and pesticides. These products are mixed into the soil, and the arsenic is absorbed easily into the groundwater following crop irrigation or rainfall. Rice, which is grown in water contaminated with higher levels of arsenic, absorbs more of it than grains grown in drier soils. Surprisingly, brown rice, which has traditionally been considered to be a healthier choice than white rice, was found to contain the highest levels. This is because more arsenic absorbs into the husk or outer shell.
Dr. Richard Besser, chief health and medical editor for ABC news, wants to make sure people don’t stop eating rice, which he says is a good source of certain vitamins and nutrients. The key
question, according to Dr. Besser is “is this level risky…?”
He says that until the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) answers this question we can do our part by limiting the amount of arsenic we take in when eating rice.
Dr. Besser offers these suggestions: (1) before you cook rice, wash it in a colander until the water runs clear (2) cook rice in six times the amount of water as rice, i.e., use six cups of water to cook one cup of rice. Dr. Besser says this will reduce the amount of arsenic you consume by 30 percent.
So far, FDA studies are finding results “fairly similar” to the CR data. When it comes to children, CR suggests no more than one serving of any rice product per child each day.
Chronic long-term exposure to low levels of arsenic over time can cause the following symptoms:
• Stomach ache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Muscle weakness and cramping
• “Pins and needles” sensations in hands and feet
• Skin changes or rashes
• Bruising (caused by blood vessel damage)
• Irregular heartbeat
• Liver and kidney damage
• A shortage of red and white blood cells, which can lead to fatigue and an increased risk of infections
Skin changes are a common sign of chronic arsenic exposure. The changes can include darkened patches of skin and the appearance of areas of thickened skin, usually on the palms and soles.
Yield: 8–10 servings
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 4 hours
Ready in: 4 hours, 25 minutes
Ingredients:
2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into one-inch cubes
3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
1 cup water
3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 carrots, sliced
1 large green bell pepper, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, chopped
2 teaspoons salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 (14½ ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes, chopped
2 tablespoons beef bouillon granules
1 sugar pumpkin
Directions:
Heat two tablespoons oil in a large saucepan over mediumhigh heat. Place beef in the saucepan and cook until evenly brown. Mix in the water, potatoes, carrots, green bell pepper, garlic, onion, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer approximately two hours.
Dissolve the bouillon into the beef mixture. Stir in the tomatoes.
Preheat oven to 325F.
Cut top off the pumpkin and remove seeds and pulp. Place the pumpkin in a heavy baking pan. Fill the pumpkin with the beef mixture. Brush outside of the pumpkin with remaining oil. Bake in the preheated oven two hours, or until tender. Serve the stew from the pumpkin, scraping out some of the pumpkin meat with each serving.
Amount per serving
Calories: 592
Total fat 27.9g
Cholesterol 76mg
If you are a Trekkie you might remember an episode from Star Trek: The Next Generation in which a crew member (living in the future) was discussing historical records describing how we treat cancer with chemotherapy today. The doctor commented, “Yeah those doctors were savages.”
At present, chemotherapy is one of our most powerful tools in the fight against cancer. It did, and still does, save a lot of lives — but there is a penalty to pay — and nobody likes to pay penalties.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States with close to 200,000 new cases every year and 40,000 deaths attributable to the disease. We still use chemotherapy for the treatment of many cases of breast cancer. The good news is we have advanced in diagnoses and treatment
so fewer women are being exposed to chemotherapy and more are surviving this notorious disease.
One of the advances we have made is that we are better at profiling cancer and learning more about its weaknesses and what drives it. Because let’s face it — we are at war with cancer, and the more intel we receive, the better chance we have to defeat it.
When it comes to diagnostics, we are now able to test certain genes and detect the presence of certain proteins, which will predict whether the patient will need chemotherapy after surgery or not. This spares many women from the adverse effects of those treatments; plus, they get to keep their hair. One such test is called Oncotype DX, which studies 21 genes in the removed (biopsied) cancer cells and provides a score that
can predict the recurrence rate and the cancer’s sensitivity to chemotherapy. Another test is Mammostrat… and there are others.
We are also better at targeting receptors for hormones or growth factors, which play an important role in a cancer’s survival. Blocking those pathways to cancer growth can eliminate cancer and prevent its recurrence. To say it simply, those hormones and growth factors are like fuel to a car. Without fuel the car won’t start, and blocking these factors is like imposing sanctions on oil. No oil, no fuel. No hormones or growth factors, no cancer.
The hormone estrogen fuels the growth of cancer. One of the first targeted therapies the medical community used to block its effects was tamoxifen, which was developed in the 1970s.
Now we have created even better blockers called aromatase inhibitors. Examples are letrozole, anastrozole, and exemestene, and they work this way: Once the ovaries in postmenopausal women stop producing estrogen, it is then produced by the adrenal glands. There are many steps in this production, and the last one involves the aromatase enzyme. When the aromatase inhibitors block the production of this enzyme, you greatly diminish the production of estrogen. Less estrogen fuel, less chance of cancer.
Another important target is the receptor for the growth factor HER-2neu, which is not only important for cancer’s continued existence but also adds to its aggressive nature. There are now three recently approved medications (trastuzumab, lapatinib, and pertuzumab) that block this receptor —
resulting in the prolonged survival of cancer patients.
Research concerning breast cancer has become quite diverse. We have learned what is working for BRCA-positive patients. These persons have a mutation in the genes that repair DNA, and those who carry this mutation have higher rates of many cancers, with breast cancer being the most common. We also know a certain class of medications, called PARP inhibitors, may have better efficacy in patients with cancers carrying this mutation.
Not many people know cancer can evade treatment by becoming resistant to it. Cancer seeks ways to survive by overcoming the effects of therapy. One example of this is when cancer suppresses the aromatase inhibitors. Once this occurs patients
must try a different class of drugs (such as everolimus, which helps overcome this suppression) or possibly even chemotherapy, which means quality of life will be compromised.
We are very close to personalizing cancer care. This is where each patient’s cancer will be individually studied for certain genes and molecular markers, so we can design the regimen that will work the best for that patient. It is important cancer patients look for such clinical trials and participate in them since this will advance our knowledge and help find answers faster. This could mean that the time we look back and consider chemotherapy as savagery will come sooner, and patients will live longer without compromising their quality of life.
WRITER: RUTH ANN BYRD, L.E., CME
Most of us have used cosmetic face masks at one time or another, either homemade or professional. Recipes abound on the Internet and in magazines for homemade facial masks using ingredients such as oatmeal, honey, egg whites — even kitty litter.
Yes, I said kitty litter. It is being promoted on some websites as a beneficial face mask ingredient! Kitty litter contains industrial grade bentonite clay. Bentonite clay is an ingredient occasionally used in face masks (pharmaceutical grade) to firm and tighten the skin. But, who knows what toxins are in the industrial form? This is a little scary!
Let me give you a few pointers on some safe ingredients that will work much better.
When used correctly, homemade face masks can be helpful for certain skin conditions. This involves blending fruits, vegetables, and other common kitchen ingredients, then applying them to the skin in an attempt to achieve the desired results.
HONEY: Antioxidant (fights free radical damage to skin cells), antimicrobial, helps the skin retain moisture content, calms acne.
OATMEAL: Calms inflammation, eczema, dermatitis, and other itchy rashes
STRAWBERRIES, BLUEBERRIES, CANTALOUPE, GUAVA, AND TOMATOES: Contain small amounts of salicylic acid, which is helpful for acne and oily skin conditions, as well as exfoliation of dead skin cells. Also, these are high in antioxidants to fight free radicals and inflammation.
AVOCADOS: Contains more potassium than bananas and is said to give the skin a healthy glow. Avocados also contain vitamins B, E, and K, in addition to essential fatty acids.
EGG WHITES: High in protein and no fat. Can be used to tighten and firm the skin. When combined with lemon juice, may also provide some skin lightening.
ALOE VERA: Tames inflammation, calms sunburns, and moisturizes.
Produce used in homemade masks should always be in its freshest state. Organic is best when available. If you have food allergies a patch test is advisable.
Commercial masks differ significantly from the “kitchen sink” variety. Trained chemists in labs isolate and extract key nutrients from various fruits, vegetables, and herbs. After many dollars and years of research and testing, these ingredients are concentrated and combined to complement one another and achieve specific results. Carrier agents
and other ingredients can be added to aid in deeper product penetration and to prevent product breakdown and loss of vital nutrients. The highly concentrated forms of these botanicals cannot be properly extracted and preserved at home.
Homemade concoctions will probably not hurt your skin, but professionally made face masks are laboratory-tested and will be much more concentrated and effective at targeting specific skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, and photo-aging skin. While I prefer professionally formulated facial masks over homemade, you can decide for yourself by experimenting with both. Below is a simple recipe to try at home.
• ¼ cup organic blueberries
• 1 tablespoon organic honey
• 1 tablespoon organic olive oil
• 2 tablespoons organic plain Greek yogurt
Blend well in a small blender until smooth. Mixture will be thin. Massage onto clean, dry skin. Leave on 20 minutes, and then rinse with cool water. Mask can be used on the face, neck, chest and hands.
The bonus is this mask tastes good enough to eat and leftovers can be used to make a nutritious smoothie. Just blend in half an avocado or banana and a little almond milk. So enjoy your mask and eat it, too!
In the early 1930s, sultry actress Jean Harlow was famed for her platinum blonde hair, which was a very light, almost-white blo nde color. In fact, Platinum Blonde was the title of one of her early fi lm successes. SOURCE: http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1G2-3425500509.html
All that glitters is not gold — sometimes it is platinum.
Sensational, shimmering sterling is a daring new twist that will be stepping out in style this fall. A classy salute to chill temperatures and cooler looks, silver will sizzle with your fall wardrobe. There are a number of fresh looks every season. In the fall, summer’s sun-kissed blondes and lighter tones tend to give way to warm auburns, mahoganies, and jet blacks. These looks have the classic allure of Hollywood starlets of yesteryear, but don’t be afraid to break out big with the new and bold platinum ice.
Inspired by the alluring sparkle of diamonds and ice, frosted platinum works a balance between elegant and playful, timeless and timely. In recent years stylists have opened up to inorganic, punk-infused palettes with pinks and subtle blue tips and highlights. Silver and platinum accents give you a saucy twist while keeping your look versatile enough to transition from boardroom to ballroom with ease.
Before you start thinking Cruella de Vil and Bride of Frankenstein, know that silver has been strolling down the runways this fall and has appeal across styles and age groups.
How to get the look: platinum ice coloring works on any length and a variety of cuts but works best set off by a sea of striking contrasts and compliments — here, a spectrum of true platinum white, pewter, and sterling against pale lavender
and darker blue-gray accents. The color palette is designed to make your platinum dazzle like icicles on a clear morning while adding some fun. Close-cropped pixie cuts radiate a youthful presence while razor cut layers give an elegant poise — if you’re going with length. To really make the most of your platinum locks you need to balance it with complementary makeup. A natural foundation with a hint of copper provides an excellent base, while pink ice is great for the lips and a smoky charcoal eye grounds a very subtle overall look for the face, providing a radiant and wellbalanced compliment to your platinum perfection.
Not fully prepared for platinum? Here are some other styles cropping up this fall:
Ombre — This dramatic dark-to-light look has been popular for a few years now and looks to continue this fall. Best on longer length hair.
Fishtail braid — Another longhair look, this elegant braid is as practical as it is pretty. Often worn over the shoulder, the fishtail braid is done by gathering hair into two sections and braiding them together with two smaller strands from outside of those sections.
Don’t let the dropping temperature chill your sense of adventure. Go platinum this fall with a sensational new look that will truly set you apart, or work in one of the other fall looks to bring out your warm inner glow while keeping things cool.
This Halloween make sure it is your costume that is scary — not your breath! There are many causes of bad breath; most of which involve the build-up of bacteria in the mouth. Your mouth is a breeding ground for bacteria that feed on food particles trapped between the teeth or the cracks on the surface of the tongue. The waste produced by these bacteria is a foul-smelling gaseous compound — bad breath. Everyone has these bacteria in his or her mouth, but there are three common causes that create enough of these bugs to make someone’s breath scary bad:
• Inadequate oral care.
• Dry mouth.
• Sinus drainage/post nasal drip.
1. Make sure you brush your teeth for two minutes morning and night, and ideally with an electric toothbrush such as Sonicare.
2. Floss daily to remove excess food particles and bacteria from between your teeth.
3. Brush your tongue and/or use a tongue scrapper, which is a type of comb for your tongue. (Drug stores carry these.)
4. See your dentist regularly for cleaning and assessment of gum disease and cavities.
5. Use a non-alcoholic mouthwash such as Breath Rx or Closys II (found in drug stores).
6. Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and avoid sodas and other drinks with sugar and/or caffeine as these dry your mouth and allow more bacteria to breed.
7. If you have sinus drainage and are taking medication to alleviate this, there is more bacteria being introduced into the oral cavity from the drip and also the medication is most likely causing dry mouth. Thus, you should add additional
tooth brushing sessions to your day and drink more water to stay hydrated. See your physician if needed to address a continuous sinus problem.
There are many medications that can cause dry mouth and thus, bad breath. Medications that treat blood pressure, allergies, depression, Parkinson’s disease, and pain can cause bad breath. In addition, some illnesses such as diabetes, liver failure, lung abscess, and kidney failure can cause bad breath. Follow-up with your dentist and physician if your bad breath persists.
the continual development of new connections between brain cells. This process of growth of brain cell fibers and their interconnectedness is called neurogenesis. It is critical to things like learning, critical thinking, reasoning, and memory. Studies have shown that we are capable of neurogenesis all of our lives. A simpler way to say this is that we never really stop learning. Studies have shown we encourage and maintain neurogenesis by stimulating our brains. This can be done through engaging in complex tasks, such as doing puzzles, learning a new language, learning a musical instrument, and reading.
One of the strongest stimuli to neurogenesis is exercise. In one study of almost 6,000 women, physical activity correlated with less decline in cognitive function over a 6–8-year period. The areas of the brain that seem to benefit most from exercise are those are often referred to collectively as the “central executive command.” These are in charge of such things as working memory, scheduling, planning, multitasking, and dealing with ambiguity (e.g., doubt and uncertainty). It is these abilities that normally seem to show the most decline with age.
It appears the best exercise for the brain is that which improves cardiovascular function. This would include such things as running, power walking, bicycling, swimming, and rowing. While benefits of strength training and flexibility are not as clear cut, some researchers theorize each of these provide different benefits, and these benefits would accrue from combining the three types of activities into one’s personal fitness program.
Finally, exercise seems to provide for a neuroprotective benefit to our brains. Brain recovery after an injury or a stroke requires good blood supply, effective neurogenesis, and repair of damaged nerve pathways. Individuals who are physically active are likely to have a smoother, faster, and more complete recovery. Exercise has even been shown to have a measurable benefit in preventing or delaying the onset of age-related memory loss and even Alzheimer’s dementia.
So, get out and exercise. Shoot for at least one hour, three days per week of quality, aerobic exercise. Five days is even better. Exercise should get you breathing hard, get your pulse up, and cause you to break a sweat. Your brain will thank you for it.
Remember, always check with your primary physician before starting an exercise program.
It is midmorning, and you already wish the day was over. You have no motivation to accomplish the tasks at hand. Sound familiar? Well, here are some proven methods to perk up your day when difficulties arise.
Patience is not merely a virtue; it is an inward protection mechanism against high blood pressure and other associated health risks. Time Urgency Impatience (TUI) is becoming common as we multitask our way right to the sickbed. We are in such a hurry that we are literally jeopardizing our health. Try this: Purposely choose the long line at the store and enjoy your time standing still. Your blood pressure will thank you!
When fear or discouragement comes your way (and it will) ask yourself, “What is the truth?” For example: You feel like you cannot take one more minute of _________.
Can you not take it, really? Sure you can. You can take another hour of it. You can probably withstand another day of it. But for that moment of time, tell yourself, “I can do this.” Speak truth — not feelings — over your circumstances and you will be surprised how much you can endure.
It is no secret that exercise is good for us and those who engage in exercise live longer, healthier lives. Did you know that simply by taking three 10-minute exercise breaks a day, you will improve your overall health? Endorphins (the “feel good” chemicals that come from the brain) are released when we begin moving. On the contrary, when we don’t, we simply don’t “feel” like getting out of that chair. It is a cycle: exercise, feel good, want to exercise more; or be a slug, feel like a slug, stay a slug. The choice really is yours — so choose to move!
Studies have shown people with a practicing religious faith live more productive lives than those who do not. Those who believe in God are able to “let go” more and trust a higher power when things do not go according to their plan. According to 40-plus years of study at Harvard University, there are many examples of positive physiological responses to prayer, repetitive words, and phrases (meditation). Add in forgiveness and service and the quality of life improves significantly.
To get a boost of energy in your day simply unplug from all your digital devices. Walk away from your computer. Turn off the iPod. Allow peace to come into your life and enjoy the sounds of nature. Breathe deeply. Take control. Answer to no one for just a few minutes and enjoy the peace that comes from not being interrupted for just a portion of your day.
WRITER: TABATHA ARCARO-ORTIZ, M.S., R.D., LD/N
Good news!
According to the American Dietetic Association’s public opinion survey, people are eating more vegetables, fish, chicken, and wholegrain foods; plus, they are decreasing their consumption of trans fats, saturated fats, beef, and pork. One could conclude that people, in general, are focused on eating healthier in recent years.
While this is good news, obesity still plagues our society, in part due to overconsumption of food in general. What can we do? Must I count every calorie to make sure I don’t overeat? The answer may lie within you… literally.
Let’s look at what drives you to eat. The sensation of hunger is controlled mainly by a part of your brain called the hypothalamus. There are several things that signal your brain telling it if you are hungry or full: how much food is currently in your stomach/ intestines, your current blood sugar level, and your hormone levels. The feeling of fullness, or satiety, is that feeling of satisfaction after
you eat a meal. This feeling of satisfaction is a reflection of having adequate food in your stomach/intestines and an increased blood sugar level.
Appetite is your interest for food. This is driven by sight and smell, of course, but also by your thoughts about food. Your appetite can override hunger and satiety, leading you to overeat. Therefore, recognizing when you are “satisfied” becomes very important.
We can learn a lot from babies. Babies breathe more properly, they sleep more soundly, and they eat when they are supposed to eat. Babies fuss when they are hungry, and stop when they are satisfied. However, by the time these babies reach adulthood, they most likely will have forgotten how to recognize the signals to stop eating, or become too distracted with TV, cell phones, games, multitasking, etc., to notice.
Psychological hunger is the conditional desire to eat that is caused by stress, sadness, happiness, boredom, etc. This is not a true physiological need for food. In addition, some kids grow up being reprimanded for
not “cleaning their plates” at meal time. This all can lead to overeating later in life.
The first thing you can do, prior to eating anything, is ask yourself if you are hungry. While you should not wait until you are starving to eat, you should feel mild hunger before eating. Remind yourself it is okay to feel mild hunger. You should not fear it.
Second, you should choose balanced meals, focusing on whole-grain carbohydrates, fresh fruits, and vegetables, and healthy selections of protein. Fiber and protein help sustain that feeling of satisfaction, or satiation, thus keeping you from feeling hungry too soon.
Third, don’t try to clean your plate. It takes approximately 20 minutes for your brain to recognize it is not hungry anymore. So, slow down, and stop when you feel “satisfied.” Do not wait until you feel “full” to stop. This will take practice, but being cognizant of the difference will be key. While it is easier said than done, you should try to approach your meals as a chance to slow down, relax, and enjoy. The effort you put into your dining experience is directly related to the benefit you will get out of it.
Our spirit is the essence of life within us. That is easy to say but not quite so easy to comprehend. What is it that gives us life and understanding? Does it come from a creator, God, or does it simply come from the mixture of chemicals that comprise our bodies?
If you are scientifically minded, you might believe our spirits come from a mixture of oxygen, carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, calcium, and phosphorous. If you do, then there are a few things we might want to consider.
If our spirit and understanding are byproducts of our physical body, then it has to, in theory, be comprised of the same chemical elements our body is composed of. Let’s break down these elements into their basic parts. Take carbon for instance. Carbon, at its simplest level (one atom), is simply an electrically charged “particle.” That particle is 99 percent empty space. That means on a quantum level, our bodies, which are comprised of trillions and trillions of atoms, are also 99 percent free space, and if you really think about it, we are just one big charged particle ourselves.
And science has proven this is exactly what we are. We are electrical beings. The chemicals that make up our skin, muscles, bones — even our brain — all work by transferring electrical charges back and forth. When you think, I want a drink of
water, your brain sends electrical signals down nerves to various parts of your body telling it to get up off the couch and go pour you a glass of water. Every part of the act is electrical, from the thought to standing up to pouring to drinking.
Once you take a look at it, the physical part of the act is relatively simple to understand. Notice I said relatively. It is still virtually incomprehensible, if you think about it hard enough, to understand how an arm or leg moves simply powered by a thought. But the really hard part to understand — the part that in my opinion challenges the idea that our spirit is simply a byproduct of our physical bodies — is the idea of the thought itself.
What is a thought?
Think about it. No, really think about it. How can our brain, a conglomeration of microscopic cells made up of chemicals, atoms, and tiny electrical charges that are 99 percent empty space, create a thought? Any scientist worth his salt will tell you it can’t. It is impossible for a thought to form just because a bit of electricity flows between two cells. And we generate literally tens of thousands of thoughts every day.
These thoughts, which we assume originate in our heads, don’t stay there. They go out in all directions in the form of electromagnetic (EM) waves. What significance does that have?
According to Lynne McTaggart, author of The Field, all living things are affected
by those EM waves. McTaggart cites the work of French scientists who took a guinea pig heart and affected its rhythm, either slowing it down or speeding it up, not by using the “normal” chemicals found in a guinea pig’s bloodstream — acetylcholine, histamine, atropine, and mepyramine — but by bombarding it with low frequency electromagnetic waves, the same kind of waves produced by human thought.
What does this prove? It proves our physical world is affected, and in some cases even controlled, by unseen forces, in this case EM waves.
In his book, The Biology of Belief, author Bruce Lipton cites scientific research that demonstrates amino acids chains, which control the opening and closing of areas of cell membranes, are also affected by human though — just one more example of living physical entities that can be altered by the spiritual aspect of thought.
Does this prove a spiritual world beyond what can be detected by our senses? Not necessarily, but it is interesting to note how we came to measure electrical activity in the brain in the first place.
Dean Radin in Entangled Minds relates the story of German psychiatrist Hans Berger.
As a young man, Berger was engaged in a military exercise when he was nearly crushed by a team of horses pulling a heavy cannon. Berger said it
was only by a miracle that he was saved from sure death.
At that same moment many miles away, his older sister had a sudden premonition that Berger was in dire danger. She immediately asked her father to contact him to see if he was safe. A telegram sent that very afternoon assured them of his safety.
Berger was convinced that his intense fear of death, as the horse-drawn cannon bore down upon him, had somehow been telepathically relayed to his sister. But how? He was so impressed by the incident that he spent the rest of his life seeking answers.
Hans Berger’s research into the spiritual world of telepathy led him to invent the electroencephalograph, the machine still used today to measure the electrical activity of the brain, the same activity that produces the EM waves that affect the world around us.
Incidents such as this, coupled with scientific research into the unknown, provides increasing evidence there is more to life than what we see, hear, or feel. There is a world beyond the physical… a spiritual realm that surpasses chemicals in our bloodstream and electrical charges passing between synapses. Take the time to explore that world. Discover your spirit and get to know the One who created it.
My father used to say life is in the details. As a young man, I learned quickly he was right. Virtually anyone can come up with an idea or a plan, but very few can fill in the minute details required to make that idea come to fruition or make that plan work smoothly.
Ideas and plans require details, but so do the social interactions that fill our everyday lives. In my experience, women are head and shoulders above men when it comes to recognizing this fact. Have you ever noticed how many things they see and react to that never even register on our radars?
For example, women are complimentary. They notice what others wear, remember birthdays, know where you vacationed, send Thank You cards, and do myriad acts of kindness that acknowledge others’ existence in their lives. They make others feel important. The overwhelming majority of men don’t do that (the three of you who do, please don’t email me).
I have looked very closely at my own life in an effort to understand why I am this way. I don’t believe the cop-out that this is how I am hardwired, and I don’t believe the idea that men are “just different.” I believe it has to do with focus… focusing on others and not on ourselves. All it requires is taking a good look around.
It is something all men can do. We can slow our lives down and begin to actively look for life unfolding around us dayto-day. Some might say this isn’t a manly thing to do. Do you know why they might say that? Because at this present point in the civilization of mankind, it isn’t a manly thing. It is a feminine trait… and one that isn’t to be ridiculed, but valued and sought after. It is my opinion women can teach us more about life and how it should be lived than all the psychology books ever written.
I’ve been a hunter, gun enthusiast, athlete, avid sports fan, have a brown-belt in karate, and enjoy most of the other manly things most men enjoy, but my heroes are no longer athletes or actor tough guys like Seagal or Norris — my
heroes are mostly women, and they are everyday housewives, mothers, and co-workers.
I want to be more like them. I want to notice the small things about others, the things that let others know I see them and that I care about them. Effeminate? I could not care less... because I do care about others. Are my friends happy? Are they struggling at home? Are their children healthy and doing well in life?
Living — really living — is in the details — the details that let others know we care about their lives and their happiness. Real men care.
Lately, I’ve been thinking more than I should, and that can drive a person, well, crazy. But when I saw the opportunity to write about my personal “Innervention,” I felt compelled to share my words of encouragement and, perhaps, inspiration.
I have been through transformations of my own over the past 10 years. The most trying of them all has been my struggle with Bipolar Disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorder. I have spent countless hours in therapy, six hospitalizations, overdoses, and even resorted to cutting behavior. Why? Well for one, because I’m mentally ill — but more importantly, because I was still living in the past.
After my last hospitalization, my therapist said something that finally clicked with me. Very matter-of-factly he said, “The past doesn’t exist. The only thing we have is the present.”
Whatever that past may be, it’s gone. If you dwell on something sad, you will be sad. If you remember a fond memory, you smile. Ultimately, your thoughts control your actions.
SOURCE: http://www.psychiatry.wustl.edu/depression/depression_facts.htm
I decided it was time to take action. Though it was contrary to my nature to be an optimist, I forced myself to see the glass half full. Then a funny thing happened. It was comparable to a slowly blossoming rose. The thorns were still visible, but the vibrant colors of life that were once clenched up in a tight fist were finally starting to let go, one petal at a time.
This should not be confused with “finding myself” as some might say. I’ve always known who I am. I’m what you might call an artistic introvert. I love music, dance, writing, singing, and anything creative in nature. But I’m actually shy and unsure of myself most of the time. You wouldn’t know it by looking at me on the outside, though.
I returned to my love of dance and became a happy, fun-going Zumba instructor. So how did I go from lying on a stretcher in the ambulance to showing people how to do the salsa? There’s no simple way to answer it, but it included my viewpoint – be it positive or negative — of life and the expectations I believed I had to live up to.
I’ve also been learning Spanish this past year so I can teach people the Bible. Most importantly, I had to take care of my own
spiritual needs. At a fragile time of weakness, I didn’t have an appreciation for the gift of life. And look at all I would have missed out on.
Just remember, you may not be someone special, but you are special to someone.
Christie Love Etter is a licensed Zumba instructor. Her specialty is Zumba Gold, a low-impact form of this popular fitness program. Christie understands living with certain health limitations, namely fibromyalgia, but has a zest for life she enjoys sharing with others. Contact her at “ZumbaWildwood” on Facebook or visit http://christie123.zumba.com. Eighty percent of all people with clinical depression who have received treatment signifi cantly improve their lives.
In our darkest moments, we may feel so utterly alone. But we are not. Please, if you ever feel you cannot pull yourself out of a bad depression, talk to a trusted friend, spiritual counselor, therapist, or doctor. Your life is here right now, waiting for you to live it.
You can call me crazy, and I won’t deny it, but I’m okay with that.
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The adage we have all heard over and over is still around, still important, and — sadly — gaining momentum! Though it is often referred to as a scam, it is, technically speaking, pure and simple fraud. Fraud is defined as “misrepresentation”… even if it does not involve money. In my book that includes misrepresentation of self, others, products, or services. Quite simply put, it is lack of truth. When money is involved, fraud takes on legal ramifications that can engender significant penalties.
Having been a financial advisor for more than 30 years, I have been required to engage the Rules of Fair Practice. This includes, but is not limited to, full and fair disclosure in all I do and in all I represent. In my profession, failure to provide “all material facts” is a clear violation of those rules. Penalties are levied for compliance violations. Unfortunately, many financial scams are not discovered until too many people are victimized.
Scams, and especially financial scams, are ever-present and becoming more and more sophisticated. Caveat emptor, or “buyer beware,” is the watchword. Although most of us know not to buy swamp land in Florida or the Brooklyn Bridge, the technology age has ushered in a whole new array of financial scamming to challenge even the most seemingly sophisticated.
Well-educated and well-heeled folks
are victimized multiple times every day by shysters who purport to be something they are not, offering goods and services either low quality or worse, non-existent. The Internet provides untold opportunities to operate a new scam from an electronic platform offering near-total anonymity to the perpetrator.
Although financial scams cut across all races, ages, and educational levels, there is no doubt America’s seniors fall prey to more than their share of such scams. From pre-paid services (legal, medical, burial, etc.), to problem-solving entities (debt reduction plans, higher-than-market savings and CD rates, free estimates, etc.), seniors seem more vulnerable than most.
Psychologists are quick to point out seniors are easy scam targets for a whole host of reasons. Many seniors are isolated from loved ones, lonely, undernourished, and overmedicated, any or all of which may lead to emotional or physical inadequacy or dependency. Such lifestyle conditions automatically open the door for scammers to launch an attack on the unsuspecting and, sometimes, desperate senior citizen. Add to these conditions declining health, financial worries, and the perceived need to help adult offspring who may very well have both emotional and economic challenges of their own, and it is easy to see why seniors are so often specifically targeted by con artists.
As recently as two months ago,
Western Union became suspicious of an upsurge in wired money coming from the gray-haired set ostensibly bound for their younger family members who were generally said to be in a distant land. They dubbed it “the grandparents scam.” There is no doubt many of today’s retirees are spending their often-meager means to help children and grandchildren in need.
However, according to reports emanating from Western Union, suspicions were aroused when an unusual number of money transfers were suddenly being funneled into one specific area outside of the United States. Thanks to its internal technology, Western Union engineered automated stops and launched an investigation. As it turned out, the scammers were making calls pretending to be traveling grandchildren in desperate need of immediate cash for a variety of reasons.
Now picture the lonely, sick, or demented grandparent getting such a call! It is relatively easy to see how grandma would respond quickly with a donation to “the cause.” So as not to give the scammers any help, Western Union is not disclosing precisely how it is dealing with this issue.
Nevertheless, from the major credit card companies to the local dress shop to the daily newspaper, financial scams are just about everywhere. Business owners, corporations, and regulators are struggling to halt such abuses.
Here is a story from my 30-year career as
a financial advisor:
Some years ago a bereaved male client of mine was approached by a telemarketer to set up a trust with the goal of avoiding probate while channeling recently inherited assets to his designated heirs. Of course, the telemarketer offered his services for far less than local attorneys were charging. Unknown to me, my client set an appointment to take place in his own home. The company representative was a well-dressed young man who appeared as scheduled and then spent a fair amount of time “getting to know” my client. Probing questions regarding personal issues allowed my client to get comfortable with the “caring nature” of the representative. (My client’s comments are in the quotes!)
It wasn’t long until the representative was reviewing account statements and filling out forms detailing every dime of my client’s financial life. Some of the forms required signatures, which my client willingly gave… and without reading the document he was being asked to sign!
(Yes, that does happen!) On departure, the representative gave my client a “contract” for his new trust, promising to deliver the trust document within five business days. No money was asked for, so my client felt very comfortable with the encounter. It had gone exactly as promised.
A few days later, the representative reappeared with a snazzy binder full of
papers for another heartwarming visit. My client, still in mourning, set it aside. Two days later I received notice that my client’s account had been liquidated. When I called to confirm the account liquidation, I was told the account had been transferred to an insurance company I had never heard of. Of course, I immediately contacted the client, who said he had not initiated any such account transfer.
He then told me of his efforts to establish his new trust. I was instantly suspicious, drove to his home, and reviewed the lovely binder he has just received. I was pleased to note that it did contain the promised trust, but it also contained a new insurance contract paid for with the full amount of the proceeds from the liquidated account and his bank savings account! My client was flabbergasted when I told him what had taken place.
I immediately contacted the Office of the State Insurance Commissioner and had my client register a complaint. It was no surprise to me the Commissioner’s office
had already received other complaints regarding this same company and its very misleading approach. To my great joy, the company, a fully licensed insurance company, was fined and terminated from doing business with that state. In addition, all other State Insurance Commissioner’s offices were also alerted to the situation.
This story is only the tip of a very large “iceberg,” but it illustrates perfectly how such scams are worked… and not only against senior citizens. There are far too many opportunities for financial scams. Most are not of a magnitude to warrant front page headlines like an Enron or a Bernie Madoff. Many scams operate quietly and briefly, then shut down and move on to some variation of the originally successful scheme and often in a new neighborhood.
If you believe you have been the victim of any scam or fraudulent practice or misleading advertising, be sure to contact local authorities. Every state has a regulatory body responsible for business standards and compliance. Your local Better Business Bureau may also prove helpful.
It is important for all consumers to investigate thoroughly before buying. Aside from the title of this article, I hasten to add another tried and true adage: there really is no such thing as a free lunch! Someone always pays; be sure it is not you! Caveat emptor!
The Internet provide$ untold opportunities to operate a new scam from an platformelectronic near-totalofferinganonymity to the perpetrator.
WRITER: MARY EDWARDS
October is a fun month full of fall festivals, pumpkin carving, costumes, and of course, candy! So, how can we save on our candy and costume purchases? Here are a few tips to keep you from breaking the bank this month:
WATCH THE STORE SALES. Candy sales will be in full swing all month long. Keep an eye out for buy-one-get-one-free deals at the local drug and grocery stores. Compare ads to find the best deal.
USE COUPONS. Keep an eye on the Sunday newspaper for great coupons on candy. You can also find printable coupons on sites like www.coupons.com and on the individual product websites. Use the coupons in conjunction with sales for even more savings.
BUY IN BULK. Consider shopping at warehouse stores. You can save when you purchase larger bags of candy.
BUY LESS EXPENSIVE CANDY. Keep in mind you don’t need to buy the most expensive candy! Gum, hard candies, and mints are a more cost-effective option compared to candy bars and chocolate. Another expense this month is costumes for Halloween and fall festivals. Here are a few tips to keep the cost down but still look great:
BUY YOUR COSTUME EARLY! It’s never too early to buy your costume. In fact, right after Halloween, you will find clearance costumes up to 90 percent off. Stock up for the following year!
COSTUME SWAP. Gather with friends and exchange last year’s costumes. What a great excuse to spend time with friends — and save a ton of money!
ThecelebrationofHalloweenstartedintheUnitedStatesasanautumnharvestfestival.Inpioneerdays,someAmericans celebratedHalloweenwithcom-poppingparties,taffypulls,andhayrides.SOURCE:http://www.candyusa.com/funstuff/ halfunfactsdetail.cfm?itemnumber=992
BUY USED. Head to consignment and secondhand stores for your costumes this year. You can save up to 75 percent when you purchase a used costume.
DIY. [Do it yourself] Are you crafty? Many costumes can be made from materials you already have in your home. Make a ghost using bed sheets. Cardboard boxes and tin foil make great robots.
Be sure to check www.couponersunited. com for the best Halloween deals all month long!
WRITER: KATE
No matter what your holiday plans are this year, the time is now to get your finances in order to avoid debt and regret that can lead to holiday blues. The season of gift-giving too often creates the spirit of giving far beyond what you can realistically afford. In an ideal world, you would have been carefully setting aside money each month starting in January for your holiday shopping budget. But, if you start now, you can still be guilt-free and debt-free in the New Year. Here are five ways to stay on track:
1. WAS LAST YEAR’S HOLIDAY SPENDING RIGHT ON TARGET OR A LOST CAUSE?
Review last year’s holiday spending. Was it excessive or appropriate? If it was right on the mark, you already have your 2012 budget amount. If looking back makes you want to cry, you will need to adjust this year’s budget figure to a number that will work without creating financial hardship and the stress that comes with it. Factor in any job changes or new purchases that impact available cash. The result should be your budget.
2. MAKE A LIST AND CHECK IT TWICE.
Now that you have a total budget figure, make a list of everyone with whom you exchange holiday gifts. Set the maximum amount you want to spend on each individual for the holiday season. These individual amounts must not add up to more than your total budget. Be sure to keep track of spending throughout the season. Recognize that overspending in one area means you must reduce costs in another. This is easier said than done when you are wrapped up in the holiday spirit. Remember, it really is the thought that counts!
3. SAVE NOW, SPEND LATER.
Minimal lifestyle changes such as skipping dessert in a restaurant, packing a lunch, or going out to fewer movies can help save money to be used for the holidays.
4. COMPARISON SHOP. Spend some time researching prices at local retailers or online, and make a note of the cheapest prices. Be sure to also research and use coupons, rebates, online promo codes, and in-store promotions.
5. SAY NO TO LAST-MINUTE TEMPTATIONS.
A pass on the tempting items at the checkout counter may ultimately lead to a much happier and financially fit New Year. A general guide: If it is not on your “approved” list, then the answer is no.
Avoiding excessive debt and overspending is the best holiday gift to give yourself! By completing your shopping ahead of schedule and on budget, you’ll avoid traffic and leave more time for things like wrapping, baking, and spending time with your family this holiday season!
Dr. Jonathan C. Wise, a Palmer graduate and native Lake County resident, believes chiropractic is a vital piece to the health and wellness puzzle. As a food science and human nutrition major at the University of Florida, Dr. Wise had an interest in health and wellness long before he became a chiropractor.
“My philosophy is that patient education is everything. I tell my patients every day that most of us have never been taught how to take care of our spines. Imagine going to the dentist for the first time in your life as an adult just to find out that you should have been brushing and flossing all along! It makes no sense that we can abuse our spines constantly with accidents, trauma, repetitive stress, etc. and do nothing on our parts to rehabilitate or maintain our spinal health. Pain is a horrible indicator of one’s health,” says Dr. Wise. “I want my patients to view their health from a vitalistic, preventive standpoint instead of being focused on the physical symptoms of pain.” Symptomcare does not equal healthcare.
Dr. Wise strongly believes in the philosophy of “eat well, move well, and think well.” So he incorporates this into his practice as “eat Wise, move Wise, think Wise.”
Understanding what we should put into our bodies is often challenging, according to Dr. Wise, because of misinformation and an active effort by the food industry and lobbyists to promote foods that are not congruent with health.
“Human beings are mammals. We are a part of the animal kingdom! As animals, we should consume foods that are in agreement with our genetic requirements. We are living beings! It is important to consume foods that are alive. We need to choose whole foods, not processed. If something has a 10-year shelf life, then the nutritional value is questionable,” he says.
Supplementation is also a necessary requirement for health. He suggests adding these “core five” to everyone’s daily diet because we generally do not receive enough nutrients: a good multivitamin without iron, an omega-3 fish oil, vitamin D complex, magnesium, and probiotics for digestion.
Movement is essential for health. Without movement we cannot sustain life. Research conducted by 1981 Nobel Prize winner Roger Sperry revealed the correlation between spinal movement and brain function. He stated that “movement of the spine is analogous to the movement of a windmill generating electricity for a power plant.” Chiropractic facilitates movement and helps us regain or maintain movement and flexibility after an injury or illness… and as we age.
The human body is a self-healing and self-regulating organism. Health really comes from within us… and how we view ourselves and the world around us. “We cannot control our genetics,” Dr. Wise says, “but we can control what we eat, how we move, and how we think.” The effects of emotional and mental stresses have been well-documented. Positive
thinking and evaluating the way we “talk” to ourselves is extremely important.
“Adjustments and treatments in the office are combined with therapeutic exercise and neuromuscular re-education of the spine,” says Dr. Wise. Also, patients are given specific instructions tailored to their own personal needs for home maintenance. “Our patients get relief because we are making changes to the structure of the spine with active rehabilitation as opposed to passive therapy.
Dr. Wise utilizes the state-of-the-art LiteCure LCT-1000 to provide deep tissue laser therapy to patients. This advanced form of treatment energizes damaged cells and also increases circulation to painful areas of the body. Patients who undergo this treatment routinely find their pain is greatly reduced or eliminated.
Patients have enjoyed equally successful results through the use of a Triton DTS spinal decompression machine. This form of treatment applies decompression to your spine and increases circulation into the spinal discs. It is particularly effective for those with pinched nerves, sciatica, herniated discs, arm and neck pain, headaches, and degenerative disc disease.
“I have suffered from varicose veins for more than 30 years. After visiting four different doctors without success, I had almost given up. Then I came across an ad for Comprehensive Vein Centers, and it was an answered prayer. PA Tran was so meticulous and caring; he treated me as if I were his only patient. It is a wonderful feeling to be able to wear shorts and no longer be embarrassed by unsightly veins.”
HELEN DEVITO VILLAGES RESIDENT
Custom-made, fresh sandwiches, salads and flatbreads made right before your eyes. The “healthy” alternative to fast food.
Don’s miss this fun family event! The festival music and entertainment includes: Irish dancers, the banjo group “Second Time Around,” Mary Ellen School of Dance, and Northern Sound Polish Band. There will be lots of crafts, white and gold elephant tables, and unique gift baskets for sale. Adults will love the silent auction and children will enjoy the games. Polish, Filipino, Spanish, and American food choices are available. Festival goers can also receive flu shots and have a blood pressure check! Grand Prize: one week vacation at Palm Beach Resort! Saint Theresa Church, Hwy. 301, Belleview. 8a.m. to 2p.m. For information, call 352.245.2458.
Bring the family and come enjoy the rich cultural diversity of Central Florida. The event celebrates community unity and raises awareness of the diversity through entertainment, various exhibitors and vendors, plus food vendors. The kid zone area will be full of inflatable games and bounce houses, and a “Taste of the Nations” area where you can enjoy different cultural foods. Admission is free. The Unity Fest will be held 9a.m.–2p.m. at Waterfront Park, 330 Third Street, Clermont. For more information, call Jimmy Williams 352.241.7910 or email unitysl@live.com.
Join more than 1,000 motorcyclists in a police-escorted ride from Daytona to Camp Boggy Creek in Eustis and support the camp’s efforts to provide a unique camp experience for children with chronic or life-threatening illnesses. Both live and silent auctions, music, and an Outback Steakhouse buffet will be available at the end of the ride. For more information, visit www.rideforchildren.com.
Mount Dora may be famous for its quaint and charming downtown area, but few realize it is home to Florida’s oldest and largest bicycle festival. The 38th annual Mount Dora Bicycle Festival will allow riders to pedal past some of Lake County’s more picturesque sights: pristine lakes, historic downtown buildings, and gently rolling hills. The event will be held October 12-14. Enjoy rides of varying lengths for bicyclists of all skill levels. Riders will quickly discover why Biking Magazine rated Lake County as one of the best places in the world to ride in its March 1998 issue. For more information, call the Mount Dora Chamber of Commerce at 352.383.2165.
Partners in Health, through the Golden Triangle YMCA, is now offering members free monthly senior wellness programs to promote healthy living to seniors: Doc Talks, health screenings, vendor fairs, scholarships and incentives for seniors to join the YMCA activities. Don’t wait to start living a healthy and active
lifestyle! 9–10:30a.m. at 1465 David Walker Road, Tavares. For more information, call 352.343.1144 or visit www.ymcacentralflorida.com.
Join Dr. Christopher Stanley, gynecologic surgeon, and Dr. Michael Fountain, urological surgeon, to talk about specific urological issues that affect men and women. Lunch session registration begins at 11:30a.m. and lunch starts at noon. Dinner session registration opens at 5p.m. and dinner commences at 5:30p.m. Lake Receptions: 4425 N. Highway 19A, Mount Dora.
Attend this seminar and learn about the latest cutting edge non-surgical and surgical procedures and how they can reverse the signs of aging to enhance your appearance. All participants will be eligible for complimentary consults and reduced fees for cosmetic procedures. Also, those in attendance can be entered into drawings for a chance to win Latisse, a $200 gift certificate good toward any cosmetic surgery, an injectable treatment, laser procedure, and other fabulous gifts. The seminar is 6:30–8p.m. at the Hampton Inn and Suites, 2200 East Highway 50, Clermont. Call Amy at 352.742.0336 to reserve a seat.
Ever tried walking a half-mile blindfolded? How about running for 3.1 miles? If this sounds like a challenge you are willing to take, come spend the day at Lake-Sumter Community College and support New Vision for Independence. The 5K run around Silver Lake begins at 8a.m. and costs $25. The half-mile walk around the LSCC track begins at 8:05a.m. and costs $25. In the half-mile sensory walk beginning at 8:15a.m., blindfolded participants will be escorted by a human guide while being challenged by activities and obstacles for $5. Visit www.newvisionfl.org to register for this event or read more information.
Come enjoy a relaxing evening of live bluegrass music (inside or outside) to drain the stress out of your life and connect with friends. Admission is free, but donations of non-perishable food items for the food pantry are gladly accepted and greatly appreciated. Food and drinks are available with proceeds to benefit the Cassia Community Club. The event is 4–10p.m. at the Cassia Community, 29245 East SR 44, Eustis (between Eustis and Deland). Contact Martha Whitley at 352.589.1527 for more information.
Step back in time to experience the romance and chivalry of medieval days. Watch jousters, fire-eaters, musicians, comedians, magicians all in costume. This event benefits the Education Foundation of Lake County. The faire takes place at Hickory Point in Tavares. Call 352.365.1265 for more information.
The Life Enrichment Health Expo taught attendees how to achieve a healthier lifestyle while successfully balancing mind, body, and spirit. The event, which was presented by The Villages Colony Counseling and Enrichment Center, featured health screenings, healthy living information, door prizes, and free light refreshments.
PHOTOGRAPHER: HEATHER TOOTLE
1. Renee Furnas and Wendy Sinclair
2. Barbara Donahoe and Bill Broome
3. Debbie Vidican and Stacey Wilkerson
4. Malcolm Barry
5. Sherry Olszanski, Pamela Walker, and Kevin Danko
Those who competed in Monster Challenge put their endurance and physical skills to the test. Competitors ran four miles while encountering numerous obstacles along the way, including a cargo-net climb, monkey bars, and zip line. Lisa Grayford, group fitness instructor and personal trainer at Gold’s Gym in Clermont, helped organize the event.
1. Lisa Grayford, Debbie Wilson, and Jim Grayford
2. Jason Drewes, Jessica Samuals, and Jayson Tootle
3. Quan Nquyen, Roman Bugh, and Ryan Smith
4. Tyler and Nick Grayford
5. Brian Fauver, Lynn Wright, Stacy Loudon, Susan Nesbitt, and Lisa Grayford
The Tavares Chamber of Commerce and Lake Eustis Chamber of Commerce held an after-hours event at Grand Court Tavares. The event featured the culinary creations of Grand Court’s awardwinning chef, Lisa Archer, who won the 2010 Brookdale Senior Living’s Ultimate Chef America completion. Those in attendance sampled some of her delicious hors d’ oeuvres.
PHOTOGRAPHER: MORGAN ELLIS
1. Ultimate Chef Lisa Archer
2. Donna and Ed Havill
3. Ashely Lodi and chef Lisa Archer
4. Sharon Keith and Lisa Johnson
5. Allie Moreno, Judy Stewart, and Rachel Graves
WHETHER YOUR GOAL is simple hair removal or the desire to enhance or restore your “look” we can help.
FACIAL COSMETIC SURGERY AND ENHANCEMENTS
EAR, AU DIOLOGY, AND HEARING AI DS
NOSE AND SINUS CON DITIONS
SKIN, HEAD, AND NECK CANCER
PEDIATRIC AND YOUTH SERVICES
BALANCE CONDITIONS
SLEEP DISORDERS
ALLERGIES
VOICE AND SWALLOWING DISORDERS
THYROID AND PARATHYROID DISORDERS
Florida Hospital Waterman held its third annual Celebration of Life Gala at Mission Inn Resort and Club. Proceeds from this black-tie-optional event supported the hospital’s heart center, which now offers open-heart surgery. One of the highlights of the event was the live performance of the legendary band Starship. Attendees also enjoyed silent and live auctions as well as dinner.
1. Nancy West
2. Jim Young, Kristen Beall Young, and Dave Hurley
3. Dr. Michael and Andrea Freedman with Cindi and Tim McRae
4. Paula and Mike Stegall
5. Anita Young, Patricia, and John Dola
Registration options
$50 Friday Only
$125 Both Friday and Saturday
$75 Saturday Only
Registration fee includes a continental breakfast, lunch, conference materials, and CEUs.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2012 4:30-8:30p.m.
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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2012
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Registration/Payment:
You are not considered registered until your payment is received. Check enclosed made payable to Alliance Healthcare Foundation Mail to: Alliance Healthcare Foundation 1501 N. U.S. Hwy 441, Suite 1802 The Villages, FL 32159
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ALL PROCEEDS WILL BENEFIT THE DWIGHT M. CEARLEY ENDOWMENT FUND FOR FAMILIES CHALLENGED BY MEMORY AND MOVEMENT DISORDERS.
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CEUS, COCKTAIL RECEPTION, AND TEAM BUILDING OPPORTUNITYCentral Florida Health Alliance held a special dinner recognizing and honoring nurses who go above and beyond the call of duty to provide excellent patient care. The event, titled Nurses: Advocating, Leading, Caring, was held inside Mission Inn and Resort’s grand ballroom. Nationally recognized speaker Liz Jazwiec, RN, addressed the crowd, and guests enjoyed entertainment by the classical music group Nova Era Trio.
1. Herb Anderson
2. Shelly Scarbrough, Claudine Harden, and Shirley Boyd
3. Ted Williams, Rosie Reiner, Gerald Tucker, and Greg Skrocki
4. Lora MacPherson
5. Gerald and Mary Tucker with Don Henderson
Center for Advanced Joint Replacement Surgery
“After having suffered an accident that destroyed my front teeth, I wasn’t sure I would be able to smile again. Fortunately, I had Dr. Barr as my dentist. Over a period of several months he carefully repaired the damage. His stellar team took wonderful care of me every moment I was in the office. I am so grateful to them for giving me my smile back.”
— Betty Matsche
People from all over the United States and countries around the world have come to Dr. Vrej Manoogian for total knee and hip replacement. He designed “The Living Hip”, a unique hip prosthesis that is unmatched in its ability to imitate the natural functions of the hip joint. The direct anterior approach, combined with “The Living Hip” prosthesis, has provided a revolutionary treatment for patients with hip arthritis. Since opening his Mount Dora (near Orlando, Florida) based practice in 2001, Dr. Manoogian has paid meticulous attention to the proper alignment and ligament balancing for his total knee replacements, giving his patients outstanding results. Dr. Manoogian is board-certified and fellowship-trained.
Date: 10/31/2011
Time: 11:28am
Exposure Program: Manual
Shutter: 1/40
F-Stop: 4.0
ISO: 200
Focal Length: 165mm
FRED LOPEZ CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
Thehuman heart and circulatory system are truly wonders of nature. Treating cardiac illnesses requires care that is equally amazing. That is the care you will find at Florida Hospital Waterman. Dr. Gary Allen, fellowship-trained cardiothoracic surgeon, leads our experienced and committed cardiac team. He is skilled in the unique option of “beating heart” surgery, during which the heart is not stopped—meaning less time in surgery and faster recovery. In our dedicated, state-of-the-art Cardiac ICU, each patient is assigned a multispecialty cardiac care team to ensure the best possible outcome. The most advanced heart treatments, delivered with the greatest of care. That is our pledge.
352.253.3399 | www.fhwat.org | 1000 Waterman Way, Tavares, FL 32778
Repairing an organ this miraculous requires an amazing cardiac team.