Generosity of space. Millions of twinkling lights and our soaring 48-foot Christmas tree. Hundreds of enhanced cleaning protocols. Boundless fan-favorite and brand-new holiday events, from snow tubing, ice skating and Breakfast with Charlie Brown™ & Friends to our brand-new I Love Christmas Movies™ immersive pop-up experience featuring ELF™, THE POLAR EXPRESS™, and more! November 13 – January 3 | ChristmasAtGaylordOpryland.com Peanuts© 2020 Peanuts Worldwide LLC · ELF and all related characters and elements © & ™ Turner Entertainment Co. (s20) · THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s20)
1020_002-005_MASTHD.indd 2
10/2/20 9:20 AM
REAL People. REAL Smiles.
Let Your Smile Change The World If you are looking for a change in your life, you have come to the right dental office in Atlanta! Dr. Kovitch and Dr. Giesler and our experienced team are here to help you capitalize on one of your greatest assets: your smile.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month
give the gift of a smile!
Proceeds go to the Atlanta Smiles Foundation
Teeth Whitening Special $200.00 (reg. $375.00) Take home Custom Trays & Whitening Solution
ZOOM Professional Whitening System $395.00 (reg. $495.00) Includes in office whitening procedure and take home custom trays & solution for maintenance
Dr. Dina Giesler
Dr. Marianna Kovitch
(404) 262-7733 4405 Northside Pkwy NW Ste 110 Atlanta GA 30327 www.atlantasmiles.com 1020_002-005_MASTHD.indd 3
10/2/20 9:20 AM
CARTER BARNES Specializing in Hair Color, Cuts, Styling and Skin Care. Come visit our beautiful salon in the trendy West Village of Buckhead. 3220 Paces Ferry Place - 404.848.0047 www.carterbarnes.com
“Like” us on Facebook
This is an actual client.
BEST of 2019 CONTEST
Winner Best Place for Women’s Thinning Hair Treatment
Modern Men’s and Women’s Custom thinning hair solutions 2020 the Year for your
Best Self!
8451 Dunwoody Pl • Building 8 Atlanta, GA 30350
770-642-6003
Real Results For Real People 4
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
1020_002-005_MASTHD.indd 4
BEST SELF ATLANTA
www.absoluteimageconsulting.com bestselfatlanta.com
10/2/20 12:43 PM
FOUNDER Sherri Adair PUBLISHER Patti Stephens EDITOR Cory Olesen ART DIRECTOR Dona Halliday GRAPHIC DESIGN/PRODUCTION A.J. Weston MARKETING AND EVENTS MANAGER Wyndi Kappes MEDIA CONSULTANTS – PRINT/DIGITAL David Leonard dleonard@atlantabestmedia.com Dawn DeSantis ddesantis@atlantabestmedia.com Amy Smith asmith@atlantabestmedia.com Andria Lavine alavine@atlantabestmedia.com SENIOR MEDIA CONSULTANT/ NORTH ATLANTA REGION Witt Beckman witt@atlantabestmedia.com OFFICE MANAGER Gail Sawyer CONTRIBUTORS Krys Alex Amy Meadows Ginger Strejcek
For print, web, email and digital advertising information, contact us at: 80 W. Wieuca Rd. NE., Ste. 115 Atlanta, GA 30342 (404) 303-9333 x15 FAX (404) 303-0030
Inquiries and submissions regarding advertising and editorial should be directed to the address above. Atlanta Best Media does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial content, nor does Publisher assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Readers are encouraged to notify Publisher when they suspect false advertising. Atlanta Best Media reserves the right to edit editorial for clarity and space availability. No content i.e. articles, graphics, designs and information (any and all) in this publication may be reproduced in any manner without written permission from Publisher.
bestselfatlanta.com
1020_002-005_MASTHD.indd 5
BEST SELF ATLANTA
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
5
10/2/20 2:10 PM
CONTENTS OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
Wonder Women
2020 has been a year of trials, but we would like to celebrate the triumphs of these amazing women who have been working tirelessly through the COVID-19 pandemic. (L TO R): Melanie McGriff, Michelle Middlebrooks, Lauren Forkel, Leigh Truss
25 Breast Cancer: A Fighting Chance
Finding out you have cancer will turn your world upside down, but know that there are resources out there ready and willing to help you fight back.
57 The Bright Side
Taking a different look at mental and emotional health in today’s turbulent times.
ON THE COVER: Wellness expert and founder of WellScene ATL, Gabrielle D’Auria, talks about using meditation to uncover hidden stress within the body.
6
1020_006-007_TOC.indd 6
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
BEST SELF ATLANTA
Photography by Krys Alex Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
O N T H E F R O N T L I N E S 31
bestselfatlanta.com
10/6/20 8:29 PM
15 IN EVERY ISSUE
8 Best Self Experts Photos courtesy of (top left) Komen Atlanta, (bottom left) Evolve Marketing.
Photography by Krys Alex Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
25
Your guides to becoming a better you
10 From the Founder
Defining a Wonder Woman
12 Editor’s Letter
Fighting back with positivity
15 Local Biz Love
Check out these businesses that help you be your best self
16 Fitness + Nutrition
Great ways to keep our bodies well-nourished and active
17 Mindfulness + Joy
Finding your intuitive voice
bestselfatlanta.com
1020_006-007_TOC.indd 7
57
16
18
18 Relationships
Finding love at a social distance
19 Health + Wellness
Using meditation to uncover areas of stress in the body
21 Beauty + Anti-Aging
Learn how to feed your face
62 Give Back
Solidarity Sandy Springs
SPECIAL SECTIONS
13 2020 Partners in Health Learn From Atlanta’s Top Healthcare Experts
22 Best Rx
Atlanta Experts Answer Your Health and Beauty Questions
BEST SELF ATLANTA
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
7
10/6/20 8:29 PM
{Best Self Experts}
Gabrielle D’Auria is a wellness expert living in Atlanta. After experiencing years of an undiagnosed autoimmune disorder, she dedicated her life to learning about wellness and sharing it with others. She founded WellScene ATL, a wellness community in Atlanta to connect and educate women to live their best lives, naturally. www.wellsceneatl.com See article on p. 19
Alison O’Neil, B.S., M.E., A.R.S. Alison O’Neil, B.S., M.E., A.R.S., is a keynote speaker, author and a leading skincare industry expert with decades of experience. She received her degree in Mental Health and Human Services from Georgia State, with a unique specialization in the Psychology of Appearance and Cosmetic Treatments. In 2015, she was recognized as a L’Oreal Paris Women of Worth. www.beautybecomesyou.org See article on p. 21
Cyndi Sterne
A vibrant mix of chef, entrepreneur, and consummate hostess, Cyndi Sterne has spearheaded Yes, Chef! Culinary Events into the Atlanta culinary conversation since 2010. With a focus on corporate team building and private events, Yes, Chef! Culinary Events has found its niche. Sterne’s dedication to outstanding customer service, a fun-loving personality and commitment to high quality ingredients has made the Yes, Chef! experience unique. Instagram @yeschefatlanta, www.yeschefatlanta.com See article on p. 16
Lisa Lyngos and Leisha Murphy With over twenty years of matchmaking experience, twin sisters and owners of Single Atlanta Lisa Lyngos and Leisha Murphy have the art of romance down to a science. Together they have helped over 19,000 singles find love using a method that is safe, fun and easy. www.singleatlanta.com See article on p. 18
India Leigh
Intuitive reader and spiritual coach India Leigh uses an array of modalities and gifts to help others clearly understand the messages they are being sent. She also empowers others in coming into more connection with their own divine creative power, aligning their energy, thoughts, words and actions with their greatest good and highest purpose. www.indialeigh.com See article on p. 17
8
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
1020_008-009_Conributors.indd 8
BEST SELF ATLANTA
Photography by (D’Auria) XXIII Photo Studio, (O’Neil) Nina Parker, (Sterne) David Sieden.
Gabrielle D’Auria
bestselfatlanta.com
10/6/20 7:34 PM
CLEAN, SAFE & READY FOR YOU.
We are taking new measures to ensure the comfort and safety of our patients, associates, and their families while providing the hands-on care our communities need.
CLEAN, SAFE & READY
At BenchMark Physical Therapy, our physical therapists use manual therapy, a hands-on technique that’s proven to get better outcomes. Our 99% patient satisfaction rate speaks for itself.
Choose better outcomes. Choose BENCHMARK. For a location near you, visit benchmarkpt.com
98.1
Pedicures starting at
$19.99 3555 Gwinnett Pl Dr NW #202, Duluth, GA 30096 (678) 990-0048 | tanzinails.com bestselfatlanta.com
1020_008-009_Conributors.indd 9
BEST SELF ATLANTA
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
9
10/2/20 9:20 AM
{From The Founder} Defining a Wonder Woman It is an honor to celebrate this year’s truly amazing Wonder Women. I’ve just finished reading their stories and they have left me teetering somewhere between a puddle of tears and feeling a heart full of hope for our future in what sometimes seems like a hopeless world. Wonder Women 2020 is dedicated to frontline workers who shared real stories and experiences that will certainly tug at your heartstrings. They helped families old and new stay connected, from parents checking in on their NICU babies to children checking in on their aging parents. They innovated ways to get food service workers back in the kitchen and give breast cancer survivors the support and therapy they needed to thrive. They shared stories that give us a ground zero perspective on how this age of COVID is affecting lives and how they have been able to make a difference. These Wonder Women represent those who have sacrificed to make our lives better.
{
With October being Breast Cancer Awareness month I’d also like to take time and recognize another group of Wonder Women, one that’s truly personal to me. On April 10, 2018, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Luckily, it was caught in a very early stage and I have now been cancer free for over two years. Navigating that roller coaster of emotions and physical challenges takes unprecedented strength, support and bravery. To the women who battle breast cancer and those who provide support services to aid them in their fight, you are both truly Wonder Women. I believe many of you who are part of our Best Self community are Wonder Women in your own right, too. You are working mothers juggling homeschooling and safety protocols while wiping away tears from missed proms, games and graduations. More importantly, you stay strong and steady while calming the fears of our future generation so they can take comfort in knowing everything will be OK. Some of you are Wonder Women who run small businesses and are working hard to find the strength and resources to navigate the unknown and provide opportunities for your work families.
These women and so many of you represent the very heart of Best Self.
{
It is easy to be our best when things are going smoothly, but to be our best when times are hard—that’s how we achieve Wonder Woman status.
It is easy to be our best when things are going smoothly, but to be our best when times are hard—that’s how we achieve Wonder Woman status.
Thank you all for being part of our Best Self family. You can Join our Community by going to www.bestselfatlanta.com.
Sherri Adair, Founder
10
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
1020_010-011_FOUNDERS LETTER.indd 10
BEST SELF ATLANTA
bestselfatlanta.com
10/6/20 8:30 PM
1020_010-011_FOUNDERS LETTER.indd 11
10/2/20 9:20 AM
{From The Editor} Fighting Back with Positivity
Winners
New Look! New site, new magazine, new contest. It’s that time of the year again!
And while I don’t think I’ll be slaying my own negativities anytime soon, my own fears and doubts seem to be at least a little quieter. And that’s something to be positive about.
They pushed back despair with tales of hope and kindness. They vaulted over obstacles with cries of ‘I can do this!’ They showed me that positivity can be a source of undeniable strength.
{
is just around the corner. Get ready to cast your votes and decide which businesses are at the top of their game in categories like Best Plastic Surgeon, Best Yoga Studio, Best Orthopaedics Practice and more. Now is the time to support your favorite businesses. Go to our site for information on voting and nominations. www.bestselfatlanta.com
And that got me thinking about my own views on positivity. Personally, I’ve always seen it as a defense, a way to bury your head in the sand and pretend everything is A-OK. But these women, they used their positivity as a weapon of sorts, fighting back against every challenge this year had to throw at them. They pushed back despair with tales of hope and kindness. They vaulted over obstacles with cries of ‘I can do this!’ They showed me that positivity can be a source of undeniable strength.
{
Best Self Atlanta’s Best of 2020 Contest
Positivity has never been my strong suit. I’m more of a ‘think of the worst possible scenario and play it on repeat’ kind of gal. Suffice to say, 2020 has not been my best year (or it has, if we’re counting spirals of crippling anxiety). So when I sat down to talk with this year’s Wonder Women (socially distanced and masked up, of course) I was prepared to hear some heavy stories. After all, these women had gone through so much more than I had working through the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic. And yet, they were surprisingly positive.
Cory Olesen, Editor
12
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
1020_012-013_PIH-BIOS - 4up.indd 12
BEST SELF ATLANTA
bestselfatlanta.com
10/6/20 8:46 PM
2020 Partners in Health DERMATOLOGY SLEEP MEDICINE
5 Signs Your Snoring Isn’t Normal By Dr. Marianna Kovitch, DMD, DABDSM
Atlanta Smiles
Dr. Kovitch is an expert practitioner in cosmetic dentistry and dental sleep medicine. She is a diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, the highest distinction in dental sleep medicine. She is also an active member of the Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine and serves as Vice President on the Board of the Georgia Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Kovitch is passionate about treating patients with sleep apnea and snoring using oral appliance therapy. She is also a certified Healthy Start provider, helping children correct early signs of sleep disordered breathing. Having sleep apnea herself, Dr. Kovitch says, “I get it, and know what it feels like to be exhausted all the time trying to keep up with the busy lifestyle demands of kids’ activities, work and family. However, I also know how amazing it feels when you can finally get a good night’s sleep, and no longer feel like you’re burning the candle at both ends. Appliance therapy has changed my life, and I love making such a difference for each of my patients.” Read article on p. 52. www.AtlantaSmiles.com
MEN’S HEALTH
Men’s Health Election Year
DERMATOLOGY
Summer Sun Protection and Fall Skin Correction By Corrie Alford, MD.
MetroDerm, P.C.
Dr. Corrie Alford is a board-certified Dermatologist specializing in general and cosmetic dermatology, at MetroDerm P.C. in Atlanta,GA. She is a graduate of Spelman College and earned her medical degree from the Emory University School of Medicine. She completed her dermatology residency training at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in 2006. She is a diplomate of the American Board of Dermatology and a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. Dr. Alford is passionate about providing individualized skin care to enhance the overall health and well-being of her patients. Read article on p. 51. www.MetroDerm.org
SPINE AND BACK CARE
Walking Your Way to a Healthier Spine
Resurgens Spine Center
At Resurgens Spine Center, our board certified physicians are experts in the comprehensive care of the spine. Our dedicated Spine Physicians at our 24 locations are specialists in the treatment of neck pain, back pain, herniated discs, sciatica, spinal stenosis, spinal instability, and degenerative disc disease. Our goal at Resurgens Spine Center is to get you back to doing what you love. Read article on p. 55. www.ResurgensSpine.com
bestselfatlanta.com
1020_012-013_PIH-BIOS - 4up.indd 13
BEST SELF ATLANTA
By Scott D. Miller, MD, MBA
Wellstar North Fulton Hospital Men’s health advocate, Dr. Scott D. Miller, is an innovative surgeon with one of the largest and most diverse experiences in laparoscopic and robotic urology in the Southeast. As one of Georgia’s best surgeons, Dr. Miller is guided by one consistent philosophy: focus solely on patients’ special needs and perfect the techniques necessary to deliver the best possible care. He believes that when patients have a better understanding of the conditions they are facing and how to improve their overall health, they have a chance to improve their quality of life. Read article on p. 53. www.ScottDMillerMD.com
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
13
10/6/20 8:18 PM
Providing Clients with Exceptional Results
Since 2013!
Cristina Reagin Lead Esthetician
Teri Eastin
Founder / Esthetician
BEFORE
AFTER
ACNE IS FRUSTRATING! We help you achieve clear skin without prescriptions so you can feel confident.
We work with acne differently than anyone else. We offer a “whole body” approach.
We specialize in moderate to severe acne We provide the necessary information to ensure success.* Including: skincare/ diet/ lifestyle. Our program includes a detailed and easy to follow plan of action to help you achieve and maintain acne free clear skin. Our in office treatments are all “hands on” with your Acne Specialist and no wait time. We believe in relationship building and welcome the opportunity to support you every step of the way. Book your appointment online www.atlantaacnespecialists.com 465 Winn Way Suite 211 | Decatur, GA 30030 | (404) 900-5152
www.atlantaacnespecialists.com
1020_014-015_LOCAL BIZ LOVE.indd 14
10/2/20 9:21 AM
{Local Biz Love} Check out these businesses that help you be your best self Sip on the flavors of fall with Peach State Drinks. Pressed by hand with love, these local expert juicers only use produce when it’s at its peak flavor, so everything is seasonal. Now that cool weather is on its way, get ready to try a tart
In her latest release, “You’re Not for Everyone: But, You Can Be For Everyone,” Kristin Andree, chief strategist of The Andree Group, guides you in discovering
what has been keeping you from truly living the life you were meant to lead and
apple cranberry, rich spiced apple or a limited edition Southern delicacy, muscadine coming in mid-October.
helps craft a plan to “reclaim your life, without losing your edge.” This is a must-read for anyone looking to level up personally, professionally or financially. Details: www.andreegroup.com
Details: www.peachstatedrinks.com
Photos courtesy of (middle left) Evolve Marketing, (bottom left) Evolve Marketing. Photography by (middle right) Kim Bates.
Getting ready to celebrate? Make some memories without the worry of COVID hanging over you. Elite Test and Wellness offers on-site COVID-19 testing that comes straight to you. With rapid tests that give results in just 15 minutes, you’ll be able to start right on time. Perfect for team building exercises, weddings, baby showers, birthdays and more. Details: www.elitetestingandwellness.com
LEE DUNCAN IS A PARTICIPANT IN REAL MEN WEAR PINK AND IS ONE OF THIS YEAR’S CO-CHAIRS.
For October, LUX Med Spa will offer an exclusive Buckhead Plastic Surgery signature pink jewelry collection created by renown jeweler Mickey Lynn. All proceeds will be
donated to the Breast Reconstruction Awareness Fund, which supports research on breast reconstruction and offers financial assistance to uninsured and under-insured women following surgery. Details: 4684 Roswell Rd. NE., Ste. A, Atlanta; www.luxmedspa.store bestselfatlanta.com
1020_014-015_LOCAL BIZ LOVE.indd 15
BEST SELF ATLANTA
Atlanta men are joining the fight against breast cancer through the American Cancer Society’s ‘Real Men Wear Pink’ campaign. All through October, these local
business leaders will be raising funds for research,
sharing stories of hope and loss, and of course, wearing pink. You can view this year’s class and donate to their efforts on their website. Details: www.realmenwearpinkacs. org/atlantaga. OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
15
10/6/20 8:31 PM
{Fitness+Nutrition} Great ways to keep our bodies well-nourished and active
No Waste Orange Cake By Cyndi Sterne, Yes, Chef! Culinary Events
Healthy eating is not just what we put into our bodies, it’s also about reducing the waste we put back into our communities. That’s why I have challenged myself to waste less with my cooking by either using the root-to-stem method with produce or repurposing any leftovers. This is one of my favorite recipes. One last thing—it’s not a typo in this recipe, pulse the entire orange—skin and all—just no seeds! INGREDIENTS ■ 3½ cups all purpose flour or 1:1 gluten-free flour
set aside. Rinse oranges and roughly chop—DO NOT PEEL. Remove any seeds, then add to a food processor or blender. Puree until smooth. Measure 1 ½ cups of puree, the rest can be stored in the fridge or freezer to flavor another dish.
■ 2½ teaspoons baking powder ■ ½ teaspoon baking soda ■ ¾ teaspoon salt ■ 3 medium Navel oranges ■ 1 cup solid coconut oil or butter ■ 1 2⁄3 cups sugar (can be reduced up to half if oranges are sweet) ■ 4 eggs ■ 1 teaspoon vanilla DIRECTIONS Preheat the oven to 350º. In a large bowl, mix the dry ingredients and
Add coconut oil (or butter) and sugar to the emptied food processor. (No need to clean after oranges.) Blend until lightened in color. Add the eggs and vanilla, blend again. Add the egg mixture to the flour along with the orange puree. Mix until thoroughly blended. Bake in a greased bundt pan (35-40 minutes), mini bundt pan (15-20 minutes), or muffin pan (10-12 minutes).
For those ready to get back out there, but maybe not back inside a workout studio, SoulCycle Buckhead has created SoulOutside, a silent disco spin class. Perfect for fall weather, sign up online for one of their outdoor spin classes where you can easily clip in, slip on headphones and enjoy your ride totally tuned in. SOULCYCLE INSTRUCTOR,LAUREN KEANE
Details: 3400 Around Lenox Rd., Ste. 102C, Atlanta; www.soul-cycle.com
Get Your Grub On After struggling with kidney disease The St. Regis Atlanta kitchen manager, Kelley Hicks, found health and happiness in a better diet and her gift for hospitality. Now she brings her talent to others by crafting delicious dishes like the Philly Cheesesteak Wrap at Grub Fresh Bowls and Wraps. Available for delivery and conveniently located right next to the airport for a healthy preflight meal!
GRUB CHEF KELLEY HICKS
Details: 876 Virginia Ave., Ste. B, Hapeville; www.grubbowls.com
16
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
1020_016_Fitness + Nutrition.indd 16
BEST SELF ATLANTA
Photography by (top right) Karen Haberberg Photograph NYC.
A Spin on Socially Distant Silent Disco
bestselfatlanta.com
10/6/20 7:42 PM
{Mindfulness + Joy}
Finding Your Intuitive Voice
By India Leigh, Intuitive Reader, Spiritual Coach How can you tell the difference between your own thoughts (or the ego voice, or mind chatter) and deeper guidance from your higher self? This is a question I’m asked often, and here are the first steps to hearing your own spirit messages more clearly.
Quiet your mind. It’s one of those things that sounds so incredibly easy but is, in reality, unbelievably challenging at first. The trick is to lean into what works for you. While meditation clicks for some, it can seem eternally out of reach for others. The key to unlocking your mind’s noise control panel will be unique to you. It could be music, time alone in nature, art, listening to guided meditations or self-hypnosis recordings (that was it for me). There are countless ways to temporarily turn down the volume on the mind’s activity that can deflect and screen out messages to and from our souls, or our higher selves. Once the sound level is turned down on the mind and turned up on the spirit, the guidance will be heard more clearly.
The emotional and energetic clearing and purging of negativity can be unpleasant…but it is well worth the pain. Ask for guidance. Because of the gift of free will, spirit guidance can come in only when we specifically request it. While meditation is the practice of listening for messages from the divine, prayer is the act of talking to the guides (including your own higher self) who are there to help us. But they can only do so when we ask for that help and are then open enough to receive it. The requests can be as specific as you need them to be, and you can ask for the signs and clarity and answers that you’re seeking. It helps tremendously to actually speak these requests for help out loud. Hearing your own voice speaking your feelings, fears, intentions, needs and desires can help bestselfatlanta.com
1020_017_Mindfulness + Joy.indd 17
align your mind with your soul–a crucial part of the process of co-creating your life with the divine, the Universe, God, Spirit … any name you prefer. Even if you don’t fully experience the belief that this presence and your team of divine guides are there at first, the more you practice this two-way exchange with them, the more you will recognize and feel the guidance.
Clear your blockages. As you venture further into this process of listening for guidance and asking for help, more and more of your own inner shadows will be brought into the light of awareness. As our innermost selves are illuminated through ever-increasing consciousness, the dark places within us where we’ve hidden our pain, fears, insecurities, anxieties, shame, etc., will become directly visible and more palpable. This is the point at which many decide that this “spiritual stuff” is not for them. The emotional and energetic clearing and purging of negativity can be unpleasant and uncomfortable, even downright excruciating. But the help, clarity and expansion that comes after the processing of those things is well worth the pain. Staying attuned to the guidance once you learn to feel and receive it is a consistent, daily practice. But just like with physical practices, such as exercise, the pleasure and reward of the work very quickly outweigh the attention and discipline required. Once you begin unwrapping the delicious messages and gifts being delivered to you by the divine, you’ll never want to stop. BEST SELF ATLANTA
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
17
10/6/20 7:44 PM
Parks
{Relationships}
Finding Love at a Social Distance Museums
By Lisa Lyngos & Leisha Murphy, Single Atlanta
We’ve seen a lot in our two plus decades of matchmaking in Atlanta, but 2020 continues to be a year unlike any other. One of the biggest trends we are witnessing is that people are taking Virtual Dating and Social Distancing Dates seriously. While dating is a little different from before, singles are determined to make the new normal of meeting someone just as special as the old normal. All it takes is a little creativity and a few ideas to make the perfect socially distanced date. We call it Aquariums the 3 P’s: parks, patios and plan ahead!
Biking Trails
Parks Atlanta isn’t called the city in a forest for nothing. There are plenty of public green spaces and parks from the sprawling acres of Piedmont, to the tucked away trails of Morningside Nature Preserve. Not only does this provide you with ample spots for a socially distanced date, there’s also plenty to do! Play a game of bocce ball at Piedmont Park, take a leisurely stroll down the BeltLine or go on a kayaking adventure down the Chattahoochee. See the city in a new way!
Patios
Restaurants
Wining and dining is not out of the question for a night on the town—not while it’s still patio season! A coveted time of year for all Atlantans, 2020 has made these outdoor dining options even more treasured by locals. With extra space, air flow and properly distanced tables, dining al fresco is a safer alternative to indoor seating and it can also come with a view! Some favorite rooftop establishments are Six Feet Under, Gypsy Kitchen and 5Church. What’s yours?
Plan Ahead Even in normal times, planning ahead is always a vital step for a date. These days it just comes with a few add-ons. Most important is to know your partner’s comfort level with social distancing and respect their boundaries. Next, make sure you have a back-up plan. With many options being outdoors, inclement weather is going to be a factor. And last, don’t forget about timing. A lot of the city’s larger attractions, like the zoo and the aquarium, are operating on limited time slots, so walk-up tickets might not be an option. Fall is the best time of the year to enjoy some of the city’s great outdoor activities and attractions, so let’s get back to dating!
18
1020_018_Relationships.indd 18
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
5
Drive-in Movies
Do’s and Don’ts of
Virtual Dating
Do keep it positive. There’s plenty of heavy stuff to go around, stick to more uplifting topics at the start. Do sit in good lighting. It may sound superficial, but first impressions are important. Don’t snack, a drink is okay. Microphones amplify all sounds and no one wants to hear chewing. Do put in effort. Go somewhere quiet, put on a nice outfit and give them all the attention you would over dinner and a drink. Don’t talk about the past. A date is a step forward, not back.
BEST SELF ATLANTA bestselfatlanta.com
10/6/20 7:44 PM
{Health + Wellness}
Using Meditation to Uncover Areas of Stress and Tension In The Body
By Gabrielle D’Auria, WellScene ATL
Living during a pandemic has taken a toll on everyone. We find ourselves juggling more than we ever have before. Between children, work and our personal safety it’s no surprise that we are also more stressed than ever. When left unchecked, stress can cause lots of physical and emotional harm to our bodies and our relationships with friends and family. That’s why it’s so important for us to come up with strategies to acknowledge our stress and work through it. A great way to check in with your body is to do a body scan. This is a type of meditation where you take a few minutes to sit quietly and mentally go over your body, ‘scanning’ it. This can be done in a quiet spot any time of day and requires only a few minutes, so even the busiest of schedules can squeeze one in. To begin, start by sitting comfortably and closing your eyes. Taking deep breaths, visualize scanning your body starting from the very top of your head and slowly working down to end at the bottom of your feet.
Photography by XXIII Photo Studio.
While you’re scanning, pay close attention to each part of your body. Are your teeth clenched? Are your shoulders tense? Does your back ache? Pay attention to every area where you feel discomfort.
GABRIELLE D’AURIA
By taking the time to acknowledge these tensions and pains, you can make the conscious effort to relax your body. Even just the knowledge of where you hold stress in your body can be helpful. When you uncover any area of discomfort that you notice is persistent, make an appointment to see a massage therapist or a chiropractor. Allowing problem areas to go unchecked can cause more damage down the road. To take advantage of the benefits of a body scan, make a habit to do this practice daily. If we can lower the stress reaction in our body, we are able to sleep better, feel more relaxed and improve our mood. This will allow us to show up as our best selves. bestselfatlanta.com
1020_019_Health + Wellness.indd 19
BEST SELF ATLANTA
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
19
10/6/20 8:32 PM
The Natural Way To Freedom From Allergies
If you have allergies sinus problems or asthma, now is the time to get them under control and have a plan to get lasting relief.
Atlanta’s Allergy Drop Experts | Board Certified Allergists
Prepare now for the fall and winter respiratory season
2019 WINNER
BEST of 2019 CONTEST
Winner
my Vinings/Smyrna
Best Allergy & Asthma Treatment Practice
READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
Center for Allergy & Asthma
Book appointments online at caageorgia.com or call 770-459-0620 10 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU:
Alpharetta • Acworth/Kennesaw • Carrollton • Douglasville • Griffin • Hiram • Newnan Peachtree City • Smyrna • Villa Rica
JEJU SAUNA
3555 GWINNETT PLACE DRIVE, DULUTH, GA 30096
678.336.7414 | Across from Wild Bills Visit www.jejusauna.com for more information and more photos of our facility
•Meditate on Heated Jade Floors •Breathe in Gem Stone Steam Saunas •Bask in Dry Saunas (Salt, Clay, Jade, Charcoal) •Swim in the Jade Marble Jr. Olympic Size Pool •Soak in the Jade Marble Hot Tub •Warm & Cold Pools •Dine in the Authentic Korean Restaurant
Escape
JeJu Sauna
to
for Healing, Relaxation & Increased Energy
NOW OPEN:
ON THE 2ND FLOOR TANZI NAIL SALON!
ONLY $25 FOR THE ENTIRE DAY 20
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
1020_020-023_BEST RX_Beauty + Anti-Aging.indd 20
BEST SELF ATLANTA
bestselfatlanta.com
10/2/20 12:51 PM
{Beauty + Anti-Aging} Feeding Your Face
Alison O’Neil, B.S., M.E., A.R.S., Beauty Becomes You
Who knew that the famed book entitled “You Are What You Eat”, published in 1940, would ever collide with the skincare term “feeding your skin?” Back then, people were only just beginning to understand the true physiological power of what they ingested in relation to their health. Eighty years later, the skincare industry is going through a similar revolution. Integrative nutritional aesthetics approaches beauty through the lens of nutrition and natural ingredients, with the understanding that what we put on our bodies can also end up in our bodies. The movement even has its own professional organization, the Nutritional Aesthetics Alliance. Nutrition has direct correlation with the health and appearance of the skin.
We drink green drinks full of vitamins, nutritional peptides and other supplements to get a healthy glow. This system can also work in reverse, with those essential nutrients being applied directly to our skin. Some products, like Atlanta’s own SallyB’s Skin Yummies, take it one step further by including food grade organic ingredients. Lycored, a nutritional-science company based in New Jersey, has created an entire line of products for both inner and outer use based around the benefits of lycopene, found in tomatoes. While it is true not all nutrients can be absorbed through the skin, collagen is a prime example, the effects of skin absorption are apparent in other applications, such as CBD. When placed under your tongue (sublingually) or applied directly onto pain points CBD demonstrates the power of what we put in and on our bodies. The synergy between putting healthy options into our body and putting them on our skin to be absorbed is becoming clear. Simply stated—trust your gut, your skin does.
Recipe DIY Pumpkin Face Mask! Next time your skin gets hungry, try feeding it this DIY Pumpkin Face Mask! Pumpkin is full of antioxidants to reduce lines and wrinkles, acts as an enzymatic exfoliant to remove dead skin cells, plus increases collagen production for improved tone and elasticity. The ingredients are also gentle on sensitive skin. INGREDIENTS: 2 teaspoons cooked or canned pumpkin ½ teaspoon honey
¼ teaspoon milk ¼ teaspoon heavy whipping cream
INSTRUCTIONS: Mix together and apply to skin for 10-15 minutes, avoid eye area. Rinse with warm (tepid) water and apply your favorite moisturizer.
bestselfatlanta.com
1020_020-023_BEST RX_Beauty + Anti-Aging.indd 21
BEST SELF ATLANTA
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
21
10/6/20 7:47 PM
{Best Rx} Atlanta Experts Answer Your Health & Beauty Questions
Luiza Brows
Dr. Farhan Malik, MD
Alethea Tinkle
Licensed Esthetician Vinings Surgery Center
Medical Director Atlanta Innovative Medicine
Owner and Laser Specialist Bella Med Spa
What is microblading and how is it used to create healthy, beautiful brows?
What is prolozone and how does it help with joint pain?
What is TCA Cross and how can it help my skin?
Microblading is a semi-permanent technique used on eyebrows to create, enhance or reshape their appearance in terms of shape and color. It consists of depositing pigment into the upper layer of the skin, creating perfect thin strokes made to look like real hairs, achieving the best results customized by matching your skin tone and enhancing your features naturally. With microblading, you wake up in the morning ready for the day so you can head straight to the gym, the office or even to the beach with confidence. That’s less time in the mirror and more time doing what you love.
Contact 770.955.9000 @luizabrows luizabrows@gmail.com www.luizabrows.com
Prolozone is a combination injection technique that utilizes nutrition and homeopathic solutions along with highly energized oxygen, Ozone, to heal and restore joint function. The system was developed and pioneered by Dr. Frank Shallenberger who had learned about the benefits of Ozone in Germany. Prolozone is employed for all forms of musculoskeletal and joint dysfunction including neck and back pain, rotator cuff injuries, degenerative hip and knee pain, degenerated spinal discs, along with shoulder, elbow, wrist and ankle pain. It is also excellent for soft tissue injuries. Unlike pure steroid injections, Prolozone helps the mitochondria of cells to “turn on”, thus, it can actually induce healing of the injured or damaged tissue rather than simply masking pain. Because it actually corrects the pathology of the disorder, there is a high chance that the chronic pain sufferer will become pain free.
Contact 770.416.9995 www.atlantamedicine.com
22
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
1020_020-023_BEST RX_Beauty + Anti-Aging.indd 22
TCA Cross is one of those miracle treatments that works to repair collagen and skin tissue in even the deepest of acne scars. It is easily administered without pain or downtime. A winning combination! We are so accustomed to “you must suffer to be beautiful!” Even I was skeptical to try a TCA Cross scar repair treatment. However, I continue to be pleasantly surprised and it is now one of our favorite services. We use TCA Cross to treat enlarged pores, most acne scars and divots in the skin tissue. It even minimizes certain fine lines and wrinkles. Working in the dermal live layer of tissue, it acts as a glue adhering the sides of the scar together like an internal suture. Simultaneously, it adds volume from the root of the scar up to the top layer. The treatment takes an average of 30 minutes from beginning to end.
Contact 678.908.3491 bella@bellamedspaatl.com www.bellamedspaatl.com
BEST SELF ATLANTA bestselfatlanta.com
10/6/20 8:52 PM
{Best Rx} Atlanta Experts Answer Your Health & Beauty Questions
Paul E. Cox, MD, MS
Teri Eastin
Mari Smith, PT, DPT
Hormone Replacement Therapy Vital Living Healthcare
Owner and Licensed esthetician Atlanta Acne Specialists
Physical Therapist Atlanta PT
What is bioidentical hormone replacementtherapy?
What are some PoreClogging Ingredients in Skin Care?
In this new pandemic climate, is TeleHealth a possibility for a Physical Therapy session?
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) produces many beneficial results that help patients enjoy their later adulthood with the same energy and vitality as they did during their youth. Quite simply the treatment restores your optimal and natural hormonal balance to allow you to look and feel your best. There is no reason to let decreased hormone levels hold you back from continuing an active life. BHRT can increase and enhance your energy level, libido, memory and immunity to optimal levels. One of the largest appeals of bio-identical hormones is that they are natural, so our bodies can metabolize them as they were designed to do, minimizing side effects. Additionally, bio-identical hormones are individually matched to each patient’s specific hormonal needs, as opposed to giving all people the same treatment and never measuring the results.
Contact 404.843.3636 info@vlhmd.com www.vlhmd.com bestselfatlanta.com
1020_020-023_BEST RX_Beauty + Anti-Aging.indd 23
Before using any new products on your hair or skin, be sure to check the ingredients first – even if the bottle says “won’t clog pores” or “noncomedogenic.” Government agencies don’t oversee this process, so often skincare companies will claim that their products promote clear skin while the ingredients actually contain many pore-clogging elements. Natural oils such as jojoba, olive and lanolin are mildly comedogenic and can be a problem if formulated with other comedogenic ingredients. While others like cocoa butter and coconut oil are the worst offenders and often found in many organic skin care lines. Prescription products such as Retin A cream, over-the-counter acne medications, and even “oil-free” acne products can also contain pore-clogging ingredients.
Contact 404.900.5152 denise@atlantaacnespecialists.com www.atlantaacnespecialists.com BEST SELF ATLANTA
Telehealth is a great option when you are unable to come into the clinic. Your physical therapist will be able to assess your mobility and function through your demonstration and verbal descriptions of pain, hear your concerns, and develop an individualized plan of care consisting of self mobilizations and exercises to get you out of pain and working toward recovery. Prior to your session you will receive an email with instructions on how to log into your session and what to expect. The sessions will still be one-onone for about an hour.
Contact 770.989.1405 info@atlantapt.com www.atlantapt.com
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
23
10/6/20 8:52 PM
1020_024-029_Breast Camcer feature.indd 24
10/5/20 5:36 PM
Chance
A Fighting
Local resources help patients battle breast cancer By Ginger Strejcek
276,480 women and 2,620 men
This year in the United States, are projected to be diagnosed with breast cancer, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). As the second
early detection and treatment can mean the difference between life and death.
most common cancer among women in the U.S. after skin cancer,
But those with socioeconomic disadvantages often get the short end of the stick. In fact, the disparities are so great that breast cancer is now the leading cause of cancer death for Black women in Georgia, according to ACS, in part because they’re more likely to be diagnosed with late-stage breast cancer. Thankfully, there’s a battalion of organizations ready to provide resources for those in need, helping to ensure a greater chance of survival with increased access to breast health services. Though COVID-19 has affected how services are delivered, particularly for immunosuppressed patients, it has made advocates more determined than ever to put up their dukes. bestselfatlanta.com
1020_024-029_Breast Camcer feature.indd 25
BEST SELF ATLANTA
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
25
10/6/20 6:02 PM
Susan G. Komen Greater Atlanta 3525 Piedmont Rd. NE., Bldg. 5, Ste. 215, Atlanta 404.814.0052, www.komenatlanta.org With a vision to create a world without breast cancer, Susan G. Komen is the largest breast cancer organization in the country. It takes a 360 degree approach to discovering breakthroughs for the most aggressive and deadly breast cancers, while ensuring everyone gets the care they need—no matter who they are or where they live. Komen provides local screening and diagnostic programs in communities that are home to populations most vulnerable to experiencing poor breast health outcomes. Through the Treatment Assistance Program, it provides financial assistance for basic expenses, transportation to and from treatment, prescriptions and more. “In all that we do, Susan G. Komen remains focused on reducing breast cancer deaths,” says Ciarra McEachin, Director of Development. “In metro Atlanta, we do this by strategically working to eliminate the breast health disparity that exists for Black women, who are 45% more likely to die from breast cancer than their white counterparts.”
SERVICES: FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE, SCREENINGS, DIAGNOSTICS How to apply: Call the Susan G. Komen Breast Care Helpline at 1.877.465.6636, select option 2 and ask for information about the Treatment Assistance Fund. Hours are from 9a.m.-10p.m., Monday-Friday.
560 W. Crossville Rd., Ste. 103, Roswell 770.757.1188, www.feelbeautifultoday.org From stringing jewelry beads to painting pictures, Feel Beautiful Today (FBT) uses art as a tool for healing, tapping into the power of creativity to bring something positive to a patient’s cancer journey. FBT’s highly-ranked Arts in Health programs, designed to complement integrative oncology care, are offered at Northside Cancer Institute, Atlanta Cancer Care, Georgia Cancer Institute, Emory Winship Cancer Institute, Piedmont Hospital, Grady Hospital, American Cancer Society Hope Lodge Atlanta, and several other locations. “There is a critical need to help patients remember who they are outside of the diagnosis and encourage them to use their strength to persevere,” says FBT founder and director Biviana “Bivi” Franco. “Introducing art allows them to redirect their thoughts to a more positive place and acknowledge the beautiful things in their life.” Research increasingly shows the benefits of treating the mind, body and spirit, she says, adding that the workshops help relieve stress and anxiety, encourage better communication, boost well-being and restore a sense of normalcy through socializing and camaraderie. Programs are currently presented in an online format to preserve social distancing. Requirements: Patients can receive services if they are undergoing treatment at a partnered center.
SERVICES: ART THERAPY How to apply: Services are offered through partnered cancer centers, patients may inquire with their oncologist, nurse or patient advocate.
26
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
1020_024-029_Breast Camcer feature.indd 26
BEST SELF ATLANTA
Photos courtesy of (top) Komen Atlanta; (bottom) Feel Beautiful Today, photography by Jen A Photography.
Feel Beautiful Today
bestselfatlanta.com
10/6/20 8:52 PM
890 Atlanta St., Ste. 201, Roswell 770.614.1779, www.beverlyfamilyfoundation.org Dedicated to improving the survival rates of lower income breast cancer patients, The Eric R. Beverly Family Foundation provides financial grants for emergency basic living necessities such as rent, utilities and groceries. “This support helps remove financial barriers to beginning and successfully completing their treatment,” says Juliann Kaiser, executive director of the foundation. The program is facilitated by hospital social workers at the Georgia Cancer Center for Excellence at Grady Health System, who conduct needs assessment interviews and submit requests for assistance. Additionally, through the Hope for the Holidays program, the Center hosts a festive party for breast cancer patients and their families to celebrate the season without worry, with dinner and entertainment, presents, toiletries and gift cards for groceries and merchandise. Requirements: Services are available to patients at the Grady Cancer Center for Excellence.
SERVICES: FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE How to apply: Patients are selected by a financial assessment conducted by a hospital social worker, who then submits an assistance request.
Atlanta Cancer Care Foundation 5670 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., Ste. 1100, Atlanta 404.213.1667, www.atlantacancercarefoundation.org Photos courtesy of (top) The Eric R. Beverly Family Foundation, photography by Kristen Alexander.
Photos courtesy of (top) Komen Atlanta; (bottom) Feel Better Today, photography by Jen A Photography.
The Eric R. Beverly Family Foundation
All too often, patients—especially those in underserved communities— are forced to make difficult decisions. For those grappling with the choice of paying the rent or finishing the next round of chemo, American Cancer Care Foundation (ACCF) is ready to help. The foundation provides critical financial assistance to adult cancer patients in the 17-county metro Atlanta area. Approved grants are applied directly towards daily expenses such as mortgage or rent payments, utility bills, groceries, transportation, durable medical equipment, prescription medications, lymphedema garments or similar expenses. “ACCF is highly focused on one thing: helping patients overcome the financial barriers to their treatment and, ultimately, recovery,” says Executive Director Mitzy Sharp Futro, adding that ACCF has made more than $1.7 million in grants since 2001, including $256,000 to 826 patients in 2019, with nearly 40% of grantees diagnosed with breast cancer. ACCF works with patients to understand their situation, identify their greatest need and make payments directly to the service provider or creditor. Requirements: Patients must be at least 18, reside in a serviced county, have a documented cancer diagnosis and undergone treatment within the past 12 months.
SERVICES: FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE How to apply: Applications can be filled out online and require a referral from a medical professional. Bills that need to be considered for payment should be sent along with the application. bestselfatlanta.com
1020_024-029_Breast Camcer feature.indd 27
BEST SELF ATLANTA
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
27
10/6/20 7:59 PM
TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation 8010 Roswell Rd., Ste. 120, Atlanta 770.360.9271, www.myturningpoint.org
TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation offers compassionate, comprehensive care for breast cancer patients through customized recovery plans in education, emotional support, nutrition and physical activity—with most on-site services now being offered virtually during COVID-19. Since 2003, the nonprofit healthcare organization has helped over 4,000 people and provided over 80,000 treatments. About a quarter of patients receive financial assistance through complementary and reduced-fee services. “TurningPoint has been a game changer in our community and beyond. When a breast cancer patient walks into our clinic thinking they can’t play tennis or golf again, or pick up their baby for fear of pain or doing other things that used to be routine, it is absolutely heartbreaking. Then to see them walk out of our doors after just one visit feeling physically and emotionally better is priceless,” says Arelis Cortés, TurningPoint’s Breast Event Coordinator. “We need to get the word out that we are here and that despite the many challenges breast cancer has thrust our patients into, they can heal and get back to doing the things they love, with the people they love.” Requirements: Patients must be referred by a medical professional.
SERVICES: COUNSELING, PHYSICAL THERAPY, MASSAGE THERAPY, EXERCISE AND NUTRITIONAL COUNSELING How to apply: Patients can fill out an application online. Most insurances are accepted and there is also a financial assistance fund to help cover the cost of services.
The Pink Fund
A national charity that serves all 50 states, The Pink Fund provides 90-day non-medical cost of living expenses to breast cancer patients in active treatment so they can focus on healing, raising families and getting back to work. The grant program is a godsend, with statistics showing that between 20 to 30% of women diagnosed will lose their jobs, 47% of women are using their retirement account to pay for out-of-pocket expenses and between 30-40% will pay for treatment with their credit card. As the financial support eases the burden of paying for such critical expenses as housing, transportation, utilities and insurance, it decreases stress levels and improves survivorship outcomes. “While fighting for their lives, women and men in active treatment for breast cancer often lose their livelihoods,” says Molly MacDonald, founder/CEO of The Pink Fund and a breast cancer survivor. “I know all too well how stressful it is to struggle financially while fighting cancer and I’m determined to help prevent other women, men and their families from the same.” Requirements: Patients must have a medical referral and be making less than 500% of the federal poverty level.
SERVICES: FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR UP TO 90-DAYS FOR NONMEDICAL EXPENSES How to apply: Patients can apply online.
28
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
1020_024-029_Breast Camcer feature.indd 28
BEST SELF ATLANTA
Photos courtesy of (top) TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation.
P.O. Box 603, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48303 877.234.PINK (7465), www.pinkfund.org, info@thepinkfund.org
bestselfatlanta.com
10/6/20 7:59 PM
Photos courtesy of (top) TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation.
Cancer Support Community Atlanta 5775 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., Bldg. C, Ste. 225, Atlanta 404.843.1880, www.cscatlanta.org
Cancer Support Community (CSC) Atlanta is the local chapter of the world’s largest nonprofit provider of psychosocial oncology programs. With a mission to enhance health and well-being, CSC Atlanta promotes active living and learning through support, education, nutrition, exercise, stress reduction and social gathering. The free programming, led by licensed and certified professionals, ranges from cooking demonstrations to gentle exercise classes. Due to the coronavirus outbreak, CSC Atlanta has suspended all in-person programs and shifted to an online virtual format. The majority of programs were previously conducted at CSC Atlanta’s 8,000 square-foot space, located adjacent to Northside Hospital Cancer Institute, with whom it has an affiliation. Requirements: Patients must be receiving treatment at Northside Hospital.
SERVICES: NUTRITIONAL COUNSELING, EXERCISE COUNSELING, EDUCATION, SOCIAL GROUP SUPPORT AND STRESS RELIEF How to apply: Patients can apply online, all classes are free of charge.
Sisters By Choice
5910 Hillandale Dr., Ste. 104, Lithonia 770.987.2951, www.sisterbychoice.org Founded in 1989 by surgeon Dr. Rogsbert F. Phillips-Reed as a breast cancer support group, Sisters By Choice (SBC) has evolved into a multi-faceted nonprofit organization that serves women in the metro Atlanta area and beyond. Each year, SBC provides over 1,000 free mammograms and breast exams to uninsured, unemployed and homeless women and conducts free educational seminars, workshops and health fair screenings to promote breast cancer awareness. SBC’s state-of-the-art Mobile Breast Clinic, an all-inclusive screening and diagnostic unit that rolled out in 2015, brings advanced technology for early detection and treatment to underserved areas where access to resources is lacking. “Our goal is to eventually travel throughout the state of Georgia,” says Dr. Phillips-Reed. Services include breast exams, digital mammograms and remote radiology support, comprehensive diagnostic testing, patient navigation, prevention education and treatment referral—with a breast specialist or physician assistant on-site. Requirements: Patients must be referred by a medical professional.
SERVICES: MAMMOGRAMS, BREAST EXAMS, HEALTH SCREENINGS ADDITIONAL RESOURCES AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY HEALTH INSURANCE ASSIST For patients 64 or younger who either have no insurance or are at risk of losing their insurance, this service helps cancer patients navigate possible options. They do not provide insurance or financial assistance. 888-227-6333. The service is available Monday-Friday, 7a.m.-6p.m. CT. 211 PROGRAM (BY UNITED WAY) This free hotline provides callers with local resources in their area for emergency bestselfatlanta.com
1020_024-029_Breast Camcer feature.indd 29
situations including illness, disaster relief, homelessness, etc. Dial 2-1-1 for assistance. TEAM MAGGIE FOR A CURE A national non-profit providing young women facing possible infertility from cancer treatments with access to fertility storage options. www.teammaggieforacure.org CANCER CARE CASE MANAGEMENT A free oncological social work service to assist cancer patients in navigating the many financial, emotional and physical hardships of a cancer diagnosis.
Free to any cancer patient. Call 800-813-HOPE Monday-Thursday from 10a.m.-6p.m., Friday 10a.m.-5p.m. CENTER FOR BLACK WOMEN WELLNESS An Atlanta-based organization that provides free/ low-cost health services to Black women. Their Wellness Clinic offers mammogram referrals and laboratory services. Clinic hours are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 9a.m.-4p.m. For more information or to book an appointment call 404-688-9202 ext. 110 BEST SELF ATLANTA
CANCER STATE AID PROGRAM A state-wide program designed to give financial relief to state residents without full health coverage. Patients must attend a partnered facility to qualify. Please visit www.dph.georgia.gov/cancer-aid ROAD TO RECOVERY Free rides to treatment through the American Cancer Society. Please call 1-800-227-2345 well in advance of your appointment date to schedule.
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
29
10/6/20 7:59 PM
DISCOVER YO U R BEAUT Y DIANE ALEXANDER, MD, FACS Artisan Beauté was founded by Diane Alexander, MD, FACS who has dedicated her career to the science and art of beauty. Artisan Beaute’ is an oasis in a world that can feel chaotic. Step inside and indulge all of your senses-sight, sound, taste, smell, touch-and most importantly, a sense of self. Take a breath, look inside, bestow kindness on yourself and see your beauty. The world will see it too.
We are proud to be the Host Partner of
WONDER WOMEN Safety has always been our number one priority and we are dedicated to bringing health, joy, and beauty back into our patients’ lives, with the same passion, dedication, and experience prior to Covid-19. We have enhanced our clean procedures by screening patient temperatures, reducing the number of appointments, and increasing time in between services for deep-cleaning; just to name a few.
INTRODUCING : COOLTONE & CLEARSILK™
Injectables Halo Forever Young BBL Forever Clear BBL Pro-Fractional Coolsculpting Ultherapy Vivace PRP Hydrafacial
Intraceuticals Microcurrent Microneedling Chemical Peels IV Therapy THERMIsmooth THERMIva Luxury Facials Le Remodeling Face®
www.artistanbeaute.com/ATLmag
Hanover Buckhead Village | 3150 Roswell Rd. Ste B-1, Atlanta | 770-637-2919 | artisanbeaute.com |
1020_030-047_Wonder Woman.indd 30
BV Artisan Beaute Atlanta 10/6/20 6:33 PM
WW
WONDER WOMEN ON THE FRONT LINES
For this year's Wonder Women, we wanted to take the time to celebrate and share our gratitude towards a group of women who have made an impact on what has been a difficult year all around. Whether they were walking the halls of the hospital COVID-19 unit, restocking shelves at the local grocery store or creating policies and procedures to keep staff safe, this year's Wonder Women represent a range of jobs and professions that were critical to getting us through one roller coaster of a year.
a bestselfatlanta.com
1020_030-047_Wonder Woman.indd 31
BEST SELF ATLANTA
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
31
10/6/20 8:53 PM
WONDER WOMEN
“
I ALSO WANT TO AFFECT POSITIVE CHANGE AS IT RELATES TO GENDER DIVERSITY.
”
MICHELLE MIDDLEBROOKS BATTALION CHIEF,
ATLANTA FIRE RESCUE DEPARTMENT (AFRD)
Michelle Middlebrooks, 49, is a Battalion Chief for the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department (AFRD). Atlanta born and raised, she has been with the AFRD for over twenty years and held her current position for almost two. She is only the fourth female in the department to have held the position. Posted at Station 21 on Roswell Road, Michelle oversees the five fire stations in the Buckhead area. On top of all of that responsibility, she is currently working toward her Master's in Public Safety Administration from Columbus State University. Like many essential and frontline workers, Michelle’s work didn’t stop when the pandemic hit. “We are more cautious when responding to calls for obvious safety reasons,” Michelle explains. “Firefighters now have to wear more gear: two masks, hazmat suits, two pairs of gloves, etc., because we respond to people who are COVID positive.” The total extra weight of the additional fire gear is about 75 pounds.
Photography by Krys Alex Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
Positive testing and COVID exposure has been a huge logistical and health challenge for emergency responders, who are the second-most exposed group after doctors and nurses. The required two-week quarantine time cuts down an already understaffed team who is responsible not just for fires, but also drug-overdoses, car accidents, possible suicides and other major emergencies. Earlier in the pandemic, Michelle had her own scare with the virus when her aide and right-hand, Keith, tested positive. “I was very worried about him and his family during their quarantine period, but thankfully the next two COVID tests were negative. He’s been back at work and doing fine.” Community outreach is also a large part of Michelle’s job. She has been involved with one of the department’s newest initiatives called Camp Ignite, a three-day camp that works to educate high school girls interested in becoming firefighters. Michelle enjoys the work because, “[It gives me] the opportunity to define what a firefighter looks like. I’m female and extremely feminine. I also want to affect positive change as it relates to gender diversity.” Sadly, like much of the AFRD’s outreach, the program has been canceled for the year. While many services and companies scrambled to find footing in the pandemic, Michelle says one of the most inspiring moments of the pandemic “has been watching the firefighters continue to serve the community without missing a beat.”
32
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
1020_030-047_Wonder Woman.indd 32
BEST SELF ATLANTA
bestselfatlanta.com
10/6/20 8:53 PM
WONDER WOMEN
“
I WAS FASCINATED BY HOW MUCH THE HEART AND LUNGS WORKED IN TANDEM.
”
HEATHER CHANG RESPIRATORY THERAPIST,
EMORY SAINT JOSEPH’S HOSPITAL
Heather Chang, 31, knew she always wanted to work in the medical field, but when her school advisor introduced her to respiratory therapy, she knew she’d found her niche. “After researching the field, I realized how much the heart and lungs worked in tandem. Honestly, that’s what fascinated me,” she says. After completing respiratory school two years ago, Heather moved from Chattanooga to work at Emory Saint Joseph’s Hospital.
Back in July, Heather contracted the virus herself. “That was one of the most frightening experiences I’ve ever had,” she says. Her fiancé also ended up contracting the virus and she says his case was even worse than hers. “He had a fever for about twelve days. I thought I was going to have to take him to the hospital!” Though the two of them are now fully recovered, Heather says she still suffers from side effects. “My sense of taste and smell isn’t completely back. I have continued shortness of breath and chest pains.”
Photography by Krys Alex Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
Photography by Krys Alex Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
Among other things, respiratory therapists are responsible for operating ventilators and performing medicated breathing treatments, two crucial pieces of care for COVID-19 patients. Since the coronavirus hit in March, Heather has found herself in highdemand and even volunteered to work shifts on the COVID floor.
When asked about one of the more inspiring moments in her job since the start of the pandemic she says that teamwork, which has always been an important role, has taken on a new meaning in recent months. “We’ve become [more] conscious of each other, making sure that if we are gowned and about to go into a COVID patient room, we ask if there is anything that we can do while we are in there to lessen the exposure. Teamwork has never mattered more!” Her hospital even assigned helpers to assist staff in suiting up in PPE to enter COVID positive rooms. Heather is inspired by her mother, Connie, who is her personal Wonder Woman. “She sometimes worked 16-hour days just to make sure we had everything we needed. I know she sacrificed things that she wanted and needed for me. Though I haven’t been the easiest child, I am grateful for the person she has raised me to be.”
bestselfatlanta.com
1020_030-047_Wonder Woman.indd 33
BEST SELF ATLANTA
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
33
10/6/20 8:10 PM
WONDER WOMEN
“
I TRULY ENJOY WHAT I DO AND THE PEOPLE I WORK WITH!
”
SHARON YOUNGBLOOD EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR,
SUMMER’S LANDING OF TILLY MILL ASSISTED LIVING Sharon Youngblood, 52, found her second home at Summer’s Landing of Tilly Mill Assisted Living. Originally she was working as a Certified Nursing Assistant while attending school to become an LPN, but, “when I was promoted to Activities Director, and eventually Executive Director, I knew I wanted to stay where I was and enjoy my career there,” says Sharon. “I truly enjoy what I do and the people I work with!”
Photography by Krys Alex Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
Because of the high health risks, senior living communities have had to implement strict policies to minimize the risk of COVID at the cost of social interaction. “I would have to say the toughest part of my job since the pandemic began is coping with the reality that some residents may pass away without their family members by their side. I can see the fear my residents feel about dying alone and I have tried my best to comfort them during this pandemic,” she says. Fortunately, Summer’s Landing has a screened in porch which Sharon and her staff have been able to utilize for socially distanced visits. “The looks on residents’ faces when they finally got to visit with their loved ones again … was really special to me. I could see their joy and it reminded me to never take time with loved ones for granted.” Sharon is proud to say that so far, her facility has yet to lose a single patient to the virus. “Our owner, Affinity Living Group, owner of Summer’s Landing of Tilly Mill, has initiated a tracking system to monitor all visitors and staff with daily temperature and oxygen level checks,” she explains. Additionally, the Georgia National Guard has come out to test the residents and deep clean their facility twice. “I cannot say enough great things about those men and women. We are eternally grateful to them.” Residents’ physical health isn’t Sharon’s only concern, she’s also worked hard to take care of their spiritual and emotional health. One of the ways she’s done this is a weekly Happy Hour, where they play music for the residents (oldies, of course). “You can find me dancing and visiting with the residents! I am often tired and do not feel very pretty. But the residents are always able to change my outlook. There is one resident that will mimic my dancing, which I think is adorable. There is another that will say, ‘You’re so pretty!’ This never fails to warm my heart and keep me going.”
34
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
1020_030-047_Wonder Woman.indd 34
BEST SELF ATLANTA
bestselfatlanta.com
10/6/20 5:27 PM
WONDER WOMEN
“
FROM A VERY EARLY AGE, I KNEW I WANTED TO BE A CAREGIVER.
”
AMY DEMPSEY VICE PRESIDENT OF THE RESIDENT EXPERIENCE,
GEORGIAN LAKESIDE SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY
Amy’s community, like many others, went into lockdown in late March to help protect the health of their residents. However, social interaction is a vital part of senior care, especially for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Which, according to Amy, is about half of her residents. “We use the term social distancing, but I have seen it more as being social isolation,” she explains. “Depression and overall decline has been evident.” Since the start of the pandemic, her community has experienced a 25% increase in hospice care. “It has been devastating to watch.”
Photography by Krys Alex Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
Photography by Krys Alex Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
Some people are born knowing what they want to do. Amy Dempsey, Vice President of the Resident Experience at Georgian Lakeside Senior Living Community, is one of those people. “From a very early age, I knew I wanted to be a caregiver,” Amy says. She went on to study nursing at the University of Alabama Tuscaloosa, working in many specialties including oncology, case management, and infusion and IV therapy. Her step into senior care came in 2015, when another community was in need of a Health & Wellness Director. “I’ve always had a soft spot for seniors,” she admits, having moved into her current role at Georgian Lakeside in December of last year.
To combat this problem Amy and her staff have worked hard to implement more activities and ways to keep residents active and engaged including dance, games, even just a little more one-on-one time. Families have also suffered from being apart, so Amy has given out her personal cell number to resident families so that they have been able to FaceTime their loved ones. In addition to emotional care, Amy has increased her efforts to keep an eye on routine care as well, advocating for medically necessary treatments such as dentistry, physical therapy and other health visits that have been hard to facilitate with the stringent protocols in place for seniors. She has also started tracking the weights of her residents, loss of appetite being a sign of depression, and providing them with more calorie-dense snacks like tacos and milkshakes. “A little bit of ice cream never hurt anybody,”she adds. As for the future, Amy believes that COVID testing and wearing masks may become routine in her industry, “just like skin TB tests.” When things go back to a closer ‘normal’ than the seven past months have been, Amy plans to reschedule her vacation to Mexico with her girlfriends, but says “... even a trip to Helen sounds good right about now.” bestselfatlanta.com
1020_030-047_Wonder Woman.indd 35
BEST SELF ATLANTA
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
35
10/6/20 8:10 PM
WONDER WOMEN
“
I TRULY BELIEVE IN THE POWER OF HEALING TOUCH.
”
JANAE FINLEY PHYSICAL THERAPIST,
TURNINGPOINT BREAST CANCER REHABILITATION Janae Finley, 34, says that her ordeal with breast cancer was both a curse and a blessing. “I was referred to TurningPoint to aid in my recovery following surgery and radiation. I came to TurningPoint and never left,” she says. “Approximately one month after completing my therapy I began working at TurningPoint as a physical therapist. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life.” In March, TurningPoint made the decision to switch to primarily remote services for the health of their staff and patients. The transition has been tough for Janae. “I truly believe in the power of healing touch,” she explains. But despite the challenges of going virtual, she says she has definitely seen some good things come from it. “Because we can reach more people, we no longer have a limit on the number of participants who can attend our events,” Janae says, adding that she has been able to assist patients as far as Macon and Rome.
Photography by Krys Alex Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
Though she misses the face-to-face interaction, Janae says that by working hard she’s still able to establish the strong connections of support her patients need during these even more difficult times. “One of my most heartwarming moments during COVID was with a patient who I had previously seen in the clinic,” tells Janae, who reached out to check on them after she received her third surgery. “She proceeded to tell me about her recovery and the last thing she said in her email was, ‘Thanks for being the best PT and friend ever!!' In all of her time on her long breast cancer journey, she had never had anyone just check in with her other than a post-op visit with a doctor. She was so appreciative, and when I did finally see her for a telehealth session three weeks after her surgery, she just wanted to thank me so much for being there for her and hanging in there with her on her long journey. She told me that she would not have even gone through with her last surgery if I didn’t encourage her to take care of herself. Speaking with her that day made me realize that even through an email or a telehealth appointment I can still make a difference in people’s lives.” Once things are safer, Janae plans to take her 4-year-old daughter to Disney World.
36
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
1020_030-047_Wonder Woman.indd 36
BEST SELF ATLANTA
bestselfatlanta.com
10/6/20 5:27 PM
WONDER WOMEN
“
IT HAS BEEN SO INSPIRING TO SEE OUR EMPLOYEES AND OUR COMMUNITY COME TOGETHER DURING THE PANDEMIC.
LORI ELLWOOD
”
OSHA COMPLIANCE DIRECTOR, RESURGENS ORTHOPAEDICS
“The first six weeks of the pandemic are still a blur,” admits Lori, who felt such a responsibility to the safety of the staff and patients that some nights she couldn’t sleep. Fortunately, Resurgens was able to adopt a telehealth platform rather quickly, enabling them to provide their less urgent cases with care. Lori also took steps to ensure that open communication was at the forefront of their efforts, sending daily COVID-19 informational emails to staff and physicians. Photography by Krys Alex Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
Photography by Krys Alex Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
There is a lot of red tape that goes into a pandemic. Just ask Lori Ellwood, RN, ONC, OSHA Compliance Director and Clinical Risk Manager for Resurgens Orthopaedics. At the start of COVID-19 she was given the responsibility of heading up their COVID-19 Response Team. It was now her job to keep up with all of the ever-changing CDC protocols and disseminate that information to all 24 of Resurgens’ facilities. Because Resurgens is an orthopedic practice, their doors were never fully closed. Patients with urgent and emergent conditions, like fractures, and patients who were newly injured during the lockdown were still seen in person. This added an extra layer of responsibility to Lori and the rest of the Response Team.
“It has been so inspiring to see our employees and our community come together during the pandemic,” she says. “The employees sharing [their] ideas on what is working for them, the challenges they are facing and helping each other by sharing their experiences. In addition, our employees have taken to heart that what they do outside of work affects what happens in work. By staying home, limiting their social activities, using masks in public and social distancing, these efforts allow them to decrease the risk of being exposed to COVID-19 and possibly exposing someone at work.” This community spirit also extended outside of the staff, with several patients and a hospital partner donating much needed PPE including N95 masks, shields and gowns at the start of the pandemic. Because of her newfound expertise navigating COVID-19 protocols and safety measures, Lori has recently offered her knowledge and experience to her church’s Pandemic Re-Entry Task Force. When asked what she had learned about herself during the pandemic, Lori responds, “I am a stronger person than I knew.” bestselfatlanta.com
1020_030-047_Wonder Woman.indd 37
BEST SELF ATLANTA
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
37
10/6/20 8:54 PM
WONDER WOMEN
“
THERE HAVE BEEN MANY MOMENTS WE HAVE CELEBRATED WITH PARENTS DURING THE PANDEMIC.
MELANIE MCGRIFF
”
SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST, KIDS’ CREEK THERAPY
Communication is key to success in almost any situation. As a speech language pathologist, Melanie McGriff knows that more than most. For the past 16 years, she has owned and operated Kids’ Creek Therapy in Suwanee. When COVID arrived, her patients didn’t exactly stop needing her services. Fortunately, her practice was already offering teletherapy and they were able to pivot rather quickly to an online platform. Because patients could not be face-to-face with their therapists, Melanie employs about 15, parents had to get much more involved. She even had care packages available to send out to patients with materials and supplies to help them continue their therapy at home. “It has been exciting for parents to see the changes and progress in their children firsthand in their home environments,” says Melanie. “There have been many moments we have celebrated with parents during the pandemic: children who have communicated their first words, made sounds for the first time, learned how to help with small tasks in the kitchen and children who have moved from crawling to standing without assistance.” Photography by Krys Alex Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
While some children have understandably had difficulties with virtual therapy, Melanie says a number of them actually seem to do better with it. “It’s a combination of experiencing therapy through a new delivery method and parent participation,” she says, noting that because parents are taking a much more active role, kids are receiving more consistent practice with their exercises. “Because parents are seeing progress in real time, they have become so much more involved.” Her patients aren’t the only ones Melanie has been taking care of; the wellbeing of the Kids’ Creek staff has been equally important. “A few weeks into the COVID-19 shut down, Melanie sent a personal email to the spouses of all employees,” writes Myraline Darius, the practice’s office manager. In her email she encouraged her staff’s loved ones to be understanding and supportive during this time, explaining that therapy was a very socially interactive job and that many of the staff may feel empty or isolated moving forward. “It is my privilege to have your loved one as an employee,” wrote Melanie. “I am working daily during this time securing all opportunities that we become aware of to help my staff.”
38
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
1020_030-047_Wonder Woman.indd 38
BEST SELF ATLANTA
bestselfatlanta.com
10/6/20 5:27 PM
WONDER WOMEN
“
I WAS HUMBLED TO BE CONSIDERED A HERO.
KENT SANFORD
”
GROCERY STORE WORKER, WHOLE FOODS
When we think of everyday heroes the obvious jobs come to mind first—doctors, firefighters, teachers, the military, etc. But when the coronavirus brought the country to a standstill, a new group of unexpected heroes were there to get us through— grocery store workers. “I was humbled by that title,” recalls Kent Sanford, a worker at the Whole Foods location in North Buckhead.
She has also experienced some of the brighter parts of the pandemic. “An older customer came in and she mentioned to me about shopping for her adult daughter and teenage grandson who had health issues and couldn’t go out in public due to the virus,” Kent recalls. After helping the woman pick out her essentials and escorting her to the checkout line, the customer realized she had misplaced her wallet. “She insisted she leave the cart overflowing with $500+ worth of products and go find her wallet. At that moment in time, I told the cashier that I would pay for her groceries and that she taught me so much about life in that short amount of time with her. We both started to cry!”
Photography by Krys Alex Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
Photography by Krys Alex Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
However, no hero is without their challenges. Working at a grocery store is already a difficult and demanding job, and the pandemic hasn't made it easier. “I’ve witnessed stressed out, very anxious customers grabbing whatever food they could get their hands on,” Kent says. But as the initial buying panic faded and society adjusted to the ‘new normal’, Kent says she has witnessed a positive shift in the attitudes of customers towards her and her coworkers. “Customers have a little bit more patience, especially when we are unloading our u-boats in the grocery aisles. [They] are more understanding if a certain brand is out of stock.”
Despite the positivity from customers the work hasn’t been easy for Kent. The long hours leave her sore all the time and she hasn’t been able to spend much time with her three kids and help them with their schoolwork. But she has found strength to move forward in a quote from one of her personal Wonder Women, Maya Angelou, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Kent says the first chance she can she will either get a massage or take a long vacation away from people. Why not both? bestselfatlanta.com
1020_030-047_Wonder Woman.indd 39
BEST SELF ATLANTA
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
39
10/6/20 5:28 PM
WONDER WOMEN
“
I WAS DRAWN TO THE NONPROFIT WORLD AS A LAW STUDENT AT WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY.
”
ANDREA JARON EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR,
SECOND HELPINGS ATLANTA Food insecurity was already a large concern in Atlanta pre-covid, but since the virus has struck, food pantries and non-profit organizations across the city have seen an enormous jump in requests for assistance. Andrea Jaron, Executive Director of Second Helpings Atlanta, has been hard at work collaborating with other organizations and stretching existing resources to assist the influx of families seeking food. “I was drawn to the nonprofit world as a law student at Wayne State University,” says Andrea, who is originally from Detroit. “While volunteering for the Free Legal Aid Clinic, I realized I could apply my legal acumen and critical thinking skills in places that are committed to making the world a better place for all people.” Andrea started with Second Helpings in September of last year, but has an extensive history in nonprofit work including positions with the Anti-Defamation League, the Weber School and Meals on Wheels Atlanta.
Photography by Krys Alex Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
Normally, Second Helpings’ main goal is to reallocate (they use the term rescued) surplus food from restaurants, stadiums and other food venues to food-insecure families across the city. But by April, many of their main partners had closed their doors. The food service industry was facing massive layoffs and many of the employees of their once partners were on the verge of becoming their newest recipients. So, Andrea and her team partnered up with the Atlanta Community Food Bank and came up with a solution to address both problems—the Atlanta Community Kitchen Project. By recruiting commercial kitchens, the program was able to put dozens of service staff back to work preparing fresh, nutritious meals and delivering them to families in need. “We increased our impact by 50% during the height of the summer because we added an entirely new program,” Andrea says proudly. “We were incredibly fortunate to have the support from dedicated partners including Atlanta Rotary Club, Mercedes Benz, State Farm Arena, Bold Catering and Proof of the Pudding.” The response has been overwhelming enough that the initiative can continue through October with the help of new and existing partnerships. Andrea is a resident of Brookhaven and hopes to soon return to doing yoga classes in-person. “I really miss that community, and while virtual classes are wonderful, practicing with others in the same space really lifts my spirit.”
40
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
1020_030-047_Wonder Woman.indd 40
BEST SELF ATLANTA
bestselfatlanta.com
10/6/20 7:02 PM
WONDER WOMEN
“
I KNEW GOING INTO CLINICALS THAT EMERGENCY MEDICINE WOULD BE THE BEST FIELD FOR ME.
NAAZ MALEK
”
LEAD PHYSICIAN’S ASSISTANT, EMORY DECATUR AND EMORY HILLANDALE HOSPITAL
One of the hardest hit parts of the country during COVID-19 has been New York City, which reached its peak case count in April. Medical professionals across the country put their lives on pause to go and assist, including Naaz Malek, the Lead Physician’s Assistant at Emory Decatur and Emory Hillandale Hospital.
Originally a freelance journalist, Naaz's journey into healthcare was shaped by another crisis—the recession of 2008. “My once upon a time dream of becoming a doctor, which I was too timid to pursue, started to surface as I covered story after story of the devastation brought on to families because of the economy. I felt helpless behind a camera holding a microphone. I wanted to do something.” So she applied to PA school and shortly after graduated with a Master's in Health Sciences from the University of South Alabama. “I enjoy working in a fast-paced environment where there is something new and different to do every day. I knew going into clinicals that emergency medicine would be the best field for me,” says Naaz.
Photography by Krys Alex Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
Photography by Krys Alex Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
“My experience working in the Bronx was very humbling,” she says. “I witnessed an entire city go comatose because of something invisible. Most of my staff members were volunteers from different parts of the country who put their lives on hold to care for COVID-19 patients. ... I am grateful for the opportunity and honored to have been of assistance.”
Like so many in the medical field, Naaz has witnessed the pain and anxiety the lack of social and physical interaction has caused so many. “It hurts me to see my patients alone in their rooms, especially the ones who are elderly, ... don’t speak English as their first language or are adults barely above the age of 18. These patients feel lost, alone and terrified without a loved one at their side.” This change has also affected Naaz and her coworkers. “The pandemic has taken away our most valuable non-verbal means of communication: our personal touch. … I haven’t truly seen my coworkers’ faces in almost six months. I can hear them laugh, but I can’t see them smile.” Recently, Naaz has set up a drive-thru COVID testing site in partnership with Emergent Testing. The site is located at 3110 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road in Suwanee and offers results within 24-48 hours. bestselfatlanta.com
1020_030-047_Wonder Woman.indd 41
BEST SELF ATLANTA
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
41
10/6/20 5:28 PM
WONDER WOMEN
“
I HAVE ALWAYS LOVED KIDS, ESPECIALLY BABIES.
LAUREN FORKEL
”
CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST, NORTHSIDE HOSPITAL
For as long as she can remember, Lauren Forkel has loved kids— especially babies. “It’s a phase I never grew out of,” explains the 35-year-old NICU nurse at Northside Hospital, who recently took on a Clinical Development Specialist role. “In kindergarten I would say I wanted to be a pediatrician until I learned there were whole hospital units just for sick babies.” Lauren graduated in 2012 from Mercer University and has been working at Northside ever since. Like most people in the medical profession, Lauren’s world was turned on its head in late March when the COVID-19 pandemic gained momentum. “There was a time we had to suspend parent visitation completely to protect the babies and staff,” she says. “It was heartbreaking. Parents couldn’t see their babies for weeks and it really added to the dark cloud the pandemic brought to everyone.”
Photography by Krys Alex Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
Unsurprisingly, parents fought hard to see their children, and Lauren, who was going through her own fertility struggles at the time, sympathized with them deeply. “We we’re going against everything we know is good practice: skin-to-skin contact, breastfeeding, all of it,” she explains. But, much like the little fighters in her care, Lauren and the other nurses kept moving forward. “We were able to find creative ways for parents to see their babies through technology,” she says, citing FaceTime and a few other daycare apps that nurses could update with a baby’s weight, feeding times, medications and more. “When parent visitation finally returned, I was able to witness parents see their baby for the first time in four weeks, aside from photos we sent through an app. It was the most joyous thing the nurses had experienced in a while. We all felt the love in the room and just sat and soaked it in with them.” Lauren’s personal Wonder Woman, one of many, she says, is her maternal grandmother, whom she recently lost. “She battled leukemia, lung cancer, breast cancer, significant heart disease, lupus and seizure disorders. She never let these things impede on her love of life and the love for her family. She was feisty and full of life to the very end. She’s taught me what the value of life is and it is a lesson that transcends both my family and my career every day.” Lauren is expecting her first child in March.
42
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
1020_030-047_Wonder Woman.indd 42
BEST SELF ATLANTA
bestselfatlanta.com
10/6/20 5:29 PM
WONDER WOMEN
“
I STILL OPERATE WITH SAFETY FIRST, INTEGRITY AND WITH AN OPEN MIND.
”
CARLAI MOORE POLICE OFFICER,
BROOKHAVEN POLICE DEPARTMENT
Wanting to make a difference is a common reason to go into professions like medicine, teaching and police work. And for some that reasoning comes from a more personal place than others. Officer Carlai Moore, 36, of the Brookhaven Police Department falls into the latter category. “I had a close family member murdered because of mistaken identity. The troubled teen who shot him and the police officers involved is why I chose this field,” Carlai explains. “I believe I can effect change on both sides of an incident, so I became an officer.”
On top of a global pandemic, social unrest has also been a factor in Carlai’s job, though she adds, “To be a black woman and a police officer has always had its challenges, even before the increased racial tensions and scrutiny.” While the landscape of policing has changed, Carlai says her approach has not. “I still operate with safety first, integrity and with an open mind. More than ever it has been my mission to have a good encounter with citizens. Even if I’m taking them to jail, their experience with me will be one of respect and possibly renewed hope that there are good officers still out in the world.”
Photography by Krys Alex Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
Photography by Krys Alex Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
As both a Black woman and an officer, Carlai is used to breaking stereotypes. She has been an officer on the Brookhaven force for three years and also serves on the Honor Guard. “Many in my community don’t always see a black woman as a police officer. Everyday I come to work I’m changing the narrative,” she says.
While the world has changed dramatically for everyone, Carlai says it’s been especially hard on the homeless. “Shelters are closing their doors or limiting their spaces and resources are low. The interaction with the homeless has heightened and each interaction has been tough, because you are limited on the resources you can offer,” she says. So she has made it her personal mission to extend whatever help she can to those that she encounters. “While I may not be able to change their situation, I can offer a hot meal, locations for food pantries or maybe a place to shower and sleep or a mask to protect themselves.” Carlai, who is originally from Kansas City, Kansas, says the first thing she’ll do when things get back to normal is fly home and see her family.
bestselfatlanta.com
1020_030-047_Wonder Woman.indd 43
BEST SELF ATLANTA
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
43
10/6/20 8:11 PM
WONDER WOMEN
“
I AM HAVING TO TEACH MYSELF TO FIND THE SILVER LININGS, THE SMALL VICTORIES IN EACH DAY.
”
MEREDITH HOWARD FULL TIME HOSPICE NURSE AND PART TIME RN, PIEDMONT ATHENS REGIONAL HOSPITAL
After adopting her two youngest children, twin boys, from Ethiopia in 2010, Meredith Howard saw firsthand how large the healthcare disparity can be between nations and she knew she had to do something about it. So, as a mother of five, she and her husband made the decision for her to enroll into an accelerated nursing program through Oakland University in Michigan. Through untold amounts of multi-tasking and hardwork, she earned her degree in just 12 months. She now works as a full time hospice nurse and a part-time RN at Piedmont Athens Regional Hospital. “My floor in the hospital [Piedmont] became the designated COVID unit when the pandemic hit in March, so I have been working with COVID patients since it all started,” says Meredith. Social isolation has been hard for Meredith’s patients and she says it’s been a privilege to serve as their connection to the world, using Zoom and FaceTime to help them keep in touch with family members.
Photography by Krys Alex Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
As mentioned earlier, Meredith has five children and raising them while also putting in long hours for a pandemic hasn’t been a cake walk, but she's grateful for the support she's received from her husband and older children. “First of all, I have an awesome and supportive husband who supported me picking up extra shifts at the hospital once COVID began. Our older kids have also definitely helped out with the younger, helping to keep them occupied at home or helping with online schoolwork during the beginning of the pandemic," she says. Another positive she and her family have experienced is spending more time together. “It was the simple things that we had rarely done as a large, very busy family, that we finally had a chance to do." Meredith originally got into nursing because she wanted to make a difference in countries with less access to healthcare, particularly Ethiopia, since it is where her two youngest are from. Sadly, the twins’ birth mother, Marta, passed away during childbirth due to lack of medical care and their father, who loved them very much, did not have the resources ti care for them. Since their adoption, she and her husband have donated to Clinic at a Time as a passion project. The organization gives aid to existing Ethiopian clinics and grants money to build new ones.
44
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
1020_030-047_Wonder Woman.indd 44
BEST SELF ATLANTA
bestselfatlanta.com
10/6/20 8:11 PM
WONDER WOMEN
“
I BELIEVE THAT CAREGIVERS NEED CARE TOO.
LEIGH TRUSS
”
DIRECTOR OF QUALITY & PATIENT SAFETY, EMORY UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL, EMORY UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL AT WESLEY WOODS AND EMORY UNIVERSITY ORTHOPEDIC & SPINE HOSPITAL “Patient safety is not a job, it’s a way of life. I believe that those who are called to work in healthcare are called in love, to heal,” says Leigh Truss, 43, when asked what motivates her to do her job as Director of Quality & Patient Safety for Emory University Hospital, Emory University Hospital at Wesley Woods and Emory University Orthopedic & Spine Hospital.
With such a compassionate role model to learn from, it is no surprise that Leigh is considered a superhero in her own right by her staff and those in her community. Since the onset of COVID she has worked tirelessly to navigate ever-changing protocols and develop the safest processes for both patients and her staff. “I believe that caregivers need care too: I support self-care, resilience training and work-life balance efforts.”
Photography by Krys Alex Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
Photography by Krys Alex Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
Leigh learned her love of helping others from her mother, Thelma E. Truss, who was a licensed clinical social worker at Grady Hospital for over 30 years. Two years ago, Leigh’s father was disabled by a stroke. “My mother is now his full-time caregiver,” she says. “Watching her aid in his activities of daily living and his rehabilitation has given me a newfound appreciation for her and her superpowers.”
While Leigh was not on the front lines of COVID herself, she was working behind the scenes supporting those that were. “I oversee the Infection Prevention Department,” Leigh explains. “The manager and her team of infection preventionists were inundated with calls 24 hours per day, 7 days a week for some time. Because they are the experts, they got very little down time. Watching them work and experience sleepless nights as a leader was tough. It forced us to get creative with call schedules and shorten the length of time they were on call.” Leigh says that the social unrest during the pandemic was an added weight to her and members of her team. But she was inspired when a medical student at Emory soon created what they called the ‘White Coats for Black Lives Demonstration.’ The idea caught on fast and soon seven hospitals across metro Atlanta were participating, with doctors, nurses and administrative staff gathering outside to kneel for 8 minutes and 46 seconds, the length of time George Floyd was held down by police. Leigh herself participated with coworkers and staff members of her team. bestselfatlanta.com
1020_030-047_Wonder Woman.indd 45
BEST SELF ATLANTA
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
45
10/6/20 8:11 PM
WONDER WOMEN
2020
Thank you to our host partner
Best Self Atlanta would like to recognize Artisan Beauté
and give thanks for their commitment in honoring our 2020 Wonder Women who have been working on the frontlines of the Covid-19 pandemic. Artisan Beauté will host this year's awards ceremony. With social distancing protocols in place or virtually, the ceremony will honor each Wonder Woman with a beautiful award and a best self prize package featuring a special gift from Artisan Beauté. We would like to not only thank but recognize
Dr. Diane Alexander, a “Wonder Woman" in her own right, who has a long history of giving back to those in need. She is involved in several nonprofits within her community, a true Wonder Woman when it comes to giving back and helping others. She’s been actively involved with Hands on Atlanta since its inception in 1989, and supports several community organizations such as, The Atlanta Food Bank, the Anti-Defamation League, The Temple, and The Covenant House. As a true lover of arts and an artist herself, she’s also a supporter of The High Museum of Art, Atlanta Celebrates Photography, The National Museum of Women in the Arts, and The Hambridge Foundation. Dr. Diane Alexander, an award-winning plastic surgeon, successful entrepreneur, wife, and mother, has been practicing plastic surgery in Atlanta since 2000, when she opened the first all-female physician plastic surgery practice in the Southeast. Artisan Plastic Surgery specializes in cosmetic facial surgery, cosmetic breast enhancement and breast cancer reconstruction, body contouring, and state of the art aesthetic services. In November of 2019, she opened Artisan Beauté, a medical spa devoted exclusively to non-invasive aesthetic services, such as facial injections with Botox and fillers, laser skincare services, non-surgical body contouring with Cool Sculpting and Cool Tone, customized facials and exclusive skincare products.
46
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
1020_030-047_Wonder Woman.indd 46
BEST SELF ATLANTA
bestselfatlanta.com
10/6/20 5:30 PM
thank you
First Responders Let us treat you! Book an appointment with us, show us your badge, and receive a FREE Conditioning treatment with any service! Call now or book online I bobsteele.com I (404) 262-9499 I Instagram: @BobSteeleSalon
1020_030-047_Wonder Woman.indd 47
10/6/20 5:30 PM
FIGHT 2020 HEAD ON
WITH FITNESS H E A L T H H A S N E V E R B E E N M O R E I M P O R T A N T, A N D THE CONCOURSE IS THE PERFECT PARTNER “Nine in 10 COVID-19 deaths ... involved people who had ... underlying health conditions such as obesity or diabetes.” - S t a r Tr i b u n e
THE HEALTHIER YOU ARE , THE HEALTHIER WE ALL ARE . M O N T H -TO - M O N T H M E M B E R S H I P S A V A I L A B L E B E F O R E N O V E M B E R 3 0 , W I T H A S L O W A S $ 1 9 E N R O L L M E N T.
READY? FIGHT ON. 8 Concourse Parkway | Sandy Springs, GA 30328 ConcourseClub.com | 770.698.2000 EASY ACCESS Exit 4C off GA400
1020_048-056_PIH.indd 48
10/6/20 6:34 PM
2020 LEARN FROM ATLANTA’S TOP HEALTHCARE EXPERTS
Partners In Health
WEIGHT
MEN’S HEALTH
NUTRITION
LOSS
YOUR HEALTH IN FOCUS SLEEP APNEA
PHYSICAL
THERAPY
HEART HEALTH
FITNESS DENTAL HEALTH
SEXUAL HEALTH
BACK PAIN
WELLNESS
bestselfatlanta.com
1020_048-056_PIH.indd 49
BEST SELF ATLANTA
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
49
10/2/20 9:50 AM
20% off HydraFacial!
WELCOMES
RAY HALL
Through October 31st
PROCEDURES:
CLINICAL DIRECTOR AESTHETIC AND SKIN CARE CENTER
LASER HYDRAFACIAL CHEMICAL PEELS MICRONEEDLING MICROCURRENT FACIALS HAIR REMOVAL DERMAPLANE/FACIALS AND MORE!
FALL SPECIAL
Schedule your visit or complimentary consultation before October 31st with Ray Monday through Friday at the Atlanta Office and enjoy 20% off your first HydraFacial and all recommended products.
404.835.4191
875 Johnson Ferry Rd. NE STE 300 Atlanta, GA 30342 www.MetroDerm.org 1020_048-056_PIH.indd 50
10/2/20 1:09 PM
2020 Partners in Health Summer Sun Protection and Fall Skin Correction By Corrie Alford, M.D.
Summer is officially in full swing and most of us are taking full advantage of the outdoor activities available to us. While exercise and time in nature are healthy endeavors, we must be mindful to protect ourselves from the harmful rays of the sun while we are outdoors. You should wear sunscreen SPF 30 or greater on the most sun exposed areas of your face, neck and arms on a daily basis to protect yourself from the ambient exposures we receive during our day-to-day activities. Sunscreen is needed more widely to all exposed areas of our body when engaging in more prolonged outdoor activities. In order to cover your entire body, one full ounce, or a shot glass full, of sunscreen is required. Be mindful of the water resistance rating of the product you choose and be sure to reapply every 2-3 hours for adequate protection. You can also consider UPF rated clothing which can act as a physical barrier without the application of sunscreen. Much of what we interpret as “aging” is actually a reflection of
accumulated sun exposure to our skin. Wrinkles, brown spots, textural changes and easy bruising are all secondary to the harmful effects of the sun. The best way to combat these changes is through avoidance and preventive measures, such as sunscreen and protective clothing. However, many of us missed those opportunities in our youth and are now reliant on corrective measures. For patients with early changes, topical methods such as antioxidant serums, retinoids, fading agents, hydroxy-acids and light chemical peels can be combined to promote youthful appearing skin. In more advanced stages of photo-damage, deeper chemical peels, laser treatments, PRP (platelet-rich plasma) treatments and micro-needling can be employed to reduce unwanted changes. The best time to perform these procedures is during the fall and winter months when sun exposure is limited. Please call our offices today if you would like to create a plan to reclaim healthy and radiant skin. Dr. Corrie Alford is a board-certified Dermatologist specializing in general and cosmetic dermatology, at MetroDerm P.C. in Atlanta,GA. She is a graduate of Spelman College and earned her medical degree from the Emory University School of Medicine. She completed her dermatology residency training at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in 2006. She is a diplomate of the American Board of Dermatology and a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. Dr. Alford is passionate about providing individualized skin care to enhance the overall health and well-being of her patients.
MetroDerm, P.C. • www.metroderm.org • (404) 257-9933
bestselfatlanta.com
1020_048-056_PIH.indd 51
BEST SELF ATLANTA
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
51
10/2/20 4:04 PM
2020 Partners in Health 5 Signs Your Snoring Isn’t Normal For everyone who is getting nudged or elbowed throughout the night from frustrated bed partners, it is important to know what your snoring means and how you need to treat it. By Marianna Kovitch, DMD, FICOI
Snoring can range from a quiet “purr” to a loud noise that can be confused with a freight train going down the tracks. Snoring is the sound heard when tissues in the throat relax enough and partially block the airway. Anatomical features such as a narrow jaw, crowded teeth and a large tongue along with lifestyle factors such as alcohol consumption and body weight affect the noise level of snoring as they can contribute to the obstruction of airways. Snoring along with any of these symptoms may also be an indication of a sleep disorder: 1.Excessive daytime sleepiness 2.Episodes of stopped breathing during sleep 3.Clenching and grinding your teeth 4.Morning headaches 5.Difficulty concentrating and moodiness Often snoring is easily dismissed as a natural part of aging. While snoring can increase over time with
age and weight gain, it should not be dismissed as normal, as it can be a symptom of sleep apnea. If you or your partner is a frequent loud snorer and has any of the signs above you may want to bring it up to your doctor to see whether or not a sleep study is necessary. Dr. Marianna Kovitch is a dilpomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. Dr. Kovitch completed her Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the Medical College of Georgia after earning her Bachelor of Science degree with honors in Chemistry and recognition in research publication in biochemistry from Georgia State University. Dr. Kovitch has been an active board member of the Academy of General Dentistry since 2013 and has been a contributor to the development of dentistry excellence in Georgia.
Marianna Kovitch, DMD, FICOI • Atlanta Smiles & Wellness • www.GoodNightSleepGA.com • 404.262.7733 52
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
1020_048-056_PIH.indd 52
BEST SELF ATLANTA
bestselfatlanta.com
10/2/20 9:50 AM
2020 Partners in Health Men’s Health Election Year By Scott D. Miller, MD, MBA
You can be the winner! Unlike the uncertainty surrounding a presidential election, you can clinch a victory when it comes to your health over the next four years. As an additional incentive, four lucky readers will receive a $50 Amazon gift certificate (read on). Here is your campaign strategy: Create a solid platform—In order to achieve your health and fitness goals, start with a plan. This plan should include desirable activities that are both reasonable and meaningful to you. Otherwise, your subconscious will not cast a vote of confidence. For instance, you can track your diet and physical activity with a mobile app and review this information weekly. Only make promises you can keep—A life without time management leads to unnecessary stress. Preserve your emotional well-being by splitting lofty goals into more manageable bites and by learning to delegate. When you are unable to fulfill a promise, don’t be too hard on yourself. Just modify the promise or move onto the next one. Conservative or liberal, as long as you’re progressive— Mix it up. Not every meal needs to be perfect. Not every workout session needs to be taxing. If you’re dragging on Monday, make it a super Tuesday. When it comes to improving your health, consistency is the key to progress. Right, left, and independent—Exercise each side of your body separately at least once per week. Interestingly,
in addition to preventing injury, this routine will improve your mental capacity by developing new neural connections between the right and left sides of your brain. Our body requires a lot of checks and balances. Now let’s talk money! First count the number of words in this article that are a part of a political phrase. Then recount them (there may be some debate here). Post your answer on the Best Self Atlanta Facebook page by November 30. All candidates with correct answers (or close) will be entered to win one of four $50 Amazon gift certificates. I’m Dr. Miller, and I approve this message. Look for my article on “Men’s Health Low-Down on Testosterone” in the next issue. Scott D. Miller, MD, MBA, is the Medical Director of Robotic Surgery at Wellstar North Fulton Hospital. He is a urologist with Wellstar Urology in Roswell and has practiced in Atlanta for over 20 years. Wellstar North Fulton Hospital offers the Know Your Heart Screening that can determine your risk of heart disease, stroke and other serious conditions. Call 770-956-STAR (7827) to learn more or schedule an appointment.
Scott D. Miller, MD, MBA Wellstar North Fulton Hospital • (470) 956-4230 • www.ScottDMillerMD.com bestselfatlanta.com
1020_048-056_PIH.indd 53
BEST SELF ATLANTA
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
53
10/2/20 9:50 AM
Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation PHYSICIANS
Krystal Chambers, MD
L. Anita Cone-Sullivan, MD
Roderica Cottrell, MD
Robin Dennis, MD
Marly Dows-Martinez, MD
Michele Perez, MD
Reuben Sloan, MD
Jacob Strong, MD
Kristen Willett, DO
Eli Finkelstein, MD
Orthopaedic Spine Surgeons
Herschel Beker, MD
Christopher Blanchard, DO
Peter Harvey, MD
Tapan Daftari, MD
Paul Jeffords, MD
Thomas Dopson, MD
Vamsi Kancherla, MD
Maurice Goins, MD
E. Scott Middlebrooks, MD
Robert Greenfield, MD
Ali Mortazavi, DO
Bennett Grimm, MD
Jason Velez, DO
THANK YOU ATLANTA FOR VOTING US BEST SPINE CARE PRACTICE FIVE YEARS IN A ROW! • 24 CONVENIENT ATLANTA LOCATIONS • SPECIALIZED SPINE REHABILITATION
• NON-SURGICAL & SURGICAL SPINE CARE • MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY
RESURGENSSPINE.COM 1020_048-056_PIH.indd 54
10/2/20 1:09 PM
2020 Partners in Health Walking Your Way to a Healthier Spine The COVID-19 pandemic has many of us using our homes as a virtual office and school. For some of us, the pandemic has interrupted or made us afraid to continue our exercise routines. Staying active during the pandemic is important for your overall health, including your spine. Walking in your neighborhood, at the Beltline or at your favorite park may be just what you need to help avoid or decrease your neck and back pain while getting some fresh air to help improve your overall mental health.
Nourishment for Spinal Structures: Circulation is key to proper nutrition for the structures of the spine. Walking assists in providing adequate circulation to the spine, especially the discs and soft tissues.
• Walk briskly: After your 5 minute warm-up, set a brisk pace for your walk. While it is important to maintain a brisk pace, you should always be able to carry on a conversation while walking. If you find yourself unable to talk with your walking partner or experience shortness of breath, you should decrease your walking pace. • Start slowly and gradually increase your walking distance. The American Heart Association recommends at least 30 minutes of physical activity at least 5 days a week to decrease your risk of heart disease. This includes walking. While your goal is 30 minutes per day, remember to start out slowly and listen to your body. A good rule of thumb is to start with a 5-minute walk and increase it by 5 minutes every few days. • In order to get the most benefit from your walking, you must maintain proper form. The following tips will assist you in maximizing the benefit from walking and protecting your back to prevent injury: • Keep your head centered between your shoulders. Avoid slouching forward. Always keep your eyes focused straight ahead of you. • Use your abdominal muscles to support your upper body and assist in keeping your spine in proper alignment. To do this, you may want to breathe in slightly and stand with your back straight. • Walk with a natural stride, one that is neither too long nor too short. • Keep your arms close to your body and in motion while you walk. Your arms should stay close to your body, with your elbows bent in a 90-degree angle. Swing your arm front and back in pace with the stride of the opposite leg. Try to keep the motion relaxed, and avoid clenching your hands. • Step carefully! As you take each step, land gently on your foot, walking from the heel to the front of your foot. • Wear comfortable shoes with adequate tread and socks that fit properly.
Stretching/Warm-ups
When Using a Treadmill
Benefits of Walking
Weight Control: Walking as part of an exercise routine can assist in maintaining an optimal weight. Overweight individuals are more likely to experience low back pain as the extra weight stresses the spine, and in return, can increase the likelihood of injury. Improving Flexibility and Posture: Stretching is important before beginning your walking routine. Walking combined with stretching promotes flexibility and improves range of motion and also helps prevent injury to your muscles. Conditioning Your Core Muscles: Core strengthening is one of the secrets to controlling lower back pain. Walking is an easy way to strengthen your deep spine, torso and abdominal (core) muscles. Keeping your body erect and propelling forward during walking also helps promote hip, thigh and leg muscular strength. Preventing Osteoporosis: Weight bearing exercises such as walking, can assist in the prevention of osteoporosis by building and maintaining bone mass. Improving bone mass (density) in turn safeguards against spine fractures and other fractures common to osteoporosis.
Stretching before you begin walking is an important part of the routine. It assists in preparing your joints and muscles for the motion necessary for walking. • Stretching should be gentle, not forced. • Keep the first 5 minutes of your walk at a slow pace. This allows your muscles to warm up slowly, helping to prevent injuries. • Bending forward while walking should be done with caution. It can cause increased pain for some spinal conditions. • Talk with your physician or physical therapist about your stretching routine. He or she can assist you in performing the proper exercises that are safe for your low back condition or pain. Principles for Walking It is important to maximize your benefits for exercise walking. The following principles are an important part to consider for your walking routine:
If you are walking on a treadmill, use the above guidelines. Try to avoid using the handrails as much as possible, except as needed to maintain your balance.
The Final Word Exercise walking is a safe, effective way for many people to be active during the ongoing pandemic. It helps people decrease their risk of low back pain. In addition, it provides an effective way for people with low back pain to stay active and each person can walk at his or her own pace. Please check with your physician before starting your walking program. Your doctor will assist you in determining the level of activity that is safe for you.
Resurgens Spine Center • Non-surgical & Surgical Spine Care • 24 Convenient Atlanta Locations • ResurgensSpine.com
bestselfatlanta.com
1020_048-056_PIH.indd 55
BEST SELF ATLANTA
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
55
10/2/20 4:04 PM
Mis-Diagnosed Hip, Low Back and Groin Pain? ...You may be suffering from Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction The sacroiliac joint is often overlooked by most doctors. Symptoms may include unexplained groin pain, back pain, leg pain, leg inflammation and even sciatic type nerve problems. Many options for treating the S/I joint are available. The goal of these treatments are NOT only pain suppression, but rather to eliminate the cause by correcting mal-aligned structures, improving the health of the joint and reducing the ligament laxity or weakness. Call to schedule an appointment with the physicians at Total HealthCare to see if you may be experiencing sacroiliac joint dysfunction. We are in-network.
Our Treatments Are Covered by
Medicare • Blue Cross • Aetna • Cigna United • Humana • Coventry • Great West and most others.
8460 Holcomb Bridge Rd. Ste. 200 Alpharetta, Ga. 30022 Tel: 770-416-9995
www.AtlantaMedicine.com CALL TODAY FOR APPOINTMENT 1020_048-056_PIH.indd 56
10/2/20 11:35 AM
THE
BRIGHT
SIDE
Taking a different look at mental and emotional health in today’s turbulent times | By Amy Meadows
News anchor Robin Meade speaks directly to us during the 30-second spot for the National Association on Mental Illness (NAMI). She asserts, “You are not alone if you’re feeling
like there’s so much uncertainty to face right now.” Then she notes how important it is to care for ourselves and others right now. It’s a refrain we’ve heard often since this past spring, when a global pandemic gripped the nation and sent the country into lockdown. Suddenly, we began dealing with issues we never could have imagined. And many of us quickly recognized the effects that these turbulent times—from the fear of the coronavirus itself to the ongoing sense of isolation—could have on our mental and emotional well-being. “There’s a lot of anxiety, because we are having to come to terms with that element of uncertainty, a lack of control,” explains Julie Coker, LPC, CPCS, EdS, NCC, co-owner of Petrichor Counseling, LLC.
bestselfatlanta.com
1020_057-061_Mental Health feature.indd 57
BEST SELF ATLANTA
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
57
10/6/20 1:38 PM
“That can be challenging and difficult, but there is an opportunity on the other side of it. It can be grounds to explore some of these things that we have not looked at before.” While the current situation undoubtedly has caused fear and stress for people of all ages, and that must be dealt with head on, it’s also important to look at the positive circumstances that have derived from these unprecedented times. When it comes to your mental health, what you take away from this experience actually could leave you enlightened and on a path that you may not have taken before.
Getting Off the Hamster Wheel For so long, you may have been juggling your own jam-packed schedule with that of your spouse or partner and even your children, who probably were busy with school, sports, playdates, weekend birthday parties and so much more. It might have felt like you were on a hamster wheel and you just couldn’t get off of it. Then one day, the wheel unexpectedly stopped. In all likelihood, it gave you a chance to slow down and bond with your family in a way that you haven’t been able to before. Maybe you’ve played board games, cooked meals or worked on home projects together, and you have been able to develop a new level of closeness. “People have had the time to recognize things they took for granted,” Coker says. “They’re seeing the importance of having a real connection with other people. Because of how prevalent technology is, we’re usually on the phone all the time and plugged in. People are present and in the moment versus being on autopilot. This has given people the opportunity to get to know each other again.” In some instances, it also has given them a chance to get to know themselves. There’s a good chance this downtime has allowed you to stop and focus on your mental health. “Being quarantined forces us to stay in place, which forces us to deal with our realities,” notes Nikeisha Whatley-León, Director of Behavioral Services for Northside Hospital.
“This means we don’t have the same distractions, and we can’t run from ourselves, so to speak. People are able to take the time to work through their emotions. It’s up to us whether we choose to cope in the healthiest way. [This situation] definitely makes us face the facts in a lot of ways and on so many levels.” Tatiana Matthews, MS, LPC, CRS, Clinical Director of Atlanta Specialized Care, explains that this time at home has provided many people with a chance to reflect and practice mindful awareness. “For the first time, life has slowed down. We can’t use our job or our kids’ sports as a distraction,” she Did you know observes, noting that some people have actually that coloring can been able to identify troubling coping mechanisms potentially lower that they may have ignored before. From drinking stress and anxiety too heavily to pulling away from peers and loved ones, levels? certain actions ultimately can be detrimental—and
58
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
1020_057-061_Mental Health feature.indd 58
BEST SELF ATLANTA
bestselfatlanta.com
10/6/20 1:38 PM
now is the time to recognize them. “We have to cope in a way that creates healthy long-term outcomes instead of immediate short-term gratification,” Matthews continues.
“We cannot control what we cannot control, but we can ask ourselves, ‘How can I fuel myself in a way that will help me work towards my longterm goal?’ We have to work on relinquishing control in a healthy way, and we have to take care of ourselves so we can go with the flow.”
A New Level of Innovation If you’ve decided that it’s time to seek professional help for your mental health issues during this trying time, then you’ve discovered how the mental health profession has been able to adapt to the needs of patients everywhere. “This situation has created innovation in our industry,” Matthews says. “We have had to be nimble and flexible, and we’re doing things we’ve never done before.”
According to Coker, the telehealth experience is very similar to in-person therapy, although there is a bit of a learning curve and the always-present issues with technology. Yet, mental health professionals have worked hard to ensure that clients feel safe and secure in this new and necessary Listening to slow online environment and receive the help tempo music, 50-60 they need. They also have been able to beats per minute, can reach even more patients than ever before. help to ease anxiety. “Virtual sessions have a tremendous benefit, and they can now be accessed in areas that may not have therapists, such as rural locations,” she observes. “It’s allowed the industry to provide access to marginalized people.”
bestselfatlanta.com
1020_057-061_Mental Health feature.indd 59
It’s not surprising that the topic of mental health has come to the forefront during these unprecedented times. Mental health issues are on the rise, with the U.S. Census Bureau reporting that a third of Americans are now showing signs of clinical depression and anxiety amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Fortunately, there are ways to cope with the uncertainty and trepidation that naturally go along with what we are all facing today. Here, we look at five tools that will help you center yourself and lift your spirits each and every day.
1. Your Smartphone
Namely, when COVID-19 became a widespread concern, mental health professionals were given the opportunity to begin providing essential services via HIPAA-compliant telehealth platforms. “Most agencies are offering talk therapy and medication management via telehealth. Access to care has been very successful for our department in reaching patients and being sure their services were not interrupted,” Whatley-León explains. “This has been shown to be successful with access to care across the country for our profession.”
The ability to maintain therapy for someone who was seeking it prior to quarantine, as well as the opportunity to offer it to someone who may never have sought it before, has been key to helping people address mental health concerns over the last
5
Tools to Help You Cope with Anxiety and Depression During COVID
We’ve all been told that too much screen time can be detrimental to our health. But in this instance, your phone could be just what you need to deal with depression or anxiety. According to Healthline Media, in addition to providing access to everything from mood trackers to online support communities, the camera on your phone can offer a new perspective. Go outside, find something beautiful and take a picture. It not only will get you up and moving, but it will also give you a few moments to focus on something positive.
2. Music
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, music can be an excellent tool for coping with depression or anxiety. Focusing on music that you enjoy will allow you to replace the noise created by the news and social media. Create a playlist of your favorite tunes or do some research and find new music that you may never have experienced before. You can also connect with people around you by asking for suggestions to add to your playlist.
BEST SELF ATLANTA
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
59
10/6/20 8:12 PM
several months. “Consistency and structure are key,” Matthews asserts. “We are a source of strength and support for our clients.” And as the lockdowns are lifted and offices slowly start to reopen, many practices have found ways to offer a hybrid version of their counseling services, blending telehealth and in-person sessions. “There have been positive changes, and the changes will continue,” she adds.
What’s Next? As the country continues to reopen, it’s important to take things slowly as we reemerge from quarantine. The last several months have been traumatic for so many of us, and it makes complete sense to feel
“It’s key to gradually go back into the new normal. Be okay with speaking out when you’re uncomfortable with certain situations, as it can be anxietyprovoking given the situation,” Whatley-León
apprehensive about returning to what we consider normal.
says. “Some people may experience [mental health] symptoms post-COVID as well. It’s important to recognize when you’re not feeling like yourself. Set healthy boundaries so that you have the time to respond to your own needs.” “You’re going to have to feel the fear—that’s the only way through,” Matthews advises. “It’s like exposure therapy. You have to do something until it’s not as scary. Don’t ignore your gut instincts to protect yourself. It’s okay to give yourself time and continue to assess. But you also have to figure out how much of your response is avoidance behavior and how much is your body saying something just Five to fifteen isn’t right for minutes of sun you.” several times a
3. Walking
Exercise is one of the top tools for coping with mental health issues. Of course, with gyms closed and workout buddies often unavailable, getting enough physical activity to boost your mental health can be a challenge. But nothing is stopping you from taking a walk. Whether it’s around your neighborhood or on a local trail, walking is one of the easiest and most effective mood boosters. You’ll enjoy fresh air, a change of scenery and a chance to work on both your physical and mental well-being simultaneously.
4. Virtual Tours
We’re not leaving the house often these days, but that doesn’t mean you can’t experience some great things. Countless public venues are offering virtual tours of their spaces and facilities. As Healthline Media notes, museums, national parks, zoos and more are using technology to give you a chance to be there without actually being there. Seeing a spectacular piece of artwork or an adorable fuzzy creature can give you a moment of levity and muchneeded respite from our current situation.
5. Contributing to Others
Meru Health notes that taking the focus off of yourself and placing it on helping others can greatly benefit your emotional well-being. You can donate to your favorite cause, find ways to volunteer (either safely inperson or through digital means), help a neighbor and more. The act of doing something kind for someone else will give you a sense of control and purpose.
week can boost
Coker your overall recommends mood. learning from the things you have found out about yourself and building on those as you move into the upcoming months.
60
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
1020_057-061_Mental Health feature.indd 60
BEST SELF ATLANTA
bestselfatlanta.com
10/6/20 1:38 PM
She also points to an array of resources and strategies for maintaining your mental and emotional health. From practicing meditation and using mindfulness apps on your smartphone to journaling and adopting healthy lifestyle habits, there are many beneficial things you can do to manage stress and maintain a calm demeanor. “Take things as they come and work on developing your self-knowledge,” she says. “It’s about figuring out what works best for us personally to create a sense of meaning day-to-day and get the rest, care and recuperation that we need.” Whatley-León adds that finding joy and balance are key to managing your mental health now and in the future. And many of us have finally been able to figure out how to do that thanks to the ability to slow down. “Stay connected to those who bring you joy and make you laugh. Get out and take walks; we need fresh air. Join online
Explore your interests and don’t be afraid to try something different. Remember to set limits if you’re working from home; you need work-life balance more now than ever. Have family night and date night to keep dance classes and listen to upbeat music.
your family well. We need things to look forward to,” she concludes. “It’s key to recharge, reconnect and reframe negative thoughts. These are the tools to thriving during these times. I think a positive development will include being able to experience the empowerment of not just surviving, but thriving through a pandemic.”
For more information: Atlanta Specialized Care 770.815.6853 www.atlantaspecializedcare.com
Northside Hospital Behavioral Health Services 404.851.8960 www.northside.com/behavioralhealth
Petrichor Counseling, LLC 470.736.9595 www.petrichorcounseling.com
Helping survivors of
Domestic Violence
4405 Northside Parkway | Suite 110 Atlanta, GA 30327 | 404.262.7733
represents top talent in the fields of Photo by: Sara Hanna
HAIR, MAKEUP, NAILS, AND WARDROBE.
BEFORE
AFTER
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month
give the gift of a smile! The Green Room Agency represents award winning image creators that are ready to help you become your best self! Let us handle all your hair, makeup and wardrobe needs!
Your Contributions will go to the Atlanta Smiles Foundation
Teeth Whitening Special $200.00 (reg. $375.00)
Follow us on FB/IG @TheGreenRoomAgency thegreenroomagency.com
Take home Custom Trays & Whitening Solution
678.772.5088 678.772.5088
Refer 2 Friends and when they receive their whitening system You will get ONE FREE for you!
As seen on NBC, CNN, Bravo, TVOne, and more!
bestselfatlanta.com
1020_057-061_Mental Health feature.indd 61
BEST SELF ATLANTA
ZOOM Special $395.00 (reg. $600.00) In-Office Teeth Whitening (Includes Custom Trays & Solution) New Patients are Welcome!
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
61
10/6/20 1:39 PM
{Give Back} Saving the world, one family at a time Jennifer Barnes, of the Barnes Young Team at Keller Williams Peachtree Road, knows a thing or two about nonprofits. She has given her time to Every Woman Works, an organization that helps impoverished women from difficult circumstances learn self-sufficiency, for over ten years and served as a member of their board. When the coronavirus hit, she used this experience to launch Solidarity Sandy Springs, a pop-up food pantry for Sandy Springs families in need. Since late March she has spent almost everyday at Solidarity. “My team told me, ‘Y’all are doing something so impacting, we support you 100% we have you covered!’” she says. On their first day, Solidarity was only able to serve 60 families before running out of food. Another 30 families were still waiting in line. Jennifer, along with fellow founders Erin Olivier and Sonia Simon, and their team of faithful volunteers used every connection they had to mobilizefor food and needed items. The following day they fed over 100 families with no one left waiting.
JENNIFER BARNES
{ {
According to Jennifer, “Everything that has happened to us, from the very beginning, has been like divine intervention.” All of the pantry’s three locations were donated spaces, Under the Cork Tree, Solidarity Plaza and their current location at the former Publix in the Prado. Many of the organization’s own volunteers are members of the families that receive supplies. One such member, Maria Bravo, was hired to be their food manager; she coordinates the procurement and pricing of their fresh produce. Recently, the pantry’s 10,000th family was served. Market days are every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, feeding around 150-200 homes each day. Solidarity Sandy Springs is set up to be a market shopping experience providing food choices and dignity for the hardworking people they serve. Shoppers browse the available produce, canned goods, diapers and hygiene products set out on tables, picking out what they need for their family. Because Solidarity serves a large Latin population, they make it a point to provide culturally appropriate foods such as plantains, tomatillos and avocados.
“My team told me, ‘You go save the world, we’ll take care of the business.’”
Originally Solidarity was only planning to stay open through May, but the
62
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
1020_062-064 Give Back-Solidarity Sandy Springs.indd 62
BEST SELF ATLANTA
Photography by (top right) Cork Brothers Studio.
ongoing pandemic has had them extend their operation at least through December. It cost around $2,500 a day to keep the pantry running, with 98% of funds going toward inventory purchase. For a list of needed items or to donate money, visit www.solidaritysandysprings.com
bestselfatlanta.com
10/6/20 8:54 PM
SALINE BREAST IMPLANTS
$3,200
SILICONE BREAST IMPLANTS
$4,200
IDEAL® BREAST IMPLANTS
$4,700
Restrictions May Apply
FACE
NON-SURGICAL
Nose Contouring
Thermi RFTM for skin tightening
BotoxTM $11 a unit Fillers Start at $425 per syringe JuvedermTM SculptraTM RestylaneTM RadiesseTM Chemical Peels Skin Care Fractional Laser Resurfacing Thermi VaTM KybellaTM Plasma Pen Microblading Lip Blush
IMAGING
HAIR RESTORATION
Face Lift Eyelid Surgery Fat Grafting
BREAST Breast Enlargement Breast Reduction/Lift Male Breast Reduction
BODY Aqualipo® Liposuction Tummy Tuck
Vectra 3D Imaging
ARTAS robotic hair restoration
Now Offering
Robotic Hair Restoration! ROBERT A. COLGROVE, JR. M.D. Board Certified - Plastic Surgeon 25 Years of Experience
Actual Patient 1020_062-064 Give Back-Solidarity Sandy Springs.indd 63
770.955.9000 • www.colgrove.com 10/2/20 9:51 AM
1020_062-064 Give Back-Solidarity Sandy Springs.indd 64
10/2/20 2:18 PM