Issue 12 - CAREGIVER Magazine - Providing Options and Support

CAREGIVER PROVIDING OPTIONS AND SUPPORT

Issue 12

OKLAHOMA

SENIOR GAMES 2020 CONNECTING During COVID

HEALTHY

Lifestyle Profiles

MINUTEMEN With Pens

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CONTENT The Golden Life 08 Meet Buck & Janet Thornton

ASK Lisa

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Is It A Scam?

Living With Purpose

16

Be Still and Know I Am There

My Patient Advocate Who Advocates For You?

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26 Better With Age

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Look what Dot’s Still Got at 99

30 Remote Access Telehealth: VA Video Connect

32 On The Lighter Side Do You Know Me?

Senior Athletes Winning 20 34 We The People Defeating Diabetes With FUN! Minutemen With Pens

36 Community Heartbeat It’s What You Can Be

40 Learn Herbal Alternatives Cilantro is Spanish for Coriander

44 Cannacian’s Corner

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Therapy Is Not Terminal!

46 Remember When Summer Meant FUN?

CAREGIVER PROVIDING

46

RT ND SUPPO OPTIONS A Y FREE COP

Issue 12

On the Cover: OKLAHOMA

SENIOR GAMES 202 G

CONNECTIN During COVID

HEALTHY

Lifestyle Profiles

MINUTEMEN With Pens

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It is with great pleasure that we get to share the amazing story of Buck and Janet Thorton with our CAREGIVER family. They are two of the most inspirational and vivacious people we’ve featured. Their faith, love for one another, along with how they embrace healthy living and serving Oklahoma is truly incredible. What an honor to have them on this month’s cover as Summer is in full swing. They inspire us all to evaluate our wholebeing approach to health and wellness ; physically, emotionally and spiritually. To know them is to love and admire them.

Meet them for yourself on Page 8.

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Dear Readers, I hope you are all well and in good spirits. 2020 has definitely been a year for the record books. I hope it proves to be a once in a lifetime experience. In this issue of CAREGIVER Magazine, we are focusing on healthy living and getting Better With Age. If there is ever a time in our lives to be grounded in our faith, balanced in our emotions and focusing on being the best we can be, it is right now. I hope this issue will give you inspiration and encouragement to overcome the obstacles in your daily life.

A little mental trick I have relied on from time to time over the past 15 years is; when life is almost too much to bear and my hope tank is very low, I pour my worries and stresses through my proverbial sieve of life and see what sticks to the wires. The really big hardships in most of our lives are health problems, relationship struggles, financial concerns or the declining health (and eventual death) of a close loved one.

For me, breaking my day into blocks of time has helped me regain balance and come through the struggle a better, stronger person. For instance, I would wake-up and not look too far down the road - only requiring myself to get through noon with a realistic checklist, on actual paper, so I could have the satisfaction of checking my tasks off of the list of objectives I knew had to be accomplished. Then around lunch, I would ask myself what has to be completed by 5pm.

From there I would make a new checklist and set out to tackle those tasks, marking them off as I go. My last two blocks were 5pm-8pm and 8pm-bedtime. Re-evaluating my daily expectations, goals and objectives for myself, making sure my priorities were straight. After a week or two, I would pour my concerns through my “finer grain sieve” and once again see what stuck to the wires and begin tackling those concerns - repeating the steps from above.

My day always started with two cups of coffee in the least stressful room of the house and reading a few scriptures from my Bible. And yes, each cup of coffee had a line on the list I could check off. That first dose of positive encouragement made the rest of the day possible. When I felt so alone and like no one was there for me but me. Reading my Bible first thing in the morning reminded me I wasn’t alone and I would make it.

We all have 24 hours in a day. As adults, we enjoy the freedom to decide how we will occupy those hours. For the majority of us, work and family take most of our day. But incorporating healthier habits, better food choices, moving more, getting a little sunshine and surrounding ourselves with people who are kind and good to us can make life truly great, no matter what is going on in the world around us. I use a checklist every day it has been what works best for me.

P.O. Box 721673 Oklahoma City, OK 73172 EDITORIAL Editor-In-Chief LASHANYA NASH Managing Editor MICHAEL E. BROWNING Art Director ANGELA BLAKE Writers MICHAEL E. BROWNING DENISE HEATH ABIGAIL Q. HILL GREG LAMBERSON ROBBIE LAMBERSON LASHANYA NASH LIONWOOD RESIDENTS LISA SYDNOR AUDREY M. UMHOEFER Photographers CHAD HUNTER EMBERLEE NASH WYNELLE RECORD Community Outreach LISA SYDNOR Social Media Coordinator WYNELLE RECORD Layout WISE MARKETING ADVERTISING Publisher LASHANYA NASH 405.532.6057 l.nash@caregiveroklahoma.com

Business Development MICHAEL E. BROWNING 405.906.5405 m.browning@caregiveroklahoma.com

Finding ways to handle the chaos and challenges of everyday life is essential for managing life’s stress and worries - which can be the most crippling and damaging thing in life to our well-being.

May God bless you, and may you find peace and joy in the little things, like a crossed out cup of coffee.

985.662.6581 a.blake@caregiveroklahoma.com

Accounting ANDREA O’HAIR

Sincerely,

LaShanya L. Nash

Digital Copy:

Publisher 6 CAREGIVER Magazine

Account Executive ANGELA BLAKE

CaregiverOklahoma.com

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THE

GOLDEN LIFE

By Michael Edward Browning

Buck and Janet Thornton are living a golden life near the tees and greens of Muskogee Golf (& Country) Club. When the Oklahoma Senior Games come to Muskogee this September for the Bowling and Golf events, Buck, a Golden Gloves boxer in his youth, will have a distinctive home course advantage in the golf competition. He’s 82 now, so the bracket may not have an overly large pool of contestants, but he’s still going to swing those clubs like they are extensions of his anatomy, like a pro!

Buck and Janet grew up riding the same Muskogee school bus but had vastly different approaches to fitness throughout their lives. Janet’s fitness regime has been an off-again/on-again process while Buck has been full bore from day one I suppose. Even though he had plenty of siblings to share the cowmilking and other chores with, he used to run home from school, just for “kicks”. The real kicker is just how well he’s still “kicking it”!

By himself or on a team, Buck was always playing around somehow. Early on he was caddying and golfing (free rounds for caddies on Mondays) by twelve, boxing in Golden Gloves by 14 - along with varsity football and basketball – eventually going pro in the ring later, in his 20’s. He was such a ‘knockout’ sensation; he just missed being on the 1968 Olympics team by one decision. During his professional boxing career he was refereed by Joltin’ Joe Frazier and got to shake hands with Cassius Clay (Muhammad Ali) on that same day.

“I had quite a few knockouts. When I was at Eufala at the Golden Gloves, I went from welter-weight, that’s 147; then I went to middle-weight, was 160; then I went to light-heavy, I was 175; and from there I went up to heavy-weight. I won all four classes there in four years’ time.”

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Good thing for all us senior men thinking about trying out these Senior Games that there’s no boxing events.

“They used to have a Tough Man contest here in Muskogee, where it’s just people coming in thinking they’re tough, then they’d put you in the ring with somebody. It was kinda fun in a way, you know.”

“And he was up in his 40’s when he was doing some of that stuff! They still have that here,” confides Janet. “Where?” roars Buck. “I’ll go to another one! I don’t know where it is!”

Laughter fills the house again.

“A few years ago we went to watch it. He wanted to fight in it!” Janet, you know there’s no keeping a good man down!

Ever the roaming Oklahoman, when he “settled” into his roughneck career on the pipelines, he brought his bag of clubs (as well as his gloves – as you can clearly see from the Alaska work yard photos) to every state but three, playing courses all over the country.

Meanwhile, Janet was having a very different relationship with sports and exercise through her early life.

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“When I was young, I lived in the country, we rode the same school bus, but I really wasn’t athletic at all. I grew up and mowed the yard and did the laundry and took care of the house because both of my parents worked. So I did not start working out until I had my first child. Jack LaLanne was on, so every morning at nine o’clock I did my ‘Jack LaLanne’. Several years went by and I really did not get into athletics or anything until I was in my 30’s.”

She continues, “I started running a mile, then I got into playing racquetball and tennis and then through my friendships I started doing a lot of athletic things.

I loved racquetball, that was my favorite. But as I got older and blew my arm out, I had to find something else to do, so I ran for a long time. I ran the Tulsa Run several times and then I ran the Fiesta Bowl Marathon.

And then your legs give out.”

“So I started riding bikes. I’ve ridden bikes for years and I’ve loved that you can be social; you can go places, you can see things and so I rode freewheel across the state for a few years until I had to stop a few years ago because I have arthritis. So now I walk. When your knees are gone and your elbows are gone and your hands have arthritis you just have to figure out, “What can I do now?”

Then, don’t forget to DO IT! “In 1984, my friend Monika (who was one of the ladies on the cover of CAREGIVER Magazine, Issue 3, which you can read for free at CaregiverOklahoma.com/ digital-issues) told me about a club for athletes called Stotan’s [Stoic-Spartans?] You had to be over 40 and it required that you:

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• Run a Marathon • Swim a Mile • Climb a Mountain in Excess of 14,000 feet • Ride a Bike 200 Miles in Two Days “She said only one woman has qualified. In 1986, together, we swam that mile, climbed Pikes Peak, pedaled those 200 miles and ran a marathon. I never thought I could do that when she first started talking about it. We were both 44 then.”

Which is a testament to, “Yes, you can!”

Buck and Janet’s annual involvement in Oklahoma Senior Games began about the same time as their commitment to each other. Since these two joined worlds in 2006, it’s been sunshine and roses. Plus lots of gold! Janet pulled a cycling gold medal from the Oklahoma Senior Games in 2008. Having qualified for Nationals every year so far in golf, plus a couple years for weight lifting, Buck has too many medals to count.

Gold medalists each, and truly golden to behold, these two.

They are happy to share one of the core keys to their success. They have initiated a spiritual practice, a daily ritual that binds their minds and hearts to one, unified goal. They speak this prayer aloud together every day, structuring their lives anew each morning around these words:

I will live out my days in good health With a clear mind

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Good Memory Clarity of thought My mind is alert My senses are sharp And my youth is being restored This is the day the Lord hath made I will rejoice and be glad in it.

Although there was a few years age difference, both grew up in Muskogee as Emanuel Baptist youth, then Janet came with her parents and piano playing to help ignite the new congregation forming at Southeast Baptist Church which they now attend at York and Hancock.

“Buck and I were both raised in the church.”

States Janet. “What attracted me and why I married Buck is I wanted a spiritual leader. I wanted a husband that would go to church with me - and that would live the life, and be the kind of person I knew I should be.” To which, Buck jabs back laughing with, “That’s not what you told me!”

Laughter being the best medicine, I also see the concept and activity of “play” as a major contributor to a long, happy life. Traveling around the states and rubbing elbows with other active seniors is accessible fun that delivers on many levels. Balanced with play of course, comes service. A great life is one lived with heaping portions of both, hopefully centralized around something you really love.

The more medals Buck was collecting in the contests, the more involved Janet became with the Oklahoma Senior Games organization. About the time that Kathleen Fitzgerald came on board as Executive Director for Oklahoma in 2016, “I got involved with the sponsorships, so now I sell sponsorships and write grants for the Oklahoma Senior Games, as well as work on the registration booklet. Buck and I are responsible for the Bowling and Golf tournaments being held in Muskogee this year.”

Time changes things.

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hand-selected stones he has artfully embellished, putting his own twist on the Pet Rock.

Muskogee was all set to join Yukon in having their own local Senior Games, “We had it started, we were going to have it in June, then all this [lockdown] happened,” Janet tells us. “So now they’re going to have it next year. It’s kind of fun helping start all this stuff and be a part of it all. I do the golf tournament and the bowling tournament and in the past I’ve done the gala.” It’s been decided that there will be no closing gala dinner this year due to lockdown policies.

“Even through this period of time, we’ve both found outlets that we can still do stuff. Almost daily, when we didn’t have other things to do. I made a picnic and we would go to the lake or the park somewhere or take a drive. We went somewhere everyday just to get out of the house.”

Love, laughter and sunshine, sounds like possibly the oldest recipe out there for human success. Ample amounts of all three are readily apparent in this household. Along with activity. My guess is that our interview was the longest that Buck has sat on his own couch in years. This team is in perpetual motion. Hard to believe that Buck has time on his hands for a flourishing side-business selling

He picked up his cache of rock on one of this dynamic duo’s Senior Games trips to Laughlin, Nevada. Janet looked at him incredulously when they were walking in the Mohave Desert and Buck announces, “I’m bringing a bunch of these home to paint!” They’ve also traveled to compete and enjoy Texas, Arizona, Kansas, Ohio, Tennessee, and New Mexico, fully expecting to be in Florida next year.

There’s still time to join them at The National Senior Games in Fort Lauderdale next November 5-18, by qualifying in your age bracket (in any of the two dozen plus events listed on Page 29) at The Oklahoma Senior Games happening statewide between September 5-November 7, 2020.

If you’re still concerned about catching COVID this autumn, it’s an annual challenge, jump in whenever you’re feeling ready!

A stronger, fitter, happier you could be waiting for your commitment, your willingness to take that first step, stride, pedal or swing. Fun will follow. A competition is not required to see gains. The true gold comes when you repeat this daily until it becomes a habitual way of being, your active hobby. However, if you’re up for a contest, the senior arena awaits. Are you ready to go for the gold in life?

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ASK Lisa

By Lisa Sydnor

The staff of CAREGIVER Magazine is committed to connecting those in need with services and programs.

If you have a question, call 405-314-7840 or email l.sydnor@caregiveroklahoma.com Include your name and phone number in the message.

It’s A SCAM! Scam! Scam! It seems like everyone is running a scam.

Last week I received a call – the caller ID said IRS – so I answered. A recording stated I needed to respond to this call immediately regarding fraudulent activities in which I was a party to while living in Texas. I returned the call and I got a recording stating I should leave my contact information and expect a call. Well, since I know I did not participate in any fraudulent activities while living in Texas - or for that matter, when I’ve lived in Oklahoma, or Montana, or Wyoming - I hung up. Then, I reported the call to the Attorney General’s Office.

I discontinued cable service at the trailer my family has on the lake. They sent me a box to return the converter.

Then early this week, I received an email telling me to recycle the converter, NOT to return it as originally told.

With conflicting instructions, I was confused as to which I should follow. I called the cable company asking which process they wanted me to follow. Their customer service representative asked me to print the email instructing me to recycle, then include it in the box and return the converter – as originally instructed. Guess it wasn’t legitimate!

Recently a friend responded to an ad on Craigslist regarding a home for rent. It seems the owner had listed

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with a realtor and became upset with the realtor and was now handling himself. He instructed her to NOT contact the realtor, to only text him, the owner. It was a beautiful home, in the perfect area and at a great price.

When she inquired about touring the home she was told the owner is out of town. She should go to his bank, deposit first month’s rent and security deposit into his account and a lease and keys would arrive at her home within 24 hours. Does this sound like a scam to you? This is a scam. She reported this listing to Craigslist and - I hope - to the OAG’s office.

Basically, if it seems too good to be true – it is! Never deposit funds into someone else’s account. Don’t give out your personal information to anyone. If you question instructions, call the company.

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Ask questions. Be suspicious! Take care of you. Also, report to the source if you are concerned, uncomfortable or have questions. The Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office encourages you to report to them all suspicious activities or possible scams. They will check it out. (www.oag.ok.gov)

In an earlier issue, we shared information on scams and how to respond and report. It is important enough to include in this issue as well. The Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office continues to recommend,

“The best way to protect yourself is if you do not recognize a number do not answer it. If you do answer it and they start asking for money or personal information, simply hang up. We encourage consumers to report any suspicious calls, emails, or messages to us; even if they are uncertain if it’s legitimate or not.”

“In addition to reporting the information to us, you can also report it to the Federal Trade Commission. (www.ftc.gov) The Federal Trade Commission’s website has a lot of great information on various scams and how to protect yourself and your loved ones. Consumers can always call our office (405-521-3921) and leave any phone numbers along with information on our voicemail system.”

Christina Sibley

B. S. Health Studies (Gerontology) 20 Years Healthcare Experience

5+ years as Healthcare Educator

Medicare Education is my top priority!

www.sibleyinsures.com

405.655.6098

Stay sharp, walk by faith and don’t let yourself get scammed!

Find the services you need in Oklahoma at CaregiverNearYou.com

15 15

Living With Purpose

So naturally, my next fear was, “Who would take care of my children when I died?” As time passed and my children grew older, this fear subsided. It may have been an irrational fear, but it was very real to me. Fear is a strange and frightening thing. It can cause us to do things we would never otherwise do. It’s an unpleasant emotion. It grabs you, stops you in your tracks, it knocks you down. Fear makes your mind believe there is an immediate threat to you.

Outside forces can be scary but real – like someone breaking into your home, hurting you and destroying your belongings.

Then what if you are living alone, barely able to take care of yourself, and you fear becoming the victim of abuse? Fear can cause us to hide, isolate, and forgo a life of joy and happiness.

Be Still and Know That I Am There

By Denise Heath In the early 1980’s, my husband and I divorced.

Suddenly, I was a single mother raising three young boys on my own. I was overcome by fears, the greatest of which was that somehow, I would die.

To this day, I don’t know why I felt that way but I did. And my mind would not let it go.

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There is the very real fear of getting sick now - losing control! Fear weakens our immune system and can lead to a variety of physical ailments, like cardiovascular disease and gastrointestinal problems, to name just two. It has the power to accelerate aging and lead to premature death.

Fear will cause you to become anxious, and fill you with worry for the unknown. It can easily become an unwelcome, daily companion. If we are honest, we must admit that fear - at one time or another - has consumed us all. Fear changes you.

I have found that as I’ve gotten older, my fears have changed.

Now, I worry about my health. My fear of dying is still there, and leaving my loved ones behind. I haven’t accomplished all that I would have liked to in my life.

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I have regrets. I need to be forgiven for wrongs I have committed. And that brings me to a story that has always touched me deeply. It was 1994 and I was working at hospice. One day, I received an urgent phone call.

“Denise, we need your help! We have a patient, Linda, who is refusing to die. She was a battered woman who shot and killed her husband twenty-eight years ago. We know you can help her. You will know what to say to her.”

“But I’m on vacation,” I protested, “and it’s my son’s birthday.” Then, “I’m sorry, Denise. There’s no one else.” So I called the family and talked with Linda’s son. For five long weeks, Linda had lain near death. But she would not let go.

“Twenty-eight years ago, Mom shot and killed our dad,” he explained. “He drank too much and beat her. She has never dealt with what happened. She has never so much as discussed it. I know it’s eating her up and has been all these years. Mom’s afraid to die because she does not believe that she’s worthy to go to Heaven.”

When I arrived, he ushered me into her bedroom. I had never seen anything like this before. She looked like a survivor of the Holocaust. She had dark circles under her sunken eyes; her skin looked like yellow parchment. She appeared to be decaying from the inside out. I sat down at her bedside.

“Linda,” I said softly, “sometimes we are put in situations that we have no control over. Sometimes we are forced to make choices that no one should have to make. Sometimes we do things because we can see no other way out. Linda, your son has told me that you believed that this was the only way you could protect your family. God loves you.

God forgives you. Can you forgive yourself? Can you accept God’s love?”

After a while, I could see that she began to relax. The tension slowly drained from her face. I continued to talk to her for thirty minutes. Then I spoke with her three children. We prayed. The children told her how much they loved her and supported her. They wept. At 4:00 the next morning, Linda finally let go and died peacefully.

What do you fear? 1 John, 4:18 tells us,

“Perfect love casts out all fear.” (RSV)

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When God is a part of your life, fear has a way of becoming smaller, less consuming, because we know that God is with us in all situations and circumstances. He will see us through. He will give us strength and courage.

Fear is not from God. Think about it. Fear comes and goes throughout our life. But when God is there, fear cannot control us.

“Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalms 46:10 KJV) www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu Hospice, A Labor of Love, Glavan, Longanacre, Spivey, Chalice Press, 1999, pgs 29 -30.

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17

MY PATIENT ADVOCATE

by Lisa Snydor

Sometimes life throws you a curve ball or two!

Things you’ve accepted as “normal” take on a whole different significance. My middle child, Janine, is the “go to” person when I am ill. She laughingly says, “I’m not a doctor, but I play one on TV.” Life presented Janine with many complicated medical experiences as she cared for her eldest son who was born with multiple birth defects. She had to learn (at 19) to do research, ask questions, and challenge medical personnel when she didn’t understand why something was happening. In other words, for 18 ½ years she was her son’s “patient advocate.” She has been my “advocate” for the past 10 years.

On March 13, 2020, I was admitted to ICU, diagnosed and underwent emergency surgery.

On March 14, Saturday, Janine left the hospital at 12 pm to shower, change and gather personal items for her and me, returning to the hospital about 3 pm.

Quarantine protocols had been enacted in that brief time away. All visitors were now being required to leave at 7 pm; which meant, the first night after a major surgery, I would be alone.

Although the medical staff kept my daughter apprised of my condition, it was frightening knowing that I was alone. Then, on March 16, all visitors were banned. There was no one to offer me ice chips, keep my lips moisturized, brush my teeth, wash my face, comb my hair and reassure me I would come through this illness, no one to talk to, and no one standing vigil to awaken me when my oxygen levels dropped.

NO ONE! Quite frankly, I was afraid. I wasn’t certain I would ever see any of my loved ones again. After five days in the ICU, I was transferred to a room on a surgical floor. A few days later, I was discharged.

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On May 18th, Janine rushed me to the Emergency Room, she was allowed to stay with me while I was in ER; however, she was sent home when they transferred me to ICU. I was in severe pain and sedated at the time. Although conscious, I was not coherent or able to make appropriate decisions.

Shortly after being admitted to ICU my blood pressure crashed. I could hear the staff talking. I knew a special team had been called to put in a central line.

As someone who has dealt with illness all my life, I was surprised at that realization. Having an advocate, someone to be with you and help to ask questions is critical to healing. It means you have a guardian angel, someone whose primary concern is your healing progress. You can relax and focus on healing – putting all your strength on getting well.

A central line was placed in my neck, allowing multiple therapies simultaneously. I knew I was critical when I heard a medical staff person explain to those in the room that the doctor was on his way, my daughter had been called and blood was on hold. For more than 48 hours my blood pressure was at a critical low and my blood turned septic (infected).

Don’t misunderstand; I received excellent care from everyone on staff at the hospital. The quality of care is not in question. I simply believe isolating patients and their loved ones has a very negative impact on that patient, slows healing (or worse), hindering recovery and even care staff morale suffers as fatigue becomes an issue. Can’t we find - or negotiate – some kind of middle ground where people can see and care for their loved ones when they are needed?

This time I was in ICU, alone, aware that I was critically ill. I was afraid to go to sleep. My primary care doctor commented on my slow progress, lack of sleep and expressed concern; noting that this was not my usual pattern. After six days in ICU, I was moved to the surgical floor for another four days. Looking back, I realize being alone, not having the reassurance of someone with me, I was fighting my battle the only way I could and it was very frightening.

I had incredible care and everyone valiantly maintained an upbeat, smiling attitude. In addition, I strongly encourage the hospitals to review and amend this policy for the future. I never want to have to be admitted to the hospital again. Ever!

And most certainly, do not want to be there alone.

Being “of an age”, I am relatively certain I will be a patient again; I just don’t want to travel that road again without my advocate.

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19

Senior Athletes Find That Fun Can

DEFEAT DIABETES

By Michael Edward Browning

Remember when summer time meant stretching your legs with a soul satisfying spin on a trusty two-wheeler? Free floating through space on your own leg power as the trees whiz by? From many first-person accounts, this summer is showing a resurgence in bicycling as a leisure time activity.

Cycling has been a core sport (out of 29 events slated for Oklahoma this year) ever since they started competitions here - as Oklahoma Senior Olympics back in 1986. What is now known as The National Senior Games truly began when Warren W. Blaney, a Los Angeles businessman, staged the first “Senior Olympix” in 1970. By the mid ‘80s, 33 multi-sport games for seniors had been established around the country.

was held in 1987 in St. Louis.

In 1985, an effort was launched in St. Louis to create a national competition event, led by Harris Frank and Ken Marshall. Leadership for what was initially known as the National Senior Olympics Organization (NSOO) formed and the first National Senior Olympic Games 20

CAREGIVER Magazine

In 1990, an agreement was reached with the United States Olympic Committee based on its objection to the use of the term Olympic in the organization’s corporate name, so the name was changed to the U.S. National Senior Sports Organization. They have been conducting bi-annual national competitions ever since. More can be found at www.NSGA.com, and for Oklahoma at www.OKSeniorGames.com.

Some of you very loyal readers may recognize the gold medal cyclist we featured (photographically) last year, we are pleased to now get the story behind this photogenic post-diabetic Gold medalist from the

Issue 12

CaregiverOklahoma.com

Photos by: Chad Hunter, Cherokee Phoenix.

Cherokee and Choctaw Nations.

Although, you’ll probably get a distinct denial from Simeon Jack Gipson if you call him an athlete. As he said on a radio interview with Native America Calling while in Albuquerque last summer for the 2019 National Senior Games,

“I didn’t intend on becoming an athlete. I don’t like the word exercise, cause if I thought of bike riding as exercise I don’t know if I would do it. I cycle because I enjoy it!”

“I’d encourage anyone who thinks they might need to exercise, if that’s the word you want to use, don’t just go into something to ‘lose weight’ or to ‘get healthy’, pick something you like to do. That’s me and cycling.

Cycling and participating in competitions like the Senior Games have brought me back to health.”

Health has often been an elusive distinction throughout Simeon’s life. Born in a log cabin in Bull Hollow, he enjoyed his country upbringing, playing in the woods and such – even as he spent much of his early life before his teens riding on his brother’s back suffering leg paralysis from polio! Driving past his childhood limitations, he played both football and basketball before graduating Oaks-Mission

High School in 1964. His college career was cut short by a motorcycle accident that crushed his brother’s (Solomon Mockicin) face, causing Simeon to become a caregiver. Once Solomon recovered, he went to serve in the US Navy.

While traveling the world as a submarine mechanic, he stowed his basketball and brought his player’s passion to pick-up games from Japan to Jamaica to Ireland. Everywhere he showed up to play, this American tribesman was welcomed to the court, even if he did sometimes get a second look. Maybe not for a reason you’d suspect – it was the submariner’s smell.

“It was the diesel odor, you couldn’t get it out, or off your body.”

The cause was all the time spent in the engine rooms of his enlistment. His last tour was on, “a real piece of junk” where this second class petty officer’s first chore was to put back together all the pieces of the sub engine that was scattered all across the engine room. Gipson was always “curious about machines”, which on this last tour earned him the nickname, “Lawrence Welk”. There was another non-functional piece of equipment on that sub, an air compressor called a Prairie Master. It was a bubble maker meant to confuse enemy sonar. Once he got the compressor bubbling away again, that’s when he got dubbed with the musical maestro’s moniker.

After the Navy tours, he came home to focus on his growing family with Victoria – who had given birth to their first child two years prior - getting started in tribal service that included the Five Tribes Museum in Muskogee, City of Talequah HUD Housing (maybe

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21

“Victoria, I need to eat better.

Eating better brought on loss of weight.”

Then, when he discussed getting some exercise with his family upon retiring, his son (Simeon James) surprised him the next day with an awesome Klein road bike! So, it was off to the races, so to speak.

Simeon lost about 70 pounds cycling but the ride was far from smooth.

Since retiring from work and taking up cycling, Simeon has had a heart surgery, then knee and shoulder surgeries, twice, for each. He knew at retirement he had diabetes, but he never really took it seriously until he almost had a heart attack.

some of you remember the “Easter Egg” project brightly colored houses back in the 1990s) finally retiring as a medical legalist for Talequah Indian Hospital. Yes, he was on the front lines of HIPPA regulation adoption before retiring from the hospital night shift. Unfortunately, all the years in office work had left him overweight, diabetic since 1994 and on a half dozen prescriptions.

Although he had already been a senior medalist as part of a basketball team, competing both in Oklahoma Senior Games (qualifying for Nationals in Tucson) and - after finding an ad in AARP - joined up with a Utah team to take bronze in St. George at Huntsman World Senior Games, that was when he was around 200 pounds. Between then and retirement, he made his way up to 245 pounds.

One week into his new riding routine, he decided his knee was shot and he should check into it. For his upcoming first knee surgery he needed “cardiac clearance”. Instead, he got a triple by-pass. His cardiologist told him that if he’d had a myocardial infarction (heart attack) while on his bike, he’d have been dead before he hit the ground. That’s when he began to seriously look into his diabetes issue.

“With life scaring events, like heart surgery, you start to take notice.” So his diet changed and he began getting regular enjoyment (AKA exercise) into his life with cycling. He would suggest you not wait for one of your own to take notice of your diet and so forth. You don’t have to call it exercise. Are you getting enough smiles and fun into your days on this Earth?

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“First you have to get your body in shape, starting slow. These annual events have helped a lot of older people wanting to be more healthy. For me, I like the activity of keeping in shape more than I care about being healthy. I know the two are probably inseparable, but I just like riding my bike! I would encourage anyone who thinks they need to exercise, don’t just go into it for that. Pick something you like to do.”

DispatchHealth Travels DispatchHealth Travels SoSoThe TheFlu Flu Doesn’t Doesn’t

At an event for the 1801 Society (which hosts a home for Indian students) Gipson was honored with the Oaks-Mission High School Alumni of the Year Award for 2019. This year, the Cherokee Nation is eyeing him If you suspect you flu symptoms, youflucan call 1.866.FLU.CREW to for a Cherokee medal of a particular distinction, official If have you suspect you have symptoms, you announcement inbound. If medals are for models, a teamweof medical professionals sent to yourto home for diagnosis and tre can call 1.866.FLU.CREW have a team of DispatchHealth Travels could probably all learn a thing or two from pedaling a medical professionals sent to your home So The Doesn’t mile in Simeon’s toe-clips!

If you suspect If you you suspect have flu you symptoms, haveFlu flu symptoms, you can call you1.866.FLU.CREW can call 1.866.FLU.CREW to have t

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a team of amedical team ofprofessionals medical professionals sent to your home to your for diagnosis home for diagnosis and treatment. and tre If you suspect you have flu symptoms, yousent can call 1.866.FLU.CREW to have

Who’s At Risk?

Over the years, Simeon Gipson (now a trim 177 at

a team of medical professionals sent to your home for diagnosis and treatment.

75 years) has represented Oklahoma at National Senior Games for cycling in Minneapolis, Birmingham, Who’s At Risk?

Who’s At Risk?

Who’s At Risk?

DispatchHealth Travels Albuquerque - and he qualified for Cleveland but he had worn his knee out again already and was not able So The Flu Doesn’t to compete at Nationals that year due to his second If you suspect you have flu symptoms, you can call 1.866.FLU.CREW to have surgery. That was several years ago. Still not a team of medical professionals sent to your home for diagnosis and treatment. stopping him.

Who’s at Risk?

Seniors

Young children

Those diagnosed with chronic illnesses

Seniors Who’s At Risk?

Young children Those diagnosed with ch “Senior athletes are something special because Seniors is able Seniors Young Younginjuries childrenand Those Those with the chronic diagnosed illnesses with ch DispatchHealth to provide high-quality carechildren forhigh-quality complex illnesses, including DispatchHealth is able to provide care fordiagnosed complex anybody - I don’t care who you are - as a youngster, you flu. Last year alone, DispatchHealth treated thousands of flu cases, with nearly one-fourth of all visits illnesses, including beinginjuries flu-relatedand 2018 - 2019 season. the flu. Last year alone, Dispatchcan be an athlete. This takes someone who knows their DispatchHealth is able to high-quality care complex injuries and illnesses, inclu DispatchHealth DispatchHealth isprovide ableduring to provide istheable high-quality to provide high-quality carefor for complex care for injuries complex and injuries illnesses, and including illnesses, the incl Health treated thousands of flu cases, with nearly one-fourth of ofone-fourth flu.

Last year flu. alone, Last year DispatchHealth alone, DispatchHealth treated thousands treated of thousands flu cases, of with flu nearly cases, one-fourth with nearly all visits body and who is proud to be elderly. I’m not ashamed flu. Last year alone, DispatchHealth treated thousands ofthe flu2018 cases, with nearly one-fourth allflu-related visits during - 2019 season. being flu-related beingduring thebeing 2018 during -flu-related 2019 the 2018 season.

- 2019 season. of that word. It takes somebody special to be an DispatchHealth Also being flu-related during the 2018 - Treats: 2019 season. elder athlete.” + Dizziness / vertigo + IV placement + Nausea Seniors

Young children

Those diagnosed with chronic illnesses

+ Strains or sprains + IV fluids + Dehydration DispatchHealth is able to provide high-quality care for complex injuries and illnesses, including the + Minor fractures + Splinting + Asthma / COPD DispatchHealth DispatchHealth Also Treats: Also Treats: flu. Last year alone, DispatchHealth treated thousands of flu cases, with nearly one-fourth of all visits + Nosebleed + Stitches + And much more being flu-related during the 2018 - 2019 season. + Facial injuries + Falls + Dizziness + / Dizziness vertigo / vertigo + IV placement + IV placement + Nausea + Nausea

Indeed it does, and it sounds like the distinction of “elder” makes the “athlete” description aDispatchHealth little easier to Also Treats: digest. All of us here at CAREGIVER cheer and support + StrainsDispatchHealth or +sprains Strains or + IV fluids + IV fluids cansprains treat nearly everything an emergency room can. + Dizziness /+ vertigo + IV +placement DispatchHealth Also Treats: every one of the senior athletes who compete in Minor fractures + Minor fractures Splinting + Splinting Strains or sprains + IV +fluids Oklahoma Senior Games this September.+ Registration + Nosebleed Nosebleed Stitches + Stitches ++ Dizziness / vertigo + IV placement ++ Strains or sprains + IV fluids + Falls Request Care: + Facial injuries Facial injuries + Falls is now open at www.OKSeniorGames.com. + Minor fractures + Splinting + Minor fractures + Splinting +

+ Dehydration + Dehydration + Nausea + Asthma / +COPD Asthma / COPD Dehydration + And+much +more And much more + Nausea

+ Dehydration + Asthma / COPD + Asthma / COPD Phone: 1.866.FLU.CREW (1.866.358.2739) + Nosebleed + Stitches + And much more Nosebleed DispatchHealth + Stitches + And much more Website: DispatchHealth.com/flucrew | Available 7 Days A Week DispatchHealth can treat nearly can treat everything nearly an everything emergency an room emergency can. room can. + Facial injuries + Falls Facial injuries + Falls DispatchHealth accepts most insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid.

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Request Care: Request Care: very encouraged by your perseverance to live your life Request Care: Phone: 1.866.FLU.CREW (1.866.358.2739) (1.866.358.2739) to its fullest - no matter what your age or any health Phone: 1.866.FLU.CREW Phone: 1.866.FLU.CREW (1.866.358.2739) Website: DispatchHealth.com/flucrew Website: DispatchHealth.com/flucrew | |Available Available Days A Week 7 Days A Week Website: DispatchHealth.com/flucrew Available|77Days A Week obstacles you may face. Whether you medal in Florida DispatchHealth accepts most insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid. or not, you’re truly golden..

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23

S

P R O U D LY P R E S E N T P R O U D LY P R E S E N T S ARE YOU LOOKING FOR FUN, FITNESS

ARE YOU AGE 50 OR

If you are, you qualify to compete in the Oklaho numerous sports and the competitions are divid

P R O U D LY P R E S E N T S TO REGISTER FOR THE GAMES OR FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.okseniorgames.com info@okseniorgames.com (405) 821-1500

The games will be held in Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Shawnee. 2020 is a qualifying year for participat which will be held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, N If you are, you qualify to compete in the Oklahoma Senior Gam athletes inand each and age numerous sports thesport competitions arebracket, divided bywill agebe andi which is the world’s largest sporting event for a The games will be held in Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Muskogee, Yu

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR FUN, FITNESS AND FOREVE

ARE YOU

TO REGISTER FOR THE GAMES OR FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Shawnee.

2020on is ayour qualifying year for participation in the Nati So, put cleats, shorts, and/or swimsuit; which will be held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, November 5 -18 and join the Oklahoma Senior Games competiti athletes in each sport and age bracket, will be invited to partic which is the world’s largest sporting event for adults over 50.

www.okseniorgames.com info@okseniorgames.com (405) 821-1500

So, put on your cleats, shorts, and/or swimsuit; grab your padd and join the Oklahoma Senior Games competition this Septem

TO REGISTER FOR THE GAMES P R O U D LY P R E S E N T S ARE YOU LOOKING FOR OR FOR MORE INFORMATION: If you are, you qualify to com

ARE YOU AGE 50 OR OVER?

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info@okseniorgames.com (405) 821-1500

The games will be If you are, you qualify to compete in the Oklahoma Senior Games. There areheld in Tu numerous sports and the competitions are divided by age and gender.

Shawnee.

2020 is a qualifyin

whichYukon, will be held in The games will be held in Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Muskogee, Norman andFort La Shawnee. 2020 is a qualifying year for participation inathletes the National Seniorsport Gamesand a TO REGISTER FOR THE GAMES in each 2020 O which will be held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, November 5 -18, 2021. The top G which is the world’s largest OR FORsport MOREand INFORMATION: athletes in each age bracket, will be invited to participate in these games, EVENT DAT www.okseniorgames.com which is the world’s largest sporting event for adultsSo, overput 50. on your cleats, Basketball Sept. 5 shor info@okseniorgames.com Golf Croquet Sept. 8 Archery Sept. 12 So, put on your (405) cleats,821-1500 shorts, and/or swimsuit; grab and your join paddle, javelin or racket the Oklahoma Seni Swimming Sept. 13 Water Walking Sept. 13 and join the Oklahoma Senior Games competition this September and October.

Shuffleboard Sept. 16

CHUCK HOSKIN, CHEROKEE NATION PRINCIPAL CHIEF

SimeonCHEROKEE Gipson andNATION his uncompromising CHUCKelder HOSKIN, PRINCIPAL CHIEF commitment to health and wellness. He is a “We are extremely proud of Cherokee Nation

“We are extremely proud of Cherokee Nation we can all aspire to emulate, regardless eldermodel Simeon Gipson and his uncompromising of age. Simeon uses his passion of cycling as a commitment to healthhealthy and wellness.

He is a platform to promote lifestyle choices. model we can aspire to emulate, regardless Through his all grit, determination and fortitude he won top honors in cycling at the of age.

Simeon uses his passion ofNational cycling as a Seniorto Games.

The Cherokee Nation is honored platform promote healthy lifestyle choices. to sponsor the Oklahoma Senior Games and pay Through his grit, determination and fortitude tribute to all senior athletes with a similar drive he won top honors in cycling at the National and succeed.”

24to achieve CAREGIVER Magazine Senior Games.

The Cherokee Nation is Hoskin honored – Cherokee Nation Principal Chief, Chuck to sponsor the Oklahoma Senior Games and pay

SIMEON GIPSON

5K Race Walk 5K Power Walk Racquetball Cornhole Golf 10K Road Race 1500M Race Walk 1500M Power Walk Track and Field Triathlon Cycling 5K Road Race Tennis Badminton Bowling Pickleball Table Tennis Weightlifting Fitness Volleyball Soccer Softball Disc Golf

Sept. 19 Sept. 19 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Sept. 26 Oct. 3 Oct. 3 Oct. 3 Oct. 3 Oct. 11 Oct. 10 Oct. 10 Oct. 14 Oct. 17 Oct. 17 Oct. 23 Oct. 31 Oct. 31 Oct. 31 Nov. 7 TBD TBD TBD

After receiving a bike from his grandson, Gipson has pedaled his These are qualifying game 2020 OKLAHOMA SENIOR and full Issueway 12 to health and a busy CaregiverOklahoma.com Championships to be held in life after retirement.

GAMES BY DATE Ok After receiving a bike from his Info@

SIMEON GIPSON

2020 OKLAHOMA SENIOR

GAMES BY DATE CHUCK HOSKIN, CHEROKEE NATION PRINCIPAL CHIEF EVENT Basketball Golf Croquet Archery Swimming Water Walking Shuffleboard 5K Race Walk 5K Power Walk Racquetball Cornhole Golf 10K Road Race 1500M Race Walk 1500M Power Walk Track and Field Triathlon Cycling 5K Road Race Tennis Badminton Bowling Pickleball Table Tennis Weightlifting Fitness Volleyball Soccer Softball Disc Golf

DATE Sept. 5 Sept. 8 Sept. 12 Sept. 13 Sept. 13 Sept. 16 Sept. 19 Sept. 19 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Sept. 26 Oct. 3 Oct. 3 Oct. 3 Oct. 3 Oct. 11 Oct. 10 Oct. 10 Oct. 14-16 Oct. 17 Oct. 17-18 Oct. 23-25 Oct. 31 Oct. 31 Oct. 31 Nov. 7 TBD TBD TBD

“We are extremely proud of Cherokee Nation elder Simeon Gipson and his uncompromising 2020 OKLAHOMA SENIOR commitment to health and wellness. He is a GAMES BY DATE model we can all aspire to emulate, regardless EVENT DATE SITE of age.

Simeon uses his passion of cycling as a Basketball Sept. 5 Santa Fe Family Life Center, OKC Golf Croquet Sept. 8 LaFortune Park, Tulsa platform to promote healthy lifestyle choices.

Archery Sept. 12 Trosper Park, OKC Swimming Sept. 13 Westwood Family Aquatic Ctr, Norman Through his grit, determination and fortitude Water Walking Sept. 13 Westwood Family Aquatic Ctr, Norman Shuffleboard Sept. 16 Hicks Recreation Center, Tulsa he won top honors in cycling at the National 5K Race Walk 19 Riverside Parks, Tulsa CHUCK HOSKIN, CHEROKEE NATION PRINCIPAL CHIEF Sept.

5K Power Walk Sept. 19 Riverside Parks, Tulsa Senior Games. The Cherokee Nation is honored “We are extremely proud of Cherokee Nation Racquetball Sept. 19 Northside YMCA, OKC elder Simeon Gipson and his uncompromising Cornhole Sept. 26 Oklahoma State Fair, OKC to sponsor the Oklahoma Senior Games and pay commitment to health and wellness.Golf He is a Sept. 26 Muskogee golf Club, Muskogee Road Race Oct. 3 Tulsa Zoo, Tulsa model we can all aspire to emulate, 10K regardless tribute to all senior athletes with a similar drive 1500M Race Oct. 3 Shawnee High School, Shawnee of age. Simeon uses his passion of cycling asWalk a 1500M Power Walk Oct. 3 Shawnee High School, Shawnee to achieve and succeed.” platform to promote healthy lifestyleTrack choices. and Field Oct. 3 Shawnee High School & OBU, Shawnee Through his grit, determination and Triathlon fortitude Oct. 11 Lake El– Reno, El Reno Cherokee Nation Principal Chief, Chuck Hoskin he won top honors in cycling at the National Cycling Oct. 10 Lake Stanley Draper, OKC

SITE Santa Fe Family Life Center, OKC LaFortune Park, Tulsa Trosper Park, OKC Westwood Family Aquatic Ctr, Norman Westwood Family Aquatic Ctr, Norman Hicks Recreation Center, Tulsa Riverside Parks, Tulsa Riverside Parks, Tulsa Northside YMCA, OKC Oklahoma State Fair, OKC Muskogee golf Club, Muskogee Tulsa Zoo, Tulsa Shawnee High School, Shawnee Shawnee High School, Shawnee Shawnee High School & OBU, Shawnee Lake El Reno, El Reno Lake Stanley Draper, OKC Lake Stanley Draper, OKC RH 91, Tulsa Jackie Cooper Gym, Yukon Green Country Lanes, Muskogee Life Time Athletic, OKC OKC Tennis Club, Warr Acres Kaizen Performance, Norman Kaizen Performance, Norman Jackie Cooper Gym, Yukon TBD TBD TBD

YOU AGE 50 OR OVER? SIMEON GIPSON

KING FOR FUN, FITNESS AND FOREVER FRIENDSHIPS? Race Senior Games. The Cherokee Nation5KisRoad honored Tennis and pay to sponsor the Oklahoma Senior Games Badminton tribute to all senior athletes with a similar drive Bowling to achieve and succeed.”

Pickleball Table Tennis – Cherokee Nation Principal Chief, Chuck Hoskin Weightlifting Fitness Volleyball Soccer Softball Disc Golf

Oct. 10 Oct. 14-16 Oct. 17 Oct. 17-18 Oct. 23-25 Oct. 31 Oct. 31 Oct. 31 Nov. 7 TBD TBD TBD

Lake Stanley Draper, OKC RH 91, Tulsa After receiving a bike from his Jackie Cooper Gym, Yukon grandson, Gipson has pedaled his Green Country Lanes, Muskogee way to health and a busy and full Life Time Athletic, OKC lifeAcres after retirement.

OKC Tennis Club, Warr Kaizen Performance, Norman Kaizen Performance, Norman Jackie Cooper Gym, Yukon TBD TBD TBD

These are qualifying games for the 2021 National Senior Games Championships to be held in Fort Lauderdale, FL November 5-18 2021.

SIMEON GIPSON SIMEON GIPSON alify to compete in the Oklahoma Senior Games. There are After receiving a bike from his receiving a bike from his grandson, Gipson hasAfter pedaled his and theand competitions divided by age and gender. way to health a busy and full grandson, Gipson hasare pedaled his

ife after retirement.

OkSeniorGames.com Info@okseniorgames.com (405) 821-1500

“A PLACE WHERE EVEN SQUARES CAN HAVE A BALL!”

These are qualifying games for the 2021 National Senior Games Championships to be held in Fort Lauderdale, FL November 5-18 2021.

way to health and a busy and OkSeniorGames.com full

Info@okseniorgames.com held in Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Muskogee, Yukon, Norman and (405) 821-1500 life after retirement. a qualifying year for participation in the National Senior Games in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, November 5 -18, 2021. The top We are extremely excited that a storied port and age bracket, will beSenior invited participate in these games, Oklahoma Games will to be coming to such a historic golf venue designed by the ’s largest sporting event forMaxwell! adults over late Perry When two historic50. venues Green Country Lanes

2020 GOLF AND BOWLING CHAMPIONSHIPS TO BE HELD IN MUSKOGEE

ERE EVEN SQUARES CAN HAVE A BALL!”

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collide there are sure to be fireworks!

welcomes the 2020 bowlers.

oma Senior Games competition this September and October.

Green Country Lanes welcomes the 2020 bowlers.

Find the services you need in Oklahoma at CaregiverNearYou.com

25

BETTER WITH AGE

farmhouse near the small town of Little River, Oklahoma; one of seven children that included two sons and five daughters.

There was no electricity, no running water, none of the modern conveniences we enjoy today, but they were a happy, strong, and loving family.

In the midst of “The Great Depression” in 1933, her father died of blood poisoning from a sticker imbedded in his hand while inspecting a cotton plant. He was forty-two years old.

Dot’s mother was left with all seven children to raise on her own, she tried to keep the farm going, but in 1935 she moved them to Norman, Oklahoma buying her large family a house for the sum of $1,500.00. The house had a full basement which was assigned to the children for sleeping quarters. Some of the siblings had a bed of their own, the others doubled up.

The oldest sibling was a senior in high school, but all worked at different jobs while going to school to help out at home. Their mother took in washings and ironings, and two boarders, an elderly woman and a young boy. Together they all made it work and thought nothing of having one bathroom for ten people.

A Living Example

By Robbie Lamberson

Most of us, during our lifetime, are privileged to meet at least one extraordinary person who inspires us to be better than we thought we could be. I met that person about twenty years ago. She continues to fascinate me today, as she did the very first day I came across Dorothy (Dot) Strickland.

Dot’s mother died in 1992 at the age of ninety-seven after living in the same house for fifty seven years. The house still remains in the family to this day, as one of Dot’s sons purchased it after his grandmother passed away.

Never in a million years, upon meeting this amazing woman, would you be able to guess her age! She is remarkable in her youthful appearance, thought and ability to outshine and outdo anyone thirty years her junior. Not that she would ever harbor thoughts of such a thing.

Dot went on a blind date with a young man named Julius Strickland and quickly fell in love. He was a soldier stationed at Fort Sill. They married in 1947; Dot was twenty six years old and Julius was thirty. Military life took them to Boston, Los Angeles, Tokyo, Japan and back to Fort Sill. Amidst all the moves, they had two sons who grew up traveling from post to post. At several of these locations, Dot found work to keep her busy while raising the boys.

She was born into the Freeman family on July 29, 1921, in a

Dot explained,

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CAREGIVER Magazine

Issue 12

CaregiverOklahoma.com

“In the latter part of the 1970’s, the radio commentators were talking a lot about exercising and kept saying “USE IT OR LOSE IT!” “I was probably 67 years old then and took what they were saying very seriously. I talked a friend into going to a gym with me, and we would go for an hour, three days a week. We did this until we both retired from jobs at Fort Sill in 1983 and switched to the senior citizens center to continue exercising.”

After retiring from her job at Fort Sill, she decided to volunteer at Reynolds Army Hospital thru the Red Cross. This lasted for ten years until she and Julius moved to Norman in 1994 to be closer to family. She immediately joined the aerobics class at the Senior Citizens Center and is still attending - up to three times a week! I am occasionally sweating there beside her, but in all honesty, she is much more faithful in her weekly workouts than I am.

In 1995, she began to volunteer at Norman Regional Hospital, where she is still actively volunteering each week.

Life has been good for the Freeman and Strickland families; however, like many families, they have suffered through tragic and difficult times. Beginning in 2010, her sister died at the age of ninety-seven, which began a long siege of losing loved ones that continued through 2018. There are now only two of the Freeman children left, a brother Ed, and Dot. Her husband, Julius, died in 2012. They had been married for sixty-five years.

After his death, a friend suggested she join a senior line dancing class, and it sounded like fun to her. She said, “When I told my oldest son, he got the biggest kick out of his ninety-one-year-old mother line dancing. About six weeks later he suddenly, unexpectedly, died on my birthday and was buried on the day that my husband died the previous year.” She does not relate these details with expectations of sympathy; after all death is a part of life, and her inner strength sustains her. On this we agree.

Towards the end of our chat the subject of her big red Cadillac came up. She continues to drive it today, and will for as long as she can. She confided, “I knew it would be my last car and I had always wanted a red one.” Trust me, she’s hard to miss as she gallivants through town!

I knew she had already sold her house and moved to a retirement area. I asked if her family had encouraged her to make the move. She said, Find the services you need in Oklahoma at CaregiverNearYou.com

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One weekend something told me to move to the assisted living center, and on Monday I went out and put my name on their waiting list. I told my family after I made my decision.” “

At the age of ninety-eight, she definitely has an incredible independent spirit and an abundance of good common sense.

(Regardless of your political leanings you have to give this full-of-life woman credit for speaking her mind…)

I asked what she contributed her peaceful outlook on life to, and she said,

“I’m satisfied with the life I’ve led, no complaints; accept what life deals you and do what needs to be done.”

“Talking about it doesn’t do any good. The moral of it all is staying busy, get involved, and the time flies!”

Yes, it does, Dot…it certainly does!

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Department of Veterans Affairs Goes Virtual with

VA VIDEO CONNECT

By Audrey M. Umhoefer Chief, Veterans Experience and Patient Advocacy Public Affairs Officer

PATRIOTIC SALUTE The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recently announced that video telehealth appointments to Veterans’ homes increased over 1000%, as Veterans increasingly chose virtual care through VA Video Connect during the Covid-19 pandemic.

In Oklahoma City, OK, the OKC VA Health Care System has conducted over 8,400 VA Video Connect telehealth appointments between January 1, 2020 through June 30, 2020. VA Video Connect allows Veterans and their caregivers to meet virtually with their VA care teams on any computer, tablet, or mobile device with an Internet connection.

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“Particularly with the VA Video Connect (VVC), Veterans often express their gratefulness for our ability to provide video appointments,” said Darlene Clark, Telehealth Clinic Technician. “Many are concerned about leaving their homes or having to travel for any length of time.”

As in-person interactions decreased in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, VA Video Connect supported Veterans’ abilities to continue care and remain safely at home. Usage of video to home services has been increasing since mid-March with peak usage reaching over 29,000 appointments per day.

“It is reassuring for them to know they can still be ‘connected’ with their care team or specialty services in this manner although everything else is so uncertain,” Clark said.

The increase at The OKC VA Health Care System represents an almost 1690% increase from January 1st through June 30th of 2020. Other telehealth milestones from the Oklahoma City VA Health Care System include: • Over 10,000 unique patients using some form of telehealth (10,218 unique patients) • Over 55 different clinical specialties being offered though Clinical Video telehealth • Nine different Store and Forward specialties offered.

Store and Forward specialties are collecting clinical information and sending it electronically to another site for evaluation. The benefits from this system

include improving efficiency and convenience, no need for the Veterans to travel, waiting times reduced and second opinions can be attained quickly. Sometimes this information is gathered directly from the patient at home. OKC VAHCS has provided this service more than any other facility in the VISN. VA is also taking strides to bridge the digital divide for Veterans who lack the technology or broadband internet connectivity required to participate in VA telehealth services. At the national level, VA is working with strategic partners, through the VA Secretary’s Center of Strategic Partnerships, to increase access to the technology that Veterans need to connect with their VA health care team virtually.

“As we near the three-year anniversary of the launch of VA Video Connect, even during these challenging times, VA has and continues to maintain access to high-quality health care for Veterans,” said Wade Vlosich, Director of the OKC VAHCS “As the service becomes more popular, VA remains committed to providing a seamless user experience to ensure Veterans have access to care where and when they need it.”

Read more about VA Video Connect. For information about VA’s telehealth services visit connectedcare.va.gov.

405-217-0706 ComForCare.com/OKC 2019 ComForCare Franchise Systems, LLC Each office is Independently owned and operated and are equal opportunity employers Find the services you need in Oklahoma at CaregiverNearYou.com

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invisible qualities--his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God. Oh yeah, no question, we know God, that’s not it.

And it’s not a question from Jesus, “Do you know Me?” But that is a good question and an important one. Do you know and believe that Jesus is the Son of God? That He lived the life we couldn’t, perfect and blameless; that He died the death we deserve, a substitute for us? Paying the debt we owed for our sins, allowing us to have eternal life in the perfect presence of God the Father; that He rose to life and by doing so defeated death for us, resurrected and seated at the right hand of God?

“On the Lighter Side”

By Humorist and Novelist Robbie Lamberson & son Greg

Do You Know Me? Odd question, in any context.

And if the answer is “yes”, is that enough?

To believe. We think so, we bank an awful lot on that.

And we get that belief (pun intended!) from John 3:16;

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

And no, this is not in reference to God asking us, “Do you know Me?”

So again, the question, “Is that enough?”

That’s a rhetorical question answered by Paul in Romans 1:20, For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his

To believe. The simple answer is no, and we are selling people a bill of goods if that is what we tell them. The word used in John 3:16, translated “believe” means “to have faith that is by credit; to commit, to

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trust, put in trust with”.

That is a little different than just to believe, it’s another step. An intimate step at that. A step so personal that when we take it, there is nothing or no one else involved, you and Jesus, so close together there is nothing separating you.

Disagree? Keep in mind, the demons believe, so does Satan, none of whom will enter the kingdom of God. David Platt uses an excellent analogy that I will paraphrase. Imagine you are watching the news on TV, sitting on your sofa. A piece comes on talking about pancreatic cancer. They talk about how difficult it is to diagnose. That 95% of those diagnosed will die, many within 6 months or less, often weeks, some will die within 3-4 days of getting the diagnosis. It is a virtual death sentence. You see, you watch, you listen, you believe. Then you flip the channel and watch The Office for a while and go to bed. That’s one possible scenario.

In the second scenario, you go to the doctor for your annual physical, just like you have done every year for decades. After the exam and tests, the doctor comes in looks at you and says, “I don’t know how to tell you this, but you have pancreatic cancer”. Your life just changed.

Changed to the core, shaken like you have never been shaken before or ever will be again. The rest of the day will be completely different from how

it started. Nothing will ever be the same. In both scenarios, you believed what you learned about, but the results of that belief are radically different when you come face to face with it.

It’s the same with Jesus. We can believe in Him, talk about Him, sing about Him, but until we come face to face with Him, fall at His feet and entrust our life completely to Him, we will go about our days watching The Office and then going to bed. But when we come face to face with Him, nothing is ever the same again.

So, back to the original question we started with, do you know me? Ah, that’s the question we might need to ask Jesus and ask Him right now. Why? Mathew 7:23, Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you.

Away from me, you evildoers!’. Jesus speaks four of the most crushing words that will ever be uttered, I… Never…Knew…You. These words, if spoken to you, will leave you completely and utterly without any hope. Destined for eternal hell. So, the pressing question we need to be singularly focused on, a question that must be asked, begs to be asked, is a question directed to Jesus – “Do you know me?”

Mark 16:16 - He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not, shall be damned.

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MINUTEMEN

We The

People

WITH PENS

By Abigail Q. Hill

As I watch the television (or “Tell A Vision”) to keep up with current events being broadcast all around the world, I can't help but be dismayed and astonished by what I see happening here in these United States of America. I doubt I am alone. I can guarantee you about 99.9% of the big news executives that control the “Tell A Vision” delight in us being divided more than united. Wars, scandals, civil turmoil, death and destruction are always good for ratings.

My present bewilderment, horror and anticipation are inalienable as I watch history unfolding before my eyes. I witness sedition being called “a peaceful protest” by most of the mainstream media’s field reporters and on-air commentators. It is easy to rewrite history when you lie about current events by conveniently changing the definition of words.

Let me be clear, I’m a textual straight shooter, brutally honest in my writing and that may prove to be too bold for some - but refreshing for others. If I witness a building burning because a group of sociopathic thugs set it on fire, I will call that what it is, arson. If they burn a building while trying to overthrow our government, it is terrorism. If a news reporter calls a violent insurrection - with bricks being thrown at police officers – a peaceful protest, then, they are a liar. I still use the traditional definition of peaceful: being free from war, strife, commotion or violence.

All Americans are protected under The Constitution of the United States and our Bill of Rights. The First Amendment of the Constitution states; Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

By all means, peaceably assemble if you have a grievance to air. But don’t try to make us believe a coup d’état with widespread violence is a peaceful protest.

It seems I am a part of what is snarkily being referred to as the “Silent Majority”.

I am grateful for my freedom and liberty given to me by God. I am patriotic. I 34

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love America. I respect our flag. I stand for the Pledge of Allegiance with my hand over my heart and sing the National Anthem. I am responsible for my own personal actions. I obey the laws of our land. I believe in hard work. I understand we are all made in the image of God, all of us are precious in his sight. How I live and treat others is how I will be judged when I kneel before God someday. But I am getting fed up with my traditional American values being mocked as subversive.

So listen up you radically tyrannical “Vocal Minority”.

I do not stand alone. My voice is only one in the “Silent Majority” - but we are still the majority. No, you won’t see us acting a fool in public; burning down police stations, courthouses and post offices.

You won’t see us taking over city blocks and impeding roadways. We will not be terrorizing neighborhoods, businesses and property owners who are the backbone of our society. We will not be abusing and disrespecting our primarily good, honest peacekeepers that protect all Americans at home and abroad. We support truth, civility and the rule of law. The Silent Majority of Americans love our Country.

pixels) to write your public officials - that are entrusted with our tax dollars to do their jobs? They are to be our voice in their elected capacity to serve and represent We The People.

Do your research on every branch of the government from the Executive Branch, Legislative Branch and Judicial Branch. Scrutinize the careers, policies and beliefs of your Federal, State and Local Government officials before you enter the polls. Do your best to verify they will uphold your values and beliefs in their servitude. Fill out your sample ballot at home from the research you’ve completed.

We were formed as a Constitutional Republic, where decisions are made through

Look at the image of our “Lady Justice” and the meaning behind her. She is blindfolded, carrying a sword and a set of scales. She is a symbol on courthouses all across America.

She symbolizes fair and equal administration of the law, without corruption, favor, greed, or prejudice. The blindfold represents objectivity and impartiality; suggesting that justice is blind and should be dispensed without fear or favor, regardless of wealth or power. The scales represent the weighing of evidence; the evidence must be weighed on its own merit. The sword represents punishment; signifying that justice can be swift and final.

She holds the sword below the scales to show that evidence weighed on its merit in a court of law comes before punishment. The snake under her foot represents evil and lies and the book is the law, the constitution from which justice is administered. If those sworn to uphold, enforce and carry out the law are corrupt then they need to be rooted out and prosecuted to the fullest measure of the laws of our land.

We The People fund the police, schools and public works. If our elected officials are not going to use our tax dollars in the way the funds were allocated - give us our money back. If you defund my police then I need my tax dollars back to buy protection for my family. We The People go to the polls and vote. It is time for us to go one better? Will you pick up your pen (or type out Find the services you need in Oklahoma at CaregiverNearYou.com

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a democratic process, we are not a Monarchy. Our government officials serve only if we allow them by our vote. Wake Up America! Quit giving Your Liberty and Freedoms to buffoons that care more about special interest groups and the lobbyists that line their wallets than how hard or easy it is for you to put food on your table.

Minutemen were civilian colonists who independently organized to form militia groups self-trained in weaponry, tactics, and military strategies during the American Revolutionary War. They were known for being ready at a minute's notice. Minutemen provided a highly mobile, rapidly deployed force that enabled the colonies to respond immediately to war threats.

Minutemen woke up and stood up against the tyranny, oppression and unfair taxes being excised by King George III, the Monarch of the British Crown.

Taxation without representation is why we fought the Revolutionary War. Our elected officials and civil servants must remember they work for We The People.

This is a non-violent call to action for all of us to be “Minutemen with Pens”. The pen is mightier than the sword as the saying goes.

Dear Elected Official, We demand our tax dollars to be used as you proposed when we voted for you. If you do not, expect us to wield our pens - in defiance of your governance (that is not in keeping with your campaign promises). You are our elected official. You have sworn to uphold your oath of the office in which you serve - at the pleasure of We The People. If you don’t, when you find your term is up, “You’re Fired!”

This is a call to non-violent, thoughtful action for all patriots across this country. Show your support for America. Let your stars and stripes wave gloriously. Proudly plant our American Flag of freedom for all your fellow citizens, and the whole world, to see. Be proud of the country we are blessed to live in. Be bold, courageous, educated and honorable, like the Minutemen of our national heritage. Stand ready - to write for your way of life. civicsonlineresourcecommunity.org/meaning-of-lady-justice en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minutemen www.heritage.org/american-founders/report/americarepublic-not-democracy

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37

C MMUNITY HEARTBEAT IT’S NOT WHAT YOU CAN SEE IT’S WHAT YOU CAN BE

By Lisa Sydnor There are many “views” of NewView Oklahoma, a private not-for-profit 501(c) 3 agency that provides specialized vision rehabilitation services to individuals with vision loss. NewView Oklahoma provides services where the individuals live, learn, work and play. The agency offers programs in: Vision Rehabilitation; Manufacturing and Business Services; Employment; Community Outreach and Education.

Lauren Branch, president & CEO and Ronita Jones, senior director of clinical and rehabilitative services, hosted me on tours of the manufacturing and the clinical facilities in Oklahoma City. There is no way I can include in this article everything they do or all the services provided; however, the goal is to share information on the programs and services and encourage each of you to further explore options available to those with low-vision or total loss of vision.

Since 1949, NewView Oklahoma has empowered individuals facing vision loss to maximize their opportunities to live life without limits. This is accomplished in three ways: comprehensive lowvision rehabilitation services; meaningful employment opportunities; and engaging community programs.

NewView Oklahoma is the only in-state provider of comprehensive low vision rehabilitation services. Without these services, individuals with uncorrectable vision loss may not receive the therapy and training they need to stay independent.

NewView Oklahoma is currently the largest employer of individuals that are blind and visually impaired in the state of Oklahoma... They work year-round with state and federal elected officials to advocate for better and more opportunities for individuals who are blind.

In my tour of the Classen facility, Ronita Jones shared information on adaptive equipment, classes, innovation technology and programs for all ages and vision levels.

NewView Oklahoma counselors meet clients in their homes and offices providing ways to adapt to their environment.

This could include special color-coded, raised letter labels; suggestions on technology to assist in work performance; color contrast; support groups; classes in maintaining independence; and, teaching loved ones how to support independence.

Many times those who love us the most can unwittingly be our biggest challenge. Often parents over compensate when a child loses vision by doing everything and wrapping the child in a cocoon that suffocates instead of promoting growth - all out of love.

The children’s program was set to literally explode across Oklahoma when the pandemic hit. The teachers have worked to incorporate more online help, and are ready for in-person classes to begin.

I learned how color plays a huge role. If you have a black coffee cup and you are pouring coffee you cannot easily tell when to stop. But if you use white coffee cups, you can better see how full to fill your cup. There is an assistive devise which hooks on the edge of cup/glass and emits a sound when liquid reaches a certain level. At all NewView facilities, the floors and walls are outlined to allow easier navigation with low vision. One of the facilities has orange stripes against a dark floor. Stoves and microwaves have raised, brightly colored “dots” so you can set controls. The assistive technology available is amazing.

OWL stands for Oklahomans Without Limits, and is a camp specifically designed to challenge self-imposed and societal limitations. Year after year, campers discover their own

QUICK FACTS ABOUT NEWVIEW OKLAHOMA: Is leading employer of Oklahomans who are blind or vision-impaired; providing over 150 jobs through in-house manufacturing positions, administrative, management, rehabilitation professionals and a growing number of service contracts; Provides one-of-a-kind vision rehabilitation services for individuals living with blindness and vision loss such as:

• Low vision optometry • Occupational therapy • Orientation and mobility • Assistive technology • 4712 low vision rehabilitation appointments in 2019

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Offers community programs for people of all ages living with blindness and visual impairments including art classes, a dragon boating team, summer camps and support activities:

• Low vision & veterans support groups • Job readiness training • Adaptive sports Issue 12

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independence and capabilities. Kaylee is one such camper.

She has attended camp for five years, and in 2019, she successfully waterskied for the first time using adaptive techniques and equipment. Kaylee says,

“It’s fun to prove people wrong.”

Lauren Branch, president & CEO for over 23 years, guided my tour of the manufacturing plant. Lauren shared her concern for uninterrupted programming operations due to the pandemic. Loss of donations is already being felt. She is “searching for innovative ways to raise money in this time of crisis.”

I learned so much and was greatly impressed by the efficiency of the operation. As I watched the employees work at the plant, I was impressed with the skill displayed in performing their duties. I am fully sighted yet couldn’t follow all the steps in many of the areas. Since I am such a visual person, I learn by watching and doing, I wonder how well I could acclimate and learn to function without my sight. I confess to being more than a little in awe of the people I met as I toured the plant and the NewView facility on Classen.

No referral is required. Through assessment, occupational therapy, training in assistive technology, orientation and mobility, on-the-job training and various programs, they help enhance lives.

The Centers for Low Vision and Blindness in Oklahoma City and Tulsa offer possibilities and opportunities for people who are blind or vision impaired. Patients receive a comprehensive vision assessment, followed by a variety of services designed to allow them to remain independent.

The rehabilitation teams create an appropriate treatment plan, identifying needs specific to each individual patient.

The teams travel throughout the state to provide services to help clients cope with their vision loss. Just call and make an appointment for an evaluation of your vision. Depending on your needs, your counselor will guide you through many techniques to assist in maintaining independence and promoting growth.

Vision rehabilitation services include expert Braille instruction in reading and creating a variety of communications for education, lifestyle management, business, and entertainment. They are also able to help businesses and communities adapt their public spaces to be more accessible for the blind and visually impaired.

NewView is proud to stock and supply a variety of personal protective equipment (PPE). Keep your employees and clients safe and healthy with their products. Every order provides meaningful employment for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. NewView Oklahoma is also proud to pay competitive wages; no employees earn minimum wage.

If you, or someone you know, are vision impaired, contact NewView at 855-811-9699 by phone or clinics@newviewoklahoma.org via email.

Stop in to get your own “view” of them in person at: 4301 N Classen Blvd Oklahoma City, OK, 73118

5350 East 31st St, #302 Tulsa, OK 74135 Find the services you need in Oklahoma at CaregiverNearYou.com

39

CORIANDER or CILANTRO? ONE PLANT, TWO NAMES,

MANY BENEFITS

By Michael Edward Browning

Coriandrum sativum is a popular culinary and medicinal herb of the Apiaceae family. Health promoting properties of this herb have been reported in pharmacognostical, phytochemical and pharmacological studies. Because spices have very low calorie content and are relatively inexpensive, they are reliable sources of not just vitamins and minerals, but also antioxidants and other potential bioactive compounds - which is why our kitchen spice rack is such a great place to learn about herbal alternatives to introduce into our diets.

As much as half a liter of coriander was recovered from the tomb of King Tut, and because this plant does not grow wild in Egypt, historians interpreted this find as proof that ancient Egyptians cultivated coriander. It seems to have been cultivated in Greece since at least the second Millennium BC. One of the Linear B tablets recovered from Pylos refers to the species as being cultivated for the manufacture of perfumes.

This appears to be confirmed by archaeological evidence from the same period as large quantities of this species were retrieved from the early Bronze Age layer at Macedonia.

The word coriander derives from the old French coriandrae, which comes from the Latin coriandrum, and goes all the way back to the ancient Greek. Cilantro, the Spanish translation commonly refers to the leaves of the Coriander plant. Many

people perceive the taste of coriander leaves as tart or lemon lime, but depending on ethnicity, three to twenty one percent of the population find that cilantro tastes like dish soap. This is due to a gene that detects specific aldehydes that are used in soaps and detergents.

Studies show variations in preference among different ethnic groups. 21% of East Asians, 17% of Caucasians and 14% of African descent expressed their personal dislike for coriander.

Studies have also shown that 80% of identical twins shared the same preference for the herb - but fraternal twins agreed only half the time, strongly suggesting a genetic component to the preference so – ancient as it is in our civilization - there’s still lots to learn about coriander!

One important thing is it grows everywhere in the world and it’s an excellent pollinator attractant - which adds to the biodiversity on your land. Just looking at this annual herb, it’s not surprising that Coriandrum sativum is related to parsley, carrots, and celery. The whole plant (roots and flowers) is edible; spicy leaves are sold as Cilantro, especially found in Indian, Thai and Latin dishes, while the spicy seeds are used quite differently in recipes as Coriander. Both compliment beef (and chicken) brilliantly in their own distinct ways.

Raw coriander leaves are 92% water, 4% carb and 2% protein with almost no fat. The nutritional profile of coriander seeds is different from the fresh stems or leaves which are particularly rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K with more moderate content of dietary minerals. Coriander seeds generally have

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lower amounts of vitamins but they do provide significant amounts of fiber, calcium, selenium, iron, magnesium and manganese.

“Some animal models have shown that quercetin, a polyphenol derived from plants, has a wide range of biological actions including anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and antiviral activities; as well as attenuating lipid peroxidation, platelet aggregation and capillary permeability. Quercetin, a flavonoid (categorized as a flavonol, one of the six subclasses of flavonoid compounds) found in fruits and vegetables, has unique biological properties that may improve mental/physical performance and reduce infection risk.

It seems Type II Diabetes gets coverage some how, some way, in every issue of CAREGIVER (www.CaregiverOklahoma.com/ digital-issues). “Intermediate hyperglycaemia”, which is based on glycaemic parameters above normal but below diabetes thresholds is a high-risk state for diabetes, also known as Prediabetes. The worldwide prevalence of prediabetes is projected to be nearly half a billion by 2030. So, eating cilantro heavy street tacos may help efforts to stave off both prediabetes and heart attacks. Along with all the hot peppers you can handle, for thinning that blood flowing through your capillaries.

Rich in immune-boosting antioxidants, cilantro may: • Help lower blood sugar • Benefit heart health • Protect brain health • Promote digestion and gut health • Fight infections • Prevent DNA damage • Protect your skin Cilantro’s also eaten for measles, toothache, as an antioxidant and heavy metal remover. Cilantro might help remove metals such as mercury, lead, and aluminum from the body - which then may help some antibiotics and antiviral medicines work - and may also help eliminate certain bacteria that cause infections.

It is absolutely delicious, easy to grow your own yard plants, which will then self-seed and grow perennially. One single plant can produce a half a pound of coriander seed. There’s probably some in your cupboard now.

Grow your own food - and medicine. Grow some coriander - or call it cilantro - but do it now! You can get a whole late season harvest before it frosts, and it still grows great in the chillier weather.

Linear B Tablets https://www.world-archaeology.com/great-discoveries/linear-b-tablets/ Quercetin, Inflammation and Immunity https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4808895/ Coriander fruit exhibits gut modulatory, blood pressure lowering and diuretic activities https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19146935/ Indian Spices for Healthy Heart https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3083808/ Spices and Atherosclerosis https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6266658/ Prediabetes: A high-risk state for developing diabetes https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3891203/ Antioxidant activity of Coriandrum sativum and protection against DNA damage and cancer cell migration https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4028854/ Chronic diseases, inflammation, and spices: how are they linked? https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5785894/ Free radicals, antioxidants and functional foods: Impact on human health https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3249911/

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Longterm Care Options in Oklahoma

ASSISTED LIVING

— Brought to you by the Oklahoma Assisted Living Association —

ASSISTED LIVING A home or establishment that may provide assistance with personal care, medications, ambulation, nursing supervision and intermittent or unscheduled nursing care. They cannot provide 24-hour skilled nursing care. Licensed by Oklahoma State Department of Health Mainly Private Pay, LTC Insurance may cover , VA Aid & Attendance, & Tribal Benefits Medicaid Option through DHS (Advantage Waiver)

NURSING HOME A nursing facility that provides 24-hour skilled nursing care and related services for residents who require medical or nursing care.

Nursing Home Care Act - October 1, 1980. Licensed by Oklahoma State Department of Health. Nursing homes provide the highest level of care.

Options for Medicare/Medicaid

ADULT DAY CARE Provides health, recreational, social and supportive services to impaired adults for more than four hours per day. Participants do not stay in the center overnight. Adult Day Care Act - November 1, 1989 Licensed by Oklahoma State Department of Health VA allows respite benefits Medicaid Option through DHS (Advantage Waiver)

VETERANS CARE Created in 2013, this program is for residents who are veterans living in the state veteran’s centers. They are licensed as a nursing facility and can provide 24-hour skilled nursing care and related services for residents who require medical or nursing care . Falls under Nursing Home Care Act - May 29, 2013. Licensed by Oklahoma State Department of Health

CONTINUUM OF CARE Combines the services of a nursing facility with an assisted living center or an adult day care center. It is licensed under the Continuum of Care and Assisted Living Act and must also meet requirements applicable to nursing facilities, assisted living centers and adult day care centers. Licensed by Oklahoma State Department of Health Currently inOklahoma, all Continuum of Care’s only have assisted livings.

Medicaid Option through DHS (Advantage Waiver) for Assisted Living and Adult Day Care.

RESIDENTIAL CARE HOMES Provide residential accommodations, food service, and supportive assistance. May also provide assistance with meals, dressing, bathing, other personal needs, and medication administration. Cannot provide medical care such as skilled nursing. Residential Care Act - November 1, 1984 Licensed by Oklahoma State Department of Health A typical residential care resident is younger than other long term care options and only requires assistant with medication administration.

NO Options for Medicare/Medicaid

INDEPENDENT SENIOR LIVING/HOME CARE Apartments, cottages, and single-family homes for seniors 55 & over who do not require assistance with daily activities or 24/7 skilled nursing but may benefit from convenient services, senior-friendly surround-ings, and increased social opportunities. NOT Licensed by Oklahoma State Department of Health. No oversight since they are not licensed. May have “High Acuity” that is receiving Home Health and or Hospice services.

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CAREGIVER Magazine

For a list of OKALA Members Visit www.OKALA.org Become a member or for more information call 405-235-5000 Issue 12

CaregiverOklahoma.com

Erick Kaufman, MD was born and raised in Oklahoma City. He graduated with Honors from the University of Oklahoma School of Medicine in 1992 and went on to serve three years of Ophthalmology Residency at the University of Arkansas, Jones Eye Institute in Little Rock Arkansas. Dr. Kaufman then completed an Internal Medicine residency and board certification in Portland, Oregon. He settled with his family in Springfield, Missouri and enjoyed 13 years of private practice with the prestigious, multi-specialty group of Ferrell Duncan Clinic, which is comprised of 100+ board certified specialists.

Doctors of Cannabis simplifies the process of getting medical marijuana treatment in Oklahoma, so you can get the relief you deserve – without the hassle.

In 2017 Dr. Kaufman left the University for the private sector. In 2018, along with an accredited group of investors, he led the creation of Doctors of Cannabis (DOC) medical practice. The primary focus and mission of Doctors of Cannabis (DOC) is to be Oklahoma’s authoritative source of clinical care for Oklahomans who wish to explore its medical use. The group also promotes education, safety and research in this relatively new field of medicinal cannabis.

GET YOUR OKLAHOMA MEDICAL MARIJUANA CARD ONLINE! Getting your Medical Marijuana Card in Oklahoma just got easier! Our Medical Marijuana Doctors can now evaluate patients online - from consultation to application submission - for obtaining your medical marijuana card. All you need is a smartphone or tablet or a computer with computer audio/video.

Applying for your medical marijuana license on your own can be daunting, that’s why we’re here to help you every step of the way. We’re proud to offer the only turnkey solution in Oklahoma – from consultation to application submission -- for obtaining your medical marijuana card.

Doctors of Cannabis 405-367-5638

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annacian's o r n e r

By Michael Edward Browning

cannacian - [ka-nish-uh n] noun A phytocannabinoid caregiver having direct contact with - and responsibility for - medical patients; clinicians and counselors who are trained in the human endocannabinoid system and dispensing cannabis therapy.

Many who try cannabis - in any form, at any stage of life - never see their life existing without it. It has earned its place as a trusted companion. One who comforts, makes us laugh and provides pain relief - in one area or another.

Like eating and breathing, it will be a daily expression for the remainder of their lives. Borderline Rastfarians they are.

Others only resort to it as a last ditch effort. They may “hate” it based on their lifelong programming, but have come to accept it as having “some potential” to assist them with a given condition. Then they’ve relented because it is, after all, only a plant. A powerful plant at that, but it is not a panacea, and it still needs to be treated with the respect of any medicinal herb, as a medicine.

Long-term, as defined in opioid treatment, is equal to or more than 90 days. On the Rick Simpson Oil recipe, I’ve witnessed a stage 3 patient eliminate their cancer markers entirely inside of 90 days. Only 90 minutes after application, I’ve seen a full spectrum salve (applied to the temples and chest) turn a chronic insomniac into a cooing snooze puddle for 10 plus hours. It seems to me that many modern problems – either keeping us up all night or asleep all day – that are actively and therapeutically being addressed by products designed for the purpose, can be dealt with in short order.

In Issue 8, we exhumed the old ‘80’s notion of marijuana 44

CAREGIVER Magazine

Cannabis Therapy Is Not a

Life Sentence being the “Gateway Drug”, which at that time implied that it would lead one down the path to the harder, darker drugs. For a significant section of our society, that sentiment can be considered true, but, “Marijuana is the Gateway Drug” is a form of a language construct known as a non-sequitur. Arriving first in a sequence does not make a thing a “cause”.

non se·qui·tur: A conclusion or statement that does not logically follow from the previous argument or statement.

The point is in the implication; that the ingestion of one lower level, unprocessed drug makes one more likely to move up the scale. What they meant was that if you kids in the school yard tried smoking this weed, you would surely end up a junkie on one of the extensively processed and concentrated white drugs like cocaine, heroin or meth. Of your own volition, of course. What about when the door that opens is “prescriptive”?

We explored my friend Elen’s exodus from prescribed opioid addiction. Through an ancillary (cannabis therapy) approach of complimentary tapering, she was able to move deliberately out of years of Oxycodone and Venlafaxine dependency. What was not discussed last winter, is how a much older dependency began to fade away during the tapering. Alcohol. Rum, in particular. For several decades she had a trusty friend named Ron who she kept in the cupboard by the half gallon. Suddenly, Ron wasn’t seeming like such a fun guy. Wholesome food and the garden out back beckoned instead.

With summer’s warmth, primarily free of the chronic pain that had plagued her days for decades (free of the prescriptions and bitter pills that carry their own weight on our perceptions) another crutch fell away. Cannabis Issue 12

CaregiverOklahoma.com

therapy was no longer required. No longer needed or desired. After an adult life spent actively engaging her endocannabinoid system, she has found a balance, her homeostasis. Walking, gardening and eating only the best, Elen has achieved a bodily peace.

Elen has successfully, giving equal credence to both meanings, used pot as a gateway drug into, and out of, prescriptions of adult pain suppression. After surgeries and wheelchairs and years of varied therapies, Elen is now living without any current prescriptions. Does this mean she’ll never have cause to seek some comfort or doctor’s advice in the future? Of course not.

We must remain flexible to respond to what life has coming our way. Cannabis therapy could be called for again at some point.

For instance, in the case of Traumatic Brain Injury or concussion, the psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis sativa, THC (or tetrahydrocannabinol) stimulates parts of the brain involved in healing after a TBI. So if she fell off the stoop and hit her head, one of the very best first aid actions her husband could take would be to get cannabis smoke into her cranium. Either under her own breath or by exhaling pot smoke or vapor into her ears and face. Cannabis salve works under a similar method to stop further cell damage. The full spectrum of not just cannabinoids, but also flavonoids, terpenoids, lipids and polyphenols all work together to “draw a line in the trauma sand” where further bruising and cellular death would normally occur, radiating out from the point of injury.

As we noted then, “Cannabinoids may be useful in the management of rheumatic disorders for two broad reasons: their anti-inflammatory/immunomodulatory activity and their effects on pain and associated symptoms.” Then, once we have those under control, it appears that we aren’t cursed with a regimen until death do us part from this earth. How many times have you gotten a discontinue date from a doctor prescribing you a new medication? If ever, only in acute trauma situations.

If your lifestyle has led you to a chronic condition and a pill or other pharmaceutical is being prescribed, it’s often with the understanding that it will be forever.

How refreshing is it to know that after a period of therapy, you may return to a normal life in a normal body?

In some cases, it’s even better than before. Another

friend with knee problems gained immediate and lasting relief from the combination of CBD and THC for a period. He continues to use CBD oil or tincture under the tongue for pain flare-ups, but has not needed THC level relief for some weeks. This is true for many people who have never been exposed to cannabis use in their adult life.

As a starved Endocannabinoid system is fortified with phytocannabinoids from medical marijuana products, the patient’s own body may ramp up production of endocannabinoids (like our endogenously created precursor to THC, Anandamide) , now that the system has “been shown the benefits”. CBD supplementation can also prolong the beneficial effects of THC inclusive cannabis therapy.

Anything in isolated (or worse, synthesized) form has greater potential for unwanted side effects, which is why “full spectrum” or “broad spectrum” products deliver more “coverage”. It’s kind of like sending in a team of specialists - rather than just a single specialist.

Even if CBD is a “generalist” type of specialist, he just performs better under pressure when he has CBG, CBN and the rest of his team there to help out. For any number of reasons, it can be desired to isolate and remove THC – and its potentially unwanted psychoactive attributes – from the mix.

The great news here is that even if you had THC in the mix, at therapeutically high doses, it’s possible to “flatten the curve” down to zero. Exit therapy. The gateway drug of years back is shedding light on new gateways as we get to know more about her totality. Gateways OUT of addiction, gateways OUT of chronic pain gateways OUT of psychological traumas. Gateways IN to the sunshine.

Gateways back into life.

If you’re currently engaged in cannabis therapy, or considering it for the first time for one ailment or another in particular, when would you like to have completed it?

Find the services you need in Oklahoma at CaregiverNearYou.com

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Remember When?

I Remember When Summer Fun Meant lying on a blanket under the stars exploring the night sky.

Sitting outside in the front yards with neighbors enjoying the children, the warm Fellowship, celebrating each unique personality. Evening drives with Mom and Dad to the Erie dock.

Then to the park where we made wishes at the fountain. Ice cream cones on the way home. The whole experience was best when shared with a cousin. Splashing in the waves, playing in the sand, ice-cold root beer with my Mom and her friend and daughter on Presque Isle Beach in Erie, Pennsylvania. Driving to the fruit and vegetable stands along Pennsylvania Route 5 on Lake Road.

Buying big fat juicy peaches, plump tomatoes and fresh-picked sweet corn. Sitting on a bench with Mom and my sisters at Waldameer Park watching the monkeys on “Monkey island”. We always laughed so hard that tears would be running down our cheeks.

“Betty” I Remember When Summer Fun Meant my children being out of school and we could do fun things together swimming at the lake was our favorite thing to do. We lived in Washington state close to the lake and had our boat docked there. Boating, fishing, water skiing on the lake with good friends and family. Taking my boys to the lake-shore to pick up pop bottles to sell, mostly on Mondays after the weekend crowd had left. Vacation time so we could come to Oklahoma to visit our families.

Rosemary I Remember When Summer Fun Meant afternoon swims at Spring Lake. Dancing the night away at Wedgewood Park and sock hops at the VFW Post.

Carlyn 46

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Issue 12

CaregiverOklahoma.com

Summer Meant Fun!

By The Residents of Lionwood Senior Living

I Remember When Summer Fun Meant growing up in Spencer, Oklahoma in the country. During early childhood, I remember playing in the dirt, eating vegetables out of the garden, playing in the treehouse. I had a lot of fun playing with the chickens and going to the storm cellar for Stormy Weather.

During my middle school years. I remember going to Oklahoma City to babysit for an aunt. I enjoyed spending a lot of time at the YWCA we played board games, created arts and crafts projects and participated in water exercise. During my high school years, I worked for a medical doctor and his dentist son as their office manager. My first real job!

This was a fun summer. I went to the drive-in movies, drive-In teen hotspots and YWCA weekend socials, dancing and socializing. The summers were lots of fun!

Lillie I Remember When summer fun meant getting the hose out and squirting each other with water. Going to my grandpa Hood’s farm. Where he and my uncle Dick would empty a cow’s water tank and clean it, roll it up to the windmill and fill it with water. We would play for hours in it. We would then dry off by lying on the cellar door spread with towels, letting the sun dry us. Going to the drive-in movies with friends to watch the latest movies. We always snuck in a few extra friends.

Richard A very special thank you to the residents from Lionwood Senior Living for sharing their wonderful summer memories. I would also like to thank the staff for their assistance. In troubled times a stroll down memory lane can lift your spirits, put a smile on your face and add a little more joy to your day. If your community would like to participate in an upcoming Remember When? Contact LaShanya Nash at l.nash@betterwithageok.com

Find the services you need in Oklahoma at CaregiverNearYou.com

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