One of the best parts of publishing a community magazine is that I'm basically a professional friend-maker. It never fails— right as I'm putting an issue together, something (or someone) amazing pops up, and I get so excited I have to cram them into the current issue. Our annual Top Doctors and Dentists issue was no exception.
During a recent appointment, I was finally able to meet Debra Allen from Radiology and Oncology Services in person, and let me tell you, we're now besties. But the real surprise came when she introduced me to the sweetest, most gentle human on the planet. I was so taken with him that I decided on the spot: this man's story needs to be told. So, meet Mr. Ed Owen, a man whose kindness shines so bright you almost need sunglasses. He’s the genuine article, a quiet hero working behind the scenes to bring comfort to patients going through tough times.
This issue is for all the doctors and dentists who work themselves to the bone to keep us healthy and happy. You'll definitely want to keep this one handy—it's basically a cheat sheet for finding someone who can fix your teeth, your bones, or whatever else life throws at you.
Send news announcements, story ideas, and other requests to editor@sbmag.net.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Byron May
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Stephanie Pringle
Hanna Frey
Seva May
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Teddy Allen
Adam Bailey
Casey Allen
Kevin Hinson
GRAPHIC DESIGN
May Marketing Group
Emily Hammon
John Smith
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Live! Sports & Social® Louisiana brings the ultimate fan experience to you! Sports & Social® is a one-of-a-kind sports bar, gaming parlor, and social lounge in Bossier City and Shreveport. Everyone enjoyed sports viewing on the next level, with a massive media wall, numerous HDTVs, an extensive beer selection, sports betting kiosks, and more!
Cormitta Bryant and Hope Hollins
Jeffery Pellum, Louis Smith, Bernard Fulton, RaynArd Curry
Bobby Wallette, Judy Wallette, Karen Wallette, Belinda Wallette
Chef Grudge Match!
Neima does it again! Chefs Neima DiGrazia and De'Unaka Haley, went head-to-head in a heated battle on the recently aired Food Network's Chef Grudge Match! Fans and foodies alike packed the house to cheer on these culinary titans, celebrating an epic showdown between two of the best.
Linda Sperandio and Carol Turnage
Elizabeth and Mayor Tom Arceneaux, and Adela Salgado
Rosaline Tisdale, Niema DiGrazia, and Anthony Tisdale
Candy Murrel and Rene Davis
An Evening for Healers
The LSU Health Sciences Foundation returns with its annual fundraising gala, An Evening for Healers, on Thursday, September 11, 2025. Now in its 14th year, the event has served as a platform to honor and celebrate the Shreveport-Bossier community’s first responders, physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, and other healthcare providers who each played a vital role in saving the lives of patients at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport (OLHS), North Louisiana’s only Level 1 Trauma Center, while raising mission-critical funding for LSU Health Shreveport.
Since the event’s inception, 29 moving patient stories have been shared, more than 930 dedicated first responders and healthcare heroes have been honored, and more than $4 million has been raised for LSU Health Shreveport.
Dr. Caitlin Busada and Dr. Sonja Gennuso
LSUS Chancellor Robert T. Smith and Pam Smith Mayor Tommy Chandler and Mayor Tom Arceneaux
Susan Moffitt Lauren and Michael Henson
Former Sen. Greg Tarver and Dr. Velma Kirksey-Tarver Interim LSUHS Chancellor Les Johnson
Meet Mr. Ed
In a world that often feels rushed and impersonal, it’s the quiet acts of kindness that truly resonate. One such act, repeated daily with unwavering grace, can be found at the entryway of the Willis Knighton Radiation Oncology Services Center, where a man named Ed Owens stands as a beacon of compassion.
Ed is a man of deep faith, his actions a living testament to his Christian beliefs. He doesn't preach or proselytize; instead, his love for God shows in the little things he does and through his service to others. With a big, beautiful smile and a warm demeanor, he spends his days assisting cancer patients as they arrive for their treatments. He considers his position of “Patient Relation Transportation as part service and part ministry. It begins the moment a car pulls into the lot. He's there to offer a steadying arm, a helping hand, and a genuine connection.
For many patients, the journey from their vehicle to the treatment room can be a difficult and daunting one. The physical toll of the disease and the emotional weight of each appointment can make even a short walk feel like a marathon. This is where Ed steps in. He’s there to help with a wheelchair, carry a bag, or simply walk alongside someone, offering a comforting presence. He sees beyond the illness to the person within, offering dignity and respect with every interaction. In his way, he lets his patients know they are not walking alone on their journey. He genuinely cares about them. It’s not an act. It’s true compassion. As we visited, Ed often teared up when he talked about his faith, a sign of his deep convictions.
By Seva May
Ed came from a good family. They ran a drycleaning business and that’s where he learned the value of treating others kindly. He went on to work over 20 years with the public school system in a maintenance position. There he added to his love and respect for people while he honed his communication skills. He took a cleaning position with Willis Knighton and it was there that people fell in love with him and admired his work ethic.
Office Administrator, Debra Allen, also took note and suggested perhaps Ed was being underutilized. Not that shiny, clean floors were less important, it was just that Ed had God-given gifts that would go further to help the many patients that he greeted daily –many of which have his cell phone number to call when they needed his help. Many have added his name to their obituary. I asked him if losing a patient to cancer took a toll on him. “You know, deep inside, your faith tells you that it’s God’s plan. And they’re with the Lord now. They’re cured and they’re healed. No more pain,” he explains. “In terms of death, in terms of sickness, in terms of disease…just everything. He’s the great healer of all.”
Ed and his wife, Beverly, a retired school teacher, have raised three children - Jonathan, Taurus and Ayonna. All are active in their churches and have blessed Ed and Beverly with 14 grandchildren. I expect the holidays at the Owens’ home is a sight to see. His love for his family radiates through his incredible smile.
Ed’s work is a calling. He sees it as an opportunity to be a servant; to embody the love he believes God has for all. His faith is his foundation, giving him the strength and purpose to face the daily realities of suffering and pain. He listens to stories, shares a quiet word of encouragement, and sometimes, just sits in silent solidarity. In a place where hope can sometimes feel fragile, Ed's unwavering compassion is a powerful reminder that no one walks this path alone.
His presence is a gift, not just to the patients he helps, but to all who witness his selfless service. Ed’s story reminds us that the most profound acts of love are often the simplest ones—a helping hand, a kind heart, and a spirit of true humility.
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”
Colossians 3:12.
Words that Ed lives by. We need more Eds in this world.
You’re free to live your life out loud! Because you’ve got the compassion of the cross, the security of the shield, and the comfort of Blue behind you.
Cleaning For A Reason
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Proton Prowess
The 11th Annual PTCOG-NA meeting is scheduled to take place from November 7-9, 2025, in Shreveport, Louisiana. One might think it’s just another medical get together, but it is significantly more. This event marks a milestone as it's the first time the Particle Therapy Co-operative GroupNorth America (PTCOG-NA) meeting will be hosted in a city and at a cancer center of this size. The selection of Shreveport and the Willis Knighton Cancer Center is a testament to the facility's pioneering role in proton therapy.
A Beacon of Proton Therapy in the South
The Willis Knighton Cancer Center in Shreveport is a well-established leader in the field, having been the first in the world to install the Proteus® ONE, a compact, image-guided scanning proton therapy system, back in 2014. For over a decade, the center has served as a key international training and education hub for proton therapy, a factor that played a crucial role in its selection as the host for this prestigious meeting. The meeting's location highlights the center's leadership position and its contribution to the advancement of this specialized form of cancer treatment.
Advancing the Field Through Collaboration
The theme for this year's meeting is "Advancing Particle Therapy Through Collaborative Synergies". This theme underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to pushing the boundaries of proton therapy. The conference will bring together a diverse group of experts, including radiation oncologists, physicists, dosimetrists, therapists, and administrators from leading institutions across the country like Memorial Sloan Kettering, Mayo Clinic, MD Anderson, and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
The agenda is structured to facilitate rich discussions and knowledge sharing. It will feature two days of educational sessions, followed by a three-day scientific program with multiple sessions and subcommittee meetings. The scientific sessions are expected to cover a wide range of topics in clinical practice, medical physics, and radiobiology. One of the key highlights of the meeting will be the increased involvement of the Early Career Researcher (ECR) Subcommittee in both the educational and scientific program planning, aiming to foster the next generation of leaders in the field.
Key Scientific and Clinical Topics
The scientific program will delve into some of the most pressing and innovative topics in particle therapy today. Expect presentations and panel discussions on subjects like:
•Adaptive Therapy and Imaging: Discussions on integrating advanced imaging and adaptive planning to improve treatment precision and outcomes.
•LET and RBE Optimization: Exploring the complex biological effects of protons and how to optimize Linear Energy Transfer (LET) and Relative Biological Effectiveness (RBE) in treatment planning to
By Seva May
enhance tumor kill while sparing healthy tissue.
•Applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI): The role of AI in streamlining workflows, improving treatment planning, and analyzing vast datasets to personalize patient care.
•FLASH Radiotherapy: Insights into this ultra-high dose rate delivery technique, which shows promise in reducing side effects while maintaining treatment efficacy. The New York Proton Center, for instance, has been actively involved in research on FLASH-enabled therapy.
•Clinical Data and Outcomes: Presentations of new clinical trial data and long-term outcomes for various cancer sites, including head and neck, thoracic, and pediatric tumors. This will include discussions on how proton therapy can spare critical organs like the heart and brain, leading to better longterm quality of life for patients.
Shreveport’s Southern Hospitality
Beyond the scientific sessions, the meeting offers attendees a chance to experience the unique culture of Northwest Louisiana. The organizers have planned a memorable social calendar to complement the academic program. A Cajun-themed Gala on Friday night will allow attendees to enjoy Louisiana’s renowned cuisine and music. The celebration will continue on Saturday night with an event commemorating the 10-year anniversary of the Willis Knighton Cancer Center's proton therapy program. These social gatherings will provide excellent opportunities for networking and building relationships in a relaxed, convivial atmosphere.
A Platform for Progress
The PTCOG-NA meeting is more than just a conference; it's a critical forum for advancing the entire field of particle therapy. By fostering collaboration, scientific exchange, and the development of new guidelines, the society plays a vital role in ensuring that proton therapy remains at the forefront of cancer treatment. The Shreveport meeting is poised to be a landmark event, not only for Shreveport-Bossier City but for the global particle therapy community. It will provide a platform for experts to share groundbreaking research, debate "hot issues," and work together toward a future where more patients can benefit from this life-changing technology. The meeting reaffirms the commitment of PTCOGNA and its members to continuously innovate and improve patient care, one proton at a time.
BY CASEY ALLEN
Alan E. Hicks is the new General and Artistic Director of the Shreveport Opera. Hicks started officially on March 1, taking over for Steven Aiken, who had been director for the past 17 years.
Hicks is originally from Columbus, Mississippi, close to the Alabama state line, but he has lived all over. He says coming back to his southern roots feels like coming home.
“I like Shreveport a lot,” Hicks says. “I grew up in a community very similar. The only thing different is we didn’t have real Cajun food. I was looking forward to some etouffee.
“My family has connections to New Orleans. They have condos there. I visited
IN THE GREENROOM
SHREVEPORT OPERA SINGS A DIFFERENT TUNE WITH NEW DIRECTOR ALAN E. HICKS
Alan E. Hicks
a ton of times when I was a freshman at the University of Southern Mississippi.” Another similarity: Columbus is home to the 14th Flying Training Wing of the U.S. Air Force.
“My dad was retired Air Force,” Hicks says, “and I spent a lot of time at the base in Columbus.”
While growing up, Hicks wanted to become a band director or a high school music teacher. He attended Mississippi State in Starkville and earned his music education degree.
In 1996, after finishing his Master's in Vocal Performance at Rice in Houston, he immediately got his first professional singing contract in New York City, which lasted five years.
In 2002, he changed his focus to stage directing. Hicks was planning on going back to school, but he got acting jobs at The Actors Studio and The American Academy of Dramatic Arts and stayed for another three years.
Hicks ended up in graduate school at the University of Texas at Austin and earned his degree in Opera Directing. He started
getting professional work as a stage director and bounced around the country teaching at universities and serving on staff at various operas.
Hicks has taught at several universities, including Texas Tech, Iowa, Alabama, San Diego State, Sam Houston State, and Texas in Austin. He’s even taught classes and directed productions in Italy and Berlin. His impressive operatic directorial resume includes productions in Mexico City, Salzburg, Miami, Minnesota, Palm Beach, and San Diego.
For his staging of Tosca at the San Diego Opera in 2023, Hicks was a National Finalist for The Charles Nelson Reilly Prize in Stage Direction. And in 2018, he won the Craig Noel Award for Outstanding Special Event for All Is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914, at the San Diego Opera.
With tons of national and international experience and expertise under his belt, Hicks is looking forward to sharing his talents and creativity with Shreveport.
“Before I was even offered the job, I started thinking about what my priorities are,” Hicks says. “You have to think about
sustainability, about not just maintaining but constantly growing.
“Steve Aiken came into a company 17 years ago that was about to go under. I am coming into a different situation. Because of what he has left me, I can focus more artistically on how we can grow, and we can take more chances.
“He’s leaving me with something in really good shape. We have to make sure we stay in good shape.”
The Shreveport Opera opens the 2025-26 season with a performance of La Boheme at the Riverview Theater at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 1. Don Giovanni is scheduled for March 21, pushed back a week from its original March 14 date to not conflict with 50 Cent’s Humor and Harmony Fest II.
There’s a lot going on now downtown. You love to see it!
Hicks says while this season will be more traditional, going forward he wants to introduce not so much newer things but different things.
“The first operas performed in the United
States were performed in the south in South Carolina,” Hicks says. “The south has a strong operatic tradition. I want to learn what the community wants this first year and give them what they want.
“I tend to think in 5-year plans. I put shows on a list and plan for it further out. Next season there will probably be something that has never been done here before, as well as something new and something more comfortable.”
Hicks would love to do a performance of Silent Night here someday, about the sudden ceasefire on Christmas during WWI.
“It premiered at the Minnesota Opera, and it has played in Philadelphia,” Hicks says. “It deserves a wider audience.
“The problem with new operas is if someone hasn’t heard of it before, you have to explain why this is important. Marketing is important, as well as using social media.”
Check out the Shreveport Opera’s website and Facebook page for upcoming events and tickets.
The Opera has sold out its “Music of the Night” fundraiser in September at East Ridge Country Club. The event supported Shreveport Opera Xpress (SOX), which is the Shreveport Opera’s education and outreach program. The touring program allows young artists to perform at elementary schools and high schools here.
You can support the Shreveport Opera by going to their website and donating or buying a ticket to an upcoming show. Supporting local artists is what makes our community thrive. Live theater brings people together unlike anything else.
SOX will also be performing the national anthem at a Mudbugs hockey game this year, and they hope to perform at a future LSUS Pilots baseball game.
The Shreveport Opera is in good hands with Alan E. Hicks. It will be exciting to see his plans for the future. I know he’s glad to be home. Well, close enough.
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Earns National Quality Award
The first facility in Louisiana to earn the Gold level award
Garden Park Nursing & Rehabilitation Center has been recognized by the American Health Care Association and the National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) as a 2025 Gold - Excellence in Quality Award recipient.
“Our top priority has always been providing exceptional care to our residents,” said Jennifer Peters, Administrator of Garden Park in Shreveport. “To be one of only three facilities nationwide to earn the 2025 Gold Award is an incredible honor and a testament to our team’s unwavering commitment to quality, safety and service. This is a victory for all Louisiana nursing facilities that tirelessly pursue quality improvement.”
“The hardworking staff at Garden Park Nursing & Rehabilitation Center have achieved one of the most prestigious honors in our profession,” said Mark Berger, executive director of the Louisiana Nursing Home Association (LNHA). “Earning the Gold - Excellence in Quality Award is an extraordinary achievement that recognizes exceptional caregiving and tireless dedication to continuous quality improvement. This year, only three facilities in the nation received this award, placing Garden Park among the best in the country. Louisiana has secured its place among the nation’s top achievers in quality awards with 74 bronze, 37 silver and one gold since 2018.”
The National Quality Award Program by the American Health Care Association and the National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) has three progressive levels of achievement – bronze, silver, and gold. Implemented by AHCA/NCAL in 1996, the National Quality Award Program is centered on the core values and criteria of the Baldrige Performance Excellence Program. The program assists providers of long term and post-acute care services in achieving their performance excellence goals. The awards will be presented during AHCA/NCAL’s 76th Annual Convention and Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada on October 19-22, 2025.
RENEE GREENWASHINGTON, FNP-C
Renee Green-Washington, FNP-C, opened the Golden HealthCare Family Care, a clinic focused on providing accessible and highquality healthcare for families. With her solid background in urgent care and rural health, Renee aims to continue her mission of serving the community with excellence and empathy.
Renee, who graduated with a BSN from Southern Arkan sas University and an MSN from Grambling State Universi ty, has a particular passion for cosmetic treatments, i ncluding Botox, dermal fillers, joint injections, and weight loss support. Outside of her professional life, she valu es family time with her husband and four children, reflecting her commitment to caring for both patients and her love d ones.
Her clinic will offer a variety of services, includ ing primary care, pediatrics, well woman exams, sports physical s, and diagnostic testing. For those interested in wellnes s visits, cash pay appointments can be scheduled immediately by calling 318-828-1365, while insurance-based appoint ments will be available starting in January.
The clinic is located at 460 Ashley Ridge Ste 600, and Renee is excited to bring her expertise and compass ionate care to the community.
The Food Network set, with its bright lights and high-stakes energy, is a world away from Shreveport, Louisiana. But for Chef Niema DiGrazia, it was the perfect stage to represent her adopted hometown and her West African heritage. The executive chef at Abby Singer's Bistro at the Robinson Film Center, Niema recently stepped into the national spotlight to compete on the hit show Beat Bobby Flay.
Niema DiGrazia
Niema's culinary journey began in her native Freetown, Sierra Leone. She learned from a woman who she considers to be the best cook who ever lived – her mother. By her mother’s side, she honed her skills picking up many of the tips and tricks that have carried her throughout her career. She believes that “cooking is like building, it’s art – creating flavors.
Today, Neima has successfully mastered the art of mixing the flavors of the American South with those of her native Africa and adding just a touch of Caribbean cuisine. It's a style that has earned her a dedicated following in Shreveport and now, a national audience. Her appearance on the show was more than just a cooking competition; it was a chance to bring a taste of her culture and community to a mainstream platform.
Having no formal training, Neima is quick to point out that she graduated from “Mama’s University.” The bond she and her mother had is reflected in her unique personality and style and in the quality of her culinary creations. “As I build my flavors, it
just comes out with love. It comes from the soul, and I just go with the rhythm that I feel. It shows on the plate,” DeGrazia says, with her native accent. What you will see first as you sit down to one of her specialties is the beautiful, bright colors. Niema knows how important “presentation” is. “It’s part of the art form. I believe anything that we do, you want to present yourself to the highest point,” she proclaims. Niema has certainly nailed that goal.
I’ve mentioned Niema’s personal style. She is as colorful and energetic as some of her dishes. From her hairstyle to the vibrant clothes she wears, to the sparkle in her eyes, she is the persona of what I call “Sass,” which, in my book, is an attribute. When you’re around her, you can’t help but be drawn to her and wish you could bottle that “spice.” Which, come to think of it, she has. Niema has her own brand of spice that she uses. “It’s really everything that you use in your cabinet,” she says. “But instead of you opening 50 bottles to create and build a flavor, I have it in one bottle for you.” www.rnlauthentics.com
Niema isn’t alone in this whirlwind journey of hers. Her husband, Matthew DiGrazia, has been her backbone and biggest fan with every step. Matthew
is also a chef. Born and raised in Blanchard, Louisiana, is the shy partner of this team. But as Niema says, “Behind my success is a strong man who allows me to shine, who allows me to do what I do best.” Together, the DiGrazias are a force to be reckoned with.
Chef Niema DiGrazia stood triumphant in the “Beat Bobby Flay” competition. Her victory was met with immense pride in Shreveport. The city's Caddo Parish Commissioners honored her with a resolution, officially declaring a "Chef Niema Day" to recognize her achievement and her role as an ambassador for the city.
Too Late for Learning? Exploring Super-Aging and the Benefits of Lifelong Learning
By Donesa Walker, M.Ed. BCCS
He sat across from me stating that he was excited for the first time in a long time because someone finally believed in him and embraced the fact that learning was not just for the young but also the young at heart. At 82 years young, he was eager to demonstrate that he still had so much to give and so much to learn. As memory challenges came his way, he did not hesitate to say, no, not me… he came for help and boy has it changed his life. I know it is easy to think that this article is all about how LearningRx can help the brain, which we can, but that is not the topic. The topic is the timing for learning and to encourage you that the brain never quits learning.
The brain is always learning even to the moment of death. Recently, research has shown us that learning is a process that occurs even in our very last moments. Learning is a critical process that stimulates the brain to grow and become more. Learning to learn can happen at any age and we are told by data and research that learning new things and socialization are two of the most important skills for the brain to continue to stay active and stave off dementia.
Dementia is a very scary word. Dementia actually describes a group of symptoms affecting memory, thinking and social abilities.
These symptoms almost always interfere with a person's daily life. Dementia, however, is not one specific disease. Several diseases can cause dementia. Memory loss is one of the early symptoms of dementia. But having memory loss alone does not mean you have dementia because memory loss can have different causes from nutritional deficits to dehydration. Many people experience normal memory loss with aging and some experience more intensely due to medical issues. One important thing to remember is that memory is a trainable skill and a person does not
have to settle for losing memory. There are so many preventative measures that can be taken as well as great nutritional supplements and skills training. Jim Kwik, the author of the book Limitless says, “To be more productive, try learning how to learn!”
Learning how to learn requires knowing how your brain works and not being afraid to find out the areas of inefficiency. Inefficiency simply describes the lack of doing something automatically such as breathing. Our brains learn to acquire information in many different ways and understanding how our brains acquire information,
the boosting those skills is simple. It starts with choosing to learn no matter how old we are. I have a plaque in my office that was given to me by an 81-yearold smart woman. The plaque reads “Live life in full bloom.” She gifted it to me after one of her brain training sessions because she lives life just like that- in joy and beauty-in flowers and fragrancein embracing the what comes next as an adventure rather than something to dread. This mindset is the mindset that researchers are now studying as it is the mindset of a segment of people called the “superagers.” Superagers define a group of people who maintain mental agility up into their 80s and beyond. Researchers shared takeaways from 25 years of studying superagers, people aged 80 and up with exceptional cognition.
•Superagers tend to be social and independent, and their brains look younger and healthier than others their age.
•While genetics likely play a key role for superagers, experts say maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help everyone preserve brain health.
•They aim to get physical activity daily and eat a high-quality, plant-based diet.
•Superagers rarely drink and avoid smoking.
•Research revealed these adults had thicker cortexes, larger memory-related neurons, and resilience against typical Alzheimer’s-related proteins.
•Another critical factor I that they sleep 7-8 hours nightly.
•Keeping your brain active is also key. Hobbies like quilting, photography, music, theater, dance, or creative writing can help.
•Maintaining close relationships and finding a sense of purpose, whether through volunteering, caring for a loved one or even reading to children at a school or daycare. Some superagers even rocked babies at a hospital.
For more information on the research mentioned in article: https://alz-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/ doi/10.1002/alz.70312
The LSU Health Sciences Foundation (LSUHS Foundation) recently hosted their aptly named, “An Evening for Healers” on September 11th at the Shreveport Convention Center. The LSUHS Foundation of Shreveport is a 501c(3) non-profit organization that supports the development and growth of a world-class academic health center in North Louisiana by inspiring donors to invest in LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS), the medical school, and Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport. Ochsner LSU Health System of North Louisiana joined with LSUHS in 2018 to serve as the hospital side of the partnership. The partnership was launched with
a vision to improve access to care and patient care quality, upgrade facilities, expand patient-centered technology, support the medical school and expand research. This is the LSUHS Foundation’s 14th year to hold this fundraiser, and over the years the Evening for Healers has raised more than $3.5 million.
The funds raised by the LSUHS Foundation contribute to LSU Health Shreveport being able to recruit top-tier faculty, invest in cutting-edge equipment, and enhance student programs and scholarships across its three schools: the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and the School of Health Professions & Sciences,
as well as a robust research enterprise. The stated primary mission of LSU Health Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover to advance the well-being of the state, region and beyond. Kevin Flood, the President and CEO of the LSUHS Foundation, said, “LSU Health Shreveport plays an essential role in advancing healthcare and medical education in north Louisiana. When we support LSUHS, we’re helping to recruit exceptional faculty, foster groundbreaking research, and contribute to high-quality care for our community – today and for generations to come.” The evening also honored a group of people that our local community has extensive gratitude for: first responders, physicians, nurses,
allied health professionals and other healthcare providers who have made a lasting impact on patients at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport. In all, more than 50 first responders and healthcare professionals were honored at the event.
Healthcare is one of north Louisiana’s premier economic driving forces. LSU Health Shreveport has a direct economic impact of $600 million annually in Shreveport alone (there is also an LSU Health school in Monroe). Including practicing alumni of LSUHS, that figure rises to over $3 billion in the region. The Interim Chancellor of LSU Health Shreveport, Dr. Lester W. Johnson, said, “LSU Health Shreveport is
humbled and grateful by the continued financial support of An Evening for Healers. The funds raised at this event allow LSUHS to pursue time sensitive opportunities which have and will continue to be instrumental in the strengthening of our health sciences center.”
Ochsner Health was the presenting sponsor for this year’s Evening for Healers, and David Callecod, the CEO of Ochsner LSU Health, had this to say about the partnership: “Over the past seven years, the partnership between Ochsner and LSU Health Shreveport has transformed healthcare in North Louisiana. By combining our strengths, we’ve not only improved access to quality care but also advanced
medical education, research and innovation. This collaboration exemplifies how our community benefits when organizations share a vision for healthier communities and a brighter future.”
And strength and quality care are assuredly what our local community has been receiving. At the event, some of their patients’ stories were told through documentaries. One patient, Clint Bickham, suffered a severe spinal injury in November of 2024 after falling from a tree while hunting in the woods. Clint was unable to move his legs after the fall, and after calling for help from his friends, he was rescued by the Caddo Parish Fire Department and
transported to Ochsner LSU Health, where he had emergency spinal surgery to stabilize shattered vertebrae and relieve pressure on his spinal cord. After inpatient rehabilitation, he continued therapy at the LSU Health Shreveport School of Health Professions and Sciences Faculty Rehabilitation Clinic. Ten months after his accident, Clint is back to normal. “I’m so thankful for the care I received. Without the teams at Ochsner LSU Health and the rehabilitation clinic, I wouldn’t be able to play with my kids, I wouldn’t be able to go to work and spend time with my family. Because of them, I’m able to enjoy life again. I wouldn’t be here without them.”
In 2022, Temper and Xavier Williams faced a different kind of tragedy. Temper was pregnant
with twins, and lost one of them at 14 weeks, and then fought to save the other. At 22 weeks, she delivered baby Jubilee via emergency C-section at Ochsner LSU Health St. Mary Medical Center. At just 14 ounces, baby Jubilee was rushed to the NICU, where she spent nearly four months. Today, thanks to the expert care and swift action of the Ochsner LSU Health team, Jubilee is thriving at home. “Ochsner LSU Health really exceeded expecta-
tions with saving my daughter and helping her be who she is today,” said Jubilee’s father Xavier. “I will forever be grateful for all that they did – and continue to do – for our family.”
No doubt, Clint and the Williams are not the only people grateful for swift medical action via the Ochsner LSU Health system. To further the excellent medical care and ensure positive patient outcomes, a portion
of the funds raised this year will support the purchase of a piece of equipment for the NICU at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport, a Giraffe Warmer. These advanced pieces of medical equipment provide a stable, warm and carefully controlled environment for newborns, particularly premature or critically ill infants, who cannot regulate their own body temperature. Giraffe Warmers have an open design that also allows care teams to maintain immediate access to the baby while delivering lifesaving interventions.
As wonderful as these people and these inventions may be, hopefully you never need to see them, although we are grateful, they are in place just in case. For more information or to donate to these great causes, you can reach them at their websites, www.lsuhs.edu or www. lsuhsfoundation.org.
Readers Choice!
DR. LARRY SASAKI
Iam deeply honored and humbled to be recognized as one of the top doctors in our community. This recognition touches me profoundly, and I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude. First and foremost, I give praise to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, for blessing me with the opportunity, skills, and calling to serve the Shreveport-Bossier area for more than 30 years. This journey has been one of dedication, growth, and grace.
I owe much of my success to those who have stood beside me. My beautiful wife, Krist Sasaki, FNP-C, has been my greatest supporter and an integral part of our surgical practice. Her wisdom, strength, and compassion have been a steady source of encouragement throughout our journey together. I also want to recognize Penny Golden, known affectionately as “Tammy,” who has faithfully managed our office and touched the lives of countless patients and families. Her dedication has been invaluable. My journey began in Norman, Oklahoma, where I was born and raised. My father played a pivotal role in founding the meteorology department at the University of
Oklahoma, and today, the “Sasaki Institute” at OU stands in his honor. His passion for excellence and education inspired me to pursue a path of service through medicine. I began my college studies at the University of Oklahoma. Though my academic performance was solid, my parents believed that I had more to give. Encouraged by them, I transferred to Grinnell College, a small liberal arts school nestled in the middle of the vast cornfields of Iowa, where I completed my undergraduate degree. I then earned my medical degree at the University of Oklahoma, followed by a surgical internship at Yale University and general surgery training at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. Ultimately, I chose to pursue a fellowship in colorectal surgery at the University of Texas School of Medicine in Houston; a specialty that, of all things imaginable, seemed to call my name. After completing my training, I planned to return to Oklahoma. But in what turned out to be a providential “wrong turn” on I-20, I ended up in Shreveport. I first joined an established colon and rectal surgical group and later opened my own practice. Since then I’ve had the privilege of caring for thousands of patients, performing both general and colorectal surgeries, and continually honing my craft. In recent years, I’ve been honored to bring advanced minimally invasive techniques to this community, specifically the intuitive daVinci robotic procedure.
I would like to thank Drl James F. Smith at ACS Cardiology for serving as my spiritual leader. His weekly men’s Bible study at Christus Highland Hospital has been a source of strength and guidance, as the Holy Spirit clearly speaks through him. He has faithfully encouraged me and my fellow disciples to spread God’s word. I am deeply thankful and blessed to be entrusted with the care of my patients through the healing hands of Jesus Christ.
I would also like to express my appreciation to the editors and staff of SB Magazine for dedicating the time and resources to survey both the public and medical community, to thoughtfully select this topic, and to publish the Top Doctors and Dentists list recognizing excellence in the Shreveport Bossier area. As I reflect on the past three decades, I am filled with gratitude. To my patients: thank you for your trust. To my colleagues: Thank you for your support. And to the entire ShreveportBossier community: it has been the privilege of a lifetime to serve you.
Thank you for this incredible honor. I remain deeply committed to continuing this work with the same passion and purpose that brought me here so many years ago.
DR. SANDERS GRAF Readers Choice!
As a lifelong learner, Dr. Sanders Graf is always exploring new ideas and technologies in orthodontics and beyond. With a passion for education, service, and family, Dr. Graf has built his career around not only creating beautiful, healthy smiles, but also giving back to his community and his profession.
Dr. Graf was born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, as the second of four boys. After high school, he attended Louisiana State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree. During his time at LSU, he met his future wife, Eloise Kayser Graf, a native of Shreveport, Louisiana.
Determined to pursue a career in dentistry, Dr. Graf continued his education at the University of Alabama-Birmingham School
of Dentistry, where he earned his Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree. Drawn to the precision and creativity of orthodontics, he remained at UAB to complete a Certificate in Orthodontics and a Master’s Degree in Orthodontics.
Upon graduation from residency in 2006, Dr. Graf and his family moved back to the Shreveport and Bossier City area, where he established his orthodontic practice. Dr. Graf has since become known not only for his clinical expertise but also for his compassionate approach and genuine connection with his patients.
At the heart of Dr. Graf’s life is his family. He and Eloise have three children, Sanders Jr., Mae, and Nolen. When he’s not in the office, Dr. Graf can usually be found at a ball field or tennis court, cheering on his kids in their athletic pursuits. He is a proud and active member of the local community, frequently supporting school teams, charities, and community initiatives through sponsorships and volunteer work.
In addition to his community involvement,
Dr. Graf continues to give back to the field of orthodontics. He regularly attends both local and national meetings and is eager to advise young doctors whenever the opportunity arises. His commitment to lifelong learning and mentorship help to emphasize his belief that education does not end with a degree, it’s a continuous journey.
When he isn’t in the office, at a community event, or supporting one of his children at a game, Dr. Graf enjoys spending time outdoors. He is an avid LSU football fan and loves to attend their games. He also enjoys playing golf, tennis, and staying active through a variety of exercise routines.
Dr. Graf’s dedication to his patients, his profession, and his community has made him a trusted and respected figure in the Orthodontic field across Louisiana. His blend of professional excellence, personal warmth, and community involvement defines the high standards he sets for himself and the care he provides to every smile he helps shape.
SB Magazine is proud to present the members of our professional medical community in our annual Top Doctors and Dentists issue. We strongly believe that these people are vital contributors to this community’s well-being, extending their impact far beyond the walls of clinics and hospitals. Physicians, nurses, and other healthcare workers serve as pillars of public health, offering preventative care and health education that empowers individuals to lead healthier lives. They are first responders in emergencies, providing critical care and saving lives. Their presence ensures a safety net for the sick and injured, fostering a sense of security within the community. Furthermore, these professionals often volunteer their time for health screenings and charitable causes, embodying a commitment to service that enriches the social fabric and strengthens community bonds.
ABDOMINAL SURGEON
Michael Banda
Jim Barnes
Kamel Brakhta
James Burke
Jim Burt
Brett Chapman
Brian Dockendorf
Terry Lairmore
Sanaz Leilabadi
Mark Mainous
Kishore Malireddy
Kevin Marlar
William Morano
John Savoy
Amos Sit
Mark Smith
Erin Soleto
Rafael Tolentino
Andrew Werner
Stephen White
ADDICTION
PSYCHIATRIST
Olufemi Ogundeji
Sarah Hamauei
Jason Broussard
Kay Kennedy
Rich Sipes
Swamy Sabbenahalli
Caesar Gonzales
ALLERGIST / IMMUNOLOGIST
Gonzalo Alvarez del Real
Sami Bahna
Anand Bhat
Peter Boggs
Caroline Caperton
Lori Johnson
David Kaufman
Adil Khan
Juanita Valdes-Camacho
Shilpadevi Patil
Gregory Powell
Rathmony Rama
Scott Reid
David Renda
Harish Siddaiah
John Singletary
BARIATRIC SURGEON
Jim Barnes
Kamal Brakhta
George Merriman
CARDIOLOGIST
Ralph Baucum
Jagan Beedupalli
Anil Chhabra
Jerome Danzell
Paul Corky Davis
Jonathan Davis
William Britton Eaves
Joseph Fredi
Enrique Jimenez
Michael Gooszen
Magdy Hanna
William Haynie
Tarek Helmy
Ryan Jones
Basel Kasabali
Albert Krause
Boshra Louka
Siddharth Mahajan
Robert Martin
Ryan Master
George Mina
Kalgi Modi
Rodney Reeves
Phillip Rozeman
Amber Shah
Iqbal Singh
James Smith
Ray Smith
Rick Stafford
Ajaya Tummala
Michael Walton
Frederick White
Scott Wiggins
John Winterton
CARDIOVASCULAR
SURGEON
Ryan Masters
Ralph Baucum
Timothy Danish
Jonathan Davis
David Hamm
Syed Mehmood
David Mull
David Pennywell
Curtis Prejean
Vyas Rao
Ray Smith
R. Keith White
Robert White
Colon & Rectal
Surgeon
William Grimes
David Hamm
Brielle Hebert
Kevin Marler
Larry Sasaki
Michael Stratton
Andrew Werner
CRITICAL CARE
MEDICINE
Liza Byrd
Brett Chapman
Taylor Conrad
Himanshu Desai
Jonathan Eaton
David Green
Laurie Grier
Robert Holladay
Prathik Krishnan
Ronald Lambert
Kevin Langlois
Sanaz Leilabadi
Cory Markham
Kamal Masri
Richard Morrison
Nasim Motayar
Marco Quispe
Rafael Tolentino
Minh Tran
Christopher Trosclair
Ahmed Virani
Robert Walter
DERMATOLOGIST
Anne Bryan
Christopher Haas
David Clemons
David Cooksey
Donald Posner
Elizabeth Clemons
Jason Romero
Josephine Futrell
Laura Haynie
Sarah Baker
Sarah Glorioso
Skyla Souyoul
Steven Heard
DIAGNOSTIC
RADIOLOGIST
Chaitanya Ahuja
Alberto Simoncini
Octavio Arevalo
Heather Bracey
Aaron Burgin
Korey Burgin
Hugo Cuellar Saenz
Luis De Alba Padilla
Brian Dupree
John Hebert II
Tyler Plauche
Carlos Previgliano
Guillermo Sangster
Manash Sarcar
Justin Skweres
Nayanatara Swamy
Robert Vanderberg
Kelly White
Ramin Zamani
Alberto Simoncini
EMERGENCY
MEDICINE
Tom Arnold
Stephen Baker
Walter Bounds
Jacquelyn Bowers
Bryant Boyd
Paul Bracey
Roy Brandhurst III
Elaine Brown
Ryan Brown
Brian Caskey
Randall Davis
Tyler Davis
Sean Denham
Lauren Dulaney
David Easterling
John Felty
Kelli Harris
Andrew Haynes
Travis Headley
Richard Jacobson
David Janese
Kelly Lambard
Nathan Martin
Jeannie McCartney
Brittney Mitchell
Jason Mook
Justin Moore
John Netterville
Edward Paul
Jerel Raney
Nicholas Roberts
James Taylor
Todd Thoma
Monica Torres
Justine Tripp
Christopher Wolcott
John Woods
Endocrinologist
Melissa Albritton
Kamal Bhusal
Dakota Boston
Michelle Chico
Neslihan Gungor
Christian Koch
Steven Levine
Joshua Maier
Sasi Penukonda
Laura Kimball-Ravari
David Scarborough
Gabriel Uwaifo
FAMILY MEDICINE
PHYSICIAN
Michael Angelo
Pratibha Anne
Pat Bass
Charles Baxter
Thomas J. Bernard
Lindsey Brown
Jode Burgin
Hawk Cambron
Kevin Carter
Marc Chaudoir
Jessica Cook
Patric Darvie
Patrick Deere
Chris Earnhardt
Larry Flake
Jeffrey German
Noell Shae Gullatt
Clifton Hamic
Sherin Hanna Mercer
Kabiul Haque
William Mark Haynes
Fredrick Heard
Chase Herrera
Jan Hood
Elizabeth Hudnall
Ammar Husan
David Janese
Jennifer Kelly
Katie Kerr
Ann Landry
Vincent Lococo
Richard Luneau
Natalia Luraguiz
William Maranto
Mairus McFarland
Jessica McKenzie
Sherin Mercer
Richard Michaels
Jason Milligan
Wendy Moses
Roopashree Muralidhar
Kevin Murphy
Theresa Murphy
Daniel Payne
Cara Permenter
Scott Phillips
Daniel Piotter
Sara Preston
Jacob Sandoz
Ali Sangi
Peter Seidenberg
Robert Smith
Amanda Tse
Ted Warren
Clint Wilson
GASTROENTEROLOGIST
Humberto Aguilar
John Bienvenu
Qiang Cai
David Dies
James Hobley
Olivia Hockenjos
Sathya Jaganmohan
Webster Johnson
Nicolas LaBarre
Abby Linzay
Sherif Michael
James Morris
Ryan Palmer
David Philips
Arthur Poch
John Mark Provenza
Douglas Rimmer
GENERAL
SURGEON
Michael Banda
James Barnes
Kamel Brakta
Julie Broadwell
Jim Burke
Jim Burt
Brett Chapman
Brian Dockendorf
Terry Lairmore
Sanaz Leilabadi
Mark Mainous
Kishore Malireddy
Kevin Marler
William Morano
Bill Norwood
Wanda Pittman
Curtis Prejean
Kathryn Richardson
Larry Sasaki
John Savoy
Kevin Sittig
Christopher Sockrider
Erin Soleto
Jane Sugar
Sarah Thayer
Rafael Tolentino
Stephen White
HAND
SURGEON
Carl Bilderback
Diego Miranda
Ellis Cooper
Marjorie Chelly
Neal Cooper
GERIATRIC MEDICINE
Robert Savory
HEAD & NECK
SURGEON
Ameya Asarkar
Donnie Aultman
Michael Beal
Houston Bosley
Karuna Dewan
Ghali Ghali
Henry Hollier
John Lavo
Sherie-Ann Nathan
Amelia Ramsey
Clifford Rice
Blake Thornton
Robert Thornton
William Watkins
HEMATOLOGIST
Scott Boniol
Neelima Chintapalli
Manish Dhawan
Joyce Feagin
Majed Jeroudi
Kirtan Koticha
Tyler Lash
Robert Massingill
Maxwell McDonald
Prakash Peddi
Christopher Snead
Anil Veluvolu
HEPATOLOGIST
David Dies
HOSPITALIST
Adam Mossallati
Anna Craig
Khalid Boasman
Bruno Concejo
Craig Chu
David Hurtado de Mendoza Paz
Derek Munoz
Elliot Sorrell
Jennifer Prime
Kamlesh Jani
Chandana Karanam
Leocardy Pierre
Michael Sewell
Mohammad Akbarian
Peyman Roohani
Pouya Mafi
Royal Becker
Shalin Shakya
Suren Visvanathan
Vincent Klapper
Wen Liu
HYPERBARIC MEDICINE
Victoria Everton
Susan Kemp
Steven Kitchings
INFECTIOUS DISEASE
Halim Abou-Faycal
Mohammad Alam
Joseph Bocchini
Hector Brunet-Rodriguez
Meredith DeWitt
Alexandre Malek
Gerardo Negron
Guillermo Padilla-Pineda
Paulette Pinargote Cornejo
John Vanchiere
INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGIST
Trey Baucum
Jonathan Davis
Paul Davis
William Eaves
Joseph Fredi
Magdy Hanna
John Luka
Ryan Masters
George Mina
Rodney Reeves
Amber Shah
James Smith
Ray Smith
INTERNIST
Sara Adams
Sundeep Atluri
Attila Balogh
Pat "Ricky" Bass
Lauren Beal
Alan Brown
Claire Caraway
Erin Clements
Venerando Del Mundo
Vishal Devarkonda
Roan Flenniken
Andrew Gong
Paul Guidry
John Harris
Donald Haynes
Richard Haynie
James Jackson
Kennedy Lim
Wen Liu
Victoria Luraguiz
Scott McRight
Richard Michael
Craig Miller
Jina Miller
Roopashree Muralidhar
Maurie Patterson-Rosen
Pramod Ponna
Evelyn Pryor
Karla Querbes
Sarah Rainwater
Peyman Roohani
Eric Smith
Jessica Smith
Anthony Stuart
Mohammed Syed
Eric Thomas
Steen Trawick
Russell Tynes
Wendell Wall
MEDICAL GENETICIST
Mary Nordberg
Leonard Prouty
Medical
Oncologist
Kavitha Beedupalli
Scott Boniol
Gary Burton
Neelima Chintapalli
Joyce Feagin
Kevin Gallagher
Tharwat Ghattas
Majed Jeroudi
Mindie Kavanaugh
Muhammad Khawaja
Leslie Klein
Kirtan Koticha
Tyler Lash
Robert Massingill
Samip Master
Maxwell McDonald
Prakash Peddi
Christopher Snead
Anil Veluvolu
NEONATOLOGIST
Brent Whitten
Catherine Hall
Dayanand Bagdure
Arun Pramanik
Shabih Manzar
Maroun Mhanna
Surinder Tank
Bharti Manchandia
NEPHROLOGIST
Adrien Abreo
Kenneth Abreo
Sreedhara Alla
Arnold Barz
Randall White
Phillip Garavaglia
Srinivasa Iskapalli
Marwan Kaskas
Stephen Kilpatrick
Melissa Lynn
Sylvia Noble
Randall White
Michael Rokaw
Bharat Sachdeva
Carter Schwartz
Pallavi Shirsat
Karina Sulaiman
Peter Van
Randall White
Raja Zabaneh
NEUROLOGIST
Syed Abbas
Chaitanya Amrutkar
Sheila Asghar
Erik Burton
Meghan Harris
Mostafa Hotait
Dedrick Jordan
Roger Kelley
Alan Little
Ramsha Malik
Asim Naveed
Benjamin Nguyen
Robert Schwendimann
Sanjeevi Tivakaran
NEUROLOGICAL SURGEON
Peter Campbell
Bharat Guthikonda
Matthew Hefner
Christina Notorianni
John Reeves
Anthony Sin
David Toms
Jamie Toms
Andrew Utter
Rishi Wadhwa
NUCLEAR
MEDICINE
Specialist
Sanford Katz
OBSTETRICIAN / GYNECOLOGIST
Maria Bellmann
Karen Berken
Destin Black
Gregory Blanton
Amanda Bunton
Kevin Burleson
Russell Burleson
John Carter
Danielle Cooper
Amanda Deadmond
Marsha Friedrich
Christopher Gayle
Beth Geneux
Gina Gomez
Erin Gullatt
John Haynes
Ashley Hirsch
Frederick Kinder
Jacque Labarre
David Lewis
Hollie McCart
Kristi Michael
Ricky Paul
Greg Phillips
Benny Popwell
Robert Russell
Darrell Sandifer
Sarah Scotto
Stephanie Sockrider
Kerry Tynes
Latashia Upton
Kristy Waltman
Amanda Williams
Dani Zoorob
Lauren Morgan
OCCUPATIONAL
MEDICINE
Jenness Courtney
OPHTHALMOLOGIST
Yue Kong Au
Wilson Baber
John Brinkley
Claude Bundrick
William Byrd
John Carmody
Mary Clemons
Kelli Coleman
Wyche Coleman
Jeffrey Gosslee
Holly Guy
John Hinrichsen
Scott Kavanaugh
Bryan Lusk
James Lusk
Jeffrey Lusk
Wally Nawas
Thomas Redens
Christopher Shelby
Ashley Sipes
Darrell Spurlock
Paul Swearingen
Russell Van Norman
Bryan Vekovius
Sagar Desai
ORAL
SURGEON
Andrew Banker
Rachel Bishop
Ross Brockman
Wesley Carlisle
David Clark
Colten Ducote
Mary Fox
Caroline Garcia
Ghali Ghali
David Kim
Dongsoo Kim
Jason Lustig
Wendell Neeley
Celso Palmieri
Staven Patel
James Sikes
Cole Spigener
Jennifer Woerner
ORTHOPEDIC
SURGEON
Edward Anglin
Steven Atchison
Shane Barton
David Berkin
Scott Bicknell
Karl Bilderback
George Byram III
Mark Callanan
Peter Campbell
Vikram Chatrath
Brad Chauvin
Ellis Cooper
Stephen Cox
Benjamin Feibel
John Ferrell
David Googe
Richard Harrell
Marshall Haynie
Carlton Houtz
Val Irion
Steven Kautz
Jason Kinkartz
Chase Lobrano
Patrick Massey
John Mays
Diego Miranda
Kevin Bunn
Edward Morgan
Andrew Moritz
Michael Nammour
Andrew Patton
Jeffrey Pearson
Cambize Shahrdar
Craig Springmeyer
Timothy Talbert
Mark Wilson
Andrew Zhang
Michael Acurio
OTOLARYNGOLOGIST
Michael Beal
Paige Bundrick
Jason Calligas
Keith Christy
Karuna Dewan
David Hilton
Henry Hollier
Chuka Ifeanyi
Patrick Lavo
Gauri Mankekar
Kevin Moore II
Cherie-Ann Nathan
David Pou
Amelia Ramsey
Clifford Rice
Blakely Thornton
Robert Thornton
William Watkins
Michael Yim
PAIN MANAGEMENT
SPECIALIST
Varsha Allampalli
Brian Bernhardt
Randall Brewer
Azem Chami
David Hirsch
Alan Kaye
Rama Letchuman
Kathleen Majors
Matthew Mosura
Jai Munjamapalli
John Noles
Russell Stuermann
William Whyte II
Ross Nelson
PATHOLOGIST
Jehan Abdulsattar
Catherine Chaudoir
Valerie Lockhart
Gregory Wellman
Qihiu (Jim) Zhai
PEDIATRICIAN
Susmitha Anumukonda
Dayanand Bagdure
Joseph Bocchini
SheyEnne Carper
Abbey Carroll
Virginia Carter
Neera Chhabra
Jennifer Cockrell
Paul Cooper
Margaret Crittell
Angela Cush-John
Quynh Dang
Elise Edwards
Randall G. White Jr.
Megan Gardner
Holly Gill
Monica Haynes
Emily Hobson
Lynn Holliday
Ryan Jones
Cristal Kirby
Gene Mack
Rhett McLaren
Sarah McNeill
Margaret Critell
Kirsten Mosley
David Pace
William Parker
Gretchen Petterway
Bruce Pistorius
Mackey Quinlan
Sarah Rainwater
Ellen Ratliff
Scott Ritch
Bryan Roberts
Jennifer Seidenberg
Shalinee Singh
Wanda Thomas
Clifton Vaughan
Ashley White
PEDIATRIC
SURGEON
Kevin Boykin
Mark Brown
Cary Mielke
Donald Sorrells
PERINATOLOGIST
Scott Barrilleaux
Christian Briery
Clint Cormier
David Lewis
PLASTIC SURGEON
McIntyre Bridges
Julie Broadwell
Paige Bundrick
Paul Davis
Barron O'Neal
Lindsey Pennington
Jason Pou
Kenneth Sanders
Holly Wall
Simeon Wall, Jr
PSYCHIATRIST
Guy Brannon
Jason Broussard
Greg Brown
Marc Colon
Daniel Feeney
Mary Fitzgerald
Janice Hollier
Davanshi Jani
Jason Jordan
Anshuman Jyoti
Kathryn Kennedy
Lauren Lusk
Pamela McPherson
Matthew Menard
Olufemi Ogundeji
Rebecca Pistorius
Keerthiga Raveendran
Suresh Sabbenahalli
Patrick Sewell
Jasjit Singh
Rimi Singh
Katherine Smith
Lee Stevens
John Wagner
PULMONOLOGIST
Afsana Asharaf
Calvin Alexander
David Green
Dylan Harrell
Gerardo San Pedro
Gretchen Yandle
Himanshu Desai
Kamal Masri
Kevin Langlois
Laurie Grier
Prangthep Charoenpong
Prathik Krishnan
Randy Bryn
Robert Holladay
Robert Walter
Sasikumar Kilaikode-Cheruveettara
Scott Howard
Steven Conrad
Ahmed Virani
RADIATION ONCOLOGIST
Scott Boniol
Michael Durci
Sergio Jaramillo
Sanford Katz
Lane Rosen
Jake Wang
Benjamin Yan
RADIOLOGIST
Chaitanya Ahuja
Louis De Alba Padilla
Massoud Allahyari
Octavio Arevalo-Espejo
Brent Boudreaux
Heather Bracey
Aaron Burgin
Korey Burgin
Jason Campbell
Hugo Cuellar-Seanz
Brian Dupree
Michael Gates
John Hebert II
Wayne Homza
Joseph Milner
Tyler Plauche
Hebatallah Fouad Said
Guillermo Sangster
Manash Sarcar
Alberto Simoncini
Nayanatara Swamy
Kelly White
REPRODUCTIVE ENDOCRINOLOGIST
John Parry
Dave Vandermolen
RHEUMATOLOGIST
Aaron Broadwell
Larry Broadwell
Robert Goodman
Samina Hayat
Kurt Kampert
Mamatha Katikaneni
Kyla Lokitz
Frankie Pedigo
Mansi Shah
Sarwat Umer
Katie Walton
SLEEP DISORDER
SPECIALIST
Anand Bhat
Oleg Chernyshev
Brittany Monceaux
Nabil Moufarrej
Pratibha Anne
Samreena Sara
SPINE SURGEON
SPECIALIST
Peter Campbell
Bharat Guthikonda
Matthew Hefner
Stephen Hoge
Oner Khera
Milan Mody
Pierce Nunley
John Reeves
Anthony Sin
Jamie Toms
Rishi Wadhwa
Andrew Zhang
Eubulus Kerr
SPORTS MEDICINE
SPECIALIST
Kenneth Aguirre
Eddie Anglin
Shane Barton
David Berken
Naina Bouchereau-Lal
George Byram III
Mark Callanan
Vikram Chatrath
Benjamin Feibel
Carlton Houtz
Val Irion
Ruikang Liu
Patrick Massey
John Mays
Andrew Moritz
Andrew Patton
Craig Springmeyer
Timothy Talbert
Charles Webb
TRAUMATIC
SURGEON
Brett Chapman
Sanaz Leilabadi
Shane Rinehart
Navdeep Samra
Rafael Toletino
THORACIC
SURGEON
Timothy Danish
Brian Dockendorf
John Evans
David Pennywell
Vyas Rao
Robert White
UROLOGICAL
SURGEON
Ashley Baker
Stewart Bundrick
Alexander Gomelsky
Jared Moss
Thomas Palmer
Thomas Siskron
Alison Spann
Christopher Wilson
UROLOGIST
Ashley Baker
Stewart Bundrick
Kevin Cline
Donald Elmajian
Alexander Gomelsky
Gerard Henry
Jared Moss
James Noble
Thomas Palmer
David Price
Thomas Siskron
Alison Spann
Christopher Wilson
VASCULAR
SURGEON
Brian Dockendorf
Milon Karmakar
Paul Perkowski
Miles Sugar
Chiranjiv Virk
Keith White
Stephen White
DENTIST
Angela Bachtell
Brian Basinger
Ben Beach
Katie Beach
Johnny Black
Andrew Brouillette
Gary Caskey
Caroline Cobb
Jennifer Cooper
Adam Cormier
Daniel Crawford
Jason Dupree
Lester Ewing
Emile Geneux
Carlee Gilley
Zachary Goodman
Nick Governale
Larry Hand
Anna Haydel
Michael Haydel
Ryan Haygood
Caroline Haynie
Marlon Henderson
Walt Hollis
McKenzie Holloway
Christopher Hooper
Stephen Hooper
Raymond Jarvis
Benjamin Kacos
Jeffrey Kerst
James Lowder
Shane McPhearson
Kelly Milstead
Richard Moore
Chris Mott
Meredith Patton
Shelly Rabalais
Jeffrey Scruggs
Irina Simrell
Jon-Christian Stewart
Stephen Tyer
Morgan VanZandt
Lauren Wallace
Michael Weisner
Suzanne Windham
Michael Woolbert
Christopher Wright
DENTIST, PEDIATRIC
Shannon Backofen
Susan Chidlow
Corey Cloud
Holly Cook
Daniel Crawford
Jason Dupree
Jason Gambill
Karen Hake
Bryan Stewart
Lauren Wallace
ENDODONTIST
Kayla Byrne
Blaine Calahan
John Gilmer
Jay Turner
Jerald Turner
ORTHODONTIST
Cayce Cloud
Clay Cook
Chris Cosse
Benjamin Foster
Sanders Graf
Allison Haynie-Kerst
Morgan Lang
Peter Nasser
Jeffrey Silmon
AUDIOLOGIST
Misty Littleton
Leigh Norman
Courtney Ross
Nazifa Sultana
CHIROPRACTOR
John Barrington
Ryan Bates
Diamond Brown
Carl Crews
Kimberly Griggs
Paul Johnston
Jason Paro
Meghan Sanders
Richard Sanders
Brandon Venden
OCCUPATIONAL
THERAPIST
Amy Rinder
Heather Basinger
Heidi Journey
Jennie Bange
Jordan Quinn
Kaitlyn Nixon
Lawenica Evans
Molly Wierick
Susan Parker
Heather Basinger
Miller Dragna
Amy Rinder
Jordan Quinn
Kaitlin Prosinski
Taylor Rivers
Samantha Harrison
OPTOMETRIST
Sam Silverblatt
Charles Adams
Sean Adams
Anthony Barbiero
Gabrielle Boyd
Deana Clifton
Christine Davis
Sagar Desai
David Jordan
Stephen Lewis
John Luka
Scott Taylor
Marimel Tilley
Donald Walker
PHARMACIST
Marilyn Bertrand
Kanethia Daniel
Kyla Fulco
Kelly Rainwater
Justin LeBlanc
Christopher McIntyre
Ryan Oglee
Jude Olivier
Levi Reagan
Shomichael Stephens
Karen Widaman
Mike Wilkerson
PARAMEDIC/ EMT
George Alamond
Wesley Chase
Michael Coile
Stephen Dungan
Terry Jones
Daven Lazenby
Austin Tull
Physical Therapist
Nathan Aultman
Craig Barnes
Paul Bellotte
Brennen Bernard
Adam Brewer
Amanda Brewer
April Brown
Brent Burnham
Don Cassano
Rebekah Cole
Tyler Covington
Janet Crawford
Key Fincher
Chris Fultz
Morgan Griffin
Mark Hart
Tony Henley
Lisa Hooper
Nicholas Huckaby
Robert Kenney, III
Scott LeBlanc
Abigail Leonard
Jennifer Ling
Ginger Loftin
Johanna Lough
Matthew Martin
Ashley McCollough
Anna Moore
Nick Russell
Kelli Snyder
Rachel Spivey
Suzanne Tinsley
Zach Voss
Elizabeth Walls
Tim Wheelahan
Trent Wierick
PODIATRIST
Gregory Bryan
Phuoc Bui
David S. Drummond
R. Blair Drummond
Gentry Haughton
Richard Havens
Henry Hilario
Rebecca McGaha
PSYCHOLOGIST
Sarah Drummond
Gayle Gucker
Bethany Lusk
James Pinkston
Mark Vigen
Michelle Yetman
RESPIRATORY
THERAPIST
Amy Hollis
Barbie Mann
SPEECH-LANGUAGE
Pathologist
Riley Eason
Inez Esparza
Julianna Haynes
Abby Howell
Mary Howerton
Brooklyn Josey
Megan Lerchie
Mikael McGill
Meredith McLain
Courtlynn Parker
Ninnette Pennell
Brooke Schafer
Leah Sullivan
Mary "Katie" Walker
Emily Watkins
Dana Williams
Top Doctors and Dentists Advertising Directory
Dr. David Abdahue
IN HOME CARE, for residents of Montclair and the Chateaus
Tothe Shreveport–Bossier Community, It is with great joy and gratitude that I introduce myself to you, not only as a physician who has had the privilege of serving this community for decades, but also as someone whose dream of practicing medicine was planted right here in Shreveport many years ago.
My desire to become a physician began when I was about nine years old. At that time, I vividly remember when doctors still made house calls. I recall the sense of relief and reassurance that would come over my family whenever the doctor arrived at our home to care for an ill loved one. Those experiences left a lasting impression on me as a child. They showed me that medicine was not only about treatments and remedies, but also about presence, compassion, and the comfort of being cared for at home. That memory never left me, and it became the driving force behind my lifelong dream of becoming a physician.
That dream became a reality approximately 35 years ago when I graduated from the LSU Medical Center here in Shreveport. Since then, it has
been my honor and privilege to serve our community as a board-certified internist practicing traditional medicine. I first began my career at Schumpert Medical Center, where I practiced for five years, and then continued at Willis-Knighton Pierremont, where I have now served for more than 25 years. Throughout my practice, I have always strived to uphold the values of compassion and personal care that inspired me as a child.
Early in my medical career, I came to recognize an important need in our community: our elderly population deserved more than just medical care—they needed a community where their quality of life could be enhanced in every way possible. Out of this vision, Montclaire Park Assisted Living was born. Over the past 25 years, Montclaire has grown to become one of the largest and most respected assisted living and memory care centers in our state. It has been one of the great privileges of my life to help build and nurture this community, where residents not only receive the support they need, but also enjoy dignity, enrichment, and a sense of belonging.
Most recently, I have been able to come full circle with my childhood inspiration by offering what I call “traditional house calls” to the residents of Montclaire Park Assisted Living and Chateaus Memory Care Center. Just as those doctors once visited my family’s home when I was a child, I now have the privilege of visiting residents in their homes within our community, providing them with medical care in the most personal and meaningful way
possible. This has brought my career full circle, transforming a boyhood dream into a daily reality.
As I continue to serve, I remain deeply committed to the health, well-being, and dignity of our community. I am grateful for the trust Shreveport and Bossier residents have placed in me throughout the years, and I look forward to continuing this journey together— providing care, comfort, and connection for many years to come.
With gratitude and respect, David
Abdehou, M.D.
REDEFINING CANCER CARE IN NORTHEAST LOUISIANA
Dr Tharwat Ghattas, MD, is more than a physician He is a leader, a listener, and a relentless advocate for his patients With near ly two decades of exper ience in inter nal medicine and oncology, Dr Ghattas br ings together academic exper tise and genuine compassion to offer a new kind of cancer care one that is fast, thorough, and deeply personal. Trained at Cairo University and LSU Health Shrevepor t, Dr Ghattas has held leadership roles including Chief Hospitalist, Chief of Medicine, and Regional Director of Population Health for one of the largest physician groups in the countr y. He has been recognized among Shrevepor t's "40 Under 40" and received the "Chief of the Year" award.
But his patients know him as the doctor who shows up, listens carefully, and acts with urgency
Now opening his own practice in Monroe, Dr Ghattas is creating a patient-first oncology and hematology center where no one feels over looked. His care goes beyond the medical char t, focusing on whole-person healing with suppor tive ser vices and clear, timely communication Here, ever y patient is treated like family. Whether you are a patient, caregiver, or referr ing provider, you'll find something different with Dr Ghattas He is committed to raising the standard of cancer care in our community one life at a time When he says, "We've got your back," he means it.
Ghatta
1455 E. BERT KOUNS IND. LOOP, SUITE 102
SHREVEPORT, LA 71105
OFFICE: (318) 798-4595
FAX: (318) 908-4045
2806 MARK DR
MONROE, LA 71201
OFFICE: (318) 460-5127
FAX: (318) 209-7346
The road to remission starts in Shreveport
Richard Mansour, MD Hematology Oncology
The journey from diagnosis to remission can be challenging. At Ochsner LSU Health in Shreveport, you have a dedicated team by your side every step of the way. Our Center of Excellence in Research, Treatment and Education provides comprehensive care for patients of all ages, including coordination with our Comprehensive Breast Imaging Center at our St. Mary Medical Center.
Visit ochsnerlsuhs.org to learn how Ochsner LSU Health is bringing remission closer to home.
SHREVEPORT BOSSIER FAMILY DENTAL CARE DENTISTRY
For over 38 years, Shreveport Bossier
Family Dental Care has been a dental office like no other. They’ve pushed boundaries with innovation and technology and shaped the smiles of the Shreveport-Bossier City community with their expertise.
Many of their talented, cutting edge dentists have special niches that ensure patients get a quality experience each visit. They’re constantly learning from each other to become better dentists and clinicians. Seminars and continuing education courses are the norm, and new information learned is shared between colleagues.
Each patient is provided an individualized dental plan that ensures comfort, trust, and relaxation while in the dental chair. Patients are made to feel at ease and at home during office visits — just like they are part of the family. Painless, worry-free appointments are
the goal. Relationships are important — and so are beautiful, healthy smiles.
With 5 locations across the Shreveport Bossier area and open 6 days a week, they can cater to the patient’s schedule or desired location. They not only routinely exceed patients’ expectations, but also go above and beyond to give everyone the best dental experience possible.
A wide range of insurance is accepted, and financial assistance is given to patients who need it. There is also a loyalty program available to make dental care affordable for patients without insurance benefits.
In 2014, they founded Trading Smiles, a free dental day in the spring, to service the needs of uninsured citizens in the community. Patients are able to trade two canned goods for a dental service such as a cleaning, extraction, or filling. The items are then donated to the NWLA
Food Bank.
3 Miles for Free Smiles, a 5K race and fundraiser that supports local oral and maxillofacial surgery teams, was founded in 2016. $13,000 has been raised for children at Shriner’s Hospital Shreveport and the LSU Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Teams for the repair of cleft lips and palates.
The staff provides services from routine cleanings, fillings, and cosmetics to full mouth reconstruction, dental implants, Invisalign, sleep related breathing disorder solutions, and Botulinum toxin and Dermal Fillers for facial esthetics and myofascial pain. Sedation dentistry is offered to patients for a more relaxing experience.
All twelve doctors participate in donated dental services. They’ve been able to donate over 1,342 hours of skill and give over $574,000 to those that need it most. They feel everyone should have the opportunity for a beautiful, healthy smile.
SHREVEPORTBOSSIERDENTAL.COM
2119 AIRLINE DRIVE, #700 BOSSIER CITY, LA 71111
910 W. BERT KOUNS INDUSTRIAL LOOP SHREVEPORT, LA 71118
4955 N. MARKET ST., #500 SHREVEPORT, LA 71107
3412 BARKSDALE BLVD., SUITE 400 BOSSIER CITY, LA 71112
8510 LINE AVE SUITE A SHREVEPORT, LA 71106 318.686.7470
SHREVEPORT BOSSIER FAMILY DENTAL CARE FOR KIDS DENTISTRY
Shreveport Bossier Family Dental Care for Kids dentist, Bryan Stewart loves working with children every day and making their dental visits as comfortable as possible.
“When I was a child, my local dentist was awesome and inspired me to become one,” said Stewart, a Shreveport native who has been practicing for 29 years. “I love helping a child go from fearing a dentist visit to making it the best visit he or she has ever had.”
Stewart enjoys what he does and can’t see himself doing anything else. He provides dentistry for infants, toddlers, and adolescents in a kid-friendly environment, and focuses on comprehensive care that will give kids a healthy smile that will last a lifetime.
Compassion and the desire to help are prerequisites to be a dentist, and Stewart has those qualities covered. He can best be described as jovial, and this trait has helped him relate to children and be more emphatic to parents and their situations.
In 2023, Dr. Karen Hake, Pediatric Dentist joined the practice. She is a mom of 4, proud wife, and a grandmother of 3! She loves dogs and fosters rescue dogs. “I love dentistry and cannot imagine doing any other career. When not working, I love to travel, attend concerts and hang out with my husband/family and dogs,” Hake says.
“We understand it can be difficult to get your kids to cooperate at the dentist,” Stewart said. “We do all we can to make them comfortable, and we have tools and techniques to do just that. Our mission is to help your child have an out-of-this-world experience in an office that’s all about them!”
3412 BARKSDALE BLVD., SUITE 100 BOSSIER CITY, LA 71112 318-213-4693 SHREVEPORTBOSSIERKIDS.COM
Dr. Victoria Luraguiz
Regenerative & Longevity Medicine
We use advanced peptides and cuttingedge science to help you age gracefully — because you deserve to feel as vibrant as you look.
Next-Level Aesthetics
Fractional CO₂ and PRP hair restoration that deliver results so natural, people will wonder what your secret is. (spoiler: it’s us)
Hormonal Harmony
Biote therapy and EmpowerRF treatments that get your body singing in perfect pitch again — because balance is everything.
Your Glow-Up Starts Here
We didn’t just get new certifications to hang pretty certificates on the wall. We earned them because extraordinary people deserve extraordinary care — the kind that makes you feel like the main character in your own story.
Concierge Medicine
Remember when your doctor actually knew your name? We do healthcare the way it should be—with quality time, 24/7 access, and a personalized approach that puts you first, not last.
Dr. Natalia Luraguiz
Christen Lummus, PA; Taeyong Choi, MD; Veron D. Browne, MD
Donnie Aultman, MD; Gazi Zibari, MD; Robert McMillan, MD
Alana Hofmann, MD; Andrew C. Crane, MD
Willis Knighton John C. McDonald Transplant Center Life Changing Care Close to Home
When serious illness affects your liver, kidney or pancreas, the path forward can feel overwhelming. In those moments, patients and families depend on hope grounded in medical expertise and a compassionate team that walks with you every step of the way.
Hope and healing come together at Willis Knighton John C. McDonald Transplant Center, where every aspect of your care is guided with respect, compassion and a focus on achieving the best possible outcome for you, your family and your future.
A Team Built Around You
Transplants can be complex and sometimes intimidating, and our multidisciplinary team is here to guide you through each phase of the process. Our surgeons and physicians
bring diverse expertise together to create personalized, patient-centered care plans.
From social workers to dietitians, financial coordinators to pharmacists, you’ll have support from professionals who understand the medical, emotional and practical sides of transplant care. No problem is too small. No question is unimportant.
Gift of Time. Gift of Life.
When you are waiting for a transplant, time matters. Patients at Willis Knighton John C. McDonald Transplant Center often wait less time than the national average for organ offers — an important advantage when every day counts.
Behind each transplant is an extraordinary gift of generosity. Organ donors and their families give more than just an organ; they give the gift of life. Their courage and compassion inspire everything we do. Our team is deeply grateful for their selflessness, and we honor their gift by delivering care with the utmost dedication and respect.
We are deeply grateful to organ donors and their families for their selfless gifts. Their generosity changes lives, and our program is forever indebted to their courage and compassion.
Support Beyond Surgery
Cost of care should not be a barrier to the healthcare you need. Our financial coordinators work with you one-on-one to make the process clear and manageable. We help you understand insurance, explore payment options and connect with available resources.
We know that navigating healthcare can be stressful. That’s why our team takes extra steps to ease the burden, so you can focus on what matters most — your health, your recovery and your future.
Experience That Matters
Willis Knighton John C. McDonald Transplant Center is home to some of the most advanced procedures available, supported by the latest technology and a longstanding commitment to excellence. This wide range of services reflects the depth of our experience and our ability to provide the right solution for each patient.
Transplant procedures:
• Liver transplant
• Kidney transplant, including robotic renal transplant
• Kidney/pancreas transplant
• Pancreas transplant
• Living kidney donor transplant
Other procedures:
• Hemodialysis vascular access
• Laparoscopic peritoneal catheter placement
• Thyroidectomy
• Parathyroidectomy
• Robotic and open surgeries, including:
- Whipple
- Pancreatic
- Liver
- Gallbladder
- Common bile duct
- Splenectomy
- Adrenalectomy
• Robotic management of superior mesenteric artery syndrome
• Robotic approach to median arcuate ligament syndrome
• Robotic donor nephrectomy
Here for You
Considering a transplant can be a lifechanging decision. Whether you’re exploring transplant as a treatment option or you’re ready to begin your journey, our team is here with answers, education and support.
We welcome you to schedule an educational visit to learn more about our approach, meet our team and discover how we can help you reclaim your health and your life.
Willis Knighton John C. McDonald
Matthew I. Hefner, MD, FAANS
WK Precision Neurosurgery
When brain, spine or nerve conditions limit your life, the right care can help you move forward with confidence. At WK Precision Neurosurgery, you’ll benefit from advanced technology and compassionate expertise to relieve pain, restore function and improve your quality of life.
Less Pain. Faster Recovery.
Many procedures that once required large incisions can now be performed through openings as small as one to two centimeters. Our minimally invasive approach often allows patients to go home the same day with less pain and fewer complications.
Care Centered on You
Every patient’s journey is unique. Our team takes time to listen, answer your questions and build a personalized treatment plan. From delicate cranial surgery to complex spine procedures, you’ll find treatments designed to maximize safety and minimize recovery time.
A Local Leader in Advanced Neurosurgery
Matthew I. Hefner, MD, FAANS, leads WK Precision Neurosurgery with a focus on innovation and patient-centered care. As a board-certified neurosurgeon, he brings expertise in the latest surgical techniques while keeping his focus on what matters most—helping you regain quality of life.
Why choose WK Precision Neurosurgery?
You’ll find advanced technology, innovative treatment options and a team that truly listens. Whether it’s relieving pain, restoring mobility or helping you return to the activities you love, Dr. Hefner and his team are ready to guide you from diagnosis to recovery. Visit Matthew I. Hefner, MD, Jenna Smith, NP, Krista Sellers, NP, Steven McRae, NP, and Joy Anne Harmon, NP, at WK Precision Neurosurgery.
Get Back in the Game
Andrew J. Moritz, MD; Vikram “Vik” Chatrath, MD; John T. Mays, MD
Diego A. Miranda, MD; David S. Drummond, DPM
Choose Willis Knighton Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine Bossier
Do joint pain or injuries have you sitting on the sidelines? Life keeps moving and so should you. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or managing a chronic condition, our team works to restore your strength, flexibility and range of motion so you can return to an active lifestyle.
Comprehensive Care for Every Joint
Your knees, hips, shoulders, hands and feet deserve our orthopedic surgeons who bring advanced skills and proven techniques to treat your bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments and connective tissues. From sprains and fractures to arthritis and complex injuries, you’ll find expert care to fit your needs.
Advanced Diagnostics. Innovative Solutions.
Our team uses state-of-the-art imaging and diagnostic tools to pinpoint the cause of your pain. After that we create a personalized treatment plan that may include nonsurgical therapies, minimally invasive procedures or even surgical repair. We lead the way with advanced robotics, a 3D knee and even augmented reality for accuracy in hip surgery.
Care for All Ages
Young athletes, weekend warriors, active adults or older people dealing with painful arthritis –everyone needs care to keep them moving and enjoy life. No matter your injury or condition, we will guide your recovery with therapies and treatments that support long-term strength and performance.
When pain slows you down, don’t stay on the sidelines. Trust the team at Willis Knighton Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine Bossier. Let us get you back in the action.
Vikram “Vik” Chatrath, MD
David S. Drummond, DPM
John T. Mays, MD
Andrew J. Moritz, MD
Diego A. Miranda, MD
Kailey Dodson, NP
Taylor Frazier, NP
Crista Hays, PA-C
Joseph A. Nicholas, PA
Ashley Pulley, PA
Emily F. Cecil, NP
John Noles, MD, Emily LeBlanc, PA, David Hirsch, MD, Russell Stuermann, MD
Tyra C. Brown, PA, Sarah Brantley, PA, Hillary Davis, PA, Bridget W. Whittington, PA Nancy Germany, MD, Stephanie Ledoux, PA, Kelsey Ellender-Barthel, PA-C (not pictured)
At Spine & Pain Specialists, our physicians focus on using comprehensive, state-of-the-art treatments for back pain, neck pain as well as other chronic pain syndromes. Our goal is to treat low back and neck pain as early as possible to prevent it from becoming a chronic and lifelong problem. Dr. John Noles, Dr. David Hirsch, and Dr. Russell Stuermann are double board certified in anesthesiology and pain management. Dr. Germany brings a multi-specialty approach to the practice offering Botox injections as well as acupuncture. We use the latest technology available to safely and effectively treat our patients.
All treatments offered at Spine & Pain Specialists are minimally invasive and most are nonsurgical. Our approach is to first identify the source of a patient’s pain so that we can create a treatment plan best suited for each patient. Each treatment plan is designed to improve quality of life as well as overall function. We offer a comprehensive array of treatments including non-narcotic medications and injection therapy. One of our primary goals for our patients is to decrease or eliminate opioid (narcotic) medications. Our treatment plan only uses narcotic pain medication when all other options have been exhausted.
Our team of doctors, physician extenders, nurses, medical assistants, and administrative staff at Spine & Pain Specialists recognizes that coping with pain is very difficult and burdensome for the patient as well as their family members and friends. We treat each patient with the same care and compassion we would want for our family members.
Visit John Noles, MD, David Hirsch, MD, MBA, Russell Stuermann, MD, Nancy Germany, MD, Bridget Whittington, PA-C, Emily LeBlanc, PA-C, Tyra Brown, PA-C, Hillary Davis, PA-C, Sarah Brantley, PA-C, Stephanie Ledoux, PA-C, Jordan Wyatt, PA-C, and Kelsey Ellender-Barthel, PA-C at one of their offices in Shreveport and Bossier City.
Every stage of childhood brings new joys — and new health needs. From the moment your baby is born to the exciting milestones of adolescence and young adulthood, our team at Willis Knighton Pediatric Healthcare Associates is here to guide your child’s health journey with expertise, compassion and care you trust.
We know children aren’t just small adults. They have unique physical, emotional and developmental needs that require specialized attention. That’s why our pediatricians take the time to listen carefully, answer your questions and create care plans to fit your child’s life. In our bright, welcoming clinic, kids feel comfortable and parents feel supported.
Prevention is the cornerstone of lifelong wellness. Routine checkups, immunizations and screenings help us track your child’s growth and catch concerns early, giving them the best chance to thrive. These visits also give families the opportunity to talk with their pediatrician about everything from nutrition and sleep habits to school performance and social development.
When illnesses or injuries happen, we’re here with prompt and skilled medical care. Whether your child has an ear infection, fever, stomach bug or a more serious condition, you can trust that our doctors will provide attentive care and clear guidance every step of the way.
For children managing ongoing health needs, we offer support for chronic conditions. Our pediatricians provide nutritional and dietary counseling, as well as evaluations and care for ADD and ADHD — helping kids build the toolbox they need to succeed both in school and at home.
For added convenience, we offer in-house laboratory and X-ray services right in our clinic. Our location near Willis Knighton Pierremont means additional resources are only steps away.
At Willis Knighton Pediatric Healthcare Associates, we combine decades of experience with a genuine love of caring for children. Our mission is simple: to help your child grow into a healthy, confident and happy young adult.
Our services at a glance:
• Check-ups to keep kids growing strong, with immunizations and screenings
• Expert treatment for illnesses, injuries and infections
• Support for chronic conditions
• Nutritional and dietary counseling
• ADD and ADHD evaluations and management
• On-site lab and X-ray services, with hospital support nearby
Zainab Manan, MD; Bruce J. Pistorius, MD, FAAP, FCP; William D. Parker, MD, FAAP
Monica L. Haynes, MD, FAAP; Lynne F. Holladay, MD; Ashley M. White, MD, FAAP
BREWER PHYSICAL THERAPY
PHYSICAL THERAPY
AtBrewer Physical Therapy, our mission is simple: YOU come first.
From your first visit to your final step of recovery, our team of compassionate providers works alongside you to restore movement, reduce pain, and help you return to the activities you love.
With multiple locations and a team of highly skilled therapists and providers, we deliver evidence-based care in a welcoming environment that treats you like family. Whether you’re recovering from surgery, managing chronic pain, or looking to prevent future injury, we are here to guide you every step of the way.
• ONE-ON-ONE PERSONALIZED TREATMENT PLANS
• STATE-OF-THE-ART THERAPY TECHNIQUES AND EQUIPMENT
• CONVENIENT LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU BETTER
• A TEAM COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE IN CARE
When you choose Brewer Physical Therapy, you’re choosing more than just treatment—you’re choosing a team dedicated to your health, recovery, and long-term well-being.
Family runs deep at Foster Orthodontics. Both Drs. Benjamin C. Foster and Jason B. Cope are second generation orthodontists, both sons of Shreveport-Bossier orthodontists. Both Drs. Foster and Cope strive to continue providing exceptional orthodontic services to their patients, carrying on their Fathers’ legacy.
The ideal age to initially see patients is age 7, not necessarily to perform treatment but to assess current dental development and bite issues. Usually, small problems can be caught early with easy solutions that prevent bigger problems down the road.
Orthodontics is about more than just teeth; It’s about improving self-confidence and appearance. It’s for people missing teeth, and for people with jaw problems or other facial issues that prevent the proper function of the teeth and bite.
To correct a wide range of orthodontic issues, Foster Orthodontics specializes in the Damon System (clear and metal braces), and clear aligner therapy
Shreveport • Stonewall • Bossier City,
Beyond doctor to patient. Person to person.
You’re someone’s favorite person. So, we treat you like our favorite person. It’s our primary responsibility to get to know you and your health. When you’re in our care, we treat you like a person, not just a patient. We talk to you, ask you questions and listen to your concerns carefully. At CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic, you can count on care that feels human. Visit CHRISTUShealth.org to explore our primary care options today.
HENDERSON DENTISTRY,LLC GENERAL DENTISTRY
AtHenderson Dentistry LLC, Dr. Marlon D. Henderson provides comprehensive oral health care in a comfortable, friendly, and professional setting to help meet the individual dental needs and desires of Shreveport-Bossier City and surrounding communities.
Dr. Marlon D. Henderson is a native of Shreveport, Louisiana. He is a graduate of Northwood High School, where he was Class Valedictorian. Dr. Henderson graduated from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge with a Bachelor of Science. He received his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center School of Dentistry in New Orleans. Dr. Marlon D. Henderson then completed a General Practice Residency at the Medical Center of Louisiana (Charity Hospital) in New Orleans, where he served as Chief Resident.
Dr. Marlon D. Henderson currently serves as Vice-President of the Diverse Dental Society. He is a Fellow in the American College of Dentists and a Fellow in the International College of Dentists. He is a member of the Louisiana Dept. of Health Dental Quality Subcommittee. And, Dr. Henderson is a Past President of the National Dental Association.
In 2026, he will serve as President of the Diverse Dental Society and will participate in the Sweet Spot Leadership Program of the American College of Dentists.
In his spare time, Dr. Henderson enjoys traveling, all things LSU, attending music festivals, and family time with his wife Nikki and son Maxwell.
CLEAR Vision at Every Age: How Modern Lens Technology Is Transforming Life After 40
Let’s face it, turning 40 usually marks the beginning of struggling to read a menu, squinting at our computer screens, or juggling multiple pairs of glasses. This frustrating condition known as presbyopia is simply a natural aging process that makes our eye’s lens less flexible and diminishes our near vision. Until recently, readers, bifocals or contact lenses were the only reliable solution.
Thankfully, new advances in vision correction at Lusk Eye Specialists now offer life-changing alternatives for those of us who want clear, natural vision without dependence on ANY type of prescription eyewear…at ANY age!
CLEAR / REFRACTIVE LENS EXCHANGE
One of our most exciting options is CLEAR (Clear Lens Extraction And Replacement), also referred to as Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE). CLEAR involves replacing your eye’s natural
lens with a customized intraocular lens (IOL). For individuals in their 40s and 50s, CLEAR not only corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, but also prevents you from ever needing cataract surgery. The latest generation of multifocal IOLs takes this one step further, offering crisp distance vision as well as excellent intermediate and near vision. This allows you to drive, work on a computer, and read fine print—all without glasses.
EVO IMPLANTABLE COLLAMER LENS
If you’re under 40 and considering LASIK, Lusk surgeons also offer the EVO Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL). Unlike RLE, which replaces the lens, the EVO ICL is placed just behind the iris and in front of the natural lens. Made of advanced biocompatible material, our EVO lens corrects high levels of nearsightedness and astigmatism while preserving your eye’s natural anatomy. Our patients appreciate that EVO is minimally invasive, offers rapid recovery,
and can be removed or replaced if your vision needs change in the future.
CUSTOMIZE YOUR VISION CORRECTION
What makes our lens technologies remarkable is their adaptability to your unique lifestyle. Lusk surgeons can now mix and match lens types—choosing multifocal IOLs for someone who values reading vision, or EVO ICLs for patients who want a reversible solution. With our advanced diagnostic tools guiding precise customization, the results are sharper, more natural, and longer-lasting than ever before.
RECLAIM YOUR VISUAL FREEDOM
At Lusk Eye Specialists, our innovations are not simply about ditching glasses. They’re about reclaiming freedom—the ability to wake up and see clearly, enjoy sports, traveling, and embrace daily life without the inconvenience of eyewear…at ANY age! Thanks to RLE, EVO ICL, and multifocal IOLs, clear vision is no longer limited by age.
Learn your options by calling Lusk Eye Specialists today at 318-222-5555.
WWW.LUSKEYE.COM
MID CITY PEDIATRICS
PEDIATRICS
Mid City Pediatrics has a history of providing outstanding patient care for children in Northwest Louisiana for over 30 years. Mid City Pediatrics is the oldest independently owned pediatric practice in the ShreveportBossier City community. With a combined clinical experience of more than 100 years of caring for children in our area, the doctors continue to provide excellent care to children of all ages.
Mid City Pediatrics is conveniently and centrally located near the intersection of I-20 and I-49. The office offers numerous amenities, including separate sick and well entrances and waiting areas, a certified lab, and on-site x-ray services. You will always find a cheerful atmosphere, kid-friendly exam rooms, and free Wi-Fi service offered for parents’ convenience.
Mid City Pediatrics is open 6 days a week, and one of the seven physicians is always
on call after hours. They offer same-day appointments along with walk-in visits. The physicians at Mid City Pediatrics feel that offering same-day sick walk-in visits are a necessary part of a pediatric practice. As parents themselves, they know that you cannot schedule when your child becomes ill and needs prompt pediatric care.
Mid City Pediatrics takes pride in being a completely independent practice, allowing them to stay progressive in a time of constant change. Mid City Pediatrics has been a front-runner in innovating and adapting to better serve its patients and their families. In 2020, they were the first pediatric practice in the area to offer a drive-through flu vaccine clinic. The practice offers an informational website as well as an active Facebook and Instagram page to keep parents informed on relevant topics. Mid City Pediatrics also offers a
convenient check-in process in which patients simply scan a QR code in the parking lot. This allows families the option of remaining in their vehicle for the duration of their wait, or they may choose to come inside to wait in one of the two waiting rooms. Once inside, patients are cared for by knowledgeable, caring staff trained in pediatric care.
The practice gained three new physicians over the last several years, making Mid City Pediatrics the largest pediatric practice in the area. The physicians make newborn hospital rounds at all private, community hospitals in the Shreveport and Bossier City areas, allowing more flexibility to patients. Mid City Pediatrics accepts most major insurance plans.
The physicians welcome you to make an appointment today and become a member of the Mid City Pediatric family where you will receive “Great Care for Great kids!”
2225 LINE AVE.
SHREVEPORT, LA 318.221.2225
WWW.MIDCITYPEDS.COM
LEFT TO RIGHT: DAVID J. PACE, M.D., GRETCHEN G. PETTERWAY, M.D., BRYAN L. ROBERTS, M.D., ANGELA CUSH-JOHN, M.D., SCOTT E. RITCH, M.D., ELLE F. RATLIFF, M.D., AND JENNIFER P, COCKRELL, M.D.
Dr. David Clark
Dr. Rachel Bishop
ORAL SURGERY ASSOCIATES
ORAL SURGERY
Dr. David Clark graduated from C.E. Byrd High School in 1997 and received his under-graduate from Louisiana Tech. After attending dental school at NYU College of Dentistry, he received training on oral and maxillofacial surgery at Washington Hospital Center. Following his residency, Dr. Clark joined Oral Surgery Associates in 2011. He is a member of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, Louisiana Society Dental Association.
Dr. Rachel Bishop, D.D.S., M.D, received her undergraduate degree in Biology from Texas A&M University. After attending dental school at The University of Texas Dental School in Houston, she went on to earn her medical degree from The University of Texas School of Medicine in Houston. Following medical school,
Dr. Bishop completed her residency in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. She then pursued a fellowship in Pediatric Cleft and Craniofacial Surgery at Louisiana State University Health Science Center in Shreveport.
SERVING THE ORAL HEALTH NEEDS OF NORTHWEST LOUISIANA FOR OVER 30 YEARS DENTAL IMPLANTS BONE GRAFTING WISDOM TEETH FACIAL SURGERY JAW SURGERY
2120
PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY OF SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER DENTISTRY
AtPediatric Dentistry of ShreveportBossier, we want to change how children think about visiting the dentist. We’re not just transforming dental visits; we’re turning them into adventures! Because why shouldn’t a trip to the dentist be as fun as it is beneficial?!
WE THINK GOING TO THE DENTIST SHOULD BE FUN FOR EVERYONE!
Pediatric dental specialists Drs. Jason Gambill, and Corey Cloud are on a mission to make dental care exciting and enjoyable for kids. With six convenient locations in Shreveport, Bossier City, Natchitoches, Minden, Alexandria, and Ruston, healthy smiles are just a hop, skip, and jump away from fun-filled dental adventures!
PREPARING YOUR KIDS FOR A LIFETIME OF HEALTHY AND HAPPY SMILES ISN’T JUST OUR JOB, IT IS SOMETHING WE HAVE FUN DOING!
From tiny tots to college-bound teens, our team is geared up to cater to every smile with a blend of expertise and enthusiasm. Whether your child needs a routine check-up, specialized treatment, or emergency dental aid, Pediatric Dentistry of Shreveport-Bossier is equipped and prepared to assist your smile needs.
WE OFFER DENTAL CARE IN AN ENVIRONMENT WHERE IT IS OKAY TO BE A KID AND HAVING FUN IS ENCOURAGED!
The team at Pediatric Dentistry of Shreveport-Bossier encourages kids to have fun. We’re all about creating a dental wonderland where being a kid is celebrated and smiles (or giggles) are encouraged! Meet Twinkle, our very own Tooth Fairy, spreading joy and oral health wisdom wherever she goes. From classroom visits to community events, we’re all about making oral care a blast!
COME EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE!
Our doctors are excited to welcome you to our dental family and proud to be able to provide your children with the best dental care around! Dr. Jason Gambill and Dr. Corey Cloud, both certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, lead this group of dental specialists dedicated to excellence and continuous learning.
PREPARING FOR YOUR FIRST VISIT
You can make the first visit to the dentist enjoyable and positive for your child! Be sure your child is informed of the visit before they arrive. Tell them that the dentist and will explain all everything they do and answer any questions the child might have. Explain to them that the dentist is a fun, enjoyable place to visit, not a scary one.
You are welcomed and encouraged to accompany your child during the dental visit! We have found that having parents present through the entirety of the child’s visit helps keep the child calm and sooth the parent’s nerves as well. We do understand that some children may have heightened anxiety during their dental visits. For these young patients, we do offer relaxing agents to help minimize unnecessary stress.
IS YOUR CHILD READY TO EMBARK ON THEIR DENTAL JOURNEY?
Our doctors, along with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, strongly encourage parents to bring their young children in for their first visit by the child’s first birthday. These early visits help ensure your child’s smile is receiving the care it needs to grow and develop while allowing your kids to grow up with a “dental home”. They also help parents and children begin good oral hygiene habits
that set the stage for a lifetime of healthy habits and happy smiles.
PREPARING FOR YOUR FIRST VISIT
Let’s make your child’s first visit a memorable one! Talk to your kiddo about the fun-filled “adventure” awaiting them. Reassure them that our dental office is all about smiles, not worries. And parents, you’re the guide on this adventure! Your presence keeps the vibes calm and cool for your little one.
Parents should feel free to join the adventure and accompany their children throughout their dental visit! We get it— some kiddos might feel a bit jittery about their dental journey. But fear not! We’ve got special relaxing agents to minimize those nerves, ensuring a stress-free experience for your children.
INSURANCE OPTIONS
Pediatric Dentistry of ShreveportBossier is in-network with Aetna, Cigna, Delta, Humana, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana, United Concordia, Tricare, and Sunlife. We proudly support our troops by honoring military dental insurance.
So, why settle for ordinary dental visits when you can join us for an exciting smile adventure? Pediatric Dentistry of Shreveport-Bossier: where every visit is a journey worth smiling about!
4325 AIRLINE DRIVE BOSSIER CITY, LA 71111
940 KEYSER AVENUE NATCHITOCHES, LA 71457
2025 FARMERVILLE HWY RUSTON, LA 71270
6930 FERN AVENUE SUITE 200 SHREVEPORT, LA 71105
116 HOMER ROAD MINDEN, LA 71055
2235 MACARTHUR DR. UNIT B ALEXANDRIA, LA 71303
WWW.KIDSMILESRUS.COM
POSITIVE STEPS FERTILITY
FERTILITY
SPECIALISTS
Dr. John Preston “Pres” Parry is an internationally recognized fertility and surgical expert. He tripled majored at Cornell, did his graduate work at Columbia, and medical school at New York Medical College. This was followed by OB/ GYN residency at Tufts and reproductive endocrinology and infertility fellowship at the U. of Louisville. He has published in the New England Journal of Medicine, is President of the Society of Reproductive Surgeons, and is on the editorial board for Fertility and Sterility (the primary U.S. fertility medical journal). Finally, he has been involved in multiple patents and is the inventor of the “Parryscope® technique” for comprehensive single visit fertility testing.
WHAT IS THE TOP QUESTION FOR COUPLES WITH INFERTILITY?
“Will I get pregnant?” is clearly the number one question. If most women
under 35 have a 40% chance of being pregnant in three months with low-cost, low-tech solutions, there is a lot of hope. The key thing is making sure they have the right diagnosis, as I routinely see women who have blocked tubes, polyps, low egg counts, and other factors that have been missed, and they’ve been putting their energy and hope into the wrong things.
HOW CAN A WOMAN UNDERSTAND HER FERTILITY?
The Parryscope® technique is part of a broader approach, fusing ultrasound and office hysteroscopy to understand the ovaries, Fallopian tubes, and uterus in a single visit. It gives women accurate, gentle, fast, and safe care with immediate results that they want.
IS FERTILITY CARE AFFORDABLE?
Insurance often does a bait and switch with patients where they often have very
different expenses than what they think. We’re very upfront about our prices, where currently it is $150 for a consult, $75 for a semen analysis, and $1000 total for fertility testing for most women. Also, for oral medication, an ultrasound, and insemination, it is about $550 a month, and IVF (in vitro fertilization) is closer to $13-14,000 plus medications.
WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING PEOPLE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT YOUR PRACTICE?
Though capable and experienced, couples want to know how much you care before they care how much you know. We fuse excellence, empathy, and efficiency in a way that gets results. Finally, coming to Positive Steps Fertility is a lot like joining a family—we’re with you every step of the way and share in the tears and laughter. We can’t wait to help everyone have the children of their dreams!
9391 ELLERBE RD SHREVEPORT, LA 71106, SUITE C 318.408.0100
POSITIVESTEPSFERTILITY.COM
WK RADIATION ONCOLOGY SERVICES
ONCOLOGY
The Radiation Oncology Department at Willis Knighton is a recognized international leader in advanced technologies.
The department, which maintains dual accreditation, hosts the world’s first proton therapy unit of its kind and is the only proton therapy available in Louisiana. The Radiation Oncology Department will host the academic Particle Therapy Cooperative GroupNorth America (PTCOG-NA) meeting in 2025 following the 2024 meeting held in New York City.
-Each physician sub-specializes and provides personalized attentive services with the assistance of an excellent award – winning team.
WK Radiation Oncology welcomes visitors from around the United States and the world for training in Proton therapy, brachytherapy, and physics. Visitors are also learning from its groundbreaking nuclear oncology division which is advancing the field of radiopharmaceuticals.
As the radiation oncology leader in the surrounding region, the department serves as a tertiary referral center while still focusing on the individual battling malignancy.
(318) 212-4639 2600 KINGS HIGHWAY SHREVEPORT, LA 71103 WWW.WKHS.COM/CANCER
MICHAEL DURCI, MD, LANE R. ROSEN, MD, SANFORD R. KATZ, MD, C. JAKE WANG, MD, PHD. MELISSA CAMDEN, PA-C, JESSICA NASH, PA-C, HEIDI WIMBERLY, PA-C
DR. KENNETH SANDERS
FACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY
Sanders is known as the place to go for your face in our area; in fact, he is in the exclusive group of physicians known as the “Top 500” within Allergan - the makers of Botox and Juvéderm facial injectables. He has been an instructor for Allergan for many years and routinely travels to speak and teach other physicians and medical professionals about facial aesthetic treatments.
Dr. Sanders is a Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon who specializes in facial rejuvenation surgery (facelifting), rhinoplasty (nose shaping), hair restoration surgery, and all facial injectables. He has been in practice for 23 years and is an Associate Professor of LSU Health Shreveport for the training of the
Facial Plastic Surgeon Fellows.
He is most excited with the non-invasive and minimally invasive technologies he has available in his practice. Non-surgical fat removal on almost any part of the body with the CoolSculpting Elite device, his CoolSculpting specialist can help remove those trouble spots on women and men who desire a “no downtime” option. His Facetite, Bodytite, and Morpheus 8 devices offer minimally invasive skin tightening and fat sculpting to the jowl, neck, cheeks, and body areas such as the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks.
When it comes to surgical intervention for the aging face, Dr. Sanders’ unique techniques will achieve a natural
appearance. “Someone asking for facial rejuvenation surgery wants to look like a younger version of him or herself, not like a different person” states Sanders. Hair restoration is another love of Dr. Sanders. He is the only physician performing this procedure within a 200mile radius and his results rival those of any hair transplant surgeon anywhere. Dr. Sanders uses the micro-graft technique, producing a completely invisible end result without any “doll hair” or “corn rows” as is seen with older techniques.
8711 LINE AVE, SHREVEPORT, LA 71106 (318) 698-8711
DRKENNETHSANDERS.COM
SHREVEPORT EYE SPECIALISTS RUSSELL VAN NORMAN, M.D. RACHEL MEYER-BOREL, O.D. OPHTHALMOLOGY
Dr. Russ Van Norman first arrived in Shreveport in 1994 to begin his medical education. After graduating from medical school in 1998, he went on to complete his internship and ophthalmology residency at LSUHSC. Wanting to further his training, Dr. Van Norman embarked on a two-year fellowship in Cornea/External Disease and Refractive surgery at the University of Texas Southwestern. This extra education was critical in learning and implementing advanced techniques in corneal transplantation, cataract surgery, refractive procedures (LASIK), and also makes him the most highly trained corneal specialist in the area.
Upon completion of his fellowship and board certification in 2004, Dr. Van Norman returned to the Shreveport area and began his medical practice. To date, he has performed over 20,000 ophthalmic procedures including cataract removal, laser cataract surgery, premium IOL’s, LASIK, Advanced Surface Ablations, full thickness and partial thickness cornea transplants, and sophisticated anterior segment procedures. Dr. Van Norman also has an extensive glaucoma practice that includes performing laser glaucoma surgery and minimally invasive glaucoma procedures.
Dr. Rachel Meyer-Borel joined SES in July of 2017. She is board certified in optometry with a degree from Northeastern State University in Oklahoma. She brings fifteen years of ophthalmic experience to the practice and specializes in diabetic eye exams and hard to fit contacts. As Shreveport Eye Specialists enters it’s seventh year in business, they continue to be humbled by the continued support from their referring medical professionals, and their wonderful patient base. Everyone at Shreveport Eye Specialists is focused on giving their patients the highest ophthalmic care with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. They truly understand that the happy patient is the most important aspect of their growing practice. Come experience Shreveport Eye Specialists where Your Vision Is Our Focus.
8445 LINE AVENUE, SUITE 200 SHREVEPORT, LA 71106 318.703.5655
SHREVEPORTEYESPECIALISTS.COM
SHRINERS CHILDREN’S SHREVEPORT
PEDIATRIC ORTHOPEDICS, CLEFT LIP/PALATE, SPORTS MEDICINE
AtShriners Children’s Shreveport, our team of pediatric orthopedic, cleft lip/palate and sports medicine professionals offers outstanding medical care for kids, no matter how minor or complex the condition. We research, we innovate, we do whatever it takes to treat your child’s condition, while helping inspire kids to live a great life.
For over 100 years, Shriners Children’s Shreveport has provided specialized care to a global population of kids, regardless of a family’s ability to pay. Our world-class care is not limited to insurance networks, or to what’s been done before. The same doctors who innovate treatments for the most complicated orthopedic, sports and cleft lip/palate issues will help to ensure your child grows and develops properly.
Our pediatric orthopedic specialists are uniquely skilled to provide insight into both routine and complicated orthopedic conditions, from clubfoot and
intoeing issues to cerebral palsy and spine conditions. Minimally invasive methodologies such as our EOS low radiation imaging system and our Schroth Barcelona-based treatment for moderate scoliosis help protect our kids and reduce the need for surgeries.
Through our sports medicine specialty, physicians and other healthcare professionals provide healthy training, injury prevention and surgical/nonsurgical care for pediatric and adolescent sports injuries. From fractures and connective tissue issues to sprains and bruises, our specialists are trained to address the physiology of a developing child, helping kids safely and confidently return to the field.
Our cleft lip and palate program involves a multidisciplinary team of surgeons, care managers and therapists in providing education and care to children with cleft and other craniofacial conditions. Children receive comprehensive care from our
Cary Mielke, MD, Chief of Staff Pediatric Orthopedics
Patrick Powell, MD Pediatric Orthopedics
Ronald Lewis, MD Pediatric Orthopedics
Gerard Williams, Jr., MD Pediatric Orthopedics
Justin Kunes, MD Pediatric Orthopedics
Patrick Massey, MD Sports Medicine
Rachel Bishop, DDS, MD Oral and Maxillofacial
Jennifer Woerner, DMD, MD Oral and Maxillofacial
Anthony Sin, MD Neurosurgery/Spine
Christina Notarianni, MD Neurosurgery
Kurt Grozinger, MD Radiology
Thomas Pressly, MD Rheumatology
Sarwat Umer, MD Rheumatology
team of oral and maxillofacial specialists, who work closely with our families to foster and maximize the social, physical, and psychological development of our kids.
Leaders in research. Developers of advanced procedures. Innovators of modern orthopedic and cleft lip/palate care. Expertise and love, all directed into providing outstanding care for kids. Shriners Children’s Shreveport: The Most Amazing Care Anywhere.
TO SCHEDULE YOUR CHILD FOR AN APPOINTMENT AT SHRINERS CHILDREN’S SHREVEPORT, PLEASE CALL 318-226-3314.
Dr. Utter
Dr. Kerr
Dr. Wadhwa
Dr. Nunley
Dr. Campbell
COMPASSION • INNOVATION • EXCELLENCE
THE SPINE INSTITUTE & THE SPINE CENTER OF EXCELLENCE
Committed to a multidisciplinary approach to spine care.
Providing personalized treatment plans that improve a patient's quality of life.
Restoring function, with a strong emphasis on compassionate and respectful care.
BOSSIER: 411 COLEMAN AVE, STE 102 (318) 585-2000
SHREVEPORT: 1500 LINE AVE, STE 200 (318) 629-5555
STERLING DENTAL DENTISTRY
Dr. Geneux is a born-and-raised Shreveport native who graduated from Captain Shreve High School in 1998. For college, he attended Louisiana State University (LSU) in Baton Rouge, where he obtained his Bachelor of Science in Biology. In the year 2007, he continued his education and went on to graduate from the LSU School of Dentistry in New Orleans.
As a child, Dr. Geneux spent a lot of time in hospitals and was often in and out of cancer wards. From a very young age, he knew that the medical field would be his future. He craved connecting with people and improving the lives of others, and with dentistry, he was able to accomplish that. Since then, he has committed to excellence and continues strengthening his skills as a dentist, husband, and father.
When not in the office, Dr. Geneux loves spending time with his wife and four daughters. He also enjoys playing tennis, fishing, and cheering on his alma mater, the LSU Tigers.
At Sterling Dental Center, our mission is to provide a high level of convenience, comfort and customer service. We proudly offer dental care to patients of all ages, including children, adults, and seniors. From general dentistry to restorative dentistry and more, you can count on us to get the personalized dental care you need and deserve. Dr. Geneux provides Cosmetic, General, Restorative, and Sedation Dentistry. Some of the cosmetic dentistry services are veneers, teeth whitening, and Invisalign.
Patients without dental insurance can join our membership club and take care of preventative care with a monthly subscription, all while saving money. There are three membership packages to choose from.
Learn how we can provide exceptional dental care for you and your family. Schedule your consultation by calling today.
Dr. Irina Simrell graduated summa cum laude with a B.S. from the University of Texas in Arlington. She received her dental degree from Texas A & Am College of Dentistry in Dallas, Texas and is an active member of the American Dental Association, Louisiana Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry.
Dr. Simrell enjoys volunteering in the events that provide dental care for those with limited resources, including veterans.
Outside of work, she loves spending time with her family, as well as hiking, camping, and ice-skating.
BRYAN VEKOVIUS, M.D.
OCULOPLASTIC SURGERY / NEURO-OPHTHALMOLOGY
One of the great rewards in practicing medicine for Dr. Bryan Vekovius is helping patients feel better and look better. It’s an added bonus for patients with vision problems who receive treatment. In addition, they love what they see when they look in the mirror.
An experienced oculoplastic surgeon who has performed over 20,000 eyelid procedures, Dr. Vekovius is an expert in aesthetics and the treatment of diseases and syndromes involving the eye and eyelid, tearing system and the optic nerve. He is an expert in blepharoplasty, a surgery which reduces bagginess and droopiness in the eyelids, which can be to improve appearance but also vision. Excess skin on the upper eyelid, for example, can cause peripheral vision loss. He performs dozens of these surgeries each week, helping all types of patients, even those who have lost muscle function in the eyelid.
“I strive each day to be a physician who is committed to quality, compassionate care, superior patient satisfaction, and
excellence in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery,” he said.
Dr. Vekovius is one of the few cosmetic surgeons in the region who is a member of the American Board of Ophthalmology. He is recognized as a leader in Oculoplastic Surgery and Neuro-Ophthalmology and has performed thousands of procedures for problems like tearing disorders, including dry eye syndrome. Dr. Vekovius is also an expert in skin cancer excision and reconstruction, as he continues to perform several surgeries each month removing cancers from the eyelids and face.
Dr. Vekovius completed his ophthalmology training at LSU in Shreveport in 2001. He then underwent fellowship training in oculoplastic surgery, specializing in techniques of plastic surgery as it relates to the eyes and their surrounding structures such as eyelid repairs, browlifts, tear duct surgery, and treatment of thyroid eye disease. Trained by Dr. Thomas C. Spoor, he also learned the art of laser skin resurfacing and treatment of facial
veins and blemishes as well as use of Botox and Dysport and fillers such as Restylane, Radiesse, and Belotero. He then completed further training in Neuro-Ophthalmology, the subspecialty of Ophthalmology which encompasses the optic nerve, the nerves which control eye movement, and the brain.
Dr. Vekovius has become one of northwest Louisiana’s premier physicians, drawing patients from the Shreveport-Bossier City area, as well as from other areas of Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas, Mississippi and Oklahoma. The office is conveniently located in Southeast Shreveport in the Ashley Ridge Business Park. His contributions in the fields of Oculoplastic surgery and Neuro-Ophthalmology have changed the lives of many patients by enhancing their features, rejuvenating their appearance, boosting their selfesteem and improving their vision. Born in Baton Rouge, Dr. Vekovius was raised in Shreveport. He and his wife, Stephanie, have three children: William, Samuel and Sophia.
DENTISTRY
BASINGER FAMILY DENTISTRY
Dr. Brian Basinger has been providing superior cosmetic family dental care to our community since 1996. He strives to provide state of the art dentistry in a friendly and relaxed environment focusing on building relationships with his patients. Using the latest technology, Dr. Basinger believes restoring beautiful smiles is now easier and more comfortable than ever.
Want to change your smile? Dr. Basinger and his team can certainly help with that! A smile makeover may include anything from bonding and whitening to crowns and veneers. Need to replace a missing tooth or teeth? Dental implant restorations may be for you.
As the official team dentist for the Shreveport Mudbugs hockey team, Dr. Basinger has seen all these situations and then some. He strives to be active in the community through church, volunteer organizations like the Hub and Purchased, Faith & Fostering, Louisiana Mission of Mercy and Donated Dental. In 2019 he received the Integrity Award from the Better Business Bureau. Since 2016 he has been elected by his peers as the delegate from NWLA to the national ADA meeting and has been the editor of the LDA Journal since 2020.
A native of Shreveport, Dr. Basinger is a LA Tech alum and received his DDS degree from LSUSD. He and his wife of 33 years, Heather, have three sons. Dr. Basinger and his friendly, caring staff are welcoming new patients and are devoted to ensuring your dental experience is comfortable and personalized.
818 PIERREMONT ROAD SHREVEPORT, LA 71106
318.869.3020
WWW.BASINGERDENTAL.COM
MICIOTTO FAMILY DENTISTRY
CYNTHIA M. MICIOTTO, DDS, CAROLINE R. COBB, DDS
Apatient centered, family based dental practice is what Dr. Cynthia Miciotto envisioned when she opened her own practice in Bossier City in 1984. This has become not just a passion, but a way of life for those at Miciotto Family Dentistry as her daughter, Dr. Caroline Cobb, joined her in private practice in 2017. Dr Caroline is honored to continue this tradition and to serve the Shreveport- Bossier community like her mother did for 40 years.
Dr. Caroline was born and raised in the Shreveport-Bossier area. She attended Louisiana Tech University, graduating in 2009 with her Bachelors in Science with concentrations in Biology and Chemistry. She went on to attend LSU School of Dentistry,
graduating in 2014. She completed a one year advanced education residency at the University of Alabama-Birmingham VA Hospital. After residency, she practiced in the New Orleans area for two years before returning home to join her mother. Dr. Caroline is a member of the American Dental Association, Louisiana Dental Association, and Northwest Louisiana Dental Association.
Outside of the office, Dr. Caroline enjoys traveling, attending LSU and Saints games and spending time with her two rescue dogs, Tchoup and Roux. She is also a member of the Board of Directors at Holy Angels Residential Facility in Shreveport where she enjoys volunteering in her free time. Dr. Cindy and Dr. Caroline attribute their personal and professional success to their dedicated employees, loyal patients, and the love and support of their family and friends.
2158 AIRLINE DRIVE, BOSSIER CITY, LA 71111 • 318-747-1690
JASON DUPREE, D.D.S.
GENERAL DENTISTRY / DENTAL SLEEP MEDICINE
ALouisiana native, Dr. Jason Dupree is committed to providing the best dental care for his patients. His goal is to meet and exceed expectations with professional skill, integrity, respect, and communication with life-changing results, focusing on the patient’s overall health as well as dental health.
Dr. Dupree graduated from the LSU School of Dentistry in New Orleans, where he also completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency. He has numerous professional awards including the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Sleep Medicine, and International College of Oral Implantologist. He is heavily involved in volunteer and church functions.
Dr. Dupree opened the practice in 1996. He and his staff at Dupree Family Dental strive to make dentistry as relaxing and fun as possible. They stay current on the latest advantages in research and treatment, with emphasis on cosmetics, implants, and sleep apnea appliances, so you get the most advanced care possible.
Dr. Dupree has the latest state of the art equipment to help treat patients with Sleep Apnea who can not tolerate their CPAP. Approximately 4 out of 10 CPAP patients do not use their CPAP Machine, therefore, they aren’t treating their Obstructive Sleep Apnea. We Can Help. The appliance is covered by most medical insurance companies, including Medicare. We look forward to helping you get a good nights sleep. Call today for a free consultation. Dr. Jason Dupree and his staff enjoy saying they are SAVING LIVES AND MARRIAGES!
SCRUGGS DENTAL
DENTAL
DR. JEFFREY SCRUGGS
Dr. Jeffrey Scruggs has been practicing general dentistry in Shreveport for 30 years. He attended LSUS for his undergraduate degree in Biology, and he received his DDS from LSU School of Dentistry in New Orleans. Dr. Scruggs trained in implant surgery at the HandsOnTraining Institute in New Jersey, and he has practiced the diagnosis and placement of implants for many years.
Over the course of three decades, Dr. Scruggs has had the privilege of building lasting relationships with generations of local families. Patients consistently praise him for a kind, reassuring manner, and for taking the time to listen to their concerns and clearly explain all treatment options. One of his proudest moments was when his daughter, Dr. Rae Scruggs, joined the practice as an associate dentist in 2021. The father daughter duo practice with a profound dedication to patient comfort and satisfaction.
In his free time, Dr. Scruggs enjoys spending time with his family. He has four children and two grandchildren. He also enjoys competing in cycling and golf.
When you visit Saimah Talukder, MD, FACOG, MRCOG, at WK Gyn Concepts you can expect all-encompassing, personalized, and empathetic care from adolescence to menopause and beyond. Dr. Talukder takes an integrated approach to gynecological care identifying and addressing the root cause of your problems, including menstrual disorders, PCOS, infertility, vulvar conditions, recurrent vaginal discharge, STD prevention, female sexual dysfunction, menopausal syndrome and managing hormone therapy and abnormal pap smears, as well as weight management. At WK Gyn Concepts, Dr. Talukder limits the number of ladies she sees in a day, treating you like her one and only patient.
The clinic’s décor and appointment design create a calming and positive atmosphere allowing significant time with Dr. Talukder to create custom plans for your overall health and well-being. Dr. Talukder strives to make you as comfortable visiting her as you do your favorite spa or boutique.
Care You Prefer
In addition to love, the gift of health is one of the most valuable and long-lasting gifts a parent can give a child.
If you are looking for a pediatrician to advise you about your child’s health, Willis Knighton Preferred Pediatrics is a great choice. Three experienced physicians, all of them kind and understanding, give young patients (and their parents) the latest advice about health and wellness issues. Whether you’re an expectant mother, a newcomer to town or simply want a fresh approach to pediatric care, you can count on this clinic.
Dr. Randall White, Dr. Elise Edwards and Dr. Sarah Rainwater, board-certified pediatricians, are ready to partner with you, keeping your child well into the future. The clinic is conveniently located at Willis Knighton Bossier. Check out the doctors’ video profiles at Find a Doctor at wkhs.com, then call for an appointment.
Saimah Talukder MD, FACOG, MRCOG
Elise Edwards, MD, FAAP; Randall White, Jr. MD, FAAP Sarah Rainwater, MD
OTOLARYNGOLOGY
“The Ear, Nose & Throat Center provides specialized care in Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, Audiology and hearing aids, and maintain a full-service Allergy testing and treatment clinic. We provide care to patients of all ages, both children and adults.”
(318) 226-9441
8575 FERN AVE #103, SHREVEPORT, LA 71105 AND 2121 LINE AVE, SHREVEPORT, LA 71104
ENTCENTER.MD
YOUR TRUSTED MEDICAL CONTRACTOR FOR OVER FOUR DECADES
This year, we proudly celebrate 45 years of excellence in medical construction. Our journey has been nothing short of remarkable, and our team takes immense pride in the role we’ve played in shaping the local healthcare landscape.
Over the years, we have honed our expertise in a wide range of services, from constructing and renovating medical office buildings to specialized areas like NICUs, PICUs, and surgical units. We have witnessed firsthand the transformation of healthcare spaces, as Hand Construction has partnered with major local hospitals such as Ochsner LSU Health System and Christus. Each project reaffirms our commitment to quality, efficiency, and innovation.
holiday PREP
The Official A-Z (and Then Some) Guide to Surviving a Massive Family Holiday Celebration
So, you’ve been tapped to host the annual family holiday celebration. It’s never too soon to get the ball rolling. First, take a deep breath. Second, hide the breakable things. Third, accept that your home will, for a brief and shining moment, become a sentient whirlwind of noise, judgment, and poorly chosen sweaters. The following is not a checklist; it's a battle plan. A comical, slightly desperate outline to help you prepare for the impending holiday tornado. Something akin to Chevy Chase’s Christmas Vacation without the S.W.A.T. Team. (Hopefully)
Phase I: The PreGame (T-Minus 4 Weeks)
This is the planning stage, where you are filled with optimism, Pinterest boards, and the naive belief that everything will be "just fine."
1. Securing the Guest List (A.K.A. The Grand Inquisition)
•Start by creating a master list but leave a buffer zone of at least ten additional names. You will need it. This is where you confirm who is coming, who is bringing their new "life partner," and who has suddenly decided to bring their five children and a dog named "Rampage."
•The Sibling Tally: Be prepared for your siblings to confirm their attendance at the last minute with a simple text: "we'll be there," followed by a question about whether you have a spare inflatable mattress.
•The Out-of-Town Cousins: They will arrive two days early, unannounced, expecting a full
itinerary and a complimentary airport pickup. They will also bring a Tupperware container of something they claim is "Grandma’s secret recipe," which smells vaguely like vinegar and regret.
2. Menu Planning: The Great Culinary Compromise
•Gather all the conflicting dietary needs and allergies. Gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, fun-free. Your menu will look less like a feast and more like a United Nations peace treaty.
•The Family Potluck Conundrum: You’ll try to coordinate who brings what, but it will inevitably result in five identical green bean casseroles and no one bringing a dessert. One of the casseroles will have raisins in it. Yuck! Noone likes the raisin casserole.
•Assigning Key Dishes: Strategically assign the most difficult dish (like the turkey) to the relative who is least likely to actually cook it. This way, you can swoop in and save the day— and have an excuse to complain
about it later.
•The Backup Pizza Plan: Just in case the turkey is dry, the casseroles are inedible, and the dessert is a no-show, have a local pizza place on speed dial. Do not, under any circumstances, tell anyone about the pizza plan.
3. The Strategic Decluttering (and Hiding of Evidence)
•This isn’t about cleaning; it’s about creating the illusion of a clean home. Shove everything into closets. Nobody will open them. (Probably.)
•The Living Room Landmine: Remove anything sentimental or breakable from the living room. This includes your favorite vase, that expensive statue, and all evidence of your personal hobbies.
•The Bathroom Brigade: Buy an obscene amount of toilet paper. Your guests will use more than you think is humanly possible. Invest in some high-end hand soap to make up for the fact that you haven't cleaned the grout since last year's holiday celebration.
Phase II: The MidGame (T-Minus 2 Weeks)
The wishful thinking phase is over. The true panic has begun.
1. The Grocery Store Scramble: A Military Operation
•Don't go on a weekend. Don't go after work. Go at 6 AM on a Tuesday. Wear comfortable shoes and a serious expression.
•The List is a Lie: Your meticulously planned grocery list will be rendered useless by out-of-stock items, last-minute additions from your spouse, and your own spontaneous decision to buy three different types of cranberry sauce "just in case."
•The Check-Out Showdown: The checkout line will be filled with other harried hosts. Make eye contact and nod gravely. You are comrades in arms. You are both about to enter the holiday gauntlet.
2. The Great House Transformation
•Start with a deep clean. This is your last chance to see the true color of your carpets.
•The Decorating Debacle: Pull out the boxes of holiday decorations from the attic. You will find that half the lights are broken, the fake snow looks like a biohazard, and the glitter has somehow managed to multiply and spread to every surface of your home.
•The Unboxing of Relics: You will unearth family heirlooms that look like they belong in a museum of ancient horrors. Place them on a high shelf so they can’t be easily knocked over by a running child. You’ll want to keep them heirlooms for years to come.
Phase III: The Crunch
Time (T-Minus 1 Week to D-Day)
This is the point of no return. You are a human embodiment of chaos and caffeine.
1. The Cooking Marathon (The Kitchen is a War Zone)
•Start with anything that can be made ahead of time. Mashed potatoes? Nope, make them last minute for maximum stress.
•The Recipe Revolution: You will find that the recipe you've used for years suddenly makes no sense. The instructions are vague, the measurements are wrong, and you've somehow used all the flour for something that was supposed to be a side dish.
•The Inevitable Burnt Offering: Something will burn. It could be the rolls, the gravy, or your will to live. Embrace it. It adds character to the meal.
2. The Gift-Wrapping Rage
•Buy more wrapping paper than you think you need. You will run out and be forced to improvise with newspaper and old grocery bags.
•The Tape is a Thief: The tape will disappear. It will be there one second, and the next, it will be gone. This is a cruel holiday mystery that has yet to be solved.
•The Ribbon Rebellion: Do not, under any circumstances, attempt to tie a perfect bow. It will end in frustration, a tangled mess, and a silent promise to never buy ribbon again.
Phase IV: Game Day
(The Glorious, Terrifying Holiday Itself)
The moment of truth.
1. The Arrival of the Troops
•The first person will arrive an hour early. They will be your over-eager Aunt Linda, who will ask if you need any help, then proceed to rearrange your kitchen utensils.
•The Grand Entrance: The rest of the family will arrive in a single, noisy wave, carrying their respective Tupperware containers. Greet everyone with a forced smile and a silent prayer for patience.
2.
The Food Reveal and Critical Review
•Place the spread on the table. It is beautiful. It is perfect. For a brief moment, you feel like a triumphant holiday goddess.
•The Unsolicited Commentary: Your Uncle Gary will immediately ask why there's no green bean casserole with raisins this year. Aunt Susan will squint at the turkey and ask if you remembered to baste it "properly."
•The Food Coma: The meal will be a success. Everyone will
eat too much and pass out in a collective food coma. This is your chance to escape to a quiet room and reflect on your life choices.
3. The Awkward Conversation Gauntlet
•Be prepared to answer questions about your love life, your job, and why you don't have kids yet. Practice saying, "I'm
just so full from dinner!" with a big, fake smile.
•The Great Debate: Someone will bring up politics.
Immediately change the subject to something neutral, like the weather or the new season of a popular TV show. If that fails, feign a sudden, uncontrollable need to check on the desserts.
Phase V: The PostGame
You made it. You survived.
1. The Farewell Tour: Watch your guests leave, taking with them the majority of your leftovers and the last shred of your sanity.
2. The Great Clean-Up: Stare at the mountain of dirty dishes and the glitter-covered floors. You will consider leaving it all there until next year.
3. The Quiet Calm: After everyone is gone, you can finally sit in silence. You are a champion. You are a survivor. Now, go eat the leftover pie in your pajamas. You've earned it.
angle, less directly, and shines brightest on leaves and strolls and football.
Autumn is candlelight. Summer’s a torch.
Big “torch guy” here. Usually for me, the best thing about the first weeks of autumn is the promise that summer is just one full-term pregnancy away.
Yes!
But summer in ShreveportBossier can be humbling. Near heatstroke. Foot blister. Sunburn.
The summertime trifecta made it a long one in this bureau.
Question for you: Does the heat “get to you” more as you get older? Today’s me would
what it’s like to be a camel, only I’m thirsty all the time. My kingdom for a hump!”
Whatever they’re paying camels these days, it ain’t enough.
That summer and the one we just sweat-dripped out way through shared some seriously sizzling days.
The sun deserves a good rest after that.
Don’t wait on us, Mr. Slanting Sun: we’re ready for the new slant of light, ready to appreciate autumn for being autumn, ready to appreciate the season, and not just because it’s football season. (Not that there’s anything wrong with that: for tens of thousands of us around here, autumn means the colors change all
By Teddy Allen
Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu
I’m going to try to appreciate autumn more for all the following reasons:
Leaves, just sort of in general; can’t have fall without them falling. But also…
The colors of leaves. I miss at this time of year a sweet gum tree I used to have. I knew I was getting older when I got mad if it didn’t really turn on the redyellow-orange juice by October… Other people raking leaves –unless a little kid is going to play in them. Then I’ll rake. It’s worth it…
There’s something about an old sweatshirt…
The possibility that you and me might, just maybe, possibly, have the green thumb guts to plant petunias and pansies, some marigolds, a copper plant, or even an ornamental pepper to spice up the joint …
The moisture of the morning on your skin, and it’s dew instead of
The spot on your shirt and it’s crab dip instead of sweat, because autumn is first about the colors but second about the food. Homemade pie. Cider. Tailgate or holiday feast, autumn is the best eating season of the year and it’s not even close…
Halloween. I love a kid dressed as a pumpkin and all you can see is their face poking out under the little hat with the green stem on it…
Hugging, which is the poor man’s snuggling, and Snuggling, which is the next stop for the couple who wish to promote from Advanced Hugging, or “Huggling.” It has been pointed out to me that this is a good and underrated thing, one of the best things under the sun…
So I wish for you some snuggles or even huggles in an old sweatshirt after eating as somebody rakes the leaves around your blooming flowers while you watch football. Or the World Series. Autumnal
