HW 80th June

d-mars.com June 2026 | 1

FREE

June 2026

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Inspire, Inform & Educate

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80th Edition

Where Healing Meets Purpose

BetterDaysChiropractic.com 2600 South Loop West #620 Houston, TX, 77054 713.661.7246 779 Normandy St #118 Houston, TX, 77015 713.451.6344

Dr. Lawson Earl Howard, Jr.

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Owner & Lead Chiropractor

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INSIDE

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Understanding Stroke - Risk Factors, Early Signs, and Life After

The Importance of Enhanced Detection in Bladder Cancer Care

Follow Safeguards to Ensure Your Medications are Safe and Effective

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2 | June 2026

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Where Healing Meets Purpose You should Never be in Pain NEW PATIENT SPECIAL:

Free Evaluation & 10-minute chair massage

BetterDaysChiropractic.com 2600 South Loop West #620 Houston, TX, 77054 713.661.7246 779 Normandy St #118 Houston, TX, 77015 713.451.6344

Dr. Lawson Earl Howard, Jr. Owner & Lead Chiropractor

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RISK FACTORS, EARLY SIGNS, AND LIFE AFTER

By Shonda Caradine News Provider stroke is caused by an interruption of blood flow to the brain, often resulting in impaired mobility, permanent loss of speech or vision, or even death, according to Bayer. One in four people will have a stroke in their lifetime, according to the World Stroke Organization, yet many don’t know the risk factors or understand the path to recovery (Feigin et al., 2025).

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Dr. Sara Hegab, vice president, Stroke & Thrombosis, Specialty and Pipeline, U.S. Medical Affairs at Bayer, is sharing stroke facts that everyone should know.

WHAT LIFESTYLE CHANGES REDUCE STROKE RISK? There are five general lifestyle changes you can focus on to help reduce your risk for having a stroke: • Incorporate basic exercise into your daily routine.

WHAT LINGERING SYMPTOMS ARE NORMAL AFTER A STROKE? Because the brain is such a complex organ, not every stroke affects every person the same way. However, it’s normal to experience fatigue, vision problems, and difficulties with balance, coordination, or general movement. Be patient with yourself if you find it hard to remember, recognize, and process information the way you did before the stroke. Talk to family, friends, or doctors about your anxieties or fears. It’s important to be seen and heard, and to know that you’re not alone.

CAN YOU FULLY RECOVER FROM A STROKE? Full recovery from a stroke is possible for some, but many patients will continue to experience minor impairments or lifelong disabilities.

Depending on the severity of the stroke, recovery may take weeks, months, or even years, but tends to be most rapid in the first three months after the event, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Rehabilitation with speech, physical, and occupational therapists may help your brain and body more quickly “relearn” the skills you can lose after a stroke.

HOW CAN A CAREGIVER SUPPORT SOMEONE RECOVERING FROM A STROKE?

• Control cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Talk with your doctor about any medicines or lifestyle changes you may need to help you with this.

• Avoid smoking, which greatly increases stroke and cardiovascular disease in general.

• Maintain a healthy weight.

• Pay attention to nutrition.

A healthy, balanced diet helps ensure you’re getting vital vitamins and nutrients and helps control other risk factors.

WHAT ARE THE WARNING SIGNS OF A STROKE? According to Bayer, the most common warning signs of stroke are weakness in the face, arm or leg, particularly on one side of the body; trouble speaking; vision problems out of one or both eyes; severe headache; and dizziness or loss of balance and coordination. Rapid medical treatment is vital.

Patients and care partners should know the “FAST” signs (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech slurring, and Time to call 911) to recognize if someone might be having a stroke.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER EXPERIENCING A STROKE? No two strokes are the same. Some survivors experience minor short-term effects. For others, it’s a life-altering event with long-term disability and complications, impacting everyday things we sometimes take for granted, like speech, balance, and coordination.

Recovery is a process addressing a combination of the physical effects (like weakness, stiffness, and numbness), cognitive effects (challenges recognizing, remembering, and processing information), and emotional effects (like anxiety, sadness, anger, and frustration), according to Bayer.

In addition to medication, your doctor may recommend gentle rehabilitation exercises and structured rehab programs, either in a hospital, inpatient facility, or at home, which may include physical therapy to rebuild strength and mobility, occupational therapy to support daily activities, and speech therapy if communication or swallowing is affected. Patient support networks can also be crucial for mental well-being and recovery.

Behind every survivor is someone who helps lighten their burden.

Caregivers should be patient with anyone adjusting to life after stroke. Celebrate their small victories, listen to their fears and anxieties, and help them conduct research and explore support groups if desired. If possible, accompany them to doctor appointments. Patient empowerment through education, making lifestyle changes, speaking up, and shared decision-making with their healthcare team can help shape their road to recovery.

Being a care partner can be a demanding role, so take breaks, lean on family and friends for help, consider joining a care partner support group, and maintain your own health through nutrition, exercise, and rest.

WHAT INCREASES MY RISK OF ANOTHER STROKE? In addition to lifestyle factors, people who have already experienced a stroke face a high risk of a second event (Feigin et al., 2023). It is estimated that 20-30% of the 12 million people who experience a stroke worldwide each year will have a recurrent stroke, with one in five survivors suffering another within five years (Feigin & Owolabi, 2023; Kolmos et al., 2021). That’s why it’s crucial to remain under a doctor’s supervision, to take any medications as prescribed, and to adopt healthy habits.

HOW DO I PREVENT ANOTHER STROKE? Research shows that 80% of recurrent, clot-related (ischemic) strokes can be prevented (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), and a second stroke is often more disabling than the first (Feigin et al., 2023). Work with your health care team to address the underlying factors that led to your stroke. Bring a list of questions to your doctor appointments and help create a tailored prevention plan. This may include medicine or procedures or lifestyle changes. Be sure to take your medicine as directed and follow your doctor’s instructions.

To learn more about stroke, visit https://www.stroke.org/. By understanding stroke, you can reduce your risk and better navigate recovery.

SOURCE: StatePoint

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Better Days

Chiropractic Clinic

Where Healing Meets Purpose

By Risha Palmer News Provider

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t Better Days Chiropractic, care goes beyond the adjustment table—it’s about restoring lives, strengthening communities, and creating pathways to something greater. Founded

by Dr. Lawson Howard, the practice was built on a simple but powerful belief: everyone deserves access to real healing—physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Dr. Howard’s journey is rooted in lived experience. Raised in Houston’s Fifth Ward and South Park communities, he saw firsthand the cycles that hold people back—injury, limitation, and reliance on temporary solutions. He chose a different path. Not just to become a chiropractor, but to become a force for change. His approach rejects quick fixes and embraces whole-person healing—addressing the body, the mind, and the habits that shape long-term health.

Better Days Chiropractic has become a trusted destination for athletes, families, and accident victims seeking more than relief—they come for restoration. Through a comprehensive approach that includes chiropractic care, rehabilitation, performance therapy, and lifestyle guidance, patients are equipped not only to recover but to thrive. Because here, healing is not reactive—it’s intentional and preventative.

That mission is strengthened through the partnership between Dr. Lawson Howard and Dr. Joseph Blazio III—a collaboration rooted in mentorship, shared values, and a commitment to lasting impact.

Under Dr. Howard’s guidance, Dr. Blazio developed a strong foundation in sports therapy and injury rehabilitation, gaining extensive knowledge of the musculoskeletal system and its role in total-body health.

Today, he brings that expertise into practice, specializing in sports-related injuries and motor vehicle accident recovery with a hands-on, personalized approach that reflects the core philosophy of Better Days.

Together, they represent both legacy and leadership—developing not only effective treatment plans, but a model for what community-centered healthcare should look like. What truly separates Better Days Chiropractic is its community-first, all-hands-on-deck culture. Every member of the team plays a role in helping patients and student athletes recover, grow, and succeed both on and off the field.

A vital part of that mission is Mr. O’Neal, the practice’s longtime chiropractic assistant. With experience as a former Prairie View A&M athletic trainer and an intern with the NFL’s Denver Broncos organization, he brings valuable knowledge in sports performance, rehabilitation, and athlete care. More than a

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

generation of chiropractors as an Intern Director for Prairie View A&M University, Sam Houston State University, and Texas Chiropractic College.

On the field and on the sidelines, Better Days Chiropractic is a trusted name in elite athletics. Dr. Howard currently serves as team chiropractor for Prairie View A&M University—reigning SWAC champions—as well as nationally recognized powerhouse North Shore High School and C.E. King High School, with past service to Southern University. In one of the most competitive healthcare environments in the country, their work stands apart— not because of marketing, but because of results. Championship programs require consistency, resilience, and availability—and Better Days delivers all three.

YET THE GREATEST IMPACT HAPPENS BEYOND THE SPOTLIGHT. Whether guiding injured athletes through recovery or mentoring youth through life decisions, both doctors are committed to developing people—not just treating patients. Conversations about discipline, education, purpose, and life after sports are just as important as physical healing. staff member, Mr. O’Neal represents the heart of Better Days—showing up daily to support recovery, encourage athletes, and help create a championship-level standard of care rooted in service, consistency, and community impact.

Dr. Blazio’s experience spans a wide range of athletic programs, having served as a team chiropractor for C.E. King Football and Basketball, Houston Energy Women’s Football, Detroit Prowl Women’s Football, Southern University Jaguars Football, Thurgood Marshall Track, Atascocita Track, and Summer League Kickball. His continued work with athletes reinforces the practice’s reputation for keeping competitors healthy, resilient, and ready to perform.

Meanwhile, Dr. Howard serves at the highest levels of leadership and influence in his field, including the Texas Chiropractic College Board of Regents, District 11 Director for the Texas Chiropractic Association, and Central Regional Director for the American Black Chiropractic Association. He also mentors the next

That same commitment carries into the community.

As President of Southeast Little League Baseball and President of the Omega Nu Phi Educational Center (ONPEC), Dr. Howard continues to invest in youth development and opportunity. As a former Vice Basileus of the Nu Phi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., service and leadership remain central to his calling.

BETTER DAYS CHIROPRACTIC IS MORE THAN A PRACTICE— IT’S A MOVEMENT. A movement built on faith, mentorship, excellence, and the belief that real healing creates real change.

Looking ahead, the vision is clear: expand the reach, deepen the impact, and continue building a model of care that transforms lives. With leaders like Dr. Howard and Dr. Blazio working side by side, Better Days Chiropractic is not just serving patients—it’s shaping the future of community health.

To help people heal.

To help people grow.

To help people experience their better days.

You should Never be in Pain!

BetterDaysChiropractic.com 2600 South Loop West #620 Houston, TX, 77054 713.661.7246 779 Normandy St #118 Houston, TX, 77015 713.451.6344 Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

The Importance of Enhanced Detection in Bladder Cancer Care approach, involves administering an imaging agent prior to the procedure. During cystoscopy, the bladder is viewed under both white and blue light. The imaging agent makes unhealthy tissue glow pink in blue light, which highlights areas for closer evaluation.

By d-mars.com News Provider

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ord is spreading about the importance of enhanced detection in the management of bladder cancer.

In a widely aired segment of “Viewpoint with Dennis Quaid,” patients shared their experiences navigating bladder cancer care and the importance of understanding enhanced detection through approaches like Blue Light Cystoscopy (BLC).

People diagnosed with bladder cancer often undergo scans and procedures that allow doctors to look inside the bladder and assess areas of concern. These evaluations are an important part of how clinicians gather information about a patient’s condition. In short, accurately seeing what’s happening inside the bladder can offer urologic-oncologists additional information during the procedure.

Cystoscopy is a procedure that allows urologists to examine the inside of the bladder using a thin tube with a camera. It is commonly used during initial diagnosis, follow-up evaluations and Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor (TURBT) procedures. Traditionally, cystoscopy is performed using standard white light to illuminate the bladder, but there are limitations on what it can make visible. That’s because the bladder lining can contain suspicious areas that are subtle or difficult to distinguish from surrounding tissue, and some abnormalities may be flat or less visible under standard lighting.

For this reason, clinicians may consider enhanced imaging techniques to supplement standard cystoscopy and support a more detailed examination. BLC, an enhanced imaging

BLC is recommended in clinical guidelines, if available, however decisions about when to use this approach, and other enhanced imaging techniques, are individualized based on patient needs and the physician’s judgment.

In the televised segment, patients described the experience of the BLC procedure and noted how it can help with the uncertainty that can come with bladder cancer. To watch the short segment and hear what the patients and urologic-oncologist say in their own words, visit https://rebrand.ly/SP-Viewpoint-Segment.

For all those living with bladder cancer or suspected bladder cancer, open communication with their care team about diagnostic procedures can help them better understand their options and feel more prepared. Patients can ask their doctor:

“What types of cystoscopy are available?”

“How do you decide which approach to use?”

“Would enhanced imaging be appropriate in my situation?”

Detection is a critical part of bladder cancer evaluation and care, and improved visibility can provide clinicians with additional information when assessing areas of concern during procedures. Patients should feel empowered to speak with their healthcare team about available options and what may be appropriate for their situation.

To find facilities that offer BLC near you, visit https://rebrand.ly/SP-FindBLC. SOURCE: STATEPOINT

Follow Safeguards to Ensure Your Medications are Safe and Effective NEGLECTING NEEDED PRESCRIPTIONS

By d-mars.com News Provider any people live longer and with better quality today because of the medications they take. But medications can also be dangerous if not taken correctly. That’s especially true for older adults, according to experts.

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Grant Tarbox, a senior executive medical director at HealthSpring, said the following are some issues older adults could face with their medications, along with some important safeguards.

ADVERSE DRUG INTERACTIONS According to research published in JAMA Internal Medicine, about four out of every 10 older adults take five or more medications, which has tripled from two decades ago.

Two of every 10 seniors take 10 or more prescription drugs.

Taking so many prescriptions can lead to adverse drug reactions or even unintentional overdose.

• Safeguard: Meet with a doctor or pharmacist to ensure all your prescriptions are clinically necessary. When reviewing your medicines, make sure to include any over-the-counter medications or herbal supplements you’re taking.

When you take multiple medications, tracking them all can be difficult. Your doctor has prescribed your drugs for a reason and it’s important to take them as prescribed, particularly maintenance medications, such as blood pressure or cholesterol drugs.

• Safeguard: If you are having trouble remembering to take your prescriptions, a pill box or digital reminder could help. If cost is an issue, there are prescription drug plans and patient assistance programs available to help.

TAKING POTENTIALLY RISKY DRUGS As you get older, your body may process medications differently. As a result, some drug classes, such as benzodiazepines, certain antidepressants and some NSAIDs, may pose risks that outweigh their benefits. One potential risk, for instance, is the risk of a dangerous fall.

• Safeguard: Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about identifying appropriate prescriptions for you, given your age. Options could include a lower dosage or shorter prescription duration. Of course, it’s also always a good idea to fall-proof your home.

NAVIGATING CHANGING CARE SETTINGS Adverse drug events often occur following hospitalization.

Many of these events could be avoided.

• Safeguard: Always meet with your doctor or phar-

macist shortly after a hospital discharge to conduct a “medication reconciliation” in which any newly prescribed medications are reconciled with existing prescriptions. This will help prevent medication errors, such as omissions, duplications, dosing errors or drug interactions.

A FINAL NOTE Even if you have a trusted physician leading your care team, it’s important to educate yourself. If you don’t understand your medication regimen, ask questions. If you are having side effects, tell your doctor about them. Also, bring a friend or family member to your appointments to help you remember key instructions.

“We are fortunate to live in a time when we have a multitude of medications available to help us live healthier lives by controlling our blood sugar, lowering our blood pressure or curing infections,” Tarbox said. “However, it’s important we stay engaged with our prescriptions and don’t lose sight of any potential risk factors.”

The information contained in this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen.

SOURCE: STATEPOINT

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

By d-mars.com News Provider

I

f you’ve ever experienced gas or bloating, you know how uncomfortable and potentially embarrassing it can be.

To help you feel like yourself again, the makers of Pepto Bismol have launched Pepto Gas + Bloating and are sharing some fast facts about what causes gas, how to prevent it, and how to find relief:

vents constipation and keeps stools soft. Choose still water instead of sparkling water or other carbonated drinks, which add extra gas to your stomach.

HOW CAN I DEBLOAT FAST? • Let it out: Bloating is often linked to trapped gas. Allowing your body to release it can help you feel more comfortable.

• Exercise for bloating relief: Get active. A short walk, bike ride, stretching session or time playing outside with the kids can help gas pass through your system. Even a 10-minute walk after meals has been shown to reduce gas and bloating.

• Try over-the-counter remedies: For fast, targeted relief, try an over-the-counter medication like Pepto Gas + Bloating (Simethicone), formulated to start breaking down gas bubbles in minutes. It is available in two forms: maximum-strength Softgels (250 milligrams Simethicone) and mint-flavored Chewable Tablets (125 milligrams Simethicone).

WHY AM I GASSY? Gas builds up in the digestive system when you swallow air and when the large intestine breaks down undigested carbohydrates. Hormone changes around your menstrual cycle can also upset digestive balance and cause gas.

It’s also a good idea to keep Pepto Bismol (Bismuth Subsalicylate) on hand, which provides 5-in-1 stomach relief from diarrhea and an upset stomach due to overindulgence in food or drink.

HOW CAN I PREVENT GAS? • Avoid swallowing air: Eating or drinking too fast can cause you to swallow extra air. Slow down and eat mindfully. If you smoke, chew gum or suck on hard candy, consider quitting, as these habits can also contribute to swallowing air.

• Mind your diet: While beans, peas, lentils, cabbage, onions, broccoli, cauliflower and similar vegetables are nutritious, they can cause bloating for some people. Introduce gas-causing foods gradually, and cook them instead of eating them raw. It’s also a good idea to avoid overeating, as large meals can increase the likelihood of gas.

• Drink more water: Staying hydrated helps keep food moving through your gut, pre-

“Having the right relief when you need it can help you ease bloating, discomfort and pressure, so you can feel like yourself in no time,” says Teresa Achumba, brand director, Pepto.

Discomfort from gas can put a damper on your day.

Fortunately, you can beat bloat with a few small lifestyle changes and the right relief on hand.

For more tips and information, visit pepto-bismol.com.

SOURCE: StatePoint

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8 | June 2026

TRAVEL

By d-mars.com News Provider pending time in the Kentucky wilderness during the day is an unforgettable experience, but there are some one-of-a-kind “noctourism” sites that shouldn’t be missed. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an amateur astronomer, or simply have a thirst for adventure, there are many reasons to consider making Kentucky your next travel destination.

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Cumberland Falls

Cumberland Falls, in the aptly named Cumberland Falls State Park located in eastern Kentucky, measures 68 feet high and 125 feet wide with water that gushes over the falls at 3,600 cubic feet per second. Often called the “Niagara of the South,” the powerful, yet gorgeous Cumberland Falls engages all senses for those who stand close enough. But what makes this particular waterfall so special is that it produces a moonbow every full moon when there’s a clear night sky.

A moonbow is a rare rainbow-like optical phenomenon that occurs when moonlight is refracted through water droplets in the air. Cumberland Falls is one of two places in the entire world known to consistently produce a moonbow. The best place to witness the moonbow is from the Cumberland Falls observation area, which is open 24 hours. The bow is generally visible between dusk and midnight. The darker the sky, the easier the moonbow is to see.

Looking for a spot to set up a telescope or just somewhere to lie on a blanket and stare into the night’s sky? Then look no further than Mammoth Cave.

Located in rural southcentral Kentucky. Mammoth Cave is one of 200 places in the world that is recognized as an International Dark Sky Park. This designation is given to areas that have policies that protect against light pollution, which in turn makes it easier to see stars, planets, constellations and even the International Space Station.

Just a 45-minute drive south of Louisville are more than 16,000 acres of pristine wilderness at Bernheim Forest and Arboretum. This protected forest and research facility offers some of the best hiking in the commonwealth. Additionally, the arboretum offers several programs designed to teach visitors about the natural world around them after the sun goes down.

Mammoth Cave

Madisonville’s Mahr Park Arboretum, best known for its 265 acres of native plants, trees, and outdoor community facilities; also hosts Star Parties throughout the year. These events feature sky tours given by local astronomy experts who provide telescopes for all to look through as they learn about the galaxy.

For those wanting to explore the galaxy when the sun is out or the clouds are blocking the view, fear not. Kentucky has several world-class planetariums open to the public. Travel through space, visiting planets and stars light-years from earth, from the comfort of a reclined seat in the Bluegrass State.

The Hardin Planetarium in Bowling Green is considered a classic architectural icon on Western Kentucky University’s campus. Housed by a full dome, the theater provides a 360-degree surround view that makes the farthest galaxies seem to be mere feet above the seats.

When it comes to enjoying celestial wonders, this list just scratches the surface of what Kentucky has to offer.

Visit www.kentuckytourism.com and start planning your noctourism adventures today!

SOURCE: STATEPOINT Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication