Issuu

Serving Richmond, Rosenberg, Fulshear & Needville

MARCH/ APRIL 2021

OakBend Medical Center’s

Medical Focus

Modern-Day Heroes Battle COVID-19 on a Collaborative Front

In the Sweet Life Garden:

Spring Edition

Outdoor Movies in Wessendorff Park { City of Richmond }

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Op-Ed

By Patti Parish-Kaminski, Publisher

The Last Straw has finally happened. That last nerve of mine that has been poked, proded and provoked over the course of the past 12 months has finally snapped – kind of like our water pipes this week. It’s not so much that the wicked winter wonderland did it; it was the response – or lack thereof – of our leaders. This winter thing is serious; we are in quite a fix, and what we need are solutions and solid advice. Now don’t get me wrong, we are getting just that from a few amazing Fort Bend leaders, and I am going to call them out right here for their diligence in providing solutions, cogent information and compassion. These men are the real deal, and as I dealt with no water, no electricity, evacuating mother from a dangerous situation and sending a magazine to press, I appreciated their guidance because that’s what they did: they guided, they led, they offered solutions during a crisis.

Frozen, fierce and fed up. They distributed information about warming centers, they answered real questions about ERCOT and our power instability and most importantly, they shared their dedication to legislative accountability. And my understanding is that two of these leaders weren’t even in Fort Bend. Congressman Troy Nehls and State Representative Jacey Jetton were on this situation from Washington and Austin. Thank you, gentlemen. Missouri City Mayor Robin Elackatt and Sugar Land Mayor Joe Zimmerman stepped up to do what their jobs required: lead. When the water supply became dangerous, when more warming centers needed to be opened, when vital information about city services needed to be shared, these leaders were there. I thank you, gentlemen.

Now for the less than stellar news. Here is what we do not need from leaders during a crisis: snarky comments. No “Good morning to everyone but ERCOT” or “Good morning to everyone except those with power who are not conserving.” Wow. And I thought I was cranky in the morning. That is not helpful nor is it indicative of a leader. It’s rather adolescent in my opinion. Could anyone really imagine – during a crisis where people are losing their lives and their livelihoods – the highest-ranking county official saying something like that? I don’t know what we are going to do Fort Bend, but we need to do something. It’s important; it’s imminent. It’s not easy being an elected official. I have and have had many dear friends in public service, and the name says it all: serving the public for the greater good. It’s work. It’s hard. It’s self-sacrificing. Kind of like running your own business and raising a family – just sayin’. I have immense respect for our leaders who chose this arena as their life’s work and do it well. I reiterate: it’s not easy. And frankly, it’s not for everyone. Or maybe it is. I know people who run their own successful businesses, take care of their employees, raise their families and give back to the community. So, who’s going to step up? Honestly, I think it could be any of us – and yes, I did say us – you or I. I don’t know what the future holds. My crystal ball froze up this week. But please remember my friends, we are Fort Bend Strong; not Fort Bend Petty. The views and opinions expressed in Op-Ed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of absolutely! focus media. Any content provided by our bloggers or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual or anyone or anything.

Stay Informed . . . Stay Engaged . . . Stay Focused . . .

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CONTRIBUTORS MARCH/APRIL 2021 Volume 9 | number 2

{COVER STORY} 4 OakBend Medical Center’s Modern-Day Heroes Battle COVID-19 on a Collaborative Front When COVID-19 came at us, OakBend Medical Center battled the disease and its impact on staff and patients with a comprehensive, best practices approach. They fought – and continue to fight – as a team, and the results are recoveries.

Patti Parish-Kaminski Publisher Page 0

{Features}

0 Alisa Murray AlisaMurray.com Pages 9

9 IN THE SWEET LIFE GARDEN: SPRING EDITION

How does your spring garden grow?

12 MEDICAL FOCUS Health Care News You Can Uses

{Columns}

{Newsworthy}

0 ON THE PORCH WITH PATTI

The Last Straw

16 FORT BEND STRONG “It ain’t bragging if it’s true” –

Anonymous Texas quote

Historic {Downtowns } Brandy Snyder, RN, Clinical Coordinator, Long Cao, MD, Joe Freudenberger, CEO and Jamie Le Blanc, RN, ICU Manager.

8 ROSENBERG 17 RICHMOND

The Honorable Pete Olson Contributor Page 16

7 New Rosenberg Railroad Museum Exhibit Debuts

8 City of Richmond Movies In Wessendorff Park

{In Every Issue} 3 EXCLAMATION POINTS! 10 OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART OF BRAZOS

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MARCH / APRIL 2021 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.absolutelybrazos.com

281.238.0735

exclamation points! Associate Publisher, KAY GARRETT Vol. 9 No.2 March/April 2021 281-690-4242 www.absolutelyBRAZOS.com absolutely! focus media P. O. Box 1253 Richmond, Texas 77406

Publisher Patti Parish-Kaminski a s s o c iat e P u b l i s h e r Kay Garrett ART D IRECTOR Grace Belleza W EB D ESI G N ER Joey Belleza SOCIAL M E D IA M A NA G ER Natalee Moore IT S u pp o rt Adm i n i s t r at i v e / S a l e s A s s i s ta n t Kolton W. Kaminski CO N TRIBUTORS M.G. Angulo Alisa Murray Pete Olson I N Q UIRIES 281-690-4242 e d i t o r ia l SUB M ISSIO N S Patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Subscription requests are free to West Fort Bend area addresses. Annual paid subscription of $25 required outside West Fort Bend area.

Spring is Blooming! Now that I survived the arctic blast with no electricity and frigid temps, I’m more than ready for warm sunshine-filled days. Spring is a season to remind us that new life keeps emerging, new blooms appear and a great variety of growth keeps on showing up all around us. The plants and trees that we love emerge and bloom in due time. They all have their own natural cycles. For us, it’s an opportunity to refresh, repair, recover and revitalize ourselves. What are you going to do to emerge and bloom this Spring? Our cover features OakBend Medical Center’s collaborative approach on COVID-19. CEO Joe Freudenberger said the task force was key to OakBend’s management of the pandemic. “You Kay Garrett during the arctic blast. must fight as a team. Everyone must be coordinated in their actions or you won’t be effective.” To read more, see page 6. I personally want to thank OakBend and all of the healthcare workers for working so diligently during this pandemic. You truly are our heroes! Our Medical Focus section is one not to be missed. There are many articles from family physicians to specialists in our Brazos community. We are so fortunate to have such great healthcare so close to home. Our Brazos community has a few fun activities scheduled this spring! An Art Walk & Motor Madness will be in Downtown Richmond, Second Sunday Market Days in Downtown Rosenberg and the Rosenberg Railroad museum will host The Pullman Porter exhibit along with some Sunday Garden Railroad Rundays. See website for dates and times at www.rosenbergrrmuseum.org. OakBend Medical Center is hosting a virtual fundraising event in April – “Power of the Purse.” For more information or sponsorships, visit www. oakbendmedcenter.org/power-of-the-purse. I look forward to seeing you out and about in Brazos! As you find time for renewal, remember – smile, be happy, laugh more and don’t sweat the small stuff. Wishing each of you a Happy Spring, a fun Spring Break and a Blessed Easter! On the Cover: Brandy Snyder, RN, Clinical Coordinator, Joe Freudenberger, CEO, Long Cao, MD and Jamie Le Blanc, RN, ICU Manager. Photo by Alisa Murray Photography.

Absolutely yours,

Kay Garrett kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

absolutely! Brazos Magazine is published by absolutely! focus media, P. O. Box 1253, Richmond, Texas 77406. Copyright © 2021 by absolutely! focus media. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. absolutely! Brazos Magazine does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial, nor do the publishers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. absolutely! Brazos Magazine welcomes editorial submissions from its readers.

MARCH / APRIL 2021 l

COVER STORY

By M.G. Angulo Photos by Alisa Murray Photography

OakBend Medical Center’s

Modern-Day Heroes Battle COVID-19 on a Collaborative Front

hen asked to leave a message for those who will undoubtedly study the coronavirus pandemic decades from now, OakBend Medical Center CEO Joe Freudenberger, offers a rare one — it comes from the perspective of both an everyday citizen and the leader of a hospital. “I would say it was war without anyone shooting at you,” he said somberly. “The enemy was invisible to the naked eye. It was unknown, unstudied and unpredictable. COVID-19 has had a strangling hold on the economy and society’s operations, but the increasing deaths are at the core of the pandemic’s CEO Joe Freudenberger. devastation,” Freudenberger said.

Since the onset of the pandemic, OakBend’s ICU has been nearly full for the entire duration. “The death rate was draining to our staff,” said Freudenberger in a dismal tone. “But they came back to work the next day, and the next, and the next, and they work in the most stressful environment you can imagine. They are heroes in every sense of the word. At OakBend and every hospital across the country, we have modern-day heroes.”

A Collaborative Approach As the community began to succumb to the virus, OakBend Medical Center personnel did not have the luxury of panic. Instead, the hospital’s physicians, specialists and leaders formed a COVID-19 task force. This team of medical minds cooperated to battle the spread of the virus and manage the treatment of infected patients. The team quickly decided to open a separate hospital unit for COVID-19 patients according to guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Patients who tested positive for COVID-19 were placed on

MARCH / APRIL 2021 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.absolutelybrazos.com

the unit to be cared for by staff and recover in a supervised setting. Staff wore full personal protective equipment (PPE) on the floor, which was sealed off with protective barriers to protect other patients in the hospital. The team meets weekly on Tuesday to discuss the current coronavirus trends, concerns, treatment protocols and care for COVID-19 patients. The hospital’s emergency management team already had protocols in place for major unexpected events, so forming a COVID-19 task force was a natural step forward. Through this team, “We learned how to manage the pandemic for the safety of our employees and for our patients,” said Freudenberger. Dr. Long Cao, the director of Cardiology at OakBend Medical Group, added that the effectiveness of the hospital’s COVID-19 task force stems from its consistency. On this team, there is “no second-guessing each other’s protocols,” Dr. Cao said. “We discuss any changes to protocols and treatments and what we determine is applied to all of our patients. Every single COVID-19 patient receives the same care, and they are treated from A to Z.” Freudenberger said the task force is key to OakBend’s management of the pandemic. “We set this up immediately because a collaborative approach is what was needed to fight COVID-19, and we wanted the right voices in the room,” he said. “You must fight as a team. Everyone must be coordinated in their actions or you won’t be effective.”

The Ultimate Expression of Gratitude Dr. Cao remembers the first coronavirus cases that came to OakBend and the uncertainty surrounding them. “There wasn’t a fear at that point because we didn’t know much about it,” he said. By May, the fight against the spread of the virus became more urgent – and more real. Both Freudenberger and Dr. Cao recounted the roller coaster ride of cases and deaths increasing, then decreasing, only to surge again. “When it hit us the second time . . . I mean, we were already worn out from the first time,” Dr. Cao said. “It felt defeating.” Freudenberger and Dr. Cao expressed their gratitude for the support and the praise given to healthcare workers across the country. “There are people from the community who reach out in so many ways, with so many forms of appreciation for our staff,” Freudenberger said. “I am very grateful for their kindness and support.” Community members and local businesses stepped up to show their support by donating meals, masks, additional PPE, toiletries and clothing for staff spending long hours at the hospital, and even medical equipment designed to keep staff protected. “The ultimate expression of thankfulness is to adhere to the restrictions and warnings regarding COVID-19,” Dr. Cao said. “This virus is serious. It can affect anyone, people can be asymptomatic, and it is difficult to predict how someone will be affected.”

Locations OakBend Medical Center is the last remaining independent nonprofit hospital in the Greater Houston Area. It has two hospital campuses in Fort Bend County and one in Wharton County: Jackson Street Hospital Campus 1705 Jackson Street Richmond, Texas 77469 Phone: 281.341.3000 Williams Way Hospital Campus 22003 Southwest Freeway Richmond, Texas 77469 Phone: 281.341.2000 Wharton Hospital Campus 10141 US Hwy 59 Rd Wharton, Texas 77488 Phone: 281.344.5000 For more information on OakBend Medical Center, visit oakbendmedcenter.org.

Brandy Snyder, RN, Clinical Coordinator, Long Cao, MD and Jamie Le Blanc, RN, ICU Manager. MARCH / APRIL 2021 l

Both of Dr. Cao’s grandparents, whom he said obeyed pandemic restrictions and “didn’t go anywhere,” recently passed away from complications caused by the virus. They spent their last days at home, as they requested. This tribulation, that he and so many others are enduring, is why it is crucial that the pandemic be taken seriously. “It’s been a year,” he said, letting the words sink in. “It’s been a year of this, and people are becoming nonchalant. As a healthcare worker, you feed on people recovering. That’s the reward. That’s the instant satisfaction,” Dr. Cao shared. The pandemic

almost drained healthcare workers dry of that feeling. “When you do everything right, when you follow all the protocols, when you’ve cranked everything to the max, and you see them continue to deteriorate? And the only thing you can do is watch it happen?” He lets the questions hang in the air for a moment. “It is depressing,” he concluded. “The image is burned into your mind.” But Dr. Cao and OakBend Medical Center did not let that image distract them from saving the community members that they could. As of this writing, there have been 455 recoveries of COVID-19 at OakBend Medical Center. “I’m impressed and thankful for how OakBend has been able to handle this,” Dr. Cao said. “We may not be a huge institution with a huge backing, but we put community first.”

Dr. Long Cao.

Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 CEO Joe Freudenberger.

Wear a mask. Masks help prevent you from getting COVID or spreading it to others. Wear a mask in public or when around people who don’t live in your household. Stay 6 feet away from others. Avoid close contact with people by putting at least six feet of distance between yourself and others. Remember that even people without symptoms may be able to spread the virus. Avoid crowds. Avoid crowded areas like restaurants, bars and movie theatres. Being around large crowds puts you at a higher risk for COVID. Avoid poorly ventilated spaces. Avoid indoor spaces that do not have access to fresh air from the outdoors. If indoors, bring in fresh air by opening windows and doors.

Wash hands often. Wash your hands for 30 seconds with soap and water after coughing, sneezing, after using the restroom and before eating and preparing food. If soap is not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover coughs and sneezes. Always cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Discard the tissue immediately and wash or disinfect your hands. Clean and disinfect. High-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, countertops, desk phones, keyboards and toilets should be cleaned and disinfected once daily.

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NEWSWORTHY

New Rosenberg Railroad Museum Exhibit Debuts The Rosenberg Railroad Museum will be launching the first of three temporary exhibitions this year. In honor of Black History Month, the first exhibit will be “The Pullman Porter Exhibit: How Railroads Changed the West & Pullman Porters Changed the World.” This exhibit will run February 5th through May, 31st. The Rosenberg Railroad Museum curator, Cecilia Abad, in collaboration with the Black Cowboy Museum on the history of the black cowboy and the effects of railroading on that particular industry, was able to discover historical stories of struggles, adaptions, then small triumphs to lead the way for positive change in our nation. The addition of temporary exhibitions to the museum helps fulfill their mission by connecting people and events throughout railroading history to our community and visitors. For more information, visit www.rosenbergRRmuseum.org or call 281633-2846.

High academic standards and current technology All denominations welcome No state testing $5900 annual tuition per student

281-342-5813 1426 George St. Rosenberg, TX 77471 www.holyrosary-school.org MARCH / APRIL 2021 l

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281-725-6085 830 3rd Street • Suite 205 Rosenberg, Tx 77471 www.jcm-cpa.com

Richmond is bringing back the monthly free outdoor movies beginning with National Treasure at Wessendorff Park, 500 Preston Street, beginning March 5th. The free outdoor film screening is organized by the City of Richmond and will be held in Wessendorff Park with plenty of room for distancing and kids to run. As in past years, Rotary Club of Richmond will supply free popcorn and the City will provide water. Families are encouraged to bring their own chairs and blankets. The City of Richmond continues to organize these screenings for the community to provide free family friendly events for residents and visitors to Richmond. The setting of Wessendorff Park offers a peaceful backdrop against the historic Morton Cemetery with movies beginning at dark. Citizens should check Richmond’s Facebook page @RichmondTXGov for updates the week of the events.

In the Sweet Life Garden:

Spring Edition By Alisa Murray

It’s almost here – my favorite time of the year – and there’s so much to do to be prepared for the garden. With some thoughtful planning and soil prep, you too could be well on your way to creating your very own yard to table dinner. Here’s what should be done right now in the garden and going forward for the spring season.

F ruit Trees

Vegetables

Vegetables that need to be started from seedlings should be put in small containers that can be cared for close to the house until they are strong enough to be moved to what I call their “forever homes.” It’s also time to pick up several varieties of peppers, tomatoes, zucchini, squashes and herbs from the local farmer’s markets. Soon after you see the tomatoes for purchase, cucumbers and eggplants will follow. Specialty varieties for seed starting should be done with great care, only a couple of seeds per container, and fertilized with a seaweed root The Purple Russian Tomato. stimulator. Stagger lettuce seedlings and beets so they stay at various stages of development, and as you are cooking from one, there’s another just behind it for consumption. This insures you will always have what you need for salads. I always plant the usual varieties of tomatoes found in the markets because the Bonnie Bell man knows what works here and takes that confusion out of the equation for you. Buy what you will eat; however, there’s nothing more delightful than growing heirloom purple’s such, as Black Beauties, Blue Cream Berries, Cherokee Purples or the tiger striped Green Zebra. They are all different and create not only a spectacular display to wow your Instagram, but they add something quite unique and lovely to your plate. The Blue Cream Berries Tomato

In our part of the country, fruit trees are planted after the danger of a cold snap has passed. Prep the soil in the garden for these and directly place where you want these to live and grow long term. Be conscious of the wild life as they also love fruits and will partake. Citrus can be a little tricky, and I have the grapefruits, lemons and limes now in the orchard but not before spending a full year closer to where I have kept an eye on them. Same thing goes for those dragon fruits, olives and pomegranates. Don’t forget to fertilize everything and keep an eye out for pests. Acting early on can save or kill all of your efforts. I recommend a daily walk through the gardens making notes of who needs what so everyone remains “living a sweet life” in there.

Flowers

Flowering gardens, or as we call them cutting gardens, are one of the most special because you can literally eat from them, decorate your home with them and they act as a big stage attracting all your best friends to pollinate your hard work in the main garden. During March you should be tucking sun flower seeds into your vegetable beds to help support the plants and give a show of color to your creation. Dahlias, zinnias and marigolds can provide you with bouquets for your table and to share with your friends.

Herbs

Finally, the herb garden is a mainstay that once established can and will find you throughout the year cooking more amazing dishes than you thought possible. The main players that you will want to get planted now are, as I say, “all of them.” Even if you do not particularly like rosemary, you’ll discover that many of your herbs protect against disease and can be used in herbal medicine for your home apothecaries. That, of course, along with companion planting is a subject for another time!

Keep on planting and may your garden grow!

Learn more about local gardening at Facebook : “Living the Sweet Life Yard 2 Table Gardening Group.” MARCH / APRIL 2021 l

OUT & ABOUT

Where Children Learn and Grow

Infants to Pre-K After School Programs • Summer Camps

IN THE HEART

OF BRAZOS

Gingerbread Kids Academy

814 FM 2977 Richmond, TX 77469

Gingerbread House Learning Center

2417 4th St., Rosenberg, TX 77471

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital hosted Mega Community Vaccine Event. Although the weather started off dreary for Houston Methodist Sugar Land’s Mega Community Vaccine Event, it did not stop over 8,700 members of the community from getting their COVID-19 vaccine. The event, held on the hospital’s campus February 5th through 7th, was part of the state-designated vaccine hub program for at-risk community members, which included those 65 and older.

Infants • Toddlers 3 & 4 year-old Private, Full-Day Pre-K Programs K-5th After-School Programs for Pick-Up

Arredondo, Carter, Thomas, Williams, Hutchison & Meyer Elementary

Houston Methodist Sugar Land’s Janet Leatherwood and Chris Siebenaler visited with State Representative Jacey Jetton who supported Houston Methodist Sugar Land’s Mega Community Vaccine Event.

NCI Accepted 281-239-2110

www.gbkidsacademy.com twkaminski@sbcglobal.net 10

Six hundred Houston Methodist volunteers assisted with the three-day vaccine event.

MARCH / APRIL 2021 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.absolutelybrazos.com

OakBend Medical Center staff wore red every Friday in February to show support for American Heart Month.

The 2021 Fort Bend Chamber’s Chairman’s Gala was a double header for The Honorable Pete Olson, former congressman for CD 22 for 12 years. Olson was surprised with two prestigious awards honoring his years of support of Fort Bend. Sugar Land Mayor Joe Zimmerman presented Olson with the Community Spirit Award from the Chamber, and Director of Congressional and Public Affairs from the US Chamber of Commerce John Gonzales presented Olson with the Spirit of Enterprise Award.

Rebecca Bramer and Sherree Oehlke.

ICU Team: Amy Drlik, Patty Masek, Amor Palada, Dixie Thakkar, Tag Doss, Jamie LeBlanc, Kaly Kempf, Raini Butler, Monica Serrata and Marjorie Staine. The Rosenberg Railroad Museum hosted a Winter Wonder Weekend with festival-like activities, games, and crafts for both kids and parents to enjoy including homemade Texas Snow from Frosty.

Keri Schmidt, Fort Bend Chamber CEO, The Honorable Pete Olson and Sugar Land Mayor Joe Zimmerman.

Friday & Saturday 10 am to 4 pm

Check website for most up to date hours.

Amelia, Marty, Andrew and Lucy Gibula.

Chris, Linda and Hudson Casey. MARCH / APRIL 2021 l

Advertorial

Medical Focus H e a l t h Care News You Can Use

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital brings the expertise, skill and latest technology of Houston Methodist to Fort Bend and surrounding counties. Houston Methodist Sugar Land has changed what it means to be a community hospital by performing the most advanced surgical and diagnostic techniques available in Fort Bend County, including brain surgery, open heart surgery and joint replacement surgery — all backed by a healing focus on compassion, hands-on care and outstanding service. Since opening in 1998, Houston Methodist Sugar Land has continually expanded to add new facilities, services and technology to meet the community’s changing needs. Today, the hospital’s campus houses: • Three patient care pavilions with 347 beds and 27 operating rooms • Three medical office buildings, with plans for a fourth • Centers of Excellence in cardiology, neurosciences, oncology, orthopedics, urology and women’s services

Houston Methodist Sugar Land also offers a stand-alone emergency center near Sienna and many specialized physician offices conveniently located throughout Fort Bend County, including primary care offices serving First Colony, Brooks Street, Long Meadow Farms, Riverstone and Sienna. But what really sets Houston Methodist Sugar Land apart is its patient-centric operational philosophy, one built on a strong sense of mission and a deeply ingrained commitment to Integrity, Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Excellence – the Houston Methodist I CARE values. These values guide the staff’s daily interactions with patients, family members and each other, as well as provide a strong foundation for their focus on personal, individualized care. As Fort Bend continues to grow, and health care moves forward, Houston Methodist Sugar Land will continue to grow and change, investing in the community’s health and well-being and ensuring that residents have a first-class choice for medical care. For more information about Houston Methodist Sugar Land, visit houstonmethodist.org/sugarland or call 281.274.7500 to find a physician in your area. See ad on back cover.

Providing Professional Care with a Personal Touch

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Physical Therapy Care and Aquatic Rehab of Fort Bend established in 2003. Each of their two locations provide innovative, multidisciplinary services dedicated to injury prevention and rehabilitation for the community. Their qualified team of professionals promote and provide excellence in rehabilitation services through commitment to patients, advanced education and training and professional ethics. The experienced staff will work as a team with you, your caregivers, family and your physician. Both locations are designed with your physical challenges in mind with convenient parking. The state-of-the-art facilities and equipment also include an on-site specialty pool for aquatic rehab,

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Medical Focus

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allowing complete therapy services. Services are provided to all age groups from pediatrics through adult patients. Physician referrals are accepted from widespread office locations and diverse specialties. They believe communication with their patients and their physicians are most important and make this a priority. Most insurance plans are accepted, including commercial, Medicare and Worker’s Compensation. Physical Therapy Care and Aquatic Rehab of Fort Bend is happy to work with you and your insurance as an added convenience and are committed to professional care with a personal touch. For more information, call 281-3448900 or visit www.ptcare.net to schedule an appointment.

As ADA recognized specialists, Prosthodontists like Dr. Rimes are qualified to offer services in state-of-the-art procedures and techniques, such as: • Cosmetic Dentistry • Dental Implants • Complete and Partial Dentures • Replacing Lost or Loose Teeth • Jaw Joint Problems (TMJ) • Traumatic Injuries • Snoring and Sleep Disorders • Oral Cancer Reconstruction

Stuart Rimes, DDS, MS

The Benefits of Going to a Prosthodontist Do you often feel self-conscious about your smile? Do you have to cover your mouth when you talk? A healthy smile is among the top aspects of a person’s appearance that impacts self-esteem. If you are unhappy about the “look” of your smile, you should consult a Prosthodontist. But what is a Prosthodontist? They are experts in the restoration and replacement of teeth; they make smiles look beautiful and function the way they should. Having this advanced training, Dr. Stuart Rimes can improve your appearance by fixing broken, discolored or missing teeth, many times in just one appointment. Dr. Rimes’ training also gives patients the opportunity to switch from dentures to permanent implant supported teeth in just one day. Did you know that some dentists perform reconstructive dental work after just a weekend course on a procedure? You should know Prosthodontists receive an extra three years of intense, formal training at an accredited institution beyond dental school. People seeking cosmetic, reconstructive or implant retained dental work should do research before making a decision in order to ensure proper care. As ADA recognized specialists, Prosthodontists are qualified to offer service in state-of-the-art procedures and techniques, such as cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, teeth-in-a-day restorations, complete and removable partial dentures, snoring and sleep disorders. By using his extensive training in cosmetic dentistry, along with the latest techniques in dental implants, Dr. Rimes can help you create a smile that looks and feels natural and attractive. If you are considering a change to a healthy smile, visit www. rimesdds.com or call Dr. Stuart Rimes at 281.313.1565.

MARCH / APRIL 2021 l

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Medical Focus The Importance of Having a Primary Care Physician

A primary care physician, or PCP, serves as a key access point into the rest of health care. They treat patients facing a wide range of conditions and disorders, which can include anything from urinary tract infections, mental health and respiratory infections to things like high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes. PCPs also perform annual physicals for disease prevention, which is crucial for early detection of cancer and other diseases – helping you to detect issues earlier while they are most treatable. PCPs can also help you navigate the complexities of health care by referring you to specialists, such as a cardiologists or gastroenterologists, for specific treatments. A PCP knows your full health picture and acts as the central hub of a broader support system of specialists, helping to coordinate complete care among all the different specialists you see by ensuring nothing is overlooked. They also help with medical management by doing things like guiding you on next steps after surgery. Memorial Hermann Medical Group (MHMG) primary care physicians focus on providing individualized care by getting to know you, your medical history and ongoing needs—collaborating with specialists to ensure you receive the treatment and care that’s right for you. Need a PCP? MHMG has highly trained professionals throughout Greater Houston. Choose yours today by visiting memorialhermann.org/mhmg. See ad on page 1.

Dr. David H. Korfin Provides Personalized Treatment Plans for Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Surgery David H. Korfin, DPM, FACFAS is board certified in foot and ankle surgery by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. He received his doctorate of Podiatric Medicine in 1982, graduating from Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine. Dr. Korfin has been in private practice in the Fort Bend/Houston community since 1984. He specializes in reconstructive surgery of the foot and ankle, including endoscopic heel surgery, bunions and hammertoes, along with treatment and management of sports inju-

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Fluid Flow amniotic cell injections are a new state of the art non surgical treatment using amniotic tissue and cells obtained from the innermost layer of the placenta from donors with normal full term pregnancies. Over a period of a few weeks to months, the cells and growth factors assist your body to reduce inflammation and pain and help the body actually repair your damaged tissue. This safe and effective treatment avoids the side effects of steroid injections and can help avoid the need for costly and disabling surgery and time off from work.

• Diplomate, American Board of Podiatric Surgery • Board Certified Foot & Ankle Surgery • Serving Fort Bend for over 30 years • Fellow, American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons • Past President & Current Member of the Harris County Podiatric Medical Society. • Member of the Texas Podiatric Medical Association • Member of the American Podiatric Medical Association • Preferred Provider for most Private Insurance Plans

MARCH / APRIL 2021 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.absolutelybrazos.com

Medical Focus

Dr. David H. Korfin Continued ries, trauma, wound and diabetic foot care. Dr. Korfin’s practice provides care to patients of all ages with a special interest in helping athletes maintain foot and ankle health to effectively pursue their athletic goals. Striving to provide a personalized treatment plan, Dr. Korfin utilizes stateof-the-art medical and surgical techniques all within a warm, compassionate and caring environment. He offers patients cutting-edge surgical techniques, such as endoscopic heel surgery, laser surgery and the use of dissolvable pins and fixation techniques. Dr. Korfin’s office is located in the Sugar Land Medical Plaza attached to St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital at 1327 Lake Pointe Parkway, Suite 510 in Sugar Land. For more information, visit www. drdavidkorfin.com or call 281.313.FEET (3338).

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Having a Healthy Weight is Important Try some of the following activities to help celebrate your health, and if you are not already at a healthy weight, begin making changes in your life: • Eat well and stop dieting – Incorporate all five food groups into your meals each day while eating at regular intervals. Don’t set a diet goal thinking that being “thin” is going to make you happy. • Be active – Do this by focusing on the pleasure you feel when you move along with the health benefits of being active. Start with five minutes a day. As that becomes easier, increase the time you move. • Relax – Take a 10-15 minutes break to relax each day. Meditate, or at least take the time to clear your mind and let go of stress. Remember, this probably won’t happen the first time you try it, but hang in there, as it becomes easier and stress has been proven to lead to high blood pressure, chest pains, back pain, indigestion, headaches, insomnia, anxiety, depression, confusion, mood swings, irritability and anger. Achieving a healthy weight is about giving yourself the tools to have a healthy lifestyle. Talk to your doctor about the steps necessary to help you begin your healthy weight journey. According to Dr. Gildardo Ceballos, Director of Family Physicians at OakBend Medical Group, “Your doctors are here to help you live your best possible life. This includes taking care of your health, weight and mental wellbeing. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or voice your concerns to your family practitioner; we are here to help you.” For help reaching your healthy weight, contact Dr. Ceballos at 281-238-7870.

MARCH / APRIL 2021 l

“It ain’t bragging if it’s true.” Anonymous Texas quote

Photo source: fortbendcountytx.gov.

owdy, y’all! Welcome to a new, regular column in the absolutely! focus media family of magazines. We’re calling it Fort Bend Strong. Our intent is to point out why Fort Bend County is the greatest place in the United States to raise a family, start a business, and chase your American Dream. That’s Fort Bend Strong!

Fort Bend Courthouse in Richmond.

Having the honor of being the elected United States Congressman for nearly all of Fort Bend County for twelve years, I have a unique perspective on why we are Fort Bend Strong. It comes from being one of 36 Members of Congress from Texas and one of 441 Representatives from all 50 states, five territories and one federal district. One of the things Members of Congress typically talk about is their home. We ask a lot of questions. “Tell me about the district you represent. How’s your local economy doing? Are you adding jobs? How are you doing with recovery from natural disasters – hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, fires, etc.? Are your public schools in trouble? Are your roads one massive pothole? Do you ever wish your home wasn’t so dependent on dollars coming from Washington, DC?”

Every time a colleague asked me questions like these, a big Fort Bend Strong smile appeared on my face. My answers were facts we all know. Our economy? Booming. Our job creation? Explosive. Our recovery from Harvey? Great. Our public schools? Outstanding and diverse. Terrible roads? Nope. Dependent on money from Washington? Huh?!? They would all shake their heads in disbelief, especially friends from California and New York. A few accused me of bragging without facts. They really did. It became clear very quickly that my colleagues’ reactions weren’t about unjustified Texas bragging. They were about an overwhelming jealousy of Texas. Since Texas jealousy rages in every other state in the United States, we felt it was important that y’all have the necessary tools to teach “the uninformed” why Texas is so special. Even some of our Texas neighbors who don’t live in Fort Bend County are jealous of Fort Bend. Fort Bend Strong is a way to correct these misguided attitudes. Each Fort Bend Strong column will share real stories about real Fort Bend residents – ordinary neighbors who respond to life’s challenges in a self-sacrificing manner that makes all of us better – Fort Bend Strong. Some of these stories may bring tears of Fort Bend pride to your eyes. That’s Okay – that’s Fort Bend Strong. You can help. If you have a Fort Bend Strong story, please send it to pete@ absolutelyfocusmedia.com. Fort Bend Strong is not about politics. If you want political viewpoints and comments, feel free to watch MSNBC or Fox News. Our columns will be only positive and only about us. We are Fort Bend Strong!

MARCH / APRIL 2021 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.absolutelybrazos.com

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