FOCUS Winter Haven 03-05

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october 2010 myfocustv.com

Board Certified Urologist Reginald A. Allen, M.D., F.A.C.S. Nurse Practitioner Alice Hunter, MSN, FNP, BC

SPECIALIZING IN: • Male and Female Urinary Disorders • Adult and Pediatric Urology • Prostate Disease

• Kidney Stones • Erectile Dysfunction • No-Scalpel Vasectomy

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3

table of contents

october 2010 volume 3 issue 5

101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd.

Plant City, FL 33563 Phone 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990

Publisher Mike Floyd

Family of Community Magazines

Office Manager Dede Floyd Copy Editor Lynne Warren advertising director Brent Simmons Sales Sophia Hyde Holly Far mer Linda Simmons Production Anthony Sassano Tony Cartagena

ontheCOVER 8 FOCUS

Plant City Lakeland Brandon Winter Haven Lake County South Tampa

Winter Haven and the surrounding areas are such great communities where the people who reside there seem to understand what is important in life - it is all about community.

Find out about some things and local people that continue to make Winter Haven an amazing place to live.

16

Spotlight

19 Own Your Own FOcus Magazine

28

Attention Focus readers. Definitely do not miss this month’s feature about how husband and wife teams have survived and even had their marriages strengthened through a diagnosis of breast cancer for the woman. The qualities of Strength, Love, Faith and Hope sustained these four. Now, they want to encourage others with their stories and their actions in the community.

october 2010 myfocustv.com

contributors Al Ruechel Bruce Rodwell Gil Gott Jo-An Lusk Nate Davis Natalie Sweet Felix Haynes

Editorial Interns Raven Leverett

standards of accuracy The goal of the writers at FOCUS Magazine is to provide heart-warming stories that are accurate from the start. Being human, however, we sometimes make mistakes. Please forgive us.

business profile

Professional approach to customer service brought Ronnie Campbell of Oxygen Express and Debbie Nelson, a certified mastectomy/orthotic fitter together to add a new dimension to the already well established medical equipment supplier. The all new Mastectomy Boutique is open to serve. In this business, it’s all about the fitting, and the care provided to those who need their services. The best fit is a local one.

So if you notice anything that is incorrect, then please do not hesitate to contact the editorial department and inform it about the fact error.

To do so, call (813) 707-8783 or e-mail editorial@ floydpublications.com. The staff will fix the error in a timely manner.

Readers who wish to respond to an article – not correct facts – can do so by writing a letter to the editor. If you need any other type of assistance, then please view the directory for the appropriate department.

The staff at FOCUS Magazine is committed to serving their consumers and customers to the fullest of abilities. You’re paying attention to our words. Let us pay attention to yours.

Dining Profile

If fresh is for you, then Katie’s Cafe is, too. Seriously, why not eat healthy and save time and money as well. Katie’s Cafe prepares healthy meals with culinary flair so that you don’t have to spend the evening in the kitchen. Incredible food by an Orlando Culinary Institute trained chef is only a phone call away.

23 - City of Winter Haven

Staff Writers Cheryl Johnston Brian West Joe Bowles Phil Neary Derek Maul Kristi Linbaugh Dan Conrod Jane Waters Joy Townsend Mark Page

Sales interns Miriam Rattes

Breast Cancer is a cause embraced by many communities around the country. Winter Haven families are fortunate to have Dr. Vincent Carifi on their team when this dreaded disease strikes. His advice, his expertise, and his compassion make this month’s spotlight interview a great read.

20 - Main Street Winter Haven

4

Photographers Suzanne Gallagher Billy Friend Lori Blaser

LOCAL

feature

MYFOCUSTV.COM Local Community Stories

Licensed territories are available.

If you are interested in owning your own Focus Magazine call Mike Floyd at 813-707-8783 ext. 26

photo by Potthast Studios

12

FOCUSTV

Distribution Doug McGee Belva DeVane

human pink ribbon

30 - Event Calendar

FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local businesses, restaurants and many local venues.

Letters, questions and comments can be sent to us at editorial@floydpublications.com.

Advertisers warrant and represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. Focus Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers.

All letters and their contents sent to Focus Magazine become the sole property of Floyd Publications, Inc and may be reproduced thereof. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Floyd Publications, Inc. Use or duplication of material used in this publication is prohibited without approved written consent from Floyd Publications, Inc.

Physicians and Nurses refer more

Patients to Doctors of Audiology than

any other Hearing Care Provider in America!

Thank You Central Florida!

Winter Haven Audiology is Celebrating 30 Years Serving the Hearing Impaired of Central Florida. We owe our success to your continued support.

When it comes time for you to have your hearing and communication needs evaluated, we suggest you compare our expertise, prices and services. We provide the best professional care at prices you can afford. We look forward to helping you over the next 30 years.

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“When I started having problems with my hearing, I asked my doctor where I should go.

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october 2010 myfocustv.com

I

t seems like the older we get, the harder we’re working. I look back on past phases of my life and think about how much easier I had it then, knowing full well in twenty years I may very well say the same thing about where I’m at right now. However, the more I think about it, I’m not so sure life keeps getting harder. Rather, as we enter into each new phase of our lives, we face new obstacles and challenges.

Once we get through it, it doesn’t seem as difficult as it looked from the other end.

For example, I think most of us look back at our high school years and wish we could have appreciated how simple life was. You don’t have to manage a family, pay bills, meet the demands at work, etc. However, I know several high school students whose lives don’t seem as uncomplicated as I remember mine being.

Students are waking up between 5:30 a.m. and 6:30 a.m., earlier than a lot of people do for work, so they can be in their desks when the bell rings at 7:00 a.m. They spend all day in the classrooms and are released about 3 p.m., at which time they have a 15-minute window to get set up for practice, whether it’s band, sports or any other activity.

Depending on the program, practices will usually last until 5:30 or 6:00 p.m. Students then eat a quick dinner at home before starting on an evening’s worth of homework. This routine goes on each day, but on top of it, they also balance many other extra curricular activities, part time jobs and anything else they choose to add to their plate.

Every student’s story and schedule looks a little different, but it’s not rare to see students putting in 12-18 hour days every single weekday. And yet, as the teenagers around us stress out, we may roll our eyes thinking they don’t realize how easy they have it. What I realize now is as we grow older, life tends to hand to us the most we can handle at that time. As we grow into stronger individuals, life will send us a new challenge to learn from.

Read the interviews this month with four breast cancer survivors in honor of October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month. As you will be able to tell from the stories they shared, it’s certainly one of those things life unexpectedly throws at you and suddenly all your worries from the past seem so miniscule. And for these survivors, you can definitely see that it made them much stronger in the end.

Mike Floyd Publisher

GET TO KNOW OUR DOCTORS: ROBERT CASSELL, MD, PHD.

“ I have spent my life

fighting cancer.”

Robert Cassell, MD, PhD Medical Director, Winter Haven Hospital Cassidy Cancer Center

Elected by his peers for inclusion in Best Doctors in America® from 1998 to 2010.

For over 30 years, since graduating magna cum laude from Harvard and earning both a PhD and MD at Duke University, Dr. Robert Cassell has led the battle locally against cancer. He has practiced in Polk County for 25 years and has helped to bring new advances in cancer treatment to the local area. Just as important to his patients, Dr. Cassell is a genuine, compassionate professional – a doctor you want to have on your team.

At the Winter Haven Hospital Cassidy Cancer Center, we know that fighting cancer takes an experienced, multidisciplinary team.

It’s why all of our physicians are board-certified. It’s why the Cassidy Cancer Center is affiliated with the University of Florida College of Medicine and Shands HealthCare and it’s why we’re proud to have doctors like Robert Cassell on our staff.

Compassion. Innovation. Trust. We’re your family’s choice.

For more information about our services or to make an appointment with Dr. Cassell, please contact the Winter Haven Hospital Cassidy Cancer Center at 863-292-4670.

FOCUS Magazine winter haven october 2010

7

Local Âť Focus

Aat BelkDay of Pampering T Written By: Brent Simmons

wo years ago, we had Chris Hazelwood on our cover and much of the interview was about the upcoming 1st Annual Pampering event. Here we are and the 3rd Annual Pampering event was just held at Belks in Citi Centre. More than 500 people

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october 2010 myfocustv.com

came to mingle and shop. Most importantly, they got great information. For anyone who has or is fighting breast cancer, this was their day to feel special, to be pampered.

Money was raised for the American Cancer Society, and models strutted the red carpet.

Local » Focus

Main Street T Written By: Brent Simmons

he first Main Street Market Day was a success, even though it was held on Saturday, September 4, 2010, which was over the long holiday. Fifteen to twenty vendors served the host of folks meandering through tents and booths where they could buy specialty foods, organic produce, handmade products, or learn about nonprofit organizations in our community.

While the number of folks traveling on the long weekend affected the number of vendors and guests, the event was well attended and is guaranteed to become a destination for locals and visitors alike as it grows.

A few years ago I lived in St. Petersburg, which hosted a similar Saturday Morning Market. Because my daughter and I enjoyed that one so much, we jumped at the chance to see what Winter Haven’s Main Street organization would do. We definitely weren’t disappointed. These folks know how to throw a party. Karen and Amber work tirelessly with their many supporters,

Market Day

downtown businesses, the Chamber of Commerce, and of course, the City of Winter Haven, to give us events like this one.

“Main Street Market Day is not a replacement for Thursday’s Farmers Market and it is not a flea market,” said Karen Thompson, Director of Mainstreet Winter Haven. It is a place where you’ll find unique and diverse specialty items and more importantly, where you can experience community and enjoy Winter Haven’s downtown. “Non-profits are welcome to join us and tell the folks what they are doing and how others can get involved,” Thompson continued.

Mark your calendars and plan on being downtown the first Saturday of each month between 8:00am and 1:00pm in Virginia Miller Park. As the holidays approach you’ll find great gifts and perhaps some new friends, but most importantly, you’ll find your community - and a place where you belong.

FOCUS Magazine winter haven october 2010

9

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Local » Focus

Saluting all our Heroes “W Written By: Brent Simmons

ho’s your hero,” was the question in Winter Haven on Saturday September 11, 2010 as hundreds gathered in downtown’s parks to salute all our heroes. This first annual event was held to mark the ninth anniversary of the attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon.

Winter Haven leaders decided to focus on the positive that these horrific events caused.

Mayor Jeff Potter told me, “It is a shame that 9/11 was the catalyst for events like this one, but it is important for us to honor those who serve, and it is good to see so many people come out to join in the celebration.”

Karen Thompson of Main Street Development said her challenge was, “How many tanks and trucks can we fit downtown.”

They did a great job. The park was ringed by the equipment used by our local first responders and some of the equipment used by our military heroes. It was great to see our young airmen, soldiers, sailors, Marines, firefighters, police and EMTs get a pat on the back from our community; however, this event was all-inclusive. The goal was to salute

all of our heroes, so the question, “Who is your hero?” was really the questions of the day.

The walkways of the park were lined with white bags. The bags were sold to raise funds and to allow everybody to honor their own hero by writing the name of the hero on the bag. As darkness fell a candle in each bag was lit, and the display was touching and beautiful. An Elvis impersonator was on hand to entertain, and there were children’s activities, too.

Lead by a bagpiper, those assembled took a freedom walk around downtown to further celebrate and honor our heroes. Under a huge American Flag hanging from the booms of fire trucks, local dignitaries spoke on the event, the folks we were honoring, and our community.

Winter Haven and the organizers should be proud of this event, which is sure to become an annual time not to miss.

FOCUS Magazine winter haven october 2010

11

Thriving

Not Simply Surviving Breast Cancer

Written By: Brent Simmons

F

ocus met recently with four incredible women and their husbands to talk about Breast Cancer from a personal perspective. Each of these people exhibited the four traits mentioned. We’ve taken poetic license and focused on the trait that seemed most appropriate to the lady being interviewed to help the interviews flow and to connect them. These were some of the most candid and powerful conversations I have ever had. I hope my writing does honor to these folks that so bravely discussed their personal fight against Breast Cancer.

Strength Teresa & Duke Burr Love Chris and Hap Hazelwood I

went to the doctor’s by myself because I didn’t expect anything out of the ordinary. When he told me I had cancer, I didn’t fall apart. In fact, the first thing that came to my mind was, ‘Everybody has a cross to bear and this is mine.’ I sent Duke a text message - not the recommended method, by the way. I cried later when I talked to my mother, but for the most part I took the news like I would anything else. We all have our burdens and I never asked, ‘Why me?’

I started the process of gathering the facts I would need to make the critical decisions concerning the treatment of the disease. I could have chosen to go with less invasive surgery, and follow up chemo and radiation therapy. It was our sons’ last year in high school and I didn’t want to drag out the treatment, so that all his memories would be filled with pictures of me sick from the treatment. So, I chose to undergo a bilateral mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. Six weeks after surgery I participated in the 3-day Walk for a Cure.

It is so important for a woman or family going through this to take one day at a time and stay positive. I have friends now who tell me that since they’ve seen me go through it, they feel like they could face it with better. That’s what it does to you in the long term. You want to make everyday count. I go to bed at night asking myself, ‘What did I do today that was important?’ Today I did this interview.

Duke: This disease attacks a woman in a way that can be devastating to her health, but also to her self-image, her sense of who she is. I think as her partner the most important thing you can do is give her some slack, and stay positive. I loved this woman and it can shake your faith, but you have to stay strong and let her vent. You also need to recognize that it is affecting your kids. You should try to keep things as normal a possible.

T

hree years ago Chris got the call, ‘You need to come to my office. we’ve found something.’ Immediately she and Hap headed to the doctor’s office. Fighting breast cancer is not a fight for just the patient. From that day on these two became a team dedicated to fighting this disease.

Hap had a better understanding than most of us would, as he had his own fight with prostate cancer just a few years earlier.

For those in the fight the goal becomes to live, cancer free, for at least five years. After three years your chance of the cancer reoccurring begins to go down, but at five years the odds are really good that you will live without a reoccurrence. Chris recently went through a scare when she detected a change in her breast. Fortunately, it was not cancer, but this illustrates how this disease stays with you.

Chris’ story is one of activity. She used her past experience organizing events to put on the first annual Pampering Day, and this year added the Human Pink Ribbon, which next year she hopes will beat the Guinness Book of World Records. Focus just covered the 3rd Annual Pampering Day. It is also a love story. Talking to these two, it becomes clear that their love for one another, for their community, and for others who are facing this disease is what got them through the bad days and what drives their lives now. They are fully invested in continuing the events that raise money and awareness, but more than that, those which give current patients a place to go for a moment of feeling pampered. Chris would also like to see Winter Haven create a support group for men men with cancer or men with partners that have cancer.

Hap: The day of Chris’ surgery things didn’t go as planned. What was supposed to be a short procedure was taking longer than I had expected. That was the hardest time, not knowing. I felt like, for the first time, I might lose her. I couldn’t bear the thought. I will tell you that it makes me appreciate everyday with her. Every moment we have is precious. We don’t want anyone to think they have to go through this alone.

FaithTammy and Fred Johnson HopeDianne & James Faubert I

had gone through cancer, not breast cancer, earlier in my

life. I think to some degree that is a double-edged knife.

On one hand, I knew I could survive, but I also knew what the treatment would be like, and I certainly wasn’t looking forward to it. My faith in God, and the love of my family and friends was what got me through it. This disease makes you get on your knees and pray.

The Bible says that God will not give you more than you can handle, and I held on to that promise. I knew that God had his hand in it and was in control. At the time I was doing a Beth Moore Bible study, and we were going over the Creation story. I read that God created us in his image, male and female. What I got out of it was that I was a woman because God created me that way, not because of the body parts I carried. This passage gave me the understanding to deal with a serous part of this disease, the loss of one or both breasts. My breast don’t make me a woman, God did.

I had to change doctors because I was really unhappy with my first doctor. It is important that you and your team of doctors are on the same page. Bedside manner is a reason to find another doctor. I counted on the people around me to be positive and having Fred with me was a source of strength. I’ve crossed the five-year mark and don’t think about it everyday, but I found peace in the chaos through my faith that God had a plan and He was in control.

Fred: Everybody is affected and husbands should expect changes in their lives, as well. In my day to day business, I had always been involved in everything, but during this time I brought on people who could free me up to focus on Tammy. It turned out to be for the better and we have kept the structure in place, but I’m not sure I would have made the change without Tammy’s illness. Afterwards, simple things become more important, and your faith in God grows. It is important to see the positive things that come from going through this.

S

ix months ago my life went whoops. I had always had cysts in my breast tissue and went to have one checked out. Behind the cyst was cancer. I went through surgery and chemo. I lost my hair like everybody does. What has got me through? Friends who have gone through it and made it. It gives you hope, and that is so important. It is the foundation on which a positive mental attitude is built. No matter what the diagnosis is, you have to have hope, and the ladies that have gone through it before you, who are so willing to share with you, they can give you hope.

I just finished my last treatment and the doctor’s office made it a celebration. I want to celebrate everyday now, but more importantly, it is my desire to ‘pay it forward.’ So many people sent me cards, said wonderfully encouraging things to me, or brought food by for James and I, that out of this, I have a new mission or ministry. I am here to help others, to show them that they can survive, that they don’t have to go it alone, and that I am here to help them through the hard times that come from getting this diagnosis. Once you’ve been through it, you can see the weaknesses in the system. Filling in the place where information is missing for other women is important to me.

I know me better now than six months ago. I’m stronger than I would have thought. You have to be positive and let go. Build a team that supports you and your goal of beating this disease. It attacks you on so many levels.

I found the best source of information was from other survivors. I’d encourage any woman to reach out to the community and find survivors to talk to. You should never feel like you have to go it alone. I learned during the last six months how much I am loved, and how many great people are in my life.

James: A roller coaster is what I’d call it, but the word that keeps coming up for me is humbling. As men we are fixers, but it doesn’t take long in this fight to figure out there is very little you can fix. It is really a humbling experience. There are so many things you have to do and watch for. Others have said how many ways this disease attacks your wife. Her self esteem, her body, her hormones, just everything is thrown into chaos. I have tried to be there for her, to be one thing that is stable, but on top of that is your hidden fear that maybe you are going to lose your best friend. What got me through it were the men that reached out to me and shared their stories. It is just as important for husbands to know that they aren’t alone.

breast cancer awareness » Focus factors or family history a woman should have her baseline mammogram at 35 years old, another at 40, and every year after 40.

If there are risk or family factors then every woman should have her first mammogram no latter than 10 years before her family member was diagnosed and every year after that. Hey should also consider having an MRI done as well.

ATR advanced technology radiology A Written By: Brent Simmons

Interview with Dr. Torres

radiologist spends 12 – 14 years in school and in residency programs.

They are Medical Doctors who have specialized in imagining technology and diagnosis techniques. Beyond that Dr. I. Torres, ATR’s newest Radiologist, spent an additional year earning her Fellowship in Women’s Imaging. She joins Dr. Anthony T. Rosa and Dr. Ivan Murray at ATR to provide women, who prefer a female doctor, an improved patient experience.

Focus: You’ve been with ATR for a little over two weeks (at the time of the interview). Where were you prior to joining ATR?

Dr. Torres: I did my residency for Radiology at University of Massachusetts Boston, and I earned my Fellowship in Women’s Imaging at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, a teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School.

I loved everything about Boston, except the cold. I’m from Puerto Rico and like warmer weather, so I came down to Florida Hospital in Orlando and practiced there for 5 years.

OBGYN, because I have a passion for women’s health. Late in my third year I switched to radiology because of my experience with ultrasound technology, but I still have an intense interest in women’s health and the fellowship was a natural development of my career.

Focus: What do you like most about what you do?

Dr. Torres: I like the patient contact, and I love the challenge of diagnosis. It is really gratifying to search and search and find a small bit of cancer that is barely visible. You know you’re making a difference.

Focus: What does being a woman add to your skills?

Dr. Torres: To my skills, nothing really. Dr. Rosa and Dr. Murray are excellent at what the do, and are really great with patients.

What I bring, as a woman, is a more comfortable experience for some women.

They are just more comfortable talking to a woman.

Focus: After all that school why do the fellowship?

Focus: What do you think women should know about breast cancer?

Dr. Torres: I originally wanted to practice

Dr. Torres: I know you’ve heard it and I

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october 2010 myfocustv.com

know they have heard it before, but you can’t put to much emphasis on yearly mammograms and monthly self-exams.

It is also important that they keep their mammograms and bring them with them.

To do the best we can we need to compare the latest mammogram with their past ones.

Remember we are looking for changes.

Focus: When should a woman start having mammograms?

Dr. Torres: We use the American College of Radiologist recommendations. With no risk

If you are having symptoms or feel something different during a self-exam then you need to get a mammogram done right away. Most Breast Cancers are slow to grow and that gives us a window for early detection; however, any symptom or change should be taken very seriously and you should see your doctor or call us immediately.

These are recommendations but any woman who wants to, or feels the need to do more, certainly should. Early Detection can SAVE YOUR LIFE!

breast cancer awareness » Focus Focus: How has the Winter Haven Hospital and the Cassidy Cancer Center evolved to face this disease?

Dr. Cassell: We have developed a multidisciplinary approach involving Radiology, Surgery, Radiation Oncology, and Medical Oncology. Patients meet with doctors in various specialties before embarking on a course of therapy.

Difficult cases are discussed at weekly at multidisciplinary meetings.

We are in the process of obtaining new equipment for diagnosing and treating breast cancer. We are committed to using the most effective and up-to-date treatments for all patients.

Eduardo Torres, M.D. Lake Wales

Focus: What is important for women facing this disease to know?

Cassidy Cancer Center Winter Haven Hospital Written By: Brent Simmons

Interview with Dr. Cassell Focus: How did you come to Winter Haven Hospital?

Dr. Cassell: I first came to Winter Haven in 1984. It was my first position after finishing my training. I was tremendously impressed by the hospital’s commitment to quality care and by the involvement of the physicians in the overall functioning of the hospital. I briefly left Winter Haven to work at another hospital’s cancer center, but I continued to be impressed with the way things were done at Winter Haven hospital, so I was very excited to have the opportunity to return to Winter Haven in 2008 to open the hospital’s Cassidy Cancer Center.

Focus: Given all the specialties in the medical fields why did you choose fighting cancer as the focus of your career?

Dr. Cassell: I felt that oncology was the area where there was the most promise of new developments in diagnosis and treatment.

Over the years I believe that this promise has been fulfilled. We have more effective treatments for cancer, and there are new

ways to make diagnoses that are less difficult for patients to undergo. I look forward to seeing many new treatments and techniques developed in the next few years.

Dr. Cassell: They need to know that breast cancer is most curable if caught early. Even if it is diagnosed late, it can often be effectively treated. There are many different types of treatments for breast cancer, and not every patient has to undergo chemotherapy or radiation. There are also different types of surgery for breast cancer and some breast cancers can be treated with very minimal surgery.

If aggressive treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation are necessary, they can be given now with far fewer side effects than 10 or 20 years ago. Some families are more likely to develop breast cancer than others. We now have tests available, which can predict if certain women have an increased risk of breast cancer.

Focus: How does Breast cancer differ from other forms of cancer in treatment and in the way it affects the patient?

Dr. Cassell: Breast cancer is similar to other cancers in that it can be cured easily if diagnosed early but may require more intensive therapy if diagnosed later.

It differs from other cancers because it is intimately associated with issues of body image and physical attractiveness. The treatment of breast cancer is different from many other cancers because, in addition to standard therapies such as surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, many breast cancers respond to treatments that alter the level or function of the hormones such as estrogen. These hormonal treatments are usually less invasive and easier to tolerate than other types of treatment for cancer.

FOCUS Magazine winter haven october 2010

15

Dr. Vincent G. Carifi, M.D., M.M.M., F.A.C.S. Carifi Breast Care, PA. interview By: Brent Simmons

I

n the fight against Breast Cancer we are lucky to have doctors like Dr. Carifi fighting with us. While preparing this issue we met with so many survivors and heard so many stories about Dr. Carifi, we felt it important to speak to him.

What we heard from his patients were stories of his care and how important he was to their recovery. One story we were told illustrates his dedication to those women under his care.

A patient required a bandage changed on Saturday, but the home health care nurse didn’t show up. When the patient called Dr. Carifi, he did not hesitate. He told the patient to meet him at his office where he and his wife, still in golfing attire, met her and he changed the bandage himself. This is just one of the many stories told about a Doctor who cares about his patients and who goes above and beyond office hours to make sure they have what they need, a fighting chance against a terrible disease.

Focus: Dr. Carifi, thanks for taking the time to speak to us. How did you come to Winter Haven?

Dr. Carifi: After my residency I did a couple of years in the Army Medical Corps. I saw an advertisement for

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Dr. Vincent G. Carifi, M.D., M.M.M., F.A.C.S. • Carifi Breast Care, PA.

Bond Clinic and came down to interview and they hired me. That was over thirty years ago. I practiced at Bond for thirty years as a general surgeon.

It is also why I encourage patients to bring someone with them, so that the friend or spouse can remember or write down what I have to say.

Focus: How did your focus on Breast Care start?

Focus: The diagnosis of having Breast Cancer isn’t a death sentence like it was 20 to 30 years ago, is it?

Dr. Carifi: Toward the end of my time with Bond, I was doing more and more surgeries on Breast Cancer patients. I saw a need in the community for a specialist in this area and decided to open up my own practice to fill that need. Breast Cancer treatment has become a specialty within the surgery community, and in fact, a lot of surgeons are doing extra work after residency to specialize in this field.

Focus: It must be extremely hard telling patients they have cancer?

Dr. Carifi: It is. You know before the patient does and it is so important, that first conversation. It can set the tone for everything and you want to get it right. This disease is hard on everybody, including the physician.

Focus: What’s your number one concern when you explain the results and treatment options?

Dr. Carifi: Are the listening? So many people stop listening after they hear that they have cancer. It can be a devastating moment.

I try to repeat myself and constantly check to see if they are hearing what I have to say.

Dr. Carifi: No. Survivability rates are higher now. When I started practicing thirty years ago, some women refused to see the doctor because it wasn’t considered proper to expose your breast, even to a doctor. So they just died without any treatment. Now we have thirty years of research and know better the results of treatment options.

Focus: Has the treatment of Breast Cancer improved?

Dr. Carifi: We are still doing basically the same kinds of treatments, but we can do a lot less invasive procedures because we know, for instance, that the survivability rates for women who have a full mastectomy and those that have a partial are about the same.

So thirty years ago, or actually even more recently, we removed everything, but the research has shown us that the difference in choosing one treatment over another is the size of the lump and the personal preference of the patient.

Focus: If the treatment hasn’t really changed that much, what has made this form of cancer more survivable?

Dr. Carifi: Early detection. We’ve gone from women not wanting to expose their breast to mammograms that can see a tumor at the earliest possible stage of development.

I also believe that self-exams are valuable.

Nobody is asking these women to become cancer doctors, but to examine your breast at the same time of the month, every month, for any changes. If something has changed then go to your doctor. If it is nothing, oh well it cost us a little time, but if it is something then it could literally save your life.

Focus: What can women do to prevent getting breast cancer?

Dr. Carifi: Exercise and live a healthy lifestyle, but really the most important thing is getting mammograms and self-exams.

Twelve percent of women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. There doesn’t seem to be a reason one woman gets it and another doesn’t. Most of the patients I see are the first in their families to have the disease, and while the rates of breast cancer rise with age we still see young women that get it. The bottom line is that every woman should be doing self-exams monthly, looking for any changes, and they should see a doctor if they detect a change. I can’t emphasize enough how important early detection is.

Focus: What is important to surviving breast cancer besides the medical options?

Dr. Carifi: Having a positive attitude helps.

Women should seek out a doctor they can work with as part of a team fighting the disease. They should get all the facts, and I think be empowered by the choices they have. This is a terrible disease that is with you the rest of your life. After five years with no reoccurrence, the chances of the disease reoccurring goes down to almost nothing, but these women know that almost nothing isn’t the same as zero percent. So they have to stay positive. I also believe that support groups and getting involved are an important way to heal and move on.

Focus: What is important for you to say to the women who will read this?

Dr. Carifi: First, congratulations to the survivors and their families. They have gone through a lot physically, emotionally, and mentally. Secondly and most importantly, early detection, it is our nature to believe a tender spot or lump will go away; however, the longer you wait the more invasive the treatment and the lower your chance of surviving becomes. I hope that every women who reads this will get that message.

Focus: After all your years in practice, what still surprises you?

Dr. Carifi: How strong women are!

FOCUS Magazine winter haven october 2010

17

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business » business profile Oxygen Express 147 Ave. A, SE Winter Haven, Fl 33880 863-293-0000 www.oxygenexpress.com are proud that we can do heat molding and adjust braces onsite,” Romie added before continuing, “I am so glad to have Debbie here. Her experience is unmatched and the feedback from the community has been incredible.”

In Debbie and Romie’s business it is all about the fitting. In business it is all about the care clients or customers experience.

I think you’ll get the best care doing business with your neighbors. Support locally owned businesses, like Oxygen Express and the allnew Mastectomy Boutique.

Oxygen Express L ike most independent, locally owned businesses Romie Campbell and team at Oxygen Express, a medical equipment supplier in Winter Haven for over 5 years, competes on service. They provide quality service that really is personal, because the owners live here. In many cases like Romie, they grew up here, and they know they are caring for someone’s grandmother or father.

They also have to look for new revenue streams and new services to grow their businesses, and that is how Romie met Debbie Nelson.

Debbie Nelson, Certified Mastectomy / Orthotic Fitter, is native to Polk County, but followed her husband’s job to South Florida, where 21 years ago she started fitting mastectomy patience with prosthetic products. She is passionate about what she does and the care she gives each woman.

“The first thing I was told was that I had to be a people person. Everyone that comes to you is not feeling well, and you have to listen. I love what I do. It is important work.

A right fitting means the difference between being comfortable, or not. When customers leave our visit feeling uplifted is how I measure success,” Debbie said.

When her husband retired, they returned to

“ Written By: Brent Simmons

Polk County so they would be closer to their grandson. Debbie wanted to immediately offer her 21 years in the fitting business to the women of Polk County. She started by looking up some of the medical equipment businesses she remembered. Her quest took her to downtown Winter Haven, but the business she was looking for wasn’t there anymore. As she was leaving she saw Oxygen Express and went in to talk to Romie. He was looking for new ways to serve the community and she was looking for just such a place.

When customers leave our visit feeling uplifted is how I measure success.

”

What this means to us, especially Breast Cancer patients, diabetics, and folks in need of orthosis braces, is that Oxygen Express now does all this, as well their full line of medical equipment. Debbie’s compassion, professionalism and 21 years experience combined with Romie’s team’s dedication to providing great customer service means we all have a locally owned resource for these needs.

“Mastectomy prosthetic devices should be comfortable, natural and fashionable. A lot of the fitting is getting the weight and balance correct. A correctly fitting prosthesis should not feel heavy,” Debbie explained.

“It is the same with Diabetic Shoes and Orthosis Braces. The fit is critical, and we FOCUS Magazine winter haven october 2010

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Main Street Winter Haven Presents:

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TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW!!!

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october 2010 myfocustv.com

EVERY 1st Saturday of the Month Next Market October 2nd 8am - 1pm

Current Vendors Include Organic Produce Chutney Honey Herbs Soaps Plants Tea Art Baked Goods Market Sponsored by:

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october 2010 myfocustv.com

extra » city of winter haven

WINTER HAVEN FLORIDA CITY CELEBRATES GOVERNMENT WEEK T Written By: Donna Sheehan

he City of Winter Haven will be celebrating Florida City Government Week October 17-23, 2010. Florida City Government Week activities are being celebrated around the theme, “My City: I’m Part of It, I’m Proud of It”.

Because city government is the government closest to most citizens, and the one with the most direct daily impact upon its residents, municipal officials feel they have a responsibility to pass along their understanding of public services and their benefits.

“We are very excited about celebrating City Government,” said City Manager Dale Smith. “We believe that through displays and events, Winter Haven has a timely opportunity to help residents become more informed about the services of our City which, in turn, will lead to more knowledgeable citizen participation in the future. It is a responsibility that we take very seriously.” Various department displays will be available at the Winter Haven Public Library during the week. City staff will also provide water conservation activities at the Polk State College Fall Fest October 16 as a way to celebrate. They will include

children’s crafts and seed planting activities, and a showerhead exchange for City utility customers. (Call 298-5470 for more water conservation information.)

City employees throughout Winter Haven are proud of the quality services they provide our residents. It’s important to celebrate the successes in our community, and showcase how this City improves the quality of life for its residents and visitors. Visit a park, use the library, watch a sporting event or walk a trail. There is plenty to do in our community, and the City of Winter Haven makes this happen every day.

Cities across Florida will be celebrating City Government Week, sponsored by the Florida League of Cities (FLC), to showcase and celebrate cities and the many services they provide. The League is the official organization of the municipal governments in Florida, designed and established to meet and serve the needs of Florida’s municipal officials.

Looking for more information on the City and its services? Below is a list of City of Winter Haven Departments and phone numbers.

Important City Phone Numbers City Hall - 291-5600 Building/Permitting – 291-5695 Business Tax Office – 298-7656 Code Enforcement – 291-5697 Financial Services – 291-5667 Fire Services (Admin.) – 291-5677 Fire Prevention – 291-5693 Fire Station No.1 – 291-5665 Fire Station No.2 – 298-7881 Fire Station No.3 – 298-5212 Human Resources – 291-5650 Leisure Services – 291-5656 Natural Resources – 291-5881 Neighborhood Services – 298-4482 Police Services – 291-5858 Procurement Services – 291-5664 Public Services – 291-5756 Technical Services – 291-5850 Technology Services – 291-5679 Utility Account/Field Services – 291-5678 Utility Services – 291-5853 Winter Haven Airport – 298-4551 Winter Haven Public Library – 291-5880

A few minutes of your life could save it.

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FOCUS Magazine winter haven october 2010

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october 2010 myfocustv.com

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FOCUS Magazine winter haven october 2010

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extra » al reuchel

“

They can’t attack God because they don’t believe in Him, so they attack those who do believe.

”

smoking gun… they couldn’t find a single shred of evidence to suggest it was anything but a peaceful gathering of like-minded citizens. They called the guy organizing the event a crazed madman. They mocked the niece of Martin Luther King, Jr. for hijacking her Uncle’s legacy. They called it a political rally though the rally preached no party, nonaffiliation, no list of candidates, no signs of protest.

What has always disturbed the nonbelieving world is the concept of believing in something they can’t see, touch or feel.

The act of bowing on bended knee with hands folded is seen as an act of surrender to superstition. In truth, people of faith scare them. They can’t attack God because they don’t believe in Him, so they attack those who do believe.

Defending God?

I don’t think so!

Written By: Al Reuchel

Wow. I can’t believe I’m doing this. I can’t believe that in 2010 I would have to write a commentary defending God. Well, maybe not defending God but rather the right to have a belief in a God.

F

or some reason when the going gets tough it’s easy to blame the big guy for not paying attention. We ask ourselves if God is love then why does He allow so much suffering in the world? We like to place Him out there, somewhere, beyond the sky watching us “from a distance”, sorry Bette Midler. We think God is the cosmic roller of the dice and whatever happens… just happens. We think He is the ultimate crutch for those not strong enough or

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intelligent enough to figure out we are merely the evolution of primordial mud.

I bring this up because of a huge event that happened in Washington D.C. on August the 28th. It was a rally to restore honor and make a pledge to work harder at loving, living, and making sure the American dream, whatever that might be, is available to anyone and everyone. How could anyone take offense to that? How could anyone take offense to praying and believing that we

are all created with rights that come from God and not the government or other men?

These aren’t new ideas. Our forefathers used and believed these things to the core of their souls to write the constitution. It’s what makes this American experiment the longest running republic in the history of the world.

Many members of the media debated the size of the crowd, the hidden agendas many members of the media kept trying to uncover. They not only couldn’t find a

The scary part is that those of us who do believe, and I count myself among them, are the ones who are expected to crumble. We are chastised when we place a belief in an external creator above all other forces that move us. If we dare use faith as a reason for our actions, it’s considered a weakness rather than a strength. If those beliefs spill over into the political arena we are told we violate the separation of church and state, which, as you should know by now, is a concept rooted in keeping the government out of our religious expression and not our religious convictions out of government.

So it all came to a head out there on the Washington mall. Maybe it wasn’t as big as the 1963 speech of Dr. King? Maybe the crowd wasn’t as big as President Obama’s inauguration party? Maybe the anti-war rallies of the Vietnam area had more energy, more fervor? But like Norman Rockwell’s painting of the farmer and his wife kneeling to pray in their fields at harvest time, it sent an undeniable message that thousands, millions, tens of millions still believe that God is in control; that He still loves; that He’s not impressed or threatened by those who mock Him; and that one day every knee, not just those gathered in Washington, DC on August 28, 2010, will bow. Either in obedience to His call, or in fear of the judgment He will certainly bring.

Clearance Sale!

FOCUS Magazine winter haven october 2010

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dining & entertainment » dining profile kitchen, so I thought. ‘Why not open up a café and serve food during the day?” she explained. The demand for this young lady’s cooking has expanded to a robust catering business. “I think what most people like is that we don’t prepare everything in advance and just keep it heated up. We cook for a wedding the way the food is supposed to be cooked for the best taste. I go to all my catering events because if something does go wrong, I want to be there to fix it.”

This is a remarkable young lady and the food she prepares is incredible. We recommend that you stop by for lunch and grab a sandwich. We had the Roasted Delight and the Tuna Melt Down on this visit, and we were not disappointed. The roasted delight has all the manly taste you could want. Slow roasted top round beef, havarti cheese, caramelized onions, and just the right amount of horseradish combine to make this great sandwich.

With all the news we hear abut troubled teenagers and young people run-amok, Katie is a breath of fresh air. Inspired by her grandmother’s love of cooking, her mother’s business acumen, and watched over by her proud father, this business owner is as inspiring as her food. Drop by and grab a bite to eat – you will not be disappointed.

Katie’s Café to go I Written By: Brent Simmons

am inspired by the subject of this month’s dining profile, Katie’s Café to go. I am always inspired by food, but this is story about food and one young woman’s love of food. Her grandmother’s cooking inspired Chef Katie Horton, a lifelong resident of Winter Haven. “I still drive down just to spend the day and cook with her,” Katie told us.

Katie’s love for food led her to attend the Orlando Culinary Institute, Le Cordon Bleu right out of high school. On completion of her work there she came home and worked at Tanner’s. Her dream, however, inspired by her mother’s (Angie Horton of Spinal Restoration in Winter Haven) entrepreneurial spirit, was to have her own

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place. She started cooking for families and doing catering. When she needed a larger kitchen to work in, she found her present location and opened up the Café. As the name implies much of her work is prepared, “to go.”

I get an email every week from Katie with her dinner menu. All I have to do is give her a call and a freshly made, ready-to-eat dinner is waiting for me to carry home. It seems a perfect solution for busy families on the go that want more than fast food. Katie plans her meals with your family’s health in mind.

“I love food. I plan my nights and weekends around what and where I’m going to eat,” the 21-year-old said. “I started cooking for my family, and then another family. It got to be enough families that I needed a bigger

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entertainment » event calendar

winter haven

calendar of events

If you have an upcoming event and would like us to add it to our calendar of events please email the information to: editorial@floydpublications.com

Friday, Oct. 1, 2010

Monday, Oct. 4, 2010

» Poster Contest Deadline 9:00am-5:00pm 1099 Sate Road 60 E The 40th Annual Lake Wales Art Show Committee is pleased to announce a poster art contest for the 2011 Lake Wales Art Show event, to be held March 26 and 27, 2011.

» Art Classes 9:00am Lake Wales Arts Council, Inc. Six week session- $100 members, $125 nonmembers; five week session- $83 members, $105 non-members; Six week, two hour session- $65 members, $95 non-members.

» Food Drive 10:00am Fantasy of Flight Fantasy of Flight is pleased to offer visitors who donate non-perishable food items $5 off full-priced adult general admission for each donation. » Haunted Hanger Walking Tour 1:00pm Fantasy of Flight Free with admission and for all Annual Pass holders. » Butterflies at Bok 9:00am Bok Tower Gardens Butterflies at Bok October 1 thru 31, home to more than 50 identified varieites of butterflies.

Saturday, Oct. 2, 2010 » Fundraising Cello and Piano Recital 7:00pm-8:30pm Polk State College A recital by Derek Menchan (cello) and Laurent Boukobza (piano)will be performed in the Fine Arts Theatre. » Florida Expressions 9:00am Bok Tower Gardens “Florida Expressions” is a Polly Tetrault Art Exhibit.

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october 2010 myfocustv.com

Sunday, Oct. 10, 2010 » 7th Annual Hawks’ Scramble 1:00pm-7:00pm Santa Fe Catholic High School Calling all golfers! Player entry fee is $125.

Friday, Oct. 15, 2010

Tuesday, Oct. 5, 2010

» Reception for Exhibition of the Municipal Fine Arts 5:00pm-7:00pm Lake Wales Arts Council Refreshments and door prizes will be awarded.

» MS Excel 2007 6:00pm Travis Career Center This hands-on course is an introduction to Microsoft’s spreadsheet application, Excel.

» 23rd Annual Boy Scouts Classic 11:30am-6:00pm Cypresswood Golf and Country Club Help us celebrate 100 years of scouting in our 23rd Annual Golf Classic.

Wednesday, Oct. 6, 2010

» Achievement Academy’s 11th Annual “Chip-In” for Children Golf Tournament 11:00am-7:00pm

» Sunset & Symphony Fall Concert 6:00pm-9:00pm Bok Tower Gardens Advance tickets: $20; or $15 members. Day of event tickets: $25.

esh Salad Endless Baked Potato & Fr k for only $7.95. h your choice of soft drin » Beginner’s Knitting Class & Beginner’s Crochet Class 5:30pm-6:30pm Lake Wales Public Library The Lake Wales Public Library will host two four week fiber arts classes.

Breast Cancer. This will be a 5-card poker run with a cost of $15 (with passenger $25).

Call 863-398-3600 for more information.

Thursday, Oct. 7, 2010 » BeatleMania Now 7:30pm-9:00pm Tickets are on sale now- Premium seats Row A-D are $30. All others $25. Children $5.00 off each ticket.

Achievement Academy Through tournament play, sponsorship, and item donations, funds are raised to help children with special needs to receive vital services they need to make progress.

Saturday, Oct. 16, 2010 » Boktoberfest Plant Sale 8:00am-7:00pm Bok Tower Gardens

Thursday, Oct. 21, 2010 » Family Night Hike 7:00pm-8:30pm Adult and children ages 10 & up.

Reservations required. $5 per participant.

Call 863-676-1408 for more information.

Saturday, Oct. 23, 2010 » Red Balloon Team Paddle for Kids 3:00pm-8:00pm Our Children’s Academy & Rehab Build a team and raise money for special needs children!

Enjoy an AUSSIE-SIZED LUNCH COMBO at an

UNDERSIZED PRlCE!

Friday, Oct. 8, 2010 » “Fore the Kids” 20th Annual Gulf Tournament 11:00am-8:00pm Citrus Center Boys & Girls Clubs Inc. For more information call Kristie Renardson at 863-651-9580.

Saturday, Oct. 9, 2010 » All American Ride for the Ta-ta’s 8:00am-12:00pm Beverly Wright Memorial Foundation This is a fundraiser to raise money to fight

Winter Haven 170 Cypress Gardens Blvd 863-295-9800

Open for Lunch Mon-Fri 11am & Sun 11:30am

FOCUS Magazine winter haven october 2010

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