Access April 2020

TOP DOCTORS

Sp ec ia l Wel ln es s Is su e

Covid-19: Advice on Coping, Staying Healthy & Remaining Connected

More Than A Magazine!

ACCESSTHEBAY.COM April 2020

Plus: Teacher Tips, Fitness Must-Haves, Eating Clean & More!

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Just prior to the Coronavirus outbreak, The Alliance to the Medical Society of Mobile gathered at the home of Dr. Mike and Ashleigh O’Dowd to raise funds for Mobile’s Dumas Wesley Community Center, which offers transitional housing for homeless families, youth enrichment programs, summer camps, a food pantry, and a senior citizen outreach program.

Mainly comprised of physicians and their spouses, guests enjoyed wine tasting and a beautiful river view in what was to become one of the last local celebratory soireés.

By Hayley Hill Photos by Layla Lambert 4 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

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from the EDITOR...

J

APRIL 2020 / Volume 63 Number 56 Photo by Devin Ford Photography

ust like so many of you, we were reeling once COVID-19 hit. What to do? “Business as usual” seemed inappropriate (not to mention dangerous).

As luck would have it, we were working on an in-depth feature about the Bay's top doctors. With a knack for news, we quickly sprang into action to get updates from the front lines within our community. Armed with disinfecting wipes, a masked hair and makeup team, and six-foot stations set up in our office, we carried on in an effort to give these area professionals a voice (and get some answers). Interestingly, the overriding message at this point was one of hope and an overall belief that no one needs to suffer when it comes to healthcare, even amid a global pandemic. Babies will be born, troubling heart symptoms can (and should) be treated, we don’t have to live with horrible facial pain… the list goes on. These specialists are treating patients and taking precautions. However, many of these physicians are independent business owners, and (like me) are all in a bit of shock as to how we will even survive. Praying for a cure and a “back to normal” world, we are hopeful and would love nothing more than to be able to continue serving this community. With so many important stories to tell and events to host, I can't imagine not being able to do this. That said, the first priority is for everyone to practice extreme care so we can meet on the other side and tell your incredible stories that make up the very fabric of the Bay. Just don't forget about all the small businesses that have been there for you in the past. If we all do our part, we can ensure our doors stay open. Be safe, and if you enjoy ACCESS, please subscribe!

CONTENTS

4

PINK CARPET Take a peek at one of the Bay’s last soireés prior to Covid-19.

19

TOP DOCTOR SPECIAL The Bay Area boasts an abundance of highly skilled, dedicated, and selfless medical professionals and physicians. From infectious disease specialists to general practitioners, meet a few of our area’s local heroes.

60

STAYING HEALTHY & HAPPY NOW From natural anxiety solutions to eating clean, local experts are here to help. With many of us home and looking to maximize the time we have, ACCESS caught up with key players on simple solutions for creating healthy habits that stick.

78

LOCAL CULTURE With local public and private schools transitioning to online learning for the remainder of the school year, professional local insiders share tips for helping children cope amid the chaos.

82

COLUMNS Becoming Mobile, The LUSH Life, Self-Love & Skincare, Pink Table Talk, and Women & Wealth

the

STAFF...

FOUNDER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/ PUBLISHER Hayley Hill CREATIVE DIRECTOR/ STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Stevye Murray Armed with safe products and in custom masks made by our friend, Richard McGill Hamilton, hair and makeup team Courtney Matthews and Jessica Price took every safety precaution on our Top Doctor photo shoot.

Need a mask? Email Richard at MakingMasksMobile@gmail.com today.

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Manuscripts, photos and art material will be considered, but will be recieved only with the understanding that the magazine or its employees shall not be responsible for loss or damage, unless otherwise agreed to in writing. All contents @Hayley Hill Style Access, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is prohibited.

ACCESS mobile.baldwin is published 10 times per year. Subscription rate is $21.95 per year. All subscription inquiries should be mailed to P.O. Box 8586, Mobile, AL 36689-8586 or visit AccessTheBay.com. If the post office alerts us that your magazine is undeliverable, we have no further obligation unless we receive a corrected address within two years.

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COLUMNISTS Cart Blackwell Tim Burt Murphy D. Bishop II Charlotte Kilborn Carey Kristin Phillips

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Pandemic. Outbreak. PPE. You know the rest. All are relatively freshyet-constant words that have been added to our daily vocabularies as of late, and most are repetitive, all-absorbing, fear-inducing, and difficult to fathom. The front line coverage has grasped the world, leaving many area residents wondering just what's happening here on the Bay. Looking for assurances, guidance, and answers as to when will this end (and taking every precaution possible), we caught up with the Bay's top doctors spanning a variety of specialties to shed some light on just how amazing our local healthcare providers are.

Their consistent Coronavirus advice? Regardless of specialty, they all stand behind staying home. But amidst the chaos, they understand that during this crisis it is hard to know when you should call your doctor, as we are all being told to only call if it's an emergency. What constitutes an emergency, though? All agree that no one should suffer pain and concerning symptoms at this time. Babies will be born, accidents will happen, and symptoms ranging from pain to anxiety can (and should) be addressed.

Your healthcare is their top priority, and in order to keep you out of the ER, they've instituted safe measures regarding the Coronavirus and all that comes with it to aide you on your path to total health and wellness. If you're experiencing concerning symptoms, call! They’ll take it from there.

Keep in mind, many of our local doctors are also small business owners.

Some have had to shut their doors due to safety concerns and some are on the front lines. Either way (and as always), they want their patients safe and healthy. From infectious disease specialists to cosmetic favorites, we are beyond impressed with their credentials and patient-first practices.

After all, that's what makes them the top doctors on the Bay.

FROM THE FRONTLINES As the global pandemic of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) quickly closes in on our precious city, more and more questions emerge amid a growing concern for the health and welfare of our families, our communities, and ourselves.

We recently caught up with Alabama Medical Group’s infectious disease specialist, Dr. Patrick E. Nolan, to clarify some common questions concerning this terrifying time in our lives.

By Caroline Edmondson

20 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

Q&A on the Bay Patrick E. Nolan, M.D. In your opinion, how prepared or unprepared is the state of Alabama for a COVID-19 outbreak?

COVID-19 belongs to the Coronavirus family. What makes this strain different from others that have come before it?

“This is a new Coronavirus for humans. It is related to Coronaviruses that cause mild cold and flu-like illnesses but is more similar to the Coronavirus that caused SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome) in 2003. The name tells you what it’s like. The virus that causes COVID-19 is named SARS-CoV2 — more similar to SARS than to the cause of the common cold. SARS-CoV2 does not cause as severe a disease as the one in 2003, but it is more contagious.”

How and where did COVID-19 start?

“SARS-CoV2 first appeared in Wuhan China late in 2019 and may have originated in animal markets of that city. It is a Beta Coronavirus endemic in bats and can infect other animals including camels, cats, and cattle.”

What are the symptoms of COVID-19? How long does it take for symptoms to appear?

“COVID-19 is a flu-like illness. Fever, cough, and shortness of breath are the serious manifestations. Eighty percent of cases have little or no symptoms, 14 percent are classified as severe, and 5 percent are critical. The incubation period can be as long as 10 days, but most patients will have symptoms four to five days after exposure.”

Do you believe the U.S. had a delayed response to the virus or do you believe we’re getting ahead of it in a sense?

“Yes, the U.S. had a delayed response, especially in terms of the availability of diagnostic tests.

There were administrative mistakes and supply miscues but there are too many issues now to look back.”

“The state of Alabama is no different from our country as a whole in that our healthcare system could be overwhelmed if the epidemic peaks too quickly. The shutdown designed to maximize social distancing is necessary to ‘flatten the curve’ of the epidemic peak so we have enough ICU beds and ventilators for the 5 percent of critical cases we expect.”

There is a lot about the virus that’s unknown. What do we currently know about the virus and how it spreads?

“This virus replicates and sheds in the respiratory tract. Coughing and sneezing within six feet of another person appears to be the most contagious activity. Data also points to SARS-CoV2 staying alive on surfaces such as countertops, doorknobs, light switches, grocery cart handles, gym equipment, and the like for extended periods. In the hospital, aerosol generating events such as nebulizer treatments can increase the risk to healthcare workers.”

As a part of their mission and heritage for more than 74 years, the healthcare team at Alabama Medical Group has cared for those in our community regardless of illness or circumstance, and therefore will continue to do so during this time. It’s what they do — who they are. Their mission remains unchanged: to serve our community with compassionate care, dignity, medical expertise, and the comfort we all need during this time. Alabama Medical Group is taking every precaution to safeguard every patient (as well as the caregivers accompanying their patients), their physicians, and their staff.

Since there is currently no cure or vaccine, how do you treat patients who test positive for COVID-19?

“Current treatment is meticulous medical support and infection control. New therapeutics are being studied at an accelerated rate, but our first rule is to do no harm. Hopefully, we will have the ability to offer directed therapies soon.”

If you or a loved one are in need of medical care, please call 414.5900 or visit AlabamaMedicalGroup.com to schedule an appointment.

Your health is their first priority.

ALABAMA MEDICAL GROUP, P.C. 101 Memorial Hospital Drive Mobile, AL 251.414.5900 AlabamaMedicalGroup.com

Jon D. Simmons, M.D., F.A.C.S Trauma Surgeon

By Jessica Goolsby

H

igh-stress, high-intensity situations generally bring out the fight or flight response in people. Trauma Surgeon Jon D. Simmons, M.D., is a fighter. The Trauma, Burns, and Acute Care Surgery Division Chief for USA Health University Hospital, Dr. Simmons and trauma surgeons like him are a rare breed of very specialized surgeons. Trauma surgeons are board certified as general surgeons and as critical care (ICU) doctors. “Trauma surgeons complete a general surgery residency (five years) prior to completing a two-year fellowship in trauma and surgical critical care,” he explains. “Part of the fellowship includes one year of dedicated critical care, and the second year is dedicated to trauma surgery.”

Unique to the region, USA Health University Hospital has the only Level 1 Trauma Center on the Gulf Coast.

Collectively, the hospital serves a population of over 1.5 million. Additionally, they house the only regional Burn Center: the Arnold Luterman Burn Center. Both are consistently ranked at the top in the country in terms of outcomes.

Drawn to the intensity of the medical field from an early age, Dr. Simmons says as a student at Mississippi State he attended night classes to obtain his EMT certification so that he could get a job as an ambulance driver to help pay for school. “Working as an EMT allowed me to experience what it feels like to help someone in a way that is life-altering,” he says. “This experience inspired me to become a paramedic, and it was during this time that I decided to finish my degree in business and apply to medical school.” Having completed his general surgery residency at the University of Mississippi and his trauma fellowship at Johns Hopkins University, Dr. Simmons says it’s the training they receive as surgeons and ICU doctors that makes trauma surgeons so unique.

“It allows us to evaluate any patient with an injury (e.g. car wreck, gunshot wound, stabbing, fall, burn, etc.), operate on that patient, and provide the total ICU care,” he says. “My specialized training provides me with the expertise to operate on any part of the body.” It’s this cross-section of training that Dr. Simmons believes makes trauma surgeons “the most complete physicians.”

As an educator, Dr. Simmons has also earned many accolades, including being selected Teacher of the Year at the University of Mississippi in 2006, at Johns Hopkins in 2011, and at the University of South Alabama in 2012 and 2019. His efforts in research have earned him the James D. Hardy Research Award (2009); the American College of Surgeons Clowes Award (2014); the AAST Research and Education Foundation Award (2014); the American Heart Association Mentored Clinical & Population Research Award (2014); and the AAST Canizaro Award (2016). Clinically, he was awarded the UMMC All-Star Resident Award in 2006 (signifying top three, selected from more than 550 residents), and was selected as the University of Mississippi Resident of the Year in 2007 (selected from more than 550 residents).

As the Trauma Medical Director at USA Health University Hospital, Dr. Simmons says his goal is to serve the community in three key trauma-related areas: 1) providing excellent clinical care to trauma patients; 2) performing translational research that will improve trauma care 22 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

across the United States; and 3) providing community outreach in ways that make our community safer. “My favorite part of my job is definitely working hand-in-hand with the police department to reduce violence in our city,” he says. “This collaboration is very unique. Indeed, other large cities are trying to replicate some of our successes. Project Inspire and Project THRIVE are just a couple of examples of this unique collaboration.”

But Dr. Simmons’ efforts are not limited to our own borders, as he’s made several trips to Africa over the years to provide surgical care to rural regions that lack access to surgeons. “My first trip to Africa was in 2007 when I went to Ghana for three weeks,” he recalls. “I was shocked by the poverty, sickness, and suffering that I witnessed. There was not a surgeon within eight hours of driving and there were hundreds of people waiting on us to arrive. I had never experienced anything like that.”

Dr. Simmons says he and others operated day and night for those three weeks to the point of exhaustion. “Although I was completely exhausted when I left, I felt so complete as a person and humbled as a physician. This inspired me to take another trip two years later to Cameroon where I had the same experiences.”

Because of these trips, Dr. Simmons says his first priority as the Residency Program Director in 2011 at the University of South Alabama was to establish a yearly trip where medical students and residents could have the same experiences he had.

“I was very fortunate to be able to partner with the Christian Medical Ministry for South Alabama (CMMSA) to start a yearly trip to Rwanda,” he says. “The first trip was in 2012 and we have returned every year since then. Our team has grown significantly to now routinely include over 20 medical professionals, including 10 medical students, four surgery residents, and several other specialists.” His Golden Rule? “Treat all patients as if they are your family,” he says. For that reason (and so many more), we can only hope to find ourselves in Dr. Simmons’ care should we need it.

“Working as an EMT allowed me to experience what it feels like to help someone in a way that is life-altering.”

Q&A on the Bay Jon D. Simmons, M.D., F.A.C.S. “Chief of Trauma Surgery.” That sounds like there’s a little bit of adrenaline to it. What’s it like working in such high-intensity situations?

“It can be chaotic at times, but our trauma team is comprised of highly trained individuals that care for the most critically ill patients in the city every day and every night. The reason we consistently have some of the best outcomes in the country is because each member of our trauma team cares deeply about the patients and the responsibility we have to the community.

Where the trauma surgeon often gets the praise and glory for a good outcome, it truly takes everyone on the team to be their best, and our team is world class.”

What’s the typical amount of time you have in traumatic surgical situations to do what needs to be done in order to save someone?

“The unique thing about trauma surgeons is that we evaluate the patient immediately when they arrive, we perform the necessary operation, we are the ICU doctor after the operation, and we follow the patient closely until discharge.

Although we routinely start surgery within minutes of the patient’s arrival to our trauma center, every part of the process is equally important.”

Any advice for folks regarding AVOIDING situations that would bring them to your table?

“The most difficult situations that I deal with are when children shoot themselves on accident because they were playing with a parent’s gun.

Parents, please lock up your guns! This is such an easy thing to prevent.”

What constitutes a “trauma?” “‘Trauma’ is the Greek word for ‘wound.’

Therefore, anything that causes a wound is considered trauma. The most common patients that we treat as trauma surgeons are involved in car wrecks, gun shots, stab wounds, falls, lacerations, etc.”

What’s been the hardest part of your job so far?

“The worst part of my job is definitely telling a parent that their child has died. I take it so personal that it is difficult for me to do.”

What do you think about the Coronavirus (COVID-19)?

“It has been over 100 years since we have seen a virus cause an epidemic like we are expecting to occur in the near future. Because this virus is so deadly to individuals with medical problems and our healthy grandparents, we must do everything possible to ensure it does not spread as it has in China and Europe. This will mean that each of us must be overwhelmingly unselfish and make sacrifices to ensure our friends with medical problems and elderly family members survive. I am quite sure that this will be worse than anyone expects. One of the most unique things about working at an academic medical center with world-class scientists is this pandemic has caused many of us to divert our research focus to COVID-19.

Much of my research is in the area of a severe lung failure called ARDS, which is the cause of death in most COVID-19 patients, and several of our scientists also have this expertise. We have been meeting daily to create better diagnostic tests and medications to treat this novel virus. One particular drug that I have been working with to prevent ARDS after trauma and sepsis has a high potential for limiting the respiratory failure seen in patients with COVID-19 as well. We are currently working through the proper protocols to implement this experimental treatment. Others within our group are working hard to create more diagnostic testing to better help our local and global community.”

Departments of Surgery and Pharmacology, University of South Alabama College of Medicine 2451 University Hospital Dr. Suite 10-1 Mobile, AL 251.471.7992

Dr. Stephanie Grosz, M.D. Clinical Cardiologist and Cardiac Electrophysiologist

By Jessica Goolsby

D

r. Stephanie Grosz is well-versed in matters of the heart, having served as a clinical cardiologist and cardiac electrophysiologist for the last 23 years. On any given day you can find Dr. Grosz providing electrical device therapy, ablations for arrhythmias, and treating arrhythmias and electrical disorders of the heart, making her a pro on what makes us all tick — literally!

Having initially matched in a different specialty altogether during medical school, Dr. Grosz says it was her music background and the “beat” of the heart that really got her blood pumping. “My second month of training, the intern on the cardiac transplant service got the chicken pox, so I was pulled for the cardiology service,” she recalls. “That was the end for me.

Everything just made sense. I have a music background, and when I went into the EP lab to learn the electrical subspecialty, I could hear the patterns of the rhythms. It was very intuitive for me, and I fell in love with it.”

Having attended undergraduate school at Duke University, Dr. Grosz majored in public policy, graduating with honors. She later went back to Texas and attended the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston for medical school. She did an internal medicine residency there, followed by a chief residency year at the Houston VA Medical Center. She trained in cardiology and electrophysiology at the Texas Heart Institute in Houston. She is an Angier B. Duke Scholar, was the Chief Resident at Baylor College of Medicine, is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology, and a Fellow of the Heart Rhythm Society. “I learned as much as possible during those years,” Dr. Grosz says. “I learned how to be a doctor, cardiologist, and electrophysiologist. Of course, when you leave training, that’s when the real learning starts!”

Today, Dr. Grosz’s team at Rihner, Gupta & Grosz Cardiology, P.C. provides complete cardiac services including clinical cardiac management, interventional cardiology, peripheral vascular interventions, nuclear and pet stress testing, echocardiograms, and vascular imaging.

Dr. Grosz says the best part of her job is being able to help people recover and improve their quality of life.

24 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

Having that feminine touch doesn’t hurt, either, as her field is largely male dominated. “I bring a female’s perspective to the field of cardiology,” she says. “The women in my field are working with our counterparts to bridge the gap in differences of evaluation between men and women in cardiology.” But Dr. Grosz says remaining humble is key. “The human body does not always act like we want it to,” she says. “You can do a perfect operation, and the patient may not respond like you think they should. You can prescribe the perfect medication, and they still may not feel better. You have to keep working with those people and realize there is still an art to this, and we have to be partners with our patients. Open and clear communication is always best, and as physicians, we are the ultimate service industry. We provide care that can mean life or death, good health or bad. I try to remember how it would feel to be on the receiving end.”

The wife of Cardiovascular Surgeon Dr. Dimitris Kyriazis, Dr. Grosz says she and her husband found that practicing in Mobile was a great move for them to blossom as professionals and raise their two children, Alex and Amerisa. “We were able to have fulfilling careers and be present for our children,” she says. “They attended great schools and are on their way to becoming successful adults. It has been a great place for us.” Married for 27 years, Dr. Grosz jokes that even though they’re now empty nesters, they still have lots to talk about.

Dr. Grosz also makes ample time for charity work. “I think doctors are caregivers, and philanthropy is a natural extension of this sentiment,” she says, noting that her group sponsors its own scholarship (the BRGG Bright Future Scholarship), which offers $10,000 to a graduating Mobile County public high school senior interested in a career in healthcare. RGG has also supported the American Heart Association sponsoring area heart walks to help get funding for heart disease research. “My group has also helped to support my partner’s wife, Mrs. Sylvie Rihner, who has started her own 501c3 charity: The Dixie Rear Detachment,” Dr. Grosz says. “This organization has provided thousands of supplies to troops overseas, and

Dr. and Mrs. Rihner have been recognized as philanthropic stars in Mobile.”

Dr. Grosz also chaired the “Go Red for Women” campaign this year, having served on the steering committee last year to keep the movement going in the fight against heart disease in women – an event that has had tremendous community support. “I have also been involved in the Greek Fest Charity Gala for the past four years,” she says.

“This has been a labor of love on behalf of the Greek community to give back to our local community. We have formed our own 501c3 charity which sponsors a one-night fundraising event.” The charity has raised and distributed more than $400,000 to local charities like Penelope House, Learning Tree, Prichard Prep, The Nest, and Victory Health. Dr. Grosz’s practice has also contributed to St. Luke’s Episcopal School, Faith Academy, Baker High School, Habitat for Humanity, the Mobile Azalea Trail, Providence Foundation, Citronelle High School’s 4H Club, the Mobile County District Attorney, Little Sisters of the Poor, and the Inner City Mission over the years. “God has blessed me with a good mind, good health, a loving family, and a good job,” Dr. Grosz says. “I have great joy in my life, and I feel that working to share my good fortune with others is a must. It pulls you in many directions at times, but the rewards are great.”

Q&A on the Bay

“I think doctors are caregivers, and philanthropy is a natural extension of this sentiment.”

Dr. Stephanie Grosz, M.D. What symptoms should I watch for regarding heart disease?

“Know your body. If you have symptoms of shortness of breath, exertional intolerance, decreased stamina, even nausea and sweating that is unusual and persistent, go get looked at.

Women particularly do not always have classic symptoms.”

How does family history play into my diagnosis?

“Family history remains a significant risk factor for heart disease, especially if a family member had coronary disease at a young age, or a familial cholesterol disorder. If these risk factors are present, it would be wise to have a screening and risk factor modification earlier.”

What would you suggest I do to fight heart disease day to day?

“I would recommend daily healthy lifestyle choices to control risk factors. These include regular exercise, healthy diet and weight control, cessation of smoking and vaping, a simple check of daily blood pressure, and for middle-aged patients or those with familial problems, a check of cholesterol.”

I’m worried that my lifestyle choices could affect my heart.

What should be my ideal Body Mass Index (BMI)?

“A healthy BMI is 18.5 to 24.9. That is an ideal goal to strive for. Overweight is 25-29.9, and above 30 is considered obese, which is a harsh word, but this is the classification. It is the patients above 30 I worry about the most.”

Rihner, Gupta & Grosz Cardiology, P.C. 600 Providence Park Dr. East Mobile, AL 251. 634.1544

If I have a preexisting condition like cancer or blocked arteries, are there activities you’d suggest I avoid?

“I would recommend again to listen to your body and avoid exercise than may bother you, as well as follow the guidance of your personal physician regarding any specific restrictions you may have.”

Charla Evans, D.O. Family Medicine

By Caroline Edmondson

H

aving a primary care doctor you know and trust in your corner for all minor illnesses or just to check up on your health is a great way to ensure almost all of your healthcare needs are met. Caring for patients from age 5 all the way up to 105, Dr. Charla Evans of USA Health Hillcrest Primary Care has been providing patients with quality care for the past 26 years. Dr. Evans specializes in all things family care, including wellness, sports physicals, preventative care, geriatrics, and office gynecology, even performing minor surgeries on patients when needed.

Dr. Evans first became interested in the medical field during her freshman year of college at the University of Alabama. It was during this time her stepfather was diagnosed with cancer. After spending countless hours with him during his physician visits, her interest in medicine peaked, thus leading her to study Osteopathy at Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Evans completed a Family Medicine internship/residency at UAB, and an Obstetrical fellowship at UAB. “My training in OB-GYN enables me to attract a diverse group of patients,” Dr. Evans adds.

Living by the motto, “listen to your patient,” Dr. Evans strives to always be the strongest advocate for each person she treats. “Communication is key,” she says. “Every patient has a unique and interesting story to tell, and my job is to give them the space and time to tell it. This really creates an atmosphere that results in better patient outcomes and satisfaction,” she shares. When asked her favorite aspect of her job Dr. Evans laughs and says, “I love all components of my job! Coming to work and interacting with patients, their families, and my staff makes my day.”

Married to Dr. Kristen Fuller, a veterinarian here in Mobile, the two spend the majority of their time on their boat in Dauphin Island fishing inshore and offshore. “We have a CKC Spaniel named Madge, and a cat named Tinsley,” she shares. “Madge travels with us everywhere, including long trips that require flights!”

Dr. Evans says her favorite part about practicing on the Bay is the close-knit medical community the area boasts. “We have access to excellent hospitals and diagnostic facilities for all patients,” she says. “USA Health provides the best support system for my practice and results in a more satisfying career. I hope some time soon all patients will have access to healthcare and be able to team up with a provider that can help them get preventative care and know what they need to do to lead healthier lives,” Dr. Evans concludes.

26 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

Q&A on the Bay Charla Evans, D.O.

Define what a family practice physician is. What sort of medical issues do you cover?

“Family practice is a division of primary care that provides continuing and comprehensive healthcare for the individual and family across all ages, genders, diseases, and parts of the body.”

What can I be doing to stay healthy and prevent disease?

“Don’t smoke, exercise 150 minutes per week, maintain a healthy weight, wear your seatbelt, go to the dentist every six months, don’t text and drive, and get a check-up annually.”

What is your take on supplements/vitamins? Do they actually work and how would I know which ones are right for me?

“Always talk to your primary care provider about supplements before starting, as many on the market are not needed and may be harmful.”

USA Health Hillcrest Primary Care 1261 Hillcrest Rd. Suite C Mobile, AL 251.660.5940

“I love all components of my job! Coming to work and interacting with patients, their families, and my staff makes my day.”

James Koehler, M.D. Cosmetic Surgeon

By Caroline Edmondson

S

o you’re starting to age, noticing a sagging bit of skin here, a little bit of extra weight there, and just feeling a little insecure about your physical appearance overall.

Thankfully (and with too many effective cosmetic surgery options to list), most of our complaints can be resolved. Questions run in the thousands surrounding cosmetic procedures: “What procedure is right for me?” “Which doctor will offer me the care, professionalism, and results I’m looking for?” “How do I know where to start?” Enter Dr. James Koehler.

Here at ACCESS, we love Dr. Koehler, not only for his warm and welcoming personality, but also for the care and dedication he shows his patients and staff day-in and day-out. That said, it’s no surprise he has patients that span several states, each of which makes the long journey to Alabama for his services.

Dr. Koehler attended medical school at UAB and completed his residency in maxillofacial surgery there as well, followed by a year-long facial cosmetic surgery fellowship at UAB and a two-year fellowship in general cosmetic surgery in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Dr. Koehler started out performing cosmetic revision surgeries on patients who had suffered traumatic injuries and desired improvement to their appearance. “I enjoyed these cosmetic surgical procedures because patients were really excited about the prospects of this type of surgery,” Dr. Koehler says.

“Patients going into surgery with a positive mental attitude just makes the experience better for all of the people caring for them,” he adds, noting that’s what makes his job so great: every patient who elects surgery is genuinely excited for the outcome. “Seeing the smile on a patient’s face and hearing stories about how the procedure I performed for them made a profound impact on their life is my favorite part about what I do,” he says.

With more than 15 years-worth of success stories, Dr. Koehler has rounded up an impressive list of achievements and recognitions. He has served as the Adjunct Clinical Professor in the Department of Surgery at Oklahoma State University; was Co-director for training of Cosmetic Surgery Fellows; is a published author; was a Board Examiner for the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery; and currently serves on the Board of Trustees for both the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery and the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (beyond impressive, as cosmetic surgery is just that: surgery.

Credentials matter).

Of course, Dr. Koehler credits the success of his practice to his wonderful staff and the people he gets to work with every day.

“I have some pretty incredible people in my office that work hard to provide patients with the best quality care,” he boasts.

“We really listen to our patients and make sure that they are well-informed. We need our patients to feel comfortable communicating their needs with us so we can truly determine if what they want done is really best for them and also if it is achievable.”

Even with such a demanding job, Dr. Koehler takes the time to give back to the community he loves so much through organizations such as the Alabama Free Medical Clinic and Toys for Tots while also serving on mission trips to help those who don’t have access to quality care. When he’s not working, Dr. Koehler enjoys fishing, going to the beach with his family, and supporting his children at their sporting events.

28 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

Q&A on the Bay James Koehler, M.D.

What would you say are the top three services you offer? Why? “Tummy tucks, breast lifts, and breast augmentations are most popular, likely because we see many moms desiring to get their bodies back after having children. Facelifts are definitely one of the most popular procedures in patients in their 50s and 60s.”

What’s new in the breast augmentation world?

“Most surgeons place implants beneath the pectoralis muscle. Incision choices are through the armpit, through the nipple, under the breast, or through the belly button. My preferred incision is the inframammary incision (under the breast). There is certainly a nationwide trend for women to choose silicone gel implants over saline implants because of perceived benefits in the look and feel. There are now some more cohesive silicone implants that may provide benefits in retaining their shape and possibly less likelihood for silicone migration if an implant was to rupture.”

Implant illness has become a growing concern for those who have had a breast augmentation.

What is your take on this and how at risk are these women? Do you believe implants are safe?

“This is a complicated subject to answer simply. Yes, I do believe implants are safe or I wouldn’t still be placing them, but it would be unwise to believe that patients couldn’t have an adverse reaction to any drug or device.

Fortunately, current literature supports that the majority of women that get implants do not experience these adverse symptoms. There are clinical studies that show that certain patients with symptoms that can’t be explained by other disease processes may see improvement in their symptoms when their implants are removed. I have removed many implants for patients with ‘breast implant illness’ and many (but not all) patients see improvements. I would advise any patient that thinks that they have this to first rule out the possibility of other diseases or medical problems. After doing this, I would recommend a consultation with a surgeon familiar with treating this problem to fully understand their options and what to expect after having the surgery. Of course, I would be happy to meet and discuss those options.”

For those experiencing severe sagging skin on their face and neck, what do you suggest to treat this issue? What does recovery look like and will it help them gain their confidence back?

“The primary treatment for this problem would be a lower face and neck lift. Most people take pain medication for less than a week. Some patients can look quite good in as little as two weeks, but some will still have some bruising and swelling for three to four weeks.”

“I have some pretty incredible people in my office that work hard to provide patients with the best quality care. We really listen to our patients and make sure that they are

Eastern Shore Cosmetic Surgery 7541 Cipriano Ct. Fairhope, AL 251.973.6150

well-informed.”

Amy McCoy, M.D. Obstetrics and Gynecology

V

isiting your OBGYN can often times be uncomfortable, even stressful to some women. However, take one step into Dr. Amy McCoy’s office and you’re instantly at ease. Not only does Dr. McCoy have the kind of down-to-earth personality that makes you feel important, comfortable, and cared for all at the same time, but her office walls are filled with funny and motivational sayings guaranteed to give you the chuckle or courage you may need. “I’m a firm believer that if we don’t find humor in life, we would just be sad all the time,” she shares.

If you had asked Dr. McCoy at the start of her medical school stint at the University of South Alabama what she wanted to be, she’d have told you a pediatrician. In fact, she would tell you exactly, “anything but OBGYN.” But that mindset changed when she started her OBGYN rotation and saw the lack of treatment for common issues affecting women’s lives because they were presumably too “taboo” to even talk about.

“Women had questions that were going unanswered because they were too nervous to ask, and physicians weren’t asking,” she says. “I also noticed that women were making sure they were taking care of the health of their entire families, thus putting their own health on the back burner.” With a newfound fire lit inside, Dr. McCoy decided to continue down the OBGYN course to help women find their voice in healthcare. “I always tell women that if we don’t take care of ourselves, we can’t take care of others to the best of our ability,” she says.

Today, Dr. McCoy has the distinct privilege of caring for patients throughout all the milestones of their lives, from their first visit to their first baby, as they transition into menopause, and everything in between. “I love that I really get to know my patients and go through their lives with them,” she shares. “I don’t just see them for one procedure and then

30 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

never see them again. I also love the diversity of what we get to do. We have such a variety of things we see in clinic, but you never know when you show up to clinic if it will just be clinic or if you will also have three deliveries and an emergency surgery that day. In our field we have to be flexible and manage our time well,” she says.

There’s no doubt Dr. McCoy has excelled in her field when you look at her impressive list of achievements and recognitions. Throughout her time as a medical student and resident, Dr. McCoy received several awards recognizing her work, including: Best OBGYN Student, OBGYN Intern of the Year, Best Gynecology Oncology Resident, Best REI Resident, and the Minimally Invasive Surgery Award. She even won first place in the Hiram Mendenhall Resident Research Day. Of course, she has also been recognized as “Best HooHa Doctor” in the Nappie Awards (our particular favorite).

All told, Dr. McCoy says the most invaluable lesson she has learned during her 14 years in the field is to “always put yourself in the patient’s shoes.”

The lesson is one Dr. McCoy practices every day, as she’s not only a doctor, but also a mom, wife, friend, and more.

“As doctors, we go through the same feelings and experiences that most of our patients do,” she says. “We have either been through or been affected by a family member or friend who has experienced what our patients are experiencing. So, know we are there for you. I always tell my patients going though hard times that they don’t have to just call with medical questions. Call us to vent, yell, cry, or say it’s not fair to be going through those things,” Dr. McCoy says. “We want to be a shoulder to lean on and a place our patients feel comfortable to ask for answers. We might not always have them, but we will try our best to get them.”

Dress, $100 Dillard’s; 251.471.1551 Heels, $140 The Gallery Shoe Boutique; 251.34 4.4257

By Caroline Edmondson

Q&A on the Bay Amy McCoy, M.D.

At what age should I start bringing my daughter in for checkups?

“The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends having your first appointment with an OBGYN between ages 15 and 16. Your daughter will not need a pap smear at this age. At this visit we talk about what a normal period should be and see if your daughter is having a normal cycle. I also talk about appropriate hygiene and what products not to use. This first visit also helps establish a relationship between your teen and her physician. This way she will feel comfortable asking her physician when she has an issue or question instead of relying on Google or friends who mean well but might not give the best medical advice.”

What are my options for birth control? Which one do you suggest?

“There are multiple options for birth control.

These options include pills, patches, shots, rings, Nexplanon, and IUDs. There is not one I suggest to all people. I always tell patients if one type worked for everyone we would just have a birth control vending machine in the hallway and you wouldn’t need me. If you asked 10 of your friends which birth control they prefer, they would all give you a different answer.

Which birth control is best for you depends on multiple factors: What type will you actually adhere to? Can you remember to take a pill everyday? What medical issues do you have?

What symptoms do you experience during your cycle? What medicines do you take? What’s your weight? Do you have a family history of strokes and clots? These are just a few of MANY factors to consider. So, you need to talk to your physician about which type is best for you and make sure you give them a full medical history when you discuss it.”

What are your thoughts about the HPV vaccine? How does this vaccine work, and can you explain why older people might need another shot since the vaccine has improved?

“Studies have shown that up to 85 percent of people will get HPV at some point in their lives.

HPV is responsible for warts (which can be

disfiguring and destroy normal tissue), as well as cervical, vulvar, vaginal, anal, and head and neck cancers. People tend to think of it only causing genital issues, but oral and head and neck cancers are rising due to this virus. The vaccine protects against the worst strains of this virus. Insurance used to only cover the vaccine up to the age of 26, but now it is starting to get approved up to 45, which is great for those of us that didn’t qualify previously. The vaccine works the best if given before any exposure occurs. This is why it is recommended to give in preteens. My son has already received the vaccine and I will be giving it to my daughter and myself.”

What are your top treatments for women experiencing strong menopausal symptoms?

“Like birth control, hormones for menopause are going to depend on your family and personal medical history as well as whether you have a uterus or not. Menopausal hormones can come in the forms of pills, patches, creams, shots, rings, or pellets. I prefer longer acting options because it gives you more of a steady state and less ups and downs that we tend to see in pills. These are things absorbed through your subcutaneous tissue like patches, shots, or pellets. For those in whom hormones are not appropriate, there are some medicines that have been shown to decrease hot flashes significantly.

So, just because you can’t have hormones for a medical reason, do not assume we can’t help your symptoms.”

“We want to be a shoulder to lean on and a place our patients feel comfortable to ask for answers. We might not always have them, but we will try our best to get them.”

Bay Area Physicians for Women 3715 Dauphin Street Suite 3-b Mobile, AL 251.344.5900

Christopher Mullenix D.M.D, M.D. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

By Caroline Edmondson

H

aving been in his field for the past 17 years, Dr. Christopher Mullenix has made a positive impact on the lives of countless patients in our area. Dealing with complex issues like wisdom tooth removal, jaw surgery, facial trauma and reconstruction, cleft lip and palate, dental implants, and facial pathology, Dr. Mullenix’s main goal is to help patients achieve beautiful, functional smiles.

Having always loved the challenge the fields of medicine and dentistry presented him, Dr. Mullenix says his career path was obvious. He attended the University of Alabama for his undergraduate degree before moving on to UAB for dental school, medical school, and his residency.

From there, Dr. Mullenix opened his own clinic and has grown it by leaps and bounds over the past few years, adding new partners and specialty doctors to better serve his patients along the way.

Partner Dr. Aaron Wallendar specializes in craniofacial surgery and pediatric oral surgery, making him the only board-certified craniofacial surgeon on the Gulf Coast, and Dr. Michael Babston, a UAB-trained oral and facial surgeon, specializes in facial trauma and reconstruction. “Both are exceptionally trained and tireless workers who share our vision of giving the best, most compassionate care on the Gulf Coast,” Dr. Mullenix says, noting that the same traits apply to their talented staff. “Our staff is so wonderful because each of them knows how it feels to be a patient seeking help,” Dr. Mullenix says. “We navigate patients from first appointments to last visits with respect and empathy. Each patient is like family to us, and we truly love when patients are grateful for what we’ve done for them,” Dr. Mullenix shares.

Dr. Mullenix’s care and dedication extends much farther than the walls of his practice and touches the lives of hundreds more through his philanthropic work with Alabama Baptist Children’s Home, the Veterans Recovery Resource Center, Children’s Rehab Services of Alabama, Mitchell Cancer Institute, and Donated Dental Services of Alabama. “Philanthropy plays a huge role in our practice and in our lives,” he says. “At Mobile Oral Surgery we feel a responsibility to help those in need whether in the office or out. This is our community and we live and work here. We want to do our part to make it a better place,” he says.

When asked why he loves living and practicing on the Bay, Dr. Mullenix says, “Who wouldn’t want to live here? The people, the weather, the activities around us — they all make the Bay Area the perfect home for me and my family.” Dr. Mullenix and wife, Jamie, share four wonderful children together: Danielle, Marley, Miles, and their eldest son, Dalton, who proudly serves in the U.S. Army Infantry. “Living in Fairhope means spending time outside enjoying the beauty of our area,” Dr. Mullenix concludes.

32 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

Q&A on the Bay Christopher Mullenix D.M.D, M.D.

When should I have my wisdom teeth removed?

“Each patient is like family to us, and we truly love when patients are grateful for what we’ve done for them.”

“Most get them out electively as a teenager before they have caused pain or damage to soft tissue, hard tissue, and surrounding teeth.

However, we take them out at any age if they are symptomatic.”

How would you handle a traumatic facial situation for a young child?

What about an older patient?

“Growth is always a factor in a younger patient, and healing potential is always better in a younger patient. Principles of surgery and reconstruction can be similar, but techniques and timing can vary among age ranges. With any traumatic event it’s important to see a specialist as soon as possible so the appropriate treatment can begin, regardless of age.”

I have a cap/bond on my tooth from when I had a traumatic mouth injury as a child. Is there a point you recommend something more permanent?

“Absolutely. An implant is a great alternative to a poorly restored or heavily damaged natural tooth or as a replacement for a tooth that is already missing.”

What is bone grafting, and what problems does this help solve?

“Bone grafting is where bone is taken from one part of the body, or in most office cases, from a donor (either human or animal) and placed to repair missing or lost bone from either a trauma or lost/missing teeth. We do all types of grafting, from single teeth to facial and skull grafts.

Many can be done in the office, though some of the larger ones would require hospitalization.”

I have an extra tooth on the backside of my mouth.

Should I get this removed?

“Quite possibly it is an extra tooth or a tooth in the wrong position. It certainly may need to be removed before it causes more longterm problems. A quick evaluation is all that’s needed to truly determine the best course of action.”

Mobile Oral and Facial Surgery 715 Downtowner Blvd.

Mobile, AL 251.471.3381

Nancy O. Wood, M.D., F.A.A.P. Pediatrician

By Caroline Edmondson

T

here’s nothing in this world we love more than our children. They are the center of our world and their health is always a priority, which is why finding a pediatrician who places an extreme emphasis on the care of our children is so very important. Dr. Nancy Wood of Pediatric Associates of Mobile, PC, is one of those true gems of the medical world. Never taking the responsibility of her job lightly, Dr. Wood treats every child who walks through her door as if he or she were her own.

Having been in her field for 10 years, Dr. Wood says she can’t remember a time when she didn’t want to become a pediatrician.

After attending the University of Alabama for undergraduate school, Dr. Wood attended medical school at the University of South Alabama College of Medicine, and completed her residency with the Medical College of Georgia.

As mother to son William (5), and daughter Nancy (2), Dr. Wood works hand-in-hand with each little patient’s parents to ensure each child is receiving the care that best aligns with their parents’ desires. “I know that I cannot solve every problem that presents in my office, but what I can do is listen carefully and give the best advice I know to give,” she says. “It is my desire that parents and children feel heard and understood when they are in my office. I love it when I see children starting to take ownership of their health,” Dr. Wood shares, adding that the core of her philosophy is to do what is best for the child at all times.

“It may sound obvious, but in my profession, I am having to weigh many social, financial, and emotional factors when I am making a decision,” Dr. Wood says. “If I am ever ‘on the fence’ about a decision, I think in simple terms, ‘What is best for this child,’ and the answer typically becomes clear.”

Having grown up in the area, Dr. Wood adores everything there is to see and do here, especially being able to share it with her husband, Staples, and their children (both human and fur). “I love anything I can do with my children, from being on the water to watching sunsets over the Bay,” she says.

34 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

Q&A on the Bay Nancy O. Wood, M.D., F.A.A.P. “It is my desire that parents

What is your take on vaccinations for young children?

and children feel heard and

“I strongly recommend that all of my patients be vaccinated fully and according to the CDC schedule. The fact of the matter is that vaccines save lives. We are all very blessed to be living in a time where serious preventable childhood illness and death is not commonplace, and we have vaccines to thank for that.”

understood when they are in my office. I love it when I see children starting to take ownership of their

At what age should my child start seeing a pediatrician? At what age should they move on to an “adult” doctor?

health.”

“Some people have prenatal appointments, so the first visit to the pediatrician should be within the first week of life or in mom’s third trimester.

In my practice, we send patients to the ‘adult docs’ when they turn 19 or their first day of college, whichever comes first.”

We live in a world of fast food and junk food. How do you talk to your patients’ parents about navigating the world of nutrition and ensuring their children are eating healthy and well-balanced diets?

“Moderation is the name of the game. An occasional cupcake is fine; cupcakes after every meal will lead to a problem. Parents must model this behavior.”

At what age do you suggest parents talk to their children about puberty and changes in their bodies (and even sex)?

“It is never too early to teach children about their bodies. I recommend that parents answer questions about puberty and sex with an honest, age-appropriate answer. The 3rd grade is when I would encourage parents to start having the puberty conversation, and I think it is appropriate to share details of sex with children around the 6th grade. It is of utmost importance for every child to feel that they have a parent or a safe adult who will answer questions on these topics honestly and completely.”

How would you suggest parents talk to their children about the growing obsession with social media and ensuring they have a healthy relationship with it and are safe on the Internet?

“I am sure that we can all agree that there are positive aspects to social media/the Internet, but it can be dangerous and damaging. It is not enough for parents to monitor their children’s social media. They must be involved in a consistent and almost constant conversation about what is appropriate and uplifting and helpful use of social media/the Internet.

Again, this behavior must be modeled by parents.”

Pediatric Associates of Mobile 3719 Dauphin Street, Suite 102 Mobile, AL 251.344.1502

Kimberly Donnellan, M.D. Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon

By Caroline Edmondson

T

here’s no question the skin on our face is important to us, as it is often the first impression we give to those we meet.

Living on the Bay, our skin takes more of a beating than we think (especially in regard to sun damage), and we can’t forget that wonderful thing called “gravity” as we start to age, ultimately resulting in an unwanted loss of elasticity and firmness in our skin. Thankfully, Dr. Kimberly Donnellan, a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon at Ascension Providence, has just the thing to fix almost all your facial woes.

Certified in both facial plastic/reconstructive surgery and otolaryngology/head and neck surgery, Dr. Donnellan is an experienced physician in her field.

Having first started work as a speech pathologist specializing in the treatment of head and neck cancer patients to improve swallowing and speaking abilities, Dr. Donnellan inadvertently found her calling.

“I was fortunate to work alongside some very talented surgeons,” she says. “They encouraged me to continue my education and pursue becoming a doctor. Once I started my ENT residency, I became interested in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery.

It served as a combination of treating both cosmetic patients and cancer patients,” she shares.

Now, Dr. Donnellan performs cosmetic surgeries such as face and neck lifts, blepharoplasty, and rhinoplasties; and reconstructive surgeries including skin cancer excisions, scar revision, and congenital abnormalities. Alongside her team of estheticians and laser technologists, Dr. Donnellan also offers a wide selection of laser options to address pigmentation, scars, hair removal, fine lines, and wrinkles. Of course, this only covers a small fraction of the work Dr. Donnellan performs every day, improving the lives and self-confidence of hundreds of patients.

Of her nine years in the field, Dr. Donnellan says, “The team of people you choose to work with is extremely important. When the entire group is focused on excellence in patient care, the sky is the limit.” And Dr. Donnellan’s patient care speaks for itself. “Over the years, I have come to know many of my patients as if they were my family,” she says. “I pride myself in treating every patient as if they were a family member. I listen to their concerns and make recommendations based on my training. I am very focused on providing realistic expectations which leads to patient satisfaction,” she shares.

As if her work doesn’t deserve praise enough, Dr. Donnellan’s dedication to philanthropy and those suffering from cancer diagnoses does. Offering free yearly cancer screenings, free facials for cancer patients during head and neck cancer month, and serving as an active member in her church, Dr. Donnellan’s dedication to the communities she serves runs deep. When she isn’t working, she loves spending time with her husband Jon and their two dogs, either playing tennis or enjoying our beautiful beaches along the Gulf Coast. But wonderful doctor as she is, this comes with some skin care advice: “Please don’t forget to wear your sunscreen! The sun can be so brutal on our skin,” she says.

36 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

Dress: $139; Dillard’s, 251.471.1551.

Q&A on the Bay Kimberly Donnellan, M.D.

I’ve always had what I consider an “excessive” amount of unwanted hair on my face. Is this something that I would have lasered off or do you suggest dermaplaning?

“The team of people you choose to work with is extremely important. When the entire group is focused on excellence in patient care, the sky is the limit.”

“Laser hair removal is ideal for thicker hair on the skin in areas like the upper lip and chin area.

It often requires a series of treatments so that you are targeting hairs at all cycles of growth.

Dermaplaning is designed to target those fine hairs that involve the entire face. It is usually done every six to eight weeks before a special occasion where you want your makeup to go on smoothly.”

The idea of a chemical peel has always intimidated me, as the word “chemical” is something often used negatively. Are these peels actually safe? Do they use real chemicals? Are they painful?

“Chemical peels are very safe. There are hundreds of different formulas that contain different acids that are topically applied to the skin based on your skin care concerns. We individualize your peel to treat various complaints like pigment, acne, enlarged pores, scarring, and fine lines and wrinkles. You can tailor your peel to target various depths of the skin and therefore you can experience no downtime (peeling or redness) or moderate peeling. There is literally a chemical peel suited to almost every skin concern.”

Should I start working in monthly facials to help improve my skin?

“I like the idea of doing a monthly treatment to your skin to target cell turnover and collagen building. Facials are great, but I would mix it up with things like peels and microdermabrasions to get the best results.”

What are IPL and laser treatments? Have they been proven to help reduce the appearance of common skin concerns such as age spots, redness, wrinkles, etc.?

“IPL, or intense pulse light treatments, are designed to target pigment often caused by sun exposure. They can also help to reduce redness of the skin from conditions like rosacea or broken blood vessels. There are also other devices like Erb:Yag lasers that penetrate deeper into the skin and make dramatic improvements in fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, surgical scars, and pigmentary changes. These laser treatments often require about a week to allow the skin to heal. There is little pain involved, but some redness and peeling does occur.”

Skin and Laser Specialists Ascension Providence Hospital 6701 Airport Blvd B-123 Mobile, AL 251.660.3495

Dr. Caroline McGugin, M.D. Breast Surgical Oncologist

By Caroline Edmondson

I

n one way or another, breast cancer affects nearly all of us, whether personally or by association of a relative, coworker, or friend. After all, besides skin cancer, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among American women. As of January of this year, more than 3.5 million women have a history of breast cancer in the U.S, including those currently being treated. And this doesn’t even take in to account the large number of men who will be diagnosed with breast cancer (because yes, men can be diagnosed, too).

These statistics are no doubt alarming, but knowing the proper procedures to ensure breast cancer is caught in its early stages and having the reassurance of extremely skilled breast surgical oncologists to remove cancer masses can ease the fear of a cancer diagnosis. One such breast surgical oncologist is Dr. Caroline McGugin, who specializes in the surgical management of breast disorders including invasive breast cancer, DCIS, high-risk conditions, and benign breast disease. She performs surgeries daily, including lumpectomies, mastectomies, sentinel lymph node biopsies, axillary lymph node dissections, and targeted axillary dissections.

Dr. McGugin’s education is extensive, having first attended UT Southwestern for medical school, and then completing her residency for general surgery at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She then worked as a Harvard clinical fellow in Breast Surgical Oncology at the Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham & Women’s Hospital, and Dana Farber Cancer Institute. “It was during surgical training that I realized how much I enjoyed working with cancer patients,” she says. “I especially liked caring for women and really enjoyed the long-term patient interactions in breast surgery. This is rare in surgery, and something I really love about our field. I learned a great deal about the newest advances in breast cancer treatment, became actively involved in breast cancer research, and received specialized training in the latest surgical techniques, including oncoplastic surgery and nipple-sparing mastectomy. I am excited to be back in Alabama and offer these treatments to my patients along the Gulf Coast,” she shares.

Dr. McGugin understands how scary and anxiety-inducing a new cancer diagnosis can be for her patients, but she wants every one of them to know how important their wellbeing is to her, which is why she takes the time to really listen to her patients and ask them about their concerns. “I do my best to make sure my patients understand their disease and all the treatment options available to them, and I strive to include their perspective when personalizing their treatment plan,” she says. “As a woman, I relate to my patients, which I think is important when we’re talking about surgeries that may compromise how they feel about themselves as a woman. It’s important to me that we do everything we can to ensure they feel good about their body after treatment. I love taking care of my patients, and enjoy being there for them and their families throughout all phases of their treatment,” Dr. McGugin says.

Her parting advice to all women is to remember the importance of yearly screenings. And though most women start yearly mammograms at age 40, she suggests any woman who thinks she may be at high risk for breast cancer (for example, if it’s in her family history) should see her doctor for a formal risk assessment to see if she would benefit from genetic testing or supplementary screening.

58 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

Dress: $168; The Holiday, 251.342.4911.

Q&A on the Bay Dr. Caroline McGugin, M.D.

How will you know how much of my breast to take if I have breast cancer?

“The amount of breast tissue removed depends on the tumor size. If the tumor is large compared to your breast, there are multiple tumors, or diffuse calcifications throughout the breast, a lumpectomy may not be feasible and mastectomy may be recommended.”

When it comes to reconstructing my breast after a mastectomy, are breast implants my only option? I’m afraid they will look unnatural. Will they?

“Although nothing can completely replace the loss of your breast, breast reconstruction can recreate a symmetrical, natural-looking breast, which has been shown to improve body image and quality of life after mastectomy. Implant reconstruction is the most popular type of reconstruction, but it is not the only option.

Autologous tissue reconstruction uses your own tissue from another part of your body to reconstruct the breast. It is a more involved procedure with a longer recovery time, and not everyone is a candidate.”

I’ve heard a lot about Nipple Sparing Mastectomies. What exactly is this and will it help keep the natural look of my breasts after surgery?

“Nipple Sparing Mastectomy is a newer surgical technique where the breast tissue is removed while preserving the skin on the breast, nipple, and areola. Because the nipple is the focal point of the breast, saving it provides women with a reconstructed breast that is more like their own breast. Research shows that Nipple Sparing Mastectomies lead to better psychosocial wellbeing and sexual wellbeing.”

Can my cancer still come back even after I have my breast(s) removed?

“Most women diagnosed with breast cancer will never have a breast cancer recurrence. However, breast cancer can come back in the breast or chest, lymph nodes, or spread to other parts of the body — even after mastectomy. We now know that the risk of recurrence depends more on the biology of the breast cancer (size, grade, hormone receptor status, if there is cancer in the lymph nodes, etc.) than the extent of surgery.

This is why we follow our patients closely after treatment, so that in the unlikely event that the cancer comes back, we catch it early and can intervene quickly.”

“I do my best to make sure my patients understand their disease and all the treatment options available to them, and I strive to include their perspective when personalizing their treatment plan.”

Mobile Infirmary 3 Mobile Infirmary Cir. Mobile, AL 251.435.2400

Thomas Hospital 750 Morphy Ave. Fairhope, AL 251.928.2375

Valerie L. Vick, M.D., F.A.C.S. Ophthalmic Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon

By Jessica Goolsby

40 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

Dress, $108 Dillard’s; 251.471.1551 Shoes, $228 The Gallery Shoe Boutique; 251.34 4.4257

D

r. Valerie Vick of Premier Medical Group is a veteran in her field, having spent the last 15 years serving as a boardcertified Ophthalmologist specializing solely in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the eyelids (Blepharoplasty), brow lifts, tear ducts, and orbits. On the aesthetic side of her practice, Dr. Vick and her team offer a Laser and Skin Care Center that specializes in Botox and fillers, facials, laser procedures, microdermabrasion, and a slew of skin care products. But what drew her to this niche in the first place? “I enjoy seeing patient results,” she says. “My goal is to set realistic expectations for my patients, and at the same time, give them what they came to me for. A happy patient is truly why I do what I do.”

Having attended the University of Tennessee College of Medicine in Memphis, Tenn., Dr. Vick completed her residency at the University of Tennessee Department of Ophthalmology. Her training and expertise have led to her being featured in several local newspapers, on radio shows, and in television appearances. Through the course of her career, Dr. Vick says the most important lesson she has learned to date is “to treat people the way I would want to be treated. It is important to invest in others and be a part of your community. We all can benefit from it and it makes us better people all around,” she says.

And invest she does, offering her services in the philanthropy sector as often as possible. Whether it’s working with the Junior League of Mobile; assisting Distinguished Young Women - University of South Alabama; or guiding/inspiring USA medical students, you name it, and she’s a part of it. “Investing in these students and young women is important for our future growth of women in the industry,” she says. “Being a part of the Junior League keeps me involved with the community, and networking with other women is very important. Women can multitask… what can I say!?”

In her free time, Dr. Vick enjoys spending time with her three children, shopping, and enjoying the beautiful scenery and fantastic restaurants the Bay Area has to offer. When it comes to her favorite aspect of her job, Dr. Vick says that evaluating a patient’s problem(s) and creating a plan that will meet their needs and correct their issues is top priority. “I want people to take better care of themselves and listen to their bodies when things just don’t feel quite right,” she says. “See a physician and get a plan of action in regard to your overall health.”

Q&A on the Bay Valerie L. Vick, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Explain the process behind Blepharoplasty (reconstructive surgery of the eyelids).

“Eyelid surgery, technically called blepharoplasty, is a procedure to remove excess skin, usually along with some eyelid fat pads and muscle from the upper and lower eyelids.

Eyelid surgery can correct drooping upper lids and puffy bags below your eyes — features that make you look older and more tired than you feel and may even interfere with your vision. Blepharoplasty can be done alone, or in conjunction with other facial surgery procedures such as a facelift or brow lift. The advantage of having a cosmetic or corrective eyelid surgery performed by an oculoplastic specialist is that the physician can perform a full medical eye evaluation and then determine how much correction will be tolerated without over-correcting the eyelids. Upper eyelid blepharoplasty to correct dermatochalasis is one of the most frequently performed functional (as well as cosmetic) procedures by ophthalmic plastic surgeons. Additional wrinkle reduction by employing laser resurfacing or chemical peels can be used to address these changes as well.”

“It is important to invest in others and be a part of your community. We all can benefit from it and it makes us better people all around.”

Why would a person need a Blepharoplasty? Is it purely cosmetic or are there medical benefits as well?

“Blepharoplasty (Greek: blepharo = eyelid + plasty = to change) is one of the most common cosmetic procedures performed in facial plastic surgery. Our eyes are one of the first places that show signs of aging. As we age, we develop redundant skin on the eyelids which unfortunately makes us look tired.

Blepharoplasty (a simple outpatient procedure) can reverse these changes and restore a more youthful and rested appearance.”

Why do people typically get brow lifts?

“A forehead lift or ‘brow lift’ is a procedure that restores a more youthful, refreshed look to the area above the eyes. The procedure corrects drooping brows and improves the horizontal lines and furrows that can make a person appear angry, sad, or tired. A forehead lift is most commonly performed to smooth the forehead, raise the eyebrows, and minimize the visible effects of aging. However, it can also help people who have developed furrows or frown lines due to stress or muscle activity. Individuals with inherited conditions such as a low, heavy brows or furrowed lines above the nose can achieve a more alert and refreshed look with this procedure.”

PREMIER MEDICAL GROUP PremierMedicalGrp.com Mobile 2880 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL 251.473.1900 Daphne 1302 US Highway 98 Daphne, AL 251.410.9000

Christopher A. Park, MD Plastic Surgeon

By Caroline Edmondson

C

osmetic surgery has seen a dramatic increase in popularity in the past years, and with the growing ability to change features on our bodies that don’t make us feel our most confident, why wouldn’t we?

Whether you’re seeking the body you once had pre-baby, dealing with excessive skin from a dramatic weight loss, suffered from trauma such as cancer or deformities, or just looking to change a feature you were born with (but aren’t happy about), cosmetic surgery just might be for you.

Dr. Christopher Park and his associate, Dr. Ryan Rebowe, can help pinpoint the problems you are having, and offer surgical and even nonsurgical solutions.

A native Mobilian, Dr. Christopher Park says he first entered his field for a variety of reasons. As a self-proclaimed visual person, Dr. Park loves seeing his results (both short-term and long-term), making cosmetic surgery the perfect career for him. “In addition, plastic surgeons do an amazing number of things on all ages from infants to the elderly, from head to toe, from cosmetic to reconstructive,” he says. “All doctors help people, but my job is to make people happy with themselves and restore self-confidence. What a great thing to be able to do,” Dr. Park shares.

Dr. Park’s comprehensive education has allowed him to provide a wide variety of services ranging from cosmetic surgeries such as breast augmentation, tummy tucks, liposuction, and facial contouring, to nonsurgical treatments including injectables, lasers, hair restoration, and micro needling, just to name a few. But what many people might not know about cosmetic surgeons is that it is so much more than just “making someone prettier.” They can offer life-changing surgeries

for those who have suffered from various illnesses, diseases, and traumatic injuries. “Most people may not think about the reconstructive side of our specialty when they initially hear ‘plastic surgery,’ but this makes up a large portion of what we offer the Mobile Bay area,” he says. “In a broad description, these procedures help patients who have suffered from trauma or deformities. These services include reconstructive surgery for cancer patients, scar revisions, burn and wound care, and reconstructive surgery to the face, body, and upper and lower extremities,” he explains.

He’s also learned some important lessons along the way. “I have learned to be humble and to listen, not only to what people say, but trying to actually determine what they want based on how they act and react during a patient visit,” Dr. Park says.

“Communication is vital. As I tell patients every day, I am not here to make myself happy, I am here to make them happy.” This attitude is exactly the reason Dr. Park makes a fabulous plastic surgeon.

After all, it’s your body, and electing to alter it in any way should be entirely for the benefit of your own happiness!

42 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

Q&A on the Bay Christopher A. Park, MD

When would you recommend something like CoolSculpting vs. liposuction vs. tummy tuck for that after-baby pudge that won’t go away?

“All doctors help people, but my job is to make people happy with themselves and restore self-confidence.

What a great thing to be able to do.”

“This really is a simple answer. The key is knowing what the problem is. If some extra fat is the only problem, then nonsurgical lipolysis such as CoolSculpting or WarmSculpting will work unless there is a more significant amount of fat but with good skin tone. In that scenario I offer liposuction, as the nonsurgical modalities would require multiple treatments and/or long sessions of treatment. However, if extra skin is part of the problem, then removal of skin and ‘tucking’ is essential. Another problem in the abdomen in regard to ‘baby pudge’ is that the abdominal muscles may separate (diastasis) and may need to be corrected with an abdominoplasty. If the muscles are significant enough, then weight loss, sculpting, liposuction, or skin removal alone may even make the problem more obvious unless coupled with diastasis repair during a tummy tuck.”

I lost a staggering amount of weight after receiving weight loss surgery but have an excessive amount of loose and sagging skin. What surgery do you suggest to reduce the appearance of this loose skin?

“Excess skin must be removed and is done in a variety of ways. The most common procedures after massive weight loss is an abdominoplasty which may be standard or may require a circumferential procedure (belt lipectomy or lower body lift), breast lift with or without implants, brachioplasty or arm lift, and thighplasty or thigh lift.”

I have a very prominent scar on my leg from a childhood accident. It really takes away my self-confidence and I would love to be able to reduce the appearance of this. How can you help?

“When evaluating scars, the first question that I answer is whether it is best to start over completely by removing and repairing as well as possible. This is my most common answer, as I can usually improve contours and skin laxity at the same time. Other options include laser therapy, scar cream, injections, or dermabrasion depending on the findings.

If I want multiple procedures done, do you suggest I get them done all at the same time or would it be better to space out everything? Would getting it done at the same time mean less recovery for me?

“That is an excellent question and one I answer clearly when planning with a patient. There are many procedures that can be done together, such as breasts and abdomen (often called a mommy makeover); face, neck, eyes, and brows (facial rejuvenation); or buttocks and thighs. The key here is safety. I try to limit elective surgery to four to five hours and operate on things that are in the same vicinity at the same time. Doing too much at once is not a good or safe idea and I am always trying to make a safe and wise decision.”

The Park Clinic for Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery 3153 Dauphin St. Mobile, AL 251.445.8888

Kevin L. Pickett, D.M.D., M.S. Orthodontist

By Caroline Edmondson

B

races are just about as common as having teeth. More than 4 million people in the U.S. wear braces, of which 25 percent are adults.

Shocking, right? Not to Dr. Kevin Pickett, who for the past 20 years has been fitting children, teens, and adults alike with clear and metal braces, permanent and removable retainers, and Invisalign.

The world of teeth has always fascinated Dr. Pickett, who says he grew up loving to listen to his uncle’s stories about his job as a dentist. Following in his footsteps, Dr. Pickett attended the University of Alabama School of Dentistry, where he graduated with honors in 1997. He then received his Master of Science degree and his Certificate in Orthodontics from the University of Alabama School of Dentistry in 2000. “During my time there, I really learned the ins and outs of the world of dentistry, but specifically how to manage malocclusions (poor bite relationships), crowding, and many other orthodontic concerns,” Dr. Pickett shares.

Well-known in the Bay Area, Dr. Pickett has been recognized countless times for his tremendous work, dedication to his field, and the care he shows each patient who walks through his doors. His accolades include serving as president of the Alabama Orthodontic Alumni Foundation, being selected as the 2017 Glammy Award Winner for Best Orthodontist, receiving the 2016 Nappie Award for Best Orthodontist, and accomplishing publication as an author in the Journal of Dental Research and The Angle Orthodontist.

Aside from his work, what truly sets Dr. Pickett apart from others is his dedication to each patient’s orthodontic journey. “I believe in being honest with patients and parents and am always cognizant of limiting the time and financial investments in treatment,” he says. “My team and I truly want the best for them. It is important to me to spend quality time during my consults to answer questions and provide a thorough blueprint regarding the recommended treatment plan and my entire vision for their smile.

I genuinely want patients to see how much we value their decision to choose our practice,” he shares.

“Being a part of building a patient’s confidence and seeing their reaction once treatment is complete is the reason I chose this profession. Orthodontics is fun, rewarding, and a challenge that I really enjoy.”

True to his dedication for improving smiles, Dr. Pickett works closely with the Alabama Baptist Children’s Home in providing orthodontic treatments to children in their care at no charge. “I am very drawn to opportunities that allow me to help children that do not have their own families to address their orthodontic needs. I am honored to be an extension of the Christian environment that the Children’s Home provides.

Hopefully my team reinforces the love of Jesus to help encourage each child’s spiritual growth while giving them the confidence to smile.”

As an avid outdoorsman, Dr. Pickett spends his free time hunting, fishing, and boat riding with his family, and says the best part about living and practicing on the Bay is the overall sense of community here in Lower Alabama. “Southern hospitality is a real thing and I enjoy the culture it encourages on the Bay,” he says.

44 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

Q&A on the Bay Kevin L. Pickett, D.M.D., M.S.

At what age should I start considering braces for my child?

“The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial orthodontic evaluation around age seven because it is important to check for bite discrepancies, severe crowding, and eruption concerns. In most instances, I will not recommend Phase I/early treatment and will monitor the patient yearly until all of the permanent teeth have erupted. My goal is to avoid Phase I treatment whenever possible.”

What is the difference between traditional braces and Invisalign?

Which one do you suggest?

“Traditional braces (clear or metal) are a system of brackets and wires. Brackets are strategically placed on the teeth and the wires place a light force on the brackets, moving the teeth into a desired position. Invisalign essentially does the same thing; it just looks and feels different. Instead of brackets, Invisalign utilizes tooth-colored attachments in place of brackets and clear aligners that work like the wires of traditional braces. In many cases, treatment time is significantly reduced because of Invisalign’s predictability of computergenerated movements. I enjoy working with both treatment options but believe that patients benefit most by choosing the treatment that best fits their lifestyle. Invisalign only works if worn consistently which requires patient dedication, while braces are always working.”

I had braces when I was younger but always forgot to wear my retainer once I had them removed. As an adult, I am noticing my teeth are shifting and looking slightly crooked. Do you suggest I get braces again as an adult?

“Unfortunately, you are not alone in this. The potential for relapse is why I am a firm believer in permanent retainers! Both conventional braces and Invisalign are ideal treatment options for relapse; however, many adults gravitate towards Invisalign because they do not want to revisit braces.”

Braces are expensive. How can they fit our budget?

“Any orthodontic treatment is both a time and financial investment. However, I believe in maintaining an exceptional experience and standard of care while offering custom payment plans to each patient/family to make the burden less intimidating month-to-month.

This means giving the patient control of their down payment and allowing them to extended monthly payments to fit their budget.”

“I believe in being honest with patients and parents and am always cognizant of limiting the time and financial investments in

Pickett Orthodontics 6611 Wall Street Mobile, AL 251.607.0110

treatment.”

Anita Smith Kemmerly, M.D. Endocrinology

By Caroline Edmondson

D

id you know around 1.5 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes every year? Or that an estimated 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disease? Did you know women are five to eight times more likely than men to develop a thyroid problem? Now, these statistics aren’t here to scare you. In fact, they are to show you just how important an endocrinologist’s job is.

A career in endocrinology has always fascinated Dr. Kemmerly, who got her start in the field 23 years ago. “An endocrinologist’s job is quite interesting,” she says. “Each physician has the ability to develop long-term relationships with his or her patients since the type of work we do involves the lifelong management of symptoms.”

Dr. Kemmerly attended medical school at Louisiana State Medical Center Shreveport, followed by a residency at the Medical College of Virginia and fellowship at Ochsner Clinic. Of her schooling, Dr. Kemmerly says she learned a great deal about the importance of patience and hard work, and to always share your thoughts and ideas with those around you.

This lesson has carried over well into her career as her hard work, dedication, and patience has led Dr. Kemmerly to build a successful practice in the Bay Area. In fact, Dr. Kemmerly was one of the first female physicians in Mobile, Ala., and even the first woman in her internal medicine multi-specialty group. She now proudly serves as the head of the Diabetes Resource Center, which she says has been “an absolute joy and privilege.”

Dr. Kemmerly says her favorite part of her job is interacting with her fellow physicians and patients every day. “I would find it boring sitting in an office all day,” she jokes. “I just love that human interaction and the feeling of knowing I’m helping someone. When a patient comes back and tells me how much better they feel it makes me feel like I have truly done something,” she says.

Philanthropy also plays a large role in Dr. Kemmerly’s life and career, as she serves on the board of the Low Vision Center, a non-profit institution here in Mobile. “Many people with a diabetes diagnosis also have vision impairment, so this goes hand-in-hand with my work as a physician,” she says. “My husband and I also support the Ozanam Charitable Pharmacy which supplies medicine for those who can’t afford it.”

Dr. Kemmerly loves just about everything when it comes to living and practicing on the Bay, but says some of her absolute favorite aspects are the friendly people and the proximity to the water.

“I love taking long walks along the beach and finishing the day with dinner at Sunset Point watching the sun set over the Bay.”

46 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

Q&A on the Bay Anita Smith Kemmerly, M.D. “I just love that human interaction and the feeling of knowing I’m helping

At what point does severe weight gain and/or lack of ability to lose weight become a medical issue that needs to be treated rather than just a shift in diet and exercise?

someone. When a patient comes back and tells me how much better they feel it makes me feel like I have

“When BMI is 30 or above, measures need to be taken, especially if there are other comorbidities such as diabetes and hypertension.”

truly done something.”

My family has a history of thyroid-related illnesses and issues. Should I be concerned about developing one of these diseases? Is there a screening that could test how likely I am to develop one of these?

“Thyroid disease is a common disease that does run in families. Screening tests are easy. The test is a TSH blood test. Anyone with a strong family history should have this done once a year and have their thyroid examined by a physician.

Risk depends on how many family members have thyroid disease and other environmental factors.”

What are some tips for managing diabetes at home?

“Diet and exercise. In general, women should consume 1500 to 1800 calories a day and 45 grams of carbohydrates per meal and need 30 minutes of aerobic exercise at least three times a week (better if daily).”

Is there anything I can do to help speed up my metabolism?

“It has been shown increasing your heart rate for 30 minutes to 80 percent maximum capacity three times a week can speed metabolism. Walk, walk, walk, ladies!”

How do you believe the recent spark of COVID-19 affects your patients? What is your concern?

“They are stressed. We all are. Individuals with uncontrolled diabetes or adrenal insufficiency are at an increased risk for a serious case of the virus and should be extra careful.”

Diagnostic & Medical Clinic Infirmary Health 1720 Springhill Ave Mobile, AL. 251.435.1200 DiagnosticAndMedical.com

Neil B. Billeaud, M.D. Neurology, Epilepsy, & Sleep Medicine

By Caroline Edmondson

A

Photo By Melinda Mercer

sk Dr. Neil B. Billeaud (Alabama Medical Group’s newest physician, who’s an expert in the areas of neurology, epilepsy, and sleep medicine) how important a good night’s sleep really is for overall health, and he’ll tell it to you straight: “It’s the single most important controllable factor.” So why do people take the importance of a healthy sleep routine lightly? They’ll most likely tell you that they’re fine, or they have more important issues to worry about.

But what they may not know is that the lack of care and effort put into ensuring you get a full night’s rest is actually very harmful to the overall function of your body. Studying and treating sleep disorders, seizures, and other issues pertaining to the nervous system is exactly what Dr. Billeaud has spent the last 20 years of his life perfecting.

Having always been fascinated by the brain, Dr. Billeaud started out as an electrical engineering student at LSU. After completing his engineering degree, he came to realize that the brain and nervous system were the most sophisticated electrical system of all, thus leading him to a career in the medical field. After attending medical school at LSU, Dr. Billeaud completed a residency, fellowships, and served five years as a faculty member of neurology at UAB in Birmingham. “I’ve taught many residents, fellows, medical students, and EEG techs over the years, and they’ve often told me I was the best teacher they had,” he proudly shares.

Dr. Billeaud truly stands out in his field thanks to the many years of experience he has received taking care of patients — many of those in neurological ICUs, as well as complex medical cases at both UAB and Ochsner Medical Center. Though new to the Bay Area (having just moved here from Louisiana), Dr. Billeaud says he is more than familiar with the hospitality we have to offer and looks forward to getting to know his new patients, citing that good communication is everything. “The answers to a person’s medical problems are just as likely to be found from listening to him or her as from what’s in a textbook or journal,” he says. “A good physician needs to be able to balance the two really well.”

Charity work and spreading lifestyle awareness are added focuses of Dr. Billeaud. His favorite charity is The Charlie Foundation for Ketogenic Therapies, which was founded in 1994 to provide information about diet therapies for those suffering from Epilepsy, other neurological disorders, and select cancers. “More generally, I support all efforts of those organizations that encourage people — especially young people — to get back to nature and become more involved with traditional ancestral diets and activities,” he says. “I wish people realized how much control they had over their own health and vitality… that they don’t really need to depend on doctors and drugs as much as they think if they pay more attention to diet and lifestyle issues.”

48 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

Excellent care with a compassionate touch

We are proud to recognize Charla Evans, D.O., a family medicine physician at USA Health Hillcrest Primary Care, for being named one of the Bay’s Best Doctors. Known for her compassion, Dr. Evans has a long history of providing comprehensive care to patients of all ages. To make an appointment at USA Health Hillcrest Primary Care, call 251-660-5940.

Q&A on the Bay Neil B. Billeaud, M.D.

At what point should my inability to fall asleep and stay asleep be checked out by a doctor?

“If you experience difficulty falling asleep, difficulty staying asleep, loud snoring or waking up gasping for air, feeling tired in the mornings, sleepwalking, or unexplained injuries during sleep, it’s time to call a doctor.”

What are some of the best ways to control the symptoms of my epilepsy?

“This must be discussed with your doctor, but usually includes some combination of seizure medications, sleep, stress reductions, diet, and other lifestyle interventions.”

Am I likely to have more seizures if I don’t get medication or other treatments?

“If you have been prescribed medications for seizures, it is very important to take them regularly as directed by your physician. Even one missed dose can result in breakthrough seizures in many patients.”

“The answers to a person’s

I struggle with insomnia nightly.

What are some ways I can help combat this at home? In what ways can you help me?

medical problems are just as likely to be found from listening to him or her as

“Having a regular sleep routine can help tremendously if you make it a habit. Limiting blue light from phones, TVs, and computer screens at night is very important to do as often as possible. Having a regular waking time and going outside early to experience a.m. sunlight for a few minutes also helps to reset the body’s internal clock.”

from what’s in a textbook or journal.”

Alabama Medical Group, P.C. 101 Memorial Hospital Drive, Building 3 Mobile, AL 251.414.5900 AlabamaMedicalGroup.com

50 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

7

THE BAY’S BEST ORAL SURGEONS

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USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute (MCI) Kilborn Clinic opened its doors in July 2017. Today, MCI Kilborn Clinic is still the only cancer center in Fairhope that provides all services under one roof and it continues to expand exclusive patient services for those living on the Eastern Shore, specifically enhanced care for breast cancer and women’s cancers.

ONE LOCATION FOR CANCER CARE MCI Kilborn Clinic offers medical oncology, radiation oncology and surgical oncology, as well as a host of other patient-centered services.

With a complete circle of breast cancer care, patients have the ability to conveniently flow from one treatment to another without ever leaving the building. In a spa-like atmosphere, chemotherapy treatments are administered on-site in individual spaces as well as private rooms.

Radiation oncology at MCI Kilborn Clinic has been enhanced with the only 4-D CT scanner on the Eastern Shore. The 4-D CT scanner is the next step in imaging and treatment planning. This advanced imaging method makes CT scans much faster and more accurate than ever before.

“I chose to specialize in radiation oncology as it was a rapidly advancing field that offered an extremely effective cancer treatment that is well tolerated by patients,” said William Hixson, M.D., a radiation oncologist at MCI Kilborn Clinic. “Innovations in radiation treatment delivery and schedules allow our breast cancer patients to undergo more limited surgery and receive their treatments over William Hixson, M.D. a much shorter period of time while still protecting critical organs such as the heart. I enjoy being able to take the time to explain things to my patients and hearing them say how much better they feel with a better understanding of what they are facing.”

A MULTI-DISCIPLINARY TEAM FOR CANCER CARE USA Health MCI’s multi-disciplinary oncology team includes regionally and nationally recognized clinical specialists for breast cancer care including fellowship-trained breast radiologists and surgical oncologists, plastic surgeons, pathologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists and patient navigators who collaborate on individualized cancer care plans. All of these specialties together under one roof at MCI Kilborn Clinic create a comprehensive treatment plan for each patient’s specific cancer that means better, more synchronized care and optimal outcomes.

“Through my fellowship training at MD Anderson, I offer a unique perspective to optimize care for cancer patients in our region,” said J. Spencer Liles, M.D., a board-certified surgical oncologist specializing in breast cancer at MCI, who also serves as an assistant professor of surgery with the USA College of Medicine. “My goal is to ensure that women in our area can get optimal oncology care without leaving the Gulf Coast. As part of our multi-disciplinary oncology team, I help to provide valued input regarding surgical care in order to offer the highest standard of care to patients of our region.”

RESEARCH AND EDUCATION ARE KEY FOR CANCER CARE The Mitchell Cancer Institute places a heavy emphasis on research and education when it comes to cancer. MCI is the only Phase 1 clinical trial facility in the region. Phase 1 clinical trials are the first step in testing a new treatment and usually include only a small number of patients who have not been helped by conventional treatments.

Daniel Cameron, M.D. 52 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

“There is every reason to be optimistic about the future as our understanding and treatment options rapidly advance. Cancer survival rates are improving every year,” said Daniel Cameron, M.D. “In the United States, there has been an increase in the

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“Take time for family and friends.

None of us are promised tomorrow.

Patients have never wished they had worked harder, made more money or devoted less time to family. I have met so many special individuals over the years and consider them not only patients but friends.”

— Daniel Cameron, M.D.

5-year relative survival rate between people diagnosed with cancer in 1975-1977 (48.9%), and people diagnosed with cancer in 20072013 (69.2%); these figures coincide with a 20% decrease in cancer mortality from 1950 to 2014. There were 11 new drugs to treat cancer in 2019 alone.”

Dr. Liles recently participated in the Lumicell Phase 1 surgery clinical trial for breast cancer treatment. MCI was one of only 17 participating academic research centers in the country selected for the trial among leading institutions such as Cleveland Clinic and MD Anderson.

The Lumicell trial was designed to identify residual cancer in the tumor bed of female breast cancer patients. Dr. Liles is still actively participating in the Lumicell clinical trial, which is currently in Phase 3.

Screening and genetic testing are critical components in the early detection and prevention of breast and women’s cancers. MCI Kilborn Clinic works closely with USA Health’s Breast Cancer Center to provide patients mammogram screenings with same-day results enabling them to go from screening mammogram and diagnostic imaging to biopsy and surgery consultation all in one convenient visit.

With the only board-certified genetic counselor in the area, MCI’s genetic screening, testing and counseling provides guidance for patients and their families to evaluate the genetic risk factors for cancer and the potential impact on a patient’s treatment.

J. Spencer Liles, M.D.

“Breast cancer is at the top of genetic screening needs because there are many known mutations that can predispose a person to developing breast cancer.

We work closely with our genetic counselor to identify and then test those patients that may have a mutation,” said Dr. Liles. “In oncology, social risk factors contribute to tumor biology, but genetics is critical.”

Dr. Hixson added, “It is important for people to know what and when screenings can be done to help detect cancer earlier, and if their family history would guide us to do screening tests sooner. We now know so much more about the genes associated with increased risk of 54 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

cancer and can test for particular genes allowing people affected by cancer to proactively help their siblings, children and grandchildren.”

“It is also important for patients to know what they can do to help prevent cancer such as diet, exercise and smoking cessation,” said Dr. Hixson.

Many of the physicians at MCI have a personal connection to cancer, fueling their passion to help their patients even more. Medical oncologist, Dr. Cameron explains: “After the loss of my mother to metastatic breast cancer at age 49 and my father to lung cancer, I made the decision to redirect my passion and become an oncologist.

I have a special interest in translational research to move discoveries quicker from the bench to the bedside, and I am especially interested in advances pertaining to breast cancer.”

For a consultation or second opinion, call 251.445.8421.

MCI’S RESOURCES FOR PATIENTS • Oncology Nurse Navigator – assists patients throughout

their cancer treatment and care plan with clinical resources and coordination of care

• Lay Navigator – works with patients to connect them to

non-clinical services including physical therapy, financial assistance, support groups, fertility specialists prior to treatment, and other daily needs such as transportation, wigs, scarves and custom-fitted bras

• Mental Health Support – access to a mental health

counselor and stress screening to assess the need for crisis intervention and other psychosocial needs to improve well-being, alleviate distress and enhance coping skills

• Nutrition – two full-time dietitians on staff assist patients

with their individual nutrition needs throughout treatment

• Specialty Pharmacy – an accredited specialty pharmacy

for oral oncolytics led by an oncology-trained Doctor of Pharmacy who educates, dispenses and monitors patients throughout the course of treatment

Neurology

Psychiatry

While the field of neurology seems self-explanatory, we wanted to know more. Besides the obvious treatment of disorders including epilepsy, strokes, migraines, Alzheimer’s, and other dementias, neurologists specialize in the entire nervous system, which is made up of the brain and spinal cord (meaning they also treat diseases like Parkinson’s and MLS).

And let’s not forget traumatic brain injuries, which are estimated to occur in 60 million people annually.

So when should you call a neurologist? If you have headaches, dizziness, numbness/tingling, weakness, movement problems, vision difficulties, memory loss, speech difficulties, or neck and back “My patients have problems, they might be able to help you find changed how relief. Our area is lucky to I see the world.” have the Coastal Neuro- — Timothy Hecker, M.D. logical Institute, with offices in Mobile, Fairhope, Spanish Fort, and Foley. Dr. Timothy Hecker shares, “My patients have changed how I see the world. I’m privileged to share their joys and triumphs, as well as their anxieties and fears. My job requires me to make sense of a person’s symptoms. Letting them know you are invested and are going to help them navigate their issues is very healing to a patient.”

It can be scary, we know. When it comes to our mental health, the thought of sharing our most intimate thoughts and issues with a stranger — things we may not have even told our closest loved ones — well, it’s hard. But please believe us, you’re not alone in whatever you’re feeling. Psychiatrists attend four years of medical school followed by four years of psychiatric residency, enabling them to diagnose and prescribe medications and treatments for the entire gamut of mental illnesses, from anxiety and depression to more complex diseases like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and addic- The first step tion (in all its forms). toward feeling So when should you seek better is help from a psychiatrist? making that Some people will have appointment. sudden problems like panic attacks, hallucinations, or thoughts of self-harm. For others, long-term feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or anxiety may interfere with daily functioning, making everyday life feel out of control. Whatever it is, the first step toward feeling better is making that appointment.

With locations in Mobile and Fairhope, Comprehensive MedPsych Systems is the proud home to Dr. Bayani Alberto Y. Abordo’s practice, where he works with a team of other board-certified psychiatrists, neuropsychologists, and psychotherapists offering a wide range of mental health services with an emphasis on integrity and compassion.

Rheumatology Everyone had a grandma or great aunt who could tell rain was coming because her knee was “acting up.” As we age, it inevitably comes with the territory. But rheumatology is so much broader than arthritic joints. Picture your entire musculoskeletal system and everything that can go wrong with it. Rheumatologists are trained to help you with whatever problems you may be experiencing. With more than 120 types of rheumatologic diseases (including back and neck pain disorders, osteoporosis, osteopenia, tendinitis, and sciatica), what may surprise you is that autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, fibromyalgia, and Lyme disease are also part of that group. Some of these diseases can be very hard to diagnose since the pain comes and goes and also moves around the body, leaving many sick people undiagnosed, or worse: told there’s nothing wrong with them.

If you’re experiencing long-term joint pain from injury or disease or if your joint pain migrates around your body and is accompanied by extreme tiredness or fever, there is help available.

Dr. Thomas McGee, a rheumatologist at the Diagnostic & Medical Clinic for Infirmary Health, is known for his compassion and his innovative approach to caring for his patients.

Thomas McGee, M.D. Timothy Hecker, M.D.

Diagnostic & Medical Clinic Coastal Neurological Institute Mobile/Fairhope/Spanish Fort/Foley 1.800.628.5956 WhyCNI.com

Bayani Alberto Y. Abordo, M.D., A.B.P.N.

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56 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

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Gastroenterology Many subjects are taboo (even amongst our loved ones) and discussing our bowel movements might just make the top of the list. But gastroenterologists are here for it. We all know (or should know) to schedule a colonoscopy to screen for colon cancer when we turn 50, but there’s so much more to the practice of gastroenterology than catching the second leading cause of cancer deaths in women early.

If you’re experiencing chronic heartburn or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), you have options. Severe or chronic abdominal pain, diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, and rectal bleeding can be symptoms of an inflammatory bowel disease like Crohn’s. IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) might not cause permanent damage, but its symptoms (cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation) can make your life hell. Gastroenterologists also treat Celiac disease, an autoimmune disease that makes your body unable to process gluten. Symptoms include gas, diarrhea, stomach pain, fatigue, weight loss, and itchy rashes and blisters. So no, you don’t need to share your embarrassing bathroom stories with others if you’re not comfortable, but you do need to book an appointment with a gastroenterologist who’ll understand and be empathetic to your symptoms while treating them. Dr. Jonathan Siegel, a board-certified gastroenterologist practicing at Alabama Medical Group (the area’s largest multi-specialty medical group with locations in Mobile, West Mobile, and Saraland) can help.

Bariatrics

The world isn’t overly kind to overweight people. Even today, with all we know about the real effects of bullying, fat-shaming is often a socially accepted form of bigotry (though we at ACCESS do not condone such negativity). Nevertheless, if achieving a leaner, healthier build is something you’re looking to do for YOU, looking into a bariatric practice might be in your best interest.

Bariatrics is the field of medicine that deals with the study and treatment of obesity, and Dr. Forrest Ringold, F.A.C.S., F.A.S.M.B.S., at the Surgical Association of Mobile just might be your go-to if you need help losing weight. He and his staff are passionate about helping you not only with bariatric surgery, but also by offering less invasive treatments like the endoscopically-placed Orbera Intragas“There is simply tric Balloon, perfect for those nothing more who might not prefer surgery rewarding than or only need to lose about 40 pounds. But your journey helping someone who has struggled, doesn’t end with whichever surgery or treatment sometimes most Dr. Ringold prescribes. “In of their lives, with addition to a gym memberweight issues.” ship, a licensed dietitian works - Forrest Ringold, M.D., with you to maximize results,” F.A.C.S., F.A.S.M.B.S. he says. “We see our clients for an entire year to manage their nutrition and fitness.” And the results?

“There is simply nothing more rewarding than helping someone who has struggled — sometimes most of their lives — with weight issues. The experience for them is life-changing and their gratitude is truly moving. My staff and I are honored to work diligently to support and make real changes in our patients’ lives.”

Psychology You don’t have to be in the mental health fight of your life to seek therapy. In fact, the sooner you seek help, the faster you’ll feel better. Most people we know regularly deal with everyday stress, but maybe you’re not sure when you should make the call.

Let us help.

Are you experiencing significant distress in your life? If The sooner you anxiety, depression, or seek help, the anything is leaving you overwhelmed for weeks faster you’ll at a time, make the call. If feel better. you’ve tried all the things you read in some article (Yoga! Meditation! Work out! Journal every day!) but nothing is helping, make the call.

If you’re overwhelming your support system or shutting everyone out, it’s time to talk to someone whose entire job revolves around listening and offering tools and techniques to help you. If you’ve begun overusing/abusing anything to alleviate your symptoms, call for help before you add another disorder to your problems. Lastly, has anyone in your life mentioned they’ve noticed significant or alarming changes in your behavior? Again, it might be time to make the call. Dr. Kathleen Payne and her colleagues at Bay Area Psychology & Counseling are passionate about providing quality care in a compassionate manner to assist people with improving their quality of life.

Kathleen Payne, Ph.D. Jonathan Siegel, M.D., F.A.C.G.

Alabama Medical Group

Forrest Ringold, M.D., F.A.C.S., F.A.S.M.B.S.

Bay Area Psychology & Counseling

Surgical Association of Mobile, P.A.

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58 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

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Healthy Living Guide

S U RV I V I N G

A N X I E T Y, P A I N , & M O R E Due to the Covid-19 outbreak, anxiety is at an all-time high, felt by all regardless of age, sex, geographic location, or economic status. Whether you’re a small business owner, a stay-at-home mom, have a compromised immune system, or you’re in the trenches fighting the virus head-on, the stress is immeasurable. Thankfully, Simply CBD owners Aaron VanHauter and Chad Bartz offer a variety of options that might be right for what ails you.

Here, Aaron shares this expertise and cuts through the confusion so you can make an informed decision.

By Hayley Hill

CBD is surrounded by countless misconceptions. Many have the perception that CBD is "pot." What's the difference?

Chad Bartz and Aaron VanHauter

You two are more knowledgeable than most when it comes to all things CBD. How did you acquire such expertise?

“I went to Tampa as the owner of Advantage Digital Agency to present at a CBD convention.

After several days there, I walked away knowing CBD could change people’s lives for the better.

Upon returning, I sought out my partner Chad Bartz (a respected multi-business owner), and from there we embarked on a one-year journey to seek out the best hemp-derived products in the country. We didn’t want to just open a store; we wanted to be the most knowledgeable and offer the most effective products available. We’ve been to the plant, the fields, and even met with the biochemists — that’s where our firsthand knowledge comes from.”

Do I need a prescription for CBD? What can it be used for?

“No, a prescription is not needed to purchase or use CBD. It can be used to aide in anxiety relief; as an anti-seizure precaution; help with neuroprotective disorders (diseases that cause the brain and nerves to deteriorate such as Alzheimer’s, MS, Parkinson’s, and strokes); and offer pain relief from arthritis, spinal cord injuries, muscle pain, and more. It is also used against acne and for help with appetite, inflammation, and sleeplessness. Interestingly, while it is in the early stage, studies are in progress regarding the effectiveness of CBD in preventing cancer cell growth and it is already commonly used to manage cancer treatment symptoms like nausea.”

60 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

“In no way is CBD pot! While CBD and marijuana (pot) are derived from the same plant — Cannabis — CBD does not contain the ingredient tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in levels like pot, which induces the psychoactive component referred to as the ‘high.’ Most of our products are THC-free to the point of non-detectable levels. A few of our products have detectable THC levels within the federal legal limits. We carry those products because they have health benefits for a select group of people. Our products are also organic, strictly GMO-free, vegan, and 100 percent naturally sourced from 100 percent natural hemp.”

We've heard a lot of people say, "CBD doesn't work for me."

How do you address this?

“CBD can work for everyone — even pets. This is science, this is natural, and while we’re not doctors, we’re extremely knowledgeable about CBD. We offer unique products at the forefront of the industry specifically designed to aide with cognitive issues like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and many others. When working with clients who’ve tried to go it alone online or just pick some up with no expertise, we’ve found they are often not getting the proper dosage or are using an inferior product. We’ve had clients greatly improve sleeplessness, anxiety, pain, inflammation, and even muscle aches from strenuous workouts when they work with us to ensure the proper usage. Shortcuts won’t work, just like inferior products won’t work. To achieve success, we work closely with clients to pinpoint their symptoms and suggest the best products specifically for them, as well as calculate the individual’s necessary dosage and create a schedule to maximize benefits. This method has proven to be very efficient and directly relates to our success.

Interacting with customers to understand their unique health issues enables us to recommend the best product(s) to improve their quality of life.”

“Working with Simply CBD has been a pure joy. All the employees are so knowledgeable and helpful. I struggle with back issues and an old torn shoulder injury. After a topical pain creme recommendation, it worked within 10 minutes. And wow, I have used it ever since! It also smells like a spa, which is an added bonus. I definitely recommend Simply CBD to anyone with muscle/joint issues. I had tried all the over-the-counter products, but have to say, this Simply CBD creme is the best!”

—Missy Dunnam, Head Trainer Orangetheory Fitness, Mobile

Some believe using CBD will result in a failed drug test. Is this true?

“This is precisely why consumers need to work with a reputable business when purchasing CBD products. THC products might not make you fail a drug test, but they could, and without a knowledgeable resource to help you understand, that could be a problem for some. Because we are the supply chain (from our U.S.-based farms to extraction, bottling, and shipping), we are ‘seed to shelf.’ We do have customers that seek the low levels of THC as a health benefit to them, but we are always very clear with our customers about the THC levels in our products.”

Why should we shop with you?

“To achieve success, it’s most important to choose an effective product to improve your quality of life. Not every store or online source offers quality products or are knowledgeable sources. It really is a ‘buyer beware’ market where all products are not created equal. From varied fillers including everything from vegetable oil to glycerin used to cut costs, consumers need to choose where they do business carefully. A good deal is not always the best deal. Our customers have a voice, and at Simply CBD, we believe that voice has value. We’re proud to be Google’s top-rated CBD store in Alabama.”

What is happening with CBD and the FDA? Explain your product testing process and why it is important.

“The FDA is getting more involved, and unless shops have a quality product created in a FDA-compliant or certified clean room like ours, they will most likely be forced to close. The FDA won’t allow these small vape shops and CBD stores to continue to sell sub-par products.

Product testing is a top priority for us. Just as not all CBD products are the same, not all companies are trustworthy. And, much like CBD, not all testing is equal. We use Bontacore, the most reputable hemp testing company in the country.

It’s a bit more expensive, but we do not pass that expense on to our customers.”

Simply CBD 2005 US Highway 98 Daphne 251.586.8890 3664 Airport Boulevard Mobile 251.345.4005 Simply-CBD.net

“At 55 years old, I run and do CrossFit five times per week. I use the CBG (cannabigerol) oils and gummies, and they really seem to help in my recovery time, as well as helping with inflammation. The gummies also help take the edge off when things get stressful. I have been using Simply CBD products for about a year and really like their store, as they are very knowledgeable and take the time to try to help you find which product works best for you.”

- Russ Copeland Partner at Hedge Copeland P.C. Law Firm

E AT, NOU R I SH ,

GLOW

Until now, most of us have been busier than we’d like to admit, and regrettably, those healthy habits we’ve worked to incorporate have long been pushed to the bottom of the list. With a little more time on our hands, seeking simple solutions from a knowledgeable local business owner seemed like a great place to start. Clear the fear; your journey to optimal health starts here.

By Hayley Hill

F

or local restauranteur Nicole Shipman, a healthy lifestyle is more than a business model — it’s personal. “I struggled with my weight a little after the birth of my first daughter, having gained 60 pounds during my pregnancy,” Nicole shares. “While a lot of it was fluid, it was a lot more than I should have gained,” she adds, noting that before getting pregnant with her second daughter, she sought the help of a personal trainer to get back on track. “Soon after, my father had a major heart attack and underwent quintuple bypass surgery at 69 years old,” she tells. “He survived and has made major lifestyle changes, now about to celebrate his 84th birthday. After his heart attack, I knew heart disease ran in my family and I became committed to becoming a healthier version of me.”

Transforming her passion for healthy living into a career was natural for this Atlanta native, who now lives in Daphne where she runs her business, Fresh Healthy Café. “I have a background in education and health and wellness,” she shares. “I have worked as a fitness instructor and personal trainer at the Bounds Family YMCA and as a coach at Orangetheory Fitness in Daphne. I found within my personal training practice that my clients would show up for workouts but were sabotaging their hard work through their poor diets. You can’t out train a poor diet.

I also saw that there was a lack of healthy restaurants in Baldwin County. I saw a niche and began to plan,” she says.

And at a time all most of us can think about

62 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

is the Coronavirus, Nicole says making smart choices is an aspect of this “new normal” that we can control. “I believe our immune system is supported mostly through our gut,” she says. “Our bodies are like machines; if you feed them with the right fuel, they will perform better. If you feed them the wrong things, you start to develop inflammation and disturb the natural balance within. Even the ancient philosopher Hippocrates said, ‘Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food,’” she shares.

Having had great success since opening her doors in 2017 at the Eastern Shore Center, Nicole says trusting her gut was the right move. “As the first juice bar on the Eastern Shore, our loyal customers continue to amaze me,” she says. “We only use the freshest ingredients, utilize local farms as much as possible, and everything is fresh and made to order. Locals love our locally grown wheatgrass shots, ginger shots, and variety of clean juices in addition to our one-, two-, and three-day juice cleanse programs. We also proudly cater to individuals with food allergies and dietary restrictions with our glutenfree, vegan, and vegetarian options, as well as portion-controlled paninis, wraps, salads, organic soups, protein and power bowls, and clean smoothies. I truly believe that what you put into your body is what you get out of it, and my main goal is to provide healthy options that taste delicious. Healthy never tasted so good!”

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Owner Nicole Shipman

Obviously, we wonder how she’s handling business during the Coronavirus outbreak. “We are currently offering online ordering, call-in orders, and curbside pickup,” she shares. “We also work with Waitr and DoorDash for deliveries. We are not fast food; we are fresh, and orders take a little more time. We highly encourage online ordering and call-in orders if you are in a hurry,” she adds.

As for her pet peeves? “People assume we are all bean sprouts and tofu… we are not,” she says. “I’ve set out to prove to the Eastern Shore and Mobile that wholesome, healthy food is delicious!” Having enjoyed a recent lunch tried by even the most skeptical ACCESS staffers, we can attest to that delicious factor. We love the fact you can create your own eats, with everything from smoothies to protein bowls to choose from (heck yes to extra avocado!).

On her go-to eats, she shares, “My absolute favorites are our nutrient-dense menu items such as the Turkey Pesto Panini; the Beach Salad loaded with fresh blueberries, hemp hearts, and feta; the Cold Terminator Juice complete with a tangy kick of ginger; and the Kale Pineapple Smoothie blended with mango, banana, and kale — the king of all veggies!”

Passionate about teaching others how delicious healthy can be, Nicole says she starts at home. As mom to Madeline (16), Mackenzie (12), and John Parker (6), she’s as busy as most of us. “Our family is very active, and I make it a priority to eat healthy at home,” she says. “We eat a lot of grilled chicken, fish, and *on occasion,* red meat. My oldest daughter is an elite company dancer at Gulf Coast Dance Alliance and is a member of the Jubilee Girls dance team; my middle daughter is a cheerleader and tumbler; my son is a swimmer; my husband enjoys running; and I prefer HIIT at F45 Training or Kayotic Fitness and yoga at The Yoga Hive,” she adds. Nicole says it’s all about committing, and once it becomes a habit, you’ll be amazed you lived any other way. Ah, fast food be damned! Fast, fresh, family-friendly food is here on the Bay. For fun, the family loves watching the sunsets on the Bay, walks in Downtown Daphne and along the Fairhope Pier, and meals from Fairhope’s Dragonfly Café and Sage. “I’m great friends with both owners and love supporting their businesses,” she adds.

Having lived here for close to 10 years, she has more than adapted, having been an active member in the Maids of Jubilee for some time now. Phil-

anthropically, the family also supports lots of local causes and even supports a child in the Dominican Republic through Compassion International.

So, in the name of supporting a small business and having the time we’ve all ached for to address habits, why not give healthy a try? Plus, Nicole shares, “We have a lot of regulars and I try to get to know them all by name and treat them like family.

They comment on the freshness of our food items and the cleanliness of our café. We’ve had three 100 percent health scores in a row,” she beams. Whether you’re interested in what all the “clean eating” chatter is about or want to address health issues from diabetes to heart concerns, who couldn’t use more family-friendly vibes on their side right now?

Fresh Healthy Café 10184 Eastern Shore Blvd.

Suite C Spanish Fort, AL 251.444.7170

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE

SURGICAL TEAM

200+ EXPERIENCE

YEARS OF

Gerhard A. Boehm, M.D., FACS Daniel A. Dennis III, M.D. Christopher Dyas, M.D., FACS Joseph Galloway, M.D., FACS Jimmie G. Gavras, M.D., FACS Steven W. Kinsey, M.D., FACS Caroline E. McGugin, M.D. Edward A. Otts, M.D. Issac C. Payne, D.O. Kaci D. Sims, M.D. Lee Thompson, M.D., FACS J. Wells Wilson, M.D., FACS

MOBILE

251-433-5557

SPRINGHILL AVE. 251-438-4440

FAIRHOPE

251-990-9191

INFIRMARYSURGICAL SPECIALISTS.ORG

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251-943-1045

Healthy Living Guide

PRO F I L E

YO U R F I T N E S S

Tired of starting a new diet only to relapse to your old ways before the week is up? The good news is, it’s not your fault! Each person is uniquely different, which is why you need a nutrition and fitness plan tailored to your individual needs. Enter Profile by Sanford. Certified Coach and Operations Manager Bo Lackey and Business Developer Tavia Mounce explain why their program creates sustainable, healthy lifestyles for their clients.

By Caroline Edmondson

L

osing weight is hard. With the constant rotation of new fad “yo-yo” diets, it’s nearly impossible to find one that not only works for your lifestyle, but also is sustainable after you shed the initial unwanted weight.

After all, these diets rarely take into account a specific person’s weight, height, nutrition needs, or current lifestyle, which is why one diet might work for some but not for others. So, what makes Profile by Sanford more likely to work and help users create a healthy lifestyle? Well, as Certified

Coach and Operations Manager Bo Lackey puts it: “The word ‘Profile’ simply indicates that each member is an individual, and we therefore treat them that way. We aren’t a ‘one size fits all’ program,” he says.

Not only is their program tailored for each member; it was designed by 66 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

doctors and researchers at Sanford Health, the largest not-for-profit integrated healthcare system in the world, taking the guesswork out of healthy lifestyle changes. “We have different plans or protocols for the general population: those with medical conditions, a Teen Protocol, a Mom Protocol for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, and a Perform Protocol for athletes,” Bo says.

So how do you know which Profile plan is right for you? New members meet with their new coach, who will be there for them every step of their journey to motivate, answer questions, and to generally be their biggest supporter. “We simply have a conversation with our member, striving to keep the atmosphere relaxed and judgment-free,” says Business Developer Tavia Mounce. “We discuss their goals, medical history, and current lifestyle to create a plan that best works for that member.” With the right program in tow, Profile’s coaches help guide you toward the lifestyle you always wanted to lead.

Not only do they introduce members to nutrition plans focused on teaching them how to fuel their bodies with healthy, balanced meals that will leave them feeling energized and empowered, but they also help break and replace old habits with alternatives that support the goals members are working towards. “Sometimes it's as simple as planning a pedicure for the time of day they would normally be bored at home snacking. We

encourage members to discover new percent of your body weight within healthy activities they love,” Tavia 12 months or your money back,” Bo adds. says. “Profile works. Many of our Working as a Profile coach himself, members are losing more than 15 Bo believes what really makes percent in just six months. For those Profile work is the that stay the course, it relationship between “The word ‘Profile’ works,” Bo and Tavia members and their simply indicates that say. But to see the coaches. “Coaching each member is an results, you have to is significant to each individual, and we be willing to put in the individual,” he says. work. “You have to be therefore treat them “We all need differwilling to bring about ent forms of support that way. We aren’t change and continue and accountability a ‘one size fits all’ to motivate yourself and knowing what program.” to stay on the plan,” each member needs — Bo Lackey Bo says. “If you have is something we pride tried diets before and ourselves on. It is important that we not seen the results you were hoping get to know each member and the for, chances are you were missing lives that they lead outside of the the accountability and support that Profile doors so that we can best you needed. That is exactly what support them and offer advice and will make this program a success for coaching in a way that is useful for you,” he adds. them and their life. Personal relationSo, put down the meal replacement ships are quite possibly our favorite shakes or that overly processed part of the coaching process,” Bo protein bar, and stop restricting! says. “Plus, it feels pretty great Let Profile by Sanford create a plan to have someone in your corner, tailored just for you and say, “Girl, invested in your wins just as much as bye,” to those fad diets that just don’t you are, celebrating your success and work for you. Given the right tools, motivating you when you need it. A a healthy lifestyle is attainable. Let coach can provide that individualized Profile by Sanford provide those motivation that will keep you going at tools, and finally live the healthy life times when going at it alone, you may you’ve always wanted. be swayed to give up.”

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Healthy Living Guide

S E L F-I S O L AT I ON

B U T M A K E I T H E A LT H Y If you’ve been left without a gym to go to, your weekly yoga class has been cancelled, or you can’t meet up with your trainer for a whole month, you might be wondering how in the world you are going to keep up with your fitness goals. Lucky for you, Omar Mulla is here with his best tips and tricks for staying healthy during the pandemic.

By Sydney McDonald

Omar Mulla and Molly McClung

Y

ou might recognize Omar Mulla from our most recent 50 Most Beautiful issue. In it, we delved into his philanthropic work as a personal trainer at his business, OM Personal Training; his time as a member of the Wellness Council of America; and his current contributions as a member of the local nonprofit, Fuse Project. Omar has since continued his work in Fairhope helping his clients reach their potential through his business, as well as through his position as Chief Wellness Officer at Aptus Capital Advisors where he helps implement strategies to help improve employee wellbeing. “It is my mission to help others experience how exercise is not only a method for improving our 68 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

physical health, but also a tool we can use to discover our capabilities, do more of what we love, and live with greater fulfillment,” Omar says.

However, 2020 has taken quite a turn recently with the COVID-19 pandemic. After weeks of self-isolation brought on by the pandemic, it might be hard to keep with the fitness goals you have been working on tirelessly this year, but Omar offers professional advice to help you get through the next month without your normal gym and life routine: “Maintaining a routine through adversity builds resilience,” Omar shares. “If you can stay the course here, you’ll be better equipped to deal with life’s ups and downs later on without being stifled when things don’t go exactly as planned.”

With all the clouds of uncertainty hovering over us right now, keeping a routine while you’re cooped up inside your house might be the last thing on your mind, though it’s the most important time to make sure you do! Right now, you are the only motivation you have, so you need to set daily goals for yourself to accomplish that will keep your physical progression (and your sanity) in line. “Your health isn’t tied to a gym,” Omar assures. “This is a great opportunity to get outside, exit your comfort zone, and discover new ways of exercising. Of course, practice good sense and pay attention to government guidelines,” Omar advises. “Engage with your fitness community, even if you can’t be with them in person. If you’re looking for ways to stay connected with friends and need the accountability, check out community-based fitness apps like Strava.”

Omar and his friend Molly McClung worked together to create a free six-week workout program that can be done at home with very minimal equipment.

Now’s the perfect time to download a program such as this to keep yourself active at home, especially if you have a harder time curating a workout on your own. The Woodbrew x OM Personal Training 6 Week Training Guide is available on Omar’s website.

Omar also posts workouts daily on the OM Personal Training Instagram page.

Even as a fitness professional, Omar is making sure to keep himself in line with his normal routine as much as possible. “I’m still exercising daily, spending time outdoors, being extra attentive to the people who depend on me and making time for activities I enjoy,” he says. “I keep structure in my day by being disciplined about the time I go to bed and the time I wake up.”

Omar recommends using this time at home to also start working on new habits. If you weren’t exactly sure

of your fitness goals before this, now you can use this time to plan and achieve them. “When it comes to your health, think long term and look at the big picture,” he says. “Health is not about six-pack abs, drinking green smoothies, or spending the rest of your life lifting weights in a gym.

It’s about being able to do what you love without limitation. Making a lifestyle change takes time and a lot of work, but the process begins with one conscious decision,” he says, noting that our actions can often

on of s

a

have a ripple effect, be it for better or worse. “If you make one small conscious decision to do better, it’s likely you’ll witness that one good decision influence other areas of your life in a positive way,” he says.

“Be patient with yourself and focus on making better choices one day at a time.” This sentiment rings true always, social isolation or not.

Omar’s last words of advice are to keep everything simple right now.

“Use this time to get back to your roots,” he says. “Move, drink water, eat your vegetables, sleep well, and meditate.” Now’s the time to reset and work on yourself, all while staying safe and healthy.

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FIT-BITS Who doesn’t want to lead a healthy lifestyle? ACCESS Magazine has broken down some of the most popular diets, gadgets, and athletic wear to make your health journey a piece of cake — oh, cake sounds great right now… but balance, right?

By Sydney McDonald

Diets & Lifestyles WHOLE 30:

The Whole30 diet is a simple diet that is all in the name. It’s 30 days of eating foods that are “whole,” or unprocessed. You can’t eat anything that has added sugars of any sort (so no honey or agave), along with no alcohol, grains, dairy, and a few other things. This diet also doesn’t allow for replacements of any foods that you normally crave even if you can replace the ingredients with healthier ones. The point of Whole30 is to reset and get you started on a journey to making healthier choices in your daily eating habits even after the 30 days are over. Whole30 does not focus on weight loss or any other particular goal other than bettering your life and food choices in total, though with this diet most people do see weight loss, higher energy levels, and some even see improvement with underlying issues. This is a very strict diet that does not allow for any slip-ups or cheat days, but if you are looking for a total reset in your diet and eating habits this could be the perfect diet for you to try!

70 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

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PALEO DIET:

The Paleo Diet is a nod to our ancestors creating a diet consisting of what “hunter-gatherers” would have eaten.

It is known to lower risks of health issues like heart disease and obesity, as well as help people achieve weight loss without calorie counting. The Paleo Diet allows you to eat meat, fish, eggs, fruits, nuts, and much more. You mainly should avoid processed foods, anything high in sugar, dairy products, or anything that you couldn’t obtain naturally. Paleo is open to substitutions and isn’t extremely strict, so it could be an easy way to help you start on a journey to a healthier lifestyle.

Some research has shown that it helps to prevent some cancers, Diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and more.

– Keto Diet MEDITERRANEAN DIET:

Ranked as the best diet of 2020 by multiple sources, the Mediterranean Diet is easy to follow and simple to understand to help improve your overall diet and health. Based on the diets of those who populate the countries around the Mediterranean, it has been known to help with weight loss and prevention of heart attacks, strokes, Type 2 Diabetes, and much more. The Mediterranean Diet consists of fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, herbs, and spices with very little consumption of red meats and processed food. This is a less strict diet compared to some other current trends in the diet world and is more of a lifestyle. If you are looking for a change that you can stick with for a prolonged period of time that isn’t too compromising to your daily life and habits, the Mediterranean Diet could be the right fit.

KETO:

As one of the most popular diets of the last decade, Keto is a simple diet. It is low-carb and high-fat, and is most widely used for weight loss (but has many health benefits to it as well). Some research has shown that it helps to prevent some cancers, Diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and more. The science behind Keto is to lower the insulin levels in your body so your body can burn fats easily. Foods that are forbidden for Keto include sugary foods, most fruits, potatoes, low-fat or diet products, alcohol, and much more. It is a strict diet but has major positive effects if followed properly.

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Fitness Gear & Gadgets

PELOTON BIKE:

Dubbed “the best cardio machine on the planet,” the Peloton Bike has taken the athome fitness world by storm. This machine brings the heart-pumping cardio of a spin class right to the comfort of your living room.

Its core is made of carbon steel and aluminum and is fitted with a Wi-Fi enabled, 22-inch touchscreen tablet that streams live and ondemand classes, ensuring you get a kick-butt workout every time you step on.

HIDRATE SPARK 3 SMART WATER BOTTLE:

Have you ever wished for a water bottle that would remind you when you needed to take a sip of water? You tell yourself you’re going to drink more water each day, and before you know it, the day is over, and you haven’t even finished your first bottle! Well, imagine a water bottle that can connect to your phone via Bluetooth to do exactly that! The Hidrate Spark 3 smart water bottle connects your bottle to your phone via an app. You create a profile and put in some information that allows the app to know how much water you should be drinking per day to stay healthy and hydrated. If you are not drinking enough it will send alerts and reminders to your phone to let you know that it’s time to take a sip.

During this period of “social distancing” at home, it might be even harder to stick with any fitness goals you have, as you’re going to be tempted to stay in bed all day and binge watch Netflix, but this water bottle and app can help you stay on track. It is the perfect accessory to your everyday life to help keep you in line with your health and fitness goals!

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HYDROJUG:

There’s no question that drinking plenty of water daily is great for you and can also aid in weight loss. Some heath authorities commonly recommend about a half a gallon a day. But keeping track can be difficult, which is where the HydroJug comes in. This jug holds half a gallon of water, so you won’t have to constantly refill your bottle. Just fill once, and crush that recommended half a gallon a day. $19.99 / TheHydroJug.com

BACKSLASH FIT SMART YOGA MAT:

Looking to step up your yoga game? Take a peek at the newest trend in mats: the Backslash Fit Smart Yoga Mat. It can hook up to your speaker, play routines for you to follow, and — best of all — it is self-rolling! If you’re new to yoga and want to try out some routines at home before committing to a class, this could be the perfect way for you to get a start on your journey with the built-in routines. If your fitness classes have been put on hold during these uncertain times, this mat could help save your daily yoga routine. $89.95 / Amazon.com

74 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

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Dress for the Gym

LULULEMON:

Even if you aren’t into yoga, fitness, or anything related, it’s likely that you have heard (or already have a pair) of Lululemon leggings. They have been all the rage in the fitness world for the last few years. If you have somehow missed the Lululemon train, we can catch you up now. Starting in Vancouver, the label began as a small design studio for yoga apparel, having now grown into a fitness empire that creates cute and durable workout gear for things like yoga, cycling, running, and much more. The company focuses on not only promoting fashionable workout choices, but also pushes for a healthier lifestyle as well. If you like to make sure you look good when you are working up a sweat, Lululemon has the best fit waiting for you!

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GYMSHARK:

GymShark has been branded by social media influencers in the last few years. This company has made moves on social media platforms like Instagram by sponsoring posts by trainers and average workout junkies with a following alike. In so doing, they have created quite a name for themselves that every young fitness enthusiast wants to be a part of.

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OUTDOOR VOICES:

Outdoor Voices is a popular brand focused on creating gear that is as perfect for lounging around as it is for any workout. Their goal is to make workout clothing that is just as comfortable as your pajamas, all while providing support and stability.

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LO C A L CULTURE

C O RO NAV I RU S , C O P I N G , A N D K I D S :

F I N DI NG C ALM A M I DST TH E CHAOS

Pandemic. National emergency. Social distancing. Quarantine. Each of these terms invoke fear, uncertainty, and panic — and that’s among the world’s adult population. Now imagine hearing each of those as a child. Pile on disrupted routines, schools shutting down, friendships put on hold, parents suddenly working from home (or worse: unable to work at all), and stressed adults having whispered conversations in hallways (or loud disagreements out in the open). Terrifying, right? Thankfully, Daphne Elementary School Counselor Rebecca L. Johnson is here to offer ways to help our youth cope with the anxiety and fears they may be facing as our world battles an invisible enemy: COVID-19.

D

aphne Elementary School’s “Friendly School Counselor” Rebecca L. Johnson has faced her fair share of difficult circumstances when it comes to helping children cope, be it with hardships at home, learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, bullying — her skillset runs the proverbial gamut. But in this new age of “virtual learning” and “social distancing” thanks to the global pandemic spurred by the Novel Coronavirus, Rebecca knows many children (and their parents) may start to experience behavioral and emotional distress formerly unheard of in their households.

Holding a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in professional school counseling, Rebecca has served as Daphne Elementary School’s “Friendly School Counselor” for the last two of her four years in the field, though she has been teaching since 2006. But with all of Alabama’s K-12 public schools now officially closed for the remainder of the school year, Rebecca says online learning has (and now must) become the “new norm.” Sent home with Chromebooks on the last day before the shutdown, Baldwin County students now “homeschool” using online learning portals to continue their academic progression using programs such as Scholastic, XtraMath, IXL, BrainPOP Jr., and more. But as tensions rise worldwide, Rebecca stresses that there’s more than just academic needs that need to be met during this time for students. “Parents can use this as an opportunity to support their children as they process what they are experiencing,” she says. “Young children can have a hard time identifying the emotions they are feeling. It is not critical to have the exact names for emotions, but it can be helpful for children to describe how they feel.

It may help to explain fear as a normal emotion that can remind us to do things to keep ourselves safe, like remembering to wash hands frequently and keep an appropriate distance between people to be healthy,” she adds.

Rebecca says above all, children need to be reassured that they can get help or support from a family member or trusted adult when they are experiencing strong emotions. “We don’t want our children to think that they have to cope on their own,” 78 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

By Jessica Goolsby

From the CDC: cdc.gov Talking with Children about Coronavirus Disease 2019

she says, citing the groundwork she’s already laid for Daphne Elementary’s roughly 734 students. “All 1st through 3rd grade students at our school are already set up with a grade level Google Classroom for counseling lessons,” she assures.

“In that Classroom I have uploaded all of the whole group counseling lessons that I have taught this year. The biggest challenge I am facing now is how to provide small group and individual counseling services to the students digitally.” To that effect, Rebecca says one of the easiest ways parents can offer support to their children is by engaging them in age-appropriate discussions on COVID-19 to avoid misinformation and ease their fears.

Parents can also prescreen news clips and YouTube videos on the subject and take the time to support their children in family discussions afterward, she suggests.

Physical movement and exercise are also great ways to relieve some of the stress for kids and adults alike, Rebecca shares.

“Social distancing can be a great opportunity for family bonding,” she says.

“You are now given the time to play board games, go for walks, and discuss family dreams. It is important that parents provide children a balance of family time and educational enrichment time, while also taking time to be outdoors,” she suggests, citing kayaking, bike rides, and family movie nights as activities she and husband David have been implementing with their blended family of seven. “If we become fearful, our children will be able to become fearful as well,” she warns. “As a family unit we are capitalizing on our time together to create positive memories that will last a lifetime.”

Despite not knowing when things will go back to “normal,” Rebecca remains ever optimistic, insisting there are plenty of positive experiences and lessons to be gained and learned as we await the passing of this global pandemic. “The best we can do is see this time as an opportunity,” she says. “My family is using this time to invest in each other.” And when all is said and done, is there really anything more important?

From the National Association of School Psychologists: nasponline.org Talking to Children About COVID-19

Rebecca L. Johnson, M.Ed.

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From the Child Mind Institute: childmind.org Supporting Families During COVID-19

“Friendly School Counselor” Daphne Elementary School rjohnson@bcbe.org

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LO C A L CULTURE

V I RT UA L L E A R N I N G :

T H E “ N E W N O R M A L” Schools nationwide have closed their doors in a proactive effort to “flatten the curve” of COVID-19 cases in the U.S., with Alabama Governor Kay Ivey announcing the cancellation of the remainder of the 2019-20 school year for all Alabama K-12 public schools on March 26 (with many state private schools likely to follow suit). And yet despite their physical absence, teachers and administrators across the country are remaining connected with their students in the form of “virtual” or “distance” learning — making the concept of homeschooling less daunting for stressed parents everywhere.

UMS-Wright Lower School Principal Dr. Patricia Boehm and Daphne Elementary School Kindergarten Teacher Mandy Foster took time to chat with ACCESS about ways in which Mobile and Baldwin County educators are keeping students on track during a world pandemic.

C

OVID-19. It’s a term searched more via Google internationally than any other in recent history; one we are inundated with hour upon hour, day after day via the news, social media, and chats with neighbors, friends, and family (albeit remotely or from a safe distance of at least six feet). Yet at a time where “social distancing” has been touted as “the new normal,” our nation’s educators stand on the front lines of academia, refusing to allow their students to backslide into the trenches. UMSWright Lower School Principal Dr. Patricia Boehm is one of them.

“At the Lower School level, we have relied heavily on a platform called SeeSaw,” Dr. Boehm details. “Originally created to be a journal of student learning and a conversation starter between parents and students, it has proven to be a wonderful way to connect students and teachers during remote learning. Our teachers are recording themselves teaching mini-lessons, guiding children through work together, and pushing out independent work for students to practice skills reviewed or introduced.” Dr. Boehm says teachers at her school have tried to keep class-

By Jessica Goolsby

room routines up as much as possible garten Teacher Mandy Foster says as well, from morning messages to she, too, feels confident in the Baldwin interactive read-alouds, mini math County School System’s approach. lessons, and word work. “Students “At DES and across all Baldwin are able to complete this work on County schools we are so fortunate their school-provided devices and that every student is provided with send it back for feedback from their a computer,” Mandy says. “They are teachers, which is pretty incredible to connected to a student portal with watch as their principal. Our teachers access to various enrichment activiare able to give both ties to review skills written and oral “As educators, we know that have been feedback to students that the outcomes of taught throughout through SeeSaw. remote learning may be this school year.”

Some teachers have Platforms such as different than a those utilized platforms like ClassDojo, SeeSaw, of a traditional school FaceTime or Google BrainPOP Jr., SchoHangouts to provide setting, and we are lastic, XtraMath, feedback and one-on- making plans for how IXL, and more are one instruction as to best approach this a mere mouse-click needed.” Dr. Boehm reality in the coming away, even down says UMS-Wright months.” to the county’s enrichment staff are youngest students. providing “brain - Dr. Patricia Boehm “We (teachers) breaks” along the receive regular way, which have been engaging for communication from Superintenstudents as well. “I cannot begin to dent Eddie Tyler as well as our local tell you how amazing our teachers schools,” Mandy says. “We are on have been in this process — shifting call and ready to jump in to best meet from a regular classroom to remote the needs of our students.” A continlearning with little time to prepare,” ued curriculum is set to be established Dr. Boehm says. “They are super in the coming weeks for Baldwin stars!”

County Schools, scheduled to kick Daphne Elementary School Kinderoff at the end of the originally sched-

uled Spring Break (April 6-10) on April 13.

Dr. Boehm notes that providing an academic experience in the home is something many may find difficult, particularly as they try to balance their own jobs while monitoring their children's learning. “Some parents are worried that their children will not continue their academic growth during remote learning,” Dr. Boehm says. “I would say that should be the least of their concerns at this time, for

Dr. Patricia Boehm, Ed.D. UMS-Wright Lower School Principal pboehm@ums-wright.org

everyone is in the same boat across our country. As educators, we know that the outcomes of remote learning may be different than those of a traditional school setting, and we are making plans for how to best approach this reality in the coming months.”

Mandy agrees. “For my Kinder babies, they are at the beginning of their social development,” she explains. “They are at a time in their lives where they are learning to build friendships and develop a joy for learning. I think their biggest concerns are the loss of routines and engagement with peers.

As far as academics, I think parents are concerned with the approach to teaching, keeping them engaged, and a lack of confidence in teaching the material for older grades.”

Overall, it’s the mental and emotional impact these uncertain times are having on our youth that worry both educators most. “For the younger ages, I feel like they are innocently unaware of the magnitude of the situation and its effects,” Mandy says. “All they see or know are our reactions to all of this. For the ones old enough to understand and know the impacts ones and the importance of slowing of such a situation, they are worried down to enjoy the small moments — worried about their parents, and in life, which are actually the most important ones.” of course the missed “I feel and hope that this events and milestones of “This will be a dances, graduations, etc. challenge, but will bring back the importance of family, the time These occasions are more one that can we spend together, and important to them than we be overcome respect for the ‘village’ realize.” around us that pours into “Students are unable to with love, be at school with friends, patience, and our families,” Mandy adds.

“We live in one of the best unable to participate in creativity.” places on earth! We have extracurricular activities, beautiful weather to enjoy, a and are often unable to - Mandy Foster supportive community, and see individuals who typically play a large role in their lives, strong families. This will be a challike grandparents,” Dr. Boehm adds. lenge, but one that can be overcome “This overnight change has created with love, patience, and creativity. anxiety for students, which manifests This time with our families is a gift itself in a variety of ways. It is import- and all gifts come with a price. Make ant for parents to try to talk through this time worth it!” the feelings their children are having, acknowledging that the feelings are real and important. We have to realize as adults that each child will internalize the impact of this pandemic differently, and we must be respectful of their feelings and help our children work through them the best we can, knowing that feelings may change from day to day,” she says.

Despite the challenges of educating from afar, both women acknowledge that there are still “silver linings” to be found. “I believe it is important to focus on what is in one's control and what is not,” Dr. Boehm says. “We can control our attitude, our approach to suggestions from our local authorMandy Foster ities such as social distancing, our Daphne Elementary School kindness towards others, and finding Kindergarten Teacher positive ways to spend our time. I amfoster@bcbe.org believe above all else we will learn the power of being present for our loved

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BECOMING MOBILE! Mobile’s favorite Architectural Historian, Cart Blackwell, is back showcasing Mobile’s Spanish Plaza.

By Cart Blackwell

O

f its time (yet transcending time), Spanish Plaza is among the least understood and underappreciated landmarks in Mobile. This rare gem of Urban Renewal is an international exemplar of a whole city planning approach. It is home to the largest collection of 20th Century Spanish sculptures and mosaics outside of the Iberian Peninsula itself. Viewed as historical and cultural homage to Mobile’s colonial past and international presence, this 1960s public space was part of a larger and much disjunctive grouping of plans to remake Alabama’s oldest city. The experience and origins of Spanish Plaza — the third largest park in downtown Mobile — are timely to take into account, as the unique landscape ensemble is soon to be restored. Let’s look back in time, while we meander around a bit in the present.

Spanish Plaza is bound by Government, Franklin, Church, and Lawrence Streets. It and Malaga Square to the south were collaborative efforts between multiple political, cultural, and community participants — the City of Mobile, Mobile Historic Development Commission, and University of South Alabama prime among them. On what was once some of the choicest of the downtown city center’s most prominent residential properties was created an open space that sought to unite art, nature, and circulation.

It is the lost architectural past that rankles older locals when viewing the space. Historic buildings, for the most part in good repair, were torn down to celebrate a distant past that no one remembered: Spain. There were no Spanish-era buildings left in Mobile, but through art, a physical space was made where that neglected era of Mobile’s diverse colonial past reentered the City’s cultural and physical landscapes. Touting the past (albeit in a contemporary fashion) was the official approach of the Port City at the time. The results and rhetoric behind that viewpoint were realized by those living within and visiting from without the city alike. Mobile, “Alabama’s Magic City in Motion,” as a correspondent for The National Geographic called it in a feature article of their March 1968 edition, was building upon a glorious past in business, planning, recreation, and culture. Spanish Plaza, which was completed that very year, was a vital linkage between the newly opened Civic Center and Government Plaza.

The employ of swaths of landscaping connecting major sites were pervasive city planning approach during the Post World War II decades. There was considerable precedent for doing so.

The Midcentury approach was championed by Swiss-born architect Le Corbusier. The idea works well in when starting from scratch, but the consequences of are often disastrous in communities with established and densely built up urban cores.

On the site of what were 12 impressive 19th Century dwellings in the heart of the downtown grid was created a new mini-grid informed by paved walkways punctuated by sculpture, a water feature, street furniture, lighting, trees, open spacing, and plaques. The coordination of these elements is what makes Spanish Plaza so special. The sculpture and street furniture are the art of the it, and in the literal and figurative senses of the expression. Spain’s leading artists creating them. The Statue of Queen Isabel has a duplicate by the same artist found on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Most benches were enlivened my colorful mosaics depicting Spanish cities and provinces. A roughly centrally placed fountain rung in part by Modernist arcade is enlivened by jets of water and at one time vibrant lighting effects.

During the 1980s and 1990s, Spanish Plaza experienced the same marked decline that impacted downtown Mobile as a whole. Surrounded by the Chamber of Commerce, the residence of the Archbishop of Mobile, the Mobile Carnival Museum, and notable historic houses, the site is ripe for a reawakening. A partnership between the City of Mobile and the Mobile Historic Development Commission (with the gracious assistance of two notable foundations) is taking the lead in a restoration set to begin in the coming weeks. This timely restoration of a space encompassing multiple pasts will revitalize an artful and historical ensemble that is hidden away in plain sight.

82 ACCESS Magazine / April 2020

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THE

LUSH LIFE Small business owner Tim Burt of Mobile’s yummy all-things-home shop, LUSH Home • Garden • Event, addresses finding your zen (and not a moment too soon… after all, who doesn’t need a little zen right now?).

Whether you make peace with your clutter or go all Marie Kondo, take this time to consider your relationship with your home.

Y’all, let’s learn a new word today: Hygge (Pronounced “HOO-gah”). Hygge is a general mood of coziness; a lifestyle culture emphasizing comfort and contentment. Isn’t that what everyone should achieve in their home? Whether it is a 500 square foot flat in New Orleans or a 5,000 square foot home in Springhill, we all want our space to feel like a place of relaxation; to feel that we are safe and can be ourselves. To achieve this, we have to think about what it is that triggers that “sigh” — you know the one… that “ahh,” like falling into a warm bath. Is it a comfy sofa? A luxurious bed? A den filled with your favorite books and periodicals? For some it could be original art on all the walls or wonderful wallpaper and a handcrafted rug. Are you someone that likes lots of “things” around you? Stacks of old newspapers, maybe a doll collection, or even a closet full of shoes and purses?

Think about that — does that make you feel “comfy,” or does it cause anxiety? Take an inventory of your space. Look around. Does it make you say, “Oh my gosh, I have to declutter and cull,” or does it make you want to hibernate for a few hours and relax? The beauty of this is all that matters is you. It’s your nest; your oasis. For me, I need a few photos of loved ones, a nice television to watch movies and, of course, a place for my sweet bulldogs, Thomas and Shug. I also have to have an outdoor space. It can be a 6 x 6 balcony or a huge yard — just somewhere to sit and hear the birds, feel the breeze, and smell the world. Once you have discovered Hygge, let’s discuss it. That’s when you can work with a designer, professional organizer, or stager to create that comfort we all desire in our home — our nest — away from all that is going on in the world.

Much love,

Tim Burt

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SELF-LOVE

SKINCARE

As co-creator of The Better Skin Co.’s Better Skin Mirakle Cream, Murphy D. Bishop, II has one central goal: better skin for all people. Following the Whole Foods Clean Label List, he believes it’s what is in your products that counts, not how many products you use. A national success and recently returning to his hometown of Mobile, Murphy shares his quarantine beauty guide.

Almand J. Westbrook, Jr., M.D. 2651 Old Shell Road | Mobile, AL 36607 P (251) 243-7058 | F (251) 243-7059 Dr. Kimberly A. Westbrook, MD 101 Lottie Ln Unit 6, Fairhope, AL 36532 P (251) 990-1980

Dear Friends,

As we head into spring having been steeped in self-quarantine and additional stresses from todays “new normal,” we must love ourselves, and loving oneself is rooted in self-care. Self-care manifests itself in many ways, including engaging in meaningful conversations, reading a great book, exercising, or (my personal favorite): pampering oneself with at-home spa treatments.

Enjoy my tips for creating the best at-home spa experience. #1 – TAKE STOCK OF YOUR SKINCARE INVENTORY. Throw out items that have expired or have changed consistency or smell. Freshen up the assortment with new finds and favorites. #2 – ALLOCATE TIME FOR YOU. I like to allocate time either in the morning or at night (or both).

Schedule the time and make it a priority. You can multitask while masking. Whether you show yourself love in five minutes or 50, it all depends on how you spend the time. #3 – CREATE A MENU. You are the spa director. Is it a bubble bath? A mask?

A self-exfoliation? Match your product to your treatment and let’s get started.

My two favorite treatments are a creamy moisturizing mask and a full body scrub.

For the mask, in your hand, mix a generous portion of Better Skin Epik C Serum with Better Skin Amaze Balm or Better Skin Mirakle Cream to create a creamy paste. Apply liberally to your face and body. If at night, apply liberally and simply fall asleep with the lush concoction on your face to wake up refreshed. If in the morning, apply and leave on for five to 10 minutes while watering the garden or checking emails. Massage it into your skin and go about your day, refreshed and ready.

For my full body scrub, run a bath and immerse yourself in the steamy water. I scrub from head to toe with our Better Skin Lava Magik, made with French Lava. After an awesome exfoliation, rinse and moisturize with Better Skin Mirakle Cream.

For a quick scrub, try this is the shower.

Murphy D. Bishop, II

Cofounder, The Better Skin Co. Visit The Better Skin Co. flagship location at: LUSH Home • Garden • Event 1910 Government Street, Mobile, AL

PINK

WOMEN & WEALTH

TABLE TALK With the massive, continuous onslaught of troubling news as of late, it’s safe to say we’re all experiencing record-high levels of anxiety and stress.

Now more than ever, the importance of implementing a self-care routine is crucial.

Just like the airplane safety briefings suggest: “Place the oxygen mask over your own mouth and nose before assisting others.” Below you’ll find a few of Charlotte Kilborn Carey’s top survival tips.

H

eightened feelings of angst are a normal response to the events happening around the world.

However, our physical reactions to stress and anxiety can cause long-term health issues like heart disease, obesity, depression, skin and hair issues, and more.

We’re equipped to handle small doses, but when stress starts to manifest itself with symptoms like headaches and sleep loss, it’s time to put on the big girl proactive panties.

Fortunately, technology can lead us to better health. I am obsessed with the Calm app! A friend introduced me for help in falling asleep, but it offers everything you never knew you needed (Who knew listening to John McEnroe explain the rules of tennis could lull you into the most amazing slumber?). Whether new to meditation or a pro, it guides you through offerings from help with anxiety and inner peace to relationships and more. My child’s theater director uses Calm to begin rehearsals to center and focus the kids. Genius! They offer a free trial (but full-disclosure, I bought a subscription).

Music and sound waves can shift our minds into a more relaxed, meditative state. The right music can create a positive shift in the nervous system resulting in a more balanced state.

Interior designers are incorporating soundscapes to encourage wellness in living spaces. The music of Steven Halpern and his theta recordings are great examples to try on Spotify and YouTube. Nue Co. uses data based on the connection between the olfactory system and cognitive function to create a scent designed to help you reset during stressful times. Having used it for months, I love spritzing the calming scent on my neck and wrists. *Admittedly, I’ve been using it a lot more since virtual school started!* If movement clears your mind, celebrities like Naomi Watts and Emma Stone are devotees of mind/body workouts @TheClass streams from their studio in TriBeCa — no equipment needed. Now is also a great time to try yoga. My friend Alice Arthur, a yogi (and pretty famous photographer), turned me on to Clearlightyoga.com with Michael Johnson in Asheville, N.C. If you’re hardcore, mypeakchallenge.com has a free trial social distancing workout. Hunky “Outlander” star Sam Heughan started this global workout/philanthropic initiative and has given over $4 million to charities. Get buff while giving… BONUS! Hopefully you will be inspired to begin a self-care routine so when this tumultuous time passes, you’ll not only be ready for the next challenge, but you’ll have taken great care of No. 1!

See you on the Pink Carpet soon!

In these uncertain and unprecedented times, financial advisor Kristin Phillips shares her perspective. From the volatile market to straight-up fear, she believes it boils down to having a listening ear and an informed (yet emphatic) coach. In fact, it’s trying times like these that can show going it alone may not be in our best long-term interest.

Dear Friends, In 1776, Thomas Paine began The American Crisis with these words: “THESE are the times that try men’s souls.” How apropos are his words today, some 244 years later? Let us take it further, with respect to finances: “THESE are the times that try our financial goals.”

When the markets turn as volatile and confusing as they have been since late February of this year, even the most patient investors may come to question the wisdom of the investment plan they’ve been following. As a financial advisor, I have seen a lot of difficult markets come and go, and can certainly empathize with people who find the current environment troublesome. You wouldn’t be human if you weren’t feeling this.

However, you don’t have to go this alone. I believe a listening ear, an empathetic voice of reason, and a portfolio review can go a long way to help quell anxiety during times of uncertainty like this.

I believe investor behavior is, arguably, the single biggest determinant of the success (or failure) of a portfolio. In times like these, human beings tend to act (or REACT) emotionally. And I feel it is times like these when the importance of having a good “coach” comes into play. This is why investors engage advisors: to help them make rational long-term decisions in periods of economic and/or market stress. I invite you to do the same, as I believe our clients often find such conversations helpful.

If you haven’t talked to yours already, schedule a phone conversation with an advisor (in this time of social distancing). We are here for you.

BE WELL! Until Next Time,

Kristin Phillips Financial Advisor Wells Fargo Advisors 251.621.4807 kristin.phillips2@wellsfargo.com CAR-0320-04102

These opinions expressed here reflect the judgement of the author as of the date of the article. The material has been prepared or is distributed solely for information purposes and is not a solicitation or an offer to buy any security or instrument or to participate in any trading strategy.

Investment and Insurance Products: NOT FDIC-Insured/NO Bank Guarantee/MAY Lose Value Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, is a registered broker-dealer and a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.

“ PRICE IS WHAT YOU PAY VALUE IS WHAT YOU GET ” - WARREN BUFFETT

CHOOSE WISELY. CHOOSE THE BEST.