Tim Rudolph, MD Hamilton General Hospital Hospital ER
Luke Killian, MD Hamilton General Hospital Hospital ER
Brad Bartels, MD Hamilton General Hospital Hospital ER
Gerald Snyder, MD Hamilton Clinic
Charles Johnson, MD Hamilton Clinic Hico Clinic
Shalor Craig, MD Hamilton Clinic Hico Clinic
Shelly Lengefeld, PA-C Hamilton Clinic
Ryan Adams, MD General Surgery Specialty Services
William Moore, MD Interventional Pain Management Specialty Services
Keith Ellison, MD Orthopedics Specialty Services
Kristen Stegemoller, MD FPC Mills County
Jim Davis, OD, FAAO Central Texas Eye Care
Jacque Wellborn, FNP-BC Hico Clinic Wound Care
Jennifer Plumlee, FNP-BC Wound Care
John Seth, APRN, FNP-C FPC Mills County
Trevor Watson, APRN, FNP-C FPC Mills County
PHOTOS BY KIM HINTON
preventionHydration
Water makes up 75% of your brain, 75% of your muscles, 22% of your bones and 83% of your blood.
The importance of 60% of the human body is WATER
eight ounce glasses of water per day, or half a gallon, of water per day is recommened for hydration but more may be required with heat exposure and activity. 8
Children can overheat faster than adults when the outside temperature is higher than their body temperature.
Common signs of dehydration are feeling tired, overheated, chronic joint pain and headaches.
2024 DOVE RUN 5K
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is responsible for numerous vital functions in the body including:
• regulating body temperature.
• aiding in digestion and absorbtion of nutrients.
• flushing out waste.
• moistening oxygen for breathing.
• lubricating joints.
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freshLight &
Health Benefits of Watermelon
Watermelon may be the perfect refreshing fruit on a hot summer day. As its name implies, it is 92 percent water.
• Fights disease
Lycopene gives watermelon its rich red color. It, along with vitamin C, carotenoids and cucurbitacin E, help combat free radicals protecting against diseases like cancer and diabetes.
• Relieves muscle soreness
Watermelon Cucumber Balsamic
Salad
•
Watermelon may aid in exercise recovery by reducing the lactate buildup that leads to post-workout muscle soreness. It contains citrulline, an amino acid that improves blood flow and muscle function.
Improves skin health
Eating watermelon could boost collagen production, slowing age-related effects on skin. The high water content in watermelon keeps skin hydrated while the Vitamin A and B6 it contains help repair skin cells and prevent acne.
Serves 6
Bright and flavorful, this summer-inspired refreshing salad can be served as a side, or add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a main dish.
INGREDIENTS:
4 cups watermelon, cubed
2 cups cucumber, cubed
½ cup red onion, sliced
¼ cup basil, chopped
2 Tbsp olive oil
½ cup balsamic vinegar
2 ounces fat free feta cheese, crumbled
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Mix together watermelon, cucumber, red onion and basil.
2. Mix together olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then pour over the watermelon mixture.
3. Top with feta cheese and enjoy!
Per serving: 110 calories, 4.5g total fat, .5g saturated fat, 0g trans fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 150g sodium, 14g total carbohydrate, 1g dietary fiber, 11g sugars, 4g protein, 75 mg calcium,1 mg iron, 213 mg potassium.
Serves 6
Watermelons are the state’s largest annual horticultural crop with more than 42,000 acres grown in 100+ counties.
Health Benefits of Cucumbers
Commonly thought to be a vegetable, cucumber is a fruit. Not only is it 96 percent water, but cucumbers are also packed with nutrients.
• Reduces cancer risk
Cucumbers contain high amounts of antioxidants and a plant compound called Cucurbitacin B (CuB) which may be useful in combating liver, breast, lung and prostate cancer.
• Supports healthy weight
Cucumbers are low on the glycemic index. They are also low in calories and high in both water content and soluble fiber, making them ideal for promoting hydration and aiding in weight loss.
• Boosts heart health
High in potassium, cucumbers may help lower blood pressure. The CuB found in cucumbers may help protect hearts from atherosclerosis, fatty buildup on artery walls.
3rd ranks U.S. in the in watermelon production
Aguas Frescas Cucumber and Lime
No Sugar -- only freshness. Flavor your hydration with aguas frescas. “Fresh waters” are light refreshing beverages made from blended ripe fruit.
INGREDIENTS:
2 medium cucumbers, peeled and sliced
5 cups water, divided
1 lime with peel, wedged
1 cup ice
INSTRUCTIONS:
Serves 8
Serving Size 1 cup
Texas A&M Agrilife Extension
1. Combine cucumbers with 3 cups of water in the bender until liquified.
2. Using a strainer over the mouth of a 2-quart pitcher, pour half of the cucumber mixture slowly to strain the liquid.
3. Add the wedges of lime to the other half of the cucumber mixture in the blender. Blend together for a few seconds until chopped into medium-sized pieces. *NOTE: Blending the lime for longer into smaller pieces may give a bitter taste.
4. Pour the remaining mixture over the strainer.
5. Add 2 cups of water and ice to the pitcher and stir well.
Per serving: 10 calories, 0g total fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 0g sodium, 2g total carbohydrate, 1g dietary fiber, 1g sugars, 0g protein, 13 mg calcium,104 mg potassium.
Christie Keay County Extension Agent
picnic
ncooked food or leftovers that haven’t been stored properly can host microorganisms that when consumed make people very sick. Scientists know of more than 250 viruses, parasites and bacteria that can infest food items causing illness.
The most common types of foodborne illness in the U.S. are Norovirus, Salmonella, Clostridium perfringens, Campylobacter and Staphylococcus aureus (Staph).
These illnesses usually cause stomach upset, cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and fever that can last a few hours or several days. Children, older adults, the immunocompromised
Protecting your Clean often.
and pregnant women are at higher risk for food poisoning. Most cases of food poisoning get better within a few days, but some cases require help from a doctor. If you suspect you have a foodborne illness, you should call your doctor for advice.
Rates of food poisoning increase in summer months because bacteria grow faster in warmer weather. Eating food left in the Danger Zone, 40°F to 140°F, for longer than two hours can make people sick.
This summer, work hard to avoid being one of the 48 million Americans who get food poisoning every year. Let’s raise a glass of iced tea to well-cooked burgers, rinsed veggies and chilled fruit salad!
Kim Edwards, RN, CIC, is the infection control nurse for Hamilton Healthcare System. With 27 years of nursing experience, she is dedicated to educating others and promoting illness prevention.
Your hands can be transferring germs from one food item to another. Wash your hands often while preparing food or putting it away. Always use soap and warm water and scrub your hands for 20 seconds. Make sure you clean tools and surfaces in the food preparation area, including cutting boards and utensils. Warm soapy water is effective at removing germs from surfaces. Rinse fruits and vegetables under running water.
Welcome to HAMILTON’S HISTORIC MAIN STREET this
Tips for preventing foodborne illness:
• Keep raw meat, poultry and seafood chilled in the fridge or in an insulated cooler, below 40°F, until ready to grill.
• Store leftovers in the freezer or fridge within two hours of cooking or one hour if above 90°F outside. Throw away perishable food that isn’t refrigerated.
• Cook meat thoroughly. Use a food thermometer to make sure meat is cooked hot enough to kill germs. You can’t tell just by looking at it! (145°F for beef, pork, fish; 160°F for hamburgers and ground meat; 165°F for chicken or turkey). Never partially grill meat and finish cooking it later.
• When smoking meat, keep the temperature inside the smoker at 225°F to 300°F.
• Keep cooked meats hot and out of the Danger Zone before serving.
• Throw away or thoroughly cook marinades and sauces that have touched raw meat or seafood.
• Transfer cooked meat to a clean plate.
• Keep raw meats away from cooked, ready-toeat food and drinks.
• Don’t use the same utensils on raw foods and cooked, ready-to-eat foods.
Market in the Park
Shop local farmers, crafters and artisans every 2nd Saturday through October 12 in the J.L. Hamilton Plaza just off the downtown square.
Oktoberfest
Enjoy vendors, live music and more on October 12 in historic downtown Hamilton.
imagine the possibilities
Turn your dreams into reality. Tour turnkey opportunities available in Hamilton’s Historic Main Street on October 12.
halloween on the square
Bring the kids to Hamilton’s historic square for safe trick-or-treating, a trunk or treat and carnival games sponsored by Hamilton Band Boosters.
For more information or to subscribe to our monthly newsletter 254-784-5610 • mainstreet@hamiltontx.com
Kim Edwards, RN CIC Infection Control Employee Health
Choose this before that r
Tips for Eating Out
• Be mindful of portions.
Instead of super sizing, opt for smaller portions when there’s a choice. Ask for the “kids menu” or “senior menu” for smaller portions. Share an entree or take half home to enjoy for another meal.
• Beware of high-calorie add-ons.
Choose low- or fat-free vinaigrettes on salads, or use oil and vinegar and/or a squeeze of lemon. Ask that sauces and dressings be served on the side.
• Choose grilled over fried.
Foods that are baked, steamed, roasted, blackened, broiled or grilled are healthier than fried, creamed, crispy, smothered, stuffed and breaded.
Choose this before that r
healthy eating
Do you have some good “choose this, not that” suggestions for dining out?
Best to choose menu items that are “baked, steamed, roasted, blackened, broiled or grilled” rather than “fried, creamed, crispy, smothered, stuffed and breaded” for generally lower-calorie meals.
What are the best foods to choose at the hotel continental breakfast? Foods to avoid?
Avoid highly processed foods like pastries and sugary cereals. There are usually healthier options available such as eggs, peanut butter, yogurts and whole grain cereals and/or breads. Skip the juice and opt for fresh fruit.
What kind of go-to healthy snacks do you recommend that are easily portable for plane or long car rides?
the day. Fresh fruits, sliced cucumbers, mint or sugarfree water enhancers can add variety. If you’re traveling and not on your usual schedule, it can be difficult to remember to stay hydrated. Set phone timers and reminders to help stay on track.
How can we indulge in new culinary delights and beverages on vacation without losing sight of health goals?
There is no issue with enjoying new foods on vacation or off, and nothing should be completely “off limits.” Instead, we would benefit from focusing on smaller portion sizes of these high-calorie treats. Be mindful of the other foods included in the diet and try to find balance with plenty of vegetables, lean proteins and high-fiber carbohydrates.
Mixed nuts and seeds, whole grain crackers and nut butter, drinkable soups, carrot sticks and hummus, fruits and popcorn.
What are your best tips to stay hydrated while traveling or on vacation?
Make drinking more convenient; keep a reusable water bottle with you at all times. You will be more likely to sip on it throughout
Krista Lindley has worked as a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator since 2012 at Hamilton Healthcare System. In addition to diabetes education, Krista also conducts nutrition and weight loss counseling. Call Krista at 254-386-1531.
52nd Annual Dove Festival
Krista Lindley, MS, RD, LD, CDCES Diabetes Coordinator
Hummus Extra Easy eating on-the-go
Packed with protein and fiber, hummus is a satisfying snack that's easy to take on the go. Pair it with raw veggies, whole grain crackers or spread it on a sandwich.
INGREDIENTS:
1 15-ounce can of unsalted garbanzo beans, drained liquid reserved
1 garlic clove crushed
2 tsp ground cumin
¼ tsp salt
1 Tbsp olive oil
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine all ingredients.
2. Blend on low speed, gradually adding reserved bean liquid until desired consistency is achieved.
Per serving: 180 Calories, 7g total fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 410 g sodium, 25g total carbohydrate, 7g dietary fiber, 4g sugars, 8g protein, 56 mg calcium,137 mg potassium. Serves 4
Irritable bowel syndrome is a diagnosis of exclusion meaning that it is important that we rule out other things like colon cancer, celiac’s disease, ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s. These all have similar symptoms.
What are symptoms of IBS?
M.D.
They vary by person but may include constipation, diarrhea or alternating between the two, stomach cramping and nausea. Not vomiting usually.
What are normal bowel habits?
There is not a good answer for this because everyone is different. For example, some people have bowel movements every day, some people have them three times a day and some people have one every three days. These can all be normal. The issue is when it interferes with life. If you can’t leave the house, sit through a meeting or have a fear of not finding a bathroom quickly.
What causes IBS?
IBS is multifunctional. Some people may be sensitive to foods or sometimes it's related to psychiatrics like anxiety.
Is it genetic?
To my knowledge, I don’t think it’s genetic. However, some of the contributors, like anxiety, might be genetic.
Is IBS something you are born with or does it develop as we age?
Our bowels definitely change as we age. They slow down as we age, so you may experience issues later in life. I think a lack of activity may be a problem that influences bowel changes. We tend to be active in our teens. In our 40s, we try to hit the gym once in a while and by our 60s maybe not as often. This slows the bowels down.
What can trigger IBS?
For some people, a sensitivity to foods. Gluten is in the media a lot. True celiacs is an allergy to gluten, but some are sensitive to gluten, but not technically allergic. Lactose intolerance is another example.
How is IBS treated?
There are some medicines that work. Newer medicines have been developed in the last decade or so.
How can we improve gut health?
Gut health in general can be improved with probiotics, especially if you are having issues. Activia yogurt has good, friendly bacteria that can improve gut health. Whether its
At locally-owned Jordan Pharmacy, we are here when you need us, just like your favorite horse. You can depend on us for quality, accuracy and convenience.
If you have IBS, should you consider colonoscopy screening at a younger age than the recommended 45?
If you feel you don’t have normal bowels, it’s a good idea to have a colonoscopy. The recommendation is beginning at age 45 with no family history. If everything comes back normal, repeat in 10 years. The idea behind that is that is how long it takes those polyps to grow into cancer.
If you have any symptoms, especially bleeding, diarrhea and discomfort that keeps you from normal activities, yes, you should get that checked out. Colonoscopy is the primary screening for all of those things.
If you have a first degree relative who has been diagnosed with colon cancer, the recommendation is that you get your colonoscopy 10 years earlier than the age your relative was at the time of diagnosis. For example, if your relative was 50 years old when they were diagnosed, you should have your first colonoscopy at age 40.
Now, there are other options. Cologuard® is where you send a sample in and it tests for the DNA of colon polyps and cancer. If the Cologuard® comes back positive, you will need a colonoscopy. If you don’t have any symptoms, your colonoscopy is considered a
screening by your health insurance. If you have a positive, your colonoscopy becomes diagnostic which is handled differently by your insurance. Cologuard is significantly less invasive. The data is pretty good. There have been a few false positives, but most of the time we find something in pathology.
Why are colonoscopies so important?
Colon cancer is very preventable and/ or treatable if caught early. During the colonoscopy, we can remove the polyps that are precancerous, preventing cancer from occurring. Colonoscopies are very safe. We use propofol for our sedative, so you go to sleep quick and wake up quickly. We don’t even have to use a breathing tube. It’s much safer than the anesthesia used in general surgery even.
A Hamilton native, Charles Johnson, M.D. joined the Family Practice Rural Health Clinic in 2011 and the Hico Clinic soon after. He is also a colonoscopist at Hamilton General Hospital. Dr. Johnson received his M.D. from the Texas A&M Health Science Center's College of Medicine in 2008. He and his wife, Dawn, live in Hamilton with their two children.
CHRONIC CARE SERVICES
KIDNEY Keep Rolling specialist
t’s summer time in Central Texas, and if forecasters are right, it’s looking to be a long, HOT one. And although the Hamilton County cowboys and ranchers are some of the toughest folks I know, there is one teeny-tiny heat-related problem that can bring even the toughest cowhand to his knees: kidney stones!
What is a kidney stone? How do they form?
Kidney stones are exactly what they sound like–stones! If you were to hold one in your hand, it would feel like a pebble. Our kidneys are like the water treatment plant: they filter all of our blood and pull out the unnecessary stuff, and those substances get dumped into the urine so they can be sent out of the body. When the filtration system is not working right, there can be too many unnecessary solutes, particles and chemicals in the urine, and those can stick
together to form stones. The most common type of stone is a Calcium stone.
What are the signs I may have a kidney stone?
A stone sitting in your kidney usually doesn’t cause a problem. But when the stone starts to pass down to the bladder, it can plug up the urine drainage pipe, the ureter, and that’s when the trouble starts. Patients often feel severe, unbearable pain in their flank, and they almost always have nausea and/ or vomiting. The pain often hurts so much you can’t sit still, and we often see patients doing the “stone dance” while they’re waiting in the ER. Blood in the urine, groin pain and even urinary frequency may be signs of a passing stone.
How can stones be treated?
There are multiple ways to treat kidney stones, and the treatment depends on two factors: how big the stone is, and where it is located. Stones smaller than five millimeters can often be passed with just medications and drinking lots of water. Stones larger than that almost always require surgery for removal. Stones can be broken up with non-invasive shock waves, or sometimes
we will pass a camera and laser into the kidney through the bladder to blow the stones into pieces and pull them out. Really big stones sometimes require us to actually puncture into the kidney through your back and use a special jackhammer to pulverize the stones. Certain stones can be dissolved with medication, but these stones are unfortunately very rare.
What can I do to prevent getting stones?
Water, water, water! The most important thing you can do to prevent stones is drink tons of water. If you really want to decrease your risk of stones, your goal should be to urinate 2.5 liters every day–that’s a lot of fluid! Especially when it’s hot outside and you’re sweating, it’s very easy to get dehydrated; and that makes more stones. Other diet changes can prevent stones as well, and I’ve listed some of these in a table for you.
So, if you want to avoid a rocky summer, make sure you remember to hydrate! If you think you may have a kidney stone, feel free to call our office at 254-741-6113, and ask for Dr. Tyler Stewart’s team.
COMPOUNDING EXCELLENCE
Our state-of-the-art prescription compounding facilities, experience in veterinary compounding, and warmly holistic approach truly set us apart. At McMahan Pharmacy Services, Inc., our reputation has been built by using the purest pharmaceuticals combined with the latest technology. Our dedication to providing customers with continued excellence is inherent in our service and preparations.
CHRONIC CARE MANAGEMENT
Chronic Care Management is care coordination for patients with two or more chronic medical conditions. Chronic Care Management helps the patient reach better health outcomes and quality of life. By focusing on your chronic care conditions more often, you decrease the risk of trips to the emergency room, hospital, and declining health status.
Tyler Stewart, M.D. Urologist
Hamilton Family Practice Clinic
• Water
• Lemonade, limeade, Sprite, water with lemon
• Low salt diet
• Citrus fruits MAKE STONES
• Leafy, green vegetables (spinach, salad)
• Nuts
• Beets
• Tea
Dr. Tyler A. Stewart is a Urologist with Ascension Medical Group Providence Urology in Waco. He graduated at the top of his class at the UT Health Science Center in San Antonio. Dr. Stewart has received multiple awards such as the Endoscopic Excellence Award, the Preston Littrell "Best Resident" Award and multiple UTHSCSA Urology Department awards among others. He treats men and women of all ages and sees patients at the Family Practice Rural Health Clinic in Hamilton.
KIDNEY STONES PREVENT STONES
Volunteers Making a Difference in Healthcare
Because we care, Hamilton Healthcare System Hospital Auxiliary Team is committed to making a difference in the lives of our visitors and healthcare team by furnishing requested items, hosting employee appreciation events, coordinating Lifeline and providing scholarships for youth pursuing medical careers.
hether a colonoscopy, back injection, knee replacement or mastectomy, surgery can be an anxious time.
The trusted surgeons at Hamilton General Hospital offer a wide variety of pain management, orthopedic, foot, eye and general surgical services.
Dr. William Moore commonly performs back injections, kyphoplasty, nerve impingement, implants and spinal cord stimulation to help manage pain.
Knee and shoulder replacements, rotator cuff repair, sport injury repair and fracture care are routinely performed by orthopedic surgeon Dr. Keith Ellison.
General surgeon Dr. Ryan Adams performs a wide range of surgeries, including colonoscopies, gallbladder, skin cancer removal, hernia repair and surgical options for breast cancer.
Hometown doctors Randy Lee, Charles Johnson and Tim Rudolph also provide colonoscopy services.
Consulting and courtesy staff offer podiatry and cataract surgeries through HGH.
Surgeries are performed Monday through Friday at HGH so patients never have to leave home.
Becky McKee, RN, leads the surgery department team which has grown from three to seven in the last ten years.
“We have grown tremendously,” said Becky.
HGH averages 65 to 75 surgeries per month, not including 20-25 pain management procedures.
The surgery team is comprised of an experienced, knowledgeable group averaging around 20 years of nursing and surgical experience each.
“We work really closely with each other,” said Leah Rogers, RN.
A familiar face to many patients, Leah has 40 years of nursing experience and has served in the clinic, on the floor and in the Wound Care department.
“We joke around a lot,” she said. “It makes our patients feel comfortable. A lot of times they thank us as they walk out.”
“I love my work family, and I love my job,” said Jennifer Craig, a
Surgery
scrub tech with the team for 20 years.
Alanda Tyson, RN, is usually one of the first people patients see when they come in for surgery. She has been with the team for 20 years.
Her calming, peaceful presence aids in comforting nervous patients.
“Lots of times, they are most nervous about the IV,” she said. “Mental imagery helps. I like the patient relationship. I like being a part of fixing the problem.”
“I like fixing ailments to help patients feel better,” said scrub tech Christi Walters, LVN. “When they feel better, that’s my reward.”
“I love connecting with patients,” said Maria Cruz, RN, the newest member of the team and also fluent in Spanish.
“I’ve done this so long it just comes naturally,” said Sue Peterson, RN, who has been a nurse for 29 years. She joined the HGH surgery team two years ago and is often the first person patients see upon waking after surgery.
“I encourage them in recovery,” she said.
Sue became a surgery nurse because she’d been on the other side of the bed as a young child.
“I remember who made me feel good,” she said.
The team wouldn’t be complete without anesthesiologists CRNAs Brad Fielder, Chad Coulter and Saul Martinez.
“A lot of places don’t provide anesthesia for pain management,” said Sue. “That’s a big plus.”
When preparing for surgery, the team gives these tips: know your medicines, and follow pre-surgery instructions.
“An accurate medicine list is very important,” said Alanda. “Ozempic is a medicine no matter where you get it, from a boutique spa or a doctor.”
“Some people don’t consider over-the-counter medicines like aspirin and vitamins,” said Sue, noting that those should be on the medicine list.
“It’s really important to follow the instructions,” said Becky, who calls patients before surgery to go over health history and instruction for surgery.
From the initial phone call through the post-surgery check-up call, the surgical team at HGH takes pride in providing an exceptional surgical experience. surgical team at HGH takes pride in providing an exceptional surgical
Focused Orthopedic Care
Keith Ellison, MD
At Hamilton Healthcare System, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Ellison provides evaluation and treatment for a wide variety of orthopedic conditions.
Common Procedures Include:
Rotator Cuff Repairs
Fracture Care & Surgeries
Knee Replacements
Shoulder Replacements
Trigger Finger Release
Carpal Tunnel Release
Dr. Ellison is currently seeing patients in Hamilton and Goldthwaite.
Call to schedule an appointment today!
Carl G. Chakmakjian, D.O., FACP • Tyler W. Snedden, M.D. • Thomas J. Harris, M.D. • Rachel Ramsey, NP, AOCNP Carlos A. Encarnación, M.D., FACP • Ofobuike N. Okani, M.D., FACP • Katie Bone, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC Dawn Turner, RN, FNP-C, AOCNP • Justin W. Wray, M.D., Ph.D.
When you’re treated at Texas Oncology, you’re getting leading edge cancer care right here in Waco. Our physicians provide compassionate patient care, offer the latest treatment innovations and share one goal: to make sure every Texan can receive recognized cancer care in their community.
Texas Oncology–Waco
1700 W. State Hwy. 6 Waco, TX 76712 • 254-399-0741
Texas Oncology–Horizon Circle 6520 Horizon Circle Waco, TX 76712 • 254-755-4460
Additional locations in Clifton, Gatesville, Groesbeck, Hamilton, Hillsboro and Mexia.
BLAKE'S BATTLE with Colon
BY KYMBIRLEE JESCHKE
he C-word wasn’t on Blake Edwards' mind when he was diagnosed with colon cancer last May.
The healthy, active father of three was only 41 years old and had undergone a remarkable wellness transformation just months earlier.
“I called Ray on Sept. 21, 2022,” said Blake of his weight loss journey at Elevate Fitness. “My goal was to be at 185 by April. I hit 170 pounds in December. It came off fast.”
He ended up losing 50 pounds. While Blake was looking healthier and feeling stronger, he was experiencing serious digestive issues.
“I had had stomach issues for years,” he said, listing symptoms like cramps, pains, upset stomach and “weird spasms.”
Pepto and Imodium were short-term fixes but never lasted long. Going somewhere took planning.
“I’d think, ‘I’m going to eat and have to go to the bathroom,’” he said.
It became his norm.
On May 19, Blake, an ag teacher at Zephyr High School, participated in a student versus faculty basketball game.
“It was my first year back to teaching,” he said. “Coming down the court is a senior who outweighs me by a good 30 pounds. He ran right over the top of me – not on purpose – but he knocked me down.”
By Monday, Blake was hurting. He wasn’t eating and couldn’t go to the bathroom.
“I was in severe pain,” he said. “It had me doubled over, so I stayed home from school.”
Tuesday, he awoke to more of the same. His wife, Gayle, was concerned.
“I was worried,” she said. “I knew something wasn’t right. I had never seen him in so much pain.”
“Tuesday night, Gayle said, ‘You have to go to the clinic,’” he said. “I told her if I didn’t feel better by Wednesday, I’d call the clinic.”
By Wednesday morning, Blake wasn’t better, so he went to see Kaleb Davis, FNP, at Hamilton’s Family Practice Rural Health Clinic.
“This is the beautiful part,” said Blake. “When I walked in, the first person I see is the receptionist, Sharon Sellers. I’ve known her all my life. It was that way from the minute I walked in all the way through the process.”
Blake doesn’t remember it taking very long
Blake and Gayle Edwards with children Finn, Stevie and Fischer
BATTLE Cancer
for Davis to make his diagnosis and send him next door to Hamilton General Hospital for testing.
“He could have sent him for an ultrasound,” said Gayle. “That wouldn’t have picked up the blockage.”
She remembers that Davis started to order the ultrasound, paused then said, “Let’s do the CT.”
Blake and Gayle will forever be grateful for that moment. They credit Davis’ knowledge and intuition to saving Blake’s life.
Ray’s City Drug
At radiology, Blake saw another friendly face, Kristina Burks.
“You want Hamilton Healthcare System on your side. Everything is here.”
Amid the pain and confusion, Blake said he found such comfort and reassurance in familiar faces, but admits it was a little awkward, too.
“I’m glad to see these faces I know, but at the same time, I have to share my symptoms. I have to say, ‘I can’t crap,’” he said. This is where things get a little fuzzy for Blake.
“I can hear the CT tech when he gets on the phone,” he remembers. “I hear the urgency in his voice and he’s telling someone that they need to get me to the ER.”
The first person he sees in the ER is Dr. Randy Lee, another familiar, trusted face.
“The C-word starts to come out in the background,” said Blake. “Dr. Lee is barking orders. I remember looking at the nurse and saying, ‘Is he always like this?’ She told me, ‘Sometimes.’ I told her, ‘Well, tell him to calm down,’ and she looked at me like, ‘I’m not going to say that to him.’”
In the ER, Blake is given something for the pain.
“There was so much going on, so much information thrown around and I don’t understand the complexity, the urgency,” he remembers. “I don’t have time to process.”
Dr. Lee showed Gayle the CT images.
“He took me back and let me look,” she said. “He said this could be scar tissue from an appendectomy, inflammation from his upset stomach or it could be a growth. It could be cancerous.”
Dr. Ryan Adams, Hamilton Healthcare System’s general surgeon, was in Goldthwaite that day. Dr. Lee sent him the images, and he called back to have Blake prepped for immediate surgery.
“He was the first one to say, ‘It’s probably cancer,’” remembers Blake.
Dr. Adams explained that he would be performing a colon resection to remove the mass. During the procedure, he would also have to remove a part of Blake’s colon. If the mass was too big or the section too long, Blake would need a colostomy bag.
Jeff and Nikki Alsabrook, owners • Cindy Kinsey RPh/PIC • David Cleveland RPh
“I did not want that,” said Blake.
In surgery, Blake found another familiar face.
“There was Aunt Becky, my nephew’s aunt,” he said. Becky McKee is the head of the surgery department. Her calm presence was a lifeline for Blake.
“She probably doesn’t know how much she meant to him that day,” said Gayle, explaining that Blake was so worried about the possibility of the colostomy bag that it was the first thing he asked about when he came out of surgery.
“Aunt Becky” was the first person Blake saw when he woke up after surgery.
“I looked at her and asked, ‘Are we all good?’” he said. “She said ‘Yeah, you’re all good.’ Getting that all good from Becky was a comfort.”
Blake spent three nights in the hospital. He said the people made a positive difference for him during a tumultuous time.
“Knowing you’re undergoing a lifechanging experience,” he said. “Just having those people, like Dr. Lee, Kaleb, Becky, Sharon and Kristina, there in those stages as you go through them, it was huge.”
Even though he couldn’t eat a lot, Blake remembers the food -- the scrambled eggs in particular.
“Whoever is in the kitchen is on point,” said Blake. “The food is really good.”
On June 2, Blake got the results of his biopsy. It was cancer. Since it had traveled to his lymph nodes, it was Stage 3.
“When we got the diagnosis, my approach was like it was when I was prepping for a football game in high school,” he said. “Give me the playbook, and tell me what I’ve got to do. I’ll figure out how to win.”
Through Hamilton Healthcare System, Blake met with Dr. Carlos Encarnacion, an oncologist with Texas Oncology, on June 14. Dr. E, as he’s known to his patients, sees patients at the Hamilton Family Practice Rural Health Clinic. He would give Blake his playbook, but there was one huge hurdle.
Blake didn’t have insurance. Self-pay was not an option.
“They wouldn’t take us without insurance, so we had to find a temporary insurance to get us to open enrollment at school on Sept. 1,” he said. “It’s tough. No one wants to take you when you’ve been diagnosed with cancer. A lady in Waco finally pieced it together.”
Blake traveled to Waco Aug. 14 to start chemotherapy.
“That stuff is nasty,” he said. “It accumulates and gets progressively worse. The first couple, you don’t react to as much, but the further and further you go, it beats you down. Chemo is not fun.”
He had to take 12 rounds every two weeks for six months. He would get two administered in the office, and one he’d wear home in a pack on his hip.
The nausea medication gave him debilitating migraine headaches. Sometimes
90% 1 24in
One in 24 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in their lifetime.
45
The American Cancer Society recommends people begin screening for colon cancer at age 45. However, those with family history should be screened earlier. years
With early detection, colorectal cancer has a 90% survival rate.
Colorectal Cancer Alliance
Know the symptoms of colorectal cancer:
• Change in bowl habits
Changing bowel habits include diarrhea, constipation, narrowing of the stools, and/or feeling like your bowels are not completely empty, even after having a bowel movement.
• Persistent abdominal discomfort
Abdominal discomfort can cause feelings such as pain, nausea, cramping, bloating, and/or feeling unusually full, even when you haven’t eaten much.
• Rectal bleeding
You might notice bright red blood.
• Weakness and/or fatigue
Weakness and/or fatigue may be a sign of colorectal cancer and may be accompanied by anemia or a low red blood cell count.
• Unexplained weight loss
You should always seek medical attention if you are losing weight for no known reason.
There may be no symptoms!
he’d opt out of the nausea medication so he could function without a headache.
“I’d vomit all the way home,” he said, “but no headache.”
Through it all, Dr. E was there.
“He is a good Christian man,” said Blake. “He gets right to the point. Halfway through, I was down and out and just didn’t want to be there. He told me to toughen up and get through it. In that moment, it was what I needed to hear.”
His friends showed up to drive him to treatments.
“There’s this core group of guys I grew up with, and they were just there,” he said.
Blake was surrounded by community --his family, friends, Hamilton community, work family at Zephyr ISD and pig show community across the nation. There was a huge outpouring of love.
Son Fischer’s baseball team had a fundraiser. Zephyr and Hamilton schools collaborated on a T-shirt fundraiser. Fellow staff members donated their sick days to Blake. The high school boys buzzed their heads at a pep rally in show of support. The pig show community held a huge online auction.
“It was a humbling experience,” said Blake. “When you give to someone, it’s a lot easier. That’s your gratitude, your grace.”
“Taking that generosity is really hard,” adds Gayle. “You feel almost guilty because you feel others are in more need.”
People she barely knew were stopping Gayle on the street or going into her store and handing her money.
“You’d say, ‘We are good,'” said Blake. “But
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY AT
Hannah Head Doctor of Occupational Therapy
you’re not. It’s hard.”
“This community, they love Blake. They love Kayla and Randy,” said Gayle.
There are people in town that wouldn’t let them pay for services. Son Finn’s preschool tuition was paid. Medical bills came in the mail with zeroedout balances.
“Does this come from a fund somewhere? Is someone paying them? We don’t know how it works or who you are, but thank you,” said Blake.
Blake finished his chemo on Jan. 26.
“Right after that I got so sick with the flu and pneumonia on top of the flu,” he said. “I lost 27 pounds. It was the sickest I’d ever been. I thought, ‘I survived cancer and chemo and now I’m going to die of the flu.’”
He did get better and has continued to improve this spring.
“I’ve slowly gotten so much better,” he said. “Over the last two months or so I’m getting back to normal and enjoying feeling good. Until you feel good, you don’t know how bad you felt.
“All scans are clear. There is no cancer.”
He does have to go back for a colonoscopy and CAT scan but explains that because of the chemo there is a low rate of recurrence.
“It’ll always be something to watch,” he said. “My brain will always go there.”
Blake says his faith in Christ got him through this journey.
“God has a plan,” he said. “You might not understand it, but trust it. He loves you and wants to have a relationship with you. If you haven’t found Jesus, find Him.”
WHAT IS OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY?
Life is made up of occupations - meaningful activities that you do each day. These occupations can include anything from working, going to school, cooking, cleaning, or spending time with family. Occupational therapists focus on helping you succeed at doing all that you want to do in your daily life.
Occupational therapy can support all ages in gaining or regaining cognitive or physical skills and provide recommendations for:
Daily living activities (bathing, dressing, and eating)
Returning to school, work, or activities
Fall prevention and home accessibility
Planning daily routines
Adaptive equipment such as shower chairs or, or equipment to make daily tasks easier
Common conditions treated by occupational therapy:
Brain Injuries
Stroke
Parkinson’s
Hand Injuries
Developmental Delays
Sensory Processing Disorders
Down Syndrome
Arthritis
Autism
Cerebral Palsy
For questions or to book an appointment please call
Blake’s message now is one of awareness.
“Listen to your body,” he emphasizes. “We know you’re tough, but don’t be stupid. It’s one thing to be tough, another to not listen to your body.”
He urges people to go to the doctor for checkups and screenings. Know your family history.
“My grandad had colon cancer,” he said. “I should have been screened at 35. If I had, maybe we’d have caught it early.”
He also stresses healthy habits like food choices and activity.
Where sugar is concerned, Blake says do your research.
“Do you know how bad sugar is?” he asks, before explaining that during a PET scan, the patient must fast for 48 hours before being injected with radioactive sugar. Since they have been without fuel, the cancer cells in the body are hungry and immediately begin to feed on the sugar, lighting up their location in the body.
“That’s what cancer feeds on; what it lives on,” he said. “There has been a huge uptick in young people getting colon cancer, and it’s because of sugar.”
Blake’s cancer diagnosis made him take a hard look at his lifestyle. He stopped drinking alcohol.
“I was a habitual alcohol user,” he said. “I was drinking a lot of beer and vodka. I justified lots of dumb stuff for a long time.”
“That’s going to surprise a lot of people,” said Gayle.
Blake is proud to be alcohol free for the last year and three months.
“These are the things I did wrong,” he said. “I want people to be aware.”
Blake says his message of awareness is twofold, the first being listening to your body and seeking medical attention, the second being the quality of care provided by Hamilton Healthcare System.
“You want Hamilton Healthcare System on your side,” said Blake.
“Everything is here.”
“It saved us,” added Gayle.
“This is a good thing for Hamilton,” said Blake. “There is an abundance of people who went to high school here, went off to college, came back and made this. They are really, really good. They are a testament to Hamilton.” and made this. They are really, really good. They are a testament to
Support the team that cares for you.
One of the trademarks of a progressive community is strong commitment and support of high quality healthcare services.
Central Texans are fortunate to have outstanding healthcare professionals and facilities in Hamilton, Hico and Goldthwaite, thanks to the foresight, tenacity and stewardship of many of our citizens over the years.
The Hamilton General Hospital Healthcare Foundation, 501(c)3 organization, maintains the legacy of ensuring vital healthcare services now and for the future for Hamilton County and surrounding areas.
Thanks to the generosity of our donors, the Foundation has been instrumental in providing grants for needed equipment and services like the new 3D digital mammography machine and annual community health fair.
Join us in supporting the healthcare team that cares for you.
Donate today.
HAMILTON GENERAL HOSPITAL HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION
Providing excellence in rural healthcare
P.O. Box 788 • Hamilton, Texas 76531
Donate online at hamiltonhospital.org/hghh-foundation.
SUGAR
According to the National Institutes of Health, diets high in simple sugars increase risk of colon cancer.
REDUCE YOUR RISK
Eat Well
Diets high in red meat have been linked to colorectal cancer. Try to keep your red meat intake to 18 ounces per week or less. Processed meats should be avoided if possible. These meats include hot dogs, ham, bacon, and sausage. Cancer risk increases even with low consumption. Diets high in vegetables, fruits and other plant foods reduce risk for many diseases, including colorectal cancer.
Exercise
Increasing your physical activity can reduce your risk of developing colorectal cancer by 30 to 40 percent. 30 to 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day is needed to protect against colorectal cancer.
Avoid Alcohol
Although modest amounts of some alcohols have been linked to protecting against coronary heart disease, alcohol is known to increase cancer risk.
According to the National Cancer Institute, people who regularly drink 3.5 drinks per day have 1.5 times the risk of developing colorectal cancer as nondrinkers or occasional drinkers. If you do chose to drink, try to limit your consumption.
Know your family history
People under the age of 50 make up 10% of colorectal cancer cases in the U.S. and rising. There is an increase in colorectal cancer in young adults.
A family history of colorectal cancer puts you at an increased risk for the disease. A family history is considered to be an immediate family member (parent, brother or sister) or multiple family members with colorectal cancer or polyps.
If you have a family history, you may need to be screened at age 40, or 10 years before the youngest case in your immediate family, whichever is earlier.
Colorectal Cancer Alliance
Life Hacker
Occupational Therapist helps people get back to life
BY KYMBIRLEE JESCHKE
• Help children with disabilities to participate fully in school and social situations
• Aid people recovering from injury or illness to regain skills and manage health
• Provide support for older adults experiencing physical and cognitive changes
annah Head lives life to the fullest. Donning an infectious smile and exuding positivity, she devotes her days to helping others live their lives to the fullest, too.
Hannah is the Occupational Therapist (OT) at Hamilton Healthcare System. Often confused with physical therapy, occupational therapy helps people of all ages do the things they want and need to do using daily activities as therapy. They overlap a bit, but where physical therapy focuses on balance, mobility and strength, occupational therapy encompasses a more comprehensive look at health to include physical, behavioral, cognitive, social and sensory abilities.
“We help people with activities of daily living,” she said. “It’s very holistic. We look at all the things that are needed for successful daily life.”
Hannah works with her clients and their families to set goals, evaluate their wants, needs, strengths, contexts, limitations and occupational risks and help them formulate and integrate a plan so that they can continue doing what they need to do safely.
“We take big things, or activities, analyze and break them down, then pinpoint and work on the little things until they are accomplishing big things,” she said.
For example, she might help someone with low vision caused by macular degeneration or cataracts learn how to adapt to continue enjoying their daily activities.
“We might teach them to use other parts of the vision field, show strategies that help them pay attention to blind spots and teach adaptations to activities like using large fonts and making sure their living areas are well lit,” she said. “Home modification is a big part of what I do.”
She can help people obtain modifications like ramps, bedside toilets, hand rails and grab bars. She equips people living with Parkinsons with weighted utensils so they can feed themselves easier. What she doesn’t know about, she researches and finds.
“We are professional life hackers,” she said. “Can’t wash under your armpits? Here’s a longhandle sponge.”
OTs help people across the lifespan from birth through the golden years.
Everyone has occupations or daily activity requirements. OTs help infants in the NICU with sensory needs and meeting milestones. They work with children who need help regulating their behavior, developing fine motor coordination and even social play. OTs can help teens with autism, for instance, transition from high school to independent living as an adult.
In adults, OTs help people who have experienced trauma, injury or been diagnosed with life-changing health conditions rebuild their independence and get back to participating in daily activities. Sometimes this means learning new ways to perform activities, using assistive devices or modifying the environment to prevent
celebrate small victories
In older adults, OTs can help with fall prevention, memory and problem solving and overcoming difficulties with daily tasks, like cooking, dressing and driving. They can even help with finding caregivers to assist in independent living.
“We work with the family, too,” she said. “It helps to know what kind of support they will have at home.”
Occupational therapy is evidence-based and rooted in science. It works. Hannah knows from personal experience. Her grandmother suffered a stroke in 2011.
“My mom and I took care of her,” she said. “She couldn’t talk and was paralyzed on her left side. I loved watching the occupational therapist with her. She changed so much.”
Hannah’s grandmother never walked again. Eventually the physical therapy stopped, but the occupational therapist stayed with her.
With the last name Head, one might assume Hannah hails from Mills County, but she’s from Palestine. When she and her husband moved to this area a few years ago, they saw the Head name everywhere.
“My husband and I looked at each other and said, ‘Do you think this is the Lord?’ We took it as a sign loud and clear that we were supposed to be here,” she said. “I love it here.”
Hannah graduated from Texas A&M University with a bachelor’s in health science. After seven years of education and training, she got her Doctor of Occupational Therapy from Texas Woman’s University in Denton. Hannah specialized in young adult intellectual and developmental disabilities. At TAMU, she worked with Aggie ACHIEVE, a program for high school students with intellectual and developmental disabilities transitioning to college and then into the workforce.
At Hamilton Healthcare System, Hannah and Occupational Therapy Assistant MacKenzie Parish work alongside the client’s medical team including their practitioner, surgeon, physical therapists and other healthcare professionals to formulate a comprehensive intervention plan. The client is an integral part of the process.
“We make it individualized for wherever you are,” she said. “Sometimes people need rehab. Sometimes it’s environment compensation.”
“We celebrate small victories. I like seeing people making progress, becoming independent and motivated again. A lot of times people don’t realize the progress they’ve made until they get to the end goal.”
go anywhere
Bands are an inexpensive way to get a great workout in anywhere. They are versatile and can be adapted with many exercises that commonly use dumbbells or barbells. Bands are light and compact, making them perfect for travel. “I keep a set in my gym bag and incorporate band work into my own program for mobility and intentionality,” said Hamilton Wellness Center fitness trainer Henley Dean.
Try Henley's go anywhere band workout.
Aim for 2-3 sets, 15 reps each
BANDED OVERHEAD TRICEPS
Stand on the band. Reach behind the head to grasp the band and extend up. Keep the elbows forward.
BANDED GOOD
MORNING
Loop the band around the shoulders. Step feet on the band shoulder width apart. Bend at the waist. Shoulders back. Big chest. Control the eccentric movement, or the going down. Be intentional.
BANDED
SINGLE-LEG RDL
Use a thicker band or double the band to increase tension. Step one foot on the band. Press through that foot while lifting the other leg behind. Control on the way down and get explosive on the way up, the concentric part of the movement. This single-leg version really works balance and stability, but it can be done with both feet down.
BAND WORKOUT
“You’ll feel the burn. Remember to slow down. ” - HENLEY DEAN
Henley is a student at Tarleton State University majoring in kinesiology. She interns as a strength and conditioning coach for Tarleton State athletics and is also instructing the strength and conditioning program at Comanche ISD athletics through Performance Course. Henley is a personal fitness instructor at Hamilton Wellness Center. She currently trains Monday through Thursday from 1 to 5 p.m. and has 30-minute and onehour spots available. Call 254-386-1670 for an appointment.
BANDED ROWS
BANDED SHOULDER RAISE
Stand on the band with arms shoulder-width apart, palms up. Keep the arms straight while pulling the band up to shoulder height. Try lifting them to the side for a lateral raise variation. May feel awkward.
Hook the band on literally anything. You want the band coming straight out from the arm. Big chest. Shoulders back. Pull the band back to your ribs.
BANDED PUSH-UP
Put the band on like a backpack. Step back into a plank position. Brace the core, lowering the body toward the ground then pressing back up.
BANDED BICEP CURLS
BANDED PALOV PRESS
Secure the band to a bed post or sturdy post at chest height. Instead of facing the band, turn so the body is perpendicular to the band. Grasp the band. Brace the core. Extend the arms to press out. Control in and out. Obliques work to stabilize the body during this movement.
Stand on the band with arms shoulder width apart, palms up. Bend the elbows curling hands up toward the shoulders. Keep elbows in toward the body.
Dog Days of Summer Self care during the
ummer can be a fun-filled time full of activities, travel and muchneeded breaks from school and work. Here in Central Texas, summertime can also present challenges with extreme temperatures, which for some, can contribute to a “reverse” Seasonal Affective Disorder effect.
Summer can also be a perfect time to regroup and reconnect with our values and goals, which can help us thrive during this season. Here are some tips for prioritizing your mental health, so you can make the most of your summer!
1. Limit Heat Exposure
This is a type of depression that involves a seasonal pattern and is often more associated with the fall and winter months when we see increased periods of darkness and frigid temperatures. However, a growing body of research suggests that extreme temperatures in the summer months could contribute to changes in mood or exacerbate some existing mental health conditions.
As with any health condition, implementing proactive coping strategies and seeking support when necessary are essential!
Exposure to extreme temperatures places stress on the body and mind, so be sure to limit time outdoors during summer months. It can be beneficial to engage in outdoor activities earlier in the morning or later in the evening, rather than during peak hot parts of the day. Being stuck indoors can be isolating, therefore consider indoor activities for entertainment, to learn a new skill, or to engage in a new hobby can be helpful. Consider activities or volunteer opportunities in the local community, i.e. local events, library, community center, civic theater, churches, etc.
2. Exercise
Summer can be a time when regular exercise routines may fall by the wayside, however a regular exercise regimen can help keep us physically healthy and
boost mood and emotional well-being. Exercise can help to increase brain chemicals and endorphins that support mood stabilization and can improve selfesteem and resilience to stress. Consider indoor opportunities for exercise during the summer months, including the wellness center or gym, walking at a shopping mall or working out in your home!
3. Hydrate to Fuel Mind and Body
Although proper hydration and nutrition are essential throughout the year, they are especially important during the hot months! Dehydration is linked to irritability, confusion, low mood and fatigue, therefore drinking adequate amounts of water is a simple way to help support your mental and emotional wellbeing. It may also be helpful to consider hydrating foods during the summer months. Fruits and vegetables such as cucumbers, strawberries, melons, zucchini and spinach all have high water content and can be wise choices on hot days!
COMING SOON
Brittany Nichols, LCSW Hamilton Family Practice Clinic
healthy mind
4. Sleep
Inadequate sleep duration and poor sleep quality are closely connected to increased stress levels, irritability and low mood. Although routines may be somewhat disrupted during the summer months, it is imperative to prioritize a regular pattern and rhythm to sleep schedules. It can be beneficial to maintain positive habits that support quality sleep, including keeping a consistent bedtime and wake time, limiting alcohol, prioritizing stress management and setting boundaries around screen time.
5. Prioritize Social Connection
Social connectedness is undeniably beneficial for mental and emotional health. Studies suggest strong associations between lack of social connection and rates of loneliness and depression. Being connected to friends, family and community provides a sense of belonging, meaning and fulfillment. Summer can be a great time to reach out to friends or loved ones to engage socially or to explore opportunities for joining a class or attending local events with friends or acquaintances.
Prioritizing mental and emotional health is a year-round journey, and we all need support from time to time! If you are concerned about your own mental health or are noticing signs of worsening symptoms, you may benefit from additional support. Please do not hesitate to reach out to your primary care physician for consultation about what type of support may be best for you.
Brittany Nichols is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 12 years’ experience. She received her Bachelor of Social Work from the University of North Texas and her Master of Social Work from Texas A&M UniversityCommerce. She joined Hamilton Healthcare System in November 2021 and provides counseling through the Family Practice Rural Health Clinic in Hamilton. She is passionate about helping others know their worth and learn to lead happy and fulfilling lives.
INVESTMENTS ALTERNATIVE
Thinking Beyond the Traditional
lternative investments, with unique strategies and structures, can offer different risk return patterns than traditional stocks, bonds and cash. While alternative investments have been around for a long time – especially in institutional circles – they have only become more widely adopted in recent decades through the evolution of more private wealthfriendly investor structures. Some alternative investments have the potential to enhance returns or income. Others provide investors with access to opportunities for strategies that aren’t available within traditional markets. Certain alternative investments can perform as an inflation hedge or help investors manage risk.
universe of stocks, bonds and real assets, this will come at reduced levels of liquidity.
Examples of alternative investments include:
be higher, making them a good risk mitigator or diversifier.
►Private equity: Typically illiquid, private equity involves investments in private companies that aren’t publicly traded on the stock exchange. As companies remain private for longer or do not go public at all, investors in private equity can benefit from private equity’s active role in the operational improvement of those companies and their strategic commitment to long-term growth. The longer-term investment horizon needed by private equity investors allows them the opportunity to diversify their assets and participate in the growth and innovation of private companies.
Investing in alternatives
Alternative investment strategies offer fundamentally a different approach and investor experience than that of publicly traded investments. While they can give you expanded exposure to the investable
►Hedge funds: An investment vehicle that employs a wide variety of specialized strategies to enhance return on income or mitigate risk. These often less-liquid strategies help investors diversity by capturing opportunities such as activist investing, trend following, event-driven or hedged-equity investing. The flexibility of hedge funds to adapt to changing market conditions means that some strategies can thrive during periods of market dislocation where volatility tends to
The foregoing information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that it is accurate or complete, it is not a statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision, and it does not constitutea recommendation. Any opinions are those of the author and not necessarily those of Raymond James.Alternative Investments involve substantial risks that may be greater than those associated with traditional investmentsand may be offered only to clients who meet specific suitability requirements, including minimum net worth tests. Theserisks include but are not limited to: limited or no liquidity, tax considerations, incentive fee structures, speculativeinvestment strategies, and different regulatory and reporting requirements. There is no assurance that any investment will meet itsinvestment objectives or that substantial losses will be avoided.
►Real estate and infrastructure: Alternative investments may also encompass residential, commercial or industrial real estate, or infrastructure projects like roads, bridges and airports. Real assets can also include a tax-advantaged yield component. Alongside enhanced diversification from the ownership of tangible assets, real estate investors often have the potential to reap the benefits of long-term capital appreciation, as the value of real property or infrastructure assets increases over time. Often tied to contracted or regulated revenue, real assets can also provide a hedge against inflation.
Consult with your advisor
In spite of the potential benefits and diversification opportunities, each alternative investment also comes with its own risk, complexity and transparency issues. Not all alternative investments are suitable for every investor. It’s of utmost importance to keep your financial goals in focus when making investment-related decisions. Talk to your financial advisor to explore whether alternative investments align with your financial objectives and risk profile.
Real estate investments can be subject to different and greater risks than more diversified investments. Declines in the value of real estate, economic conditions, property taxes, tax laws and interest rates all present potential risks to real estate investments. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected, including diversification and asset allocation. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation.
Melanie J. Housden, AAMS® is both founder of Melanie J Financial, LLC, an independently owned and operated financial planning and investment advisory practice located in Hamilton, and a Wealth Management Advisor with Raymond James Financial Services. She and the team at Melanie J Financial bring more than two decades of financial planning experience to Central Texas.
Melanie J. Housden, AAMS
Melanie J. Financial
3 HAMILTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
254-386-3474
hamilton-public-library.org
4 WACO CARDIOLOGY ASSOCIATES
254-399-5400 wacocardiology.com
9 HAMILTON MAIN STREET
254-784-5610 mainstreet@hamiltontx.com
10 HAMILTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
254-386-3216
HamiltonTexasChamberofCommerce.com
11 HICO MEDSPA
254-374-0430
HicoMedspa.com
11 PECAN CREEK OUTFITTERS
108 E. Henry • Hamilton, TX 76531 pecancreekoutfitter.com
12 JORDAN PHARMACY 254-386-3111 jordanpharmacy.com
14 MCMAHAN PHARMACY 1503 W. Front, Goldthwaite 325-648-2484
15 HHS HOSPITAL AUXILIARY TEAM PO Box 93, Hamilton, TX 76531 hamiltonhospital.org/hgh-auxiliary
16 MC BANK
800-285-2216 mcbanktx.com
17 OMNI THERAPY BY TYLER
803-389-7480 OmniTherapyByTyler.com
SOLARIS
leehealthcare.com
companioninhomeseniorcare.com 35 FOCUSED
fpacp.com 36 MELANIE
COMMUNITY RESOURCES
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