Bay Area Health & Wellness Magazine May June 2016

FITNESS | NUTRITION | HEALTH | Mind-Body | FAMILY WELLNESS | community | FINANCIAL

complimentary

INSIDE: Tennis, Anyone?... Tennis, EVERYONE! Save Taxes, Save a Life Bay Area’s Top Summer Camp Picks

The Move It Mommas See page 10

MAY/JUNE 2016

TXHWMagazines.com

bs ghw a h w | TWa Eb Ll eL No Ef SCSo n t e n t s Family Wellness

Health

Could It Be Hormones? 8 No Dental Insurance? No Problem!

The Power of Community: To Be the Best Me 10 Reducing the Burden of Type 2 Diabetes 12 Stroke 13 Early Detection Saves Lives! 14 Health Q&A 30

Financial Save Taxes, Save a Life

16

MAY/JUNE 2016

Tennis, Anyone?... Tennis, EVERYONE! Three Typical Reasons We Don’t See Results with Our Weight Loss Journey 5 Life’s A Pain 6

Creating a Meaningful Mother-Daughter Relationship

20

Fatherhood and Running… a Common Thread 22 MD Anderson Offers Support, Resources to Help Shoulder the Burden 23

Mind-Body Your Mental Health Check Up

On The Cover: The Move It Mommas. Photography by Rhonda Floyd Photography.

Fitness

9

Senior Focus The Aches of Aging

26

27

Community

4

Nutrition The Need for Flaxseed Allergic to Your Food?

17 19

Bay Area’s Top Summer Camp Picks Lucky Trails & Astronaut 5K 29

Departments Best of Bay Area Directory

24

31

Bay Area Health & Wellness Magazine | May/June 2016 3

bsghw ahw |

FITNESS

sghw |

H E A LT H

Tennis, Anyone?...

Tennis, EVERYONE!

sghw |

FINANCIAL

sghw | MIND

By Eric M. Striesfeld

& BODY

As parents sghw | Fraising A M two I LYelementary aged children in the Bay Area,

my wife and I are always looking to engage our kids in activities where they can be motivated mentally and physically in a positive | CFor Uus, L Tteaching U R Eour children tennis is the answer. environment.

Did you know that tennis is one of the best sports for both you and your |child W to E Lplay?

L NAccording E S S to the USTA website, “People who participate in tennis 3 hours per week (at moderately vigorous intensity) cut their risk of death in half from any cause,” according to physician Ralph Paffenbarger, who studied over 10,000 people over a period of 20 years. Since tennis requires alertness and tactical thinking, it may generate new connections between nerves in the brain and thus promote a lifetime of continuing development of the brain, reported scientists at the University of Illinois. Competitive tennis burns more calories than aerobics, inline skating, or cycling, according to studies on caloric expenditures.

Tennis is a lifetime sport that can be played from the ages of 3 to 103 and every age in between. It is a positive way for both youth and adults to compete, network and stay physically fit. Because tennis is both an aerobic and anaerobic activity, playing is a fantastic way to burn fat and improve your overall cardio fitness. When playing tennis, you develop coordination while using both our large and small muscle groups. In children, this is especially important as they develop their gross and fine motor skills.

So how do you introduce tennis to your child? Bay Area Racquet Club is the place to experience fitness year round, especially in the summer with the summer tennis camps that are offered! Participating in our summer tennis camp is the ideal time to create the connection and positive impact for your child(ren). Tennis is a sport that teaches

sghw sghw

4 www.txhwmagazines.com

lifelong values, such as sportsmanship, etiquette, competition, nutritional habits, hand eye coordination, flexibility, team building skills and so much more.

Since there are many aspects to learning how to play tennis, it is suggested About the Author that learning from experienced, certified Eric Striesfeld and his team tennis teaching professionals who teach bring a high energy, passionate tennis as a career, rather than a part time approach to teaching. Eric has instructor (who might not have as much taught in the greater Houston area for nearly 20 years and experience) is preferred. By enrolling has been the owner of Bay with an organization that represents Area Racquet Club since these values and provides career teaching 2009. Striesfeld Sports & professionals, you ensure that the adult in Entertainment owns, directs, & manages tennis academies charge of teaching your child is committed and clubs across Houston and and vested in their engagement and long the Bay Area and continues term development. to grow! You can reach him Parents should be fully educated, as at 832-428-5048 cell, or bayarearacquetclub@yahoo.com. there is a distinct difference between teaching professionals and an organization that develops student’s skills rather than a pro, instructor, or club that simply provides lessons or a service. It is imperative that parents take a few minutes to review the staff credentials and background, as well as understand the teaching philosophy of a professional.

Bay Area Racquet Club has a dedicated team of professionals who truly care for student’s development and who have also trained players to earn varsity high school team status; top 10 Texas rankings; earn NCAA College scholarships and top 100 world rankings; and can help your child reach their full tennis potential!

Call Eric today to learn more: 832-428-5048 cell, or e-mail: bayarearacquetclub@yahoo.com.

Three Typical Reasons We Don’t See Results with Our

Weight Loss Journey

About the Author Alexandra has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a Master’s Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis. She has been a Board Certified Behavior Analyst since 2003.

She has over 12 years of experience practicing behavior analysis in various setting.

Recently her focus has been on fitness and nutrition using the principles of applied behavior analysis to help others be successful with their weight loss goals.

By Alexandra Edward, M.A., BCBA So you’ve made it this far with your New Year’s resolution. In a previous article, we discussed weight loss as a common resolution. We recommended scheduling your workouts, setting achievable goals (36 workouts in 90 days), and accepting that you will have to make changes in your routine to achieve these goals. You should be seeing results at this point. But you’re not? Why is that? Alexandra Edward, with Orangetheory Fitness in Pearland, may have some answers.

She has identified three typical reasons why you may not be seeing results.

Reason 1: You’re not eating as healthy as you think.

There is no cookie cutter meal plan that works for everyone. We have different dietary needs and some of us have food allergies we have to consider, as well. If you really want to know what you are eating, start by simply tracking your meals. Sounds simple enough, however, until you really start tracking your food, you probably don’t realize what you are eating on a daily basis. You may think you are eating healthy, but it turns out that you are eating healthy only 5% of the time. Keep a food journal and write down everything that you eat and drink or use one of the many apps available (myfitnesspal, loseit) that track your meals. Once you do this, you’ll realize the specific changes you need to make in order to get the nutrition needed to meet your weight loss goals. It is highly

recommended that you enlist the services of a reputable registered dietician or certified nutritionist to assist you with planning meals that are appropriate for your weight loss goals.

Reason 2: You’re not getting enough sleep.

In order to lose weight, you need to get a sufficient amount of sleep. Sleep gives you the energy you need to keep up with your exercise routine and regulate your body’s ability to control your appetite. Most adults need about 7-9 hours of sleep per night.

Take a moment and ask yourself, “How many hours of sleep am I actually getting?”

Don’t know the answer? Well, there are various products on the market that can help track your sleeping habits. Take a closer look at how much sleep you are actually getting and adjust your routine to ensure you get the sleep you need. Lack of sleep can cause your cortisol (stress hormone related to fat gain) levels to rise, push you to eat foods you shouldn’t eat, and select larger portion sizes.

Reason 3: You’re not focusing on the right thing.

If you haven’t already done so, now would be a good time to get some body measurements, take some before pictures, and weigh yourself. Give yourself an achievable goal for the next 90 days. Pick an outfit you want to be able to fit into. It can be something you already have or something

you’ve always wanted to wear. Remember you will need to schedule your workouts and make the necessary changes to your routine to be successful. Get on an appropriate nutrition plan and make sure you get enough sleep. At your 30 day mark, take another set of body measurements, pictures, and weigh in. Do this again at your 60 day mark. At the end of 90 days, take final body measurements, final pictures, and do a final weigh in. You should see a huge difference between your first before picture and your last after picture if you follow the suggestions above. You will also notice overall inches coming off your body as time goes by and your clothes will fit more loosely. Don’t let the scale be your only indicator of success. Use measurements and pictures as well.

Sometimes it’s hard to stick to your fitness routine without a partner. Grab a friend and come try a free workout at Orangetheory Fitness in Pearland. Orangetheory Fitness is a premier group personal training studio. We offer heart rate based, high intensity interval cardio and core and strength training.

Everyone wears a heart rate monitor and we train in 5 heart rate zones that are backed by science. Each and every class is led by high energy Certified Personal Trainers to ensure you get results. The workouts change every day so you won’t get bored, just results!

Bay Area Health & Wellness Magazine | May/June 2016 5

bsghw ahw |

FITNESS

sghw |

H E A LT H

As we live healthy active lifestyles, our bodies are bound to have aches and pains. Unfortunately, some pain or discomfort is a natural side effect of being physically active. While minor aches/pains are FINANCIAL normal, we may at times feel more severe pain that results from either injury or inflammation. Did you know that according to the National MIND & BODY Center for Health Statistics, over 76.2 million, one in every four Americans, have suffered from pain that lasts longer than 24 hours and millions more suffer from acute pain. We also know that pain is F A M I LY the most common cause of long-term disability, and the number one reason Americans access the health care system.1 C U LT U R E Pain usually comes in two forms: acute (short term) and chronic (long term). While acute pain is time limited and is often due to injury, chronic pain persists for years and even decades for some. While there WELLNESS is no “cure-all” for pain, there are options for treatment that are often overlooked but effective.

One such treatment is Cryotherapy.

Life’s A

sghw | sghw | sghw | sghw |

By I-Cryo sghw |

The Who,

What, Where and How to Find Relief

HOW? “How do we deal with pain?” In 1978, a Japanese doctor named Dr. Yamaguchi developed a technique called Cryotherapy. Initially it was developed to treat patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis, but as the therapy was used successfully for these patients, Dr. Yamaguchi also found that it was successful for pain management and inflammation as well.

WHAT? Cryotherapy is a technique of exposing your body to subzero temperatures to deaden the irritated nerves in the body. Once exposed, the central nervous system is activated sending endorphins, also called “endogenous morphine” throughout the body. Endorphins are our body’s natural “pain medicine.” The subzero temperatures also constricts (narrows) blood vessels that are inflamed and irritated. This decreases swelling and inflammation throughout the body and speeds up the healing process.

WHO? How do you know if Cryotherapy is for you? Cryotherapy is for everyone that has pain, from the professional athlete to the hardworking citizen. If you are 1 of the 100,000 people in America that deal with pain, then Cryotherapy is for you. There is no need to suffer in pain, when there is a viable option for managing it. Put your pain in I-Cryo’s hands!

Natalie Rochner is a professional body builder who uses cryotherapy on a daily basis. She is always Natalie Rochner looking for an edge over her competitors. With having a vigorous workout routine, she depends on Cryotherapy to speed up her recovery time and healing process in her body so that she can continue to compete at the intense professional level that she is at. “iCRYO has quickly become an essential element to my competition prep. I freeze once, maybe even twice a day! It’s cut my recovery time in half and is another excellent way to burn additional calories. Every little bit helps!”

WHERE? I-Cryo is located at 1260 East League City Parkway, Suite 100, in League City. We are open Monday-Thursday from 6am-8pm and on Saturdays from 6am-6pm. We are excited and ready to help you become pain free…because we all know that “LIFE IS A PAIN”! https://report.nih.gov/nihfactsheets/ViewFactSheet.aspx?csid=57

1

6 www.txhwmagazines.com

Bay Area Health & Wellness Magazine | May/June 2016 7

bs ghw ahw |

F IEALT T N EHS S H

s ghw |

H E A LT H

Could It Be Hormones?

FINANCIAL

s ghw |

Why Hormonal Balance Is Important for Women’s s ghw | M I N D Health & BODY

By Lauren Sullivan, PA-C

s ghw | F A M I LY Meet Kathy, a 52 year old woman who came to see me regarding multiple symptoms that started about 4-5 months after her periods stopped. She was having irregular/heavy periods

s ghw CU T cycles URE toward the| end of L her and was considering a hysterectomy. Her biggest complaint was

not being able to sleep for more than a few hours and she had trouble getting her mind to slow down. She| had Wbeen E Lhorribly L N Etired S Sin the mornings; her hot flashes were constant and her night sweats were unbearable. Her weight was going up despite her diet and exercise. She felt like she was always in a fog, and felt like her memory issues were affecting her work. Her husband told her she was irritable and thought she could care less if anything ever happened in the bedroom. She did not like who she felt she had become and she hated that her body felt foreign to her. She just wanted her old life back. She explained this to her OBGYN who suggested antidepressants. After additional tests were done, which came back normal, her primary care doctor told her she was fine. She just needed to exercise more and eat fewer calories.

Oh Kathy, do I have some wonderful news! The key to relief is to balance your hormones.

Hormones are the biological messengers that provide the body with information on how to perform numerous functions. Hormones cannot just be thought of individually, but as a symphony that needs to play harmoniously to have a desired effect. If one section of the symphony is off tune, the other performers may have to compensate to keep balance to the music.

Female hormones play a role in every stage of a woman’s life. They mold her into her womanly shape, giving her beautiful curves and feminine features. They make it possible for a woman to produce the miracle of life, giving birth to precious children. They support her bones, improve her cognition, mood, and sleep. No wonder a woman can feel unlike themselves if these hormones are off.

Hormone imbalance is commonly overlooked in the conventional medical setting as a cause or relating factor to many symptoms and illnesses. Too often women are treated with antidepressants, sleep medications, and other therapies that ultimately put a bandaid on the issue, without addressing the root cause. It is important to make the distinction between synthetic hormone replacement and bioidenticals. Bioidentical hormones are the exact same chemical structure that is made in the human body vs. synthetic hormones, which are chemically altered About the Author Lauren Sullivan, PA-C, is a and have a different effect on hormone receptors. Bioidentical Certified Physician Assistant hormones are uniquely compounded for the patient to dose for and has been practicing in their specific needs. family medicine and wellness for over 6 years. She has Women who may benefit from hormone testing and training in both conventional bioidentical hormone replacement are those who have menstrual and holistic medicine, with irregularity, PMS, PCOS, infertility, endometriosis, uterine an interest in hormones, thyroid, autoimmune disease, fibroids, and menopausal symptoms. Female hormone and nutrition, and preventative cortisol testing are best done through saliva, as this gives a health. She is committed better representation of the available hormones accessible to the to empowering patients to feel their best through body. Thyroid is complex and it is important to have multiple education and developing levels checked for thyroid function, including evaluation for personalized strategies to autoimmune causes. Women need to know how their body works reach their individual health goals. She can be reached at and if hormone imbalance might be a part of their inability to laurensullivanpa@gmail.com. reach optimal wellness.

s ghw

8 www.txhwmagazines.com

No Dental Insurance?

No Problem!

What is a Dental Wellness Membership Plan?

By Raul S Saenz II, DDS

As we and our parents get older, we’ve encountered more and more stories about friends and loved ones who have retired and found themselves with Medicare coverage, but no dental coverage. Retirees were brought up in a private practice environment, but with the new high performance Health Care corporate strategies, and with dental clinics popping up everywhere, we have seen drastic changes in a very short period of time.

Employers now have to cut down or down grade the dental benefits they provide to their employees.

“The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has released statistics on the high prevalence of dental cavities among U.S. adults, and the numbers are sobering.

Ninety-one percent of Americans over 20 have had cavities at some point in their lives.

Notably, the agency reports that 27 percent of adults over 20 have untreated cavities.” (www.ada.org/en/press-room/news-releases/2015archive/may/new-cdc-data-on-adult-cavities)

bs ghw ahw |

F IEALT T N EHS S H

s ghw |

H E A LT H

s ghw |

FINANCI

s ghw |

MIND &

s ghw |

F A M I LY

About the Author

Raul S Saenz II, DDS was s ghw | Texas C UandL T U R E born in South raised in San Antonio. With a passion for learning, he finished high school Wearly ELL and then went to college and was able to finish in three years, as well. He entered dental school at age 20 and graduated in 1980 from UT Health Science Center in San Antonio. Dr. Saenz has been practicing dentistry in the Bay Area since 2006 and has experienced many advancements and changes in the field of dentistry for over 30 years.

s ghw |

NES

“Despite all the advances in our ability to prevent, detect and treat dental disease, too many Americans – for a variety of reasons – are not enjoying the best possible oral health,” said ADA President Dr. Maxine Feinberg. This is especially true in Older Americans. “25% of adults 60 years or older no longer have their natural teeth due to various reasons such as periodontal disease (gum disease), tooth decay (cavities), gum recession, oral and pharyngeal cancers.” (http://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/publications/factsheets/adult_oral_health/adult_older.htm)

Tips on Oral Health: • Choose to drink water over sugary drinks.

• Use fluoride toothpaste and brush daily.

• Floss daily to reduce plaque.

• Schedule regular dental appointments.

• Pay attention to changes in taste and smells in your mouth, indicating potential problems.

• Limit tobacco, alcohol, and sugar intake.

So what are the dental options for those seniors, retired individuals and friends that found themselves in this disadvantageous situation? As a private practitioner and old school envisioned dental provider, my wife and I “patient centered” our ideas, thinking of ways to offer dental practice services to those in need. We pursued the initiative to incorporate a loyal wellness membership plan for individuals, prioritizing high standards of patient service, warm care and a private practice atmosphere. After days of planning and community outreach, seeking the real feel of present dental health issues, we came up with an affordable membership plan that aids seniors, as well as retirees, who don’t have dental insurance.

The dental wellness membership plan is designed to give a substantial discount to loyal members in a privately owned dental practice with a comfortable friendly atmosphere, state of the art equipment and materials, a caring staff and a committed doctor that excels in providing the best high quality dental treatments and common sense dental plans. Professional criteria, human touch and a strong sense of old school character blended with the latest and most sophisticated dental technologies provide the best health care for our patients, friends and surrounding community.

Our goal is to make lives better!

For further information on the Dental Wellness Membership Plan, please call 281-335-5577.

Bay Area Health & Wellness Magazine | May/June 2016 9

The Power of Community:

To Be the Best Me

By Carrie Ermshar

When Marissa McClellan found success on her journey for better health, she became inspired to share it with others.

Her monumental weight loss of over 100 lbs. was certainly a visible change, but what her heart yearned for was to share what she had learned about overall health, pushing your mind and body to be used in the way they were designed: to move and think, push harder, and grow stronger. She’d been down the weight loss road enough to know that success isn’t achieved without strong support systems.

It started in 2013 with only one person joining her for a daily workout. Within one week, the number had grown to thirty!

Marissa simply shared with everyone she met the desire to start a daily workout and join together in the health journey. Then others shared. They told stories of being the best you can be and encouragement on ways to get there. As a mother of two young sons, Marissa’s blog during her journey evolved into the name of the new village that was forming, The Move It Mommas.

In just three short years, over three hundred 10 www.txhwmagazines.com

have joined this community of women simply striving to be the best they can be, even if it’s just for that one hour of intense physical demands. The power of working together for individual strength has proven to be healing emotionally and physically. Women from all walks of life: young mothers, career driven, middle age, and even older adults have joined in the movement of health and wellness.

Cancer, depression, blood pressure, arthritis, and general maladies of life have been conquered. Weight loss isn’t the focal point, as much as overall health. It doesn’t matter your size, your conditions, just strive to be healthy. There are no expectations other than to be yourself and keep moving at what pace you can, although Marissa will push you!

And, humor. Sharing laughter is contagious among the “Mommas.”

For Marissa, the group has become her strongest support system. For the group, they are inspired daily from her leadership and motivation. Together, they are changing lives. Improving health and wellness for themselves, their families, and the community they influence.

Kelly Sebelius

For most of her adult life, Kelly has struggled with being overweight. She could never find a solution, other than quick fixes, which would come and go and damage her health. It also affected her ability to be a mom. After years of not being able to get pregnant, she found herself in a successful, but risky pregnancy, including diabetes and hypothyroidism. It took three years, increased issues with diabetes and complications from routine surgeries to overcome the anger and denial of the condition of her health and take a step toward improvement.

When she met The Move It Mommas, she felt like the missing piece of a puzzle had been discovered. Here was a support system of women who wanted nothing more than to be there for one another on the road to better health. She found herself improving both physically and emotionally. The anger and frustration over her health was now

bs ghw ahw |

F IEALT T N EHS S H

s ghw

channeled into her drive for improvement.

From the group, she learned to create a lifestyle that is sustainable, no matter what the circumstances.

With the help of the group, Kelly lost 75lbs and has kept it off for 2 years. Her diabetes is very tightly controlled through diet and exercise. And, she completed her first marathon! Most of all, she is proud of being a healthier and happier person who makes a better wife, mom, teacher, and friend.

H E Anot LT H She learned the value of | inches, pounds. Mentally, she was sharper. She was determined. She was focused.| Emotionally, FINANCI she was crying tears of joy instead of tears of fear. She decided to keep going, and took a | M IND & few pictures along the way to stay motivated.

She thought she’d really gone crazy when she agreed to a 5k in January. Her point | Fhigh AM I LY was during that race when all the Mommas not only showed up to move at her pace, C UThat’s LT U R E but wore T-shirts to support| her. the power of community. Next, came the Causeway Bridge. She conquered that | W E beast LLNES with the Mommas by her side, regardless of that stupid scale!

When she got the phone call at boot camp that her father had died, she was thankful to be surrounded by these women who would encourage her, hold her, and motivate her to make that drive to Pennsylvania, and remind her how proud he would be of her recent accomplishments. They sent messages to her the entire trip to keep her going, strong, and healthy.

She’s learned to drink LOTS of water, balance healthy and clean eating with the occasional treat, take one day at a time, and enjoy the journey, not a quick destination. She says it’s different this time. She has a village.

She has what she’s learned from those crazy mommas, that together anything is possible.

She’s 55 inches smaller and 40 lbs. lighter in 6 months. She is off more than half of her medications. Her doctors are amazed. And she just smiles. Alot.

s ghw s ghw s ghw s ghw s ghw

Mishell Valiulis

Gloria Salinas

When Gloria retired in February 2014, her daily exercise consisted of walking her dogs and 30 minutes on a recumbent bike.

She weighed well over 200 lbs. and her blood pressure was out of control. She was a cancer survivor, yet very unhealthy. She had noticed a group of women exercising in her neighborhood and found them intriguing.

Not sure her knees could handle the exercise, she decided to go ahead and give it a try anyway. They seemed to be having fun! The group dynamics are what kept her going back, even though she had to ice her knees after the workout! Marissa offered alternatives from her education in physical fitness to benefit Gloria’s knees. The group has become Gloria’s family, and even encouraged her with running a half marathon together, at Gloria’s pace. She has lost 50 lbs. and drastically reduced her medications. Her blood pressure is now ideal and Gloria states she would have never found these milestones on her own.

Being a part of the group has added years to her life and taught her a lifestyle of complete health and wellness.

She couldn’t believe it. 366 lbs. The scale had always been her enemy. Depression.

Multiple blood pressure medications. A young daughter. She had to do something.

Some close friends had been asking Mishell for months to join a crazy named group known as The Move It Mommas. She thought they must be a cult, but she showed up one day. That day was her breaking point. She thought she would die. Mishell found herself hyperventilating during the exercise. Not as much from the physical exertion as the mental awareness that she had to do something. She suddenly couldn’t breathe. Marissa helped Mishell get her breath. The other ladies surrounded her without crowding her. They supported her; they loved her for who she was.

That was July 2015.

She kept going. Every day.

Even when she didn’t want to be there. She was learning it wasn’t about a quick fix, it wasn’t about just the weight, and it wasn’t about always being the big girl with the pretty face.

It was a journey with highs and lows, with people of all shapes and sizes. It was choosing to be the best you can be and working hard to make smart choices.

It was about enjoying the ice cream, just not every day. That was October 2015.

And then, she realized she was changing. Physically, she was slowly shrinking.

Leslie Rangel and Denise Fitzmaurice.

“I feel like I have my wife back” Bob Fitzmaurice regarding his wife, Denise.

Bay Area Health & Wellness Magazine | May/June 2016 11

bs ghw ahw |

F IEALT T N EHS S H

s ghw |

H E A LT H Reducing s ghw INANCIAL the| FBurden s ghw | M I N D &2 BODY of Type s ghw | F A M I LY Diabetes

By Lharissa Jacobs, M.Ed, MBA s ghw | C U LT U R E Association Director of Community Health, YMCA of Greater Houston

s ghw |

WELLNESS

The YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program helps reduce the burden of diabetes in communities across the country.

The latest statistics show that 29.1 million Americans had diabetes and an estimated 86 million Americans had prediabetes in 2014.

The YMCA of Greater Houston has access to this evidence-based program that can address a pressing community need through willing local partners, a supportive national infrastructure, and a compelling long-term sustainability model.

Prediabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough for a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis. Risk for developing Type 2 diabetes may be reduced or eliminated by weight loss, healthier eating and increased physical activity.

The YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program is a community-based lifestyle improvement program for adults with prediabetes. Its purpose is to empower adults with lasting lifestyle changes that will improve their overall health and reduce their chances of developing Type 2 diabetes. Research by the National Institutes of Health has shown that

Healthy Kids Day

programs like the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program can reduce the number of new cases of Type 2 diabetes by 58 percent, and 71 percent in adults over the age of 60.

The YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program helps individuals at risk for Type 2 diabetes reduce or delay the incidence of the disease. The target audience for the program is overweight adults at risk for Type 2 diabetes. Qualified participants must be at least 18 years old and have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 25 or greater or 22 for Asians. In addition, participants must qualify with a blood glucose level in the prediabetes range, a prediabetes diagnosis from a physician, or a self-assessed score calculated from risk quiz that can be accessed at: ymcahouston.org/ links/ydppquestionnaire.pdf.

Please call the Diabetes Prevention and Control Alliance at 800237-4942 to confirm eligibility through United Healthcare. Your flexible savings account, flexible spending arrangement or health savings account may allow for payment to participate in the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program as a disease prevention program.

New classes will be available at the Vic Coppinger Family YMCA, Edgar A. Smith Family YMCA and the Thelma Ley Anderson Family YMCA. For more information on these programs, contact us at 713758-9152 or diabetes.prevention@ymcahouston.org.

to 1pm: April 30 10am d Edgar A. the Perry an ith w er th ote healthy Come toge brate and prom al Healthy le ce to s A C YM e annu Smith Family mmunity at th ity youth in our co e ation, commun th uc r fo ed ts n, bi fu ha of y da e ce the chan to bration; a fre e community th Kids Day cele rs fe ps, of ay D lthy Kids sports worksho classes, small and health. Hea es se iti ci tiv er ac ex d p mes an trial grou riety of free ga h. va participate in ut a yo d an y’s es da iz asses, pr ongst to am s le ty es ay lif B water safety cl thy ss the omoting heal f from all acro aimed at pr as YMCA staf l el lp children w he as , to rs rtne about how n io at rm Community pa fo in to get up, get site to share season for kids e th a is Area, will be on er m m jumpstart into d active. Su is the perfect ay D stay healthy an e s ar id K ns y io brat and Health Kids Day cele out and grow, ! Both Healthy er t required. m m no su is n e tiv tio healthy, ac ior registra pr d an , ic bl pu e 14650 Highway free, open to th A is located at C YM A ily m Fa y Family YMC The E.A. Smith 8 and the Perr 59 77 s, ue xa ag Te , Le , Parkway 3, Webster W. League City is located 1700 573.

City, Texas, 77 12 www.txhwmagazines.com

YMCA Summer Programs Looking for fu

n summer progra kids? Represent ms for the atives from each of our program areas will be re ady to share in formation abou activities we of t the fer during the summer month YMCA’s contin s. The ued commitm ent to the he well-being of ou alth and r community’s youth is eviden programs like t through our Healthy K ids Day, Youth Aquatics, Day Sports, Camp and Aft er School. Each programs emph of these asizes the im portance of he living, youth de althy velopment and social responsib For more inform ility. ation contact th e E.A. Smith Family YMCA at 281-486-96 22 or the Perry Family YMCA at 28 1338-9622.

By Dr. Shahin Tavackoli Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States.1 On average, one person in America has a stroke about every 40 seconds and of these, more than 75% are new events. One stroke fatality occurs in America about every four minutes. Incidence of stroke rises with each passing decade in a person’s life, the great majority of strokes occurring in those who are older than 65 years of age. The leading risk factor for sustaining a stroke is hypertension.

Fortunately, the incidence of stroke is declining in the US and it has now dropped from the third to the fifth leading cause of death. There has been a growing awareness around both prevention of stroke and also recognition of the signs and symptoms of the disease, thereby lessening the impact of an event when it does occur. Treatment of hypertension and reduction in smoking across the US have been touted as the leading reasons for the decline in both the incidence and the consequences of stroke.

A stroke occurs if the blood to the brain is blocked. There are two main types of stroke: ischemic and hemorrhagic.

An ischemic stroke occurs when blood to the brain is blocked, most commonly, by blood clots. A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when an artery in the brain leaks blood or ruptures.

Elevated blood pressure, otherwise known as hypertension, occurs when a person’s blood pressure exceeds 140/90 mmHg. The top number, the systolic blood pressure (SBP), represents the active contraction of the heart; the bottom number, the diastolic blood pressure (DBP), is what is noted when the heart is relaxing, This is thought to represent the tone of the vasculature and the overall volume of blood in the arterial circulation.

Advancing age is a very well-known, inevitable risk factor for the development of hypertension; however, there are preventable risks for its development, such as smoking, drinking alcohol, being overweight, lack of exercise or regular physical activity, and very importantly, a diet high in salt (sodium-based salt of any kind). Therefore, the treatment of hypertension starts with risk factor modification and this has to continue even after a person is started on medications.

Unfortunately, there are a lot of misunderstandings about not only the necessity of hypertension management, but also the way it is to be treated. Treatment of hypertension and prevention of stroke should involve cooperation on the part of the physician and the patient; each has to play their proper part, otherwise the result will be failure and unfortunately, in many cases, heartbreak. We hear misconceptions, such as “an elevated SBP is normal in the elderly” and “once you start on a BP medication, you can never stop” on a regular basis; neither of these are true and they both are dangerous in that they may lead to a lack of necessary treatment for this devastating disease.

It is highly recommended that people monitor their own BP on a regular basis and alert their physician if their numbers exceed the limits mentioned above. Stroke is on the decline; let’s hope the trend continues.

About the Author Dr. Shahin Tavackoli, a graduate of the University of Texas, Galveston, completed his residency at Baylor College of Medicine, and a fellowship at UTMB Galveston. He is certified in Cardiovascular Disease by the American Board of Internal Medicine and is a fellow of the American College of Cardiology. He has been in private practice since 2004 and is now serving a second term as Chairman of the Department of Cardiology at Memorial Hermann Hospital.

CDC website: http://www.cdc.gov/stroke/facts.htm

1

Bay Area Health & Wellness Magazine | May/June 2016 13

bs ghw ahw |

F IEALT T N EHS S H

s ghw |

H E A LT H

Early Detection s ghw | F I N A N C I A L Saves Lives!

By Dr. Reena s ghw | Vashi MIND

& BODY

There have been many advances in science and technology to help diagnose treat breast cancer. Because of this, women in the | F and AM I LY U.S. have the highest survival rate of breast cancer in the world.

The goal of screening mammography is to detect breast cancer | C U LT U R E at the earliest possible stage, when it is the most treatable. All major professional medical organizations, including the American Cancer Society (ACS) Preventive | W and E LUS LN E S S services Task Force (USPSTF), agree that beginning screening mammography at age 40 results in the maximum number of lives saved.

The Breast Diagnostic Center at Clear Lake Regional Medical Center is thrilled to be a local pioneer by providing 3D screening mammography, also known as digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT). All of our eligible patients have the option of benefiting from this cutting edge technology, which has been proven to decrease the rate of false alarms and increase the rate of cancer detection. We are proud to provide a team of radiologists with specialized

s ghw s ghw s ghw

breast experience and education to interpret every mammogram. We have also worked closely with our partners in breast surgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, pathology, and reconstructive surgery to achieve certification from the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). This accreditation holds us to the highest standards of care for patients with diseases of the breast.

The team at the Breast Diagnostic Center takes great pride in serving the men and women of Southeast Houston and feels privileged to be entrusted with their breast health care.

About the Author Dr. Reena Vashi joined the Breast Diagnostic Center team in 2012. Dr. Vashi received her medical degree in 2006 from Sidney Kimmel Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. She then completed her residency in diagnostic radiology at Mount Sinai Beth Israel Hospital in New York. She completed her fellowship training in breast imaging at Yale University, specializing in all modalities of breast imaging and intervention. Dr. Vashi is a member of the Society of Breast Imaging, American College of Radiology, and Radiological Society of North America.

Finding Support at the Breast Diagnostic Center at Clear Lake Regional Medical Center At the age of 43, Lisa Radant was diagnosed with High Grade Stage 2 Breast Cancer. She was a single mom of three girls who ranged in age from 5-17 years old. She reflects, “I don’t care how many people you know with cancer, once the doctor tells you that it IS cancer, you can’t even put one foot in front of the other! Hearing the words that you have cancer is such a shocking life changer you forget how to function as a women.”

1 in 8 women in the United States will develop invasive breast cancer over their lifetime according to breastcancer.org. In fact, in 2016 alone, 246,660 new cases of invasive breast cancer and 61,000 cases of non-invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed. The numbers can be staggering, especially when multiplied by the number of people affected by this disease including parents, partners and children.

The good news is that breast cancer patients don’t have to face this alone! Lisa learned first hand the importance of finding a network of friends and doctors she could trust. The Breast Diagnostic Center’s support group became an integral part of her healing. “The women at the support group taught me that I am bigger than cancer. The number one thing was talking with women who have experienced the same thing. It is comforting and liberating at the same time. No one else, except for these women have looked in the mirror and dealt with the physical and emotional problems that breast cancer brings. When you are a part of a support group you are surrounded by women who know from experience what you are going through. No one is trying to fix you, they just get it! The Breast Diagnostic Center support group is there to build and support, not to pity. They listen, encourage and then kick you off the ‘pity train’ reminding you that you need to do something positive with your life.”

The Breast Diagnostic Center has been serving the men and women of the Southeast Houston area for over 20 years, and has recently earned the “Center of Excellence” NAPBC accreditation.” Here, the Breast Diagnostic Center will become your new family. You will find a network of doctors and staff who are there to support and rally around you. One of the most powerful things you can do is build a network of support. Tap into this resource! These support groups are offered on the third Tuesday of each month at the Breast Diagnostic Center lobby from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

14 www.txhwmagazines.com

The Breast Diagnostic Center at Clear Lake Regional Medical Center has provided streamlined, high-quality, and comprehensive care to women in the Bay Area Houston region for over 20 years. Our team is committed to the best care for health-related conditions of the breast and bone by providing services for screening, prevention, and early detection.

Our facility has the distinction of being granted as a Nationally Accredited Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC), a quality program of The American College of Surgeons, and designated as a Breast Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology (ACR).

Now offering GENIUS 3D MAMMOGRAPHY EXAM TM

TM

A more accurate way to screen for breast cancer.

NAP BC

速

NATIONAL ACCREDITATION PROGRAM FOR BREAST CENTERS

A QUALITY PROGRAM OF THE AMERIAN COLLEGE OF SURGEONS Bay Area Health & Wellness Magazine | May/June 2016 15

bs ghw ahw |

F II NAN T N ECSI SAL F

s ghw |

H E A LT H

Save Taxes, Save a Life

s ghw | FINANCIAL

By James Brockway s ghw |

MIND & BODY

Recently, I finished my 2015 tax return and scowled about the amount of the check I was going to write the IRS. Thus began | F A M I LY my fruitless search to find any overlooked About the Author deductions. Mortgage interest-check, property James Brockway, of Brockway | C U LT U R E Realty, has been representing taxes-check, business expenses-check. Now home buyers and sellers on to charitable contributions. There were throughout the Clear Lake some amounts that I paid to the usual groups | WELLNESS and Houston area since like the Salvation Army and our church.

1992. He is a Certified Residential Specialist Then there were amounts pledged to (CRS), an Accredited Buyer friends who were running in 5Ks or other Representative (ABR), and events to raise awareness for various causes. a Certified International As I dug through my files to search for that Property Specialist (CIPS). big deduction that I may have somehow forgotten, I reviewed the checks I cut and thought more about who the recipients were and what they had done. If you don’t have a favorite charity, I encourage you to seek one out. Of course you will get a tax write off, but more importantly you will do your small part to make the world a better place. Our daughter has been a Shriners kid since we adopted her at one year old, so, of course they are our favorite charity. The doctors and staff there have been so generous with their time that, unless I hit the lottery, I will never be able to repay them. Has there been a charity that has touched your life or strikes a chord with you? Has someone close to you had an incurable illness that you would love to help find a cure for? At times, we tend to write checks and not really let the positive impact sink in as to how much we can help these charitable organizations. The next time you contribute your time and/or money, take some time for yourself to reflect upon the good you have done.

s ghw s ghw s ghw

16 www.txhwmagazines.com

The Need for Flaxseed

By Darlene Staheli

Is flaxseed a super hero? Does it have super powers?

Well, it can’t leap over tall buildings nor is it faster than a speeding bullet, but it can help save you from hot flashes, cravings, constipation, inflammation, cancer and many more ‘kryptonite’-like ailments! Flaxseed can have super powerful effects on your body when just a small amount (a couple of tablespoons per day) is added to your diet. Let’s take a closer look: Lignans: Flaxseeds contain an antioxidant called lignan.

Lignans reduce the activity of cell-damaging free radicals, slow aging process and increase overall wellness.

Flaxseed contains up to 800 times more lignans than other plant sources. Lignans are especially important for:

Wherever flaxseeds become a regular food item among the people, there will be better health Mahatma Gandhi

bs ghw ahw |

F IUTTN N RE I TSI S ON

s ghw |

H E A LT H

s ghw |

FINANCIAL

s ghw

• Anti cancer, anti viral effects | MIND & BO • Cardio protection • Improving blood sugar | F A M I LY • Reducing inflammation About the Author Darlene Staheli is a board • Protecting against osteoporosis certified Integrative Health • Improving cognitive function | C U LT U R E Coach and a professionally • Reducing hot flashes and breast pain in trained Health Supportive Chef. Upon completing menopausal women | WCoach E Ltraining LNESS her Health • Reducing the risk of uterine fibroids in program through the middle aged women Institute of Integrative • Reducing the risk of breast cancer Nutrition, (NYC) she received her board • Reducing the risk of prostate cancer certification through the • Protecting against diabetes AADP. Fiber: With all the difficult to digest, processed and animal based foods that are consumed, we need help! Most Americans are unaware of how much fiber they need in their diets and are unsure where to get it. In general, men need between 30-50 grams per day, women 25-45 grams per day and flax can help you get there. Each tablespoon of flax contains about 2.2 grams of fiber loaded with both soluble and insoluble fiber. A few benefits of fiber include: • Helps maintain bowel health • Lowers cholesterol • Balances blood sugar • Reduces blood pressure • Reduces inflammation • Weight loss Alpha-linolenic Acid (ALA): Flaxseeds are full of the omega-3 fatty acids, which are greatly missing in most diets. ALA-rich flaxseed can help lower the risk of chronic diseases and can help maintain wellness by: • Repairing damaged cells • Producing healthy radiant skin • Maintaining the nervous system • Reducing inflammation, which plays a major role in arthritis, heart disease, Type II Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome, Obesity, Cancer, Alzheimer Disease, etc.

Flaxseed comes in “whole,” “ground,” and “oil” forms. Whole flaxseed passes right through us and offers little benefit. Flaxseed oil has no fiber, and often has no lignans. Ground flaxseed is the real superhero. When it’s ground, our bodies can utilize and absorb all the wonderful things it has to offer.

Flaxseed has a very mild flavor and can easily be added to meals and snacks.

Here are a few suggestions: • Add a tablespoon or two of ground flaxseed to a bowl of breakfast cereal, hot or cold.

• Add a couple of tablespoons to a healthy smoothie.

• Use it to thicken sauces, soups and dressings (it automatically thickens when added to liquid).

• Sprinkle it on top of a salad, or even a sandwich.

• Use 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed plus 3 tablespoons water as a fantastic egg substitute in baked goods and pancakes.

s ghw s ghw s ghw

Bay Area Health & Wellness Magazine | May/June 2016 17

bs ghw ahw |

F IUTTN N RE I TSI S ON

s ghw |

H E A LT H

s ghw

Allergic to Your Food?

and usually has to carry | FINANCIAL an Epi-pen. IgE allergens are very serious and we | MIND & BO recommend having proper testing done, as they can be life threatening. | F A M I LY IgG is the less recognizable reaction and C U LT U R E one of the least known.

About |the Author Dr. Angela Dagley received her Interestingly though, degree of podiatric medicine at it is the most prevalent | WSchool E LCollege L Nof E S S Dr. William and abundant type of Podiatric Medicine in Chicago, reaction. It is also the only IL. She has been practicing wellness since the fall of 2014 immunoglobulin reaction under the guidance of Dr. that can pass through Patrick Flynn, founder of The the placental wall during Wellness Way. She lives in Nassau Bay with her husband pregnancy. IgG reactions can also last for and two boys. up to 20 days in our systems. Its symptoms consist of sinus allergies, bloating, PMS, acne, headaches/migraines, eczema, repeated infections, and joint pain. Consistent exposure to food allergens, though, can result in more serious symptoms like Alzheimer’s, cancers, RA, and thyroiditis.

So although it may not create an immediate life threatening reaction, IgG reactions can lead to more chronic conditions and significant discomfort.

How can one type of immune reaction translate into so many symptoms? Think about how the body reacts to an allergen.

When an allergen enters our body, the immune system reacts and does its job by sending out a response. This response results in inflammation……Medicine recognizes that inflammation is the root cause of most chronic diseases. The problem is that, most of time, it can be difficult to pinpoint where the inflammation is coming from.

That is why it is so important that you have proper testing done.

Since IgG reactions can pop up anytime between when we consume the food allergens up to 20 days afterwards, it can be very difficult to identify what foods are causing your symptoms. There are many causes of inflammation in the body, but food allergens are the most common. And they are consistently entering our body every time we eat them. Having a proper blood test that measures both IgE and IgG can identify what your food allergens are.

The good news is that the immune system can help clear food allergens if you give it the support it needs. Avoiding your food allergens and helping heal leaky gut can tremendously help stop a large CAUSE of inflammation in the body. If you would like more information on this topic, I encourage you to attend a free educational seminar we are hosting May 24th and June 28th at 6 PM. It is complimentary for you and a guest and will go more in depth on how we develop food allergens, what their symptoms are, and how you can help support your immune system to eliminate some food allergens. More information can be found on our advertisement or by calling 281-488-8300.

s ghw s ghw s ghw s ghw

By Dr. Angela Dagley When we think of foods that are “bad” for us, we typically think of sugar, bread, cheese, fried foods, etc. What if foods that are bad for your body included almonds, carrots, avocado, lemons, bananas or black pepper? You are probably thinking “No way! That is crazy!”

That, in fact, may be the case for you and you would have no idea. We have seen this over and over with our patients.

Let’s start with defining the different immune reactions that occur in the body.

According to http://kidshealth.org, the five subclasses of antibodies are: 1. Immunoglobulin A (IgA), which is found in high concentrations in the mucous membranes, particularly those lining the respiratory passages and gastrointestinal tract, as well as in saliva and tears.

2. Immunoglobulin G (IgG), the most abundant type of antibody, is found in all body fluids and protects against bacterial and viral infections.

3. Immunoglobulin M (IgM), which is found mainly in the blood and lymph fluid, is the first antibody to be made by the body to fight a new infection.

4. Immunoglobulin E (IgE), which is associated mainly with allergic reactions (when the immune system overreacts to environmental antigens, such as pollen or pet dander) is found in the lungs, skin, and mucous membranes.

5. Immunoglobulin D (IgD), which exists in small amounts in the blood, is the least understood antibody.

So what do these immune reactions have to do with you and food allergens?

The two main immunoglobulins that we are going to touch on are the IgG and IgE reactions to foods. IgE is the most recognizable reaction as it is most associated with hives, itching, swelling of lips or throat, dizziness and/or vomiting among other symptoms. The most relatable example is that of someone who has a peanut or shellfish allergy. If the allergy is great enough, the person with the allergy can’t even get near the allergen without having dire consequences

Bay Area Health & Wellness Magazine | May/June 2016 19

bs ghw ahw |

F I TMNI LEYS W S ELLNESS FA

s ghw |

H E A LT H Creating a Meaningful s ghw | FINANCIAL Mother-Daughter Relationship

By Erika Labuzan-Lopez s ghw | MIND

& BODY

The mother-daughter relationship is complex, complicated, and ever evolving. Some mothers and daughters talk all the time, while others speak more sparingly. Some deal with conflict head on; others avoid fighting at all | F A M I LY costs. No matter how you relate to one another, there will be arguments between mothers and daughters. How is About the Author it that mothers and daughters are masters at pushing each other’s buttons?

Erika Labuzan-Lopez, | Cthe U mother L T U of R aEdaughter can inherently trigger issues you have with your own mother, and those LMFT, LPC is passionate Becoming about working with couples feelings start influencing this new relationship. You’ve probably told yourself, “I’ll never do xyz, like my mother and families looking to did!” Then yourself | later, W Eyou L Lhear NE S S saying that exact phrase that used to drive you crazy. Women also tend to understand how the tough stuff plays out in interactions communicate verbally, which leads to more interactions that are perfectly aligned for conflict. A mother makes a and how to move past the comment about her daughter’s hair, with the intention of caring for her daughter and making sure that she is set up fighting. She specializes in for success (and underlying that, proving she’s a good mother), whereas the daughter interprets that as a criticism, couples therapy, infertility which triggers fears that maybe she’s not perfect. counseling, and the transition to parenthood. Erika is located If you are noticing tension in your mother-daughter relationship, know that it’s normal. There are easy steps at the South Shore Center for you can take that can improve your relationship, although admittedly, they will require some practice in both of Couples & Families. your parts.

• Communicate clearly - Sometimes mothers and daughters feel so close that they assume the other person just knows what they need, and therefore don’t communicate at all. Neither of you are mind readers, so you still have to be clear about what you need. It’s ok to say, “Mom, I just really need you to listen” or “I feel hurt that you yelled at me in that way.” You can also reflect back what the other person just said so that you make sure you understood their point.

• Repair damage quickly - In healthy relationships, people don’t avoid conflict. Differences of opinion are unavoidable, and therefore, we have to find a constructive way to deal with conflict. By not dealing with issues, we actually hold on to them and carry them into our future relationships. Make decisions about what will be most helpful and pick your battles about what to argue over. If you’ve lashed out or said something hurtful, apologize and take the time to explore your feelings and why that took place.

• Set boundaries - Boundary setting in very important no matter what stage of the relationship you are in. Here’s one of the best definitions of boundaries that I’ve ever heard: “What’s ok and not ok.” You can decide for yourself exactly what behaviors are ok and not ok, and then you have to communicate those and follow through.

The mother-daughter connection is incredibly special, but also challenging. It’s worth putting effort into this important relationship, as it’s a foundation for other healthy interactions in life. You both deserve to have a meaningful connection, enjoy being together, and find support from one another.

What will you do to grow your relationship today?

s ghw s ghw s ghw

20 www.txhwmagazines.com

BEST. SUMMER. EVER. Find Your Fun at the Y SUMMER PROGRAMS AT THE YMCA YMCA summer programs offer the perfect opportunity to make playing and learning a family goal. Join us for a summer of discovery, adventures, learning and fun!

EDGAR A. SMITH FAMILY YMCA 14650 Hwy 3, Webster, TX 77598 281-486-9622 ymcahouston.org/edgar-a-smith

• Day Camp • Swim Lessons • Youth Sports Register at ymcahouston.org

PERRY FAMILY YMCA 1700 League City Pkwy W, League City, TX 77573 281-338-9622 ymcahouston.org/perry-family

VIC COPPINGER FAMILY YMCA 2700 YMCA Drive, Pearland, TX 77581 281-485-6805 ymcahouston.org/vic-coppinger

YMCA Mission: To put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

Everyone is welcome.

previously healthy Iram awoke suddenly in an ambulance after suffering from a seizure. The seizure, as it turns out, was a messenger for what became a life changing diagnosis, a form of cancer called Grade 2 Diffuse Astrocytoma. The irony was that Iram, who had never called in sick to work a day in his life, was now on borrowed time. Iram recalls, “Most of us are in denial of our mortality. But there is no question that you are going to die. I am just doing some living before I do!” From that point on, he began each day by asking himself two questions: “Can I keep running?” and “Am I still fit to raise a kid?” As a single father of a beautiful girl, he recalled the

Fatherhood and Running… a Common Thread

By Keith Schreiter

About the Author Keith Schreiter is an author, speaker and marketing trainer. He lives in the Clear Lake area with his wife and 9 year old daughter Ella. He also volunteers as the Social Director for the Bay Area Running Club and the Marketing Director for Running Alliance Sport which puts on the Seabrook Lucky Trails Marathon, Baytown Heatwave, and the Texas Bridge Series.

22 www.txhwmagazines.com

As an avid runner and marathon enthusiast, I am constantly on the lookout for races and opportunities in the area. Searching the Web, I came across a picture and a story that has brought strength and inspiration to me as an athlete and as a father. The photo depicted a man, a father, named Iram Leon with his daughter tucked in a stroller, both at the starting line of the Gusher Marathon. Intrigued, I went on to learn that Iram, while pushing his daughter in a stroller, competed in a 26.2-mile race that day. This article tells the story of what inspired an athlete and a father to race through an illness for his family.

Five and a half years ago, a

answers to these two questions, “One is how I get through each day, and the other is why.”

It wasn’t until running in the Boston Marathon that Iram realized how essential it was for him to bridge the gap between his relationship with his daughter and his passion for running. He relates, “I saw my mom and my daughter cheering me on, and I stopped to give them a hug. That is when I realized that I needed to incorporate them more. As a result, my mom signed up for her first marathon, stating that she would run IF I would push my daughter in the stroller.” And so it began. “Every race after that, my daughter was with me.

I wouldn’t race unless she was allowed to come.”

It was because of Iram’s passion for running and his unconditional love for his daughter that I felt an instant

connection to this man and his family, as we share a passion for both in our lives. Upon reflection, I realized that I could have been Iram; that any one of us could be Iram. It was his wake-up call with cancer that sparked him to cherish life to its fullest and has inspired me to do the same.

I extended the invitation to Iram to run in the La Porte by the Bay Half Marathon with me last year. Both of us ended up experiencing this race, with our daughters (Iram’s in the stroller, mine waiting for me at the finish line). After completing the marathon and being thoroughly worn out, we found ourselves not relaxing, but at a bounce house with our girls who insisted it was their turn to play. Being a dad never ends at the finish line!

Last month, we raced again in the Seabrook Lucky Trail 5K Marathon where Iram broke the tape for the first time. I asked Iram later what advice he would give other fathers and he said “No one ever says on their deathbed, I wish I didn’t spend so much time with my kids.

Don’t wait for your deathbed.

Enjoy the little tiny wonders of life. Notice the little things that grownups seem to outgrow.

Dare to dream the impossible!

The cancer I have has a ten-year survival rate of only 10%. What I dare to dream is that if I make it to that finish line, it is because I kept moving forward, with those that I love.”

bsghw ahw |

MD Anderson Offers Support, Resources to Help Shoulder the Burden

F I TMNI LEYS W S ELLNESS FA

The cancer journey is a personal one, but it doesn’t have to be lonely. | H E Aseveral LT H The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center offers ways for patients and their loved ones to find support and information at the time of a cancer diagnosis, during treatment or after recovery. This wide range of programs and services is available to | FINANCIAL patients, caregivers and survivors, regardless of whether they were treated at MD Anderson in the Bay Area or the Texas Medical Center or elsewhere in the community. | M I N D a&program B O of DMD Y Beginning in 1985, as the Anderson Network, myCancerConnection, Anderson Cancer Center, offers one-on-one support for patients, survivors and caregivers so no one has to brave the cancer experience alone. | F A M I LY These connections can be made through:

sghw sghw sghw sghw sghw

Telephone support | C U LT U R E To talk to a survivor or caregiver who has had the same diagnosis or treatment, myCancerConnection can arrange a conversation anywhere in the world. To request a connection, call myCancerConnection in Houston at 713-792-2553 free | W E L orL toll NE SatS800-3456324. Last year, more than 2,000 trained survivor-volunteers connected with 2,370 patients and caregivers, working under the motto: “Sometimes the best help comes from someone who’s been there.”

sghw

Cancer Survivorship Conference Each year, myCancerConnection at MD Anderson Cancer Center sponsors a twoday conference for cancer patients, caregivers and family members. Not a fundraiser, the meeting celebrates survivorship and provides information, encouragement, entertainment and fellowship. More than 500 individuals come to the conference from all over the country each year.

This year, the 27th annual conference will be held Nov. 11 and 12 on the campus of MD Anderson in the Texas Medical Center. Watch for more information later this summer about the program and speakers.

By MD Anderson Cancer Center

Cancer 180 When cancer strikes, life can take a 180 degree turn. For young adults, it can be especially difficult on relationships, family, career and education. myCancerConnection offers a social environment where young adult patients, survivors, caregivers, family members and friends in their 20s and 30s can connect with other young adults impacted by cancer. Social outings and activities are available in the Houston area and free of charge. For information on upcoming events, please email cancer180@mdanderson.org or click on www.cancer180.org.

Support Groups In addition to the broader services available to patients with any diagnosis, there are specific support groups for patients in the Bay Area living with breast cancer or head and neck cancer. The support groups are open to patients throughout the Bay Area community.

A breast cancer support group, Breast Friends provides education and emotional support to women of all ages and in all stages of treatment or recovery. Breast Friends meets at MD Anderson in the Bay Area at 18100 St. John Drive on the second Wednesday of each month, from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. For more information, please call Diana Vasquez at MD Anderson in the Bay Area at 713-745-2396.

A support group for patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer meets on the second Tuesday of each month, from 5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. at MD Anderson in the Bay Area, 18100 St. John Drive For additional information, please contact Traci Newsom at MD Anderson in the Bay area at 713-563-0679.

Bay Area Health & Wellness Magazine | May/June 2016 23

bs ghw ahw |

F II TNN M DE - BSOSD Y

s ghw |

H E A LT H

s ghw |

F A M I LY

Top s ’ a e s ghw | FB IN aAy NACrI AaLmp Picks mDer& CB O D Y s ghw S| uMm IN Sports & Fitness:

Bay Area | Racquet s ghw C U LClub: T UTennis R E Summer Camps 281-488-7026 Website: www.BayAreaRacquetClub.com Are you seeking a fun filled week of learning a lifetime sport? With a very experienced tennis professional staff and an upbeat, positive learning environment, BARC WELLNESS brings the passion and enthusiasm for tennis to your child! We offer tennis camps for all ages and abilities at many locations in the Bay Area. Weekly and multiple week package options are available.

s ghw |

Bay Oaks Country Club Summer Camp 281-488-7888 Website: www.bayoakscountryclub.com Bay Oaks Summer camp, offered Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., is for kids ages 5 to 12. Campers will enjoy all kinds of activities including: golf, tennis, arts and crafts, games, fitness classes, swimming and much more. This camp is a wonderful way to challenge, entertain and introduce children to the tradition of Summer Camp. Please join us for one of the most dynamic programs in Texas!

City of Webster: Webster Way 2016 Ultimate Slammin Summer Camp 281-316-4137 Website: www.cityofwebster.com It’s time to jump into summer fun-from field trips to swimming! We look forward to presenting an exciting program for your child, ages 6-12. Four-2 week sessions to choose from June-July- Just Ballin’ (Main Event), Fun In The Sun (Moody Gardens/ Palm Beach), A Ticket To Boardwalk (Kemah Boardwalk), Just Puttin’ Around (PuttPutt Fun House)! Registration begins on the 5th. To register and view fees visit our website. Once on the website, click on “Departments” then “Recreation.”

Lobo Summer Camps: Gymnastics, Active, Cheer, Dance 281-480-5626 Website: www.lobogymnastics.com Lobo offers 12 FUNtastic weeks of exciting camps that children ages 3-14 will LOVE! We offer full-day/half-day and extended care 6am-6pm. What a fantastic way to spend the summer...gymnastics, active sports programs, field trips, dance, cheer/ tumble, swimming & more. Register online and see our other programs offeredchildcare, swim lessons, open gym, birthday parties, and classes.

Pearland Gymnastics Academy: Summer Daze 281-692-1496 Website: www.pearlandgym.com Gymnastics, tumbling, games crafts and more! Come be apart of our weekly themed camps for ages 4-13. We offer both full day camps from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and also half days too! Call for pricing and don’t forget to “like” us on Facebook.

Leaders 4 Life 281-535-1500 Website: www.leadersforlifema.com Leaders For life Martial Arts offers four summer camps that will keep your child moving and active all summer long. The camps include: Minecraft, Nerf, Water Wars and Demo Team. Camps also include a field trip to the pool and a camp shirt!

Register by calling 281-535-1500.

Bay Area Equestrian 281-996-1515 Website: www.baectx.com During this 2 day camp, riders (ages 6 and older) will learn skills and riding techniques, make crafts and horse treats, play horse games, make new friends, and have a horse show off on the second day of camp. Camp is offered on two select days from 8:00am-2:00 pm. Space is limited so register at 281-996-1515 or online to save your spot. All campers receive a free t-shirt.

Bay Access Summer Sailing Camp: Lakewood Yacht Club 281-474-2511 Website: www.bay-access.org Come enjoy a week of sailing, character building and fun! Learn basic sailing skills, water safety, seamanship and team building with the emphasis on safety and fun sailing education. The program is designed for students ages 7-18 with little or no experience. Space is limited, so register today at www.bay-access.org.

24 www.txhwmagazines.com

Fine Arts:

The Ceramic and Pottery Center 281-332-4490 Website: www.ceramicandpottery.com Looking for a fun and creative way to spend your summer? The Ceramic and Pottery Center offers fun summer camps that will feature clay, fused glass, ceramic painting and canvas painting. Register online or call to hold your “colorful” spot.

Overnight and Day Camps:

Charis Hills 940-964-2145 Website: www.charishills.org Charis Hills is a special needs, recreational summer camp. Charis Hills welcomes campers with ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Autism and Asperger’s. Campers will learn social skills, build confidence and receive academic instruction. Register online and let the fun begin!

Academic:

Mad Science of Houston 713-663-7623 Website: www.houstonmadscience.org Put on lab coats and goggles…it is time for science! Mystery, Red Hot Robots, Secret Agent Lab, Water Works and more to spark any child’s imaginative learning.

Join our world this summer, where curiosity is required and learning is FUN! Enroll today and discover the science behind all that surrounds you.

Bay Area Learning Center Summer Camp 281-218-7650 Website: www.BayAreaLearningCenter Bay Area Learning Center has won over 5 awards for being the BEST Learning Center in the Bay Area. Come join in the fun & find out why! Certified teachers and caring staff run small groups, educational and fun camps for all ages ranging from 3 to 12 years old. Don’t forget that we offer private one-on-one tutoring up to the college level! Visit us at www.BayAreaLearningCenter.Com

Adult Summer Camps:

Iditarod Fitness: Bikini Fit Camp 832-240-4033 Website: www.iditarodfitness.com Build your confidence to strut outside in your bikini! Join our Bikini Fit Camp on Thursdays and Saturdays from May 12th to June 4th. This camp will emphasize muscular strength and endurance, targeting the arms, chest, core, glutes and legs.

Call or register online.

Pets:

Camp Bow Wow Kemah 281-334-2267 Website: www.campbowwow.com/kemah Are you looking for a way to keep your dog active and healthy in the summer months? Camp Bow Wow Kemah provides regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight for your dog, relieves boredom, separation anxiety and improves the socialization of your dog with other dogs and people. Register with us online to enhance the quality of your dog’s life.

UT Physicians Care you can count on.

UT Physicians Bayshore Family Practice Center

UT Physicians Bayshore Multispecialty Clinic

11452 Space Center Blvd., Houston, TX 77059 713-486-6200

11476 Space Center Blvd., Houston, TX 77059 713-486-6325

• • • •

Counseling Services Family Medicine Internal Medicine Psychiatry

UT Physicians Pediatric Center at Bay Area 17150 El Camino Real, Houston, TX 77058 713-486-6425 • • • •

Behavioral Health General Pediatrics Pediatric Gastroenterology Pediatric Neurology

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Cardiology & Imaging Cardiothoracic & Vascular Surgery Ear, Nose & Throat Endocrinology Gastroenterology Hepatology/Liver Oncology Onsite Diagnostic Lab Services Orthopedics Rheumatology Surgery Urology

Bay Area Health & Wellness Magazine | May/June 2016 25

Your Mental Health Check Up

By Matt Brown, Ph.D., LMFT-S

Over the past several decades, we have experienced increasing awareness of health concerns and how they impact our lives. We are frequently inundated with information from empirical studies, reality TV, and our own lived experiences; all exposing us to the dangers and benefits of taking care of ourselves. It can be overwhelming to sift through all the things you should and should not be doing to achieve your optimal well-being. Fortunately, research is increasingly identifying areas of our lives that have the biggest impact on overall mental health. And just like your Primary Care Provider is able to conduct a regular physical exam focused on key indicators of health, this article will allow you to check in with yourself using key areas of mental health. We will focus on your relationships, stress, and mindset.

Relationships It is now well established that social relationships have an important impact on our mental health. In fact, our relationships are the single biggest predictor of our happiness. Recent research has shown that both relationship quantity and quality affect our mental health in positive and negative ways. When considering your own mental health, you may want to ask yourself how much time you are spending with those people who are important to you (quantity) and what that time looks like (quality). Are you being selective in your obligations, prioritizing time with family and friends? When you are with your loved ones, do you make intentional effort to connect through conversation or activities? If you find yourself lacking in this area, find ways to respectfully say no to those things that take you away from relationships and make the effort to connect when you are with those people you care about.

Stress Research has shown that stress itself is not the culprit of mental health problems; rather, it is the reactions we have to daily stressors that contribute to problems like depression and anxiety. How do you handle these daily stressors? Do you find yourself becoming emotionally or mentally flooded when confronted with seemingly small challenges? You may need to step back and take a look at how you are handling stress. The list of ways to better handle stress is too lengthy for this article, but it includes several things you might expect (e.g., exercise, deep breathing, meditation, etc.). Something else you might try is laughing. Laughter has been shown to have multiple health benefits, including boosting immune system functioning, physiological relaxation, and reduction of pain and stress. Find time to exercise your sense of humor!

26 www.txhwmagazines.com

Mindset Perhaps due to our social nature, we often compare ourselves to those around us. While there may be some benefits to this behavior (e.g., making positive changes to emulate those we admire), we need to guard against the tendency to focus on how we fall short when compared to others. Focusing on About the Author what we are lacking often leads to selfDr. Matt Brown is a licensed Marriage and Family interested behaviors aimed at keeping up Therapist. He holds a doctorate with the Jones’ in an attempt to measure degree from Texas Tech up. The problem is that this does not University and a master’s degree from Brigham Young lead to our intended outcome and has University. He is currently been shown to negatively impact mental Assistant Professor and health. Conversely, focusing on giving Program Director in the Marriage and Family Therapy of ourselves has the opposite effect. For program at the University of example, several studies have shown Houston-Clear Lake and the that when it comes to money, we report Clinic Manager at the South more satisfaction spending it on others Shore Center for Couples and Families. rather than ourselves. We also find deep meaning and purpose when we are engaged in meeting the needs of others. Similarly, and ever-growing body of research has shown that focusing on what we do have and expressing gratitude is linked to positive mental health. When was the last time you gave of yourself to better someone else’s life? How often do you take time to reflect on those things for which you are grateful? If your answers reflect a need to rededicate yourself, you might start by developing a regular time to reflect, write, or talk about what you are grateful for. Opportunities to serve others are everywhere, and we often find the hardest part is not having enough time. You may start small by finding ways to serve those closest to you in small but meaningful ways.

Now What?

Hopefully, you have had some time to reflect on areas where you are doing well and some areas where your efforts could lead to increased well-being. As with any positive change we make, something is always better than nothing. No matter how small your change efforts, you are moving in the right direction. Motivation increases as we act and you can create positive feedback loops that lead to improved mental health.

W E LI OL RN FO E S CS U S bs ghw a h w | SEN

The Aches of Aging

By Dr. Nicholas Howland

Despite our attempts to turn back time, aging is an inevitable reality for all and as time marches on, so do our bodies. Those nagging aches and pains that seem to come more often and stay longer as we age may be degenerative or osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis. Arthritis or joint pain, is a very common and painful condition that can affect any of us, regardless of our background, race, ethnicity, etc. In fact, arthritis has been shown to be the leading cause of disability in the U.S., with more than 50 million adults and 300,000 children dealing with arthritis pain on a daily basis.1 Understanding this condition is the first step towards treatment.

So what is Osteoarthritis? Osteoarthris is very common in older people and occurs when the cartilage on the ends of our bones wears down resulting in bones rubbing together. This, of course, causes great pain, swelling and stiffness at the joints. While we can’t turn back the clock on our bodies, we CAN do some things to help prevent or reduce the risk of developing osteoarthritis. These include reducing excess weight and living a healthy and active lifestyle.

Keep Moving! This may seem counterintuitive. When our bodies hurt they seem to tell our brains to stay put and move as little as possible. It is important to remember to move at all stages of life, particularly older adults. Both aerobic and resistance exercise training can help tremendously when dealing with arthritis. Aerobic exercise can decrease morning stiffness, improve sleep patterns, reduce fatigue and improve joint stability (along with all the other known benefits).

Any exercise regimen should be done in consultation with your physician and/or physical therapist to avoid injury. The following are four key points to help manage arthritis.

1. Pain Management: Make sure your pain is manageable before starting your exercise program or that the exercise program won’t worsen the pain. Consult with your doctor on which kinds of exercises will benefit you and which ones might be harmful.

2. Low and Slow: It is okay to start slow. Take the time to warm up and stretch out your muscles, especially if you are in pain. Do some gentle range of motion exercises to loosen up muscles. Low impact is the best way to exercise with arthritis with. Tai chi is a great example of an exercise that is low impact with slow movement which can increase balance, flexibility, and reduce pain.

3. Variety: Mix up your routine to keep it interesting and engaging.

When we get stuck in a single exercise or activity, we can become bored and disinterested.

4. Treat yourself right! Take the time to recover well! If needed, ice, elevate and compress joints and muscles after exercise to help with recovery.

About the Author Dr. Nicholas Howland graduated with a BA in Business Administration from the University of Utah. He then completed his medical degree from UTMB. He is currently a 4th year plastic surgery Resident at UTMB. Dr. Howland is fluent in Russian, and avid golfer, reader, and father of two beautiful children.

Arthritis.org

1

Brookdale Senior Living Center at Clear Lake offer excellent programs to seniors, especially for those struggling with arthritis pain. Be Fit Exercise, Chair Tai Chi and Ageless Spirit Relaxation are designed for this purpose.

Be Fit Exercise: Focuses on warm up, neuromotor, resistance, cardiorespiratory, flexibility and cool down.

(Great for arthritis.)

Chair Tai Chi: Combines modern Tai-chi, rhythimic breathing and the healing power of music. (Great for arthritis.)

Ageless Spirit Relaxation: Spiritual wellness by relaxation and meditation. This class can be used for pain management.

(Great for arthritis.)

Sit and Fit Videos: Is a 25 minutes full body workout.

Flex Your Brain: Class is to educated seniors about their brain and lifestyle factors that contribute to health.

Exercise with Yolanda: A fast paced class that works the whole body using weights.

Line Dancing: Simple, repetitive dance moves….exercise with a twist of fun!

Stretchercise: This class helps reduce serious injuries due to fall or loss of balance.

Pool & Chair Exercise: A 30 minute class to help develop strength, balance, mobility and flexibility.

Bay Area Health & Wellness Magazine | May/June 2016 27

We Earned This Lifestyle

We served our country, raised a family, and worked hard. We earned a rewarding retirement —

and we’re not about to slow down. That’s why we chose to live in a retirement community, where we have the chance to enjoy life to the fullest. From great meals to great times, we’re more active than ever. You would love it here, too.

Discover why Brookdale communities are such exceptional places to live.

Call (281) 316-9055 to schedule your personal visit.

Brookdale Clear Lake (Formerly The Terrace at Clear Lake) Independent Living

brookdale.com

780 West Bay Area Boulevardďż˝ |ďż˝ Webster, TX 77598 28 www.txhwmagazines.com

$// 7+( 3/$&(6 /,)( &$1 *2 LV D 7UDGHPDUN RI %URRNGDOH 6HQLRU /LYLQJ ,QF 1DVKYLOOH 71 86$ Š 5HJ 8 6 3DWHQW DQG 70 2I¿FH %URRNGDOH%UDQG:RUNV

Lucky Trails

Photo by John Walk

Astronaut 5K

Bay Area Health & Wellness Magazine | May/June 2016 29

bs ghw ahw |

F IEALT T N EHS S H

s ghw |

H E A LT H

:: HEALTH Q&A

s ghw | FINANCIAL

By Jamie Porter Question: s ghw | MIND & BODY When life and work become overwhelming,

what do you recommend for someone to do to help relieve | F AtheMpressure I LY and stress?

s ghw

Answer: s ghw | C U LT U R E It’s interesting that you ask this, as it appears to be a life long struggle. The answer is one word: BALANCE! W E L L N E S S

s ghw |

Jamie holds a Master’s degree in Marriage & Family Therapy from the University of Houston – Clear Lake. She is a Marriage & Family

Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor currently working for the

Center for Couples & Families and Youth and Family Counseling Services.

Jamie is an AAMFT Supervisor in Training in which she helps train other therapists in family therapy.

One thing that I am learning at the personal and professional level, is how to find a space where I can commit to do what is required of me at home and at work, to a level that I am happy with, and find personal time for myself. It feels like a daunting task, however with the right strategies and know how, it CAN be done.

Strategy #1 – Prioritize and Organize: Make a list with what is most important on top and cross items off as you go. This will help you remember what it is that must get done. Organize your time by giving yourself time limits and goals to reach. Be realistic with how much you can do in a day. A wise man (my husband) reminds me often that “what you don’t get done today will get done tomorrow.” So TRUE! Don’t surround yourself with words like “DO IT ALL,” “EVERYTHING,”“ALL THE TIME,”“SUPERMOM,” or “FULL PLATE.” It is not realistic or healthy.

Stragegy #2 – Stay Focused and Set Boundaries: What does that mean? Establish clear limits for what you can and cannot do. These boundaries can be physical, emotional and even spiritual.

Leave work at work and leave home at home. I talk to my clients a lot about it in terms of ‘hats’ or ‘coats.’ If you feel that they are starting to blend and boundaries become blurred, stop. Make sure that you only wear that hat/coat in that particular place of employment or home. Don’t wear both of them.

You’ll burn yourself out!

Strategy #3 – You Time: Don’t forget about yourself. Make time to work out, eat healthy, and rest. STOP and PAUSE to enjoy the moment that you are in. Use your senses to fully appreciate the world around you. Being in the moment will help with feeling overwhelmed. It stops the brain from worrying about the things you can’t control.

What’s Your Question?

Do you have a question that needs to be answered? Ask our local experts and editorial board! Please submit your question to bahwmagazine@gmail.com. Please include your name and email address. Don’t worry, we will keep you anonymous in the magazine!

30 www.txhwmagazines.com

BRINGING CLARITY TO UNCERTAIN TIMES Don’t let economic uncertainty affect your financial future.

Thrivent Financial is a Fortune 500 membership organization of Christians.

We have more than 100 years of financial services experience. This unique combination positions us to help you weather these uncertain times.

Put the strength and stability of Thrivent Financial to work for you.

Contact a financial representative today.

Houston Bay Area

17450 El Camino Real • Houston, TX 77058

281-461-6200

Thrivent Financial was named one of the “World’s Most Ethical Companies” by Ethisphere Institute 2012–2015.

Jerry Roth CFP®, MBA Wealth Advisor

James Guthrie CLTC®, FIC Financial Associate

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP® CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

Thrivent Financial representatives are licensed insurance agents/producers of Thrivent Financial, the marketing name for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, Appleton, WI. They are also registered representatives of Thrivent Investment Management Inc., 625 Fourth Ave S., Minneapolis, MN 55415. For additional important information, visit Thrivent.com/disclosures.

Appleton, Wisconsin • Minneapolis, Minnesota • Thrivent.com • 800-847-4836 27675 R3-14

BEST OF BAY AREA DIRECTORY ART GALLERIES & STUDIOS

Upper Bay Frame & Gallery 2450 E. Main Suite # D League City TX, 77573 patricia@upperbayframe.com upperbayframe.com (281) 333-9199

ATHLETIC CLUBS Bay Area Racquet Club, “Clear Lake’s Finest Tennis Club” 17901 Kings Park LN, Houston, TX 77058 www.Bayarearacquetclub.com (281) 488-7026 Bayarearacquetclub@yahoo.com

AUDIOLOGY

Bay Area Audiology & Hearing Aids 17099 N Texas Ave # 200, Webster, TX 77598 chandaabbott@bayareaaudiology.com www.bayareaaudiology.com (281) 332-4575 ex 0

BANKING Woodforest National Bank 255 FM 518, Kemah TX 77565 www.woodforest.com 281-535-0690 kmcgarthy@woodforest.com

CHIROPRACTIC

McWellness Health Care, Amy McDaniel DC, Lac 17000 El Camino Real #304 B, Houston, TX 77058 dr.amymcdaniel@gmail.com www.dramymcdaniel.wix.com/mcwellness www.Facebook.com/mcwellness (281) 488-WELL 9355

CONSTRUCTION DeLange Tile and Design 5006 Harbor Light Dr, Dickinson, TX 77539 delange.tile.design@gmail.com www.facebook.com/delangetileanddesign (801) 735-5393

COUNSELING The South Shore Center for Couples & Families 549 N. Egret Bay Blvd, League City TX 77573 info@southshorefamilies.com www.southshorefamilies.com (281) 317-7326 The Pearland Center for Couples & Families 11200 Broadway Suite 2743, Pearland, TX 77584 www.pearlandfamilies.com (281) 317-7326

DANCE Kennedy Dance Theatre 1001 Pineloch Dr Suite 100, Houston, TX 77062 office@kennedydance.com www.kennedydance.com (281) 480-8441

DENTISTS Raul S. Saenz II DDS, PA, & Associates 2200 Space Park Dr #208, Nassau Bay, TX 77058 office@docsaenzdds.com www.ismile4u.com (281) 335-5577

EYE CARE Berkeley Eye Center 18040 Saturn Ln, Nassau Bay, TX 77058 localmarketing@berkeleyeye.com www.berkeleyeye.com/locations/clear-lake (281) 333-8600

family medicine La Porte Family Clinic 401 W Fairmont Pkwy, La Porte, TX 77571 341 Parkwood Dr, Friendswood, TX 77546 lpfc_drmoosa@yahoo.com www.Mdvip.com/AbdulMoosaMD (281) 470-4740

BEST OF BAY AREA DIRECTORY 2016

FITNESS

Iditarod Fitness 2590 Falcon Pass Clear Lake TX info@iditarodfitness.com www.iditarodfitness.com (832) 240-4033 Orangetheory Fitness 9517 W. Broadway #115, Pearland TX 77584 www.oragnetheoryfitness.com/pearland studio0361@orangetheoryfitness.com (281) 377-1723

Hair Design Anitas Cut Above Hair Design 2660 Marina Bay Drive Ste 105 League City TX 77573 www.anitascutabovehairdesign.com (281) 334-3000 facebook: anitascutabove hutchersonanita@yahoo.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS The Wellness Way 13810 John Audubon Pkwy, Suite B, Webster, TX 77598 www.TWWClinics.com (281) 488-8300 Melissa DeLange, doTERRA Wellness Advocate (Gold) 5006 Harbor Light Dr, Dickinson, TX 77539 delange.essentials@gmail.com mydoterra.com/melissadelange (801) 362-4801 iCryo Pro Health Center 1260 E League City Pkwy, Suite #100 League City, TX 77573 info@i-cryo.com www.i-cryo.com (832) 905-2962

house goods Down By the Bay Tupperware tamkristery@yahoo.com www.my.tupperware.com/Tammyhickman (281) 352-3884

jewelry Xaver Jewels 6222 Richmond Ave #315 Houston TX 77507 saumil@xaverjewels.com www.xaverjewels.com (832) 242-7836

LANDSCAPING SERVICES By the Coach Professional Landscaping 409 Cedar Lake, League City, TX 77573 (281) 731-2174

MARTIAL ARTS Advantage BJJ Martial Arts and Fitness 10555 Pearland Parkway Suite U Houston TX 77089 carrie@advantagebjj.com www.advantagebjj.com (832) 509-0255 Leaders For Life Martial Arts 391 Columbia Memorial Parkway, Kemah, TX 77565 Leaders4LifeTX@gmail.com LeadersForLifeMA.com (281) 535-1500

MEDICAL CENTER Clear Lake Regional Medical Center 500 Medical Center Blvd. Webster, TX 77598 Clearlakermc.com (281) 332-2511 Rita.cunningham@hcahealthcare.com

PET CARE

PHOTOGRAPHY Rhonda Floyd Photography 612 Hwy 3 North, League City, TX 77573 rhonda@rhondafloyd.com www.rhondafloyd.com Studio: (281) 332-5490; Cell: (281) 380-8019

plastic surgeons Dr. Kimberly Carpin Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon 2020 NASA Parkway, Suite 260, Houston, TX 77058 (281) 333-4600 www.drkimberlycarpin.com

PODIATRY

Clear Lake Foot and Ankle Specialists, PA 13810-B John Audubon Pwky, Webster, TX 77598 info@clearlakefoot.com www.clearlakefoot.com (281) 488-8300

REALTORs James Brockway, Broker 549 N. Egret Bay Blvd #300A, League City, TX 77573 www.brockwayrealty.com (281) 684-6482 Brockway Realty/Brockway Commercial www.brockwaycommercial.com

RESTAURANT Maine-ly Sandwiches- Pearland 3320 East Broadway St. #128 Pearland, TX 77581 justacy70@yahoo.com Facebook: mainelysandwiches.com (281) 485-5866

SENIOR CARE Stephen Andriko, Senior Care Advocate Seabrook, TX 77586 steve@theroadmaptoseniorcare.com www.theroadmaptoseniorcare.com (832) 439-8029

SENIOR LIVING The Crossings, An MRC Healthy Living Community 255 N. Egret Bay Blvd, League City, Texas 77573 www.mrcthecrossings.org 866-835-2877 and 281-724-2345 Abe Zimmerman, Marketing Director azimmerman@mrcaff.org

skin CARE Ever Skin Skin Care Representative: Anne Nance www.everskin.com/with/annenance nancecali@gmail.com (409) 392-1397

SPA Bergamos Spa Retreat 313 E. Edgewood Dr, Friendswood, TX 77546 bergamoshr@gmail.com www.bergamossparetreat.com (281) 992-3775

TRAVEL & LEISURE

Magical Vacations Marissa McClellen, Independent Travel Consultant Specializing in Selling Disney Destinations 832-969-8189 Marissa@saymagicalvacations.com www.saymagicalvacations.com

URGENT CARE

Urgent Clinics Medical Care 2660 Marina Bay Drive, League City, TX 77573 2560 Hwy 96, Suite B, League City, TX 77573 4420 W Main St, Suite A, League City, TX 77573 www.urgentclinicsmedicalcare.com (843) URGENT-1

The Pet Palace 14300 Gulfstream Park Dr, Webster, TX 77598 info@thepetpalace.net www.thepetpalace.net (281) 286-4400

The Bay Area Health & Wellness Magazine recommends the trustworthy and highly respected business owners and clinics found in The Best of the Bay Area Directory. When doing business, don’t forget to mention that you saw their listing in the BAHW Magazine.

If you are interested in having your business represented in the directory, please call us at 832-323-3020.

Bay Area Health & Wellness Magazine | May/June 2016 31

URGENT CARE FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

WWW.URGENTCLINICSMEDICALCARE.COM 32 www.txhwmagazines.com