One of the newest additions to the neurosurgical team is Farah Fourcand, MD, Director of the Stroke Center at Indian River Hospital. See
Sjögren Disease Update
New guidelines change the diagnosis of Sjögren’s syndrome to Sjögren disease. They recommend rheumatologists and other clinicians caring for patients with the condition to “do the little -things well rather than overly focusing on rheumatologic treatments stated,” stated Elizabeth Price, MBBCh, PhD. “Many of the patients [who] come to see me for a second opinion have not been prescribed the right eye drops, have not been given advice on dental care,” with their management taking “too much on the rheumatological treatments.”
Dr. Price share that “Rheumatologists are of course not trained or expected to be experts in ophthalmology or dentistry, but “you need to look at their mouth and you do need to examine their eyes, and you do need to give them some advice.
Listed below are some of the updated recommendations.
• Use preservative-free eye drops every 2-3 hours. Avoid preservatives, because preservatives flatten the corneal surface and reduce the surface area and can cause inflammation
• For dry mouth and oral care use a saliva substitute for symptomatic relief. Maintain a neutral pH as an alkaline environment in the mouth acid damages dental enamel. Brush regularly with a fluoride-based toothpaste. (The use of xylitol-containing products has been shown to reduce bacteria known to increase the risk for dental decay. Telling patients not to eat between meals is also simple but important advice. )
• For vaginal dryness, consider topical nonhormonal vaginal moisturizers plus estrogen creams in peri- or postmenopausal women with significant vaginal dryness. An acidic vaginal moisturizer is needed to treat vaginal dryness.
• Assess and treat patients holistically. Consider cognitive-behavioral therapy and exercise therapies to help with the symptoms of fatigue and joint pain.
You can read more about the guidelines at https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/updated-sjogren-disease-guidelinetakes-new-approach-2024a10008g1?ecd=WNL_trdalrt_pos1_240504_etid6492052&uac=319510AZ&impID=6492052 (Source: Updated Sjögren Disease Guideline Takes New Approach, Format - Medscape - May 01, 2024).
VOLUME 150 COMPLIMENTARY
Heartbeat of Indian River County is a locally-owned publication.
OWNER/PUBLISHER
Cindy Bryant
DESIGN
Mike Renfro
EDITOR
Colleen D. Symanski, RN, CDCES
SPECIAL FEATURE WRITERS
Theresa Tolle, R.PH
Peggy Cunnigham, CEO
Alzheimers & Parkinsons Assoc. of I.R. Co.
Bobbi Kleinschmidt
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Seek. Find. Win.
Find these 5 symbols hidden in this issue and 3 LUCKY random drawing winners will receive $10 GAS GIFT CARDS.
Email your results to cindy@indianriverpublishers.com
Welcome to a new Hearbeat issue! It’s energizing to have businesses and stories that reflect what is happening in our community. We follow-up with past stories, update resources for you, as well as share local resources that make a difference.
It’s about communicating passion and recognizing the efforts of others. I was in awe with the services that Treasure Coast Prosthetic & Orthotic Services does for people and pets. The Women’s Refuge of Vero Beach is another organization of devotion. Read about the VNA Health & Wellness Forum & Luncheon. Sunshine Physical Therapy has a new partnership with ARC for onsite therapy services. Also in this issue is the SRA Go Line Expansion.
My mission is to bring you hope through quality resources, quality standards of care, and businesses and volunteers that exemplify hope and excellence in our county. When you visit our local experts that you read about, let them know Heartbeat led them you to them.
I remember when I didn’t know where to turn. I have friends and family seeking answers. My community guided me and led me to help others. Heartbeat pays this forward and shares the best resources and information for a better quality of life for you and your loved ones.
STAY COOL THIS SUMMER, HYDRATE AND ONLY DO WHAT YOU ABSOLUTELY HAVE TO OUTSIDE....STAY IN THE AC
Elevating Neurosurgical Care at Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital
Advancing age is the single most significant risk factor for neurological disease.
That simple truth is one reason Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital has expanded its neurosciences team and is making sure it has access to the advanced technology and resources needed to care for the area’s aging residents.
Today about a third of Indian River County’s population is over the age of 65. The county’s median age is considerably older than the median age for the State of Florida, surpassing it by 10 years, according to 2018 data.
“For the last five years, we’ve worked to assemble a team of neurosurgery specialists who complement each other’s strengths and areas of expertise so that area residents can find the care they need close to home,” says Badih Adada, MD, Chair of the Neurosciences Institute for Cleveland Clinic in Florida. “We have a dedicated group of highly skilled physicians at Indian River Hospital offering patients expert neurosurgical care for everything from epilepsy and stroke to brain tumors and spinal conditions.”
New stroke center director
One of the newest additions to the neurosurgical team is Farah Fourcand, MD, Director of the Stroke Center at Indian River Hospital. A board-certified neurologist and stroke specialist, Dr. Fourcand is fellowship-trained in neurocritical care and neurointerventional surgery. She is also the first person to complete the National Institutes of Health’s physician-scientist neurology program.
Farah Fourcand, MD
“My advanced training in neuro endovascular surgery enables me to use minimally invasive techniques to protect and restore blood flow and oxygen to the brain for patients with cerebrovascular conditions, including stroke,” explains Dr. Fourcand.
As the fifth leading cause of death in the United States and a primary source of serious, long-term disability, stroke is one of the most common neurological conditions impacting Floridians.
The Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital team provides expert neurosurgical care for everything from epilepsy and stroke to brain tumors and spinal conditions.
“Providing comprehensive cerebrovascular care and adhering to evidencebased guidelines is a major focus of our team,” says Dr. Fourcand. “Our expectations for consistency and quality are very high at Cleveland Clinic and even more stringent than some national benchmarks.”
Just three years after earning recognition as a Joint Commission Primary Stroke Center in 2018, Indian River Hospital’s certification was upgraded by the Joint Commission to Thrombectomy Capable Stroke Center. The hospital has also received the American Stroke Association’s “Get with the Guidelines” award for greater than 80% compliance with national stroke quality indicators multiple times.
Endovascular expertise
Mechanical thrombectomy is a recent advancement in acute ischemic stroke treatment. The endovascular, or catheter-based, procedure restores blood flow in the brain by using either a large bore aspiration tube to suck out the blockage-causing clot or a mechanical retrieval device to pull the clot out.
“This minimally invasive technique can be more effective for blockages of a certain size or location than traditional clot-busting medication,” says Dr. Fourcand, noting stroke care is only one area where advanced endovascular treatments are employed.
continued on page 40
Personal Care Challenges of Cancer Treatment and Care
Friends after Diagnosis is a wonderful local organization that helps women through the challenges of cancer treatment and care. We wrote an article about them earlier and shared the many services they provide; but in this edition we want to focus on the personal care services they offer. Cancer treatments are hard on the body and can also cause additional challenges. These challenges may be hair loss, mastectomies, and reduced positive body image. The lack of knowledge of resources can be frustrating and costly in an already difficult situation.
Friends after Diagnosis provides personal care items such as :
a) chemo kits,
b) head coverings and wigs,
c) mastectomy bras and breast prosthesis
These personal care items can be expensive but are available at no charge at Friends after Diagnosis. Please call and make an appointment for your privacy and needed for your centered- care. Listed below is a brief description of items available.
• Chemo kits provide everything you need while sitting in the doctor’s office for hours during treatment such as lip balms, puzzle books, hard candy, and journals. These items help during the treatment process and provide activities to provide relaxation while in treatment.
• With over 500 wigs in stock, they are glad to schedule an appointment to find the perfect one for you! All wigs are sanitized before distribution. During the appointments, individuals receive instructions on wear and maintenance (provided with accessories such as wig bands, hair pins, and stocking caps).
You may also be referred to partnered salons for haircuts and wig styling. Wig fittings require about 60 minutes (fittings are by appointment only).
• Interested in being fitted with a new or gently used breast prosthesis? With over 150 styles in stock, they are normally able to accommodate most sizes. All items are sanitized before distribution. Fittings require approximately 45 minutes (appointments are required).
• With hundreds of bras in stock, there is a wide range of colors, sizes, and styles that fit your personal style. All bras are new or gently used. All items are washed and sanitized before distribution. Fittings require approximately 45 minutes (appointments are required).
If you are newly diagnosed, in remission, or have a reoccurrence I urge you to reach out to Friends After Diagnosis. The knowledge and experience these women have to share is amazing. If you are not sure, call and schedule a one-onone appointment. You can drop-in and visit them on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. If you are not up to seeing them yet, ask a loved one or friend to stop by for you.
Friendship House: 3404 Aviation Boulevard, Vero Beach (772) 770-9700 • www.friendsafterdiagnosis.com
2300 5th Ave., Ste 150 Vero Beach, FL 32960
772-563-0505
alzpark.org
Peggy Cunningham, Executive Director
Building a DementiaFriendly Community
True empathy isn’t simply seeing the world through someone’s perspective; it is understanding how they feel. Those suffering with dementia are often isolated simply because the community around them haven’t the tools to understand how to approach someone whose cognitive abilities are diminishing. The key to interacting with someone who has dementia is, in fact, understanding how they feel.
A dementia friendly community is a place where people living with dementia can thrive; with lives that have meaning, purpose, and value for as long as possible. To achieve this we are working with families as well as businesses, banks, hospitals, senior living and care facilities, restaurants, churches, schools, emergency services and law enforcement, providing comprehensive training that involves participation in a dementia experience. This is a scientifically proven method of training designed to build awareness and sensitivity for those caring for or engaging with, someone with dementia. This immersive experience gives the person going through the training the perspective and the understanding of life with dementia.
Continued on page 45
The Women’s Refuge - Providing a Safe Place for Restoration and Healing
The Women’s Refuge of Vero Beach was founded in 1997 by Donna Lee Robart and her husband Ted for people experiencing emotional, mental, and spiritual problems. The Refuge offers a Christian live-in program for women, a biblical counseling center for individuals, marriages, and families, support groups for women to heal the whole person through Christ, and to make training available to disciple others.
They provide a safe place for women to reflect on their needs, past hurts, and future plans with a biblical curriculum and counselors to guide them along the path God has designed for each of them.
The Women’s Refuge live-in program is for women ages 18 and older. The two-week Core Foundational Program starts women on their healing journey. For those who want/need more, they are encouraged to stay longer and enjoy the benefits of our 3-6-9-month programs.
Phase I: “Take Off” This three-month phase identifies coping mechanisms and takes off lies and false messages she has believed about herself.
Phase II: “Put On” This three-month phase she learns what God’s Word says about her and puts on the truth of who she is in Christ.
Phase III: “Give Away” This three-month phase she learns application and sharing her knowledge, walking in truth, and establishing safe boundaries as she learns through her healing process at the Refuge. Throughout their stay, women receive one-on-one biblical counseling, study materials, group support, housing, and meals,
which are all included in the program’s cost.
The Refuge offers help, hope, and healing to women experiencing:
• emotional and/or spiritual problems
• depression, anxiety, or mental health challenges
• past and recent trauma, divorce, grief, relational conflict
• a desire for biblical discipleship training for ministering to other women.
The two week “Core Foundational” program provides powerful help, hope, and healing for those with time constraints. Perhaps you need a two-week break from work, home, or a combination of both? This is a wonderful time to unplug from life’s distractions and to seek God’s will for your life.
The Women’s Refuge embraces community and provides women’s support
groups for anger management, sexual abuse survivors, help to conquer codependency, and an ongoing Overcomers study. The biblical counseling office serves women, men, and families. The Refuge brings healing and wholeness through Christ to each person who comes for counseling. Their trained biblical counselors are compassionate women with years of experience dealing with a variety of issues.
Discover more at their website www.womensrefugevb.org. Be sure to shop the Women’s Refuge Resale Shop located in the Collins Center at 1615 10th Avenue, Vero Beach. The Refuge is a non-profit 501c3 ministry. Consider being a financial supporter in their ongoing work to restore the lives of women and their families by giving to the Women’s Refuge.
Coastal Concierge Services
Kenny Borchers is the Coastal Concierge Services Client Care Specialist. Many say he has the “fun” job. He calls out bingo numbers, schedules horse-drawn carriage rides, and sets up dunk tanks for our local senior living and assisted living
Client Care Specialist
Kenny also delivers baskets of goodies and throws pizza parties to the dedicated heroes who work in those communities. He even costumes himself as Santa, Cupid, the Easter Bunny and even a taco! Kenny enjoys his job and recognizes that it’s more than just fun and games.
Kenny is a life-long Florida resident and has lived in Vero Beach for nearly 20 years. He joined the Coastal Concierge family in September 2020, hitting the ground running with creating fun and constantly looking for more ways to engage seniors. He brings over a decade of management experience in assisted living facilities. He also delivers meals-on-wheels for the last two years and has been a volunteer for over 8 years; an indication that his care for seniors is not just a job to him. Kenny always offers seniors a hug and a reason to celebrate.
Kenny is driven to assist Coastal Concierge Services clients with as much care as they need. He hopes that someone will be there for him as he gets older.
“It’s important for seniors to engage with life, enjoy their golden years,” explains Kenny. “Games like bingo keep their minds active, so it’s not just something that’s fun for them to do, it’s important to their health and well-being.”
by Bobbi Kleinschmidt
Healthcare Close to Home, in One Place
When your child needs to see a doctor, timing is extremely important. For this reason, TCCH is committed to scheduling pediatric appointments within days of your first call. If a sick child needs a doctor asap, same day appointments are available.
Board-certified pediatricians and APRNs provide the healthcare your family needs, close to home, in one place. They understand that regular well checks improve a child’s lifelong outcomes in learning, physical well-being, and mental health. Focusing on early healthcare benefits each young life and the entire community.
TCCH providers take time to answer questions and talk about your concerns as a parent. We invite you to see why more than 33,000 people trust TCCH with their family’s healthcare. New patients are always welcome. Visit us at tcchinc.org, call 772-257-8224, or scan the QR code.
About TCCH
TCCH brings together multiple services and specialties for a comprehensive team approach that is more convenient and cost effective for individuals and the community. Eight health centers offer behavioral and mental health, dental, medical, pharmacy and vision services. TCCH is a certified patient-centered medical and dental home, caring for pediatric to senior patients. TCCH offers a sliding fee discount based on household income and family size.
2300 5th Ave., Ste 150 Vero Beach, FL 32960
772-563-0505
alzpark.org
Jane Seymour answering questions from the audience after her presentation
Jane Seymour inspires audience at Successful Aging Luncheon to benefit Alzheimer & Parkinson Association
Jane Seymour was the inspirational guest speaker at the fifth annual Successful Aging Luncheon, hosted by and benefiting the Alzheimer & Parkinson Association of Indian River County. Held on April 10th at the Vero Beach Museum of Art, the actress, artist, and philanthropist shared personal stories of how to live life with grace and hope, stressing the importance of serving others. It was a packed house, and everyone left inspired, undoubtedly with a nugget of wisdom on how to live life more abundantly. Attorney and philanthropist John Moore served as Master of Ceremonies. A VIP reception was held the evening before in a private beachside home for major sponsors and board members. Thank you to the following individuals and businesses for sponsoring this year’s luncheon: Sandy and Randy Rolf; Becky and Bob Allen; SpirePoint Private Client Financial Services; Nancy and Bob Puff; Michelle and Walter Borisenok; Premier Estate Properties; Brown Talley Group; and an anonymous donor.
The Alzheimer & Parkinson Association staff with Ms. Seymour: Front: Peggy Cunningham, Ms. Seymour, Mindy Servis, Courtney Sanchez. Back: Maria Springer, Susan Micheel, Gabby Mishler
Barbara Leigh, Marge Collins and Terrie Mitchell
Randy and Sandy Rolf and Scott Alexander
Becky Allen, Bill Penney and Carol Clapper
Peggy Cunningham and Jane Seymour.
Luncheon committee members: Peggy Cunningham, Sandy Rolf, Beth Livers, Jeanne Guttman, with Jane Seymour, Sue Tompkins, Mindy Servis, Melissa Talley, and Emilie Burr
Chase Rogers and Suzi McCoy
The sold-out luncheon was held at the Vero Beach Museum of Art.
•Tier system of stylists - a stylist for every guests schedule and/or budget.
•6000 sq ft facility hosting the most talented stylists in the Treasure Coast.
•All stylists are advance color and cutting specialists.
•Haircut, blow dry, and style starting at $5700.
•Manicures, Gel Manicures, and Pedicures!
•Massage: Swedish, Therapeutic, Deep, Sport, Hot stone and more!
•Esthetician on staff for all your skincare needs specializing in microdermabrasion and Anti-aging.
•Electrology! Permanent hair removal for all hair types.
•100% Guaranteed experience.
Treasure Coast Prosthetic and Orthotic Services
Are you suffering from painful ankle arthritis or one leg being shorter than the other and need a brace? Have you lost a limb in an accident, due to medical reasons, or from a congenital condition and need of a prosthetic limb? Is your quality of life restricted, preventing you from doing the simplest of exercise, especially walking?
Jesus Paredes, Technician; ,Michele Hilley, Receptionist; Paul Werner Board Certified Prosthetist/Orthotist; Jennifer Davis, Board Certified Prosthetists/Orthotist and Christopher O’Toole, Office Manager. Not shown Bruce W. Buffington, Board Certified Prosthetists/Orthotist
Choosing a prosthetist or orthotist is a major decision for those facing an amputation or for those requiring bracing. Each person’s needs, preferences, and situation are unique. Fortunately, we have Treasure Coast Prosthetic and Orthotic Services; eastern Florida’s premier provider of prosthetic and orthotic care since 1981. They provide the most appropriate device for your individual situation, including some of the most technologically advanced devices in the industry.
Treasure Coast Prosthetic and Orthotic Products
Prosthetics
• Above- and Below-Knee Prostheses
• Above- and Below-Elbow Prostheses
• Partial Foot Prostheses
• Microprocessor-Controlled Devices
• Hydraulic Ankles
• Water-Resistant Swim Prostheses
• Custom Socket Designs
Orthotics
• Ankle-Foot Orthoses (AFO)
• Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthoses (KAFO)
• Supra-Malleolar Orthotics (SMO)
• Spinal Orthoses
Below elbow prostheses
• Knee Orthoses
• Cervical Orthoses
• Humeral Fracture Bracing
Pedorthics
• Custom Foot Orthotics
• Pre-Fabricated Foot Orthotics
Pediatric
• Pediatric Leg Bracing
• Pediatric Special Needs Bracing
• Pediatric Prostheses
Canine
• Canine Knee Support Orthoses and Custom Canine Prostheses
Treasure Coast Prosthetic and Orthotic focuses on attention to detail when fabricating your device and all fabrication is done in their fabrication lab. Their clinicians are hands-on and involved in all aspects of fabrication and maintenance. Together with you, they create the most functional solution for your prosthetic or orthotic needs. Their experienced pract-itioners focus on helping each patient achieve their goals.
A prosthesis or orthosis is a custom-made device that will require several visits for a proper fit and numerous follow-up visits to maintain good function. They recommend a visit to their Vero Beach or Ft. Pierce office for the quickest and most thorough treatment. Also consider a pre-amputation consultation so you will know what to expect following your surgery.
Health insurance is complex and confusing. But don’t worry, their experienced office staff can answer your billing
Custom Cosmetics
continued on page 29
Sunshine Physical Therapy and The Arc of Indian River County Improve Access to Care!
Sunshine Physical Therapy and The Arc of Indian River County have formed a partnership. Both are local not-for profits that address quality of life and healthcare in our community. Collaboration reduces gaps in care and increase resources. Let’s review. Sunshine Physical Therapy Clinic provides adults and children with high level therapy services from caring and qualified professionals regardless of the patient’s ability to pay. The Arc of Indian River County promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.
Benefits of this partnership. Sunshine Physical Therapy Clinic is able to reduce barriers to provide therapy services to adults at The Arc. The Arc no longer needs to schedule numerous therapy appointments for individuals outside of their location. Sunshine Physical Therapy Clinic now goes to The Arc main location to provide Occupational and Speech therapy services. Streamlining scheduling and travel allows more patients to receive care.
Services Offered. Sunshine Physical Therapy Clinic believes that everyone deserves quality healthcare services. Their team consists of physical therapists, occupational therapists and speech therapists. They also offer the Sadlek Sensorium to assist with sensory regulation. Sunshine Physical Therapy Clinic will soon provide group therapy sessions at The ARC. These sessions will offer an additional avenue for individuals to receive therapy in a supportive group setting.
Joining forces with The Arc has a significant impact on our community by providing essential services to individuals needing therapy. Sunshine Physical Therapy Clinic is located at 1705 17th Avenue, Vero Beach, FL 32960. Visit their website at www.sunshineptc.org to learn more about the quality services they provide for people of all ages.
Emergency Preparedness Checklist:
For You & For Your Pet
“If you aren’t prepared for emergencies then neither are your pets. Both you and your pets need a plan that includes supplies, important contact and evacuation information. Preparing for your needs and theirs will help you and your pets to stay together, healthy and safe.”
For Your Pets
Communication/Contacts
Key contact information for family, friends, colleagues, neighbors
Out-of-state contact
Nearest hospital
Medical group or physician
Important Documents
Important documents in a waterproof container
Personal identification
Social Security Card
Passport
Medical card and health information
Insurance information
Photo of household members
Inventory of valuable household items
Supplies
Water and food (3 day supply)
Medicines (if needed)
First aid kit/supplies
Special items (hearing aids, eye glasses, contacts, diapers, baby formula/food, wheelchair, canes, walkers)
Flashlight and radio
Cash and small bills
Personal hygiene items
Communication/Contacts
Key contact information for family, friends, colleagues, neighbors who can help with pet if you are not home
Pet-sitter
Nearest veterinarian
Veterinarian outside of your area
24 Hour animal hospital
Important Documents
Important documents in a waterproof container
Pet identification
Pet license/registration
Microchip information
Vaccination documents (especially rabies)
Medical records
Detailed information about special health needs (medicine, feeding schedule)
Recent picture with owner
List of your pets hiding places
Supplies
Water and food (one week supply)
Medicines (if needed)
First aid kit/supplies
Carrier or cage for each pet
Leash and muzzle
Bedding
Comfort items: toys, blankets, treats
Sanitation items: paper towels, newspaper, plastic trash bags, household bleach
Prepare Plan Recover
questions and are trained to simplify the billing and reimbursement process. Treasure Coast Prosthetic and Orthotic Services are providers for Medicare, Medicaid, and many private insurances. They work with your provider to determine eligibility and benefits.
Today’s healthcare environment demands effective communication between your clinician, your physician, and your therapist. Having served the community for over 40 years, Treasure Coast Prosthetic and Orthotic Services has excellent relationships with many medical providers along Florida’s Treasure Coast. This helps make them uniquely qualified to give you the most thorough prosthetic and orthotic care. They cultivate lifelong relationships with patients. Long-term support is an important part of patient care.
Treasure Coast Prosthetic and Orthotic Services provides high quality solutions that improve quality of life.
Prosthetic and Orthotic Care for your Canine
We offer Canine Knee Support Orthoses and Custom Canine Prosthesis and partner with Dr. Amber CallawayLewis with Treasure Coast Animal Rehab in Vero Beach. She specializes in rehabilitative care for your pets. Their goal is to bridge the gap between general care and comprehensive senior and geriatric centered medicine. Ultimately, they want to help you keep your furry family member moving, pain free and happy.
Jesus, Paul and Christopher conferring on patient prosthesis
Prime Route 60 location
All of Us Research
Alzheimer Parkinson
Association
Bay Street Pharmacy
CCIRH Neurosciences Team
CCIndian River Hospital
Coastal Concierge
Encompass Health Hospital
Farah Fourcand MD
Friends After Diagnosis
Jane Seymour
Juan Uriube Villa MD
Kenny Borchers
Perkins Medical Supply
Ryan Dahlgren MD
Scully Welsh Cancer Center
Senior Collaborative
Senior Resource Association
Sjogrens Disease
Sunshine Physical Therapy
Theresa Tolle RPh
Treasure Coast
Community Health
TC Prosthetics Orthodics
True Colors Salon Spa
VeroBeach.com
VNA
Walk to Remember
Womens Refuge
Senior Resource Association to Expands Transit Service Hours
for GoLine, Community Coach
Every segment of society, from individuals and families to communities and businesses, benefits from public transportation. It is a lifeline for connecting people to places and possibilities. In a continuing commitment to meet the needs of the community, Senior Resource Association (SRA) expanded the hours of its zero-fare public transportation service, GoLine, and its Community Coach door-to-door service.
The extended GoLine and Community Coach hours are Monday –Friday from 6 a.m. – 9 p.m. Saturday service now includes GoLine’s Route 13, which travels from the Indian River Mall to the Vero Beach Outlets from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
In preparation for last year’s Transit Development Plan, 870 passengers were surveyed regarding GoLine. “At the top of the list for expanding service was running the buses later on weekday evenings... These additional service hours will benefit all GoLine riders, while making GoLine a more viable transportation option for those who commute to jobs in the service sector, since many service sector work shifts end later than 7 p.m.,” says Brian Freeman, Indian River County Metropolitan Planning Organization Staff Director.
GoLine provides bus service on 14 fixed routes throughout Indian River County. Riders take the GoLine to work or school, medical
appointments, grocery stores, the beach and dozens of other locations.
All GoLine buses are ADA-accessible and equipped with audio-visual cameras and convenient bicycle racks.
Community Coach provides doorto-door transportation to medical appointments, shopping, entertainment venues, and more, for eligible riders with no other means of transportation. Community Coach operates as a shared-ride service that makes stops along the way and accommodates seniors who use mobility aids.
“We recognize that expanded service is something that will greatly benefit our community,” says Karen Deigl, SRA President and CEO. “Many people rely on public transportation to access key resources, and we hope these changes positively impact our riders and the community as a whole.”
GoLine and Community Coach’s service expansion was made possible through the Indian River Board of County Commissioners and a Florida Department of Transportation grant. SRA is grateful for their support, which is vital in helping the organization fulfill its mission of providing zero-fare transit to Indian River County and offering a service that increases access and expands mobility because lack of transportation should never be a barrier to accessing community resources.
GoLine schedules and route maps are available on the website: www. GoLineIRT.com. Bus information is accessible via TransLoc, a free mobile app that provides real-time locations. GoLine route information is also available through navigation apps Apple Maps and Google Maps.
For more information about transportation options in Indian River County, please call 772.569.0903.
772.569.0760
VERO BEACH: 694 14th Street
SEBASTIAN: 815 Davis Street
The Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) of the Treasure Coast & the Women’s Refuge of Vero Beach Unite a Successful 2024 Health & Wellness Forum
The Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) of the Treasure Coast partnered with the Women’s Refuge of Vero Beach to host the 2024 Health & Wellness Forum, a benefit for the two nonprofits. The event, which featured a lovely luncheon, was held at Oak Harbor Club in Vero Beach to a packed house. It featured prominent community leaders as guest speakers and panelists who spoke on health-related topics affecting our community, including keynote speaker, David Peter, MD, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital, who provided a snapshot of today’s healthcare delivery in Indian River County with a look toward the future.
Proceeds from the event, which raised $26,256, were shared between the VNA and Women’s Refugee to enable both organizations to continue to serve the needs of our community, upholding their individual mission statements. The VNA’s mission is to provides compassionate, innovative care of the highest quality, setting the standard for patients and caregivers
Diane Ludwig, Executive Director of Women’s Refuge of Vero Beach with Bonnie Martinelli, Executive Director of CareNet Pregnancy Center.
Dr. Wayne Creelman with Women’s Refuge Founder, Donna Lee Robart.
Lundy Fields, CEO of Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) welcoming guests to the VNA and Women’s Refuge 2024 Health & Wellness Forum and Luncheon.
to right: Bill Ludwig, Dr. David Peter, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital and Diane Ludwig, Executive Director of Women’s Refuge of Vero Beach.
Left
needing home health, hospice, private care as well as community health services for the underinsured and uninsured, ensuring healthcare equality for all. The Women’s Refuge’s mission is threefold: to provide a live-in Christian program where hurting women can find sanctuary in a healing environment; to offer biblical counseling and support for the healing and wholeness of emotionally, mentally and spiritually wounded women, men, and families in our community; and to make available training for people to disciple others.
In addition to Dr. Peter’s lecture, the other guest speakers who donated their time and expertise to the event were Vicki Soulé, CEO, Treasure Coast Community Health, who provided interesting insight about health trends in Indian River County, and Philip Cromer, PhD licensed psychologist and CEO, Mental Health Association, who spoke about the state of mental health in Indian River County and efforts being made to address post-pandemic mental health challenges. A question-and-answer session concluded the event with the guest speakers and panelists that included Marie Andress, CEO, Whole Family Health Center; Wayne Creelman, MD, psychiatrist, University of Florida; Karen Deigl, CEO, Senior Resource Association; and Richard Wyderksi, MD, Owner of Wyderski Health.
To learn more about the VNA, visit vnatc.com or call 772-567-5551 and to learn more about the Women’s Refuge, visit womensrefugevb.org or call 772-770-4424.
Left to right: William Stengel, VNA Board Chair; Carol Kanarek, VNA & Hospice Foundation Board Chair; Keynote Speaker, Dr. David Peter, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital; and Ann Marie McCrystal, Founder of VNA.
Health & Wellness Forum panelists and keynote speaker, left to right: Dr. Philip Cromer, CEO of Mental Health Association in Indian River County; Karen Deigl, President and CEO of Senior Resource Association; Marie Andress, CEO of Whole Family Health Center; Dr. Rich Wyderki of Wyderski Health; Vicki Soulé, CEO of Treasure Coast Community Health; Dr. Wayne Creelman, Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Florida and Vero Beach community ambassador for mental health and substance abuse issues; and, Dr. David Peter, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital.
What Are Compounding Pharmacies?
by Theresa Tolle, R.PH, Owner Bay Street Pharmacy
Compounding pharmacies have existed for centuries and compounding is the way pharmacy began, preparing medicinal products from raw chemicals. As the profession of pharmacy has evolved, especially over the last century, most pharmacies dispense products that are approved by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) and manufactured, however, there are many reasons that patients might need a compounded medication. Some examples include providing a different dosage than something commercially available, providing a product or combination of chemicals that does not exist as a commercial product, changing the dosage form to something the patient can use (i.e. changing from an oral tablet to a topical cream or suppository) and providing a flavor that is palatable and many others.
Compounding pharmacies provide these custom-made medications based on a prescription for an individual patient’s needs. This “triad” of the prescriberpharmacist-patient relationship is KEY to compounding. Prescribers will often recommend compounds for some of the above reasons, but they also might recommend them based on cost (compounds can sometimes be less expensive than similar commercial products), availability (pharmacies are allowed under some FDA guidelines to compound when a commercial product is not available) and experience prescribing a custom product and seeing positive patient outcomes. Veterinarians also routinely order compounded medications when pets need dosing changes, a different dosage form or a more pet-friendly flavor. Recently, you may have heard about compounding pharmacies because the newer prescription injectable medications used for diabetes and also for weight loss such as Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy and Zepbound have been difficult to obtain due to demand. The FDA does allow pharmacies to compound products that are considered in short supply so many are now compounding medications that contain active ingredients such as semaglutide or tirzepatide. Although this is allowed under FDA guidelines, patients should carefully scrutinize the products they are seeking as alternatives. A few guidelines to follow are that any injectable products should be produced by a sterile compounding pharmacy who is certified under USP-797. If the product is not injectable and is a dosage form such as a sublingual lozenge, it could be
a slightly different chemical, so ask your prescriber about the type of outcomes patients have experienced compared with injectable products. Finally, you should check to see if the pharmacy has a professional affiliation such as a membership with The International Academy of Compounding Pharmacy (IACP), the American College of Apothecaries (ACA), or are accredited through the Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board (PCAB). You can also find compounding pharmacies near you by visiting www.a4pc.org/find-acompounder or www.ahc.org/find-a-provider.
Compounded medications still hold a prominent place within the profession of pharmacy. In fact, in some ways, compounding has come full circle with many patients seeking compounded products as an alternative means to get both therapeutic and financial benefit. The FDA provides oversight of compounding pharmacies, the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) sets industry standards and Boards of Pharmacy in each state provide regulation and enforcement of these pharmacies. One final note is because of the custom nature of compounded products they may take several days to produce and prescription insurance may not cover them. Be sure to ask your prescriber or pharmacist any questions you may have regarding compounded medications once you have an order.
The 19th Annual Day of Hope Dementia Caregiver Conference and
the 8th Annual Parkinson’s Conference
Cunningham, Alzheimer & Parkinson Association Executive Director; Jolene Brackey, Day of Hope speaker; and sponsor Eileen O’Donnell of Coastal Concierge Services.
In February, the Alzheimer & Parkinson Association of Indian River County hosted both the 19th Annual Day of Hope Dementia Caregiver Conference and the 8th Annual Parkinson’s Conference, welcoming several hundred attendees to the combined events. These annual conferences are learning opportunities for professional and family caregivers, & people with movement disorders. Nearly 25 local businesses and organizations were also on-hand, providing helpful information about their services. Experts from around the country in the fields of memory and movement, and overall wellness, were featured on each of the two days of the conferences.
This year’s Day of Hope Conference featured author Jolene Brackey. Featured speakers at the Parkinson’s Conference were: Justin Boyd, PhD; Melissa Hamilton, M.A., CCC-SLP; and Jital Patel, OTR/L, CFPS. Major sponsors included: Program Sponsor- Coastal Concierge Services; Speaker SponsorsCleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital, Conforti & Henning, and Trilogy Home Health; Lunch Sponsors- The Brennity and Renaissance Senior Living.
Melissa Hamilton, M.A., CCC-SLP; Peggy Cunningham; Courtney Sanchez, AP Program Director; and Jital Patel, OTR/L, CFPS.
Peggy
Jolene Brackey (right) autographed her book Creating Moments of Joy for attendees.
Elevating Neurosurgical Care
continued from page 9
Dr. Fourcand and her colleague Ryan Dahlgren, MD, also use this approach to treat other cerebrovascular conditions when the risk of open surgery is too high or if the defect is located in an unreachable part of the brain. Dr. Dahlgren was fellowship-trained in endovascular surgery at Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio, and joined Indian River Hospital in 2022 as Medical Director of Neuro Endovascular Surgery.
“I treat vascular pathologies of the brain and spine including brain aneurysms, carotid artery stenosis, subdural hematomas, and arterial venous malformations,” explains Dr. Dahlgren. “Advances in technology and endovascular surgical treatments allow patients, who once might have been considered inoperable, to now have stellar outcomes. It’s really changed the expectation of care.”
State-of-the-art imaging
One of the tools the team relies on for these sophisticated treatments and surgeries is a neurointerventional biplane imaging system. This state-of-theart technology captures 3D views of blood vessels in the brain and spine to diagnosis and treat an array of neurological disorders.
“With this level of visual detail, we can close off an aneurysm in a bulging vessel wall by inserting tiny coils or using a mesh or wire tube to block the
The neurosciences team uses state-of-the-art technology to diagnose and treat an array of neurological disorders.
Ryan Dahlgren, MD
defect,” adds Dr. Fourcand. “We can also use a liquid bioadhesive to seal a damaged vessel and use devices to divert blood flow.”
Advanced surgical care
For cases of cerebrovascular, degenerative and benign or malignant conditions of the brain and spine that cannot be treated endovascularly, Indian River Hospital has a team of neurosurgeons with years of training and experience in the most complex brain and spine surgeries.
Juan Uribe Villa, MD, joined Indian River Hospital in 2020 and was also fellowship-trained at Cleveland Clinic. He specializes in functional and stereotactic neurosurgery, caring for patients with cerebrovascular conditions, brain tumors, epilepsy, and movement disorders.
Age-related brain tumors
Approximately 90,000 people are diagnosed with a primary brain tumor every year in the United States. As many as 170,000 a year are diagnosed with secondary or metastatic tumors that arise in another organ and spread to the brain. The chances of being diagnosed with a brain tumor increases after age 45, with most people diagnosed when they’re over 65.
Dr. Uribe uses conventional and less invasive surgical techniques to access and remove or destroy tumors in the brain.
Radiosurgery is another treatment approach that uses very high-energy radiation to kill a tumor without opening the skull, he adds.
“While each of our neurosurgeons has a specific area of expertise, all our specialists take a patient-centered approach to care,” emphasizes Dr. Adada. “Treatment decisions revolve around patient preferences and needs, making patient-physician communication essential.”
To learn more about neuroscience services at Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital, visit ClevelandClincFlorida.org/Neuro or call 877.463.2010 to schedule an appointment.
Juan Uribe Villa, MD
Senior Expo 2024! Fun and Learning
The Expo was a great success thanks to our sponsors, vendors, and volunteers.
Once again, we brought much-needed screenings, vaccinations, and information to our community!
80+ Vendors • Speaker Presentations on 2 Stages Free Medical Screenings/Demonstrations • Food Trucks & Ocean FM Live Save the Date Senior Expo 2025 – March 20, 2025
March 20, 2025
What Is the All of Us Research Program?
The All of Us Research Program is a large research program. The goal is to help researchers understand more about why people get sick or stay healthy. People who join will give us information about their health, habits, and what it’s like where they live. By looking for patterns, researchers may learn more about what affects people’s health.
You will be contributing to research that may improve health for everyone. Find out more at JoinAllofUs.org or by downloading the All of Us app.
Dementia-Friendly Community
Your brain must give you an answer – that’s its function (right or wrong, it will give you an answer.) It does this by taking in data through your five senses, along with your emotions. The cognitive areas of the brain, such as reasoning, judgement, initiative, memory, problem solving, orientation to time, place, and person, will interpret and filter this data to give you an answer. Part of that filtering involves putting the emotions into perspective…we get better at that as we mature…. usually. However, as the cognitive areas of the brain decline, as they do with dementia, so does that filtering ability. The emotions become the strongest informant to the brain. The goal then, when interacting with a person with dementia, is to keep their emotions as positive as possible. This is quality of life – for them and for the caregiver.
The immersive dementia experience allows the participant to feel how the limitations of this condition can affect quality of life. This simple, non-invasive, experience is an eye-opener towards understanding how the emotions evolve when the “data can’t be retained. From that point, learning the simple strategy to keep the emotions positive suddenly makes sense!
Build your empathy and help this community become dementia friendly! Call the Alzheimer & Parkinson Association of IRC, at (772) 563-0505, to sign up for the dementia experience!
Independently 2nd generation owned and serving the greater Sebastian area since 1984
Services we offer:
• Complete prescription services including compounding
• Compliance (bubble) packaging of monthly medications
• Delivery available from Grant to Fellsmere to Vero Beach
• Short wait times and always 2 pharmacists on duty to answer your questions
• Affordable on-site cholesterol and A1C testing with results in 5 minutes
• FREE monthly diabetes class on the 3rd Thursday at 8AM - call for details
• Complete vaccine services including shingles, pneumonia, flu, and others
• Full line of medical equipment - bathroom, walkers, lift chairs, hospital beds
• Respiratory services - CPAP, oxygen, nebulizers and supplies
• Young Living Essential Oils and Bariatric Advantage vitamins
Theresa Tolle, R.PH OWNER Honoring most insurance. We bill Medicare and private insurance. 7746 Bay Street • Sebastian • (772) 589-2043 • baystreetpharmacy.com North of SRMC in Bay Street Center on US 1 in Roseland
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