JOY Magazine--Fall 2026 by JOY Magazine

2026 TA I

LS INSI

BRINGING ALABAMA TO LIFE

THE BENEFITS OF WALKING

T E A M

GOOD GOURD RECIPES FOR FALL

Saving Lives! OF

ISSUE 04 / 2026

JOY

JOIN THE CELEBRATION!

Breast Health Excellence backed by Early detection matters. So does expert care before, during, and after your diagnosis.

imaging to surgical breast oncology and ongoing treatment, our patients

While a physician referral is required for mammograms, Baptist Health offers multiple convenient imaging locations throughout the River Region, so once you’re ready, care is close by. And should you need additional services following your mammogram, we’ll be with you every step of the way.

benefit from a full continuum of expertise, backed by Central Alabama’s

+ MONTGOMERY BREAST CENTER

most trusted healthcare system. That care extends through our partnerships

+ BAPTIST BREAST HEALTH CENTER

with the UAB Medicine Breast Health Clinic, offering specialized breast care

+ PRATTVILLE IMAGING CENTER

by fellowship-trained providers right here at home, and the Montgomery

+ UAB MEDICINE BREAST HEALTH CLINIC

Cancer Center, where patients receive advanced, coordinated cancer

+ MONTGOMERY CANCER CENTER

treatment in a supportive, patient-focused environment.

+ DRIVING HOPE MOBILE HEALTH CLINIC

At Baptist Health, we deliver the highest standard of care at every stage of your breast health journey. From initial mammograms and advanced

FO R M O R E I N FO R M AT I O N , P L E A S E C A L L 3 3 4 . 74 7. H O P E O R V I S I T B A P T I S T F I R S T. O R G .

Get to know the car tag

that’s saving lives in Alabama!

joytolife.org

This is the Joy to Life Foundation car tag. Founded in 2001, Joy to Life has been ﬁghting to save lives for over 25 years!

The purchase of this Joy to Life car tag provides breast health services for women & men in Alabama that are in desperate need.

SRVIVR The Joy to Life car tag pays for mammograms. But that’s not all. It also pays for ultrasounds, biopsies, Dr visits & more in all 67 counties in Alabama.

The Joy to Life car tag includes free personalization so you can share your story.

The Joy to Life car tag design includes words of inspiration, encouragement and support.

Choose the Joy to Life PINK tag when you renew!

{ over 100,000 mammograms and counting - thanks to you }

Together We Can Eliminate Cervical Cancer What YOU can do to help WIPE OUT cervical cancer:

HPVVaccination (Ages 9-26)

Regular Screening (Starting at 21)

Follow-Up Treatment

Spread the word! Like, follow, and subscribe to OPERATION WIPE OUT’S social media channels for the latest news: @Operation WIPE OUT

@operationwipeoutal

@OpWipeOutAL

ALABAMA

Learn more at operationwipeout.org

JOY

Hi, everyone.

As part of our year-long celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Joy to Life Foundation, we’ve included the new Joy to Life Breast Health Guide in this issue. We hope this informative guide will educate women and men everywhere about the importance of breast health. Early detection saves lives, and knowledge is one of our most powerful tools in the fight against breast cancer. This guide holds very special meaning for my husband, Dickie, and me because it is dedicated to the memory of our beloved sister-in-law, Diane, who passed away suddenly earlier this year. Diane was a breast-cancer survivor herself and a devoted supporter of the Joy to Life Foundation. She believed deeply in our mission and was always there to encourage and support the work we do to help others. We are honored to memorialize Diane’s strength, compassion and commitment to helping others with this guide. Her spirit will forever remain a part of the Joy to Life family. This issue also features two very special breast cancer stories highlighting the incredible strength and resilience of three remarkable women. Michelle Leadingham is celebrating 20 years cancer-free. She is also celebrating her mother’s successful breast cancer journey. Diagnosed at age 76, Michelle’s mother is now cancer-free as well—a wonderful testament to the importance of hope, treatment and early detection.

Photography by Big Dreamz Creative

BRINGING ALABAMA TO LIFE

An incredible journey begins this month when Tom Fritz carries on with the “Where’s Jo Jo?” pink bus tour—a trip he and his wife Jodie (nicknamed Jo Jo) planned to take together after her breast cancer diagnosis so they could have one last adventure while also spreading breast cancer awareness. But Jodie passed away in late August, before the couple could set out on the tour. Read their story— one of love, courage and determination —on page 22. Please remember that our major fundraiser will take place on October 24. This year’s Walk of Life promises to be tremendous fun and a tremendous success, and we hope you will join us at 17 Springs in Millbrook as we come together to celebrate, support one another, and advance the fight against breast cancer.

PUBLISHER JTL Publishing EDITOR Joy Blondheim MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer Stewart Kornegay ART DIRECTOR Erika Rowe Tracy DIGITAL MEDIA PRODUCERS Big Dreamz Creative CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sidney Fry, MS, RD Kym Klass Jennifer Stewart Kornegay COPY EDITOR Jenny Stubbs CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Big Dreamz Creative COVER CREATIVE & PHOTOGRAPHY Nancy Fields/Big Dreamz Creative COVER DESIGN Erika Rowe Tracy

Joy Blondheim Editor & Co-Founder, Joy to Life Foundation

Joy is published four times per year by JTL Publishing. © 2026 All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without permission from the publisher. Joy reserves the right to determine the suitability of all materials submitted for publication and to edit all submitted materials for clarity and space. Joy is not responsible for damage, loss or any other injury to unsolicited manuscripts and/or unsolicited artwork. This includes, but is not limited to, drawings, photography, transparencies or any other unsolicited material. Joy does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial. The publishers do not assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Joy is a news magazine with information on health, leisure activities and a healthy lifestyle. Readers are advised to consult their physicians before participating in any sport or fitness activity or starting any exercise, dietary or nutritional program published in Joy.

JOYTOLIFE.ORG

JOIN IN ON OCT. 24 FOR THE WALK OF LIFE 2026!

FEATURES

CONTENT

Don’t miss the special story of Jo Jo’s Journey. PAGE 22

08 THE DISH

32 FIT FOR KIDS

16 EVERYDAY JOY

38 ON THE MOVE

46 IN BALANCE

42 GREAT GOODS

50 SMILE LINES

Kick Sugar

Good Gourd

Haunted History

Live Here. Give Here. Breast Care in Alabama

20 REAL LIFE

Products, Places & Things We Love

An interview with Michelle Leadingham

BRINGING ALABAMA TO LIFE

Better Together Leaving You With a Little Joy

the dish

Butternut, acorn and spaghetti squash share some big health benefits.

GOOD GOURD Fall in love with the flavors, versatility and wholesome nutrition of winter squashes.

Pumpkins get most of the attention this time of year, but winter squashes deserve just as much love. Especially in the kitchen. Butternut, acorn and spaghetti squash share some big health benefits, but each has their own personality, too, making them some of the season’s most versatile vegetables. Roast them, stuff them, or transform them into crisp, golden cakes—they’re equally at home on a weeknight table or at a holiday feast. Beyond their versatility, winter squashes are packed with fiber, beta-carotene and other antioxidants that make them as nourishing as they are comforting. And the best part? Roasting does most of the work, caramelizing their natural sugars and bringing out their rich, sweet flavor. Here are three delicious reasons to fill your cart with winter squash this season. BY SIDNEY FRY, MS, RD PHOTOGRAPHY BY BIG DREAMZ CREATIVE

SERVES 6-8

INGREDIENTS

Spinach & Feta Spaghetti Squash Fritters with Whipped Feta Yogurt Here, we skip the classic pasta preparation spaghetti squash is known for and turn the veggie into crispy, golden fritters instead. When panfried, its naturally long strands result in cakes that are crisp around the edges, tender in the center, and packed with spinach, garlic and feta. Finished with a fluffy, tangy whipped feta sauce, they’re proof that simple doesn’t equal ordinary.

PRO TIP: Don’t skip the squeezing step. The drier the strands, the crispier your fritters will be. And a clean kitchen towel works much better than paper towels for removing excess moisture.

1 spaghetti squash, halved lengthwise, seeded 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 1 shallot, minced 1 garlic clove, minced 2 cups packed fresh spinach, coarsely chopped 1 large egg 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese 1 cup panko breadcrumbs 2 tablespoons avocado oil

DIRECTIONS TO PREPARE FRITTERS: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Brush cut sides of squash lightly with olive oil. Place cut side down on prepared pan and roast 45 minutes or until tender. Let cool. Using a fork, scrape squash into long strands. Transfer to a clean kitchen towel and squeeze firmly to remove as much moisture as possible. You should have about 3 cups squash. Meanwhile, heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add oil to skillet, swirl to coat. Cook shallot until tender, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and spinach; cook until spinach is wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat. In a large bowl, combine squash and spinach mixture, toss to coat with a fork. Add egg, flour, salt,

WHIPPED FETA YOGURT

1/2 cup whole-milk Greek yogurt 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon lemon zest Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

pepper, and ½ cup feta until evenly combined. Place panko in a shallow bowl. Using a measuring cup, scoop ⅓ cup squash mixture and gently shape into a ½-inch-thick patty. Coat both sides in panko, pressing lightly to adhere. Repeat with remaining mixture. Add 2 tablespoons avocado oil to pan; swirl to coat. Cook fritters in batches, for 3 to 4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crisp and internal temperature reaches 160°F. Transfer fritters to a wire rack. TO PREPARE SAUCE: Combine yogurt, remaining ¼ cup feta, lemon juice, lemon zest, ¼ teaspoon salt until mostly smooth. Season with pepper. Using a hand mixer on medium-high speed, beat until light, creamy, and mostly smooth, 2 to 3 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

SERVES 6

INGREDIENTS

Wild Rice & Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash Roasting acorn squash brings out its natural sugars, creating the perfect vessel for a hearty filling of savory Italian chicken sausage, wild rice, tart-sweet dried cherries and toasted walnuts. Finished with a light zippy vinaigrette, every bite strikes the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and bright.

3 (1/2-pound) acorn squash, halved lengthwise, seeded 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 (6-ounce) box seasoned long grain wild rice mix 1 pound mild italian chicken sausage 1 cup chopped onion 1/2 cup dried cherries 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, chopped

ORANGE-DIJON VINAIGRETTE 1/4 cup olive oil 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar 2 teaspoons honey 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

DIRECTIONS TO PREPARE SQUASH: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Place squash halves, cut side down, on prepared pan. Roast 35 to 45 minutes, or until fork tender. Carefully turn squash cut side up and let cool slightly. Sprinkle squash halves with ¼ teaspoon salt and pepper. Meanwhile, prepare rice according to package directions. Place 2 cups prepared rice into a large mixing bowl, reserving remaining rice for another use. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook sausage, breaking it into crumbles, until browned and almost cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Add onion and cook until softened and

sausage is fully cooked, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat. TO PREPARE VINAIGRETTE: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, vinegar, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until combined. Brush each roasted squash half with a teaspoon of the vinaigrette. Add sausage mixture, dried cherries, walnuts, and half of the remaining vinaigrette to rice. Toss to coat. Divide rice mixture evenly among squash halves, mounding slightly. Return to oven and bake until heated through, about 10 to 12 minutes. Drizzle evenly with the remaining vinaigrette before serving.

Butternut Squash & Pancetta Gratin with Fried Sage Every great gratin is about contrast: creamy and crisp, savory and sweet. Naturally rich in beta-carotene, butternut squash becomes even better as it bakes beneath a velvety sauce of evaporated milk and a touch of heavy cream. Savory pancetta, nutty Gruyère, and fragrant fresh herbs create layers of flavor, while golden breadcrumbs and fried sage provide the perfect finishing crunch.

SERVES 8

INGREDIENTS

1 medium butternut squash (about 2 1/2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and thinly sliced (1/8 inch thick) 1 (4-ounce) package chopped pancetta 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 shallot, finely chopped 1 clove garlic, minced 3-5 whole leaves plus 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped 2 teaspoons fresh thyme 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk 1/3 cup low-sodium chicken broth 1/3 cup heavy cream 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 4 ounces aged Gruyère cheese, shredded 2 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated 1/2 cup fresh breadcrumbs 1 tablespoon canola or vegetable oil

DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a 2-quart square baking dish.

MEET SIDNEY:

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

Sidney Fry is a two-time James-Beard-Award-winning food and nutrition writer who loves creating simple, healthy recipes and thoughtful, actionable content for the hungry consumer. A healthy living proactivist, Sidney is also a registered dietitian nutritionist, recipe developer and mama of three based in Birmingham, Alabama.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook pancetta until crisp, 6 to 8 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer pancetta to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving drippings in skillet. Add olive oil to skillet. Add shallot and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic, chopped sage, and thyme; cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in evaporated milk, chicken broth, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat. Stir in Gruyère and half of the Parmesan until melted and smooth. Arrange one-third of the butternut squash slices in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping.

Sprinkle with one-third of the pancetta. Spoon onethird of the cheese sauce over top. Repeat layers twice, finishing with the remaining sauce. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the squash is nearly tender when pierced with a knife. Meanwhile, combine breadcrumbs and remaining Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over gratin. Return to oven, uncovered, and bake until bubbling and golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes. While gratin finishes baking, heat canola oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Fry sage leaves until crisp, 10 to 15 seconds. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and season with salt. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fried sage leaves.

everyday

Joy

NEWS & HAPPENINGS WITH THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

When you look up at the sky during this year’s Walk of Life, be ready for something breathtaking.

FOR THE

For the Walk of Life, FlyLight is creating a drone light show designed specifically for the event. More than 400 drones will buzz overhead, bringing the event to life in a way that attendees have never experienced before.

When the sun goes down at this year’s Joy to Life Walk of Life, the celebration is just getting started. Thanks to FlyLight Drone Shows, the night sky will become part of the event in a spectacular way. FlyLight specializes in turning the sky into a canvas, using cutting-edge drone technology and creative storytelling to create unforgettable experiences. Their shows combine hundreds of synchronized drones, brilliantly shining visuals and carefully choreographed movement to transform an ordinary evening into something truly extraordinary. Behind every breathtaking image is a team of experts who turn ideas into intricately coordinated motion, programming each drone to move in perfect unison. FlyLight’s shows are fully customizable, allowing every event to tell its own story.

So, when you look up at the sky during this year’s Walk of Life, be ready for something breathtaking. FlyLight is bringing the brilliance of the stars to the Walk—pushing this annual beloved celebration to new heights.

JOYTOLIFE.ORG

20 HIGHLIG26 HTS: R E D, W H AND PIN ITE, BLUE, K SHIRT S FAMILY F UN Z O N E SPECIA L PINK Z ONE NE W DR ONE S H OW !

LIVE HERE. GIVE HERE.

THANK YOU

24 OCT

2026

PRESENTING SPONSOR

ASE CREDIT UNION

ION OUNDAT F E F I L , 6 JOY TO ALL NEW THE 202 S I E F I L ME WALK OF ATION, A NEW TI EW LOC N A H GHT NEW T I I R W B , G I EB AND SOM ISES, TOO. SURPR

PLATINUM SPONSORS

DIAMOND SPONSOR THE S. ADAM SCHLOSS FOUNDATION

2026 BRINGS THE RIVER REGION THE BEST & BRIGHTEST WALK OF LIFE YET The 2026 Joy to Life Walk of Life for Breast Cancer promises an unforgettable evening with a celebration that will light up the night. On October 24 at 17 Springs in Millbrook, the Foundation’s annual Walk will feature a 5K, food trucks, entertainment and for the grand finale, an amazing drone-show experience that is sure to have everyone looking to the sky. The Red, White, Blue & Pink Celebration will bring the community together to fight cancer, give hope and celebrate life! It’s a night for all ages to enjoy family activities, games, sweets, giveaways, and a football field full of smiles & lots of pink. You’ll have to check out the SELFIE Zone too! Plus, our Survivor VIPs will enjoy a relaxing spot right in the middle of all the fun with their own special treats.

Mark your calendar, grab your tickets and get ready to help Joy to Life light up the night!

TICKETS AT JOYTOLIFEWALKOFLIFE.ORG

LIVE HERE. GIVE HERE.

BRINGING ALABAMA TO LIFE

GOLD SPONSOR The Joy to Life Foundation couldn’t put on The Walk of Life—our signature festive fundraiser—each year without the generosity of our fabulous sponsors. We appreciate the strong support of this year’s sponsors.

SILVER SPONSORS

BRONZE SPONSORS

ALFA

Shoppes at EastChase

Guardian Credit Union

Neptune Technology

Dixie Electric, Plumbing & Air

Alabama Power

JK Lowder Family Foundation

Arthur Leadingham

CELEBRATE OUR 25TH ANNIVERSARY CHECK OUT EVENTS & MERCHANDISE THAT RAISE PROCEEDS FOR JTL!

PINK CAN ART WALK! This October, downtown Wetumpka will also be home to the PINK CAN ART WALK! Local artists are transforming Joy to Life’s Pink Trash Cans into unique works of art that showcase their creativity and craftsmanship. The artwork will pop up throughout downtown for visitors to enjoy during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

ORDER HERE

CELEBRATE WITH JOY TO LIFE

Cast your vote with a donation to Joy to Life using the QR code displayed with the artwork.

LET’S GO, BISCUITS!

e te tw

ra eb

Carry a pink balloon at Wetumpka's PINK WALK to honor, celebrate and remember those touched by breast cancer.

PINK Y PARTEAR Y ALL NG! LO

Visit WETUMPKAPINKWALK.ORG to get your official PINK WALK tee and show off your pink pride while you walk.

OC T 17

a of joy t

The Joy to Life Foundation is excited to team up again with the City of Wetumpka for the annual PINK WALK, this year on Saturday, October 17, starting at 10 a.m. Invite your friends and family to meet us at Wetumpka’s Farmers Market for this free event and join us as we walk from the Farmers Market, across the Bibb Graves Bridge and end near Overlook Park downtown where the pink fun continues! Along the way, everyone will carry a pink balloon to honor, celebrate and remember those touched by breast cancer.

-five ye

LET’S PAINT WETUMPKA PINK!

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Joy

NEWS & HAPPENINGS WITH THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

lif

everyday

Show off your USA pride and support JTL with our red, white, blue and PINK 25th anniversary t-shirts. Don’t miss the chance to score one of these special tees celebrating Joy to Life and the life-saving work the foundation has been doing for a quarter of a century while also honoring our country’s big birthday.

The PINK CAN Walk will join the Joy to Life Walk of Life at 17 Springs on October 24 for the 5K Celebration & Drone Show. So, grab your pink, bring your people, and get ready to walk to make a difference!

JOYTOLIFE.ORG

LIVE HERE. GIVE HERE.

Re ad Ab ou t Jo Jo Fr it z on pa ge 22

Photography by Big Dreamz Creative

The Joy to Life Foundation enjoys a strong partnership with The Montgomery Biscuits, and this summer, we teamed up again for several PINK-tastic events. We Pinked out the Park, and the evening included an amazing jersey giveaway (they looked so good!), and we were joined by Tom and Jo Jo Fritz from Where’s Jo Jo, The Pink Bus. Jo Jo even threw out the first pitch. It was an exciting evening of fun baseball action, plus a great way to remind all the Biscuits fans in attendance about the Walk of Life, coming up in October. We also enjoyed Princess Night! Even Big Mo was sporting PINK! And, of course, JTL founders Joy and Dickie Blondheim took their rightful place among the princesses in attendance.

LIVE HERE. GIVE HERE.

BRINGING ALABAMA TO LIFE

FIRST-HAND ADVICE AND INSIGHT TO HELP CAREGIVERS COPE

Photography by Big Dreamz Creative.

real

A DISCUSSION WITH

MICHELLE LEADINGHAM This year, Michelle Leadingham celebrates 20 years of breast-cancer-free status after accidentally discovering a lump on her 38th birthday. Today, the survivor cherishes and appreciates every moment. And despite the passage of two decades, she remembers her journey well and is happy to share the wisdom it gave her with others. Tell us about your cancer diagnosis and treatment. I found a lump in my right breast on January 2, 2006. I was not doing a self-exam—it was an accidental blessing. On January 6, I had my first mammogram, followed by a core needle biopsy the same day. On January 11, I was diagnosed with Stage IIB HER2-positive breast cancer. It was estrogen-driven and aggressive. I tested negative for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations. My treatment began on February 14 with eight rounds of chemotherapy. Treatment continued with an oophorectomy (ovary removal), a mastectomy of my right breast and radiation. When I was ready for reconstruction, I elected to have my left breast removed as well. I was not a candidate for implants, so my reconstruction was done using a TRAM flap procedure (tissue from my abdomen). The entire process took nearly two years. What was your first thought when you heard the diagnosis? The truth is, when I found the lump in my breast, my gut told me it was cancer. My paternal grandmother died of breast cancer in her thirties. She also had several immediate family members, both female and male, who died from it as well. I was scared, but ready to fight. One of the hardest things following my diagnosis was waiting for the treatment plan. I just wanted it out of my body.

JOYTOLIFE.ORG

HEAR FROM SURVIVORS, COMPANIONS AND CAREGIVERS IN OUR

Real Life SECTION.

in a significant transitional period in my life. During that time, I deeply appreciated every note, phone call and visit from family and friends. I also cherished the milestone celebrations, such as my “head-shaving” party, which brought encouragement and a sense of community during a difficult journey.

What forms of help and support really stood out? I was shown a great deal of love and grace during that time. My parents were wonderful; however, four people stood out. I was introduced to a wonderful woman who became my breast cancer mentor and a dear friend. She shared her experience and her scars with me. I will love her forever. My uncle, who had lost his son to cancer, stepped up and decided he would be my “chemo buddy.” He even named his SUV “The Chemo Truck.” We enjoyed our time together every two weeks. My aunt, my uncle’s wife, stayed in the hospital when I had my first mastectomy. This was especially difficult for her because her son was a pharmacy student at UAB when he was diagnosed. (My mother was very sick, and my doctor thought she might be contagious.) My husband, who I became friends with during my treatment. He did many thoughtful things for me during that time, including arranging for someone to come to my home to give me manicures and pedicures. We married in 2009.

Tell us about your mother’s cancer journey. My mother was diagnosed with Stage I breast cancer in May 2023 at the age of 76. I am happy

Self-Care is Not Selfish Michelle Leadingham offers this key tip for caregivers: “Remember to take care of yourself, too. You can’t pour from an empty cup,” she says. “Caring for your own physical and emotional well-being will help you be at your best as you navigate this journey together.” to report that surgery was the only treatment she needed. She chose to have a bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction. Although she has experienced a few issues with her implants, she is cancer-free.

What did it mean for you to experience cancer after watching her go through it? My mother handled her own diagnosis much better than she handled mine. Like all parents, she never wanted to watch her child go through a serious illness. In a way, I was grateful that I had already been through what she was facing. My experience allowed me to support and encourage her in the same way so many others had supported and encouraged me.

What does it mean to have hit such a survivor milestone? As a survivor, every year is worth celebrating, but reaching 20 years is especially meaningful to me. Some days, it feels as though cancer never happened—until I catch my reflection in the mirror after a shower or head to a lymphedema therapy appointment. Those moments remind me that even after you are declared “cancer-free,” the journey doesn’t simply end. There are lasting physical and emotional reminders that many survivors continue to navigate. Even so, I count myself incredibly blessed to be on the other side. Twenty years later, I am grateful for every day, every milestone, and every reminder of God’s faithfulness through it all.

“ T W E N T Y Y E A R S L A T E R , I A M G R A T E F U L F O R E V E R Y D A Y , E V E R Y M I L E S T O N E .” - m i c h e l l e 21

BRINGING ALABAMA TO LIFE

A JOURNE Y TOGETHER

Through the treatment process (and after), what did you want from your friends and family? When I was diagnosed, I was

jojo s

y e n r u o j

Follow along as one central Alabama man finds comfort, courage and even some smiles after a difficult loss, embarking on a journey to honor his wife while informing and inspiring others.

BY JENNIFER S. KORNEGAY PHOTOGRAPHY BY BIG DREAMZ CREATIVE

In late August 2026, Jodie Fritz passed away after her battle with breast cancer. This fall, her husband Tom will take a trip the two had planned together—a pink bus tour designed to give the couple some road-trip together time while also spreading breast-cancer awareness. In her final days, Jodie made it clear that while she’d reached the end of her journey, Tom still had miles to go. This is their story as shared with JOY magazine in June 2026. In May 2025, Jodie received devastating news, a diagnosis of stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. While caring for her father, who was in hospice due to his stomach cancer, she felt a small bump near her armpit. She made a doctor’s appointment as soon as she could find time since she was busy helping her dad. In the meantime, she began to feel pain at the site of the bump. When she had a biopsy, it revealed the spot was cancer, and her husband Tom felt shock and then, anger. “I was mad,” Tom said. “We thought it could be cancer, but stage 4? We were thinking stage 1, and she’ll do the treatments and beat it.”

“I don’t think it really sunk in at first for me,” Jodie said. “I was kinda numb.” But neither wasted precious days wallowing in their feelings. When Jodie started chemotherapy, Tom saw a small but significant silver lining. “You go to the Cancer Center, and you see others in the same situation. You see the same staff over and over, and they start to know you,” he said. “They’re smiling when you arrive, and you get some comfort from the idea that we’re all in this together.”

The bus tour began as an adaptation of Tom and Jodie’s retirement plans. Even though Tom is taking the trip solo, he hopes it still helps others by raising breast cancer awareness. And while Jodie focused on her treatments, Tom focused on a plan he pieced together from the shards of a broken dream. “We’d been talking about when we retired, we’d get an RV and drive down to Key West,” he

said. “We could spend winters there and then drive back north when the summers got hot to visit family all over the South.” As the couple accepted that the original plan wasn’t likely to happen, Tom began looking for a way to transform the time Jodie had left into multiple memorymaking moments. “I knew I wanted to just be with her and give her some part of what we’d always wanted to do, so I was still thinking about the RV idea.” But Jodie had to stop working, and the loss of her income meant an RV—at least one she’d be comfortable in—was no longer in the budget. “I don’t know if I clicked something on facebook, or it was something I searched on Google, but all of a sudden, my social media feed was full of videos of people turning old school buses into RVs.”

After hours spent watching multiple YouTube videos, Tom felt he could tackle a similar conversion, and he began shopping for a bus. “The bus search and then this entire process has been a way to do something for Jodie, but also, it’s been a needed distraction for me,” he said. When Tom first shared the project with Jodie, she was intrigued but a little skeptical. “If you knew my husband, you would know his brain never stops, and he always has different ideas popping up,” she said. “When I heard this one, I was really interested in it but didn’t think we were going to pull it off until I saw the actual bus.” As Tom got started on the project’s nuts and bolts—after finding and buying a bus in Ohio—his thoughts kept returning Continued on page 26

The Where’s Jo Jo tour kicks off on Oct. 1 in Montgomery with the Joy to Life Foundation.

pink

bus breast against

cancer

paint it

PINK

& THEY WILL COME 24

JOYTOLIFE.ORG

Once Tom Fritz set his mind on turning a vintage school bus into a pinkedout RV and then driving it and his wife Jodie to breast cancer events around the South, nothing deterred him. He spent months learning the ins and outs of converting a bus and searching for one to buy. He found one and struck a deal, but mechanical issues came to light at the last minute, so he walked away. He finally found the right fit in Columbus, Ohio, flew there to get it and drove it 12 hours straight back to Millbrook, where he parked it at his church. Then came the transformation. Tom outlined the steps.

daydream to

dreams made new

Gut the inside by removing the seats, the floors down to the metal ribs, the side panels below the windows. Check roof for holes and leaks, seal them, test them, seal the ones you missed, test them. I added solar panel brackets to make sure they get sealed properly.

Paint the bus the next steps: •

•

Add wood for side panels and frame out the inside layout Do electrical and plumbing Add solar panel, batteries, converters, all electrical panels and connect wires

•

Add mini split AC and diesel heaters

•

Complete walls and bed and cabinets

•

Paint the inside

•

Insulate the floors and put down flooring

Install refrigerator and miscellaneous interior Add new tires and check the brakes and fluids Have diesel mechanic give it a tune-up and make sure she is ready for the trip

BRINGING ALABAMA TO LIFE

to the “we’re all in this together” attitude he and Jodie experienced at the Cancer Center. “I kept thinking, ‘This is our new reality, and this could be your reality one day,’” he said, “or maybe it already is, you know? And I felt like I wanted to use this to help others too.”

After Saying Goodbye

The combo of Tom's love for his wife and the desire to connect with and help others on the same journey led to “The Where’s Jo Jo?” pink bus tour (the name references posts Tom and Jodie shared on social media when they’d travel), which kicks off on October 1 with Joy to Life and will make stops at breast cancer walks and other breast-cancer events throughout October. The couple was looking forward to bonding during the

adventure, but knowing the journey was always bigger than them has allowed Tom to keep going after Jodie’s death. "Her story has brought so much love, and encouragement and inspiration to others. And I hope it continues to raise breast cancer awareness and show a positive way to approach all this,” Tom said. Like Tom, Jodie believed from the start that the bus would benefit others even more than them. “I’m excited to meet other people going through this and just having more people to talk to about it,” she said. “I’ve got questions, but I think I might have some answers for others too.” And the one simple but essential piece of advice she hoped everyone who hears her story takes to heart rings just as true today: “Get checked EVERY year.”

Where’s

jojo pink bus tour Per Jodie’s wishes, Tom sets off on the “Where’s Jo Jo” Pink Bus Tour on October 1. He hopes the presence of the bus and Jodie’s story augment these events’ breast-cancer-awareness efforts, and to help with that, he’s sharing the bus’ stops on his social media channels.

Making friends, memories and raising awareness were all part of Jodie and Tom’s journey.

OCT 1: KICK-OFF EVENT

with Joy to Life Foundation, Montgomery OCT 2: Newnan, GA OCT 3 & 4: Georgia Two-Day Walk for Breast Cancer Marietta or Peachtree Corners, GA OCT11: 11: OCT One Step Closer Breast Cancer Walk, Alpharetta, GA OCT17: 17: Florida Breast Cancer Foundation 5k & Tribute Walk OCT Oviedo, FL OCT 24:

Making Strides of Palm Beach County Palm Beach, FL

OCT OCT 31:31: Making Strides of Pensacola 5k Pensacola, FL (Pensacola is Jodie’s hometown.)

Keep an eye on the Where’s Jo Jo Facebook page for more stops and celebration of life events.

FRESH FACTS: THE 411 on food storage

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U N S U R E H OW A N D H OW L O N G T O S A F E LY S T O R E F O O D ? B R U S H U P O N YO U R K I T C H E N K N OW - H OW A N D M A X I M I Z E YO U R F O O D ’ S F R E S H N E S S A N D YO U R G R O C E R Y B U D G E T .

BRINGING ALABAMA TO LIFE

BY J E N N I F E R S . KO R N E GAY

Freezer: frozen is yo u r f r i e n d So many foods—both cooked and raw—can be frozen, allowing you to keep them after they’d otherwise need to be tossed in the trash. But to keep frosty air from damaging your food, always use freezer-safe bags or containers and ensure they are fully closed.

Grow your budget by reducing waste. Should you eat that ground beef you found in the back of the freezer? What can you do with the last few pieces of bread in the bag? Nobody wants to throw away good food, but consuming food after it’s safe to eat or has simply lost its original taste and texture is no picnic either. Take the guesswork out of food storage with these helpful timelines, tips and tricks.

Break it down. Also, before freezing, consider how you’ll use the food in the future so you can divide items into proper portions. For instance, if you usually cook two to three chicken breasts at a time, freeze that many together. Instead of freezing 15 strips of bacon all stuck together, separate them into smaller groups to freeze.

Mark it up. Also, remember to write (on the bag or on a piece

F r i d g e & Pa n t r y :

of masking tape stuck on containers) the date you popped each item into the freezer, along with its name for easy identification later.

L ov e yo u r l e f t ov e r s :

L e v e l U p Yo u r L a b e l K n ow l e d g e

As we enter soup and stew season, consider doubling or even tripling any recipe you’re making and freeze the extra for later. Follow these pro tips on putting up and storing soups and stews.

For items in your refrigerator and pantry, let the dates printed on the packaging be your guide. But not all dates are equal. The designations “best by,” “sell by” and “use by” mean different things.

If you’re using zip-top bags to store your soup, try this trick for easily getting the liquid into the bag. Get out a large, tall cup (like FREEZING SOUP MADE those souvenir cups from EASY sporting events). Open your zip-top bag and place it inside the vessel, rolling the bag’s edges over the side to hold it in place. Then ladle your soup in—being careful not to overfill—pull out the bag and zip it shut.

“Best by” or “best before” is an estimate and refers more to food quality than safety. It’s often found on produce and breads. If the product still looks good (no mold or obvious spoilage) and smells good, it’s usually safe to consume.

“Sell by” and “use by” can be taken a bit more seriously, but again, if it passes a visual and sniff inspection, it’s likely fine, even if it’s past its prime in terms of taste or texture. But, when in doubt throw it out. No bite is worth food poisoning! And for fresh produce without a date label, let your senses guide you here. Mushy, smelly fruits and veggies should go in the trash or your compost pile.

Next, lay your zip-top bags of soup flat on a sheet pan to freeze. When fully frozen, you’ve got nice, stackable packets of soup that take up less freezer space. 30

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H ow l o n g d o e s frozen food last?

Storage Dos & Don’ts:

How long food stays good in the freezer differs for different items. Use this guide for the most commonly frozen foods.

Raw ground meat: 3-4 months Pork chops, boneless chicken breasts and thighs: 9 months

Quick T h aw :

Raw steaks: 9 to 12 months

Placing it in the refrigerator is the safest method for thawing out raw meat, but if you’re in a hurry, put the meat in a zip top plastic bag, and place the bag in a large bowl of cold water. Set a timer for 20-25 minutes and then empty the water and repeat the process until the meat is partially thawed. Set it in the fridge to finish thawing. And make sure your bag is completely sealed. If water gets into the bag, it could alter the meat’s texture.

A whole chicken or turkey: 1 year Cooked rice: 2 months Raw bacon: 3 months Cooked veggies: 8 to 12 months Cheeses: 6 months, but up to 1 year for some hard cheeses Bread, rolls, etc.: 6 months Remember, as long as items are continually kept frozen solid (at 0 degrees or below), they should remain safe to eat indefinitely. But the quality of foods frozen for too long often suffers after these recommended durations. Things like freezer burn can negatively affect taste and texture, leaving the foods unappetizing. And odd colors, funky (sour or “rotten”) smells and slimy or gooey textures (especially on raw meat) indicate something is wrong, so if any of these factors are present, toss the item.

D o : Keep your fridge

around 38 degrees

D o : Store cooked foods

in your fridge on shelves above raw foods.

D o : Ensure tops of food containers are tightly sealed.

KEEP FRUIT FRESH

Do Not:

Keep bananas next to other produce. Ripening bananas will accelerate the ripening of fruits and vegetables nearby, making them spoil faster.

Do Not: N o t F r e e z e r F r i e n d ly These foods don’t hold up well in the freezer.

Raw lettuces, Eggs in shell, Soft cheeses (goat cheese, ricotta, etc.), Sour cream and cream cheese, Raw tomatoes, Mayo-based salads (egg, chicken, etc.) 31

BRINGING ALABAMA TO LIFE

Wash berries and forget to dry them. Moisture left on berries, particularly strawberries, will quickly cause mold.

FIT FOR KIDS

Kick Sugar BY KYM KLASS

ith Halloween around the corner, many kids will soon take to neighborhood streets and fill bags and pumpkinshaped buckets with candy. Trick or treating is a fun fall tradition. And all year long, it’s tempting to give our children sweets as rewards—and as dessert, for treats on road trips and, just because. But, it’s important to remember how much is too much. And the health issues too much can cause. The American Heart Association recommends that babies and toddlers younger than two years old consume no added sugars; they should only eat naturally occurring sugars found in fruit and other healthy foods. After age two, guidelines advise parents of kids and teens to limit their added sugar consumption to less than six teaspoons (25 grams) per day, while limiting sugary beverages to no more than eight ounces per week, according to Millennium Pediatrics. Eating lots of added sugar early in life is linked to obesity, high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes, and those problems put children and young adults at risk for heart disease, according to the Cleveland Clinic. The Clinic adds that filling up on sugary treats leaves less room in a young child’s stomach for nutritious fare like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products. According to The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, young children should avoid added sugar while they are learning to like the flavors of nutritious foods. A child’s added sugar consumption can go up fast (especially when kids ask for seconds), according to Millennium Pediatrics. Items like one serving of boxed cereal, one fruit-filled snack bar and two average-sized cookies contain about 12 grams—or 2.5 teaspoons—of added sugar, which is almost half the daily recommended intake. In addition, a typical sports drink can have more than a day’s worth of added sugar—a 20-ounce bottle may contain 30-35 grams. 32

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Build

Better Habits for Kids

Most kids enjoy cookies, candy and other treats, but while sugar tastes sweet, too much of it is not sweet to our bodies. Setting sugarconsumption boundaries for your kids now helps them create healthy eating habits for life.

Just transitioning from sweets and drinks with added sugar to whole foods and homemade options is a step in the right direction.

BRINGING ALABAMA TO LIFE

So how can children consume less sugar? Healthychildren.org offers the following advice: • Read nutrition facts labels carefully. Aim for less than 25 grams (about 6 teaspoons) of added sugar per day for children two years of age and older. • Serve water and milk. Avoid soda, sports drinks, sweet tea, sweetened coffee and fruit drinks. Milk contains natural sugar (lactose) and provides calcium, protein, vitamin D, and other nutrients children need. • Limit fruit juice. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than 4 ounces of 100-percent fruit juice a day for children ages one through three years; four to six ounces for children ages four through six; and eight ounces for children ages seven through 14. Do not give fruit juice to infants under 1 year old. • Go fresh and limit processed, pre-packed food and drinks. There are hidden sources of added sugar in processed foods like ketchup, dried cranberries, salad dressing and baked beans. Satisfy your child’s sweet tooth with whole fruit. If your child prefers sweet tastes, try avoiding added sugar for a week or a month, then begin to add back foods that they really miss in limited amounts. Avoid artificial sweeteners. They help avoid excess calories but will prevent your child from adjusting to the less sweet flavors of healthy foods. • If sweets are often rewards, switch to nonfood items to treat your child. Consider: play dates, stickers, hugs and high fives.

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ADD It Up:

GRAMS OF SUGAR

= TEASPOON

Keep this tip in mind when reading nutrition labels to better visualize just how much added sugar the product contains.

= One 12-ounce can of cola contains 39 grams of sugar, almost 10 teaspoons.

FRESH Squeeze: Add a squeeze of fresh fruit to plain water for more flavor.

JOYTOLIFE.ORG

TIPS

Smooth Blend up a IDEA: fruity treat.

for Reducing Sweets

• 1 cup fresh spinach, • ½ cup vanilla packed tightly (or ½ cup frozen)

• 1 ripe banana

(fresh or frozen) • 1 cup frozen strawberries

Greek yogurt

• 1 cup milk of choice

Be a role model. Children learn by

observing their parents, so modeling healthy eating habits yourself is important.

• Optional:

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

Make healthy alternatives fun.

Creative, colorful fruit salads or homemade frozen fruit popsicles can help children see healthy foods as exciting and delicious.

Involve your child in the process:

Take them grocery shopping and let them choose fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

Positive reinforcement: When they opt for nutritious snacks like fruit over sugary treats, offer praise or small nonfood rewards. Teach moderation: Not deprivation.

Instead of cutting out all sugary foods, help your child enjoy treats in controlled amounts, like a small scoop of ice cream on weekends or homemade desserts, which are healthier since they usually don’t contain preservatives and dyes.

Be patient: Changing eating habits takes time, and children may resist at first. Continue offering healthier options and support their progress.

Source: Nicklaus Children’s Hospital

BRINGING ALABAMA TO LIFE

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ON THE MOV

Haunted History Fall for this Alabama Ghost Town

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Once Alabama's state capital (18201826), Cahawba became a ghost town shortly after the Civil War.

Get closer to ghosts of the past at Old Cahawba Archaeological Park BY JENNIFER STEWART KORNEGAY PHOTOGRAPHY BY BIG DREAMZ CREATIVE

BRINGING ALABAMA TO LIFE

Old Cahawba's most famous ghost story, Pegues’ ghost, originated during the Civil War years.

Once a thriving river city and Alabama’s original state capital, Old Cahawba in Orrville was mostly abandoned by the late 1800s. And yet, remnants of moments long forgotten remain.

tended-to gardens; inscriptions chiseled into moss-covered tombstones overlooking centuries-old graves in three cemeteries; a Carpenter Gothic-style church consecrated in the 1850s, its wooden walls weathered to gray, still intact.

Take advantage of autumn’s milder tempera-

Today, it’s possible a few haunted spirits still

tures to wander around and wonder amid this

roam the area, making Old Cahawba a ghost

true Alabama ghost town.

town in every sense of the phrase. Dating back to

Once a Mississippian Native American village in the 1500s, the spot where the Cahawba and Alabama Rivers converge was settled again in 1820 as Alabama’s first capital city, Cahawba. While Tuscaloosa took its capital city crown

the 1960s, the story of Pegues’ ghost claims that after Colonel C.C. Pegues died in battle, a glowing orb began floating through his home’s garden maze. (Some have claimed to see the apparition recently.)

in 1826, Cahawba grew into a successful town

And this ghost town isn’t totally devoid of human

and a key trading post as Dallas County’s seat.

life anymore. Last summer, 40 archeology stu-

But shortly after the Civil War, flooding and the

dents from around the country spent 10 weeks

viruses it brought pushed residents elsewhere.

at Old Cahawba learning skills and training to

For a short time, emancipated enslaved people

become professional archaeologists, while also

created a community in Cahawba, but by 1870,

contributing to ongoing research and helping un-

only approximately 300 people called it home. By

cover answers to remaining questions about the

the early 1900s, most of its structures were gone,

site. Archeology days open to the public invite

burned or purposely dismantled.

others to join the effort.

But the life the spot once held is still evident:

Spooky sightings are not guaranteed, but an

lonely columns standing sentinel alongside trees

alluring discovery of Old Cahawba’s special

dripping with Spanish moss; outlines of once-

heritage and unique spot in our state’s history, is.

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Legendary haunts don't just happen in the graveyard at Old Cahawba. Remnants of the life the spot once held have been scaring up some spooky tales for decades.

Frightening FUN

Check out Old Cahawba on Facebook to find times you can visit and details on tours, including special Haunted History Tours in October. These tours are the only time the general public can experience the site after dark and include guided transport to some of the site’s most haunted spots and the chance to join an investigation conducted by Webb Paranormal Group.

BRINGING ALABAMA TO LIFE

great

goods

A gift guide for everyone curated by Things We Like in Montgomery

PRODUCTS, PLACES & THINGS WE LOVE

ALL THE LOVE Great gifts and more overflow from this friendly Montgomery shop.

THE SHOP AROUND THE CORNER After Norman and Charmaine Carter moved back to their hometown of Montgomery, they opened Things We Like in the city’s Old Cloverdale neighborhood. They stock the shelves in their shop with Alabama-made gifts and goods—vibrant socks from Zkano, golden honey from Zizi’s Bee Company, and soothing suds from Fairhope Soap Company —as well as out-of-area artisan brands like Floridabased Rifle Paper Co. and Harlem Candle Company products created in New York City. But Things We Like shares a lot more than the personal favorites of its owners. “For us, Things We Like is about much more than selling products. It is about doing things we like, with people we enjoy, while serving and investing in a community we love,” Norman says. “At the heart of everything we do is a belief that retail can be about more than what you buy; it can be about the relationships you build and the community you create.”

THINGSWELIKEMGM.COM plush animals gently scented with real French lavender that can be warmed in the microwave for soothing comfort. A to Z Menagerie is a beautifully illustrated alphabet book that takes young readers on a whimsical journey through the animal kingdom. The Happy Houseplant Coloring Book and Emily Lex Watercolor workbooks are both quality products to entertain the creative at heart.

LET'S PLAY: WS Game Company makes a dozen classic games like Scrabble, Jenga, and Life, each repackaged to earn their keep as a collection on your bookshelf. Gee’s Bend: Equal Justice Puzzle is a striking puzzle celebrating the artistry and cultural legacy of the renowned quilters of Gee’s Bend, Alabama. It features the quilt work of Essie Bendolph Pettway. 42

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIKA ROWE TRACY

BABY SHOWER TO BIRTHDAYS: Warmies brand offers irresistibly soft

Ready to get into some porch goose fun? Grab a goose and a few outfits to start at Things We Like in Montgomery's Old Cloverdale neighborhood.

SHOP MGM You can find some of Things We Like's favorite brands, like Rifle Paper Co. and WS Game Company, in big-box chain stores, but when you buy local, you support your friends and neighbors and make a positive impact on your local economy, so shop MGM first!

AROMA ALLURE: Harlem Candle Co., founded in Harlem, New York, offers a collection of sophisticated scents including Eartha Eau de Parfum, a sensual fragrance inspired by the legendary Eartha Kitt, capturing her confidence, glamour and unforgettable allure. The Langston luxury room spray inspired by poet Langston Hughes fills your home with warm, rich notes. STYLE ON STYLE: Ellie Vail Jewelry, based in South Florida, brings us modern details on classic jewelry shapes. Stack up the Nerissa Bangle, a coastal-inspired design full of character, Lowell Bangle, a timeless, polished bangle with a clean, versatile design and the Wren Coil Bracelet, a chic coil-style bracelet. A Vera Pelle Italian Leather Handbag/Crossbody made in Florence, Italy, is a treasure. The new style release from the genuine Italian leather line is stamped “Vera Pelle” as a mark of authentic leather craftsmanship. 43

BRINGING ALABAMA TO LIFE

What smells fantastic? Oh, it's Things We Like's signature scent, Fantastic, designed by Norman and Charmaine and produced across the street at Melissa Warnke Candles.

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BRING HOME SOME BAMA

Everyday treats for yourself and the perfect gifts alike are tucked amongst the many and varied products at Things We Like. Shop owners Norman and Charmaine share a few things they LIKE A LOT made right here in Alabama.

Celebrate our state’s maker spirit by shopping Things We Like’s selection of Alabamamade items.

ZKANO SOCKS Comfortable, thoughtfully made socks crafted in the USA with a focus on quality and sustainability. By Zkano based in Fort Payne.

FAIRHOPE SOAP COMPANY Bath and body favorites, including bath bombs, beard oil, HIM and Rose Petal soaps, Sudsy Scrub and hand sanitizer. By Fairhope Soap Company based in Fairhope.

MCEWEN & SONS STONE GROUND GRITS Stone-ground yellow grits and signature Crimson & White Grits, traditionally milled for rich, authentic Southern flavor. By McEwen & Sons in Wilsonville.

ALABAMA SWEET TEA A refreshing Southern classic made with a custom blend of black tea and pure cane sugar. By Alabama Sweet Tea Co. founded in Montgomery.

HORNSBY FARMS SLAPALENO DILLS & BLACKSTRAW JAM Farm-fresh, Southern-style pickles with just the right amount of heat and a delicious berry jam showcasing the sweet flavors of an Alabama family farm. By Hornsby Farms in Auburn.

TENDER HEARTS DOG TREATS

MONTGOMERY GIFT COLLECTION

REP MGM Things We Like has options for giving Alabama's capital city a shout out.

Celebrate the capital city with a denim Montgomery hat, mini jotter notebook and “Shop Your Local Everything” tote showing off the joy of supporting Alabama-based businesses.

BRINGING ALABAMA TO LIFE

Homemade dog treats crafted with love. By Tender Hearts based in New Brockton.

ZIZI’S BEE COMPANY HONEY Local Alabama honey, perfect for adding a little Montgomery sweetness to your day. By ZiZi’s Bee Company based in Montgomery.

Balance

We’ve all heard the phrase “better together,” but when we apply the idea to exercise routines, we reap multiple benefits to our mental and physical well-being that multiply the basic benefits of being active. 46

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Better

TOGETHER Grab a friend and get moving!

Exercising with a workout partner brings a wealth of both physical and mental benefits. BY KYM KLASS

From walking with friends to a game of pickleball to exercise classes at the gym, we’re definitely better together. We are more inclined to

keep striving for and hitting our goals, to stay consistent with our workouts, and also more likely to stave off health issues like heart disease and diabetes, as well as mental woes like isolation and depression. But how can buddying up do so much? Exercising with a friend is simply more fun. You build friendships. Keeping your commitment, goals and routine is easier knowing someone is waiting on you and relying on you to join them. And you could even be safer from threats, according to an article by Better Health Channel, which suggests finding a workout partner through your friend group or family, a neighbor or someone at work. “Suggest a daily or weekly workout date, and make the commitment, helping each other along the way to achieve goals,” the article stated. 47

BRINGING ALABAMA TO LIFE

“I’ve been going to the gym with the same group of friends for almost five years,” said Sandra Benton of Montgomery. “I know there are days that without them, I wouldn’t have shown up. There’s something about knowing they are suffering the same early mornings that makes it easier to wake up. Coffee helps, too,” she said, laughing. “But without my friends, I not only wouldn’t make it to the gym a few times a week, but I wouldn’t be as strong and focused, either.” While working out together helps us stick with an activity plan, looking forward to the boost of friendly interaction that comes with exercising with others can prove motivating when you just don’t want to get out of bed or when the temperature outside is too cold, or too hot. Enjoying your workout buddy’s company can help guard against loneliness, which is associated with heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, depression, chronic stress and premature death, according to Harvard Health Publishing. “Socializing also helps

exercise the brain, which protects your thinking skills,” according to Harvard. “When you socialize, your brain interprets people’s facial expressions, speech, emotions and body language, and then powers your reactions, turning your thoughts into words, facial expressions and body movements. That extra effort from socializing, even if you’re unaware of it, promotes brain cell connections, which keeps thinking and memory sharp.”

Socializing also helps exercise the brain, which protects your thinking skills. When you socialize, your brain interprets people’s facial expressions, speech, emotions and body language, and then powers your reactions, turning your thoughts into words, facial expressions and body movements. - Harvard Health Publishing

Indeed, in the world of health and fitness, there’s a dynamic synergy between physical strength and social connection, according to the American Sports & Fitness Association, which states that group fitness allows you to experience both at once. “It’s more than just a workout; it’s an environment where camaraderie, teamwork and mutual support are built into the experience,” the association stated. “This combination creates an atmosphere where everyone is encouraged to push beyond their limits, while enjoying the journey together.” The resulting energy spike can make even the toughest workouts more manageable and even tolerable. While it might not always be fun, having a partner at your side can make you feel it’s possible. And since exercising together can strengthen bonds, it also promotes emotional support and stress relief. “Exercise has been proven to reduce stress and improve mental well-being,” according to the website Medium. “Having a friend to share this experience with can

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RE AL LIFE Sandra Benton has been going to the gym with the same group of friends for five years. "We feed off each other in workouts, whether it’s just being on the treadmill together, lifting weights or doing an aerobics class. We’re better with each other than without … we get more out of it. Without my friends, I not only wouldn’t make it to the gym a few times a week, but I wouldn’t be as strong and focused, either,” said Benton. enhance the emotional benefits of working out. The shared endorphin rush after a workout can also create a positive and uplifting atmosphere, strengthening the friendship.” Benton agrees. “We feed off each other in workouts,” she said, “whether it’s just being on the treadmill together, lifting weights or doing an aerobics class. We’re better with each other than without … we get more out of it.”

BRINGING ALABAMA TO LIFE

smile lines

LEAVING YOU WITH A LITTLE JOY

THE

BENEFITS WALKING

OI N

FOR A CAUSE TO SAVE LIVES.

A daily walk will improve a whole lot more than your fitness level. Walking’s benefits go beyond the physical. The activity can also lift your spirits and boost your productivity. 1 Increased Energy: Research proves that people

Better Brain Function & Memory:

who take regular walks, even

Walking can help protect the

short ones, have more energy

brain from the natural cognitive

and are more productive than

decline that comes with aging.

people who stay sedentary.

2 Time & Space to Think: Lauded writers like Henry David Thoreau and Virginia Woolf were avid walkers, noting in their letters and journals the many ideas and concepts that came to them on their treks.

3 Higher Self-Esteem: Any accomplished task, even a short walk, makes us feel good

5 Boosted Memory: Regular walks can help you get

Whether matching shirts, similar schedules or lifelong friendships bring you together, grabbing friends to enjoy walking together has great benefits (check out page 46). Joy to Life’s Walk of Life on October 24 is a perfect opportunity to support a great cause and have a little fun with friends. REGISTER AT JOYTOLIFE.ORG (and grab your own Joy to Life SHE shirt while you’re there).

better at retaining information and ramp up recall by increasing the production of cells in

Solvitur ambulando According to the

the hippocampus region of your

CDC, one in 10 adults in the United

brain.

States battle depression, and women are 70 percent more like-

6 Improved Sleep:

ly to be depressed at some point

It is solved by walking.

Many walkers notice the

in their lives than men. As walk-

relaxation effects of their walk,

ing is an inexpensive, low risk and

effects that help them ease into

accessible way to get moving and get those

sleep at night.

good brain chemicals flowing, it’s a powerful weapon in the fight against this issue.

about ourselves.

IN OR OUT? While walking outside offers the added benefit of

fresh air and the boost that comes from being in nature, recent studies have shown that walking indoors on a treadmill also stimulates creative thinking and releases the same stress—and sadness—busting brain chemicals. And you don’t have to walk very long. Most studies on walking’s mental health benefits say that just 30 minutes a day is sufficient for seeing results. 50

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The 8AM answer to an 8PM

S AT U R D AY S P O R T S I N J U R Y C L I N I C

Walk-In | 8AM—8PM

The only control you really have when it comes to getting hurt is where to get treated. That’s why Baptist OrthoNow is here, staffed by board-certified physicians, skilled physical therapists and sports medicine specialists. With no appointment needed, extensive hours, and an all-in-one state-of-the-art facility, we’ll get you back in the game—faster.

334.747.4030

BaptistOrthoNow.org

NO APPOINTMENT NEEDED

7449 EastChase Parkway, across from Target Monday-Saturday 8am-8pm

Introducing Dr. Samantha Lloy F E L LOW S H I P -T R A I N E D B R E A S T S U RG I C A L O N C O LO G I S T Baptist Health is pleased to welcome Dr. Samantha Lloy, fellowship-trained breast surgical oncologist, to the UAB Medicine Breast Health Clinic right here in Montgomery, Alabama. Board-certified in general surgery with advanced fellowship training in breast surgical oncology, Dr. Lloy specializes in the treatment of both benign and malignant breast disease, offering personalized surgical care tailored to each patient’s unique diagnosis and goals. From breast-conserving procedures to mastectomy with reconstruction planning and care for patients at high risk for breast cancer, she’s committed to helping every patient move forward with confidence, compassion, and hope. ADVANCED CREDENTIALS

+ Fellowship-Trained in Breast Surgical Oncology + Board-Certified in General Surgery + Member, American Society of Breast Surgeons + Member, Society of Surgical Oncology Currently accepting new patients. No physician referral required.

BREAST HEALTH CLINIC

MULTISPECIALTY CLINIC BAPTIST MEDICAL CENTER SOUTH

Call 334.747.7440 to schedule an appointment. 52

BRINGING ALABAMA TO LIFE

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