Lake Norman Woman October 2017 by Lake Norman Woman Magazine

k n i pp wer! featuring

THE WOMEN OF SOUTHERN ONCOLOGY SPECIALISTS

DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T MISS THE

Together We Can Make a Difference!

2017 PINK PAGES IN HONOR OF BREAST C ANCER AWARENESS MONTH

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STAFF

L A K E

N O R M A N V O L U M E

X I

woman N U M B E R

I V

PUBLISHER DANA NIETERS

dana@lakenormanwoman.com

EDITOR LESLIE OGLE

leslie@lakenormanwoman.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE STEPHANIE SULLIVAN

stephanie@lakenormanwoman.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE MICHELE SCHUERMANN michele@lakenormanwoman.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE JESSICA JONES

jessica@lakenormanwoman.com

ART DIRECTOR CHELSEA BREN

chelsea@lakenormanwoman.com

DISTRIBUTION MANAGED BY CAROLINA CONSULT, LLC

O C TO B E R CO N T RI BU TO RS :

Dr. Deborah G. Agisim; Stephanie NieuwendijkBramble; Kariann Ellis; Dr. Derick Lengemann; Michelle Love; Dr. Lindsey Mashburn; Dr. Jean-Pierre Riou; Lori Smith; Dr. Louise Zhou

C O N TAC T U S : PO Box 1000 | Cornelius, NC | 28031

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from THE PUBLISHER L I F E S U R E C A N T H R O W YO U

some curve balls. Actually, it’s my experience that it’s not just a matter of if it will, it’s a matter of when. And while it might be great fun to watch a pitcher buckle a batter’s knees with an awe-inspiring 12-6 breaking ball in the world of baseball, it’s not so great when one of those pitches—or even worse, one after another after another—are thrown at you in your own world. For me, this past summer was “The Summer of Wicked Curveballs.” It seemed just about every time I dusted myself off and stepped back up to the plate, life reared back its throwing arm and launched another one in there. A death in the family, a strained relationship, a troubled family member, and a loved one’s life-altering health issue brought me to my knees. I’ve faced many challenges before…they’re just part of life, after all, and you can’t live to be 51 years old without striking out from time to time. But this past summer nearly put me on the bench for good. Like a batter who has just whiffed at a ball that he couldn’t see coming, I felt exposed, vulnerable, and overwhelmed. I found myself in a dark place, wondering if I would ever be happy again. And then I met Lynn. After several years of infertility, Lynn had been loving life as the mother of three young girls when life threw a devastating curve ball her way—inoperable, terminal cancer. There was nothing her doctors could do, and she was told to get her affairs in order. That was two years ago. Many in her shoes would live in fear for what lie ahead, but Lynn is one of the most positive, happy people I have ever known. “What will be, will be,” she asserts. “I don’t know what the future holds, but I have today and I am not going to waste it with anxiety and worry. Life isn’t always easy, but that

doesn’t mean I can’t laugh. Sure, there are challenges ahead, but that doesn’t mean I can’t smile. I can allow what is going to be to be and enjoy life as it unfolds.” After meeting and talking with Lynn, I was ready to pick myself up and dust myself off— step back up to the plate for another swing. After all, how could I not be inspired to get back in the game by her example? She is living proof that happiness isn’t the absence of problems, it’s how you choose to deal with them. She epitomizes the notion that it’s not what the world takes away from you that matters, it’s what you do with what you have left that counts. She embodies the fact that true strength comes when you have so much to cry and complain about, but you choose to appreciate life as it is instead. This is our “Pink Pages” issue that we publish annually in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October. Although great advances have been made in the treatment of this disease in the last 20 years, in 2017 alone, more than 250,000 American women will get thrown this curve ball. And though I don’t know firsthand, I feel certain that a breast cancer diagnosis must feel as if you are facing the wickedest pitch of your life. If you or someone you love is standing in that batter’s box, I hope that you won’t be like me and let the worry, wonder, and doubt bring you to your knees. Instead, I hope that you will think of Lynn and stay strong and steady as the pitch comes in and hit that darn ball right out of the park!

a n a D DANA NIETERS PUBLISHER

C O N TA C T D A N A V I A E - M A I L AT D A N A @ L A K E N O R M A N W O M A N . C O M

LAKE NORMAN WE’RE NEST REALTY, IT’S NICE TO MEET YOU. If you would, we’d like to take a moment to tell you about ourselves. In short, we’re a different breed of real estate brokerage. Our difference is born from our belief that buying and selling real estate is the most important financial decision you will ever make. We focus on providing our clients with market k n ow l e d g e, t h o u g h t f u l g u i d a n ce, a n d c l e a r communication from start to finish.

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Amelia Hinson, Broker

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LIVE WHERE YOU LOVE 21325 Catawba Ave | Cornelius, NC 28031 | NestRealty.com/LKN

OCTOBER 2017 |

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OUR ANNUAL PINK PAGES

w O C TO B E R

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2017

CONTENTS PINK PAGES 16 A DAY IN THE LIFE OF

A SURVIVOR: Kathy Wheeler

SHOULD I GET GENETIC SCREENING?

3D MAMMOGRAPHY: What's In It For You?

KNOWING, PREVENTING, DETECTING, SURVIVING, AND THRIVING

CHEMO AND HAIR LOSS: What Are Your Options?

BREAST CANCER RECONSTRUCTION: Becoming "Whole" Again

JACKIE PACE & RACHAEL HOWER Huntington Learning Center

in every issue 36

5 THI N GS TO DO IN OCTOB ER

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WOMEN ON T H E M OVE

S C E N E W I TH L KNW : 10 YEAR ANNI V ER SARY PART Y

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{

O N THE C OVER: DR. R AMA N D E E P BA M BR A H & DR. SWET H A GU J JA O F SOUT H E RN O NCO LO GY SPEC IA L ISTS PH OTO G R A PH Y BY:

LKNW MEMORABLE MOMENTS

CH E LS EA BRE N

8 THINGS BRAVE WOMEN DO

DANA MARTIN Lake Norman Power Sports

FAMILY 54 7 SIGNS YOUR CHILD MAY HAVE ADHD FEATURES 12 WOMEN TO WATCH:

Jackie Pace & Rachael Hower

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A SURVIVOR

COVER STORY: Tackling Cancer With Teamwork

FAMILIES WHO WORK TOGETHER: Dave & Tiffany Riddle

HERE SHE IS: Dana Martin

SUCCESS STORY: Intertwined Paths To Success

Lisa Crates Photography

Kathy Wheeler

Lisa Crates Photography

OOPS! We goofed! Dave & Tiffany Riddle’s name was incorrect in our September issue! Look for the corrected version of the article on page 42.

HEALTH 52 WHAT EXACTLY ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS? HOME 50 FIXING YOUR FENG SHUI AND YOUR HEALTH!

IN THE KITCHEN 48 EASY PUMPKIN BREAD SELF 10 8 THINGS BRAVE WOMEN DO

MIND, BODY, SPIRIT: Your Dog,Your Health

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E ETS & CEL EBRA WM TE S N

HAR

I E T CU N I NGHAM

A patient at Southern Oncology Specialists, Hariet posed with our ribbon while awaiting treatment. Kick cancer’s can, Hariet!

DR. VICKIE LOVIN & DENISE CURTIS, PA More Than Faces Medical Spa

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8 THINGS

8 interesting milestones, events, scoops, triﬂes, or just cool stuff.

brave women do 8 things

THEY PROMOTE THEMSELVES. They toot their own horns and celebrate their success.

THEY FINISH WHAT THEY START.

They know that nothing changes if you don’t deliver on your promises and your ideas.

THEY CHANGE (OR THEY DON’T).

THEY SAY NO.

amstime

They either ﬁgure out how to be who they want to be, or they ﬁgure out how to be happy with who they are.

They set boundaries, own their “no’s” and work out any uncomfortable feelings that come up.

THEY LAUGH AT THEMSELVES.

They understand that to laugh at yourself is to forgive yourself.

THEY CHOOSE HEROES.

They emulate the magic and genius of those they admire.

THEY’RE NOT AFRAID TO FAIL. Win some, lose some, NEXT!

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THEY DO THE THINGS THEY FEAR THE MOST.

They step out of their comfort zone, even though it scares the bejeezus out of them! | OCTOBER 2017

EXPLORE ASIAN CULTURE AT THE GARDEN SEPTEMBER 7 – OCTOBER 29 W E D N E S D AY T H R O U G H S U N D AY 5 : 3 0 - 9 : 3 0 P. M .

Enter a world of illuminated insects, pandas, lions, flamingos and hundreds of other wondrous and colorful animals from around the world. Each of these larger-than-life f lanterns is created fe by masters of the craft f in China’s’s’ center of lantern ft heritage. Shop fo f r unique craft f s handmade on site, ft marvel at Kung Fu masters and enjoy our unique Asian-inspired horticultural display.

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A PRODUCTION OF

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jackie PACE & rachael HOWER

LKNW RECOGNIZES A WOMAN DOING EXCEPTIONAL WORK IN THE LAKE NORMAN COMMUNITY, A LEADER WHO IS PAVING THE WAY TO CHANGING OUR ATTITUDES AND INSPIRING CONFIDENCE IN THE FUTURE.

on TEACHING—

“I’m one of those people who just always knew what I wanted to do ... I wanted to change lives through teaching. At Huntington we teach reading, writing, math, study skills, and SAT and ACT prep, but we do so much more than that! In 1992, when I started with Huntington in Charlotte, I had no idea what would happen. Eight years later, the ﬁrst of many “thank you” phone calls arrived—a mom called to say we had changed her daughter’s life and that she was getting ready to graduate from college as a teacher! In 2001, my husband and I moved to Lake Norman and I opened the Huntersville Huntington. Now, with more than 25 years at Huntington, we are changing lives in Charlotte and in the Lake Norman area! RACHAEL: “I always wanted to teach and enjoyed working with children. As I started to pursue the teaching profession, I realized my admiration for the teachers was what made learning fun. I want to be that kind of teacher … Huntington Learning Center is the perfect place for me! And although I’ve just been with them a short time, I’m learning so much and am happy to be in an educational setting with such high standards and to be a part of this amazingly caring, compassionate staff!” JACKIE:

on WORDS THAT MATTER—

“From Winnie the Pooh: ‘Always remember you’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.’ That’s what we instill in all of our kids at Huntington.” RACHAEL: “Don’t let others stop you from pursuing your goals, but most importantly, don’t let your own negative thoughts stop you from pursuing your goals.” JACKIE:

Jackie Pace (left) & Rachael Hower Huntington Learning Center HUNTERSVILLE, NC

on MAKING A DIFFERENCE—

“When I think of the most exciting moments, there are almost too many to mention. But when a young adult stopped by the center just to tell us that he could never have graduated from Providence Day, could never have gotten into Georgia, could never have graduated from Georgia, could never have gotten the job with a major ﬁnancial institution downtown, and could never have gotten into the University of Chicago’s MBA program if he had not attended Huntington, that was a special feel-good moment for all of us!” JACKIE:

on FUN OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM—

RACHAEL: “I

Jackie Pace is the Executive Director, and Rachael Hower is the Assistant Director at Huntington Learning Center in Huntersville. Huntington Learning Center has been partnering with Lake Norman parents to help their children achieve academically since 2001. For more information, call 704.896.9699 or visit www.HuntingtonHelps.com.

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love to travel! I always have an idea of a trip brewing in the back of my mind. I traveled to Ireland in 2013. It was amazing to experience a different culture. My ﬁancé, Brooks, and I are getting married on September 1, 2018, and plan to honeymoon in Thailand … I would also love to travel to Scotland, Germany, and Switzerland.”

By: Michelle Love | Photography By: Chelsea Bren

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pink pages LKNW'S

TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE OCTOBER 2017 |

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ay d a

i n t h e lif e

… © Charnsitr | Dreamstime

{ of a survivor! }

Kathy

EXPECT THE BEST AND DEAL WITH THE REST Give yourself 5 minutes to cry and then come out ﬁghting. Don’t assume everyone treats cancer the same way. Do your research, ask a lot of questions, listen to your gut, and get a second opinion if you aren’t satisﬁed.

Wheeler

I HAVE LOTS OF PERFECT DAYS Some days it’s perfect when my to-do list dwindles down to nothing, or my husband helps me with a project, or I get to spend time with one of my sons. Other days, it is a walk on the beach, or a trip to the lake with friends or family. Some days it is a relaxing massage and lunch with a friend, or getting time to lie on the sofa and read a good book.

DON’T SWIM IN DEEP WATERS TOO LONG It is up to me, God, and my faith to pull through whatever life throws my way. My favorite scripture is Psalms 23:4— though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me. As a pastor friend of mine used to say, “I don’t plan on pitching a tent and camping out in it.” It is a temporary situation, a bump in the road. I plan for the future. POSITIVE ENERGY ONLY, PLEASE Please don’t cry or burden me with fears. I have had breast cancer three times. I don’t ever tell anyone the diagnosis until I have dealt with my emotions and have my game face on. They can help physically and be there when necessary, but mostly keep your sense of humor and laugh with me. Be positive … I am!

WHO HAS INSPIRED YOU? I think all of the women who have dealt with cancer on their own terms—those who have tweaked the treatment to ﬁt their circumstances. It doesn’t have to be a one-size-ﬁts-all.

I’M STILL ME! Cancer has really not changed me that much. I have always tried to live fearlessly. I enjoy life and ﬁlling it with things that I love … family, friends, art, music, creative stuff. I like my normal life just ﬁne.

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BUTTERFLY KISSES Family and friends can offer a lot of helpful support as long as they don’t smother you. I love when my sons come in, kiss me on the forehead, and ask me if I need anything … or when my husband pitches in with chores, cooks for me, tells me he loves me, and is just there for me.

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pink pages

SHOULD I GET GENETIC SCREENING? … AND OTHER IMPORTANT INFO! By: Louise Zhou, MD

In the United States, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths in women. However, since 1991, deaths from breast cancer have been declining due to a combination of more effective treatments and early detection. This is why it is so important for women to go for their preventative screening mammograms. Women who go for regular screening mammograms will catch breast cancers at a much earlier stage, sometimes before they even feel a lump. Self-breast exams can catch about 50 percent of breast cancers, but screening mammograms can detect approximately 90 percent and, if caught early, breast cancer is curable!

Genetic screening (BRCA mutation) is also important for women who have: (or have had) ovarian cancer a known family history of a gene mutation such as BRCA early-age diagnosis of breast cancer a personal or family history of more than three different types of cancers triple negative breast cancer (for patients younger than 60 years of age) two separate breast cancers ﬁrst- or second-degree relative with breast cancer (diagnosed at age younger than 45)

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QUESTIO NS TO ASK YOUR ONCOLO GIST IF YOU’VE BEEN DIAGNO SED WITH BREAST CANCER :

What is the stage of my cancer? What is the hormone profile of my breast cancer (estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and HER2/neu receptor)? What are my treatment options? (surgery, radiation, chemotherapy?) What are the side effects of my treatment plan? After I have been treated for my breast cancer, what is the follow-up afterwards to make sure that it doesn’t come back?

Dr. Louise Zhou is an oncologist at Southern Oncology Specialists in Charlotte (704.945.6843) and Huntersville (704.947.5005). You may also visit them at www.southernoncologync.com. | OCTOBER 2017

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3D MAMMOGRAPHY: MAMMOGRAPHY: WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU? By: Dr. Deborah G. Agisim

All 13 Charlotte Radiology breast centers offer 3D mammography (including a new location in Mooresville). Learn more at CharlotteRadiology.com/3D, or call 704.367.2232 to make an appointment.

DID YOU KNOW? w

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It’s no secret that mammograms are saving lives. After all, mammography is the only screening method that has consistently proven to reduce breast cancer deaths. It can detect a lump up to two years before you or your physician can feel it—and that kind of early detection is what gives us a leg up on cancer. With breast cancer affecting one in every eight women, it’s imperative that all women begin an annual mammogram routine at age 40. And now that 3D mammography is becoming more widely available, it’s an option that experts believe we should all consider.

2D digital mammography has long been the gold standard for early detection. But 3D digital mammography, or tomosynthesis, is the newest and most advanced technology available. It produces 3D images of the breast (as opposed to the flat images produced by 2D digital mammography), allowing radiologists to view breast tissue in layers. 3D mammography is performed at the same time as a normal mammogram, on the same scanner, with no noticeable differences from a patient’s standpoint. 3D mammography is changing the face of early breast cancer detection. As such, Charlotte Radiology breast centers offer this technology, plus two mobile breast centers. There are some very clear benefits from 3D mammography:

3D mammography is a great option for all women, but those with dense breasts or no prior mammogram to use for comparison are urged to consider it.

BETTER VISUALIZATION.

3D mammography produces multiple images or “slices” that step through the breast tissue, allowing radiologists to see in greater detail. Obstructions are reduced and abnormalities can be seen more clearly. IMPROVED SENSITIVITY.

By reducing the impact of overlapping breast tissue, 3D mammography can sometimes detect cancers that might otherwise remain hidden. With the help of 3D technology, Charlotte Radiology has seen a 57 percent improvement in the detection of invasive breast cancers, not to mention a 34 percent increase in overall cancer detection rate. REDUCED CALLBACKS.

3D technology can help radiologists distinguish normal breast tissue from abnormal breast tissue. For example, a woman may be called back for more tests if her 2D mammogram shows an area of concern; however, 3D technology could enable the radiologist to see that the “area of concern” is simply normal breast tissue that is overlapping, saving the woman undue anxiety. Charlotte Radiology has reduced callbacks by 15 percent with 3D technology.

A growing number of insurance providers are covering 3D mammography, including Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Blue Cross Blue Shield-North Carolina, CIGNA, Medcost 300, Medicare, and United Healthcare.

Even without coverage, outof-pocket costs at Charlotte Radiology are just $55 for 3D mammography.

Women’s Health

CORE Intima

UltraShape Power

Aesthetic Procedures

Does Cancer Run In Your Family? Cancer may be inherited if:

Multiple

• 2 or more: breast /ovarian / prostate / pancreatic cancer • 2 or more: colorectal / endometrial / ovarian / gastric / pancreatic / other cancers (i.e., ureter/renal pelvis, biliary tract, small bowel, brain, sebaceous adenomas) • 2 or more: melanoma / pancreatic cancer

Young

• Breast cancer • Colorectal cancer • Endometrial cancer

Rare

• Ovarian cancer • Breast: male breast cancer or triple negative breast cancer • Colorectal cancer with abnormal MSI/IHC, MSI associated histology†† • Endometrial cancer with abnormal MSI/ IHC • 10 or more gastrointestinal polyps*

A combination of cancers on the same side of the family.

Any one of the following cancers at age 50 or younger. Any one of these rare presentations at any age.

The good news is that we can test for these hereditary cancers and lower the chances of getting cancer. Dr. Lindsey Mashburn MD, FACOG

Know Your Risk. Knowing saves lives.

Certain ancestries may have greater risk for hereditary cancer syndromes (e.g., Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry)

704-896-9912 | 19453 West Catawba Ave, Suite A, Cornelius, NC 28031 | www.southlakewomens.com

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pink pages recommend limiting alcohol to two servings a week. And everyone knows that smoking increases the risk of lung cancer, but it also increases the risk of breast, cervical, bladder, and other cancers. High risk patients may also take medications to decrease their risk, and some women in the highest risk categories choose surgery to prevent breast cancer. These women are known as previvors—they have survived breast cancer by preventing it!

Knowing,

Preventing,

DETECTING,

surviving,

thriving

and

By: Dr. Lindsey Mashburn

Knowing your risk is the first step in your prevention and

detection strategy for breast cancer. The average lifetime risk of breast cancer is around 12 percent. However, a family history may increase your risk further to over 20 percent. If your family carries a broken gene, the risk can be as high as 87 percent. The good news? If you are in a higher risk category you can qualify for additional screening and prevention strategies that can reduce the risk to less than 5 percent for some patients. Genetic testing is now covered by most insurance plans for patients who meet criteria.

Prevention is for everyone and starts with healthy living. This

includes exercise, which can reduce the risk of many cancers including breast cancer. Breastfeeding can reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. And Mediterranean diets high in fruit and veggies, minimally processed whole grains, olive oil, and seafood have been shown to decrease the risk of breast cancer as well. Healthy living does not include alcohol, smoking, or obesity. Even small amounts of alcohol can increase the risk of breast cancer. I

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The first step in detecting breast cancer is to get familiar with your breasts through regular self-breast exams. If you notice new lumps, increased firmness, skin changes, dimpling of the skin, or other changes, let your doctor know. Mammograms are not 100 percent but still play a key role in early detection. Timing of mammograms depends on your health, your family history, and your choices about your health care. A patient with a mother who had breast cancer at age 35, for example, and an aunt with breast cancer at age 60, may start mammograms as early as age 25 and have breast MRIs every year as well. A patient with no family history can wait until age 40 (some would even suggest age 50) for her first mammogram. It is important to discuss an early detection plan with your physician.

Thriving after surviving can be a struggle

due to physical and emotional effects of cancer and treatments. As a gynecologist with a special interest in menopause care, I see many survivors who struggle with the normal menopause symptoms of hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, and sexual health concerns. Often it is assumed that hormone replacement therapy is the only treatment option, but there are non-hormonal options that can help. The Core Intima is a laser treatment that I perform that is greatly improving intimacy and sexual health.

Early detection improves your chance

of survival, and working with your doctor to know your risk and to develop a prevention and detection strategy is key! This will protect the quality of life you’re living today and the life you dream of for tomorrow. Dr. Lindsey Mashburn is a practicing physician at South Lake Women’s Healthcare in Cornelius, call 704.896.9912 or visit www.southlakewomens.com.

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pink pages

CHEMO AND HAIR LOSS— © Isolateshin | Dreamstime

What Are Your Options?

If you have long hair, you may want to consider cutting it. It’s a fact that short hair tends to look fuller—not to mention if you do lose your hair, the transition is slightly easier. This is the time to start to consider head coverings such as scarves, wigs, and hats. The upside to this is that all these options can be quite fashionable. Many people are unaware of the fact that your doctor can write you a prescription for a wig, the cost of which may be covered by your health insurance.

By: Lori Smith

If you or someone you know is facing chemotherapy or radiation and decide to shave your head, the staff here at The Hair Basin will do this at no cost. We will also be happy to discuss options with you. And remember, your hair is there to protect and adorn, but true beauty comes from within—you are beautiful with or without your hair!

we were taught the purpose of your hair is to protect and adorn. Many people do not think about the importance of hair until faced with chemotherapy or radiation—then the possibility of hair loss becomes a very real thing … and that is scary! WHILE IN BEAUTY SCHOOL,

Chemotherapy not only attacks cancer cells, it also attacks other rapidly-growing cells in your body, including those in your hair roots. Not everyone will lose their hair, but if you do, it usually starts within 2-4 weeks after you start treatment and may continue up to a few weeks after treatment ends. Some people lose their hair gradually while others will lose it in clumps. Unfortunately, at this time no treatment exists that can guarantee your hair won’t fall out, but here are some tips and advice for before, during, and after treatment regardless of whether you suffer hair loss or not: Do your research when it comes to products like Minoxidil (Rogaine®). Research shows this isn’t likely to prevent hair loss, but it may speed up hair regrowth; hair loss generally cannot be prevented but can be managed.

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Be gentle to your hair; it will be very fragile. Doctors along with hairstylists recommend that you do not perm, color, or bleach your hair before or during treatment. Avoid things that will weaken your hair such as the heat of hairdryers, curling irons, and flat irons.

Always remember to protect your head with sunscreen (there are special scalp sunscreens available). Post-treatment, continue gentle hair care; your new hair growth is still very fragile. And continue to hold off on putting any chemicals in your hair (perms, color, and bleach) until your hair grows stronger. Be patient. Most of the time your hair will come back slowly, and it may not look “normal” right away. Lori Smith is the co-owner of The Hair Basin at 539 E Plaza Drive, Suite P, in Mooresville, 704.230.4187.

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Breast Cancer Reconstruction: BECOMING “WHOLE” AGAIN By: Jean-Pierre Riou, MD, FACS

MICKEY PELILLO WAS 53 YEARS OLD when we saw her in consultation

for mastectomy reconstruction. Career social worker and mother of two daughters, Mickey was the picture of health. She was a normal weight Ironman triathlete, taking no medications and following a healthy diet and lifestyle. Despite her wise choices, she became one of the 230,000 American women who develop breast cancer every year.

Mickey underwent bilateral mastectomies in her hometown in West Virginia, but they did not have plastic surgery services available for immediate reconstruction. As with many women, she sought a “delayed” reconstruction several months later. Plastic surgery should always be an integral part of breast cancer care, along with radiology, surgery, and oncology. If the opportunity exists and the patient is a good candidate, immediate reconstruction at the time of the mastectomy is preferable, but delayed reconstructions can also lead to good results. Health insurance companies are required by law to cover all components of mastectomy reconstruction including opposite side reduction, lift, augmentation, or prophylactic mastectomy. This has been so since the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA) was passed by Congress in 1998. Once the patient has decided to proceed with reconstruction, it is imperative to minimize risks. If they smoke, they must stop. If they are obese, they are encouraged to lose weight, and if they have associated illnesses such as diabetes, they must be well managed. Mickey was a very low risk patient and, as can be seen in the video documentary of her journey

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(riouplasticsurgery.com, videos #1-4), she had an uneventful postoperative course with a good aesthetic result. The options for reconstruction are broadly divided into implants or autologous (patient’s own tissue). With the advent of Acellular Dermal Matrices (ADMs) in the last decade, implant reconstruction has become the first line option—with more consistent results than in the past. It can be done as an outpatient procedure and has a faster recovery. However, if there is a serious deficit of soft tissue or the patient has severe radiation scarring, autologous reconstruction becomes the better choice. The two areas that serve well as donor sites for tissue transfer are the tummy and the back. The tummy flap (TRAM, DIEP) involves transferring the skin and fat that would normally be discarded during a “tummy-tuck” and moving it to the chest to sculpt into a new breast (videos #5-7). Mickey was a typical implant reconstruction. In general, since it

is difficult to obtain the full volume required at the initial surgery (First Stage), an expander is placed that can be inflated with saline through the skin over the course of the next 2-6 months. Once the desired size is obtained, the patient undergoes another outpatient surgery (Second Stage), where the expander is replaced by a permanent form-stable silicone gel prosthesis. At this time, the pocket is fine-tuned by tightening or releasing certain areas where necessary, and a nipple-areola reconstruction is done (if a nipple-sparing mastectomy was not performed initially). Fat can also be grafted when the mastectomy flaps are very thin or if the patient has had radiation. This consists of harvesting fat and stem cells from another area of the body through liposuction and injecting them back into the mastectomy reconstruction. As was well summarized by Mickey’s account of her surgeries, the First Stage is quite painful for the first few days, with uncomfortable drains that stay in 7-10 days and a 3-6 week recovery; the Second Stage is a bit easier, with just a week recovery. Tattooing of the nippleareola reconstruction is the final touch and does not involve going to the hospital. Mastectomy reconstruction has been shown to reduce postoperative depression and improve body image. Our team of nurses and health care workers are passionate about providing the best possible compassionate care to these woman who deserve to become “whole” again.

Dr. Riou’s practice, Harborview Plastic Surgery Center, specializes exclusively in breast aesthetics and cancer reconstruction, drawing from a wide geographic area (20% of their patients are from out of state). Over the last 23 years, he has performed over 1,600 mastectomy reconstructions, more than a hundred of them free of charge.

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memorable moments At LKNW LKNW,, we believe that we all have a story to tell and that we can all learn from one another. Here are some of our most inspiring moments from women we featured in past issues—because optimism, hopefulness, and encouragement are timeless!

Angie Carpenter, Breast Cancer Warrior:

“I’m not wired to give up. I chose to get up and ﬁght, and I’m so glad I did. It’s my hope and prayer that when others read this, they’ll want to do the same.” OCTOBER 2015

Our very ﬁrst Pink Pages issue! OCTOBER 2012

“Breast cancer changed my life. I learned not to sweat the small stuﬀ and realized that God and family are the most important things in the world." Kris Brodof, Breast Cancer Warrior OCTOBER 2016

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“Never allow a diagnosis to deﬁne who you are or what you want to do with your life. And never, ever, give up, no matter what!” Mother & Daughter Peggy Myers and Michelle Myers-Croom FROM OCTOBER 2015

Cancer cannot cripple love, It cannot shatter hope, It cannot destroy peace, It cannot kill friendship, It cannot suppress memories, It cannot silence courage, It cannot steal eternal life. Excerpt from a poem provided by Breast Cancer Warrior Barbara Mansell FROM OCTOBER 2013

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Dr. Ramandeep Bambrah | Dr. Swetha Gujja | Dr. Louise Zhou SOUTHERN ONCOLOGY SPECIALISTS

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By: Michelle Love | Photography By: Chelsea Bren

Teamwork

TACKLING CANCER WITH

Dr. Ramandeep Bambrah, Dr. Swetha Gujja, and Dr. Louise Zhou make up a dedicated team of hematology/oncology physicians at Southern Oncology Specialists in Huntersville. All three physicians are passionate about getting one simple message out to women everywhere—Get your mammograms! DR. RAMANDEEP BAMBRAH grew up

DR. SWETHA GUJJA also suggests that

“If there was one piece of advice I could give a new oncology physician graduate,” Dr. Bambrah says, “it is to follow your intuitions and know that you do make a difference in your patients’ lives.” She suggests that the best thing women can do for themselves is to actually take time out of their day to spend relaxing and refreshing their mind. “You’ll be better able to prioritize and spend your time focusing on the things that truly matter,” she smiles.

Because life doesn’t always go as planned, Dr. Gujja is more aware of the little things that she is thankful for. “I love my career, but it involves some sacrifices, and burnout

in the suburbs of Cleveland, Ohio, and knew from a very early age that she wanted to be a physician. She graduated medical school from Ross University and went into private practice in the San Francisco Bay area for several years. “I wanted to be closer to my family, so I moved back this year to the East Coast and joined Southern Oncology Specialists,” she states. In the world of oncology, which can be very emotionally draining, Dr. Bambrah is grateful for her loving family and friends who keep her going.

new oncology physicians take time to focus. “This career path is hard, but if you stay focused and passionate, you will enjoy the positive impact you have in your patients’ lives.” Dr. Gujja grew up in a city in India where she attended the top medical school in the state. After marrying her husband, she moved to the United States and finished her fellowship in Little Rock, Arkansas. The couple moved to the Lake Norman area after realizing the pleasant weather, friendly people, and excellent schools. Dr. Gujja has been through the cancer battle herself with a few of her family members, so she has a keen perspective of the challenges her patients face. “I always tell my patients to prepare for the worst, but hope for the best,” she says encouragingly. “We celebrate victories together and grieve when there is loss.”

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is inevitable,” she admits. Having the support of her husband helps a great deal, as she is away from her 5-yearold daughter and 2-year-old son more than she would like. DR. LOUISE ZHOU grew

up in New York City and knew she wanted to become a physician at the age of 5. She remembers telling her grandfather that she

wanted to be a doctor just like him. After completing her residency and fellowship at the University of Florida, Dr. Zhou moved to the Lake Norman area to join Southern Oncology Specialists. She shares her home with her two lovely fur babies: a cat named Normandy and a Goldendoodle puppy named Lilo.

"The human spirit is very resilient, and when there is perseverance and determination, the ﬁght will continue.”

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Just like her partners, Dr. Zhou recognizes the difficulties of her career. She believes that creating a balance is very important, and saying “no” to some things is imperative. “I’ve learned,” she says, “that it is important to have some down time and some personal time to recharge.” Being able to give a patient great news that their cancer is in remission or that they’ve been cured is what keeps her going. Dr. Zhou stresses, “The human spirit is very resilient, and when there is perseverance and determination, the fight will continue.” She also encourages her patients to

keep an optimistic outlook, noting the significance of a strong mental attitude in the healing process. These physicians know it takes coordinated teamwork to battle this disease. Cancer patients rely on their medical team, as well as their loved ones and other support systems, to work together to fight the fight! The physicians of Southern Oncology Specialists stress the importance of early detection, promoting regular mammograms, and working together as a team to battle the complexities of cancer.

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calendar

5 THINGS AN LKN

Sat. & Sun., THROUGH NOV. 5:

THE AMAZING MAIZE MAZE 4431 Neck Road Huntersville Opens 10am

Get lost in this giant seven-acre corn maze with over two miles of interconnecting paths. You can also take a hayride around the farm, explore the historic site, have a picnic, or hike the trails.

3 Fri.-Sun.,

OCT. 20 THROUGH 22:

5 w

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OCT. 21

OMAN SHOULD DO IN OCTOBER

CAROLINA BALLOON FESTIVAL Statesville Regional Airport 26 Hangar Dr. Statesville Hours vary

Morning and late afternoon balloon launches, plus live music, tethered balloon rides, an artisan village, Kids Zone, a wine & craft beer garden, great festival foods, and more!

Rural Hill 4431 Neck Road Huntersville All Day

Live music, children’s activities, costume contest, craft vendors, food trucks and ﬁreworks at 7:15pm.

Sat. & Sun., THROUGH NOV. 19:

CAROLINA RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL 16445 Poplar Tent Rd. Huntersville, 10am to 5:30pm

This 16th-century European-style art and entertainment festival combines outdoor theater, circus entertainment, arts and crafts marketplace, a jousting tournament, a feast ﬁt for royalty, and much more.

HALLOWEEN IN HUNTERSVILLE & FIREWORKS SPOOKTACULAR Sat.,

Fri.-Sat.,

OCT. 20 THROUGH 21:

GHOST WALK HAUNTED TRAIL Latta Plantation 5225 Sample Rd. Huntersville 7pm-10pm

A thrilling haunted trail for those willing to brave the ghosts! Olde Mecklenburg Brewery and Anna’s Sweet Treats will be serving spirits and goodies.

1153 Embrace the Change. Talk to us about how to keep your skin looking its best - no matter what the season.

Cosmetic Procedures Botox® • Juvedérm® • Voluma Kybella® • Dysport® Restylane® • Rejuvapen • SilkPeel® • Chemical Peels Hair Removal • Photorejuvenation • miraDry®/miraSmooth

Skin Care Product Lines SkinMedica® • Elta MD®• Revision Skincare® • Latisse®

Naomi Simon, MD • Scott Paviol, MD Board Certified Dermatologists

Kristin Prochaska, PA-C • Lauren Wilson, PA-C Certified Physician Assistants 128 Medical Park Road, Suite 201 Mooresville, NC 28117 MooresvilleDermCenter.com

704.235.1827 OCTOBER 2017 |

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women on the move JAYCEE HENDERSON is the

newest team member to join Savvy Salon and Day Spa’s Apprenticeship Training Program in Cornelius. A recent graduate of the Aveda Institute in Charlotte, Jaycee chose to further her training at Savvy because of their advanced hands-on training program which is taught by experienced, passionate individuals.

Savvy Salon and Day Spa in Cornelius is pleased to announce that hair stylist, KRIS HAWKINS, has been selected to join the Savvy Apprenticeship Training Program. Kris relocated to Lake Norman from Princeton, West Virginia, where she worked as a stylist.

CIARA DELGADO was named

Elevate Lifestyle Magazine’s Best KickA$$ Female Personal Trainer in Charlotte for the second year in a row. Ciara is an Alpha Trainer for Camp Gladiator in Huntersville and runs her bootcamps in Birkdale Village. Ciara just returned from speaking at the International Conference on Sport & Society in London and will be speaking at The University of Denver (Oct 5-6) on Diabetic Pharmacology and Training.

These awesome young ladies and their coach helped lead Pine Lake Prep’s high school robotics team—TEAM SPORK —to the World Championships in Houston where they competed with the top robotics teams from around the globe. Team SPORK advanced to the championships after ﬁnishing as one of the top teams in North Carolina for 2017. (Pictured L to R are: Nidhi Dhupati, Pooja Anil, Georgia Picariello, Coach Leslie Clegg, Anneliese McInnis, Sriya Dhupati, and Maggie Wagner)

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OCTOBER 2017 |

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““ Scene

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WITH

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'SAIL-EBRATING' LKNW'S 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY! On September 14, 2017, LAKE NORMAN WOMAN celebrated our 10-Year Anniversary! We set sail aboard the Carolina Grace with 120 of our closest friends, family, and supporters. Thanks to everyone who made this night spectacular!

View more Scene photos & more at our Facebook page: Facebook.com/ LakeNormanWoman

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families who

w�rk TOG

ETHER

Two Str�ng Dudes M�ving & Car�lina Cleaning S�luti�ns WHO WORKS TOGETHER: Husband & wife Dave and Tiﬀany Riddle

WE ARE BLESSED: “Not only

to travel (Tahiti is our favorite!), and we try to take vacations quarterly to keep our minds fresh and renewed. We have our sights set on Madrid for our next adventure. Also, our daughter’s school is in close proximity to our main ofﬁce, so we have lunch with her a few days each week. And date nights are essential!”

FOCUSING ON THE POSITIVES:

KEEPING EACH OTHER IN CHECK: “With two successful

am I working with my spouse, but I am also working with my best friend. Being in business for yourself creates many challenges, and it is a blessing that my business partner is someone who I trust and will always be honest with me no matter what the situation.” “The only real negative is that we are together constantly, and sometimes that means bringing the job home to discuss important matters. Subsequently, that can take away from our family time together. Our daughter, AydenElizabeth, is 8 years old now, so we do make a conscience effort to do things as a family and build happy memories.”

DID SOMEONE SAY TAHITI:

“We have several things we do to ‘get away from it all.’ We love

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businesses to run, we do have challenging moments. However, Dave trusts me to handle the financial aspects of both businesses since I have an MBA in finance, and Dave is great with sales, marketing, and people in general so he runs the field operations. We both know our areas of strengths and weaknesses which allows us to balance the business without stepping on each other’s toes.”

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TIGHT

and NATURAL

It’s no surprise that in the year 2017 people are less and less likely to pursue highly invasive options for their elective cosmetic needs. Here at Carolina Age Management, we have recognized for years patients’ desires to have minimally invasive procedures without risk or downtime. This is why we are so proud to oﬀer Thermi technology, with the most recent procedure being the ThermiBreast lift.

hermiBreast is a variant of the Thermitight procedure that tightens skin dramatically in patients who would otherwise need surgery. However, this procedure is done using oral sedation and local anesthetic and results in substantial skin tightening for patients. The procedure is usually done over the course of 2-3 hours in the oﬃce, and the patient is discharged home shortly after. Essentially there is little to no downtime, and you could have this procedure done on a Friday and be completely ﬁne to go to work on Monday. The postoperative recovery is extremely mild with a little tenderness and maybe some mild bruising (but otherwise that is the extent of what to expect). Results begin to become evident sometimes within 2 to 4 weeks but really peak results are approximately 3 to 5 months after the procedure is complete. This is because the subdermal heating that takes place during the procedure results in Neocollagenesis and new

formation of elastin which ultimately leads to skin tightening. By using Thermitight technology and approaching this problem in the subdermal plane, we are able to heat the collagen resulting in denaturation of protein and the subsequent new collagen formation. A common misconception is that similar results can be accomplished by superficial technologies that sit on top of the skin only. False: The energy in modalities like this are simply not hot enough to enact permanent change in the underlying structures to tighten skin permanently without negatively affecting the superficial skin. With Thermitight, the vast majority of patients will see dramatic improvement after this procedure is complete. The benefits of this procedure are known to last 5 or more years and we estimate possibly up to 10 years. It is generally a one-anddone procedure and not something you have to maintain. Patients can expect to see substantial lift in their breasts overall that results in a very natural-looking enhancement. This technology is amazing; however, it is not for everybody. It still has some limitations to the extent that it can lift the breast. We like to see all of our patients prior to having this procedure done to evaluate them and tell them whether they are a good candidate for this procedure. We are very open and honest with the patients who are not candidates and refer them to a plastic surgeon for more aggressive enhancement. However, most patients who need mild-tomoderate breast lifting will be excellent candidates for this procedure. By and large, it is much more affordable than its surgical counterpart--resulting in less risk and downtime with completely naturallooking results that are long lasting. Please give us a call today if you would like to find out if you are a candidate for this cutting-edge, non-invasive procedure to enhance and lift the look of your breast tissue.

WWW.CAROLINAAGEMANAGEMENT.COM

BEFORE AFTER 1 month beginning to see results

704.997.6530 8712 Lindholm Drive, Suite 302 Huntersville, NC 28078

Dr. Stephen Giordano

Seasonal allergies can take some of the fun out of just being a kid. If your child suffers from allergies year after year, it’s tempting to try over-the-counter remedies that may help ease symptoms, but can leave your child groggy or drowsy. Our board-certified allergists can test to discover exactly what your child is allergic to, create a customized treatment plan that in time can lessen the severity of her symptoms, and, in many cases, cure her allergies altogether! Call 704.372.7900 to schedule an appointment at our Lake Norman, Huntersville and Mooresville locations.

breathe » live » thrive | www.carolinaasthma.com

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{ H E R E she I S }

AN LKN WOMAN WHO PERSONIFIES WHAT MAKES LAKE NORMAN WOMEN SO GREAT

dana M A RT I N

H O M E TO W N : W I N S TO N - S A L E M L K N TO W N : C O R N E L I U S H O U S E H O L D : 2 C AT S , M O E A N D F U Z Z Y W U Z Z Y

How did you break through to ownership in a male-dominated industry? Dreaming of

i am an LKN oman because… “I have lived in Cornelius since 1989 and watched the area transform into what it is today. I love that anything you need or want is available right here at home.”

ownership, I worked at a boat dealership while in high school and through college. After moving to Cornelius, and working at a local marina, all my persistence and hard work paid off. I was eventually able to purchase my own powersports dealership. There are times when someone comes in expecting to talk to “my husband.” I just put on a big smile and proudly say that I am the owner.

What are some things you enjoy away from work? My grandmother taught me to crochet years

ago. Being a business owner, and married to the job, is stressful. For me, counting stitches is like prayer or meditation – it is very relaxing. I also have the beneﬁt of being able to make handmade gifts for the people I love and care about!

Who do you consider your role models to be?

I am so thankful for my parents and some people I have worked for … they all instilled in me a strong moral work ethic. Sometimes I need to take a step back from a situation to determine what the right course of action is, but I always try to follow that path.

What has helped push you through rough patches in life? I often refer back to two passages of

scripture when things seem troubling. One is the Lord’s Prayer. The second is Psalm 23—“Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil.” Those are some pretty strong and comforting words when you feel like your life is in turbulence. Dana Martin is the owner of Lake Norman Power Sports located at 19335 H M Junker Dr. in Cornelius. For more information call 704.896.6022 or visit www.LakeNormanPowerSports.com.

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By: Michelle Love | Photography By: Lisa Crates Photography

STOCK UP FOR FALL & WINTER with the prices you like and the brands they love!

WE BUY & SELL

HALLOWEEN COSTUMES

$5 off purchase of $25 or more *Not valid with any other offer or promotion. Expires 11/30/17

HUNTERSVILLE

10035 Biddick Lane • 704-237-4441 childrensorchard.com • find us onxx

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INGREDIENTS

1 can (1 lb.) pumpkin 2 cups ﬂour 2 cups sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon nutmeg 3/4 cup butter, softened 2 eggs, lightly beaten 1⁄2 cup walnuts (optional) TO PREPARE

IN THE

kitchen

y s a E

pumpkin bread Fall is in the air, so now all you need is the wonderful smell of the sweet autumn spices you’ll ﬁnd in this easy pumpkin bread recipe. It’s easy to prepare, takes about an hour to bake, and is sure to please family and friends alike.

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Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In a separate bowl, using an electric or hand mixer if desired, mix the sugar and butter, then add one egg at a time, beating mixture until fluffy. Mix in the pumpkin. Combine the flour mixture with the pumpkin mixture, but do not mix too thoroughly. Stir in the walnuts, if desired. Pour mixture into a coated 9x5x3 loaf pan and bake for 50 to 60 minutes until cake tester comes out clean. You can also use a muffin pan (bake 20 to 25 minutes). Let loaf cool for about 10 minutes, then turn out onto cooling rack. Enjoy!

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but sometimes if “your heart isn’t in it,” your home can lose its feng shui … and that can affect our mental attitude which, in turn, affects us physically. If you’re in recovery from an illness or just wanting to create a cozy, comforting space, remember that our surroundings not only reﬂect our lives, but aid in healing the mind, body, and soul. And with the holidays upon us, there is even more reason to perk up the palace! If you’re on a budget like most of us, even the smallest touches can transform your house into a healing haven and a place you can truly call home.

H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S

right at

HOME

Fixing Your

FENG SHUI

and Your

HEALTH! By: Stephanie Nieuwendijk-Bramble

Additionally, use candles and other items to create your own inexpensive table arrangements. Start

digging through those cupboards. You’ll be surprised what you can use! Place together a collection of bowls or vases, then pick up a couple of bunches of flowers. Make things more seasonal with gourds and mini pumpkins, or fruit such as pomegranates or

Know your boundaries with rugs. Furniture can go all on, all off, or front on – meaning only the front feet of your seating pieces rest on the rug. Choose the star of your show, and make that piece or area the focal point of your space. Place accessories in odd numbers; threes and fives are more pleasing to the eye than even numbers. Don’t rely solely on overhead lamps or chandeliers. Layer your lighting with table lamps and lamps other ambient lighting. Stay away from overcrowding a room with too many pieces. Hang pictures and artwork so they’re within anyone’s sight line (Hint: the average human eye level is 57 inches)

pears. If you are lucky enough to have a garden, there are all kinds of natural stems, berries, and acorns at your fingertips. Seasonal toss pillows and throws will add an instant cozy feel to any couch or sitting area. If this

is the year to renew what’s old before friends and family arrive, try starting with some new accessories. Items such

as rugs, lamps, throws, and accent pillows can make a huge impact. If bigger things are on the list, look at a new dining table and chairs or that sink-into-sofa with chair and ottoman that you can curl up on. The possibilities are endless so just use your imagination and remember— fixing your feng shui is fun and a prerequisite to happy, healthy living!

Stephanie Nieuwendijk-Bramble is the owner and creative designer at Dutchmans Casual Living Stores, 19441 Old Jetton Road in Cornelius. You may contact them at 704.896.0007 or at www.dutchmansdesigns.com.

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health

What Exactly Are Dental Implants? By: Kariann Ellis

Dental implants are becoming the most sought-after dental treatment. It won’t be long before they become the most preferred alternative to crowns, bridges, and removable dentures. Denver Dental Arts offers two types of implants: single tooth and an implant retained denture. A single tooth implant is a procedure in which an implant is surgically placed into the jawbone and gum where a missing or originally damaged tooth was located. An implant retained denture is a solution for patients who have lost all of their teeth on one or both arches of the mouth. They are dentures that are secured to implants attached directly to the jawbone.

Kariann Ellis is the business manager at Denver Dental Arts, 7206 Austin Smiles Court, Suite 103, in Denver. Call them at 704.951.8272 or visit www.DenverNCDentalArts.com.

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An implant looks like a cylinder or screw and functions as the root of the missing tooth. They are made of titanium or other material that won’t cause an adverse reaction when placed. They offer a number of advantages over traditional treatment. First, they are the most permanent solution since they attach directly to the jawbone. If a patient maintains optimal oral hygiene by twice-per-day brushing (and flossing daily as well) and is seen for regular cleanings twice a year, dental implants can last a lifetime. By comparison, a crown or bridge may only last 10-15 years before normal wear and tear require the tooth to be replaced. This also makes dental implants the most cost-effective solution.

Dental implants also help to prevent and minimize bone loss. They help to distribute chewing forces to the jawbones which helps to maintain your bone and facial structure. Without teeth, your bone may resorb, resulting in your teeth moving and possible loss of your facial structure. Additionally, dental implants assist in preserving the surrounding teeth. When an implant replaces a missing tooth, the adjacent teeth are not damaged. By comparison, with a conventional bridge, the neighboring teeth must be ground down to support the bridge. Dental implants also allow you to bite naturally, eat anything you want, and brush normally. And they do not interfere with smiling or speaking. In contrast, removable dentures can affect how you smile and speak, restrict the food choices you’re able to eat, can be uncomfortable or even painful, and need to be removed for cleaning. Furthermore, since dental implants are fixed in place, they won’t move or shift the same way dentures might, saving you from embarrassment and giving you the confidence in your smile that you have always wanted.

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family

OCTOBER IS ADHD AWARENESS MONTH

SIGNS

Your Child May Have

ADHD

ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER

can be very difﬁcult to diagnose—after all, the symptoms are often indicative of normal childhood behavior. However, if a child shows six or more of the symptoms outlined by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), and they show these signs for more than six months in various settings, you may have an ofﬁcial diagnosis on your hands.

According to AAP, “a doctor will give your child a physical exam, take a medical history, and may even give him/her a noninvasive brain scan … the condition may be diagnosed in children ages 4 to 18.” Here are some signs of childhood ADHD—consult your physician if your child exhibits any of the following in an unusual, harmful, or extreme way:

Constantly moving/squirmy and ﬁdgety

Does not listen or focus well

Trouble playing or sitting quietly

Talks excessively and repetitively

Interrupts or intrudes on others’ personal space inappropriately

Is easily distracted

Does not ﬁnish tasks

For more information on ADHD in children, visit www.aap.org.

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OCTOBER 2017 |

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I NTE R T W IN ED paths TO success

of More Than Faces, a medical spa in Cornelius, Dr. Vickie Lovin and Denise Curtis, PA, have crossed paths several times before becoming business partners. Bill Gates once said, “Our success has really been based on partnerships from the very beginning.” This fortuitous and successful partnership has developed over the years for these two women who have followed their own paths, but inevitably their journeys intertwine. O-OWNERS

Dr. Lovin, originally from Andrews, North Carolina, earned her medical degree from the former Bowman Gray School of Medicine (now Wake Forest University Medical School), completing her residency in OB-GYN. Denise Curtis is a physician assistant who earned her degree from Wake Forest University in 1987. The parallels continued as the women worked together for several years at Catawba OB-GYN. Then, in 1996, Vickie opened A Woman’s View, a gynecology practice in Hickory. Two years later, Denise followed suit, and the two women were working side-by-side once again. After high school, Vickie married her high school sweetheart, John, and they had a daughter, Bonnie. John was Mr. Mom for many years while Vickie grew her practice. Sadly, John died suddenly in

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Dr. Vickie Lovin (right) & Denise Curtis, PA MORE THAN FACES MEDICAL SPA CORNELIUS, NC

2009. “I would be lost if it weren’t for my faith,” she says. Admitting that at times it was consuming, Vickie’s passion in life has always been her work. However, now that she has two grandchildren and a new husband, Ron Trammel, she says, “I realize that it is time to slow down and enjoy my blessings.” Escaping the fastpaced routine, Vickie and Ron appreciate a long visit to their favorite island in Hawaii every year. Denise has been married to her high school sweetheart, Scott, for more than 30 years. Making the move from Hickory to Lake Norman, Denise smiles, “Scott and I fell in love with the quaintness of Davidson.” Traveling as often as possible, the British Virgin Islands are on the top of their favorite destination list. Denise affirms, “The serenity of boating and being on the water is so soothing and a great stress release.”

After several years of working with Dr. Lovin, Denise’s passion turned towards cosmetic medicine, and she ventured to pursue this new path. Reconnecting years later, the women decided to start a new journey together—More Than Faces allows Vickie and Denise to continue to be passionate about helping other women look and feel their best. “My strongest motivation is happy patients who have been given the best possible results,” Denise says. Vickie enjoys being able to educate women about their health and believes in a team approach to work, life, and medicine. Believing that true success is accomplished by working as a team, Vickie recites one of her favorite quotes: “There is no limit to what a man can do or where he can go if he does not mind who gets the credit.”

By: Michelle Love | Photography By: Lisa Crates Photography

The Goddard School® uses its play-based F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) to introduce STEAM concepts (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) to help children develop a strong foundation for their future education and a passion for STEAM learning.

Enroll today!

ENROLL TODAY! CORNELIUS • 704-894-0454 HUNTERSVILLE • 704-489-3893 MOORESVILLE • 704-663-5006 GoddardSchool.com The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc. Programs and ages may vary. HHHHH denotes a five star school in North Carolina. South Carolina schools are not rated by this system. Goddard Systems, Inc. program is AdvancED accredited. © Goddard Systems, Inc. 2017

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MIND body spirit BETTER ME

…

BETTER YOU

…

BETTER WORLD

YOUR

DOG, YOUR

By: Dr. Derick Lengemann

HEALTH

W H E N YO U A R E F E E L I N G

down in life, there are few things more comforting than having your dog lie next to you, with his/her head in your lap. If you are a dog owner, you realize there is an emotional connection that allows you to make that dog your confidant—the only one who really “gets you.” Time magazine recently dedicated an entire issue titled, “Animals & Your Health,” which explored the impact pets can have on our lives and overall wellbeing. “Our history with pets,” says the article, “goes a long way back. While it may not always be the happiest of tales, one thing is clear— we need one another … we now have come to view animals as healers … they help us grow socially, emotionally and spiritually.” Traditional examples of remarkable service dogs include mobility assistance

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dogs, seizure alert service dogs, or guide dogs for the blind. Recently there have been studies showing that dogs may be better than blood tests in diagnosing some early cancers in patients. The benefit of companion dogs with people suffering from PTSD or other mental disorders has also been documented. Prisons have even implemented successful programs in which rescue dogs are fostered by inmates, allowing them to experience unconditional love while learning responsibility and lifecoping strategies. It has been scientifically proven that interacting with dogs releases the hormones oxytocin and dopamine at higher levels in the blood stream. These hormones are labeled as the “happy chemicals” in the blood. At the same

time, interactions with dogs decrease the stress hormone cortisol. In addition to these positive hormonal influences, your pup may also be your best fitness trainer, reminding you daily to take that run you were planning to skip, or encouraging you to walk to the park where you may meet a new friend. These tail-wagging incentives inevitably lead to a healthier lifestyle. Science often confirms what we already know—dogs are amazing animals that simplify and improve our bodies, minds, and souls. I have had the opportunity to work with some of the finest animals and their owners, witnessing first-hand the remarkable benefits of many wonderful service dogs, and the positive influence of companion dogs helping their owners go through some very difficult times. The beauty of the bond with our dogs is that there is a mutual love for each other, helping and caring for one another. They share in our joys and sorrows, reciprocating the unconditional love we have for them. Dr. Derick Lengemann and the rest of the Lakewood Veterinary Hospital staff may be reached by calling 704.662.6077 or by visiting www.lakewoodvets.com. They are located at 813 Williamson Road in Mooresville.

THE MIND, BODY, AND SPIRIT ARE INTIMATELY CONNECTED. Because unhealthy thoughts and emotions can create a vicious cycle that leads to unhealthy physical patterns, we can choose a victorious path that includes a positive, healing, uplifting spiral. By mixing the ingredients of attitude and action, we can change the ﬂavor of our own lives. Learn to nurture your body and soul to lead a more balanced life.

OCTOBER 2017 |

LKN

OCTOBER 2017 |

LKN

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200E North Harbor Place • Davidson | 702B Brawley School Road • Mooresville | 6100 Fairview Road • Charlotte Primary Residential Mortgage, Inc., DBA Element Funding, NMLS #3094. PRMI is an Equal Housing Lender. Some products and services may not be available in all states. Credit and collateral are subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change and are subject to borrower(s) qualification. This is not a commitment to lend. North Carolina Commissioner of Banks L-112833. South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs MLS3094, As Element Funding MLS-3094 OTN#1. Jared Krewson NMLS# 1071768, Michael Frazier NMLS# 22526, Laura Lail NMLS# 570231, Brad Roche NMLS# 135191, Glen Chavis NMLS# 993247, Leigh Kugler NMLS# 41392, Tommy Bush NMLS# 108137, Lydia Pyatt NMLS# 796897