Lake Cumberland Compass, November 2024 by LCCompass

Grateful…

When I first had the idea to create this publication, I couldn’t have envisioned working on even the first issue, let alone the fifth. Yet here we are! November is our fifth issue of Lake Cumberland Compass! I am so very grateful to all of you for supporting this venture.

I am listening to what you are telling me. And I am listening to what my heart has been telling me, and that is to create a SECOND title, one dedicated solely to the creative spirit of our community. I promise to spill the tea on that a bit later. For now, we gathered up a bunch of really interesting and completely unrelated content and turned it into another magazine!

Volume 1, Issue 5 November 2024

—EDITOR / DESIGNER— Lisa Rowell

—ADVERTISING SALES— info@LCCompass.com

—CONTRIBUTORS—

• Tyler Adams

• Eli Parker

• Ashley Hoseclaw, RN

• Jessica Nava, Pulaski Co. Public Library

I am giving fair warning for anyone who shivers at the thought of slithering things: there is a photo of a SNAKE sprawled across pages 10-11. I did not place this snake in the magazine for the shock value. I placed it there because of the sheer fascination of being able to see it close up, while reading what Tyler Adams wrote about it. It took more than one go-around to figure out where that account of nature belonged in our November issue. Surely not near pictures of Santa! And so it follows our cover story, about Jeff Salter realizing every writer’s dream of becoming a published novelist. We take a look at the very serious topics of detecting lung cancer, diabetes awareness with LCDHD, and the role of the hospice nurse. We look at some fun things to do in our region for the holidays, what’s happening at the local library branches, and learn tips for feeding premature babies thanks to Ashley Hoseclaw. If you like reading about different topics, you might enjoy this issue — snakes and all. As always, we appreciate your feedback, and we appreciate YOU!

• Lake Cumberland District Health Department

Lake Cumberland Compass is an independently published periodical in Somerset, Kentucky, by Compass Communications, LLC. Content is for entertainment purposes only. Print copies are distributed throughout Pulaski County. Digital flip books are available for free at LCCompass.com.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored for retrieval by any means without written permission by the publisher. The publisher is not responsible for unsolicited materials and accepts no responsibility for the contents or accuracy of claims in any advertisement. Lake Cumberland Compass is not responsible or liable for any errors or omissions and reserves the right to refuse or reject any submitted content. The opinions of contributing writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher.

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Format: Online ISSN 2998-3576

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Cover Photo of Jeff Salter by Lisa Rowell

Member: SomersetPulaski Chamber of Commerce

Tyler Adams peers under a pile of fallen leaves, and up high in the trees, to show us what he and his camera discover. (Trigger warning: there’s a snake!)

We talk with local hospice nurses about the very special work they do for us in our final days.

DRUMMING ROLL

By Jeffrey L. Salter

I heard in the distance a tat-er-rat-tat, a titillating tinkle of drum, so I promptly stopped my tiresome toil and ran to where it was from.

Then my mind said “Stop!” so I suddenly ceased and, putting a thumb to my breast, I cocked my head with a questioning, “Me?” and the tittering tune tinkled “Yes!”

I saw the tall drummer waving his arms and the tympany bidding me “Come.” I felt myself fall into the stride as he tapped his tat-er-rat drum.

His jaunty step was drumming the road that’s not on a regular map; then he turned with a tap and I saw my own face behind his chin-sweaty strap. He waved and smiled a drumming roll and at last I was able to see that behind that tat-tat-er-rat-tat drum was tat-tat-er-rat-tat me.

–Oct. 8, 1969

WNOVEL IDEAS

ith three decades of work as a public library administrator, multiple writing awards, hundreds of published pieces, including poetry and a boatload of published fiction titles, and a curriculum vitae that goes on for days, local author Jeff Salter’s credentials show he has learned more than a thing or two about writing and publishing.

I am just a meager writer who mostly pens pieces for fun. How could I possibly swim through the rivers of information and minute details that could fill these pages ten times over, and tell a story of this man’s work as an author in 1,000 words or less without disappointing? I am not going

to even attempt to highlight all of Jeff’s accomplishments or his colorful career. What I would like to do is illustrate what can be accomplished with the right amount of determination, passion, faith, and perhaps even a touch of angst to fuel the creativity.

Uprooting to reroot

We all have our ways of coping with inner stress and anxiety. For Jeff, that would manifest as a creative burst in the space between living and working in Louisiana, and retiring and moving to Kentucky in 2006.

Jeff said he felt a divine instruction in 2005 to move from Louisiana to Kentucky so his wife, Denise, could

Story and photos by Lisa Rowell

spend time with her elderly parents. Anyone who has uprooted a career and household and moved to another state will understand this would be a lot easier said than done for Jeff and his family. He took an early retirement from his 30-year career and while juggling the logistics of such a move, stayed behind for several months to work on and sell their house, while Denise and his mother moved to Kentucky to wait for him.

A certain uncertainty

“I was stressed about leaving my career of 30 years and moving to a place where I knew nobody except my in-laws,” Jeff recalled. “I began having cold feet about those two largest issues – retiring early and relocating – and began to doubt whether the instruction I believed had come from the Lord would, in fact, turn out to be a massive misunderstanding.”

Despite the pressures and stresses, Jeff said, “I kept reminding myself that I must be obedient to that CALL… even if I couldn’t see beyond those first few steps.”

It was during this brief time that Jeff wrote 175 poems. “It was the biggest burst of creativity I’ve had in my entire life,” he said.

“I sometimes think about, ‘what is the wellspring of creativity?’ and I think a lot of it comes from stress,” Jeff said with a knowing, nervous laugh.

As any creative will tell you, trying to silence the inspiration urging you to CREATE, is to risk it permanently leaving you. As a creative, that’s a risk often not worth taking so we’ll spend sleepless nights at the keyboard, or with a paintbrush or pen in hand. What flows is something that defies any credentials or formal education or

Have you heard of NaNoWriMo?

NaNoWriMo is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides tools, structure, community, and encouragement to help people find their voices, achieve creative goals, and build new worlds — on and off the page.

National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) began in 1999 as

boundaries we imagine define us. Whether we deem our creation worthy of sharing or not, we’ve allowed ourselves to release that energy and perhaps in the process, solved a problem, learned a little more about our inner selves, or felt a stronger connection to God. It’s not always an easy concept to convey through words.

Heeding the inner call

For Jeff, he thought he’d be staying in the local library arena once he’d moved to Kentucky. His background afforded him opportunities for writing book reviews and he had connections. “Part of me was screaming to tell long fiction stories,” Jeff said, even though most of his work had been through poetry. So, in his first year of living in Kentucky, he did just that, writing the better

a daunting but straightforward challenge: to write 50,000 words of a novel in thirty days. Now, each year on November 1, people around the world begin to write, determined to end the month with a first draft. They enter the month as elementary school teachers, mechanics, or stay-at-home parents. They leave novelists.

Valuing enthusiasm, determination, and a deadline, NaNoWriMo is for anyone who has ever thought about writing a novel.

NaNoWriMo believes stories matter, and they’re there to help you write yours.

To learn more, visit nanowrimo.org

part of three novels. He said he wrote and rewrote the first one several times and it has yet to “see the light of day.” The second and third were eventually published, however, it was the seventh one he had written that would be his first to be published.

“I spent two years combing the writing scene for an agent,” Jeff said, of the quest to get published.

In 2006-07, opportunities like Amazon self-publishing were not mainstream yet. If writers were to ever see their books in print or in bookstores, they required an agent. After two years of trying to find a reliable agent, many small presses had opened, eliminating the “gate keepers.” Only a fraction of a percent of manuscripts get accepted by agents, and even less of those actually get published by a recognizable imprint.

In the meantime, Jeff spent time submitting his writing to various contests which proved futile with

conflicting judges’ comments which Jeff found to be subjective at best. The months of waiting added to the futility.

Jeff joined many writing organizations and made many contacts before being led to a small independent digital press called Astraea (which is now Clean Reads). Formed in 2010, and making many dreams come true for writers struggling to become published, Astraea — after many edits — would eventually publish the seventh novel Jeff had written.

“Going through that cycle of content edits, line edits, proofing with three different members of the editorial team — which could take weeks to get back to you without a single word — you had to just sit on tenderhooks, not knowing when the thing was going to come back and with what kinds of red lines or track changes.”

Jeff said writers really need to trust their editors. He recalled one who

recommended he cut 20,000 words from a piece. Although it felt painful at the time, In the long run, he said he didn’t even remember what those cuts pertained to. Astraea encouraged Jeff to have more than one novel out and he said within six to eight weeks, they quickly ran out his second published novel. Then his third. Jeff said his biggest sales have come through that imprint. The novel most dear to his heart is “Called to Arms Again — A Tribute to the Greatest Generation” which is that seventh novel he wrote just after coming to Kentucky, and the first to be published.

It goes to show how steadfast determination can pay off.

Jeff has 23 published fiction titles and several nonfiction books. He’s on his third publisher. You can purchase his books through Amazon by searching J.L. Salter or visit http:// tinyurl.com/AuthorJeff n

To purchase Salter’s books online, use this QR code or search Amazon for J. L. Salter.

cloth wrapped around their union was spun from a heritage of turmoil engulfing Georgia and Kentucky in the decades following the Civil War… Get notified when the novel is released. Email: ToEachThe OtherSent@ gmail.com

BEFORE

Fall SLIPS AWAY

Story and photos by

Tyler Adams

ou could spend a lifetime trying to find all of the critters and creatures around our forests. From the leaf litter to high up in the trees, there’s pretty much no blank spaces on the beautiful and diverse palette that exists from our backyard to the woods out back. I’ve seen my fair share of pretty interesting creatures and found it important to take a few moments to come back home and study a picture to really get to know some of them! Let’s take a short dive into some of these creatures and what they’re all about.

This first creature, pictured below, is an Oak Treehopper (Platycotis vittata). This gnarly looking little bug features tons of color and some odd appendages! That giant horn on its head is most definitely for looks, but the bright colors are for helping it fend off predators as it protects its babies. A lot of insects don’t get involved in parental care, so that’s pretty unique. They’re super small, so finding one will mean that much more since they’re about the size of a pencil eraser’s width!

The second creature, pictured on the opposite page, is a little bit bigger, but not by much. It is an Eastern Red-Spotted Newt (Notophthalmus viridescens). This newt is probably a familiar friend if you go out hiking often or are around moist areas with decaying logs. That’s where they love to live. Oftentimes I’ll find these in leaf litter just off the trail as well. These little guys are in their juvenile stage when they look like this, and will eventually get a bit darker in color and their tail will take on more of a fin shape. That’s when they’ll return to and stay to live in the water too. That transition calls for a lot of energy; these newts are known to consume around 35,000 calories per year in snails, beetles and ants. Small numbers I say, but in the newt world that’s a feast!

Oak Treehopper

The third and final creature I’d like to talk about is one that needs to come with a content warning (sorry Granny) but one of my favorite things to see while out! This is our common watersnake pictured above. These are such beautiful and harmless nonvenomous snakes that are typically mistaken for the venomous cottonmouth. You can easily discern between the two by looking for the common watersnake’s more slender body, round pupils and the lack of pits on it’s face. However, if you’re close enough to see it’s face you may just need to remove yourself from that position!

Appreciating these things, from the super small and seemingly insignificant bugs to the scaly, approach-with-caution snakes is such a world filled with mystery just waiting to be solved. I’ve always known we have some bugs, “salamanders,” and snakes, but getting down to exactly what they are and the part they play in our vital ecosystems has been so fun and exciting to discover every time. Take a second and kneel down while you’re hiking the next time and try to find an Oak Treehopper on a branch, or maybe try to spot a couple newts in some leaf litter if we have a warm day in November! Whatever you uncover, take a mental picture or otherwise and come home and get down to exactly what it is you saw. You never know what’s out there until you look! n

Watersnake

UNDERSTANDING LUNG CANCER with Nathan Bennett

Story By Eli Parker

Breathing is essential in our everyday lives. Even without thinking, our bodies instinctively make us breathe in oxygen to convert into energy while also releasing the waste gas that is carbon dioxide. However, there’s a disease that continues to put this basic necessity at risk — lung cancer.

Through a rapid growth of cells within the lungs, this disease causes damage to healthy lung tissue, which is needed for proper breathing. According to the Kentucky Department for Public Health’s Lung Cancer Program, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths for both men and women and is the third most common cancer in the state. In 2020, 4,572 diagnoses in Kentucky alone were documented in the KY Cancer Registry.

Nonetheless, the fight against lung cancer continues to be an ongoing battle. Active in these efforts is

Nathan Bennett, FACHE, CPPS, RT (R), (CT); who serves as the Senior Director of Imaging Services at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital. From his extensive career, Bennett has learned that the best means of combating this disease is by either avoiding risk factors in the first place or catching signs as early as possible.

“My stepmother’s life was saved by this scan about fifteen years ago.”

“Of course, the primary driver of lung cancer is smoking,” Bennett stated, as smoking accounts for 8090 percent of lung cancer deaths in the United States. This is very much prominent for Kentucky, as it lies in the “Tobacco Nation” of the country where percentages of smoking are at their highest. Records also show that Kentucky was historically the first in the nation for adult smoking.

The second leading cause is exposure to radon – a harmful

gas that naturally comes up from the ground. This typically takes place in basements or homes that are built lower into the ground. It’s recommended for homeowners in these circumstances to invest in radon mitigation systems that pull the gas away from the floors and exhausts it outside.

Other risk factors include exposure to secondhand smoke or to air pollution, particularly from vehicle exhaust, coal-fired power plants, and other industrial sources.

Of course, it’s highly recommended to avoid these health risks in the first place. However, for those that find themselves regularly exposed to these risk factors, the next step is to get tested as soon as possible through the nonlethal examining procedure that is a CT scan. If affording to do

so is a worry, insurance companies typically cover annual screenings if a patient meets the right requirements.

Bennett not only recommends getting screened early from a professional standpoint, but from his own life experience with a family member. “My stepmother’s life was saved by this scan about fifteen years ago,” he said. “She went out with my dad and he was getting his screening. She decided to get a screening just because she was there, even though she had been smoking less at that time. Dad was fine, but her results came back with a really small nodule that was a lung cancer in her right lower lobe. She had surgery, and fifteen years later, she’s okay.”

When caught in the early stages (Stages 1 and 2), the means of treatment and their efficiency are much greater. “The data’s already showing, very clearly, if you catch it in Stages 1 or 2, you have a completely different outlook on resolving the problem,” Bennett adds. With an early diagnosis and treatment, cure rates can be as high as 80-90 percent.

Once diagnosed, a biopsy examination will determine the best means of treatment, whether it be surgery, radiation treatment, or chemotherapy. No matter the procedure, the end results often look

promising for those that recover from these treatments.

“The good thing about your lungs is that there’s two of them,” Bennett explains. “Within each one of those two lungs, you have a couple of lobes, so, a lot of times, they can take a

“The good thing about your lungs is that there’s two of them.”

lobe out of a lung and you will get to keep the rest of that lung and the other full one too. Some people can remove an entire side of a lung and you still have a whole other lung. People can live just fine with one lung.”

“The lungs are a very regenerative organ,” he adds. “If given time, a lot of them can actually revert to close to those of a nonsmoker, but it’s all about quitting smoking early or not smoking at all.”

However, when a patient reaches the later stages of lung cancer (Stages

Nathan Bennett, FACHE, CPPS, RT, Senior Director of Imaging Services at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital, demonstrates the CT256 scanner. (Submitted photo)

3 and 4), it becomes more about life extension. From Bennett’s point of view, when patients start uncovering symptoms, it often means they’re past the point of being cured. “It’s not saying you can’t be cured or you can’t be treated,” Bennett adds, “but it’s a harder battle to fight than when you’re in Stages 1 or 2.”

These symptoms include shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, and continuous habits of coughing, sometimes to the point of coughing up blood. There are also cases of those that show no symptoms,

CT256 scanner at LCRH. (Submitted photo)

further emphasizing the importance of early screening.

Despite the continuing gloom brought by lung cancer, recent years have shown that the fight against it grows resilient and effective. In 2023, the American Lung Association reported that Kentucky was ranked the second in the nation for lung cancer screenings. Throughout these efforts, it’s always been about educating the public and getting them connected to the resources they need. n

Join Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital at 305 Langdon St., Somerset, Ky., for National Lung Cancer Screening Day on Saturday, November 9, from 8 a.m. to 12 noon. Enter through the main lobby of the hospital by the registration desk. Refreshments will be available, and educational information will be provided by the Kentucky Cancer Program to help spread knowledge on lung cancer prevention and early detection. Early detection saves lives, and we’re making screenings more accessible to those who can’t schedule them during the week. To schedule your screening, call (606) 451-3787. You must have an established primary care provider or pulmonologist. If you need a provider, call (800) 424-DOCS.

LUNG CANCER AND SMOKING: UNDERSTANDING THE RISKS

Submitted by Lake Cumberland District Health Department

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death for both men and women in the United States. One of the biggest risk factors for developing lung cancer is smoking. Understanding the connection between smoking and lung cancer is crucial for making healthier choices and saving lives.

children and pregnant women.

Smoking is harmful to almost every part of the body, but it has a particularly devastating effect on the lungs. When a person smokes, they inhale a mixture of toxic chemicals, including tar, nicotine, and carbon monoxide. These substances can damage the lungs over time, leading to chronic diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer. About 85 percent of lung cancer cases are linked to smoking.

“ Quitting smoking is the best way to reduce the risk of lung cancer ”

Education plays a critical role in preventing lung cancer and encouraging healthier habits. Schools, health organizations, and communities can work together to promote awareness about the dangers of smoking and provide resources for quitting. By spreading knowledge and support, we can help reduce the number of people affected by lung cancer.

Quitting smoking is the best way to reduce the risk of lung cancer. The good news is that it’s never too late to quit. Research shows that people who stop smoking can greatly decrease their risk of developing lung cancer and other smoking-related diseases. Even a few weeks after quitting, lung function can start to improve, and the body begins to heal itself.

Additionally, it’s essential to understand the impact of secondhand smoke. Even if you don’t smoke, being around someone who does can still be harmful. Secondhand smoke contains many of the same toxic chemicals found in cigarettes and can lead to lung cancer and other health issues for non-smokers, especially

One important event that helps raise awareness about smoking and its dangers is the Great American Smokeout which takes place this year on November 21. This day encourages smokers to quit smoking for one full day, with the hope that they will continue to stay smoke-free. It’s a day filled with educational events, resources, and support for those trying to quit. Many organizations provide information on quitting strategies, like using nicotine replacement therapies and counseling. The Great American Smokeout also highlights the importance of community support and encouragement for those looking to make a change.

If you are ready to quit smoking, free help is available from Quit Now Kentucky. They have a free tobacco cessation program based on proven strategies that have helped more than 1.5 million people quit tobacco. You can call them at 1-800-QUIT-NOW (7848669) or go online at www. quitnowkentucky.org. Both are available seven days a week, 24 hours a day. n

THE OF A

Heart Hospice

NURSE

Story and photos by Lisa Rowell

Kim Huddleston, CNA, has been a hospice nurse for 15 years (with more than 21 year’s overall experience as a nurse). As part of Hospice of Lake Cumberland’s field staff, her work generally takes place in people’s homes.

Kim is one of many caring nurses employed by the organization which serves a seven-county area including Pulaski, Casey, Russell, Cumberland, Clinton, Wayne, and McCreary counties.

Based in Somerset, Hospice of Lake Cumberland provides services for people wherever they call home. That could mean a person’s or loved one’s house, an assisted living facility, a nursing home, or a hospital setting. “Wherever our patients call home is where we’ll meet them,” said Michelle Whitaker, volunteer coordinator.

Hospice is a service that comes to the patient, with a focus on physical, spiritual, social, and emotional needs, offering peace, comfort, and dignity in the face of life-limiting illness.

The one thing Hospice care is not, is giving up. It’s about making every moment count. That’s something Kim is very familiar with. “We do what’s best for the patient and the family. They are in charge of their care plan,” Kim said.

“ Wherever our patients call home is where we’ll meet them.”

–Michelle Whitaker, Hospice of Lake Cumberland Volunteer Coordinator

Kim said she and her fellow hospice employees and volunteers work very well as a team for the sake of the patient. This team includes the physician, the hospice medical director, nurses, social workers and counselors, chaplains, and hospice aides.

“It’s very holistic,” Michelle said. “We encompass all factors of life if that’s what the family wants.” Kim added that the care they provide for patients is regardless of culture, beliefs or age.

Michelle added, “We can’t affect the outcome but we can make a difference in the journey.”

As for Kim and her work with hospice, she said, “I feel like God’s put me here. It warms my heart to know that I have been able to help

someone in their last days and see them smile.”

During her home visits, Kim explained that no matter what the situation, she takes the time needed to be there for her patients. “It doesn’t matter if it takes an hour or two hours for that visit. Our main priority is taking care of that patient and making sure they’re comfortable.”

Kim said, “We want to help not just the patient, but the family members and give them support.” She and Michelle both said this could come in the form of bringing extra food, volunteers helping, a grocery store run, assisting with celebrations or outings, or a host of other tasks or creature comforts.

“There’s a lot more to our services than just pain medicine,” Kim explained, adding that they also provide supplies and every day needs such as mobility assistance items.

Michelle added that the community support they receive is a huge component in what they

are able to do for families. Hospice of Lake Cumberland has several fund raisers throughout the year, in addition to relying on donations (such as sheets and towels, unscented wipes, unopened supplies, or general care items), and help from their volunteers. There is also an Amazon wish list on the organization’s facebook page (facebook.com/@ hospicelc).

Michelle said anyone can make a referral to hospice. It doesn’t need to come only from a physician. Hospice care is available for all patients with a terminal illness, during the last six months of life or less, regardless of age. Each plan of care is tailored to the individual’s needs. Hospice care is about treating the person, not the condition.

What is palliative care?

Unlike hospice care, in which the condition is no longer being treated, palliative care tends to the needs of individuals who are receiving

curative treatment for their illness.

This care includes decreasing pain and increasing comfort through administering medication, advising therapies, and assisting patients while they manage their illness.

While palliative care is not intended to cure a specific illness, this type of care is focused on reducing pain, and relieving stress and anxiety. Patients in palliative care still receive their regular treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, or dialysis.

While palliative care falls under the umbrella of hospice care services, it is not hospice and can be administered on its own. One does

not need a terminal diagnosis to receive palliative care.

Jean Waddle Care Center

In addition to home care, those who choose hospice can receive care if they are in a nursing home or at the hospital. The Jean Waddle Care Center is comprised of eight

L-R: Charlotte Frei, RN; Amanda Noe, RN; Janet Collins, Unit Clerk; Lori Stephens, RN; and Lydia Moore, RN

Stepping off the elevator at the Jean Waddle Care Center, located on the fourth floor of Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital.

rooms on the fourth floor of Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital. The space is leased by Hospice of Lake Cumberland. The suites on the unit are comfortable and inviting. Staff is available 24/7, keeping patients and their families as comfortable as possible while providing round-theclock monitoring.

Upon first entering the Jean Waddle Care Center from the elevator, the wall of plants in memory of former patients sets the tone for the warmth of the entire unit. The hallways are adorned with donated paintings, quilts, and photographs. There is a family waiting area with all the comforts of home, including snacks. The rooms are designed for visitors and overnight stays. Within a few steps of each room, is the nurses station.

Amanda Noe, RN, is the charge nurse on the unit. Lydia Moore, RN, is the liaison between the unit and the hospital. They, along with their fellow nurses, hold vigil over those in their care, making sure their patients are as physically and emotionally comfortable as possible.

Similar to those in home care, patients in this special hospital setting may have been referred by a physician.

Lydia, who has been a hospice nurse for 30 years, has been with the unit from its inception. She said Jean Waddle was a former patient whose husband, Cy, made a donation to help start the unit at the hospital twelve years ago.

Amanda said they are very appreciative of the space to serve the community. She was a travel nurse prior to coming to the unit, along with her husband Aaron, who is a now a Lifeline home health nurse. She’s been with the hospice unit for six years.

“I’ve always wanted to do hospice care,” Amanda said. “I’ve been the charge nurse and managing the unit for two years now. My focus has been to train staff to really hone in on and understand that this is one of the most important times of our lives.

We cannot do this over. We’ve got to do it right the first time.”

Amanda said the nurses are often able to pick up on subtle cues from the patient and family members in order to help them process things that are happening. “The patients know when their families are suffering,” she said, adding that it’s not uncommon for a family to be with a patient for days on end, then for the patient to pass when the family takes a moment away from the room.

“Not everything is textbook or in our hands,” Amanda said about being able to gauge where a patient is at any given moment. For hospice nurses, it’s as much about caring for those family members as it is the patients. “If you have one patient with four family members, you have five patients.”

“If there’s nothing else that can be done to better their condition, and they need hospice care, they are entrusting us with their care.” Amanda added it’s both special and humbling to know someone has entrusted you with their family member’s care.

“We’re going to do everything we can to make their loved one comfortable. We’ll treat their physical pain. We’ll try to meet their

emotional needs, their spiritual needs. We’re also going to be there to support them. They are not going to be alone through this process. There is always something we can do.” Amanda said. She added that the role of hospice care is not to hasten death but to provide care and comfort during the transition.

The rooms are comfortable and quiet. The unit fosters a home environment where the family is welcomed to be together, including the family pets. “People can have quality time together,” Amanda said. “Even if the patient is unresponsive, the family can be together and talk about moments they’ve had with their loved one.”

Education is a big part of what hospice nurses do in helping the families understand what is physically happening to their loved one at any given moment and comforting them. “This is a part of life. This is how we’re designed.”

Amanda said they never rush loved ones or put time limits on them once a family member has passed on the unit. They take great care in honoring those moments. “This might be the last place they see their loved one.” n

More information: hospicelc.org.

The patient rooms at the Jean Waddle Care Center are designed for comfort and are welcoming to family and guests.

Nutty Nana’s

Now Open at the Somerset Mall

For anyone familiar with Nutty Nana’s former food truck, or their Liberty brick and mortar location, we have good news for you! The Somerset Mall is now home to the establishment’s second location!

T.J. Rayhill and his partner Andrew Beal have brought a unique experience to mall visitors with items made by Kentuckians, for Kentuckians. And it IS about the experience, not just the items you’ll find, or the tasty items you can purchase.

Winter offerings will include soups, salads, and sandwiches, or what T.J. calls “fast casuals,” in addition to beverages and homemade donuts.

“It’s a convenience factor for existing shoppers,” T.J. says of their new location at the mall.

The former school teachers found a passion while at Campbellsville University, offering desserts via a food truck. That’s where the brand

T.J. Rayhill puts some finishing touches on the new mall space for Nutty Nana’s. Mall shoppers can enjoy a break for a drink or lite meal, purchase freeze dried candies, and Kentucky-made products. Lisa Rowell photos

Nutty Nana’s — modeled after T.J.’s grandmother — originated.

T.J. said he had inquired about a kiosk space in the mall to sell freeze dried candy made by his and Andrew’s foster kids, and ended up with the storefront. You can find that yummy candy and many other goodies and treasures at their new location. Look for local artists’ work on the walls, too!

Nutty Nana’s Somerset Mall hours are Monday through Thursday, from 10 a.m. - 7p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; and Sunday from 1 - 5 p.m.

Watch for some exciting things that will be happening at Nutty Nana’s, including paint parties hosted by Andrew, and fun activities this Christmas season. It’s a great reason to give our Somerset Mall a visit! n

Experience Lake Cumberland During the Holidays

Find outdoor and indoor fall/winter activities for every age, all within 30 minutes of the capital of Lake Cumberland. From dazzling light displays, heart-pumping outdoor activities, and tasty treats, to specialized shopping experiences, and small-town charm, Pulaski County and surrounding areas offer endless fun during the holidays. Plan your next visit now.

Jingle Bell Run 5K at

Christmas Island

December 14, Burnside, Ky.

Walk or run this annual nighttime 5K through Christmas Island which lights up the second Saturday of December. Multiple awards, costume-friendly. Benefits Burnside youth programs.

Christmas Island

Open Seven Days a Week, Nov. 18 - Dec. 31, Burnside, Ky.

Enjoy multiple light displays, Vendor Village, concessions, and Santa photos. Proceeds benefit local nonprofits. Located on General Burnside Island State Park. The regional tradition from the late ‘90s was brought back permanently in 2021.

Go to www.visitburnside.com or follow Burnside Tourism on Facebook for more information. www.ticketsignup.io/TicketEvent/ChristmasIsland2024

The Polar Express Train Ride

Big South Fork Scenic Railway, Stearns, Ky.

Feel the true experience of Christmastime wonder. Wear your pajamas if you like! Guests are greeted by the friendly conductor presenting hot chocolate and a sweet treat. Over the course of the ride, visitors will listen to caroling and a reading of The Polar Express book by Chris Van Allsburg. The first half of the ride ends at the North Pole, where Santa enters the train.

Where to purchase tickets: https://runsignup.com/ Race/KY/Burnside/ChristmasIslandJingleBellRun

Book your journey at stearnsthepolarexpressride.com

Somerset-Pulaski Chamber of Commerce and Burnside Christmas Parades

Dec., 6, Burnside, Ky.

Dec. 7, Somerset, Ky.

Catch the major holiday cheer brought to the two towns during the first week of December. Catch both parades in one weekend! Burnside kicks off the weekend on Friday with free registration and small-town aesthetics as floats, unique vehicles, and horses stroll down Main Street.

Somerset ramps up the energy Saturday evening with elaborate float entries circulating downtown. Over 100 float participants each year compete for design and creativity prizes in line with rotating theming. The seemingly endless line of festive contestants makes for a magical evening of Christmas spirits.

Parade weekend is a must-see spectacle that tourists and locals alike can appreciate.

Information on the parades are provided on the following sites: visitburnside.com somersetpulaskichamber.com

Tiki’s

Winter Wonderland

SomerSplash Waterpark, Somerset, Ky.

Outdoor ice skating, concessions, vendor shopping, heated areas to stay warm.

Stay posted on the season’s schedule by visiting: facebook.com/somersplashwaterpark or somersplash.com/winter/

Heffelfinger Tree Farm

Somerset, Ky.

Pick your own live tree from different sizes and styles, and enjoy on-site seasonal activities such as wreath making, decor classes, concessions, hay rides, and a general store. Established in 2015, Heffelfinger Tree Farm is the go-to for fresh-cut Christmas trees.

Find out more at: facebook.com/ HeffelfingerTreeFarm

Bear Wallow Farm’s Christmas Fest

Nancy, Ky.

Full offerings, hours of operation, and ticketing information can be found at:

www.bearwallowfarms.com/christmas-farmfest

Kentucky Mercantile Christmas Market

Somerset, Ky.

Details for attending the Kentucky Mercantile Christmas Market can be found on social media.

facebook.com/kentuckymercantile

The Virginia Theater

Somerset, Ky.

Historic downtown theater in the heart of Somerset. Enjoy the magic of Christmas at The Virginia! See classic Christmas movies, live performances, or other special events seasonally. Order a drink, grab a seat, and enjoy the show.

thevirginiaky.com/

THE RETURN CLAUSE

A message from John Alexander So. Plot twist. I think that’s the term for it. Last year, I made a decision to end 17 years of being Santa Claus. I chronicled the entire Christmas Season in letters and I enjoyed putting pen to paper and describing what it is I experience in a given year as Santa Claus. It was my last year in the red suit. At least I thought it was.

In compiling that book of “Letters to Santa” and in hearing so many stories attached to so many pictures, the reality of my “retirement” began to set in. I started missing Santa and the thought of being done caused a sadness in me I hadn’t expected. When I decided to retire my holiday alter ego, I was in a bad place mentally. I was hurt and I was broken and I figured I needed to be alone as John Alexander for a very long time. I really just didn’t feel like I had any cheer left in me. My Christmas spirit was done.

But then something magical happened. On Christmas Eve of all nights. I found a renewed hope. A renewed friendship. A renewed love. Not just for someone else but also for myself. And so I was happy. Still am. So that made me regret a decision made based on heartache. I failed myself when I gave up something I loved so much so easily. I failed you all. I forgot how much faith you had in me. For that I am so very sorry.

So, in talking to Burnside Mayor Lawson and Burnside Tourism Director Jerrica Flynn, I found that they, too agreed it wasn’t time for me to hang up the red coat. Not by a long shot. And with that, I signed a three-year contract guaranteeing that as long as there is a Christmas Island and as long as there are families that still welcome me onto their mantles during the holidays, I will always be Santa Claus. Now. And Forever… n

John Alexander, feeling jolly with Jerrica Flynn and Robert Lawson in Burnside.

LONDON CHILDREN’S

Fostering a love of learning and exploration by providing a fun, interactive environment to discover the world!

MUSEUM HOURS:

Monday: Closed Tues., Wed., Thurs.: 10-2 Fri. & Sat.: 10-5 Sun.: 1-5

We welcome all class field trips, homeschool groups, and church groups!

Phone: 606-862-2121

100 Bacho Way Ste. 650, London, KY londonchildrensmuseum.com

UNDERSTANDING DIABETES: A CALL TO ACTION

Lake Cumberland District Health Department

Every November, people around the world come together for Diabetes Awareness Month to learn more about diabetes, share stories, and promote a better understanding of this chronic disease. But what exactly is diabetes, and why is it so crucial to raise awareness?

Diabetes is a condition that occurs when your body cannot properly use the food you eat. Normally, when we eat, our bodies convert food into glucose, which is a type of sugar. This sugar enters our blood-stream and provides energy for our cells. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps to move glucose from the blood into the cells. However, in people with diabetes, this process does not work correctly. This can lead to high levels of sugar in the blood, which can cause serious health problems over time.

There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes usually develops in children and young adults, and it occurs when the body doesn’t produce insulin at all. People with Type 1 diabetes need to take insulin daily to survive. On the other hand, Type 2 diabetes is more common and often develops in adults. It occurs when the body does not use insulin properly, which can sometimes be managed with lifestyle changes or medication.

Why is it important to raise awareness about diabetes? For one, the number of people diagnosed with diabetes is on the rise. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 37 million Americans have diabetes, and many do not even know they have it. Raising awareness helps people recognize the signs and symptoms, which can lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment. Common symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, extreme fatigue, and blurred vision.

During Diabetes Awareness Month, organizations and individuals focus on educating the public about diabetes. Schools, workplaces, and communities often host events to provide information, share resources, and promote healthier lifestyles. For example, health fairs might include free screenings for blood sugar levels, nutrition workshops, and discussions about the importance of physical activity.

One way to get involved is by participating in local events or simply sharing information online. Social media platforms are powerful tools for spreading awareness. Use the hashtags like #DiabetesAwarenessMonth to connect with others and share facts, personal stories, and tips for managing diabetes.

Another crucial aspect of Diabetes Awareness Month is the focus on prevention. While Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, Type 2 diabetes is often linked to lifestyle choices. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and staying active can significantly reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Schools can play a role by promoting physical activities and healthier food options in cafeterias.

Lake Cumberland District Health Department conducts diabetes classes in all ten counties in the district. These classes are designed to help individuals learn to manage their diabetes, eat healthy, and become more active. To sign up for a class, visit www.LCDHD.org/diabetes and complete the registration form. You may also call 800-928-4416, Option 4, to get more information and sign up. These classes are free to attend and free gifts are provided to attendees. n

LACTATION STATION

Breastfeeding Your Premature Baby

November is Prematurity

Awareness month and while breastfeeding is important for all newborns, it can be even more beneficial to a fragile, premature baby. A full-term pregnancy is 40 weeks. A baby is considered premature if born before the 37th week of pregnancy is completed.

Breastmilk is the perfectly matched nutrition for all neonates, though there are extra risks preemies face and breastmilk can increase their protection. Just as with any delivery, we want mothers to provide kangaroo, or skin-to-skin, care to their newborns in the first hour of life and beyond. This is a great way to assist in baby’s transition to extra uterine life by stabilizing the newborn’s heart rate, temperature, respirations, blood glucose, and more. This also allows baby the opportunity to lick and nuzzle and hopefully latch at the breast for the first time.

Mom and baby may need to be temporarily separated if baby requires extra medical attention. For example, one important concern with premature babies is their lung function. The lungs undergo a lot of development in the last weeks of pregnancy. A baby that is born early may need supplemental oxygen or other assistance.

Moms often feel scared and want to do what they can to help their baby. We can support her by teaching her how to hand express colostrum, assist her in using a breast pump to stimulate her breasts to begin producing milk, and also allow her and baby to be as close as possible. Infants receiving extra care may need to stay in the nursery. Getting mom and dad into the nursery to observe, touch, provide kangaroo care, assist

By Ashley D. Hoseclaw, MSN, RN, IBCLC

Perinatal Educator, Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital

Ashley.Hoseclaw@LPNT.net

in their care as they can, and just be near them can be comforting to parents and baby mutually.

Premature babies have been proven to be at higher risk for health problems such as necrotizing enterocolitis, or NEC, a gastrointestinal problem that can be fatal. Breastmilk has unique properties that help protect against NEC by establishing a healthy gut environment.

To look at other factors to consider with premature births, I connected with Elizabeth Garland, BSN, RN, CLC, Director of Women’s and Children’s Services at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital. Elizabeth was excited to share that as of September 2024, LCRH now offers donor milk to babies who are patients in our facility. The milk is purchased by the hospital from The Milk Bank, a nonprofit organization. The Milk Bank accepts donor milk from mothers who have been

carefully screened. The milk is pasteurized, frozen, and shipped to our facility where it can be used for babies who are in need of supplemental milk, at no cost to the family. This service is available to all newborn patients, not just premature babies. This can be very reassuring to a mother who wants to exclusively breastfeed but encounters a situation where her baby can benefit from donor milk as she establishes her milk supply. More information regarding The Milk Bank can be found at www.themilkbank.org.

When newborns face health challenges, parents can feel helpless to help meet their needs. Elizabeth pointed out that there is a respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine available to expectant mothers and babies. This virus, that affects the lungs, is common, but can be devastating in newborns. Premature newborns are especially vulnerable. Similar to the way other vaccines work, the RSV vaccine can help to prevent a baby from getting this virus or decrease the severity of the illness if baby does contract it. Expectant mothers can receive the vaccine between 32-36 weeks of pregnancy to provide protection to the baby. If mom did not receive

Elizabeth Garland, BSN, RN, CLC, Director of Women’s & Children’s Services, LCRH

the vaccine, baby can be vaccinated after delivery. If you have questions, please reach out to your obstetric and pediatric care providers.

Premature births cannot always be predicted or prevented, but the best way to protect yourself and your baby is to establish care prior to becoming pregnant and begin early prenatal care.

Premature births cannot always be predicted or prevented, but the best way to protect yourself and your baby is to establish care prior to becoming pregnant and begin early prenatal care. We are passionate about caring for our patients and we are excited about the services and opportunities available to our patients. The issues surrounding prematurity are varied and we have only discussed a few here. To become better informed on providing the best start for you and your baby please visit lakecumberlandhospital. com to sign up for a breastfeeding and prenatal class. n

November fall happenings at The Pulaski County Public Library

By Jessica Nava

Adult

Programming:

Come one, come all to our annual craft fair happening on November 16, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Explore a wide array of artisan gifts and handmade treasures, just in time for the holiday season and in addition to all our wonderful adult programs happening throughout the month.

Children’s Department: Hop on board the “drop your drawers campaign.” Beginning November 1 and ending December 31, bring unopened packages of new undergarments to the main library or branches to be taken to school family resource centers in the community. Dec 14 is our Breakfast with Santa event from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. And there’s so much

Drop your Drawers

more where that came from because happening next month is a sleigh load of festive fun you won’t want to miss! Stay tuned!

Teen Department: Teenagers will fall in love with the Fortnite tournament happening on Monday, November 4, with a $10 Gift card going to the winner! And join us on Thursday, November 7, for 3D printing activities and information. Each teen will be allowed to pick a model to be made for them and get answers to any related questions!

Shopville Branch: Will be having a casserole-themed lunch bunch on Tuesday, November 26 at noon to warm your bellies, and a Book Bunch that same day at 1 p.m., to warm your hearts. We will be discussing The Hearts of Horses, by Molly Gloss Copies of the book are ready for check out at the Shopville branch library.

Nancy Branch: On November 7 the main branch adult programmer will be teaching a painting class with a seasonal theme. Sign up by calling the Nancy branch library. The lunch group will be celebrating the season on November 21 at 1 p.m. with a warm meal and conversation. Enjoy Creative Circle every Friday at 1 p.m. and Nancy Book Club on the first Thursday at 11 a.m. Come join the fun!

Be sure to participate in the wide variety of activities at our Burnside, Bookmobile, and Science Hill branches as well. All happenings can be found on each of the branch’s and main department’s individual Facebook Pages. Or check them out all in one place through our monthly bookmark found on our website and in person at the main branch library. There’s something for everyone at Pulaski County Public Library. n

Lo que necesita saber sobre el colesterol

Mantenga el control para ayudar a prevenir enfermedades cardÌacas, ataques cardÌacos y accidentes cerebrovasculares

Family Features

Comprender y mejorar el colesterol es importante para personas de todas las edades, incluidos niños y adolescentes. Tener niveles saludables de colesterol puede ayudar a mantener su corazÛn saludable y reducir sus posibilidades de contraer una enfermedad cardÌaca o sufrir un accidente cerebrovascular.

El colesterol alto generalmente no presenta síntomas. De hecho, alrededor del 38% de los adultos en los Estados Unidos son diagnosticados con colesterol alto, según la American Heart Association. Comprender qué es el colesterol, el papel que desempeña, cuándo hacerse la prueba y cómo controlarlo son aspectos importantes para proteger su salud en general y prevenir un ataque cardía-co o un accidente cerebrovascular.

Comprender el colesterol

Se trata de una sustancia cerosa creada por el hígado o que se consume a partir de la carne, las aves y los productos lácteos, que no es intrínsecamente “mala” para usted. De hecho, su cuerpo lo nece-sita para construir células y producir vitaminas y otras hormonas. Sin embargo, demasiado coleste-rol circulando en la sangre puede representar un problema.

Los dos tipos de colesterol son la lipoproteína de baja densidad (LDL), que se considera “malo”, y la lipoproteína de alta densidad (HDL), que se puede

considerar como colesterol “bueno”. Dema-siado del tipo “malo”, o poco del “bueno”, aumenta el riesgo de que el colesterol se acumule lenta-mente en las paredes internas de las arterias que alimentan el corazón y el cerebro.

El colesterol puede unirse a otras sustancias para formar un depósito grueso y duro en el interior de las arterias llamado placa. Esto puede estrechar las arterias y hacerlas menos flexibles, una afección conocida como aterosclerosis. Si se forma un coágulo de sangre, es más probable que se atasque en una de estas arterias angostas y provoque un ataque cardíaco o un accidente cerebrovascular.

Comprender el riesgo

Su cuerpo produce naturalmente todo el LDL que necesita. Un estilo de vida poco saludable puede hacer que su cuerpo produzca más LDL de lo necesario. Las conductas que pueden afectar negativamente sus niveles de colesterol incluyen la falta de actividad física, la obesidad, una dieta poco saludable y el tabaquismo o la exposición al humo del tabaco.

Además de los hábitos poco saludables, que son la causa del colesterol LDL alto en la mayoría de los casos, algunas personas heredan genes de sus padres o abuelos, llamada hipercolesterolemia familiar (HF), que hacen que tengan demasiado colesterol y pueden llevar a una cardiopatía aterosclerótica prematura. Si tiene antecedentes familiares de HF o problemas relacionados con el coleste-rol alto, es importante que controle sus niveles.

Controlar el colesterol

Los adultos mayores de 20 años deben controlar su colesterol y otros factores de riesgo tradiciona-les cada 4 a 6 años, siempre

que su riesgo permanezca bajo. Después de los 40 años, su profesio-nal de la médico utilizará su médico hara un análisis para calcular su riesgo de sufrir un ataque car-díaco o un accidente cerebrovascular a 10 años. Las personas con enfermedades cardiovasculares y las que tienen un riesgo elevado pueden necesitar que se evalúen su colesterol y otros factores de riesgo con más frecuencia.

Manejar el colesterol

Si tiene colesterol alto, comprender su riesgo de enfermedad cardíaca y accidente cerebrovascular es una de las cosas más importantes que puede hacer, junto con medidas para reducirlo.

A menudo, simplemente cambiar ciertos hábitos puede beneficiar su salud. Una de las mejores ma-neras de reducir el colesterol es seguir una dieta saludable para el corazón que haga hincapié en las frutas, los vegetales, los cereales integrales, las proteínas magras o de origen vegetal, el pescado y los frutos secos y, al mismo tiempo, limitar las carnes rojas y procesadas, el sodio y los alimentos y bebidas azucarados. Cuando vaya de compras al supermercado, busque

la marca Heart-Check de la American Heart Association para ayudar a identificar los alimentos que pueden ser parte de un pa-trón general de alimentación saludable. Otros cambios en el estilo de vida incluyen perder peso, dejar de fumar y volverse más activo físicamente, ya que un estilo de vida sedentario puede reducir el HDL. Para ayudar a reducir tanto el colesterol como la presión arterial elevados, los expertos recomiendan al menos 150 minutos de ejercicio aeróbico de intensidad moderada a la semana, como caminar, andar en bicicleta o nadar.

Para algunas personas, los cambios en el estilo de vida pueden prevenir o controlar los niveles de colesterol no saludables. Otros, también pueden necesitar medicamentos. Trabaje con su médico para desarrollar un plan de tratamiento adecuado para usted. Si se requiere medicación, asegúrese de tomarla según lo prescrito.

Controlar su colesterol puede ser más fácil de lo que piensa. Obtenga más información sobre cómo controlar su colesterol en heart.org/cholesterol. n

Fotos cortesía de Getty Images

Area support groups and resources

Lake Cumberland Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group is for caregivers and other interested people. They meet the second Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m. at Cumberland Church of Christ in Somerset.

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Pulaski Alzheimer’s Disease Respite is located at 393 South Main Street, Somerset, 606-679-9310

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Pulaski County Senior Center 255 South Maple Street Somerset, (606) 679-0590

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AppalReD Legal Aid Somerset Office: 108 College Street, Somerset, 606-679-7313 or 800-866-7313

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Lake Cumberland Area Development District Counties Served: Adair, Casey,

Clinton, Cumberland, Green, McCreary, Pulaski, Russell, Taylor and Wayne.

https://www.lcadd.org/ 2384 Lakeway Drive, Russell Springs, Toll Free: 1-800-264-7093

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Hospice Adult Grief Support

Meetings are free and open to the public. Somerset bereavement group meets year-round, on the last Tuesday of the month, from 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. at 100 Parkview Drive in Somerset. Call for children’s bereavement services: 800-937-9596. Check website for more information: hospicelc.org/

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Friend for Life Cancer Support Network provides one-to-one peer support for cancer patients and their family

members at no cost, assisting individuals diagnosed with cancer and their loved ones as they navigate the path through diagnosis, treatment, recovery, and survival by pairing them with a trained survivor of a similar experience so they can face cancer with someone who’s been there. www.friend4life.org or 502-893-0643.

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LCRH “Latch with Love” offers free, drop-in, informal breastfeeding support, including professional lactation care. This provides breastfeeding families an opportunity for social connection as they navigate challenges and celebrate successes together. Sponsored by LCRH. Check website for info: lakecumberlandhospital.com/ events.

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The Kentucky Safe Aging Coalition works with various partners to provide fall prevention resources and support, as well as sharing updates on best practices. For more information, please call Roy at 859-562-1657 or rtapp2@ uky.edu. For more information, visit: safekentucky.org

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Lake Cumberland District Health Department provides help and resources for a wealth of health and wellness and safety topics. Find a list of community resources at lcdhd. org/resources.

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Lake Cumberland District Ombudsman (Long Term Care) Serving Adair, Casey, Clinton, Cumberland, Green, McCreary, Pulaski, Russell, Taylor, and Wayne counties. Advocates for residents of

nursing homes, personal care homes and family care homes, improving care and encouraging positive change at all levels. Lake Cumberland ADD, P.O. Box 1570, Russell Springs, Toll Free: 1-800-264-7093

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Breastfeeding and Prenatal Classes — Help families welcome new babies with free classes including getting ready for delivery, basics of newborn care, infant bathing, safety and wellness, how to prepare for breastfeeding, and much more. Hosted by Ashley Hoseclaw, MSN, RN, IBCLC, Perinatal Educator and Lactation Consultant. 2024 classes are offered monthly on Tuesday evenings or Saturday mornings. Full class with both components takes about 3 hours. Please register in advance to save your spot. For questions or more information, call 606-678-3176 or visit lakecumberlandhospital.com/ women-and-children.

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Lake Cumberland Community Action Agency, committed to improving the health and welfare of the less fortunate through a variety of services and community partnerships to ensure self-sufficiency and economic stability. 100 N. Main Street, Somerset, Suite 302, 606-679-6203, https://lc-caa.org/

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Operation UNITE - Lake Cumberland Chapter, serves Pulaski, Wayne, and McCreary counties. Coalition meetings are always open to the public. The Pulaski Coalition meets the second Monday of each month at 1 p.m. in the conference

Lake Cumberland

room at Lake Cumberland Health Department in Somerset.

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There is a breast cancer support group that meets once a month, every third Thursday, usually at Mellow Mushroom in Somerset. The Facebook page available to request joining is: Breast Cancer and Beyond Support Group - Somerset. Admins are Jeri English and Gayle Allen.

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Living Bread Soup Kitchen serves free hot meals to-go to the community of Pulaski County and surrounding counties. Meals can be picked up every Tuesday and Thursday at 3 p.m. at 321 South Maple Street in Somerset. Located directly behind the Pulaski County Library. Every third Tuesday of the month they provide a free food box filled with grocery items (items vary each month). Contact Gina Gaylor at 606-379-6270 for further details or questions.

Help the Homeless is a volunteer-run and community-funded grassroots 501c(3) organization addressing homelessness in the Lake Cumberland region. You can help by volunteering or donating items. 408 Bogle St., Somerset, 606-875-3893.

We’ve done our best to verify accuracy of the content of our resources page. We appreciate your input in helping us make corrections and suggesting additions. We’ll do our best to include as much as space allows and will give priority to health and wellness related groups and resources that are free and open to the public. Our deadline is the second Friday of each month. Please include a small blurb about the organization, who it serves, how to contact you, where you are located, etc. Please be brief. We will not publish random requests from links or Facebook groups or if emails or URLs bounce. Email info@LCCompass.com.

Sunday, November 17, 2024

you heard? People love our diabetes classes at the Health Department!

"The instructor presented the information in the way I needed. I will recommend this to my friends!"

"I really like the class and the free gifts and doing the 'hands on' stuff."

"I got so much information I never knew was out there. Every person with diabetes NEEDS this class and maybe a family member."

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