Collin County Living Well Magazine May-June 2021

SLEEP APNEA: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW FUN HIKING ADVENTURES WITH THE KIDS

Diane S. Litke, M.D.

KELLY RIPA

STAND OUT WITH THE EMINENT CHOICE IN HEALTHCARE

Pain Management • Sports Medicine • General Surgery

Spine Surgery • Orthopedic Surgery • Neurosurgery

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery • Total Joint Surgery

Foot & Ankle Surgery • Hand Surgery

Gynecological Surgery • Plastic Surgery

ROBOTIC TECHNOLOGY

Orthopedic surgeons and the medical staff at Eminent Medical Center are excited to offer Zimmer Biomet’s ROSA Knee System, which helps surgeons personalize surgical procedures for their patients.

DFW Wound Care Center is a group of wound care specialists in all of the DFW area. They are fellow trained surgeons, and board certified in wound care and reconstructive surgery. All physicians have also completed an intense residency and fellowship in the area of limb salvage, and foot and ankle surgery. When it comes to wound care and limb salvage, DFW Wound Care Center has the knowledge and experience to successfully treat your condition. As a result, patients from all over the country seek to be treated by DFW Wound Care Center.

Whether caused by diabetes, infection or disease, any wound that will not heal can be very serious. If you are experiencing a wound or ulcer that will not properly heal, our wound care center can provide a range of expert treatment options best in each case. We offer non-surgical and surgical treatments for:

Diabetic Wounds & Ulcers

Arterial Ulcers

Infected Wounds

Open Wounds

Pressure Ulcers

Vascular Wounds

Acute Wounds

Non-Healing Wounds

Chronic Wounds

Surgical Wounds

Traumatic Wounds

PLANO CLINIC 5804 Coit Road, Ste. 100 Plano, TX 75023

LEWISVILLE CLINIC 502 N. Valley Pkwy., #2 Lewisville, TX 75067

IRVING CLINIC

6161 N. State Hwy. 161, Ste. 320 Irving, TX 75038

DESOTO CLINIC 714 N. Hampton Rd. De Soto, TX 75115

JOSHUA WORLEY, DPM | REZA MOBARAK, DPM, FACFAS, FAPWCA, FAPWHC | MITCH WILLIAMS, DPM

FROM THE PUBLISHER

A REASON TO RISE & SHINE

With an artist’s eye and a deep knowledge of the inner workings of the body’s most active and important joints, Dr. Diane S. Litke’s skilled hands and nimble mind are highly sought after. The Richardson orthopaedic surgeon graces this issue and for good reason.

For over 20 years, Dr. Litke has treated patients in the community and eliminated their pain. Hip, knee, and shoulder issues are her specialities. The results she achieves are astounding. For example, a patient who recently had both her knees replaced was pain free and soon walking miles a day. So much so that the patient lost 50 pounds in the months following her successful surgery. Read more about Dr. Litke and how she helps her patients achieve their goals on page 8.

Next, may we suggest turning your attention to the celebrity feature story. We catch up with morning talk show host Kelly Ripa. The petite dynamo is an energizing blend of morning glory that millions of people rise and shine to.

Ripa has been entertaining audiences for two decades on various iterations of the Live! morning program. From Live with Regis & Kelly, to Live with Kelly & Michael, and now Live with Kelly & Ryan, Ripa’s on-air persona is as fun and fresh as the fist day she sidled up to the show’s original host, Regis Philbin.

Find out what makes Ripa sparkle and how she keeps it fresh with her long-time hubby Mark Consuelos on page 24. We’re not surprised how candid Ripa gets when sharing details of her life. After all, being relatable and sharing personal anecdotes are part of her charm.

Switching gears to something more serious, we discuss sleep apnea on page 30. Roughly 20 million people suffer from this ailment and have difficulty breathing while sleeping. Left untreated, it can lead to serious health conditions. Read about the causes, effects, and treatments to get the inside track on how to tackle this problem.

For something on the lighter side, turn to page 44 for suggestions on fun hiking adventures to tackle with your kids or grandkids. Far from strenuous, these novel suggestions offer learning opportunities for kids and adults alike.

Here’s hoping you get to it.

Be well!

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MAY/JUNE 2021

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LIVING WELL MAGAZINE is a source for quality educational articles on living a healthy, vibrant life. Our focus is on connecting our readers with the latest information on a host of topics relevant to their evolving life. From cutting edge medical news and procedures to top-tier financial, legal and lifestyle information. Connecting readers to leading medical and business professionals in their community in Texas and Oklahoma.

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Dr. Jason Tinley, MD is a minimally invasive, board certified, orthopedic spine surgeon. He specializes in spine surgery, including spinal stenosis, cervical radiculopathy and myelopathy, minimally invasive cervical and lumbar spine surgery, cervical artificial disc replacement, and microdiscectomy.

Dr. Jason C. Tinley is committed to excellence by pledging to provide the highest quality spine care possible. Along with the treatment of immediate or chronic problems, he strives to integrate the doctrine of prevention in all treatment plans with the goal of alleviating possible future difficulties. Dr. Tinley has become a leader in instruction and research in disc replacement and has a passion for optimizing spine surgery outcomes through development and utilization of new techniques, research and materials.

“Dr Tinley is a leader in the field of spinal surgery. His technique is excellent, but he does not rush to pursue surgery. Very good at explaining your condition and allowing you to decide a course of treatment.”

—RANDALL W.

“My experience with DFW Center for Spinal Disorders was excellent. Dr. Tinley and his staff are attentive and compassionate. My surgery went better than I could have ever expected, and I am now pain free!”

—BARBARA K.

TheARTofSURGERYBRINGSDR.DIANES.LITKE ADEFTREPLACEMENT.TOUCHTOJOINT

BYSONDRABARR

Richardson orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Diane S. Litke has an artist’s eye and a deep knowledge of the inner workings of the body’s most active and important joints. Yet, what truly sets this dedicated doctor, who co-founded L&W Orthopaedic Associates, apart is her unwavering passion for helping patients live better, pain-free lives.

Dr. Litke was fascinated by the human body and its movement early on. Growing up in New York, she once found herself in the officof a doctor who was an orthopaedist for the New York Mets. “He was showing me a photo of all his residents and pointed out, ‘ There are no women in this group,’” recounts Dr. Litke, who fimly replied, “Not yet.”

Ths youthful confidece grew when Dr. Litke was attending the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. While interning in the athletic training department, one of the head trainers said to her, “You’re smart enough; you should be the doctor not a trainer.”

The soon-to-be doctor’s thoughts exactly. She earned a medical degree there and went on to complete her orthopaedic residency at the University of South Carolina. She is certifid by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery, and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery and a Fellow of the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons.

“I went to medical school and then decided 100% that orthopaedics was what I needed to do,” explains Dr. Litke, who’s always enjoyed fixig things. “Someone comes to you in pain and you make them better. They can then go back to their lives better than they were before.”

Hip, knee, and shoulder issues are Dr. Litke’s specialities. Assisting her skilled hands, she uses the latest state-of-the-art robotic equipment for accuracy and precision, delivering a powerful combination of experience and technology to all her patients.

Dr. Litke utilizes the Stryker Mako robot, a high-tech piece of medical equipment at Methodist Richardson Medical Center. Serving as the director of the joint program there, Dr. Litke is pleased with the hospital’s services and nurturing culture.

“Methodist Richardson has always had a good atmosphere to work in,” says Dr. Litke. “ They’ve been very supportive of my practice, of me, of everything.” The hospital also makes it easier for Dr. Litke to provide exceptional surgical care.

“I had a patient that I discharged this morning who had a total knee done by somebody else about 10 or 12 years ago and he said the difference was night and day, in terms of the pain and function that he had in his knee just less than 24 hours after surgery,” says Dr. Litke.

I HAD A PATIENT THAT I DISCHARGED THIS MORNING WHO HAD A TOTAL KNEE DONE BY SOMEBODY ELSE ABOUT 10 OR 12 YEARS AGO AND HE SAID THE DIFFERENCE WAS NIGHT AND DAY, IN TERMS OF THE PAIN AND FUNCTION THAT HE HAD IN HIS KNEE JUST LESS THAN 24 HOURS AFTER SURGERY.

She attributes this to improved pain management techniques, robotic assistance, no tourniquets, and the most up-to-date pain protocols used to help the patient after surgery.

“I have this one patient who had both her knees done. Within a few months she was walking pain free and walking miles a day. I just saw her the other day and she had lost about 50 pounds just by being able to walk and play with her grandkids,” details Dr. Litke.

“Everyone is different. I’ve had people get back to near normal anywhere from two to six weeks, although sometimes it’s longer,” she says of knee replacements. “Hip replacements sometimes that’s even more dramatic. I’ve had people go back to work two to five days later.”

Being able to change someone’s life by alleviating their pain is Dr. Litke’s motivation. “One of the things I like to pride myself on is being able to use cutting-edge technology, while maintaining a personal touch with patients,” says Dr. Litke.

Ths personal touch extends to being available for her patients day, night, or weekend. Patients have access to Dr. Litke anytime they need by calling the offi, which rings to her phone after hours. Take for instance a patient who’d broken his hip from a fall recently. “I wasn’t on call but he asked me if I would do it and I said, ‘Of course I will,’” she describes.

Opening up L&W Orthopaedic Associates in Richardson 20 years ago was a natural progression for this consummate medical professional. She opened the practice with Dr. John T. Wey, who’s a foot and ankle specialist. In the ensuing years, L&W has become the predominant orthopaedic group in the area and treats patients from not only Richardson, but Garland, Wylie, Plano, and the North Dallas area.

Ending up in Richardson was luck of the draw and not Dr. Litke’s initial intention. Since moving to Richardson, she’s fallen for the small town feel of the area and its proximity to a big city. Her involvement with the community extends to serving on local boards and volunteering at the Wildflwer Festival, which unfortunately has been on pause for the past two years due to COVID.

Speaking of COVID, L&W Orthopaedic Associates has responded to the pandemic with vigor. Everyone is required to wear masks, everything is cleaned diligently multiple times throughout the day, and patients undergo temperature and question screening. As for surgeries, COVID patients aren’t allowed on that flor. Additionally, the amount of outpatient joints has increased. “Right now about 50% of my patients are going home the same day of the surgery, as opposed to being admitted to the hospital. They can enjoy their recovery in the comfort of their own homes,” details Dr. Litke.

In the rare instances when Dr. Litke fids herself out of the operating room and with free time, she gravitates toward the art of photography. Perhaps it’s not surprising that she’s drawn to taking photos of musicians’ hands playing different instruments. Dr. Litke is fascinated by the form of the hand, how it can do certain things, and move in specific positions, all things that bring to mind her work as a skilled surgeon. “Sometimes they look all beat up, the hands, yet they make beautiful music,” she says.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Litke, please call (972) 498-4791.

Tips for Dealing with Spring Allergies

Courtesy KEY-WHITMAN EYE CENTER

Spring in North Texas can be especially brutal for allergy sufferers. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, Dallas ranks 19th in the nation for the most challenging places to live with spring allergies, although this year’s ranking is an improvement from last year’s no.7 rank.

Spring allergies can cause sneezing, runny nose and nasal congestion, as well as dry, red, itchy, burning or even swollen eyes. These symptoms are more than irritating; they can be downright painful.

How allergies affect your eyes

When the conjunctiva (mucous membrane covering the whites of the eyes and lining the eyelids) comes into contact with allergens such as pollen from grasses, trees and weeds, the immune system senses a threat and antibodies are developed that release histamine, causing watery, itchy, red eyes.

In addition to seasonal allergies, many people suffer from perennial allergies, which may be caused by dust, mold, pet dander, air pollution, cosmetics, perfume, medication or smoke. If you aren’t certain of the cause of your eye allergies, ask your doctor for an allergy test to determine the source of your discomfort.

EYE CARE TIPS FOR DEALING WITH SEASONAL ALLERGIES

If you suffer from seasonal allergies, follow these eye care tips for relief from your symptoms:

• Apply a cold compress. If your eyes are puffy or swollen from allergies, a cold compress can provide temporary relief.

• Stay inside and keep your windows closed on high pollen count days. Local weather services provide daily pollen counts. When pollen is high, avoid being outside as much as possible. Typically, pollen counts tend to be higher midmorning and early evening.

• Wear eyeglasses or sunglasses to block pollen from your eyes. When you do go outside, eyeglasses or sunglasses can provide an extra shield to protect your eyes from allergens that may be in the air.

• Practice proper contact lens care. Contact lens wearers may experience more allergy symptoms due to allergens becoming trapped behind the contact lens. Lenses should be cleaned thoroughly and changed regularly. Do not share contact lenses or cases with others.

• Wash your hands and hair frequently. In the same way your hands can spread germs, they can also spread allergens, and if you spend much time outside during the spring, pollen and other allergens may become trapped in your hair.

• Avoid rubbing or scratching your eyes.

Consistently rubbing or scratching your eyes may lead to more serious eye problems or a damaged cornea. Purchase over-the-counter eye drops, or ask your doctor for prescription eye drops to help relieve dry or itchy eyes.

• Change your bedding frequently. Allergens can stick to your bedding, further irritating your eyes.

Remember that some eye conditions—dry eyes or pinkeye, to name a few—are not caused by allergies, but may be confused with allergies.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of eye allergies, only your doctor will be able to tell you if your symptoms are in fact caused by an allergic reaction. Schedule an eye exam today to ensure your symptoms are not caused by an infection or more serious problem.

Common types of allergic eye conditions

Allergic conjunctivitis or allergic rhinoconjunctivitis:

Ths is the most common allergic eye condition, and it is typically associated with seasonal allergies or hay fever. The release of histamine can cause common eye allergy symptoms, including itchy, red, burning, watery or swollen eyes. Topical antihistamine drops, decongestants and mast-cell stabilizers are common treatments for allergic conjunctivitis.

Atopic keratoconjunctivitis:

Primarily affecting adolescent boys, this condition involves inflammation in the conjunctiva and the cornea. Symptoms include itchy, red patches on the eyelids, scaly or crusty skin on the eyelids, heavy discharge or sensitivity to light. If not properly managed, this condition could lead to permanent scarring of the cornea from rubbing and scratching.

Vernal keratoconjunctivitis:

Though less common, this spring eye allergy condition causes the eyes to become itchy, sensitive to light and can even cause eyelids to feel heavy or droopy. Improper treatment may lead to impaired vision. A short-term, low-dose prescription of topical steroids has shown to be the most effective treatment for this condition.

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ELDER LAW FOR SENIOR ADULTS & THEIR FAMILIES

Elder Law is first and foremost about empowering seniors. Elder Law services help you address issues of living arrangements, financial well-being, healthcare options, and the ultimate disposition of assets, enabling you to make your own choices and decisions about managing life as you age.

AREAS OF LAW: LONG-TERM CARE PLANNING

MEDICAID ELIGIBILITY

VETERANS BENEFITS

ESTATE ADMINISTRATION GUARDIANSHIPS

PROBATE LITIGATION

ESTATE PLANNING WILLS & TRUSTS

Lauren Olson Attorney

Lori Leu Certified Elder Law Attorney

Erin Peirce Attorney

A Primer on Probate

Courtesy LEU & PEIRCE, LLC

Losing a loved one is never easy. Many people describe the weeks and months following such loss as “a blur.” After notifying family members, and planning and carrying out the memorial service, comes the question of how to handle the loved one’s estate. Many times, the answer is probate. While the probate process has a reputation for being time-consuming and costly, in Texas, it is relatively quick and inexpensive.

Probate provides for an orderly transition of property ownership following a death. Probate is necessary when an individual who has died owned property that does not pass directly to another individual through beneficary designations. Accounts with rights of survivorship or payable-on-death beneficaries, including life insurance policies, are examples of property that passes directly to a designated individual without the need for probate. Importantly, and despite common belief, title to real property listed in more than one name does not automatically pass to the survivor. Therefore, probate is often necessary to transfer title to the surviving spouse.

Any “interested person” may initiate the probate process. Ths includes anyone having a property right in, or claim against, the estate being administered. Texas has two types of formal probate procedures.

Most probates are handled as independent administrations, meaning the executor or administrator does not have to post a bond or ask the court’s permission before settling the estate. By contrast, a dependent administration is a court-supervised administration. If there is no Will, or if the Will does not provide for an independent administration, then the administration will be “dependent,” unless the beneficaries agree otherwise. Dependent administrations tend to be more expensive, since the administrator must seek court approval for every major decision. However, this added burden and expense may be preferable to protect the administrator if the estate has multiple creditors or feuding beneficaries.

An “executor” is a personal representative who was named in a Will that has been admitted to probate, and who serves in the capacity stated in the Will. An “administrator” is anyone else who is appointed to handle the estate. The individual named in the Will has fist priority to serve as executor. However, the judge may refuse to appoint an individual named in the Will if the judge fids that person to be unsuitable.

Once the judge is satisfid that the Will is valid and the person asking to be appointed executor is a suitable person to serve, the executor will be issued Letters Testamentary, which evidences the executor’s authority to gather assets and act on behalf of the estate. The executor must issue notice to creditors, notify beneficaries, and gather the assets, which the executor must safeguard until the time comes to distribute to the beneficaries. Collecting and protecting estate assets is the primary job of the executor, who should care for the property of the estate as a prudent man would care for his own property. Once the business of the estate has been concluded, assets have been collected, and debts have been paid, the executor may distribute the property to the beneficaries.

In addition to independent and dependent administrations, Texas law allows for another simple probate procedure known as a muniment of title. A muniment of title may be used when an individual died with a valid Will, there are no unpaid debts, except those secured by real property, and the individual was not receiving Medicaid benefits prior to death. Ths proceeding allows for the probate of a Will without the requirement of appointing an executor or administrator, notifying creditors, or filing an inventory, thus making the process easier and less expensive. A muniment of title is not a feasible option if the individual owned property outside the state of Texas or held non-probate assets, such as insurance or retirement accounts, that were payable to the estate, rather than an individual.

There are many factors and variables to consider when determining whether and what type of probate proceeding is appropriate for an estate. A Will remains a valid legal document for four years after death. After that time, if administration of an estate is necessary, it will be handled as if there was no Will. Therefore, if a loved one has died, it is important to contact an attorney who handles probate to discuss which of the various options is best suited to meet your circumstances.

Pooyan Rohani, M.D., M.Engr.

MOHS MICROGRAPHIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGEON

Mohs surgery offers the highest cure rates for skin cancer.

Dr. Pooyan Rohani is a fellowship-trained Mohs micrographic and reconstructive surgeon and board-certified dermatologist specializing in the surgical and non-surgical management of skin cancers in addition to other dermatologic conditions.

As a Mohs surgeon and former engineer, Dr. Rohani relies on his extensive medical training in addition to a unique background in engineering to deliver outstanding results. These skills are particularly important when he performs complex removal and reconstruction surgery on cancerous growth affecting cosmetically sensitive areas on the head and neck where precise planning and meticulous operation are critical to excellent functional and aesthetic outcomes.

“I am deeply familiar with the angst that a new diagnosis of skin cancer may cause. If I have the privilege of taking care of your medical needs, I will draw upon years of training and experience to compassionately provide high-quality, individualized care to achieve the best outcome possible for you.”

~Dr. Pooyan Rohani

Dear Olivia,

My husband and I have received both of our vaccines. When is it safe to visit our grandkids and get back to “normal”?

-I’m vaccinated, now what?

Dear I’m vaccinated, now what, First, thank you for choosing to be vaccinated. This is such an important step in getting our world and community back to some type of normal. The CDC has issued the following recommendations for a non-healthcare setting:

Fully vaccinated people can:

• Visit with other fully vaccinated people indoors without wearing masks or physical distancing

• Visit with unvaccinated people from a single household who are at low risk for severe COVID-19 disease indoors without wearing masks or physical distancing

• Refrain from quarantine and testing following a known exposure if asymptomatic

OLIVIA ROGERS

Olivia is a leading voice in health care and senior services and the Chief Nursing Officer of VNA Texas.

For now, fully vaccinated people should continue to:

• Take precautions in public like wearing a wellfitted mask and physical distancing

• Wear masks, practice physical distancing, and adhere to other prevention measures when visiting with unvaccinated people who are at increased risk for severe COVID-19 disease

• Wear masks, maintain physical distance, and practice other prevention measures when visiting with unvaccinated people from multiple households

• Avoid medium- and large-sized in-person gatherings

• Get tested if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms

• Follow guidance issued by individual employers

• Follow CDC and health department travel requirements and recommendations

Also, now that you have had the shot, you can encourage your friends and family to do so and share your experience. Wishing you health and joy as you visit your friends and family again.

~Olivia

VNA Hospice Care

VNA Hospice Care focuses on living life to its fullest and treating you with the dignity and respect you deserve. As a nonprofit, our bottom line is patient support and care provided by our highly qualified staff.

VNA Care Choices

Following the diagnosis of a life-limiting illness, patients and their loved ones have many questions about the best course of action. VNA Care Choices provides supportive care services in the home while continuing treatment with your current physician.

To schedule your free in-home informational visit please call (214) 535-2615 or email gethelp@vnatexas.org For volunteer opportunities please call (214) 689-2271 or email volunteer@vnatexas.org

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How Prevalent is Hearing Loss in America?

By ELIZABETH BRASSINE, AU.D.

How prevalent is hearing loss in America? You may be surprised! Nearly a fih of all Americans 12 years or older have enough hearing loss to make communication difficult, according to a new study led by Johns Hopkins researchers and published in the Nov. 14 Archives of Internal Medicine. The fidings, thought to be the fist nationally representative estimate of hearing loss, suggest that many more people than previously thought are affected by this condition. The study was led by Frank Lin, M.D., Ph.D., an assistant professor in the Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.

Using the World Health Organization’s defintion for hearing loss (not being able to hear sounds of 25 decibels or less in the speech frequencies), the researchers found that overall, about 30 million Americans, or 12.7% of the population, had hearing loss in both ears. That number jumps to about 48 million, or 20.3%, for people who have hearing loss in at least one ear. These numbers far surpass previous estimates of 21 to 29 million.

Hearing loss prevalence nearly doubled with every age decade, with women and blacks being signifiantly less likely to have hearing loss at any age. Lin and his colleagues aren’t sure why these groups appear to be protected. However, he notes that the female hormone estrogen, as well as the melanin pigment in darker skin, could have a protective effect on the inner ear.

In the meantime, Lin says, the new numbers greatly impact the work he and other researchers are doing on hearing loss and its consequences, which, according to previous studies, include cognitive decline, dementia, and poor physical functioning. Lin’s research also looked at a link between hearing loss and the risk of falling in middle aged-adults and the elderly. They found that hearing loss triples the risk!

So, how does someone know that they have hearing loss? There are several signs or symptoms that suggest hearing loss is present. These are things like having trouble hearing over the phone, fiding it difficult to follow conversations especially when there are multiple speakers, needing to turn up the television, having diffiulty hearing in background noise, or saying that others around them are mumbling, etc.

Hearing loss can be caused by so many factors such as the aging process, noise exposure, viral or bacterial infections, head injuries, tumors, certain medications such as some chemotherapy drugs, and heredity, among others. Audiologists are also starting to see a relationship with hearing loss and those who have suffered with COVID-19.

The pandemic and subsequent mask usage is also making many people more aware of their hearing loss. Masks, although necessary to reduce risk of spreading disease, pose challenges for all of us with communication. Ths is especially true for people with hearing loss. Masks remove visual cues that we all rely on for communication. There are clear masks available that are helpful for some. However, in addition to removing visual cues, masks also degrade the speech information, particularly the high pitch sounds which are the consonants of speech. And, different masks have different effects. The N95 masks, which are the most benefical in reducing disease transmission, have the biggest impact on degrading speech information.

“Ths gives us the real scope of the problem for the fist time and shows us how big of a problem hearing loss really is,” Lin says. The moral of the story is that it’s a good idea to have your hearing tested throughout your life. See an audiologist today and stay connected.

Rise & SHINE

By SONDRA BARR

If you think about it, anchoring an award-winning top morning talk show day in and day out for over 20 years must be exhausting. You have to look your best at all times, regardless of late nights and early mornings. Then there’s the constant small talk and off-he-cuffbon mots hosts need to strategically sprinkle throughout each telecast to keep the audience from changing the channel.

To keep up the endless a.m. shtick for two decades without it becoming staid is a skill, one that Kelly Ripa has mastered over the years. That Ripa’s on-air persona on the Live franchise is as fun and fresh as the fist day she sidled up next to the show’s original patriarch, Regis Philbin, is a testament to Ripa’s natural comedic timing and self-depreciating humor.

WORK

Only 30 years old when she auditioned for the spot vacated in 2000 by Kathie Lee Gifford, Ripa impressed Philbin instantly. In his autobiography, How I Got This Way, Philbin wrote, “Hers was a natural, quick-witted, unaffected, confident, fun-loving kind of sparkle that both Gelman [Michael Gelman, the show’s executive producer] and I remembered very well.”

What had been Live with Regis & Kathie smoothly transitioned to Regis & Kelly. Ripa, best known for her All My Children role when she was hired as Gifford’s permanent replacement, not only held her own beside the industry stalwart, she invigorated the show. During the Regis years, Ripa and Philbin effortlessly bantered about the minutia of pregnancy, raising kids, and keeping it “hot” in the bedroom.

“

” I FEEL LIKE I HAVE A friendship WITH MY audience.

“I feel like I have a friendship with my audience,” Ripa told writer Irina Aleksander two years after Philbin retired at age 80. “Like we know each other, not on a level of talking head and viewers, but like, ‘My kid has the flu. So does yours? Oh my God, yours does too?’”

Ripa recently told Variety that her success connecting with viewers is due to “My overall willingness to let all my foibles unfold and put all of my imperfections out there.”

“A lot of people don’t listen to the people they’re talking to,” said CNN anchor Anderson Cooper. “But Kelly, she picks up on everything, and she makes fun of herself, which, in TV, not a lot of people can do in a genuine way.”

When Philbin stepped away in 2011, Ripa didn’t miss a beat and carried the show. Eventually Philbin was replaced by former football player Michael Strahan and the show was renamed to Live with Kelly & Michael. But, one thing was clear, Ripa was the main draw. Ths continued to be evident even when entertainment powerhouse Ryan Seacrest became Ripa’s permanent co-host after Strahan departed in 2016.

Live with Kelly & Ryan continues to showcase Ripa’s engaging on-screen presence and proved to be a bright light in people’s lives, even during a pandemic. “A lot of people watch our show when they’re in the middle of something,” Ripa told Woman’s Day writer Kelsey Hurwitz in 2020. “So I always approach my job like somebody right now is in an emergency room somewhere and they need something light, they need something happy, they need something joyful…if you can make that person happy or smile or even chuckle for a second, then you’ve done your job.”

RIPA MET HER HUSBAND ON THE SET OF ALL MY CHILDREN IN 1995 AND ELOPED A YEAR LATER IN LAS VEGAS. PHOTO: ABC

RIPA SHARING WITTY BANTER WITH THE LATE REGIS PHILBIN ON REGIS & KELLY

RIPA AND FAMILY ATTENDING THE HOLLYWOOD WALK OF FAME STAR CEREMONY HELD IN HER HONOR.

ONCE IN A WHILE, I’D tilt the computer AND YOU’D SEE MARK [CONSUELOS, HER HUSBAND]

SLEEPING IN BED. IT WAS A VERY exciting way of doing business.

“ ”

FAMILY

When Live! did at-home tapings during the height of the pandemic. “People really loved it because they felt it was intimate,” Ripa told Variety. “Once in a while, I’d tilt the computer and you’d see Mark [Consuelos, her husband] sleeping in bed. It was a very exciting way of doing business.”

As for Consuelos, Ripa’s husband, the pair met on the set of All My Children. A year after the two eloped in Las Vegas in 1996, they had a son, Michael. Daughter Lola Grace and son Joaquin Antonio followed.

“I thought she was the coolest, sexiest chick, Consuelos told Aleksander. “She smoked back then, and obviously I don’t think smoking is cool now, but when you’re 24…she was a really, really, sexy smoker.”

Never shy about her love for Consuelos, Ripa frequently takes to Instagram to share shirtless photos of her husband and she isn’t shy about talking about their sex life. When asked how often she and her husband get it on by pal Andy Cohen on his late-night show Watch What Happens Live, Ripa admitted they have “lots of sex.”

“I fundamentally believe that the more you do it, the more you do it, the less you do it, the less you do it,” she explained. “We just like each other a lot. I love my husband. I think he’s awesome. We’ve been together a really long time. We try to do spicy things together all the time.”

The 50-year-old Ripa has even gotten on the sexy selfiewagon, divulging an instance when she sent Consuelos a sexy photo. “I sent him a cute, adorable butt selfiein my underpants. It’s the only

time I’ve ever sent a semi-nude anything, ever!” Turns out, she accidentally sent it to her family members who responded to her via an email saying, “Dear Kelly, we are so proud of all your hard work. Your exercise classes are really paying off.”

There she goes, being relatable again and sharing personal anecdotes.

HEALTH

Of course, the topic of her preternaturally toned body and ageless visage is one she’s quick to point out is hard earned. Since 2015, Ripa has followed an alkaline diet that focuses on eating foods that are low in acid. “I believe inflammation is one of the great killers of people, in different ways. Whether it’s digestive problems, or heart health, or brain inflammation. Inflammation really affects your body in totality, so I try to maintain a really alkaline diet,” she told Women’s Health

In addition to daily workouts, SoulCycle classes, and sweat sessions with her personal trainer, Ripa also takes anti-inflammatory supplements, including omega-3 fish oil, black cumin seed oil, and turmeric. A CBD supplement for better sleep is also one of Ripa’s go-tos. “I’ve read about CBD, but I never really dialed into it, I thought it was nonsense, and it really does aide in helping you sleep,” she told People. I can attest, because sleep was so elusive for me for so many years, partly because I work out a lot, so I have a lot of energy, and partly because I’m a morning show host.”

If the past 20-plus years are any indication, Ripa will be a morning show host for the next two decades.

CORE

Timothy C. Pringle, MD, R.V.T., R.P.V.I.

VASCULAR SURGEON & VEIN SPECIALIST

Dr. Timothy Pringle is a board-certified endovascular surgeon. He specializes in minimally invasive techniques to address all aspects of vascular disease. He is knowledgeable and experienced with management of venous insufficiency and peripheral arterial disease. Dr. Pringle predominately treats venous insufficiency in his office with laser procedures. His philosophy is, “Interventions improve quality of life, but lifestyle change improves lifespan.” Dr. Pringle understands true healing comes from an integrative approach to vascular disease. He provides in-office surveillance through ultrasound testing. Dr. Pringle is the rare combination of a caring, kind, and compassionate physician who loves God, family, and his patients.

Sleep Apnea: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

We hear a lot about obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) from both local and national news sources. Some 20 million people suffer with OSA and only 10% are diagnosed. More than 50% of those over 64 have a sleep problem. What is OSA, the causes, effects and how is it treated? I will try to answer these questions so if you or a loved one are aware of the symptoms you can take action.

There are two types of sleep apnea: central and obstructive. Central is less common, occurs when the brain fails to send the appropriate signal to the breathing muscles to initiate respirations. Obstructive is more common and occurs when air cannot flw into or out of the person’s nose or mouth although efforts to breathe continue. In a given night, the number of involuntary breathing pauses or “apnea events” may be as high as 20 to 30 or more an hour. These pauses are usually accompanied by snoring between apnea events, although not everyone who snores has this condition.

During these “events” the person in unable to breathe in oxygen and to exhale carbon dioxide, resulting in low levels of oxygen and increased levels of CO2. The brain senses this imbalance and triggers the upper airway muscles to open; usually a loud snort or gasp will occur. These arousals restart breathing but prevent the patient from getting deep restorative sleep (Stage 4 or REM).

Contributing risk factors for sleep disorders including being overweight, race, gender, smoking, alcohol consumption, high blood pressure, under-active thyroid or some physical abnormality in the nose, throat or upper airway. Sleep apnea seems to run in some families, possible genetic basis.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF SLEEP APNEA

Loud disruptive snoring cessation of breathing during sleep, waking up gasping, morning headaches, grogginess, dry mouth, frequent nighttime urination, moodiness and irritability. Ths pretty much is how I feel after staying out late and my grandkids wake me up early.

Leftuntreated OSA can lead to serious health conditions,

including physical, emotional consequences and an increase in accidents. The effects are excessive daytime sleepiness, poor concentration, irritability, possible depression, memory difficulties and increase stroke or heart attack risk. Long term is the strain untreated OSA places on the body along with the “link” to other medical conditions; CHF, nocturnal arrhythmias, Type II diabetes, hypertension and stroke.

As one who has OSA, I understand the ways that I coped to deal with my being sleepy during the day, not realizing how tired I was in the morning. It was my wife and my involvement with various respiratory manufacturers that led me to visit my doctor. I had a complete physical, answered several questions and was referred to a sleep physician specialist. I along with my wife completed a detailed questionnaire and after another meeting, it was agreed that I should have an overnight sleep study. Ths is a painless overnight exam that monitors one’s sleep; electrodes and sensors record all brain activity, eye movements and breathing functions. Ths will help determine the type and frequency of the sleep disorder that may be occurring nightly.

HOW IS SLEEP APNEA TREATED?

In cases of mild sleep apnea, certain lifestyle changes can sometimes achieve positive results. Exercise and proper sleep habits, oral appliances, avoiding alcohol and sleeping pills (make throat muscles relax) or sleep on your side. The most common and successful method is through continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device. In this procedure, a mask is worn at night over the nose or mouth and the air pressure will keep the airway open while you’re asleep. The pressure setting is based on the sleep study. From experience, the mask fitting is crucial to achieving success and compliance. The goal of the provider is to work with the patient to determine the best interface that will allow the patient and their bedmate to sleep comfortably. Once this is determined, follow up, encouragement and support is needed from the health team and spouse to stay compliant with the treatment.

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Orthopaedic Surgeon

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At North Texas Orthopaedic & Spine (NTOS), patients of all ages are given the focused, individualized care they need in order to live fully and comfortably. The team at NTOS has a high level of expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions involving the spine, joints, and bones.

Patients appreciate the practice’s ability to educate them thoroughly about their conditions and give them the tools that they need to take control of their well-being. Whether the patient is an athlete with an injury or someone who has a long-term condition that affects their daily life, the NTOS team works alongside them to get them back to a full, active life. NTOS offers treatment for shoulder pain, tennis elbow, torn ACLs, sciatica, carpal tunnel, herniated disc, scoliosis and more. These and other conditions can get in the way of your work, hobbies, and general enjoyment of life.

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OLABISI

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WAnatomical Gifts and the Impact on Funeral Tributes

By RICK ALLEN

e have all heard the saying, “It’s better to give than to receive.” Giving with a generous heart often warms the soul of the grantor far beyond the recipient. I cannot begin to imagine how difficult the thought process is for family members who have lost a loved one, and within minutes, are asked to make a quick decision on organ/tissue donation. “Giving the giftof life” sounds like an easy decision until it involves one of your own. I have not been in the situation of deciding on donation, but my brother was the recipient of a transplanted lung and I can speak fisthand of the joy felt by a family whose loved one gets that second chance at life. Although we were so happy his long wait was over, our hearts ached for the family who had lost someone close to them. Their sadness was just beginning and it is important to realize they need a great deal of care and attention. In no way would I try to encourage someone to be a donor, nor would I discourage someone who is considering it. It is very important to realize, however, what is being agreed upon and how those decisions will impact other wishes you may have. Typically, donating corneas and certain tissue will have minimal impact, if any, on the ability to have viewing of a person’s body. Larger organ donation, such as heart, lungs and kidneys also do little to impact one’s ability to view the body, although this does create a more difficult embalming process. You may encounter extra cost related to such from the funeral home

Occasionally, a person chooses to donate their whole body to a school or research facility. While the receiving institution will file the required paperwork with the state on behalf of the family, they do nothing to help a family create a meaningful and appropriate tribute, nor do they help a family fid ways to say “good-bye.” Ths is where family members can get stuck in the middle. There are numerous details that must be addressed, decisions made, and items tended to of which a funeral director is uniquely qualifid to help. Families have come to realize this, oftentimes in the 11th hour, when they want register books, service folders, a flag, an honor guard, flwers, and a reception following their memorial service at their church. Unfortunately, no plan to accomplish these things is thought of until the day before the service.

Funeral directors bring “life” to events that are necessary as a result of a death. While this may sound strange, funeral directors have the knowledge and experience to not only help a family arrange for things they want, but also suggest things a family might never think of doing that will add much to a memorial service. Funeral directors arrange for, carry out, and coordinate a number of details the general public never knows about. These behind-the-scene duties mostly go unnoticed because things are present where expected, previously arranged to be carried out, and available when needed. On the other hand, a memorial service without proper attention to detail will be lacking organization, direction, and a unique and personal tone.

Funeral homes today must prepare for changing needs from our client families. The traditional, cookie-cutter funeral does not meet the needs of the majority of the people any longer. While religious rites may change slightly, if at all, numerous other aspects surrounding death and the many options people demand are constantly changing. The successful funeral home of today listens to the needs of the consumer. The truly exceptional funeral homes of today anticipate those needs ahead of the consumer and have choices and solutions readily available to help families in a variety of different situations.

When you talk about your fial wishes, if those plans include donation, involve a funeral director in those discussions. If your funeral director does not include service offerings for families who choose donation, fid one who does.

with the Kids

By KIMBERLY BLAKER

What better way to spend quality time with your kids or grandkids and get in touch with nature than a fresh, invigorating walk in the woods, along a river, or the beach? What’s more, family hikes make for fun learning opportunities for the kids and adults alike.

A STONE IS A STONE IS A…MINERAL?

Go on an excursion to learn about rocks and minerals. Before you go, learn which rocks and minerals are abundant in the area, and have everyone choose several to scout for. Take along a small plastic container with dividers, a descriptive rock and mineral guide, and a magnifying glass for viewing the colors, layers, and details. As you identify stones and minerals, discuss their uses and other neat facts.

SOUNDS OF NATURE

Wander through the trees and listen carefully for a variety of bird and animal sounds. Before you go, visit your library for a DVD or audio CD of birds and wild animal calls. Then download an audio recorder on your phone and carry it on your hike to record some of the sounds you hear. Listen to the recording again at home and play a game of detective to determine the source of the sounds you can’t make out. Search the Internet and books to discover the makers of the mystery calls.

PHOTO ADVENTURE

Capture nature’s splendor. Hiking trails provide plenty of photo opportunities, and kids will love snapping the shots. Discuss in advance what each person wants to photograph, such as a huge oak tree, a monarch butterfly, deer tracks, or a close-up of a nibbling squirrel. When you get home, print out the best photos, and create a nature scrapbook with them.

TREE TALES

These giants of nature are not only intriguing because of their size but also because of their many variations. Borrow some books on trees from your library that describe the unique features of trees and their history. Use clues such as the shape of the leaves, texture of bark, and size of the trunk to identify the kind of tree.

WHICH WAY DO WE GO?

Roam the countryside and teach the kids directional skills such as how to read a map and use a compass or the sun to determine direction. Before setting out, choose a trail system that provides maps, or make up your own. Take a trail that branches offseveral times, allowing for plenty of skill-building opportunities. For even more fun, turn the excursion into a treasure hunt. Hide a small prize just offthe trail under a bush or pile of leaves, mark the location on your map, and let the journey begin.

ANIMALS ALL AROUND

Take a quiet hike in a wooded area with grassy clearings and see how many animals you meet. Watch for snakes, turtles, and geese if there’s a nearby lake or stream. Also, look for squirrels playing chase or gathering food; birds of prey circling overhead; or grazing rabbits and deer. Discuss the animal’s unique characteristics and how those qualities help or hinder the animal. Talk about what the animals eat, their shelters, and species they are related to. Also, keep eyes peeled for animal tracks to identify and determine how recently they were made.

CREEPY CRAWLY THINGS

Scouting for insects is an all-time favorite among kids, and the variety of creepy-crawly creatures in the woods is remarkable. Carry an insect book, clear container, tweezers, and a magnifying glass for close examination of insects’ fascinating features. Bring a journal and track the types of insects you fid. Read about insects’ defense behaviors and characteristics such as colors that indicate danger to predators.

PLANTLIFE, OLD AND NEW

Discover with the children the fantastic diversity of plant life. Before you head out, review some books on plants to spark your interest. On each hiking trip, choose a different trail or area and see what plants grow in certain types of soil, climates, and in each season. As you inspect plants, look for their seeds, and notice the variations. Talk about how seeds travel by blowing in the wind or catching on the fur of animals. Carefully brush away the ground cover and look for seeds that have sprouted their roots that will soon develop into a new plant or tree. Learn how individual plants have evolved to have natural defenses to protect against creatures that would otherwise devour them.

nearby trails:

DALLAS

Cedar Ridge Nature Preserve

Texas Buckeye Trail

Trinity Forest Trail

White Rock Lake Park Loop Trail

DENISON

Eisenhower State Park

GRAPEVINE

Northshore and Knob Hill Trails

FORT WORTH

Eagle Mountain Park

LEWISVILLE

Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area (LLELA)

MCKINNEY

Erwin Park Trail

PILOT POINT

Ray Roberts Lake State Park

PLANO

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve

Chisholm Trail

Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary

Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve

SHERMAN

Binkley Park and Herman Baker Park Loop

Prairie Loop

Raasch Trail

THE COLONY

Shoreline Trail

BEFORE YOU GO

Plan your activities before you leave so you’ll arrive prepared. For your comfort and convenience, carry a small daypack, extra clothing for cold air along trails, and don’t forget hiking boots. For your protection, bring along hats, sunglasses, sunblock, and insect repellant. Be prepared for emergencies by carrying a small flashlight and batteries, watch, map, bandages, and don’t forget plenty of water and snacks. Finally, make the most of your nature quest by carrying binoculars, a magnifying glass, and a small camera.

TREKKIN’ TIPS FOR TYKES

When hiking with children, keep these suggestions in mind.

• Allow small legs plenty of time for breaks and making the journey and know your kids’ limitations.

• Be familiar with potential dangers in the area in which you’ll explore and teach your kids trail and animal safety.

• Before you set out, prepare your kids by informing them that there may be rules against taking their nature fids home.

You might be surprised to discover nearby trails that you never knew existed. Check with city, county, and state parks and for trails along rivers or near lakeshores. There are also national forests and parks throughout the United States with extensive trail systems. If you have access to a wooded area near you that isn’t too dense, a trail may not be necessary. When hiking offtrails, use safety precautions to protect against tripping, poison ivy, getting lost, or other hazards. 3 3 3

WHERE TO FIND TRAILS

Andrew Chambers, M.D. Orthopedic Surgeon

Dr. Chambers is an orthopaedic surgeon at Dallas Orthopaedic Joint Institute who specializes in joint replacement surgery. He received extensive training in joint replacement surgery during his fellowship at Harvard Medical School / Massachusetts General Hospital, which was voted as the top hospital in the United States. Dr. Chambers has implemented the techniques learned at Harvard Medical School into his own practice and offers minimally invasive total hip / knee replacement, partial knee replacement, revision surgery for malfunctioning, loose, and infected joint replacements, arthroscopic surgery of the hip and knee, and revision of failed and recalled metal-on-metal total hip replacement implants. Dr. Chambers focuses special attention on surgical techniques for rapid recovery after total joint replacement which allow his patients a more predictable and earlier return to home and an active lifestyle.

Dr. Chambers is pleased to offer the MAKOplasty Robotic-Arm Assisted partial/total knee and hip replacement. The MAKOplasty procedure is changing the way joint replacement surgeries are performed by providing each patient with a personalized surgical experience based on their specific diagnosis and unique anatomy using a CT-based 3D modeling. The robotic arm technology allows for extremely precise placement of hip/knee components with potentially less soft tissue injury than traditional joint replacement.

Dr. Chambers is a Texas native and grew up in Houston, Texas. He attended medical school at The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, and completed residency at John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worth, Texas. He then completed a fellowship in joint replacement surgery at Harvard Medical School. In his free time, Dr. Chambers enjoys traveling with his wife, Christine, and spending time with friends and family. He is an avid sailor and enjoys participating in sailing races on the local lakes in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

Dr. Chambers practices at Methodist Dallas, Charlton, and Richardson Hospitals. To schedule an appointment please call or text 469-747-0382.

METHODIST DALLAS MEDICAL CENTER

221 W. Colorado Blvd., Pav II, Suite 431 Dallas, Texas 75208

METHODIST CHARLTON MEDICAL CENTER

3430 W. Wheatland Rd., POB 1, Suite 216 Dallas, Texas 75237

469-747-0382

469-405-0135 FAX dallasorthojoint.com