Collin County Living Well Magazine May-June 2023

COLLIN COUNTY

Stephen Courtney,P.MD ADVANCED SPINE CENTER

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

Southwest Foot & Ankle Center is a respected group of board certified foot and ankle surgeons. 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. The team at Southwest Foot & Ankle Center strive to make each patient’s experience personable. Our outcomes are of perfection and meticulous in surgery. As a result, patients from all over the country seek to be treated by DFW Wound Care Center.

Correction MIS—Minimally Invasive Surgery Heel Pain (Plantar Fasciitis) Stem Cell Therapy

Toenails

Custom Orthotics & Braces

Laser Therapy for Pain, Swelling, Arthritis, and Wounds

TRIUMPH OVER ADVERSITY

Welcome to another exciting edition of our magazine, where we explore the captivating journeys of remarkable individuals and share the wisdom of those who have discovered the secrets to a fulfilling life.

SPRING AND SAM HOUSTON

In this issue, we delve into the inspiring story of Dr. Stephen P. Courtney, an orthopedic spine surgeon whose unwavering dedication to his patients and passion for innovation have earned him a distinguished reputation in the medical field. Learn about Dr. Courtney’s humble beginnings, his groundbreaking work in spine biomechanics, and how he continues to transform the lives of his patients through cutting-edge treatments and compassionate care.

We also bring you an exclusive feature on the life and career of the legendary Shania Twain. With her magnetic stage presence, infectious tunes, and incredible resilience, Twain has become a symbol of triumph over adversity. Discover the challenges she faced, from a difficult upbringing to health issues that threatened to end her singing career, and how she has emerged stronger and more determined than ever.

In addition, our magazine offers a special article on the secrets to a happy marriage. We’ve curated two pages of heartwarming quotes from long-married couples, sharing their insights and experiences on how to nurture a lasting and loving partnership. This collection of wisdom is sure to inspire and guide those seeking to strengthen their own relationships.

Join us on this journey of exploration and inspiration, as we celebrate the lives and achievements of those who have overcome obstacles, discovered the keys to happiness, and continue to make a positive impact in the world. We hope you enjoy this issue as much as we have enjoyed putting it together for you. Happy reading!

Be well!

PRESIDENT & CEO

SAM HOUSTON

VICE PRESIDENT & CFO SPRING HOUSTON

EDITOR, FEATURE WRITER & SOCIAL MEDIA SONDRA BARR

ART DIRECTOR

VANESSA FRYER

ACCOUNTS MANAGER JENNIFER BEAVERS

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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.

SAM AND SPRING HOUSTON

When it comes to back or neck pain, knowing who to turn to for care is simple. At Texas Health Spine Specialists, our highly skilled spine specialists provide care from conservative treatments like physical therapy and medication management, to complex and minimally invasive spine surgery when needed. We can evaluate your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan to care for you. That's how Texas Health cares more.

Michael Catino, M.D.; Jennifer Zahn, M.D.

Stephen P. Courtney, MD

BOARD-CERTIFIED, FELLOWSHIP-TRAINED ORTHOPEDIC SPINE SURGEON PRACTICING FOR 27 YEARS.

For board-certified, fellowship trained orthopedic spine surgeon

Dr. Stephen P. Courtney, patients come first. It’s an ethos that developed early on in his life and one that has helped guide him in his journey to earn a distinguished reputation among his professional colleagues, medical peers and, most importantly, his patients.

Dr. Courtney began his medicine career from the ground up. While a teenager, he spent summers working in a rural north Louisiana hospital. As an orderly, he was an integral part of the hospital environment. While not a glorified job, cleaning bed pans, changing bed sheets, cleaning patient rooms, helping medical practitioners, and assisting patients, offered him an invaluable glimpse into the hard work and dedication necessary to succeed in the medical field. The job also served as the catalyst for his decision to pursue medical school.

Inspired by the patients he’s cared for there, Dr. Courtney made education a priority. He was salutatorian of his high school class and went on to graduate summa cum laude from Northeast Louisiana University. While at Louisiana State University Medical School, he utilized his summer to perform spine biomechanical tests on human spine cadavers utilizing pedicle screws. Considered cutting edge biomechanics and technology at that time, most spine surgeons didn’t even know they existed yet. However, Dr. Courtney performed one of the first biomechanical tests on those implants. It was a feat that earned him the Howmedica Biomechanic Award and the Louisiana Orthopedic Association Award. He also placed fourth in the World Congress for Student Research Competition.

Dr. Courtney’s residency at Texas A&M University Medical Center and further specialty training through a fellowship at Florida Neck & Back Institute in Gainesville, Florida, additionally cemented his strong medical foundation. From there, he continued to gain more knowledge and insight on how to help his patients with useful tools, while recognizing there was room for much improvement in the tools at hand.

This realization inspired Dr. Courtney to design, develop, biomechanically test, complete FDA testing and oversee quality control and validation on a host of tools he created. To date, Dr. Courtney has developed nine spinal product lines and obtained nine patents and 14 trademarks on spine related products.

When he’s not traveling the country training other physicians on how to utilize his products, Dr. Courtney dedicates himself to the patients of his own medical practice, Advanced Spine Center.

Led by Dr. Courtney, the skilled team at Advanced Spine Center cares for patients with neck and back pain using a wide array of the most state-of-the-art tools and techniques—from conservative physical therapy and injection therapy—to advanced pain manage-

ment, as well as surgical intervention. We employ the latest in minimally invasive spine surgeries, in addition to cutting-edge replacement technology. Incorporating both high tech and high touch, we get our valued patients back to their lives so they can enjoy all the activities they love.

The medical field is not the only arena in which Dr. Courtney excels. He approaches fitness with the same dedication and vigor he applies to medicine. In 2005, Dr. Courtney was in the top 10 of his age group in mountain biking in Texas. He also completed one of the largest cycling events in the country multiple times: the “Hotter’N Hell” race. Always up for a new challenge, from there, he began training to compete in triathlons.

Dr. Courtney trains for triathlons with the same focus he uses as a surgeon. Waking up at 4 a.m. six days per week to work out in his home gym, he never waivers from the goal at hand—exceeding his personal best. After successfully completing multiple triathlons, Dr. Courtney shows no signs of slowing down. He continues to train and looks forward to competing in many more triathlons.

“I think if you can survive a triathlon you are absolutely living well,” he says.

Paying attention to fitness is something he encourages his patients to consider, too. “People don’t have to be a tri-athlete to be healthy. I like to tell people you need to start small. Do something to be active. It can even be yard work—that’s a great workout too. As you get older especially, you need to be in tune with your body, monitor your calorie intake and be active. I encourage people to change slowly, start small, and find out what you like to do,” he says.

Sharing his wellness journey is part of the straight-forward, honest approach that puts his patients at ease and creates a trusting bond, an important element for the highly technical operations Dr. Courtney performs to help restore patients’ quality of life. As he learned early on, the single most important person in the treatment process is the patient and well-informed patients are more successful in following through on their rehabilitation and have better outcomes.

It’s a sentiment that his patients echo. “You don’t want to trust (your back) to just somebody that has his name on a door. You have to go to people that you trust. I talked to people and everybody trusted Dr. Stephen Courtney and I do too and I’d highly recommend him,” says Judy Jones, a lumbar fusion patient of Dr. Courtney’s.

“Above all, I believe in treating each and every patient I have with honesty, dignity, and respect. My patients come away from our shared interactions feeling confident, assured that they are truly in the best hands,” says Dr. Courtney, who always brings his A-game.

Incorporating both high tech and high touch, we get our valued patients back to their lives so they can enjoy all the activities they love.

SEE WHAT DR. COURTNEY’S PATIENTS HAVE TO SAY.

Natasha Hernandez

SURGERY: L5/S1 360° LUMBAR FUSION

“After having back surgery twice and being frustrated with the lack of care from my previous doctor, I made an appointment to see Dr. Courtney. He is one of the most humble, funny, laid back and coolest surgeons I’ve met. He makes you feel like family. His office staff is amazing. His clinic Eminent Medical Center, where he performs the procedures, is also a 5-star facility. Every staff member I have encountered there has been so caring and professional. I am so glad I decided to change doctors and meet Dr. Courtney. I can see his attention to detail and his caring personality every time I see him. Before my injections he took some time to chat and made me feel at ease since it’s always nerve wrecking to have any spinal procedure. I will be having surgery soon and even though I am nervous and scared I know I am in good hands, and I know Dr. Courtney and all his staff will take great care of me. Thanks, Dr. Courtney and thanks to all his staff.”

Irene Shelby

SURGERY: LEFT L5/S1 MICRODISCECTOMY

“My husband and I have been coming to Dr. Courtney for years. We trust him for all of our back issues here recently. I had a spinal condition and had no doubt that Dr. Courtney would be able to take care of this and make me fully normal again. He and his staff were amazing! From the moment I decided to move forward with the surgery option to the very last post-op appointment, Dr. Courtney and his staff have been nothing but pleasant, courteous, professional and extremely friendly and helpful. I encourage anyone who has any type of back pain to come to Dr. Courtney’s office He is the BEST!”

Deanna Noyes

SURGERY: C4/C5, C5/C6, C6/C7 ACF (ANTERIOR CERVICAL FUSION)

“Great medicine coupled with great care. Dr. Courtney takes the time to listen to your medical needs. He put me at ease regarding my condition.”

Holly Coffman

SURGERY: L5/S1 360° LUMBAR FUSION

“After struggling for 11 years with severe back pain, I found Dr. Courtney through a mutual friend. After the first visit, Dr. Courtney said he could fix my problem back pain and let me tell you HE DID! This 360° fusion has saved my life. Thank you, Doctor Courtney.”

Lori Juarez

SURGERY: L4/5, L5/S1 360° LUMBAR FUSION

“After years of learning to “live with the pain” I made an appointment with Dr. Courtney, expecting a drawn out wait time. I was shocked at the quick, friendly and professional attention I received from Dr. Courtney and his staff. After 5 years of life altering pain, I am able to keep up with twin toddlers and a 3-yearold grandbaby without a problem. From office to operating room, Dr. Courtney and his staff are the best at what they do.”

Stephen P. Courtney, MD

Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

Over 26 Years of Experience

Dr. Courtney is a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon located in Plano, Texas. A Louisiana native, he attended Louisiana State University for medical school, and completed residency at Texas A&M followed by a fellowship at the Florida Neck and Back Institute.

SPECIALTIES:

• Back Pain

• Neck Pain

• Spine Pain

• Disc Replacement

• Microdiscectomy

• Spinal Fusion

• Minimally Invasive Surgery

• Steroid Injections

• Physical Therapy

“I believe in treating each of my patients with honesty, dignity, and respect. My patients come away from our shared interactions feeling confident, assured that they are truly in the best hands. Throughout my career, I have remained laser-focused on providing world-class care and innovation to the patients I treat on a daily basis. I look forward to getting to know you!”

Voted Top Doc for Orthopedic Spine

Surgeon by Living Well Magazine readers 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022

2022

True Compassion

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.

TRUSTS

A PRIMER ON PROBATE

By LEU & PEIRCE, PLLC

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 beneficiary designations. Accounts with rights of survivorship or payable-on-death beneficiaries, 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. This 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 beneficiaries 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 beneficiaries.

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 first priority to serve as executor. However, the judge may refuse to appoint an individual named in the Will if the judge finds that person to be unsuitable.

Once the judge is satisfied 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 of behalf of the estate. The executor must issue notice to creditors, notify beneficiaries, and gather the assets, which the executor must safeguard until the time comes to distribute to the beneficiaries. 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 beneficiaries.

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. This 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.

AMIR MALIK, MD Neurosurgeon

STEVE HONG, MD Interventional Pain ManagementSpecialist

SLABISAK, MD Orthopaedic Spine Surgeon

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.

VUDHI

Dallas Pkwy., Ste. 105 Frisco, TX 75033

4333 N. Josey Ln. Professional Plaza II, Ste. 103 Carrollton, TX 75010

Strokes, Heart Attacks, and Vision Loss

Ophthalmologists Saving Eyes and Lives

Courtesy KEY-WHITMAN EYE CENTER

Ten years ago when Jane Adams* came to Key-Whitman Eye Center for a preoperative exam ahead of having LASIK eye surgery, she was unprepared for the life-changing news she’d leave with. Ophthalmologist Larry A. Fish discovered increased pressure in the back of her eyes, which suggested the possibility of a brain tumor. Dr. Fish explained, “Instead of giving Jane the all clear for LASIK, our team arranged for Jane to see a specialist in neuro-ophthalmology to find out if the pressure behind her eye was caused by a brain tumor or another neurological condition.”

Concerned about her health, Jane made an appointment to see the neuro-ophthalmologist immediately.

According to Jane, “While I didn’t have a brain tumor, the specialist discovered that I had a buildup of fluid and pressure around my eyes due to a condition known as pseudotumor cerebri.”

The symptoms of pseudotumor cerebri mimic those of a brain tumor, though no tumor is present. When the condition is left untreated, it is possible for fluid and pressure to continue to build up around the patient’s eyes. It is possible to lose sight as a result of high intracranial pressure.

There aren’t always red flags when it comes to serious health conditions.

Jane did not experience any unusual symptoms prior to visiting Key-Whitman.

Jane said, “I spent a lot of time on the computer for my job, so I thought the blurriness and double vision I experienced from time to time was normal. Fortunately, I went to Key-Whitman for that exam, otherwise, I could have lost my vision permanently.”

As with Jane’s neurological condition, there are many health issues that don’t come with any warning signs. However, eye doctors often diagnose serious health problems before primary care physicians.

For example, a patient’s eye exam can reveal symptoms of vascular disease. As Dr. Fish explains, “Emboli, cholesterol, and plaque can be visible in the small vasculature in the retina, which can indicate vascular disease. This scenario happened to be the case with a patient of mine.”

During the eye exam in question, Dr. Fish became concerned that his patient had a carotid artery problem and referred him to the

patient’s primary care doctor who arranged for a carotid Doppler imaging test.

“Sure enough, the test revealed the patient had occlusion of his carotid arteries, which required surgery. Had we not found vascular irregularities during the eye exam and the patient didn’t have surgery, he would have been at very high risk for a stroke. So, we may have prevented a stroke from happening just by doing an eye exam,” Dr. Fish says.

Eye exams reveal symptoms of common health conditions as well.

“Diabetes and high blood pressure are the two most common systemic conditions eye doctors find during routine eye exams,” says Dr. Fish.

Many people don’t know they are diabetic because they don’t have symptoms. However, when we examine their eyes, we see they have diabetic retinopathy, where the blood vessels in the retina are damaged. According to Dr. Fish, “We can also see vascular changes in the eye during a dilated eye exam, which may be signs of high blood pressure.”

An eye doctor will also look for eye diseases and conditions during an exam, many of which can lead to permanent vision loss.

A person with macular degeneration or glaucoma will not notice any symptoms until irreparable vision loss has occurred. This is why it’s so important to be screened regularly, especially if there is a family history of the disease.

There’s more to eye exams than protecting your eyes— they may even save your life.

The diagnosis of pseudotumor cerebri and ongoing management of the condition have allowed Jane to maintain her vision despite not being able to have LASIK surgery.

Moreover, she also believes her experience should be a wake-up call to people who underestimate the value of an eye exam.

In Jane’s opinion, “Because of my work and daily activities, I believed my symptoms were normal with no cause for concerns about my health. I appreciated the thoroughness of the eye exam because that is what led to my diagnosis. I’m so grateful to Key-Whitman for putting this on my radar.”

From left to right are: Leslie Pfei er, M.D.; Anita Jacob, O.D.; Kimberly Warren, M.D.; Sadaf Razi ElHa ar, O.D.,; Faisal Haq, M.D.

» Staffed by 2 Licensed, Doctors of Audiology

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Depression, Hearing Loss, and Treatment with Hearing Aids

Around the beginning of the 21st century, there were a half-dozen landmark studies about the relationship between untreated hearing loss and other health related issues. All which led to the insights about the possible benefit of hearing aids and aural (hearing) rehabilitation.

A review of the literature suggests complex but compelling association between hearing loss and depression. One study was done at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio in collaboration with a VA clinic. This study found of 194 hearing impaired participants (half of which were assigned to a waiting list group, therefore not receiving any hearing aid treatment; the other half were fit with hearing aids). Before the study began, 82% of subjects reported adverse effects of the quality of life due to hearing loss and 24% were depressed.

At a four-month follow up, the group that was treated with hearing aids showed significant score improvements for social and emotional function, communication function, cognitive function, and lessening of depression. This field trial established that hearing aids are a successful treatment for reversing social, emotional and communication dysfunctions caused by hearing loss. Additionally, it suggested that hearing aids may lead to improvements in cognition and depression. Two years later the study continued to show in 192 of the same participants, the quality-of-life benefit measures for social and emotional, communication, and depression were sustained.

Another significant study was the 1999 National Council on the Aging (NCOA) report on “The Consequences of Untreated Hearing Loss in Older Persons.” In a large-scale national survey of older Americans, the study quantified the social, psychosocial, and functional effects of hearing loss, with the goal of assessing the effects of hearing loss on quality of life and comparing these effects to those who wear or do not wear hearing aids. This cross-sectional, self- assessment survey was comprised of 2,304 hearing impaired individuals and 2,090 family members. The study concluded:

“Most users of hearing aids reported significant improvements in the quality of their lives since they began to use hearing aids. Half or more reported better relationships at home and improved feelings about themselves. Many also reported improvements in their confidence, independence, relations with children and grandchildren and view about life overall. Along every dimension, family members

of the hearing-impaired person were even more likely to report improvements. The majority of family respondents reported that use of hearing aids had resulted in improvements in terms of relations at home, feelings about themselves, life overall, and relations with children and grandchildren.”

In 2003, a review was published of all the studies done to date on the negative consequences of uncorrected hearing loss in the International Journal of Audiology. The findings were that uncorrected hearing loss represents an auditory disability involving reduced speech recognition ability, especially in difficult listening environments and reduced ability to detect, identify, and localize sounds. It was stated that this affects the lives of both the hearingimpaired person and significant others and that the hearing-impaired person may not always be aware of the consequences. It was also stated that uncorrected hearing loss gives rise to a poorer quality of life, related to isolation, reduced social activity, a feeling of being excluded, and increased symptoms of depression. The 14 major risk factors for depression are: alcohol dependence, anxiety, chronic pain, comorbid chronic medical conditions (hearing loss), female gender, hypomania or mania, nonresponsive to effective treatments for medical conditions, obstetric patients, psychosis, personal or family history of depression, recent childbirth, recent stressful events, substance misuse, and unexplained somatic symptoms.

Hearing loss has been associated with a dozen comorbidities, of which four were also significantly associated with the risk of depressionchronic artery disease, alcohol-related illness, anxiety, and stroke.

We think of the obvious effect of hearing loss with regard to communication difficulties. However, your hearing health contributes to your overall well-being and quality of life. Statistically, hearing loss is the third most prevalent chronic condition in older Americans after hypertension and arthritis. Aging also brings cognitive processing deficits that interfere with communication and can create distractions that lead to memory loss, falls, and other accidents. If hearing loss is strongly associated with depression, then, are hearing aids a possible method for treating depression in this population?

To hear better, is to live better! Start a better health and wellness conversation today! Better hearing health is possible! Call your audiologist today!

Courtesy HEARING SERVICES OF McKINNEY

Deandra M. Grant

Attorney Deandra M. Grant leads Hamilton Grant’s North, East and Central Texas offices. She is an international speaker on DWI law, science and trial skills. As the author of the annually updated Texas DWI Manual, she is viewed by her peers as being a leader in her field. Deandra understands the science behind alcohol absorption and elimination rates and can use this knowledge to competently defend you.

Deandra formerly was an assistant district attorney. Her tenure as a prosecutor focused on DWI prosecutions which has given her firsthand knowledge on how to counter the prosecutor’s evidence and strategy. Deandra has spent hundreds of hours in training courses and programs related to DWI defense and has completed the certification course to administer standard field sobriety testing (SFST), the same training course taught to police officers nationwide on how to identify drunk drivers during traffic stops. As a certified SFST Instructor, Deandra has taught the course to other attorneys. She’s also completed the coursework on DWI forensic blood and urine testing.

Co-Author

“I have a masters degree in pharmaceutical science and a graduate certificate in forensic toxicology. I am able to take apart evidence in ways a lot of other attorneys are not able to do. The most important part of my job is being the barrier between the government and my client. Standing between them. Making sure their rights are protected.”

–DEANDRA GRANT

of the Texas DWI Manual

JD, GC, MS

ShaniaTwain Queen of Country, Resilience, and Reinvention.

BY SONDRA BARR

Shania Twain is a name that is synonymous with an extraordinary journey of success, resilience, and reinvention. Known for her magnetic stage presence, catchy tunes, and record-breaking career, Twain has faced adversity throughout her life and conquered it with grace, determination, and sheer willpower.

Born Eilleen Regina Edwards in 1965 in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, Twain grew up in difficult circumstances. Her family lived in poverty, and she had to resort to singing in bars as a child to help support them.

“From the age of 8, I would go singing folk and country songs at clubs at the weekend. Sometimes even after midnight till two or three in the morning on a school night. I didn’t enjoy being in those places at all,” she told the Big Issue in 2007. “I developed a lot of stage fright. Sometimes there were strippers going on before me and by the time I went on everyone in there was quite drunk. It wasn’t an environment for a child.”

She also endured abuse throughout her turbulent childhood. In an interview with The Sunday Times, she divulged how she’d try to deflect the physical and sexual abuse for her late stepfather Jerry Twain.

“I hid myself and I would flatten my boobs,” she told the outlet. “I would wear bras that were too small for me, and I’d wear two, play it down until there was nothing girl about me. Make it easier to go unnoticed.” She added, “Because, oh my gosh, it was terrible—you didn’t want to be a girl in my house.”

Despite these hardships, she remained passionate about music and took every opportunity to develop her talent. Yet Twain continued to encounter adversity. Her parents died in a tragic car accident in 1987, leaving her to care for her younger siblings. In a 2011 interview with Oprah Winfrey, she said, “My music is the only thing that kept me going through all of that time. It was my therapy and my escape.”

Twain’s journey to superstardom began in earnest when she caught the eye of legendary music producer Robert John “Mutt” Lange. Together, they created her breakthrough 1995 album, The Woman in Me, which catapulted her to fame and set the stage for her record-shattering third album, Come on Over, in 1997. Come On Over became the best-selling country album of all time and secured Twain’s status as a global sensation.

“I don’t think I felt confident that I was going to make it until I made my first album with Mutt Lange, The Woman in Me [in 1995]. I wasn’t sure at the beginning if it would work, it was quite an unusual collaboration. Once it started, I felt that what we were creating was good but when we had real success with it [20 million global sales], that gave me a much greater confidence about the future,” she told the Big Issue. “After the release of Man! I Feel Like a Woman! it started getting so big. I just thought ‘wow, this is bigger than I ever imagined it could be.’”

Later in her career, Twain faced a series of health issues that threatened to end her singing days. In 2003, she was diagnosed with Lyme disease, which caused her to lose her voice due to vocal cord damage. “It took years to get to the bottom of what was affecting my voice,” she told

the British talk show Loose Women. “And I would say probably a good seven years before a doctor was able to find out that it was nerve damage to my vocal cords directly caused by Lyme disease.”

In an interview with Rolling Stone, she said, “I had to accept that it might never come back, but I never gave up.”

Twain underwent extensive therapy and learned to sing again, making an impressive comeback with her 2017 album, Now

Throughout her career, Twain has been the subject of plastic surgery rumors. While she has never confirmed undergoing any procedures, she has maintained that her transformation over the years is simply the result of her evolving style and self-care. In a 2019 interview with The Guardian, she said, “I’m not one of those people who say, ‘Oh, I wish I could go back to when I was 20.’ I’m not nostalgic for my youth.”

In recent years, Shania Twain has been actively involved in philanthropic activities, giving back to the community in various ways. In 2010, she established the Shania Kids Can Foundation (shaniakidscan.com), aimed at helping underprivileged children in the areas of nutrition, education, and personal development. The foundation’s work is inspired by Twain’s own childhood experiences and her understanding of the importance of a supportive environment for children in need. “I know that if a helping hand had been extended to me as a child, my life would have been different,” she said during an interview with Hello! Canada about the foundation.

Twain’s current projects reflect her ongoing dedication to her art and her fans. She released her sixth studio album Queen of Me in February of this year.

“This new record is fun and celebrative, really on the other side of Now,” Twain said in a Rolling Stone Musicians on Musicians interview. “I’m happy in my own skin. I’m celebrating that feeling, less apologetic for who I am and what I’ve become. This is me, and I like myself.”

She added: “A lot of it was written during the pandemic. There’s nothing better for me than to not have enough to do, because the first thing I do is pick up my guitar and start songwriting. Now I’ve got four albums’ worth. I’m not kidding.”

Twain embarked on a worldwide tour in April to support her new album, giving fans the chance to experience her infectious energy and powerful performances once again. In a recent social media post, she shared her excitement about hitting the road: “I can’t wait to get back on stage, connect with my fans, and share my new music with the world. We’re going to have so much fun!”

Despite the numerous trials and tribulations she has faced throughout her life, Twain’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and believing in oneself. As she continues to redefine her musical legacy and make a difference through her philanthropic work, Twain remains an inspiration to millions around the globe.

In the words of the queen of country pop herself, from her hit song Up!: “When everything is goin’ wrong, don’t worry, it won’t last for long. Yeah, it’s all gonna come around. Don’t go let it get you down. You gotta keep on holding on.” Shania Twain’s journey is a beautiful reminder that with determination, hard work, and a positive attitude, anything is possible, even in the face of adversity.

As we celebrate her incredible accomplishments, we look forward to the next chapter in Twain’s illustrious career, confident that she will continue to grace us with her exceptional talent and indomitable spirit.

“I’m not one of those people who say, ‘Oh, I wish I could go back to when I was 20.’ I’m not nostalgic for my youth.”

PREMIER SURGEON

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A MEANINGFUL AND APPROPRIATE FUNERAL

By RICK ALLEN

In the past, funerals followed a uniform template. Cremation was less common, and after visitations or wakes, ornate funerals with open caskets and numerous floral arrangements were held in churches. Pastors delivered heartfelt messages of hope and encouragement, often accompanied by beautiful live music. Cars would then form a procession, escorted by police, to the cemetery for a committal service. Flowers were placed on the grave, and a permanent memorial was later established for future visits on special occasions, like birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays, to honor the deceased.

Nowadays, many people barely have time to acknowledge a death, let alone devote several days to planning and attending a funeral and burial. However, the pain of loss and the grieving process remain unchanged. Some may try to avoid sadness by pretending the death didn’t occur, but this denial can exacerbate the situation rather than provide relief.

What happened to the tradition that once offered solace, comfort, and closure? As a funeral director, I’ve had conversations with clients pre-planning their services and often heard stories about negative

experiences at funerals, including unpleasant viewings, drawn-out ceremonies, family disputes, and uncomfortable attire. To alleviate such burdens, many people seek alternatives for their loved ones.

Most still recognize the value of a meaningful, appropriate, and affordable event after a death. Traditional funeral elements can still hold significance, even for those choosing cremation. A service may include secular music and multiple eulogies, sometimes led by family members without clergy involvement. Personal memorabilia displays and video tributes are now common, with many families incorporating food and beverages. These contemporary funerals often resemble social events rather than somber gatherings, with a focus on celebrating the deceased’s life and remembering shared moments.

As attitudes evolve and the significance of once-permanent customs shifts, it’s important to recognize that change isn’t inherently negative. With funerals, there’s no universal right or wrong. It’s about choosing what makes sense for the individuals involved and what will help those grieving to heal and move forward. Ultimately, that’s the purpose of a funeral.

At Orthopedic Institute of North Texas, your medical issues and concerns are our top priority. We demonstrate this by answering all questions, providing availability 24/7 during diagnosis, treatment and recovery, speaking in terms you can understand and discussing every step of your medical care to ensure you feel comfortable and confident that we will deliver the best surgical expertise with the best outcome. For more information, visit Orthopedic Institute of North Texas at www.oint.org or call 972-5916468.

Christopher Kowalski, MD

Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

• Minimally invasive spine surgery

• Complex revision spine surgery

• Spinal deformity correction surgery

• Cervical disc replacement

• Anterior/posterior cervical fusion

• Posterior cervical foraminotomies

• Lumbar microdiscectomy

• Lumbar laminectomy

• Lumbar fusion

• Anterior lumbar fusion

• Lateral lumbar fusion

Brian Nwannunu, MD, MS

Brian Nwannunu, MD, MS, is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee replacement. He care for patients at Texas Joint Institute in McKinney, Texas.

Dr. Nwannunu, a native of Dallas, graduated Valedictorian from the High School for Health Professions at Townview Magnet Center in DISD. He then earned his bachelor’s degree in Biology at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, where he was part of the Morehouse College Honors Program. Upon graduation, he completed his master’s degree in Physiology at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., with a concentration on complementary and alternative medicine. Dr. Nwannunu then graduated with his medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine in Washington, D.C., where he was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society.

Dr. Nwannunu completed his residency in orthopedic surgery at the John Peter Smith Health Network in Fort Worth, Texas, before pursuing additional training with a fellowship in adult reconstruction at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. In addition to his clinical training, Dr. Nwannunu enjoys mission work abroad, providing medical care and health education to populations in need.

He is a member of the American Medical Association, National Medical Association, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons.

When not working, Dr. Nwannunu enjoys basketball, weight training, outdoor activities, attending art and music festivals, traveling, world news, and reading.

ROGERS , RN, BSN, CHPN, CHPO, MBA, is a leading voice in health care and senior services and the Vice President, Chief Nursing Officer of VNA Texas.

Dear Olivia,

There is a lot of talk about palliative care and all the other options out there (private duty, home health, hospice, etc.). It has become very confusing for families to understand what care is appropriate for their loved one. Do they need home health, do they need private duty, do they need palliative care or do they need hospice care? It’s all too much! Please, can you help me understand it a little better?

-Care Option Overload

Dear Care Option Overload, Care options have indeed become very complicated! VNA is here to help. Here is a brief summary of each one. Home health is appropriate for rehabilitative services when someone is too ill, has just had surgery or a procedure, or has another disability that does not allow them to leave home for therapy. The goal here is to improve their health and function. Private duty services, delivered through a nurse or home health aide,

vnatexas.org

are appropriate when a person needs help with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, medication management, housekeeping, or other personal care services. Palliative care, or what VNA calls Supportive Palliative Care, is needed when a person has a serious or complex illness that requires symptom management. The person may or may not be at the end of life, but they need help to alleviate suffering. This care is delivered by a comprehensive team; VNA’s Supportive Palliative Program is called Care Choices. Likewise, hospice services are delivered by a comprehensive team to alleviate suffering. Hospice Care is specifically for those nearing the end of life. Hospice provides support to not only the patient but the entire family. The goal of hospice is symptom management and holistic, patient-centered care that meets the needs of the whole person at the end of life. I hope this very brief summary helps!

~Olivia

To schedule your free in-home informational visit please call (214) 689-0000 or email gethelp@vnatexas.org For volunteer opportunities please call (214) 689-2271 or email volunteer@vnatexas.org

Hospice & Supportive Palliative Care

OLIVIA

David Shau, MD/MBA

Texas Hip and Knee Center Fellowship Co-Director and Faculty at the Anne Burnett Marion School of Medicine at Texas Christian University

Dr. David Shau is a native Texan, born in Fort Worth, TX. He graduated high school in Flower Mound, TX, and attended the University of Texas at Austin, where he studied biomedical engineering. Dr. Shau then ventured out-of-state to work at leading academic orthopedic surgery centers, including Vanderbilt University, Emory University, and University of California, San Francisco, before being recruited to return home to practice at the premier DFW joint replacement group, the Texas Hip and Knee Center (THK).

Dr. Shau has quickly built his practice through connecting with his community, committing to quality service, and delivering excellent patient care. He utilizes a variety of techniques and approaches for hip and knee care, including direct anterior hip replacements, and offers technology-assisted surgeries, such as Mako Technology for partial and total joint replacements. He also specializes in revision joint surgeries and enjoys complex, challenging cases. As a result of dedicating himself to his craft, his partners at THK promoted him to Fellowship Co-Director early in his practice. Dr. Shau also serves as a Physician Development Coach and is an Assistant Professor at the Burnett School of Medicine at TCU, where he enjoys his roles as a teacher, mentor, and coach.

In his free time, he enjoys food, sports, music, and spending time with his wife and daughter. For more information on Dr. Shau’s care philosophy and the techniques/approaches offered for hip and knee care, please visit DavidShauMD.com.

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 | MARK MASHNI, DPM, AACFAS | MITCH WILLIAMS, DPM

FLORIAN DIBRA, MD

Florian Dibra, MD is an Orthopaedic Surgeon who provides extensive knowledge in hip and knee orthopedics. He treats operative and non-operative hip and knee arthritis. He specializes in minimally invasive muscle-sparing total hip and knee replacement, anterior hip replacement, partial knee replacement, robotic joint replacement, and complex revision hip and knee replacement.

Dr. Dibra graduated with honors from Villanova University in Pennsylvania. Soon after, he received his medical degree, with cum laude honors from the esteemed Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He completed his orthopedic surgery training at the University of Florida. He continued at the University of Florida Health Hospital to complete his fellowship in Adult Arthroplasty with an emphasis in hip and knee reconstruction. During Dr. Dibra’s surgical training, he accomplished several publications, book chapters, and poster presentations.

Dr. Dibra’s family consists of his wife and two children. In addition to English, he is fluent in Albanian, Italian, and proficient in Spanish.

The Future of Surgery is Here

Nicholas E. Martin, MD, MBA is an orthopedic surgeon with the Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine Institute (OSMI). Dr. Martin joined OSMI after being a staff orthopedic surgeon in the Department of Orthopedics, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Ohio where he completed his Fellowship in Adult Hip and Knee Reconstruction. Dr. Martin grew up locally in Arlington, TX, completed his undergraduate degree at Texas Tech University, and then graduated with honors from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in Dallas.

Dr. Martin specializes in hip and knee joint replacement surgery with an emphasis on the minimally invasive anterior hip approach and Mako robotic assisted joint replacement surgery.

Mako Robotic-Assisted vs. Conventional Joint

Replacement Surgery

• Less pain

• Faster recovery time

• Smaller incision

• Shorter hospital stay OSMI Mansfield

305 Regency Parkway, Suite 405, Mansfield, TX 76063 (817) 529-1900 • www.osmifw.com

Secrets to a Happy Marriage

Quotes from Long-Married Couples

By SUE GROVE

Marriage is one of the most significant commitments a person can make in their lifetime. While the wedding day is often viewed as the culmination of the journey, the real work begins after the ceremony. Building a strong and happy marriage takes effort, dedication, and plenty of communication. Fortunately, there is a wealth of wisdom to be gleaned from couples who have been married for many years. Each of these quotes represents a valuable piece of advice that can help newlyweds and long-time couples alike navigate the ups and downs. Whether you’re just starting out on your marital journey or have been together for decades, I hope you find a little advice nugget that will inspire you.

“Never go to bed angry.”

-Phyllis and Bernie Kamen, married for 57 years

“Always treat

each other with kindness and respect.”

-Barbara and George Bush, married for 73 years until George’s passing

“Always listen to what the other person has to say.”

-Barack and Michelle Obama, married for over 29 years

“Laugh together, stay curious, and be open to new experiences.”

-Stan and Jan Berenstain, married for 59 years until Stan’s passing

“Compromise is key.”

-Rita Wilson and Tom Hanks, married for over 33 years

“Remember that love is a choice, not just a feeling.”

-Joyce Meyer and Dave Meyer, married for 54 years

“Never stop pursuing each other.”

-Chip and Joanna Gaines, married for over 18 years

“Respect

each other’s differences.”

-Michael J. Fox and Tracy Pollan, married for over 32 years

“Be each other’s safe place.”

-Tia and Cory Hardrict, married for over 13 years

“Communicate openly and honestly.”

-Warren and Betsy Talbot, married for over 24 years

“Make your relationship a priority.”

-Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick, married for over 33 years

“Be willing to forgive and let go of grudges.”

-Tom and Rita Savarese, married for over 60 years

“Find joy in the little things.”

-Jim and Nancy Dornan, married for over 50 years until Jim’s passing

“Don’t be afraid to seek help when you need it.”

-Jay and Katherine Wolf, married for over 13 years

“Hold hands often.”

-Paul and Mary Kay Hunt, married for over 50 years

“Be each other’s biggest cheerleader.”

-Dolly Parton and Carl Dean, married for over 55 years

Diane S. Litke, MD Diplomate American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery

Dr. Litke is a passionate artist, both in her spare time and as an orthopaedic surgeon. At L&W Orthopaedics, she approaches every orthopaedic problem with an eye toward restoration of function and mobility. With a deep knowledge of the inner workings of the body’s most active and important joints, Dr. Litke is able to repair most hip, knee, and shoulder problems, giving her patients the freedom to move again. 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 of her patients.

Dr. Litke earned her medical degree at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. She went on to complete her orthopaedic residency at the University of South Carolina in Columbia South Carolina. She is certi ed by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery, and is a Fellow of American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery and a Fellow of the American Associaion of Hip and Knee Surgeons. Dr. Litke is the medical director of the Orthopedic Department for Methodist Health System and is a liated with the Methodist Richardson Medical Center, where she is the director of the joint program. When she’s not working, Dr. Litke enjoys photography and cycling.

Please call 972.498.4791 to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Diane S. Litke, MD

Deandra M. Grant

Leaders in DWI Defense NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED DWI LAW FIRM

Have you been arrested? Whether you have been charged with DWI in Texas or another criminal offense, we advise you to secure the immediate representation of our experienced DWI lawyers. Your charges can have life-altering consequences. It is of the utmost importance that following an arrest, you hire our Dallas criminal defense lawyer. We will stop at nothing in order to protect your rights, freedom, and future. At Hamilton Grant PC, you will receive the individualized support and tenacious advocacy that you require in order to combat your criminal charges.

Because we care deeply about helping as many people as we can, our Texas DWI & criminal attorneys also represent clients in Collin County and throughout northern Texas.

Hamilton Grant’s North, East and South Texas offices are led by Attorney Deandra Grant*, JD, GC, MS, one of the most awarded and respected DWI authorities in the country. She is co-author of The Texas DWI Manual, certified in the science and testing of DWI enforcement, and respected by her peers as being a leader in her field.