Dallas County Living Well Magazine March-April 2023

DALLAS COUNTY

MARCH/APRIL 2023

More Inside

WHEN IT’S TIME TO DECLUTTER

WHAT’S IN YOUR COFFEE?

LAWYER TO LEADING MAN

PREMIER SURGEON

Total

Total

Partial

Total

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

LEGAL EAGLES

Looking for an exceptional legal professional?

We’ve got the inside scoop on local attorneys who’re leaders in their respective areas of law. From elder law to criminal law, from family law to copyright law and more, the attorneys featured in our annual Top Lawyer’s issue for 2023 are at the top of their game. Look to them for expert legal advice when you need it most. Get all the details about these high achievers on pages 46 through 63.

SPRING AND SAM HOUSTON

Speaking of lawyers, there’s one currently starring in the hit movie Plane. Can you guess who we’re referring to? If your answer is Gerard Butler, give yourself a pat on the back. Few people know that before he was a household name, Butler excelled as a law student at the University of Glasgow, where his legal prowess earned him a vaunted position as president of the Law Society.

Unlike the top lawyers featured in this issue, Butler realized his true passion had less to do with legalese and more to do with acting and storytelling. Chucking his hard-earned degree by the wayside, Butler enrolled in the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama. As his films aptly demonstrate, Butler’s rugged good looks, natural charisma, and talent for acting are undeniable. No doubt, they would have served him well in court, but then we wouldn’t have Gerard Butler, the Hollywood star. Turn to page 8 to learn more about his movie star trajectory.

Switching gears, we address an issue that many of us grapple with in our everyday lives— clutter. It’s an especially important topic to discuss as we get older, especially if downsizing homes. Letting go of belongs can be difficult, especially if there’s a strong emotional attachment to possessions. Yet, as writer Holly Vi explains, there are benefits to parting ways with stuff. And, while the decluttering may seem daunting, she has tips and advice to make the process easier for you and your family. Get her insight on page 24.

Next, we turn to the subject of coffee—that morning pick-me-up that so many people rely on to get their “motors” running in the a.m. As it turns out, your daily cup of java can contain harmful toxins that can have negative health effects over time. From pesticides to mold to mycotoxins, get the run down on safe, toxin-free coffee on page 32.

Be well!

Living Well Living

MARCH/APRIL 2023

PRESIDENT & CEO

SAM HOUSTON

VICE PRESIDENT & CFO SPRING HOUSTON

EDITOR, FEATURE WRITER & SOCIAL MEDIA

SONDRA BARR

ART DIRECTOR

VANESSA FRYER

ACCOUNTS MANAGER

JENNIFER BEAVERS

WEBSITE

LYDIA ROGERS

ADVERTISING & SALES

TEXAS: Denton County, Dallas County, Collin County

TEXAS & OKLAHOMA: Texoma Area

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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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SAM AND SPRING HOUSTON

Kwame Ennin, M.D.

Karim Elsharkawy, M.D.

Richard Reitman, M.D.

Roger Emerson, M.D.

Dear Olivia,

There are many emotions that come along with deciding to put a family member on hospice, and then even more at a loved one’s passing. My family is curious about what type of resources are available for those struggling with the loss of a loved one. Where can we turn during this difficult time?

-Living with Loss

Dear Living with Loss,

The grief and loss experience is unique for each individual impacted by someone’s passing away, but no one should go through the grief process alone. At the Visiting Nurse Association (VNA), we have licensed social workers, chaplains, and counselors available to help families navigate the grief and loss process. We have a quarterly bereavement

newsletter called Sharing the Journey, as well as other resource information on our website vnatexas.org. Our bereavement coordinators help families process the changes that come with loss, and they can offer additional community support resources as well, which are listed on the VNA website. Please take a look and contact us for any further information.

~Olivia

Scan the QR code to view our article. Coping with Change and Loss

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.

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

OLIVIA 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.

By Sondra Barr

From Lawyer to Leading Man Gerard Butler

Gerard Butler is a name that has become synonymous with Hollywood stardom. With his rugged good looks, natural charisma, and talent for acting, he has captured the hearts of audiences all over the world. However, few people know that before he was a household name, Butler had a successful career as a lawyer. So how did this Scottish-born legal professional leap to becoming one of the most sought-after actors in the industry?

Growing up in Glasgow, Scotland, Butler was always interested in law. He went on to study law at the University of Glasgow, and after graduation, he worked as a trainee solicitor at a law firm.

“I wasn’t going to be an actor. I was going to be a lawyer,” explained Butler to Esquire’s Cal Fussman. “I came from a family just above working class, just below middle class, a great family of wonderful values. The idea of me having a chance for a law degree was enticing. Enticing to me but also very enticing to my family. ‘Wow, one of our own is studying law at university!’”

However, as much as he enjoyed his job, he couldn’t shake the feeling that something was missing. It was then that he realized that his true passion was acting.

“I’ve always kind of had the luck of the devil, even in law school. I kind of blagged my way into the position of president of the Law Society. I’m not the most academic of guys. Considering the amount of work that I put in, it’s amazing that I got through law school. And with an honors degree,” he said.

“I loved my job as a lawyer, but I always felt like there was something missing in my life. I have always been interested in acting and storytelling, and I felt like it was time for me to pursue my dream.”

So, in the late 1990s, Butler made the difficult decision to leave his job and pursue a career in acting. He enrolled in the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama and began training to become an actor. It was a challenging time for Butler, who was starting over in a new field, but he was determined to make it work.

“It was a big risk for me to leave my job and pursue acting, but I knew that it was something that I had to do. I was scared, but I was also excited to see where this new journey would take me,” the 53-year-old actor recalled.

Butler’s dedication and hard work paid off, and he quickly made a name for himself in the acting world. He started with small roles in various television shows and movies including Mrs. Brown (1987), the James Bond film Tomorrow Never Dies (1997), and Tale of the Mummy (1998). He also appeared in Reign of Fire with Christian Bale (2002) and Lara Croft: Tomb Raider—The Cradle of Life with Angelina Jolie (2003) before being cast as The Phantom in Joel Schumacher’s 2004 film adaption of the musical The Phantom of the Opera. Yes, this Scottish lad can sing!

I loved my job as a lawyer, but I always felt like there was something missing in my life. I have always been interested in acting and storytelling, and I felt like it was time for me to pursue my dream.

I feel incredibly lucky to have been able to pursue my passion for acting. It has been a long and challenging journey, but it has also been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

From there, it wasn’t long before he landed his big break. In 2006, Butler starred in the epic action movie 300. His portrayal of King Leonidas earned him critical acclaim and widespread recognition, propelling him to the forefront of the Hollywood scene. He earned nominations for an Empire Award for Best Actor and a Saturn Award for Best Actor, and a win for MTV Movie Award for Best Fight for his role.

“I feel a lot of my acting skills came when I was training as a lawyer because every day was a performance to me. I was pretending to be a type of character in the office that really wasn’t myself, as if I was somebody of that ilk who was interested and curious and passionate. In truth, I wasn’t really. It had its moments, but so does a root canal,” Butler explained to Jetset Magazine in 2018.

In the ensuing years, Butler has become one of the most sought-after actors in the industry, appearing in several critically acclaimed films and blockbuster hits. He has demonstrated his versatility as an actor, taking on a wide range of roles, from action heroes to romantic leads. He has been praised for his natural charisma, ability to bring depth and nuance to his characters, and unwavering commitment to his craft.

When asked about his journey from lawyer to leading man, Butler is humble and grateful. “I feel incredibly lucky to have been able to pursue my passion for acting. It has been a long and challenging journey, but it has also been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life,” he said.

Butler is also known for his humanitarian efforts. He has been involved with various charities and causes, including Mary’s Meals, a Scottish-based international charity that runs feeding programs for children in schools across the globe. The actor even traveled to Liberia in 2013 and Haiti in 2018 to visit schools and spread the word about the charity.

He told the Daily Record, “First and foremost, we should be finding peace in ourselves and then finding somewhere, some place to be of service. Once you start doing that, you realize the value and the soulfulness in that because it’s really kind of find that passion where you can make a difference or where you can just contribute.”

The actor has also been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, speaking out about his struggles with depression after a series of health problems that left him doubting his career.

“During this last three years, I’ve had a bunch of stuff going on health-wise, that at one point made me reconsider my whole career,” Butler told News.com in 2020. Among those issues included a motorcycle accident in Los Angeles in 2017 that left him hospitalized and being treated for diverticultitis—a digestive condition that causes small bulges to develop in the large intestine lining—that he was treated for in 2018 at a hospital in the Dominican Republic.

He also had a “surgery that went wrong,” which turned into “seven surgeries,” he explained to News.com. “I thought, ‘Am I only going to leave my movies behind?’” he questioned.

Yet, the near-death experience imparted on Butler a fresh outlook on life. “It made me really appreciate how precious life is because I could have landed any number of ways that would have taken me out,” he said to Entertainment Tonight.

Butler’s journey from lawyer to leading man to philanthropist is an inspiration to many people to make a change in their lives. He proves that it is never too late to follow your dreams and that with hard work anything is possible.

Looking to the future, Butler has no plans of slowing down, regardless of the risks. Currently, you can see him in the action film Plane. In the movie, Butler plays widowed pilot Brodie Torrance, who must save passengers from dangerous rebels on a war-torn island, with the help of an accused murderer. He also has several exciting projects on the horizon, including the highly anticipated action movie Kandahar, set for a May 26, Memorial Day weekend release.

ABOVE: The Bounty Hunter (2010); Columbia Pictures • Greenland (2020); STX Films RIGHT: Law Abiding Citizen (2009); Overture Films • BELOW: 300 (2007); Warner Bros.

RIGHT: Machine Gun Preacher (2011); Mpower Pictures BELOW: Plane (2023); Lionsgate • Olympus Has Fallen (2013); Millennium Films

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

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

True Compassion

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

WHAT IS “Elder Law?”

By LEU & PEIRCE ELDER LAW ATTORNEYS

“Elder Law” is a relatively new area of focus within the legal community. Attorneys who practice Elder Law have committed themselves to helping seniors plan for the issues they will face as they age. In recent years, the demand for attorneys focused on this area of the law has only increased. With 10,000 people turning 65 every day and advancements in medical technology allowing people to live longer than ever before, access to long-term health care is becoming increasingly more complicated and expensive.

Attorneys who primarily work with seniors appreciate the complex financial, social, and health-related decisions their clients face. Elder Law attorneys bring to their practice a unique knowledge of their client base that allows them to provide a roadmap for the aging process, coupled with compassion for the inevitable difficulties along the journey. Moreover, Elder Law attorneys often have connections to a community of support agencies and organizations, such as geriatric care managers, psychologists, and other professionals who may be of assistance to seniors and their families.

Elder Law encompasses many different fields of law, including the following:

Estate Planning. Everyone should plan for the future, regardless of their income or asset level. Books and websites with pre-printed forms are not always up to date, and documents available from these sources may not work in your state or meet your goals. Elder Law attorneys have special training and expertise in estate and disability planning and are sensitive to the special needs of seniors and their families. A comprehensive estate plan includes several documents that work together to ensure that your wishes are followed and that trusted individuals are in place to assist you if you are no longer able to act for yourself, including the following:

• A Will declares your intentions regarding the distribution of your property after you die.

• A Durable Power of Attorney appoints an agent to act on your behalf regarding financial and legal matters.

• A Medical Power of Attorney appoints an agent to make health care decisions for you, if you are unable to do so yourself.

• A HIPAA Release and Authorization names individuals who may access your health information.

• A Directive to Physicians (Living Will) provides direction to your agent under the medical power of attorney regarding your desires concerning life-sustaining treatment.

• A Declaration of Guardian names individuals you trust to be appointed your guardian, if necessary, as well as individuals who should never be appointed.

Public Benefits (Medicaid/VA). Available healthcare choices depend on your specific situation and needs. Elder Law attorneys can help ensure the proper level of care and explore payment options and eligibility for public benefits.

Guardianship. If you become unable to make important decisions for yourself, or are subject to exploitation by unscrupulous people, it may be necessary for a court to appoint a guardian. Elder Law attorneys can help you determine if a guardianship over your loved ones is necessary or whether other alternatives are available.

Probate/Estate Administration. After the death of a loved one, the legalities involved in distributing the estate can seem overwhelming. If title to assets needs to be transferred, a probate proceeding will usually be required. The type of proceeding depends on whether a valid Will exists, the details of its terms, the existence of debts, and the value of the estate. Elder Law attorneys can help you understand and evaluate your options.

Elder Law attorneys specialize in assisting seniors and their families address the complicated legal issues related to financial and medical care. Because of their concentration in this area, attorneys whose sole focus is Elder Law are more likely to have the legal tools and techniques necessary to meet the objectives of an older client. The Elder Law attorneys at Leu & Peirce, PLLC believe that education is one of the greatest benefits we can provide our clients and their families. Arming our clients with knowledge about options available to meet their care needs allows them to move through the aging process with confidence. If you or someone you love needs to visit with an Elder Law attorney, referrals can be found through local agencies and support programs, such as the Alzheimer’s Association, State or local Bar organizations, or the website for the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (www.naela.org).

Lori A. Leu, Erin W. Peirce, and Lauren E. Olson are Elder Law attorneys with Leu & Peirce, PLLC in Plano, Texas.  For more information, call 972-996-2540 or visit www.leulawfirm.com.

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!”

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.

Foot and Ankle Surgery

Bunion and Hammer Toe Correction

MIS—Minimally Invasive Surgery

Heel Pain (Plantar Fasciitis) Stem Cell Therapy

Neuropathy

Ingrown Toenails Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Diabetic Foot Care Flat Feet Trauma Wound Care

Custom Orthotics & Braces

Laser Therapy for Pain, Swelling, Arthritis, and Wounds

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

LEWISVILLE CLINIC 502 N. Valley Pkwy., #2 Lewisville, TX 750067

N. Hampton Rd. De Soto, TX 75115

Groundbreaking treatments for Dry Eyes

Courtesy KEY-WHITMAN EYE CENTER

If you’re suffering from discomfort due to dry eyes, you’re certainly not alone. Dry Eye disease is a common issue affecting up to 49 million Americans. This chronic condition can have a vast effect on your quality of life, causing a foreign body sensation in your eyes, pain, blurry vision, and dry or watery eyes. If left untreated, it may lead to further eye health complications.

You’ll be glad to learn there are new powerful treatments to provide relief. Our practice at Key-Whitman Eye Center is experienced in treating dry eye symptoms using modern, groundbreaking technology.

What is OptiLight?

As part of our dry eye package of treatments we’re pleased to offer OptiLight by Lumenis, which is specially designed for dry eye management. OptiLight by Lumenis is a light-based, non-invasive treatment done in the area below the eyes to manage dry eye. The first and only IPL FDA-approved for dry eye management. The treatment is safe, gentle, and backed by more than twenty clinical studies.

OptiLight uses precise pulses of light to lessen the inflammation that is typically related with dry eye disease, improve tear break-up time, and increase meibomian gland functionality. This treatment can significantly relieve dry eye symptoms and has a number of important benefits:

• Increasing tear break-up time

• Reducing the amount of demodex mites and bacteria living around your eyes

• Eliminating blood vessels that contribute to inflammation

• Improving meibomian gland functionality

What to Expect

After your eye doctor diagnoses your dry eye by assessing your tear production and quality, they will develop a comprehensive treatment plan specifically for you, which may include OptiLight. When you arrive for your OptiLight treatment, ensure you arrive makeup-free. Your doctor will clean your face before treatment, so coming with a clear face makes it easier to begin your treatment.

This treatment is quick and simple. During the treatment your doctor will apply a coupling gel on the treatment area and cover your eyes with shields. As light is applied to the skin, you may experience a warm sensation. The treatment is gentle with minimum discomfort. The treatment itself will only take 10–15 minutes. OptiLight is often followed by meibomian gland expression.

Your skin will be sensitive after treatment. You might feel a burning sensation and notice a slight discoloration of the treatment area in the days following treatment. Your doctor will recommend avoiding harsh cleansers for three days following treatment. Make sure you use SPF-30 or higher-rated sunscreen on your face when you go outside.

Your Custom Treatment Plan

A course of treatment typically includes four sessions spaced two to four weeks apart. Relief for dry eye symptoms starts with understanding your unique lifestyle and vision needs. Your doctor at Key-Whitman Eye Center has the training and experience to develop a personalized treatment plan with the goal of ending your dry eye discomfort.

What is the Best Treatment for My Dry Eyes?

That can differ from person to person because it depends on which factors are causing your dry eye symptoms. That’s why Key-Whitman offers a range of treatments, including:

• OptiLight

• Specialized artificial tears

• Supplements specifically formulated for dry eye symptoms

• Heat masks for daily at-home dry eye therapy

• Lid scrubs for daily at-home cleansing

• Prescription eye drops

• Lipiflow treatments

The first step to reducing the discomfort of dry eyes is to come in to get an assessment of your condition. Once Key-Whitman doctors identify the source of your dry eye, they can recommend specific therapies or a package of treatments to address your individual needs.

Will the OptiLight by Lumenis Work for Me?

While OptiLight by Lumenis is an effective dry eye management solution, we want to make sure it’s right for you. We do not recommend this treatment if you:

• Suffer from aqueous deficiency dry eye (rather than evaporative dry eye or meibomian gland dysfunction)

• Have a history of keloid scarring

• Have severe scarring around your eyes

You Don’t Have to Live with Dry Eye Anymore!

Dry, irritated eyes can be managed with a new treatment called OptiLight by Lumenis that brings comfort and can restore quality of life. Your eye doctor is the only person who can determine whether OptiLight by Lumenis is right for you. At the present time, the OptiLight technology is available in Dallas and our North Arlington offices.. Book your appointment, ask us if you are a good candidate. You can get an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

From left to right: Larry A. Fish, M.D.; Leslie Pfeiffer, M.D.; Jeffrey Whitman, M.D.; Amanda Hoelscher, O.D.; Todd J. Agnew, O.D.

Amanda Hoelscher, OD treating her patient’s dry eyes with OptiLight.

Totally Rock the Joint!

Foot and ankle pain can ruin your dance moves. The joint specialists at Orthopedic Institute of North Texas can resolve your pain and return you to the activities you’ve been missing. We offer comprehensive operative and non-operative orthopedic expertise to resolve your joint issues with care, compassion, and confidence.

Returning you to a fuller more productive life is our priority and you can depend on us throughout diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. You can rely on our doctors to fully discuss every step of your medical treatment until you feel comfortable and confident that the solutions we recommend will deliver the best possible outcome.

Don’t put your life on hold one day longer because of joint pain. Call Orthopedic Institute of North Texas today.

Leroy Butler, DO

Education:

Medical School:

Lincoln Memorial University DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, Harrogate, TN

Residency :

Orthopedic Surgery, Wellmont Health Systems, Kingsport,TN

Fellowship:

Las Vegas Foot and Ankle Fellowship, Las Vegas, NV

Memberships:

• American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons

• American Osteopathic Academy of Orthopedics

• American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society

Foot and Ankle Surgeon

Dr. Butler joined the Orthopedic Institute of North Texas (OINT) in September of 2021, bringing his expertise in foot and ankle, and sports medicine to the practice. He specializes in total ankle replacement (TAR), arthritis and deformity correction, PARS Achilles repair, lateral ankle instability, foot and ankle cartilage injuries, trauma, 4-D DynaBunion and Lapiplasty bunion correction, minimally invasive bunion and foot/ankle surgeries and other procedures.

Dr. Butler enjoys exploring Dallas/Fort Worth and travels globally with his wife, Kathryn and son, Roman. In his free time, he loves playing tennis, working out, participating in, and attending sporting events, and spending time with friends and family.

Baylor Frisco-Professional Bldg. #1 5575 Warren Pkwy., Ste. 115 Frisco, Texas 75038

• Texas Health Resources-River Walk Marquis 2560 Central Park Ave., Ste. 395 Flower Mound, Texas 75028

• 972-591-6468 | www.oint.org

» Staffed by 2 Licensed, Doctors of Audiology

» Hearing Aid Fittings, Maintenance and Repairs

» Invisible Fittings/Open Fittings

» Evaluation Period On All Hearing Aids

» Hearing Evaluations For All Ages

» Wireless/Connectivity Hearing Solutions

» Battery Purchase Programs

» Custom Ear Protection

» Assistive Devices

UNDERSTANDING HEARING LOSS

Courtesy HEARING SERVICES OF McKINNEY

HEARING FACTS

Let’s start with some facts (NIDCD, 2013): one in five Americans 12 and older experiences hearing loss severe enough to hinder communication. Nearly 50% of adults ages 75 and older have hearing impairments. Hearing loss is the third most prevalent chronic condition in older Americans after hypertension and arthritis. About 26 million Americans between the ages of 20 and 69 have high frequency hearing loss due to exposure to loud noises at work or in leisure activities. Tinnitus (“ringing in the ears”) affects up to 50 million Americans. Tinnitus is currently the #1 service-connected disability for veterans from all service. If you have hearing loss, you’re not alone. In fact, the World Health Organization estimates that 360 million people worldwide have “disabling hearing loss.”

HOW HEARING WORKS

When we become aware of a sound in our environment, it is the result of a sequence of events. The outer ear-sound travels through the pinna, what we see on the side of our head, which collects and funnels sound into and down the ear canal, striking the eardrum and causing it to vibrate. The middle ear-vibrations from the eardrum cause the ossicles (the three smallest bones in the body) to vibrate which, in turn, send the information onto the inner ear. In the inner ear, the movement of the hair cells sends electrical impulses through the auditory nerve to the hearing center of the brain, which translates them to sounds the brain can recognize.

CAUSES OF HEARING LOSS

Something can go wrong along that whole auditory pathway, therefore many things can cause our hearing system to stop functioning properly. The main causes are the aging process, noise exposure, infections, variety of diseases such as Meningitis, injuries to the head or ear, birth defects, genetics, and ototoxic reaction to drugs or cancer treatment (i.e., certain antibiotics, chemotherapy, etc.).

HOW HEARING LOSS OCCURS

To understand why hearing loss is pervasive, it’s important to understand how hearing loss happens. Hearing loss happens when any part of our delicate hearing system stops working properly, whether it’s due to damage or deterioration. The most susceptible and common parts to break down are the microscopic stereocilia, the thousands of tiny hair cells that detect and send sound impulses to

the brain. When these tiny hair cells come injured, diseased or die naturally, the result is sensory hearing loss. This is by far the most common type of hearing loss. When the microscopic stereocilia (hair cells) in your cochlea (inner ear) are damaged, they will not send complete signals to your brain, causing you to be unable to understand the consonants (more typical than vowels) within words. For example, the word “TOOTHBRUSH” may sound like “OO-BRU.” Healthy hair cells stand erect and are able to accurately detect sound waves and send impulses to the brain to correctly identify the word spoken. Damaged hair cells are limp and will no longer stand erect. They are therefore unable to properly detect sounds waves or send the correct information to the brain to identify.

HOW HEARING LOSS CAN IMPACT YOUR LIFE

If you think your hearing loss is inconsequential, you should know that studies have linked untreated hearing loss to significant issues such as: diminished psychological and overall health, impaired memory and ability to learn new tasks, reduced alertness and increased risk to personal safety, avoidance or withdrawal from social situations, social rejection and loneliness, fatigue, tension, stress and depression, irritability, negativism and anger, reduced job performance and earning power (from Better Hearing Institute, 2013).

WHAT HEARING LOSS IS LIKE

You can’t recreate a hearing loss simply by plugging your ears. A person with normal hearing can hear quiet, medium and loud sounds that vary from low pitch (bass) to high pitch (treble). But when you have hearing loss, you often lose the ability to hear higher pitched sounds first, such as certain consonants like T, K, S, F, SH and TH. Even though you still may be able to hear the stronger, lower pitch vowel sounds. This is why “I hear, but cannot understand” is a common complaint.

HELP IS AVAILABLE

If you think you or someone you know has hearing loss, the next step is an easy one—confirm it by seeing an Audiologist. Just as every person is unique, every hearing loss and hearing need is unique too. Consult an Audiologist who is trained to inspect your ear canal, accurately measure your hearing loss, assess your unique needs and make a recommendation that takes all this personal information into account.

When It’s Time to Declutter

By HOLLY VI

Baby boomers and the post war generations are generations that have accumulated a lot of stuff over the years. From family heirlooms and antiques to collectibles and sentimental items, it can be difficult to part with these possessions as we age and especially if downsizing homes. However, as we enter our golden years, it becomes increasingly important for us to consider letting go of some of our belongings.

Downsizing is one of the biggest reasons why we may need to part with our some of our collectibles and other random stuff is because we may wish to downsize our home. As we age, we’re are moving into smaller homes, apartments, or assisted living facilities, and we simply don’t have room for all of these belongings. Downsizing can be an emotional and difficult process, but it is a necessary step for many of us as we adjust to a new chapter in our lives. The earlier we start parting with some of the things we’re not using and possibly have in storage, the easier we will make it on ourselves.

Another reason why you may need to part with some of your collections and stored belongings is for estate planning purposes. As we age, we start thinking about what will happen to our possessions after we’re gone. We want to ensure that our belongings will be passed down to the next generation, or donated to organizations that will appreciate and use them. Estate planning can help us make these decisions and ensure that our belongings are passed on in a way that aligns with our values and priorities.

As we age, we may face physical limitations that make it difficult for us to manage our belongings. We may have difficulty reaching high shelves, lifting heavy items, or simply getting around our homes. By letting go of some of the possessions around us, we can reduce clutter and make our homes safer and more manageable.

Letting go of belongings can be difficult, especially once we’ve become older and have a strong emotional attachment to our possessions. Whether it’s a family heirloom or a collectible that holds sentimental value, it can be challenging to part with items that have been a part of our lives for so long. However, we can find comfort in knowing that our belongings will be passed down to the next generation or given to organizations that will appreciate and use them.

There can also be financial benefits to letting go of some of our possessions. You may be able to sell items that are valuable or in high demand, or you may be able to donate items and receive a tax deduction. Getting some cash in exchange for your belonging can help offset some of the emotional attachment you may feel to it while also improving your financial situation.

Going through your belongings and parting with them may seem daunting. Here are some tips and advice to help make the process easier:

1. START SMALL: Don’t try to part with all of your belongings at once. Start small, by tackling one room or one area at a time. This will help you focus and make the process less overwhelming.

2. GET HELP FROM A PROFESSIONAL: Consider working with a professional organizer or estate planner. They can help you make decisions about your belongings and offer advice on how to manage the process.

3. CREATE A PLAN: Develop a plan for what you will do with your belongings. Whether you are selling items, donating them, or passing them down to the next generation, having a plan in place can help make the process smoother and more manageable.

4. SET ASIDE TIME: Set aside time each day or each week to work on letting go of your belongings. This will help you stay focused and make steady progress.

5. TAKE A PICTURE: If you’re thinking you may want to view the item again, take a picture of it. It can often help you release your emotional ties from your belongings.

6. BOX THEM UP: Place the items you’re having a problem deciding on in a box and close it. If you haven’t needed them after a week, then without reopening the box, donate them. Be sure and keep this box by the door so you don’t forget about it and keep hanging onto it.

7. HOST AN HEIRLOOM DAY: Lay out all the special things you feel your family and/or friends might be interested in such as old photos, belongings from a passed loved one or special Christmas ornaments and invite them over to pick out what they would like. You could serve light refreshments and make it a happy experience full of sharing memories. This is also a great time to embark on conversations about other items they may want when you’re ready to part with those.

8. REVISIT FLAT SURFACES: Look around your home and make sure that all your flat surfaces such as tables, shelves, cabinets, the refrigerator and your washer/dryer don’t have a pile of unappreciated items on top of them. These locations may be the easiest place to start. What part of your home stresses you the most? That is also a great place to start. If you have a ton of picture frames, you can invest in a digital frame to rotate your favorite memories or opt to only display recent photos. Downsizing picture frames and small decorative items gives you more space and less dusting responsibilities.

9. ONE A DAY: Commit to eliminating one item a day until you strengthen your declutter muscle. You can customize this idea to fit your situation and maybe give it a fun name such as, “Weed Out Wednesday,” “Throw Out Thursday,” or “Send it Away Saturday.” Put on some music and make it your adventure. Try the Pomodoro Technique, a method for procrastinators who work better under pressure. Set a timer for 20 minutes and quickly try to get as much done before the timer goes off.

10. FIND YOUR MOTIVATION: Sometimes visiting a friend’s clean house can make you want to go home and get started evicting your dust bunnies. Maybe watching a cleaning or decluttering video on YouTube motivates you. Marie Kondo has a show on Netflix called Tidying Up that shows some great tips and other people’s houses getting decluttered. Invite someone over you’ll be most likely motived to declutter your home for.

Getting honest with ourselves about the reasons we hold onto our stuff gives us a new perspective and the will to let go. Who you are today is not because of the items you have collected and saved over the years nor because of the new things you can buy now. It’s the amazing love and lessons learned that helped to mold us.

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.

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 SLABISAK, MD Orthopaedic Spine Surgeon

AMIR MALIK, MD Neurosurgeon

STEVE HONG, MD Interventional Pain ManagementSpecialist

TRUNG HA, MD Pain Management & Rehabilitation

9990 Dallas Pkwy., Ste. 105 Frisco, TX 75033

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

Andrew Chambers, M.D.

Orthopedic Surgeon

Dr. Chambers is an orthopaedic surgeon at Texas Bone & JointArlington 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.

3201 Matlock Road, Suite 260

Arlington, Texas 76015

877-314-8990

tbjortho.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

What’s in Your Coffee?

By ROGER ROY

You may have considered buying organic fruits and vegetables to limit your exposures to pesticides and toxins but have you ever taken a look at your coffee? Coffee is a beloved beverage for most of us, providing a much-needed energy boost in the morning or a pick-me-up in the afternoon. However, coffee can contain harmful toxins that can have negative health effects over time.

The FDA has established maximum limits for some toxins, such as lead and acrylamide, in coffee and other foods, and regularly monitors levels in the food supply to ensure they are not exceeded. However, the FDA acknowledges that some level of these substances may be present in coffee and other foods. Consuming less chemicals and pesticides can lower the potential risks of certain health conditions, such as allergies and cancer associated with these substances.

Some of the most common toxins found in coffee are:

Pesticides

Many coffee crops are treated with pesticides to protect the plants from pests and disease. However, these pesticides can be toxic to humans and can end up in the coffee beans. To avoid consuming these harmful toxins, look for coffee that is certified organic, as it is grown without the use of harmful pesticides.

Acrylamide

Acrylamide is a chemical that is produced when coffee is roasted. It is a known carcinogen and has been linked to an increased risk of cancer. To reduce your exposure to acrylamide, choose lighter roasted coffee, as darker roasts have higher levels of acrylamide.

BPA

BPA, or bisphenol A, is a chemical that is used in the lining of many coffee cans and containers. It has been linked to a range of health problems, including cancer, infertility, and developmental problems. To avoid BPA, choose coffee that is packaged in BPA-free containers, or buy whole beans and grind them yourself.

Mycotoxins

Mycotoxins are toxic substances produced by certain fungi that can contaminate coffee beans. They have been linked to a range of health problems, including liver and kidney damage, immune system suppression, and cancer. To avoid mycotoxins, choose high-quality coffee beans from reputable suppliers, and store your coffee in airtight containers to prevent contamination.

Mold

Coffee beans can easily become contaminated with mold, especially if they are stored in damp or humid conditions. Mold can produce mycotoxins, which can be harmful to human health. To avoid mold contamination, store your coffee in airtight containers and keep it away from damp or humid conditions.

So, how can you be sure that you are drinking safe, toxin-free coffee? Here are some popular name-brand coffee options that offer organic, light roast coffee packaged in BPA-free containers:

Starbucks

Starbucks offers a range of organic coffee, including a light roast blend. Their coffee is packaged in BPAfree bags.

Peet’s Coffee

Peet’s Coffee offers a range of organic coffee, including a light roast blend. Their coffee is packaged in BPAfree bags.

Green Mountain Coffee

Green Mountain Coffee offers a range of organic coffee, including a light roast blend. Their coffee is packaged in BPA-free bags.

Dunkin’ Donuts

Dunkin’ Donuts offers a range of organic coffee, including a light roast blend. Their coffee is packaged in BPA-free bags.

Death Wish Coffee

Death Wish Coffee offers a range of organic coffee, including a light roast blend. Their coffee is packaged in BPA-free bags.

It is important to note that not all coffee from these brands may be packaged in BPA-free containers, so be sure to check the product descriptions or ask the coffee shop or vendor directly before making a purchase. These options are a good starting point for anyone looking for popular, name-brand organic, light roast coffee packaged in BPA-free containers. By following these tips, you can minimize your exposure and enjoy your morning cup of coffee without worrying about its health effects. You can protect your health and enjoy a delicious cup of coffee every day.

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Are you a Bored Boomer?

By MARIE HOWARD

As we age, it’s common to feel like we’re stuck in a rut or that life has become a bit dull. This can be especially true for baby boomers who may be transitioning into retirement or experiencing changes in their social and personal lives. However, there are plenty of ways to stay engaged and energized, no matter what age you are.

One of the best ways to get out of the boredom rut is to try new things. Take up a new hobby or learn a new skill. You might be surprised at how fulfilling it can be to discover a new passion. Whether it’s painting, woodworking, computer science, playing an instrument, gardening, or trying a new recipe, there’s something out there that will pique your interest. Bonus points if you select a hobby that includes friends or making new friends.

Staying active is essential for maintaining physical and mental health. Regular exercise can help you stay in shape, manage stress, and even ward off chronic diseases. However, you don’t have to stick to traditional forms of exercise to stay active. Consider trying out activities like hiking, swimming, or yoga, which can be easier on the joints than high-impact activities like running or weightlifting.

Volunteering is a great way to stay engaged with your community while also making a difference. There are plenty of organizations out there that could use your help, from local charities to environmental organizations to schools and libraries. You might consider volunteering at a food bank, hospital, animal shelter, local school, or a local museum. Not only will you be giving back, but you’ll also have the opportunity to meet new people and learn new skills.

Traveling is a great way to break out of your routine and see new sights. Whether you prefer to travel domestically or internationally, there are plenty of options out there. You could take a road trip across the country, plan a trip to Europe, or even take a cruise. If you’re on a tight budget, consider a local staycation where you can explore your own city or town in a new way.

Social connections are important at any age, but they become especially important as we get older. Maintaining social connections can help reduce the risk of depression and loneliness, and even improve physical health. Consider joining a social group or club, or attending local events like concerts, festivals, or farmers’ markets. You might also try attending a support group or connecting with old friends. Can’t find one? Start one!

Setting goals can help keep you motivated and focused. Consider setting goals related to your health, career, or personal life. These might include goals like running a 5K, learning a new skill, or planning a trip. Setting goals can give you something to work towards and help you stay energized and engaged.

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.

Georgia Smith-Lyle is a Mental Health Counselor in Dallas and surrounding areas. Her main office is in McKinney, and her ranch office is in Petty, Texas, where she utilizes Equine Assisted Psychotherapy with her horses. She is also an author and is passionate about writing. She and her husband, Jeff, have begun a retreat venue which will host all different occasions (whiteroseranch.com). To reach Georgia, email her at gpsmith7@aol.com, or call 469-855-0256.

A MARRIAGE PARADIGM

By GEORGIA SMITH-LYLE, MA, LPC-S

Imagine for a moment what your parent’s relationship looked like growing up. Visualize their interaction together when they communicated, showed affection, laughed together, disagreed, and interactions with their children. In other words, what was their model or paradigm for their marriage? If you are married, consider what your paradigm is like. Are you imitating your parent’s paradigm? Most likely you are imitating their relationship without being very aware that you are. It is the first example or paradigm of a marriage relationship you had to learn from. When you fall in love, everything seems blissful and little attention is considered to what you would like your paradigm in your new relationship to look like. In a new relationship, you are concerned with what you can do to make sure the person you are falling in love with knows how interested you are in them, in their world, making them happy…basically being as thoughtful and considerate towards them in order to show them you love and adore them. This kind of emotional affection is very thoughtful and unselfish. You are not considering all your wants and needs or what they can do for you as much as you consider what you can do to show them you truly love them. This “unselfish” paradigm/model is beautiful, and it would be wonderful if this attitude could continue in a marriage, even after the newness and bliss of the relationship has diminished. Fortunately, it can be this way! Yes, it can but it will be more intentional in expression than left to the energy of the blissfulness to guide and energize the expression of love for the other person. Both of you will need to be deliberate on a daily basis to maintain unselfish love expressions for each other, even at times when you feel you are giving more than you are receiving. Communicating is key to keeping the balance of loving, unselfish expressions.

Consider your wedding day! The bliss, excitement and newness propel you forward, and expressions of unselfish love comes easy. But after a season of time, the bliss wears off and the reality of seeing each other in every aspect of your lives together begins to become clear. You get very busy in your lives with the “roles” you play as husband and wife. You can easily begin to “relate to each other in your role or responsibilities” instead of a relational interaction with expressions of unselfish love for the other person. One of the best ways to change the way you relate after marriage is begin to be the “lover and friend” you were before marriage. This can be done even in the midst of the roles as husband and wife. The perspectives of unselfish love, lover and friend will connect you deeply. Change your paradigm to be intimately relational instead of role based. A great resource on the idea of healthy paradigm is the book “Lover/Spouse” by Douglas Weiss, PhD. Georgia Smith-Lyle is in private practice as Licensed Professional Counselor in State of Texas. She provides counseling for children, adolescents, adults, marriage and family. She is also an ordained minister. She has a passion as a counselor, author and public speaker to encourage others to become all they were created to be. Her husband and her live on 100 acres of pastureland and have recently built a beautiful venue for couple’s intensives, weddings and special events called White Rose Ranch Retreat.

GEORGIA SMITH-LYLE

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

TOP LAWYERS

In this special editorial section, the lawyers are listed in alphabetical order and by ad size. To learn more about the lawyers and their specialty, you can visit their websites provided. Their information presented in Living Well Magazine is not legal advice, nor is the Top Lawyers Section a legal referral service.

Throughout the year, readers and clients nominate attorneys they feel are great candidates for the Top Lawyer recognition by Living Well Magazine. Not all lawyers nominated opted to participate in this paid Top Lawyers Section. While we strive to maintain a high degree of accuracy in the information provided, we make no claim, promise or guarantee about the accuracy of the information provided to us. Hiring an attorney is an important decision that should not solely be based upon advertising or the listings in this magazine.

Take your time and focus on finding an attorney that has dealt with your specific legal issue. You can usually find out basic information about any attorney you’re interested in online. Their websites generally list their specialties, where they went to school, and how long they’ve been practicing. The Dallas Bar Association and Collin County Bar Association are other great places to research information. Once you’ve narrowed down your search, make an appointment with any attorney you’re interested in and set up a consultation (find out if a fee is involved for the consultation). Be sure and take your questions with you to your consultation that are specific to your case.

Lori Ashmore Peters and Gary Ashmore MANAGING ATTORNEYS

The Ashmore Law Firm, P.C.

The Ashmore Law Firm is a family-owned and operated, full-service boutique law firm that has been serving the community for over 30 years. The firm was established in 1987 by Retired Probate Judge Joseph E. Ashmore, Jr. and his son, Gary Ashmore. Attorney Lori Ashmore Peters, Joe’s daughter, and Gary’s sister later joined the firm in 1996.

We provide you with cost-effective options and specifically focus on the individual needs of our clients.

As a client of The Ashmore Law Firm, you will benefit from over 135 years of combined legal experience.

“I can’t thank The Ashmore Law Firm enough. They gave me peace of mind helping me with my legal needs. They are professional and looked out for our interest.”

“As an attorney & businessman, I am pleased to share that Lori Ashmore Peters has the integrity & philosophies that are sorely needed in the legal profession today.”

When you work with The Ashmore Law Firm, you are working with attorneys that are passionate about going above and beyond for you. We believe that we can offer you the best possible legal counsel within our community. You get the best of both worlds, a high level of service that the big law firms provide, with the individualized attention of a smaller practice.

Attorney Robin Forsythe’s estate planning practice focuses on helping families enhance their lives today and secure their futures tomorrow. She excels in guiding her clients through the often-confusing maze of financial and legal decisions to create plans that ensure the well-being of their families and the accomplishment of cherished family goals. Her considerable legal expertise includes family protection, wealth preservation, pet planning and values-based planning as well as planning strategies for unmarried couples and divorced individuals. Whether you are married or single, with a traditional family or blended one, just starting out or looking back on a life well-lived, Robin will help you craft a plan that achieves your goals for your loved ones today and for years to come.

Robin started her career as a Special Investigative Agent for the Kentucky Department of Revenue after graduating Magna Cum Laude from Kentucky State University with a bachelor’s in Business Administration with an Accounting Emphasis and a Minor in Finance. There she investigated Criminal Tax Fraud in both individuals and businesses. She also performed joint investigations with local, state, and federal law enforcement bodies and sat on multiple task forces. Robin attended law school part time while working for the state and graduated from Northern

Kentucky University’s Salmon P. Chase College of Law in 2014. She worked for Toyota North America for four years in their accounting, supply chain and sales departments working on large projects including moving the supply chain function to the United States from Japan and leading their Annual Plan for North America. In 2018 Robin and her husband moved back to Texas and Robin joined a Dallas based CPA firm providing Tax Controversy services to clients struggling with IRS issues. In 2019 Robin set out on her own to provide clients with flat fee-based practice for Tax Controversy and Estate Planning.

Robin’s love of Estate Planning started in her undergraduate career knowing how difficult life can be when a family member dies without a will or even any clear instructions. Her own father passed when she was a senior in high school and saw the rift it can create in families. Robin knows the value of planning for a death or incapacity in your family. Your kids, pets, friends, and family need clear instructions from you to see your dreams, goals and ideas through.

Robin lives in Princeton, TX with her husband Cory and 5-yearold daughter Taylor. She’s also the loving owner of a corgi cross, Chewy, a corgi Hamilton, and an Appaloosa horse named ‘Appyness. Robin is an avid Tennis player and dressage rider.

Deandra Grant

Attorney Deandra M. Grant is the Managing Partner of Deandra Grant Law. 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 was included in the list of Super Lawyers® for 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022. Super Lawyers® is an attorney rating service that is nationally recognized throughout the legal community. The list represents no more than 5% of the attorneys in Texas. She is also AV® Preeminent™ Rated by Martindale-Hubbell®, which is the highest rating an attorney can achieve. She was given the AV® Rating for her outstanding professional achievements in the field of DWI law and her contributions to the legal community. She’s also received the highest rating of 10.0 by both AVVO and Justia.

Deandra graduated in 1990 from Trinity University in San Antonio with a B.S. in Business Administration. She earned her law degree from the SMU School of Law and was licensed by the State Bar of Texas in 1993. Having spent her last year of law school as an intern with the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office, she began work there as an assistant district attorney in January 1994.

Deandra’s tenure as a prosecutor focused on DWI prosecution. Upon leaving the DA’s Office, she opened her own criminal defense practice.

Over the last 29 years she has represented hundreds of Texans charged with criminal offenses, including DWI, violent felonies and sex crimes. As a former prosecutor, she knows firsthand 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 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration training course that teaches police officers nationwide how to identify drunk drivers during traffic stops. She has also completed the SFST Instructor course and taught the SFST practitioner course to other attorneys. In 2008, she completed coursework on DWI forensic blood and urine testing.

In 2011 she received a certificate from the American Chemical Society in forensic chromatography. In 2012 she became a member of both the American Chemical Society and the American Academy of Forensic Science. Deandra earned the ACS-CHAL Forensic Lawyer-Scientist Designation in 2015. In 2016 she completed both a Graduate Certificate in Forensic Toxicology from the University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine and a Master in Pharmaceutical Science—Concentration in Forensic Science from the University of Florida’s College of Pharmacy. In 2019 she joined the faculty at Axion Labs as an Assistant Chromatography Instructor.

Deandra is a former board member of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. She is a Charter Member and former president of the DUI Defense Lawyers Association. Currently she serves on the board of the Dallas Women Lawyers Association and served a term as president of the Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association in 2022.

On a personal note, Deandra is a wife, the mom of two and has 5 rescue dogs. She spends a great deal of time working with dog rescues and is Vice President of Living the Doxie Dream Rescue & Sanctuary, located in Royse City, Texas. Deandra is a self-proclaimed “wine snob” who collects wine.

Earsa Jackson

Earsa Jackson is a dynamic leader with more than 24 years of experience practicing law. Chair of Clark Hill’s Franchise & Licensing team and the firm’s Diversity Committee, Earsa enjoys helping individuals and companies expand through franchising and licensing models. She regularly structures franchises and assists franchises with ongoing transactional needs in addition to handling business and commercial litigation matters.

She is the Chair of the International Franchise Association’s (IFA) Diversity Institute and was honored to receive the 2019 IFA “Ronald E. Harrison Diversity Award” at the 59th Annual Convention, an award that recognizes businesses and individuals who have made significant contributions to diversity in franchising either within their own franchise organization or within the franchise community.

Earsa has written and spoken extensively on franchise issues and is a member of the Governing Committee of the American Bar Association Forum on Franchising and a former Director of the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Division for the American Bar Association Forum on Franchising. She has been recognized among Best Lawyers in America and Who’s Who Legal. She is the co-author of Franchise and Distribution Law Developments 2016. She is an associate editor of the Franchise Law Journal.

She enjoys spending time with her husband of 27 years and their children as well as travelling.

About Clark Hill

Clark Hill is a multidisciplinary, international law firm that provides innovative legal solutions and client-service excellence worldwide. Its work is guided by its deeply held shared values, including practicality, entrepreneurship, mutual respect, diversity, ethical behavior, and a commitment to client and community service. Some of its signature practice groups include banking & financial services; corporate law; cyber security, data protection & privacy; labor & employment; litigation; real estate and tax & estate planning. Learn more at clarkhill.com.

THE KOONSFULLER SHAREHOLDERS

L TO R:  R1: NEDA GARRETT , BRIAN LOUGHMILLER , LIZ PORTER , CHARLA BRADSHAW , IKE VANDEN EYKEL

RICK

Koons Fuller

DIVORCE, CHILD CUSTODY, POSTDIVORCE MODIFICATIONS, CHILD SUPPORT, MARITAL PROPERTY AGREEMENTS, ENFORCEMENTS, GRANDPARENTS’ RIGHTS, PATERNITY, COLLABORATIVE LAW, AND APPEALS

FAMILY LAW IS NOT ONLY WHAT WE DO. IT’S ALL WE DO.

With more than thirty proven attorneys in four offices across North Texas, KoonsFuller is one of the largest family law firms in Texas and the Southwest. KoonsFuller Family Law offers clients a level of legal representation and range of resources unmatched by any other family law firm. Whether your case calls for informal negotiations, mediation, collaborative law or court proceedings, KoonsFuller is equipped to handle cases of all sizes and issues and has been doing so for over 40 years. The attorneys pride themselves on the compassion, skill, and thoughtfulness they bring to each case. They understand that every family is unique and every family’s concerns are different, especially when divorce, custody issues, and finances are involved.

Working together, as a fully integrated team, there is no case too large or complex for us to manage. To learn more about KoonsFuller, visit koonsfuller.com.

DALLAS (Principal Office) 1717 McKinney Ave., Ste. 1500 Dallas, TX 75202 (214) 871-2727 DENTON

320 W. Eagle Dr., Ste. 200 Denton, TX 76201 (940) 442-6677

5700 W. Plano Pkwy., Ste. 2200 Plano, TX 75093 (972) 769-2727 SOUTHLAKE

550 Reserve St., Ste. 450 Southlake, TX 76092 (817) 481-2710

ROBERTSON*, HEATHER KING*, JESSICA JANICEK*, AND JULIE CRAWFORD*

R2: DANA MANRY*, SEAN ABEYTA*, JESSICA PERRONI*, SALLY PRETORIUS*, CHRIS MEUSE*, FRED ADAMS*, ROB MCEWAN*, LAURA S. HAYES*, AND KEVIN SEGLER*

*BOARD CERTIFIED IN FAMILY LAW BY THE TEXAS BOARD OF LEGAL SPECIALIZATION.

RICK ROBERTSON SHAREHOLDER VOTED 2023 TOP LAWYER

As partners at Leu & Peirce, PLLC, a preeminent Elder Law firm in Plano, Lori Leu, Erin Peirce, and Lauren Olson are committed to providing quality, compassionate, and dignified services to their clients. Their boutique practice focuses on protecting seniors through estate planning, long-term care decisions, public benefits eligibility, including Medicaid and VA benefits, probate administration, heirship proceedings, Will contests, and guardianships.

Lori Leu, a Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA), graduated from Kansas State University and Harvard Law School. After practicing commercial litigation and telecommunications law, Lori attended SMU Perkins School of Theology and, in 2008, realized her calling of serving seniors and their families through the practice of Elder Law. Lori grew up in a small town in Kansas and raised her family in Plano.

Erin Peirce graduated from Texas A&M University and South Texas College of Law. Erin was raised in Houston and moved to Dallas in 2007. Prior to joining Lori Leu in 2011, Erin practiced commercial litigation, which now enables her to advocate for her client’s rights and defend against elder abuse and exploitation in the Elder Law arena.

Lauren Olson began practicing with Leu & Peirce in 2013. Lauren is a Plano native and graduate of Saint Louis University and SMU Dedman School of Law. Lauren’s background as a social worker and member of AmeriCorps forms the foundation of her compassion and mission to help the community and the families served at Leu & Peirce.

The experienced and talented team at Leu & Peirce is devoted to empowering seniors and their families with advice on issues of housing, financial well-being, healthcare, and the ultimate disposition of assets, enabling their clients to plan for the future and age with grace and dignity. Along with their dedicated support staff, Lori, Erin, and Lauren focus all of their energy on making the legal aspects of aging easier for their clients. The emerging practice of Elder Law encompasses a variety of legal challenges experienced by seniors and their families, as well as those with special needs, and the attorneys at Leu & Peirce are committed to serving the unique needs of each client.

L TO R: R1: RHONDA CONNOLLY, MICHAELE HAYDEN, ERIN PEIRCE, LAUREN OLSON, CYNTHIA STEVENS R2: MELANIE SIMMONS, AMY WILSON, LORI MOORE, LORI LEU, SONIA CARDONA

Krupa Downs Law

Attorney Christene “Chris” Krupa Downs focuses her practice on wills, trusts, advance directives, estate planning, guardianships, and probate. She has over 10 years of legal experience handling estate planning, probate & guardianship legal matters for clients in Allen, Frisco, McKinney, Plano and throughout Collin, Dallas and Denton counties.

In addition to her practice, Chris writes and lectures for local and state bar associations, and at legal seminars. She is a member of various professional organizations, including the Collin County Bar Association, the Dallas Bar Association and the Texas Bar College. She is also active in the State Bar of Texas and serves on the board of the Bar’s Computer and Technology Section Council.

As part of giving back to the Texas community, Chris serves on the board of the Wellness Center for Older Adults, an organization addressing the needs and concerns of Collin County’s older adult population, and is treasurer of the Women’s Auxiliary to Plano Children’s Medical Center. She also serves on the board of the Junior League of Collin County as Community Strategic Director and is a former Treasurer and Executive Vice President of the organization. In 2022, Chris was recognized with the Athena Award by the Plano Chamber of Commerce and the Community Service by a Woman Lawyer award by the Collin County Women Lawyers Association.

Christie Merchant

CRIMINAL DEFENSE

Christie Merchant is a straight-shooting and compassionate attorney who has spent the majority of her career practicing criminal law. Christie started her profession as a prosecutor in East Texas where she represented the State of Texas in cases involving misdemeanor offenses, Child Protective Services, and in cases on appeal where individuals sought to challenge the validity of their convictions. As a young prosecutor, Christie argued before the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals and won and has maintained her passion for appellate advocacy ever since.

Shortly after her win in Austin, Christie became a staff attorney for the Twelfth Court of Appeals in Tyler. As a staff attorney, she honed her research and writing skills, and learned how judges approach the cases before them. After nearly four years with the Court, Christie moved to Dallas in 2016 where she began practicing criminal defense.

Since becoming a criminal defense attorney, Christie has represented numerous clients at the trial and appellate court levels in both state and federal court. She has been a speaker for the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, been recognized as one of D Magazine’s Best Lawyers and Best Lawyers Under 40, and has been named a Super Lawyers Rising Star two years in a row.

Christie has primarily served clients in the DFW area. In 2020, she expanded her practice to include an office in Tyler where she primarily serves as counsel for individuals seeking to appeal their convictions. Whether you have needs in the metroplex or East Texas, reach out to Christie by phone or email to set up a consultation!

DALLAS LOCATION 17304 Preston Rd., Ste. 1250 Dallas, Texas 75252 (214) 538-7393

EAST TEXAS LOCATION 2702 E. Fifth St., #735 Tyler, Texas 75701 (903) 747-0784

christie@merchlaw.com

Jonathan Rawlins

LITIGATION WORK

Rawlins Law Firm, LLC represents individuals across the state of Texas. Our firm specializes in providing representation to individuals and companies helping recover Diminished Value on their automobiles.

When your personal or company vehicle is involved in an accident and subsequently repaired, it will have an inherent lost value due to the loss history on the vehicle. When another person’s negligence causes the accident, you have the right to recover the lost value directly from that person’s insurance company.

Get in touch with us to set up a consultation to inquire whether our services are right for you. We at Rawlins Law Firm know that finding the right attorney to represent you is a choice not to be taken lightly. That’s why we offer free consultations to walk you through your needs, the scope of your goals, and your budget.

Thompson Law, LLP

PERSONAL INJURY & ACCIDENT

The attorneys at Thompson Law are veteran trial lawyers who have claimed some of the most significant verdicts and settlements across the United States. In 2021 alone, Thompson Law obtained 3 of the top 20, 15 of the top 50, and 39 of the top 100 personal injury settlements in the State of Texas (TopVerdict).

Since its founding, Thompson Law has been unrelenting in its pursuit of justice for injured Texans, working tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for their clients. Ryan L. Thompson, a battle-tested and nationally recognized mass tort, products liability, and catastrophic personal injury attorney, is the firm’s Managing Partner and lead trial lawyer. “I’m dedicated to making our firm reflect my commitment to fighting for justice no matter the cost,” says Thompson.

“We continue to apply our established reputation of unparalleled client service and success at trial, from mass torts and catastrophic injuries to the broader personal injury arena. With our vast resources and experienced, board certified personal injury trial lawyers, we win, and our clients win,” Thompson adds.

Thompson Law is known for its slogan “Big Cases and Small, We Handle Them All.” And they do just that. Thompson Law’s attorneys have an outstanding and well-documented track record of winning big settlements and verdicts, boasting a success rate of over 93% and more than $1.9 billion in net recoveries for clients. “We want everyone to know that we are the right firm to handle their catastrophic injury case, however complicated it may be. But we are not too big to take on smaller cases for any client in need,” Thompson says.

Thompson has paid tens of millions in referral fees and the firm welcomes the opportunity to work with you and your clients on injury referrals anywhere in Texas, and across the United States.

Ryan Thompson

Vogt Duff Law Group

ESTATE PLANNING

The Vogt Duff Law Group is a law firm serving Collin County families and small businesses with their estate planning and business planning needs. Candace Vogt and Sarah Duff share a passion for helping individuals and families achieve their goals through customized wills, trusts, and business plans.

“Our goal is to serve the specific needs and goals of individuals, families, and family businesses. Each client is unique.” Candace and Sarah believe every estate plan and business plan should be specially designed only after getting to know the client. The firm is committed to creating strong, comprehensive plans that are efficient and understandable.

Candace began her law practice in Alabama after graduating from Vanderbilt Law School in Nashville. While in Birmingham, Candace practiced with a large local firm and taught law school classes focusing on estate planning and property law. She later moved to Texas with her family and worked with a non-profit based in the Metroplex before returning to the practice of law. Candace branched out to solo practice five years ago with an emphasis on estate planning and planning for small family businesses.

Sarah, a native Texan, began her career in civil litigation in Dallas before transitioning to solo practice focusing on estate planning, probate, and guardianship. A graduate of Austin College and Texas Tech University School of Law, Sarah is a five-year recipient of the Texas Lawyers Rising Star designation. Sarah previously served as the Chair of the Collin County Bar Association’s Estate Planning and Probate Section and the Chair of the McKinney Chamber of Commerce women’s group.

When not spending time with clients, you can find Candace and Sarah serving their respective churches or spending time with their children and extended families.

Craig W. Watson

CRIMINAL DEFENSE

Craig Watson’s legal practice focuses on the areas of estate planning, probate, elder law and guardianship matters. He serves clients with large taxable estates as well as small non-taxable estates. His estate planning work includes the preparation of simple Wills and Revocable Trusts as well as complex estate plans involving By-pass Trusts and Marital Trusts. Craig also designs estate tax-sensitive plans that include charitable trusts, life insurance trusts, educational trusts, LLC’s and family limited partnerships. Craig’s probate practice is similarly broad and may include anything from probating a small estate all the way up to preparing and filing a federal estate tax return for a large taxable estate. As an elder law attorney, Craig handles nursing home Medicaid qualification, guardianships, wills, powers of attorney and medical authorizations for elderly clients.

Craig is a member of the Special Needs Alliance, a national, invitation only organization of attorneys committed to serving the legal needs of disabled individuals. Craig is certified as an Elder Law Attorney by the National Elder Law Foundation, which is recognized by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. He is a Life Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation, a member of the College of the State Bar of Texas, the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, and the Texas and Grayson County Bar Associations. He graduated from SMU School of Law in 1989 with a Juris Doctor degree. Prior to that, he practiced as a CPA in Dallas for four years after graduating with a degree in Accounting and concentration in Finance from Baylor University in 1982.

Craig is married and lives on a farm west of Sherman where he raises cattle.

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.

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.