Denton County Living Well Magazine July-August 2023

Our Focus is You

Denton Rehab is a locally owned and operated skilled nursing facility that is licensed by the State of Texas and certified to participate in both the Medicare and Medicaid programs. Our core management team has worked together for years and has decades of experience providing compassionate healthcare.

When you require professional, dependable, skilled nursing care to regain your health and strength, chose the expert team at Denton Rehab. We invite you to stop by and meet our friendly staff.

We’re excited to soon be able to show you our beautiful new community in Denton, located on six beautiful acres conveniently located next to Medical City Denton.

Our new facility will have 94 private beds with ensuite and shower. We will have two suites that include ensuite, shower and a living area.

Our new community has three living areas, two dining areas, a private dining area for families, cultural center, sitting parlor, beauty shop, activities center, whirlpool room, therapy gym, and eight covered outdoor areas to relax and view nature and the beautiful, landscaped grounds. Our state-of-the-art kitchen uses green technology to provide healthier, more delicious food. Denton Rehab’s nurses and certified nurse aides provide aroundthe-clock care. Doctors and nurse practitioners make rounds three times a week while our medical director makes rounds twice a week. Our number one goal is helping you recover and rebuild your life. Our Focus is You!

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.

EVOLVING HEALTHCARE

Welcome to the latest edition of LIVING WELL Magazine, a platform that offers you a wealth of knowledge on leading a healthier and fulfilling life. This edition is brimming with compelling content, expert advice, and inspiring stories.

SPRING AND SAM HOUSTON

Our cover story features a distinguished healthcare professional Dr. Justin Michael Kane, a renowned foot and ankle surgeon. Dr. Kane, the founder of the Orthopedic Institute of North Texas, has built a leading orthopedic practice with his dedication to patient care and commitment to his staff. Dive into his inspiring journey, learn about his ground-breaking techniques, and understand how he is changing the lives of his patients daily.

We also dive into the personal life of Hollywood legend Bruce Willis. Recently diagnosed with aphasia, Willis is navigating new terrain as he steps back from his illustrious acting career spanning more than four decades. We explore his journey from stardom to this new chapter in his life, shedding light on the challenging aspects of living with frontotemporal dementia.

In our quest to keep you informed about the evolving landscape of mental health care, we explore the potential benefits and limitations of online therapy. As modern society continues to change the way we live, work, and interact, we discuss if virtual therapeutic interactions could be a viable alternative to traditional face-to-face sessions.

We also delve into the world of natural wound care solutions courtesy of CURAD. Here, we discuss clean, "natural" ingredients that are finding their way into our first-aid boxes. From the soothing properties of aloe vera to the healing wonders of manuka honey, we look at how these natural ingredients can be potent alternatives to synthetic ones.

Thank you for choosing LIVING WELL Magazine as your trusted companion in the journey to wellness. We hope the stories and articles in this issue not only educate and inform but also inspire you to live well and thrive.

Happy reading!

SAM AND SPRING HOUSTON

Living Well Living

JULY/AUGUST 2023

PRESIDENT & CEO SAM HOUSTON

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EDITOR, FEATURE WRITER & SOCIAL MEDIA SONDRA BARR

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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!”

PATIENT CENTRIC

BY SONDRA BARR PHOTOGRAPHY EM CORPORATE

Taking care of people is all in a life’s work for orthopedic surgeon Justin M. Kane.

“If you know what you want to do and you can stay laser focused on the goal and what you’re trying to achieve, anything is possible.”

Justin Michael Kane, MD, has always been drawn toward helping people. A renowned board-certified foot and ankle surgeon, as a young boy he envisioned himself as a doctor, saving lives. He’s doing just that at the Orthopedic Institute of North Texas, an orthopedic medical practice in Frisco and now in Flower Mound that he created to ensure exceptional patient care is the priority.

Dr. Kane’s desire to help those in need was cemented after completing his undergraduate degree at the highly regarded engineering college Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

Rather than go directly into medical school, he moved to Arizona to take care of his widowed grandmother. In addition to keeping an eye on her, he was working as an emergency room tech. It was in the ER where he witnessed a life-changing scene unfold that served as the catalyst for his lifetime pursuit of excellence in orthopedic surgery.

“An older woman came in with a dislocated hip. It was very much like out of a tv show,” explains Dr. Kane. “They called the orthopedic surgeon. It’s late at night and he comes striding in. He’s in his scrubs and has his beeper on. He sees the lady and literally jumps on her bed, straddles her, grabs her leg and pops her hip back in. Instantaneously, she was better. I had never seen anything like that before. At that moment, I knew I wanted to do that.”

“To be able to give someone instant relief and make them better was the quintessential definition to me of doctoring. There’s a problem, you fix it right then, and the patient is immediately better,” says Dr. Kane. “I didn’t know what kind of orthopedic surgeon, but I wanted to do surgery clearly. I wanted to make people feel better like I saw that doctor in Arizona do.”

With his board exams about to expire, he persuaded his grandmother to pack up and move back east. There, he was able to keep an eye on her while attending medical school at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he worked alongside some of the most influential orthopedic surgeons in the country.

Dr. Kane went on to complete an internship at Temple University Hospital before returning to Thomas Jefferson University Hospital to finish his orthopedic surgery residency with the world class surgeons at the most highly sought-after program with The Rothman Institute. The next step was completing a fellowship in foot and ankle surgery at Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas.

“I had a wonderful mentor who was a foot and ankle surgeon,” explains Dr. Kane of his decision to specialize in that area. “People always think feet are stinky or you’re treating toenails, but this doctor really brought home a lot of the engineering principles that go into what I learned in college.”

Dr. Kane is fascinated by the foot’s adherence to the same principles as ancient Roman architecture that has remained standing for thousands of years without mortar.

“The foot is built in the same exact way. In the mid foot, there’s a structure called the Roman arch, where one of the bones is shaped like a wedge and the top of the arch is called a keystone. The keystone is a wedge-shaped stone that holds the entire thing together.”

In the same vein, Dr. Kane attributes strong mentorship from exceptional surgeons as a keystone to his success. And, as it turns out, when Dr. Kane arrived in Texas to complete his fellowship, it was

one of his mentors that he joined at Orthopedic Associates of Dallas, a Baylor group.

“I was an associate professor with Texas A&M University. I was working for Baylor. I was training residents, training fellows,” says Dr. Kane, who found himself at a crossroads as his contract with Baylor was expiring.

“The days of being a big hospital downtown and having people drive in to see you from all over is not what people want any more. People want to be able to get their subspecialty, fellowship-trained care from experts in their field in their backyard,” says Dr. Kane.

Knowing there was a better, more holistic way of providing care to the community, he set out to create a practice that does just that.

Through hard work and perseverance, along with the guidance of a lawyer, key community stalwarts, and his office manager, Dr. Kane started the Orthopedic Institute of North Texas (OINT).

“If you know what you want to do and you can stay laser focused on the goal and what you’re trying to achieve, anything is possible,” exclaims Dr. Kane.

He’s built the preferred full-service orthopedic surgery practice in Texas with the flagship office in Frisco and a new location in Flower Mound which opened in December 2022. He’s done so by adhering to the values outlined in the OINT acronym:

OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE:

We deliver outstanding clinical and operational performance in everything we do.

INTEGRITY:

We treat each other and our patients honorably, truthfully, and respectfully.

NEIGHBORLY ATTITUDE:

We take an active role in supporting our local communities, our neighborly attitude transcends throughout the communities we serve.

TEAMWORK:

We work collaboratively to ensure great patient experiences and outcomes.

“I just want to help people. That is the philosophy that I’ve instilled in my practice and younger doctors.”

“I just want to help people. That is the philosophy that I’ve instilled in my younger doctors,” says Dr. Kane, who’s intricately involved in not only taking care of patients. “I run this practice. I’m involved in every interview and every hiring decision. I sit in on every staff meeting because I want the team to know that I’m invested in them as a staff and that my expectation of them is that we, as a group, are invested in the patients.”

Dr. Kane handpicked the exceptional doctors on his staff, including hand, wrist, shoulder, and elbow orthopedic surgeon Vikas Patel, MD; foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon Leroy Butler, DO and minimally invasive spine orthopedic surgeon, Chris Kowalski, MD.

“We are partners. There’s no other practice I know in this area where you care about your partners’ success. To make them successful means that you’re successful because you’re doing your job of taking care of people,” says Dr. Kane.

From minimally invasive bunion surgery that allows patients to walk out of the hospital the same day to 3D printing for non-reconstructable issues with the feet and ankles that eliminates amputation, the OINT team utilizes cutting edge technology for exceptional outcomes that eliminate pain and save lives.

“I’m a foot and ankle surgeon and I save people’s lives. The stakes are very high at what we do,” points out Dr. Kane. “If there’s a complication with limb salvage, the patient could potentially die.”

About a third of people who have their legs cut off from a diabetes-related complication will be dead in three years and more than 50% of diabetics who have their legs cut off will be dead in five years, so avoiding amputation is paramount.

With patient care always top of mind, Dr. Kane provides every patient his personal cell phone number. “What sense does it make for the patient to have to jump through hoops to get a hold of their doctor, but equally what sense does it make for the doctor to have to talk to three or four people before they talk to their patient.”

The welcoming OINT environment encourages communication and trust between doctors, staff, and patients. They speak in terms that patients understand. “It’s a very ancient sacred bond that a patient and a doctor have,” says Dr. Kane, who makes it a priority to sit down with every patient and discuss the steps of their medical treatment.

This laser focus on patient care extends to Dr. Kane’s philanthropic work. Prior to COVID, he made regular trips to perform surgery in Vietnam and the Dominican Republic for those less fortunate. He’s also applied to travel to the Ukraine to perform surgery on war victims. His reasoning is simple: “I’ll do everything I can to help as many people as I can and give back in places where patients can wait weeks, sometimes months to get care.”

While a lot of his efforts are devoted to making sure the community gets the care it needs, Dr. Kane and his wife enjoy their life together in Texas and welcomed their first-born son in April 2023.

“You can’t take care of patients if you’re not taking care of yourself,” he says. “You have to be a good steward of what medicine embodies and you have to be a good role model. How can I go into a patient’s room and approach a conversation about body mass index if I myself am not physically fit?”

To learn more about the Dr. Kane and his exceptional team, visit oint.org.

At the Orthopedic Institute of North Texas (OINT), our staff will welcome you in our spacious waiting room. From the time you arrive, they will make sure your check-in and check-out experience is fast and seamless. They are dedicated to provide friendly patient-centered service ensuring your experience is second to none.

Before, During, and After Cataract Surgery

Courtesy KEY-WHITMAN EYE CENTER

If cataract surgery has been recommended for your eyes, you are not alone. Truth is, we will all develop cataracts, reducing our quality of vision, as we age. Gratefully, cataract surgery procedures have become more advanced and is safe, painless and effective.

If you are thinking about having cataract surgery, you most likely have a lot of questions regarding when you should have it done, what you can expect, and how to prepare for surgery. Read on to see some helpful tips from Dr. Whitman at Key-Whitman.

What Are The Common Symptoms Of Cataracts?

The complaint we hear most from cataract patients is difficulties with their night vision. They begin to experience a lot of glare, halos and starburst symptoms, especially when driving. We also hear complaints of a haze or fog obstructing their vision and they’ll notice their vision gets blurrier over time.

How Do I Prepare For Cataract Surgery?

Before your procedure, our patients undergo a preoperative exam to gather measurements to determine the level of correction needed and review the types of intraocular lens options available. We will also schedule a visit to listen to your heart and lungs as well as review prior anesthesia and surgeries, medical history and medications to ensure they’re physically healthy enough to have cataract surgery.

Key-Whitman also has counselors who will walk our patients through the process, review insurance coverage and make sure the

lens option the patient selects best meets their goals. If there is an eye drop protocol associate with their surgery, the counselor will also go through the drop sequence involved—antibiotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories—well in advance of the procedure.

Be sure to have a friend or family member to accompany you to surgery, as you won’t be allowed to drive yourself home due to the twilight sedation.

How Do I Know It’s Time To Have Cataract Surgery?

When your cataracts have worsened to the point where they prevent you from performing day-to-day tasks and interfere with your quality of life, it is time to consider cataract surgery.

Cataracts worsen gradually, and we start to make a lot of accommodations for our vision as we get older. Essentially, we assume how well we see is normal. But if it gets to the point where you’re afraid to drive at night, can’t see well enough to safely take your medication or do household chores, and feel a loss of independence due to failing vision, cataract surgery can allow you to enjoy life again.

What Misconceptions Do People Have About Cataract Surgery?

In the past, cataract surgery was quite invasive, there were fewer lens options, and healing took much longer. This isn’t the case today. The biggest misconceptions people have is that the procedure is painful and complicated. That couldn’t be farther from the truth today.

Ronald M. Barke, MD; Chian-Huey (Amy) Hong, MD; Rosemary Sanchez, OD

What Can I Expect Following Cataract Surgery?

Following your surgery, your surgeon will review the procedure with you and answer any questions you may have at that time. Typically, patients leave with a protective eye patch, which will be removed at their follow-up visit the next day. Subsequent follow-up examinations will be scheduled approximately every two weeks until the eye is healed.

Healing post-surgery is also easier for most cataract patients today. “Key-Whitman uses the most advanced technology available, so healing occurs more quickly and with fewer complications. Even better, once the eyes have healed and adjusted, most patients are surprised by the improvement in their vision. They can see clearly again and notice how colors are much more vibrant than before with cataracts. Depending on the type of intraocular lenses patients choose, many become less dependent on glasses,” Dr. Whitman says. You should also be aware that the surgeon won’t operate on both eyes during the same visit. Surgeries are typically scheduled one to two weeks apart. This allows plenty of time for the first eye to heal and the patient to realize the full extent of correction in that eye.

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.

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

Expert Orthopedic Surgeons Close to Home

Left to right

Duncan L. McKellar, Jr., MD

Brian Nwannunu, MD

Florian F. Dibra, MD

Charles E. Toulson, MD

Cyrus Abbaschian, MD

Donald W. Hohman, MD

J. Stephen Appleton, MD

Alexander S. Greenstein, MD

Kwame A. Ennin, MD

Samuel K. Stephenson, MD

STAND OUT WITH THE EMINENT CHOICE IN HEALTHCARE

Pain Management • Sports Medicine • General Surgery • Spine Surgery

Orthopedic Surgery • Neurosurgery • Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Total Joint Surgery • Foot & Ankle Surgery • Hand Surgery

Gynecological Surgery • Plastic Surgery

ROBOTIC TECHNOLOGY

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

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

HEALTHCARE ADVANCE DIRECTIVES

Courtesy LEU & PEIRCE, PLLC

Healthcare Advance Directives are a vital part of your estate plan. Each of the advance directives plays a distinct role in ensuring that when the time comes, your healthcare wishes are followed. A Medical Power of Attorney, HIPAA Release and Authorization, and Directive to Physicians (also known as a Living Will) work in concert to provide trusted individuals with the tools they will need to manage your healthcare and make health-related decisions for you, should you become unable to do so for yourself.

Medical Power of Attorney

A Medical Power of Attorney enables you to name a trusted individual as your agent to make healthcare decisions for you in accordance with your wishes. As long as you are awake and can understand and answer a medical professional, you always make your own healthcare decisions. If you are not capable of making or communicating your decisions, your agent under the Medical Power of Attorney has authority to act for you. Your agent is obligated to follow your wishes when making healthcare decisions for you, to the extent you have made those wishes known. If there is no evidence of your wishes, your agent should make decisions based on your best interests; however, treatment may not be given, or withheld, if you object. This is true whether you are competent or not. Although you are not required to designate alternate agents, it is advisable that you name at least one additional person, if not more, whom you trust to act on your behalf and in accordance with your beliefs and desires. For many reasons, your agent may not be able to act when a decision needs to be made. Therefore, having alternate agents named can be very important.

HIPAA Release and Authorization

HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996) is a federal law that requires doctors, nurses, hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare providers to protect the privacy of patient health information. A HIPAA Release and Authorization document names individuals you trust to have access to this protected health information. When you execute a HIPAA Release and Authorization, you are giving your healthcare providers permission to discuss your

health information with those trusted individuals. This can be an important tool for those who are assisting you with your healthcare and want to stay informed of your status. Without such access, your agents may not have all the information they need when it is time to act under the Medical Power of Attorney. This document also allows you to keep others who are close to you informed of your medical condition, even if they cannot make decisions.

Directive to Physicians and Family or Surrogates (Living Will)

A Directive to Physicians and Family or Surrogates, commonly known as a Living Will, provides information and instructions to your agent under the Medical Power of Attorney regarding your desires to administer, withhold, or withdraw life-sustaining treatment should you be diagnosed with a terminal or irreversible condition. Although commonly confused, a Living Will is not the same as a Do Not Resuscitate Order (“DNR”). A DNR should be signed only after receiving an explanation from a physician, who also signs the document to confirm you were provided the information necessary to make a sound decision. While a Living Will addresses life-sustaining treatment before your heart has stopped beating, a DNR instructs medical personnel not to perform emergency resuscitation after your heart has stopped beating. Importantly, medical personnel must see a properly executed DNR prior to beginning resuscitation procedures, as they cannot stop resuscitation procedures once they have begun.

An experienced attorney who practices in this area of the law understands each of these documents and how to tailor them to your unique circumstances, wishes, and family dynamics. Advice on Healthcare Advance Directives, as well as other interrelated legal issues should be provided by an attorney who works in this area on a daily basis. There is a reason that professionals like attorneys and doctors are licensed—they are providing important services and are required to meet strict standards. If you need help with your estate plan, or have questions about Healthcare Advance Directives, please contact our office for a consultation.

Dear Olivia,

My 94-year-old grandmother has been living alone in her home, but she has had multiple falls lately, and we are concerned that she may need more support with her care. As we look at the best caregiving options to ensure she is not alone, how do we know when she is ready for hospice?

-Unsure of Next Steps

Dear Unsure of Next Steps, I am glad that you as a family are pursuing options for caregiving. This is often the most difficult part of the aging process—determining when it is not safe for someone to live alone anymore. There are many options for supporting an aging loved one such as bringing caregiving support into the home, looking assisted living, memory care or skilled nursing facilities, as well as other long-term care solutions. Often a Medical Social Worker (MSW) can assist with finding the right solution. You can ask her primary care physician if this resource is available to your grandmother. In terms of the medical component of her care and determining when someone is ready for the

hospice benefit, there are several easy questions to consider. First, an increase or onset of falls is important to track, so keep notes on when the falls occur and if there are any injuries. Also, consider what activities of daily living, such as bathing, toileting, dressing and preparing food, may be becoming more difficult, as this decline is important in hospice consideration. Also, as people age or begin to decline, they may eat less, and weight loss may become evident, which is a factor in determining decline. Another indicator of decline is how often an individual is hospitalized or visits the emergency department; keep a list of these encounters. Lastly, if a loved one is expressing that they no longer wish to pursue curative therapy or go to the hospital, that is a sign that it may be time to have a conversation with the physician about next steps in care. All of these factors play a role in the family beginning to consider hospice care, and the physician determining if it is the right level of care. Best wishes to you, as we all want to ensure our loved ones get the best care possible at the right time. ~Olivia

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.

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

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. Now, two locations to better serve you.

Justin M. Kane, MD ~ Foot and Ankle Orthopedic Surgeon

•Minimally invasive bunion and foot/ ankle surgeries

•4-D DynaBunion and Lapiplasty bunion correction

•Total ankle replacement (TAR)

•Hammer toes

•Arthritis and deformity correction

•Lateral ankle instability

•PARS Achilles repair

•Foot and ankle cartilage injuries

•Limb salvage surgery

Vikas V. Patel, MD ~ Upper Extremity Orthopedic Surgeon

•All fractures

•Shoulder arthroscopy

•Rotator cuff repair

•Sports related injuries

•Carpel tunnel syndrome

•Trigger finger

•Wrist and hand surgery

•Shoulder and elbow replacement

•Complex revision procedures of the upper extremity

Leroy Butler, DO, FAAOS ~ Foot and Ankle Orthopedic Surgeon

•Minimally invasive bunion and foot/ankle surgeries

•4-D DynaBunion and Lapiplasty bunion correction

•Total ankle replacement (TAR)

•Arthritis and deformity correction

•Lateral ankle instability

•PARS Achilles repair

•Foot and ankle cartilage injuries

•Trauma

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

BRUCE WILLIS

A LOOK INTO THE LIFE, CAREER, AND CHALLENGES FACED BY THE SILVER SCREEN LEGEND, AS HE STEPS AWAY FROM THE LIMELIGHT DUE TO A HEALTH CRISIS.

BY SONDRA BARR

In the tapestry of Hollywood, the name Bruce Willis holds a unique echo. A dynamic and lasting presence in the realm of movies, Willis has delighted audiences worldwide with unforgettable roles, iconic one–liners, and myriad thrilling scenes. Now, at the age of 68, he finds himself stepping back from a career that spreads across more than 40 years due to a health condition that challenges him beyond the most formidable on–screen foes he’s encountered.

In 2022, Willis’ family, including his wife Emma Heming Willis, former spouse Demi Moore, and his daughters, revealed his diagnosis of aphasia, a disorder associated with frontotemporal dementia (FTD). This condition predominantly impacts the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, resulting in progressive shifts in personality, behavior, and language, as explained by the Mayo Clinic. The diagnosis was preceded by a string of performances where Willis’s cognitive challenges were becoming increasingly apparent.

Informed sources quoted in a March 2023 article from the Los Angeles Times revealed that around June 2020, the director of Out of Death, Mike Burns, had suggested in an email to the film’s scriptwriter that Willis’s role be reduced, and his lines be simplified. Other movie makers aired concerns about Willis’ welfare, as he displayed signs of cognitive decline on set. Willis reportedly had trouble memorizing his lines, frequently requiring an earpiece to deliver them. Even action sequences, typically Willis’s forte, were performed by a stand–in.

Per the article, multiple individuals have expressed worry about Willis’s health over the past few years, with the report noting that he “has shown indications of declining health in recent years.” The Emmy–winning actor, recognized for his roles in numerous direct–to–video releas-

es in recent years, is said to have been paid “a sum of $2 million for two days of shooting” on his recent projects, according to documents examined by the Times. His management team, which includes representatives from the Creative Artists Agency, outlined that he should not work more than two days on any single project and that his filming should not exceed eight hours per day. Yet, he usually filmed for just half that time, insiders in the production team shared with the Times

A number of crew members aired their concerns regarding Willis’s on–set behavior. Two crew members recalled Willis questioning aloud during filming, “I comprehend your presence here, but why am I here?” Another crew member detailed an instance where “A line was delivered to him, and he struggled to grasp its implication. It seemed like he was merely following directives.”

In spite of these hurdles, Willis’s commitment to his profession remained unwavering. From 2020 to 2023, his name graced the promotional material of more than two dozen movies, including Hard Kill, Out of Death, American Siege, and A Day to Die. These performances may not have embodied the full dynamism of Willis’s earlier work, but they testify to an undeniable determination.

That very determination also carried him through a prolific career that most actors can only aspire to. From his breakthrough role in the 1980s TV series Moonlighting, which won him a Golden Globe, to his unforgettable interpretation of detective John McClane in the Die Hard franchise, Willis has made a lasting impact on Hollywood. His collaborations with celebrated directors like M. Night Shyamalan, Wes Anderson, and Terry Gilliam bear testament to his range and skill.

“Bruce has always found joy in life—and has helped everyone he knows to do the same. It has meant the world to see that sense of care echoed back to him and to all of us.”

Beyond the camera, Willis is a cherished personality. He shares two daughters, Mabel Ray and Evelyn Penn, with Heming Willis, and has three daughters, Rumer, Scout, and Tallulah, with Moore. His eldest daughter, Rumer Willis, communicated the family’s deep emotions in an Instagram post, stating: “Bruce has always found joy in life—and has helped everyone he knows to do the same. It has meant the world to see that sense of care echoed back to him and to all of us.”

The actor’s condition poses a challenge not just for him, but also for the millions around the world who grapple with similar diagnoses. Frontotemporal dementia, which can lead to aphasia, not only disrupts communication but also motor function and movement.

FTD differs from Alzheimer’s in its age of onset and symptoms, usually affecting those in their 40s to 60s, and results in loss of functionality in personality, behavior, and language, as opposed to memory loss or spatial disorientation. Although treatment can mitigate symptoms, the disease progressively intensifies over time, with about 30% of those affected inheriting the disease. There are no known risk factors, adding an additional layer of uncertainty to an already challenging condition, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Despite these adversities, Willis and his family are transforming this personal battle into a broader platform for awareness. “Bruce always believed in using his voice in the world to help others, and to raise awareness about important issues both publicly and privately. We know in our hearts that—if he could today—he would want to respond by bringing global attention and a connectedness with those who are also dealing with this debilitating disease and how it impacts so many individuals and their families,” his family said.

Over the past decade, Willis’s work, particularly his frequent appearances in direct–to–video and smaller–budget films, appears to mirror a common theme in his blockbuster roles: a steadfast fighter, undaunted by the odds. As he battles this new off–screen enemy, the resilience and grit that marked his cinematic performances inspire hope for his personal journey.

Although it’s saddening to see Willis, a figure so entwined with Hollywood’s identity, withdraw from the public eye, his career stands as a testament to a life lived with full vigor, displaying a relentless spirit of endurance and resilience. His current struggle serves as a poignant reminder of the personal battles faced by those affected by conditions like FTD. In confronting his diagnosis, Willis has the opportunity to increase global awareness and encourage further research into this and related conditions.

From his breakout role in Moonlighting to his last performance in Assassin, which was released in March, Willis’s influence on the film industry is profound and enduring. As he navigates the trials ahead, his bravery and resilience continue to inspire. His family’s statement captures the sentiment: “Your continued compassion, understanding, and respect will enable us to help Bruce live as full a life as possible.”

In the end, Bruce Willis, the actor, the father, and now, the warrior in a battle against FTD, embodies the spirit of his numerous on–screen characters: unyielding, resilient, and ultimately, unbowed. His current journey may not be one that he chose, but it’s one that he—and millions around the world— are confronting with courage and dignity. This phase in Willis’s life story adds a new layer to his legacy.

To learn more about FTD, or to donate to find a cure, visit theaftd.org.

(1998)

Pictures

The Fifth Element (1997) Columbia Pictures

Moonlighting (1985)

Photo Courtesy ABC

The Sixth Sense (1999) Buena Vista Pictures

Die Hard 2 (1990) Twentieth Century Fox

Total

Total

Partial

Total

“Where we are committed to excellence”

Cantex Continuing Care Network has been performing the highest standards of transitional healthcare and long-term residential services for more than 30 years. Ask anyone who knows. Cantex stands for quality.

AMENITIES: CLINICAL SERVICES

•Private and semi-private studios, some with kitchen elements and/or Frenchdoor courtyard patios

•Flat-Screen televisions

•32 channels of satellite television service

•Wi-Fi internet access

•Electric beds for easy comfort adjustments

•Living room with fireplace and player piano

•Library with computer stations and complimentary internet access

•Chapel

•Neighborhood cafes with complimentary premium beverages and snacks

•Restaurant-Style dining room

•Beauty/barber shop with full-time beautician

•Activity program with community outings

•Sedan and van for resident transportation

•Around-the-clock skilled nursing

•Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapies

•Wound Management

•Intravenous Therapy

•Tracheotomy Care

•Physician Services

•Medication Administration

•Enteral/Parenteral Therapy

•X-Ray Services

•Laboratory Services

Patient–Centric

HEALTHCARE

WITH A UNIQUE BLEND OF MEDICAL EXPERTISE, INNOVATION, AND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT, NORTH TEXAS ORTHOPAEDIC & SPINE IS REDEFINING ORTHOPEDIC HEALTHCARE AND DRIVING POSITIVE CHANGE IN THE COMMUNITY.

By Sondra Barr

Photography EM Corporate

FRONT ROW (L TO R): CHARLES MARDER, DPM; STEVE HONG, MD; VUDHI SLABISAK, MD; JAMES STANLEY, MD; BRIANA HODGSON, PA–C; RAMI BASATNEH, DPM

SECOND ROW (L TO R): AMIR MALIK, MD; RAHUL BANERJEE, MD; BRUCE MARKMAN, MD; KELVIN CHENG, DPM; KHAWAJA IKRAM, DO

In the vibrant landscape of North Texas, a group of exceptional medical professionals shape the region’s healthcare by reshaping lives through their focused dedication and unyielding commitment to comprehensive patient care.

North Texas Orthopaedic & Spine (NTOS), a pioneering medical practice rooted in the vision of its founder, Dr. Vudhi Slabisak, transcends the traditional boundaries of medical care. The practice thrives on a unique philosophy that centers on patient–first ethos, collective goals, and independence of its physicians. This vision is fueled by Dr. Slabisak, who values preserving the autonomy of surgeons and upholding the sanctity of independent practices.

The center has grown to accommodate 12 surgeons in just four years. While Dr. Slabisak’s commitment to a brighter, more patient–centric future for healthcare has been the driving force behind this growth, the team of talented doctors each bringing their unique skills and experiences to the practice, enhancing its reputation and reach. Their collective wisdom and medical prowess have rapidly transformed NTOS into an unmatched hub of orthopedic and spinal care.

Dr. James Stanley, a native Texan, who brings over 20 years of experience as a board–certified orthopedic and fellowship–trained spine surgeon. He specializes in the treatment of conditions and disorders of the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine. “Here, the focus is not just on curing, but empowering patients by helping them understand their condition and making informed decisions,” Dr. Stanley remarks. His commitment to a multi–disciplinary, collaborative approach to spine care echoes the patient–centric ethos of NTOS.

Dr. Rahul Banerjee lends his expertise as a board–certified orthopedic surgeon in trauma, hip and knee replacement, limb lengthening, and management of other complex orthopedic problems. Dr. Banerjee embraces the practice’s emphasis on individual growth, collective success, and systemic change. He echoes the sentiments of Dr. Slabisak, saying, “Every patient deserves individualized, comprehensive care, which is the cornerstone of our practice.”

On the sports medicine front, board–certified orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Bruce Markman’s compassionate approach and adept skills in shoulder reconstruction, elbow, shoulder, hip, knee, and ankle surgery, bring a dynamic element to the clinic. Dr. Markman notes, “NTOS is driven by a philosophy of empathy. We treat each patient as if they were family.”

Dr. Steve Hong, an anesthesiologist and ACGME fellowship–trained interventional pain management physician, is able to focus and serve the unique needs of the individual to provide personalized pain management to every patient.

Dr. Amir Malik, a board–certified neurosurgeon, specializes in cranial, spinal, and peripheral neurology, bringing a rich background in research, lectures, and clinical work to the center.

HERE, THE FOCUS IS NOT JUST ON CURING, BUT EMPOWERING PATIENTS BY HELPING THEM UNDERSTAND THEIR CONDITION AND MAKING INFORMED DECISIONS. “ ”

TOP DOCS 2023 Livingwell

PROVIDERS HEALTHCARE AND OTHER

Bringing the focus to hip and knee replacement and regenerative medicine is NTOS’s board–certified orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Khawaja Ikram. He firmly believes in educating patients about their conditions and treating them as family. Dr. Ikram adds, “The beauty of NTOS lies in its balance of professional excellence, personal empathy, and systemic change.”

Podiatrists, Dr. Charles Marder and Dr. Kellvan Cheng bring podiatric excellence to the practice, ensuring comprehensive care for the patients. Dr. Marder is board–certified in podiatric surgery with special interests in reconstructive foot and ankle surgery. Dr. Cheng is board–certified in podiatric surgery as well as reconstructive rearfoot and ankle surgery.

Dr. Rami Basatneh, another eminent podiatrist, received his Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine from Temple University’s School of Podiatric Medicine and contributes his expertise and leadership skills to the practice. He has extensive training in reconstructive rearfoot and ankle surgery and brings vibrant energy to the clinic’s environment.

Rounding off the team is Briana Hodgson, PA–C, a certified physician assistant with over 20 years of experience in orthopedic surgery. Hodgson works alongside Dr. Banerjee, focusing on treatment of fractures and injuries, total hip and knee arthroplasty, and management of complex orthopedic problems.

Joining the practice in the upcoming months will be Dr. Geoffrey Glidden, who is a board–certified orthopaedic surgeon and sports medicine doctor with over 40 years of experience. Dr. Glidden specializes in the care of acute and chronic bone, joint, ligament, muscle, tendon and peripheral nerve disorders.

Along with Dr. Slabisak, each provider’s rich tapestry of skills, experiences, and commitments of the doctors at NTOS make it a beacon of orthopedic excellence.

Their relentless commitment to research and innovation has also put them at the forefront of medical advancements. With numerous breakthroughs, the team at NTOS remains dedicated to finding the most effective and least invasive treatments to benefit their patients.

Beyond the walls of the practice, NTOS is also committed to community service and philanthropy. The providers are regular contributors to local charities, participate in community health initiatives, and sponsor local sports teams, all of which embodies their belief that a healthy community is the cornerstone of individual well–being.

Dr. Slabisak, reflecting on the journey, says, “Our growth and success are a testament to our commitment to our patients. We believe in a patient–centric approach that values empathy, understanding, and quality care above all. We are proud of our achievements and remain dedicated to improving the lives of our patients and making a positive impact in our community.”

With its combination of medical expertise, patient–focused care, and community involvement, North Texas Orthopaedic & Spine is more than just a medical center. It is a place where patients are treated as individuals, where doctors work collaboratively to deliver the best possible care, and where the wellbeing of the community is as important as the wellbeing of the individual.

As they look to the future, NTOS is poised to continue its growth and influence, not only in the realm of orthopedics but in the broader healthcare sector. Driven by their motto, “Excellence in Motion,” they are committed to continuing to drive advancements in patient care and to ensure that their patients receive the most effective treatments possible. Their dedication to quality, innovation, and community sets them apart, making them a leading example of the possibilities of modern healthcare.

PLANO

4090 Mapleshade Ln., Ste. 100 Plano, TX 75093

FRISCO

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

DALLAS

Lakewood Medical Centeer

6243 Retail Rd., Ste. 500 Dallas, TX 75231

CARROLLTON

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

KAUFMAN

2300 Commerce Way Kaufman, TX 75142

MCKINNEY

1505 Harroun Ave., Ste. F McKinney, TX 75069

MESQUITE

1102 N. Galloway Mesquite, TX 75149

» 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

Hearing Matters

Courtesy HEARING SERVICES OF McKINNEY

What’s the best thing you’ve ever heard? Maybe it was the first song you danced to at your wedding, or a putt landing in the cup on the 18th hole, or your child’s (or grandchild’s) voice. What we hear matters; it breathes depth and life into every experience we have.

Hearing loss disconnects you from the people and things you love. The changes might be small at first––asking people to repeat themselves, reading lips, straining to hear on the phone, turning up the TV, etc. But over time, you may find yourself missing the bulk of a conversation or avoiding events you never used to miss.

Now for great news: there’s plenty you and your loved ones can do to stay tuned in to every moment.

First of all, get informed and understand the facts about hearing loss. Hearing loss is more common than you think. There are 36 million Americans with hearing loss and a third of those people will be over the age of 60. Your loved ones will be the first to notice. Hearing loss can cause isolation and depression and can build a wall around you. Older adults with untreated hearing loss are more likely to report depression and anxiety, and less likely to join in social gatherings. Untreated hearing loss can increase the risk of dementia by 50%. So, don’t wait to get evaluated. Most hearing loss is treatable. In fact, 95% of hearing loss is treatable with hearing aids.

Talk about it. If you realize someone you love is having problems with hearing, talk with them about it. Encourage them to make an appointment with an audiologist. It can be helpful to go with the loved one to the appointment.

See an audiologist. During an audiologic appointment to evaluate your hearing, several steps are typically involved to determine

the appropriate course of action. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect:

The audiologist will review your medical history, hearingrelated concerns, and symptoms. They may ask about your lifestyle, occupation, and exposure to noise or other factors that could impact your hearing.

The audiologist will conduct a physical examination of your ears using an otoscope, a handheld device that allows them to examine the ear canal and the condition of your eardrum.

A hearing test will be performed called “Pure-tone audiometry.” It is the most common hearing test and can show the softest decibel level you can detect at different frequencies. The audiologist will play a series of tones at different frequencies, and you will indicate when you hear them. Additional tests can be performed based on your specific needs including “Speech Audiometry” which assess your ability to understand speech and any difficulties you may have in understanding speech.

Once your testing is complete, the audiologist will discuss the results with you and explain the degree and type of hearing loss you have, if any. If you need to proceed with hearing aids, the audiologist will guide you through the process of selecting suitable devices. They will consider factors such as your hearing loss, lifestyle, cosmetic preferences, and budget.

Keep any follow-up appointments, especially if you have opted for hearing aids, to help fine-tune the settings of your hearing aids based on your feedback and to address any questions or concerns you may have.

Most important to remember is to act fast. Why wait? Every word, every sound, and every moment is worth listening to. Better hearing keeps you connected!

Named for a bitter saline spring at Epsom in Surrey, England, Epsom salt is not actually salt but a naturally occurring mineral compound of magnesium sulfate. Long known as a natural remedy for several ailments, Epsom salt can be used to relax muscles and relieve pain in the shoulders, neck and back. It can also be applied to sunburns or dissolved in the bath to help relieve sore muscles or detox.

NATURAL SOLUTIONS FOR WOUND CARE

Courtesy CURAD

Many people look for natural products with “clean” ingredients, especially in the food, beverage, skin care and beauty categories. In fact, the market for clean label ingredients is projected to reach $64.1 billion by 2026, according to Allied Market Research.

For many common ailments or minor injuries, there’s a natural treatment that can be used in place of hard-to-pronounce ingredients and preservatives.

“This same kind of clean ingredient demand is migrating to the first-aid space with many of these natural alternatives being used to treat anything from scrapes and bug bites to wound odor and pulled or sore muscles,” said Dr. Billy Goldberg, a New York Times best-selling authorand emergency room physician. “In fact, some companies are beginning to incorporate these kinds of natural and efficacious ingredients right into their products.”

Goldberg and the first-aid experts at CURAD, which have made adhesive bandages since 1951, offer these suggestions for natural ingredients you can use at home to treat common ailments:

Few things soothe sunburn like aloe vera. With analgesic, anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that ease the healing process, aloe vera gel contains phytochemicals that help reduce pain and inflammation. Also helpful in the healing process of cuts and scrapes, the CURAD Naturals line of adhesive bandages are infused with aloe vera in the wound pad and surface of the bandage, which is enriched with the antioxidant vitamin E to help soothe and moisturize skin.

A mild antiseptic that can be used to prevent infection of minor cuts, scrapes and burns, hydrogen peroxide is often used for the initial cleaning of wounds. Simply apply a small amount on the affected area—alternating with water to avoid killing good bacteria—to help release oxygen, which causes foaming that aids in cleaning and the removal of dead skin.

Epsom Salt

Aloe Vera Hydrogen Peroxide

Bicarbonate of soda, commonly known as baking soda, can be used for more than baking. From removing stains to cleaning teeth and more, it can also be used to help treat a variety of wounds. In addition to being an odor absorber, it can be applied to insect stings and bites, such as those from bees or mosquitoes.

Whether making a paste using baking soda and water then applying to the bite or using an option like CURAD Naturals adhesive bandages featuring baking soda, the chemical compound can help soothe the skin. In addition to absorbing wound odor, the bandages provide skin-friendly comfort and stretch with a four-sided seal to keep dirt and germs out.

A honey native to New Zealand, manuka honey contains methylglyoxal as an active ingredient and has unique antibacterial properties that speed healing and help prevent and fight infections when applied as a topical wound treatment. It may also help soothe coughs and sore throats, prevent tooth decay and improve digestive issues.

Introducing Dr. Sebastian, your newest board-certified physician at Texas Health Family Care. She’s here for you and your family with a full range of care – from wellness visits to earaches, from mental health to chronic conditions. New patients welcome. To schedule, call

It’s also helpful to have a first aid kit on hand containing a few basic essentials such as alcohol prep pads and non-stick bandaids. You can learn more about natural first-aid products and tips on wound care at www.curad.com.

Natalya Sebastian, M.D.

Baking Soda

Manuka Honey

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.

THE KOONSFULLER SHAREHOLDERS

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

HEATHER KING*, JESSICA

R2:

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 Avenue, Suite 1500 Dallas, TX 75202 (214) 871-2727

320 W. Eagle Drive, Suite 200 Denton, TX 76201 (940) 442-6677

5700 W. Plano Parkway, Suite 2200 Plano, TX 75093 (972) 769-2727 SOUTHLAKE

550 Reserve Street, Suite 450 Southlake, TX 76092 (817) 481-2710

www.koonsfuller.com

VANDEN EYKEL

RICK ROBERTSON*,

JANICEK*, AND JULIE CRAWFORD*

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.

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

Online Therapy

Is it right for you?

Since COVID-19, online and teletherapy has grown in popularity. This has conveniently let patients talk to therapists from the comfort of their own home. In many cases, online therapy or teletherapy has proven to be an equally effective treatment as in-person therapy for many emotional health problems.

Talking to a professional can help you overcome difficulties, understand your issues, manage symptoms, and heal. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been demonstrated to be as effective as antidepressants in treating moderate to severe depression without adverse effects.

Online therapy—effective?

Online counseling may be as effective as in-person treatment for many people, according to early research. Online counseling helps you talk to a trained expert anywhere in the world without the cost, travel time, or bother of meeting in person. Being in the comfort of your home may help you open up to a therapist.

Texting or using a messaging app for therapy may be more comfortable for some, especially younger people who grew up with it, but it hinders the therapist from assessing your body language and speech. It makes it harder to build trust and support between therapist and patient, which is crucial to therapy. That requires in-person or live video counseling.

Online therapy works best when you open up to your therapist and work hard. To enhance your mood and mental health, use what you learn in sessions and make healthy lifestyle changes. A good therapist can use technology to help you learn and grow.

Online vs. in-person therapy

Online counseling might vary in benefits and cons compared to inperson therapy. Some therapists use third-party websites or directories to interact with patients, while others offer internet counseling through their private offices. Some systems limit therapist-patient communication to messaging or live texting, while others allow weekly phone conversations or live video conferencing. The latter is closer to in-person therapy and more likely to yield the same benefits. Calling, emailing, or messaging your therapist between sessions can be helpful, but experts recommend using it in addition to face-to-face engagement, either in person or by video.

Why therapy requires face-to-face interaction

Humans communicate through body language and other nonverbal indicators. Your habits, posture, and voice say more than your words. Nonverbal communication can assist therapists spot discrepancies between verbal and nonverbal answers. It can also assist them understand your unspoken words.

Benefits of online therapy include:

• CONVENIENCE. Online counseling lets you get support anywhere with a fast internet connection. You don’t have to drive, park, wait in a waiting room, pay for daycare, or take time off work to get to appointments.

• COMFORT. Online therapy can make it easier for you to open up, be more vulnerable, and better manage unpleasant emotions. Online therapy is suitable for people with mobility challenges, chronic disease, or conditions like agoraphobia or social anxiety disorder that make it hard to leave home.

• OPTIONS. If you live in a remote place, a certified therapist is available online. Online therapists are more likely to specialize on your issue, regardless of where you live. (In certain regions, you can only see therapists licensed in your state or nation.) Online counseling makes it easier to switch therapists until you find the ideal one. If your friend in a different city loves their therapist, they may offer online therapy to you.

• EASE OF COMMUNICATION. When you see a therapist for an hour a week, it can be hard to remember all that happened. Emailing or messaging your therapist between sessions lets you express your feelings and issues immediately. Some online counseling programs use messaging to track progress and failures.

• PRIVACY. Mental health care is stigmatized. Online therapy is easier than in-person therapy because it eliminates the risk of running into a friend in the therapist’s parking lot or waiting area.

Drawbacks of online therapy include:

• TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES. Online therapy relies on internet speed and device reliability. If you can’t stream movies, you probably can’t video chat with a therapist. Even the best connections and equipment might malfunction and interrupt your therapy session.

• EMOTIONAL DISCONNECT. Video conferencing is helpful, although it may be harder to emotionally connect with the therapist. Video calls can lose certain body language clues. You may not notice the therapist’s empathy or them noticing your tapping leg under the table.

• UNQUALIFIED PROVIDERS. As with any online service, you risk being scammed. Always examine a therapist’s credentials or use a trusted third-party agency that vets their counselors.

Online therapy isn’t for everyone

Sometimes in-person counseling is better than internet therapy. In-person therapy is better for serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia, suicidal thoughts, and other crises.

Getting the most from online therapy

Seek and compare. Ask questions, read reviews, and use free initial sessions to find the ideal online therapist. You must trust this individual enough to discuss sensitive and difficult topics and be honest about your thoughts and feelings. You may have to talk to a couple before finding the right fit for you.

• KNOW YOUR THERAPY GOALS. What do you want to achieve? The clearer your goals for treatment are, the easier it will be to track your progress and maximize your benefits. Your therapist should know your motivations and address them.

• BE OPEN AND HONEST. Therapy often brings up difficult feelings. Be honest with your therapist. Tell them if a topic is too challenging. Your therapist will help you more if you are honest.

• DO THE WORK. Treatment takes more than weekly chats. You may be assigned homework or asked to practice strategies outside of sessions. Prepare to invest effort to maximize the experience.

• REDUCE DISTRACTIONS. Talking to a professional from home is handy, but if kids, other family members, noisy neighbors, phone calls, or other disruptions interrupt your sessions, you won’t benefit as much from therapy. Choose a peaceful time for therapy, switch off your phone, and mute other apps.

Paying for online therapy

Online counseling is usually less expensive than in-person treatment, but it depends on where you reside, your benefits, and the sort of service.

• Some US health insurers cover internet therapy, but you may need a referral from your primary care physician.

• Depending on your income, you may be able to obtain low-cost online therapy via a community clinic or Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC).

• Psychology departments or campus social workers provide online or in-person therapy at colleges and universities.

• Some employers offer employee assistance programs with free online treatment trials and other types of support.

• Many third-party services offer monthly or yearly subscriptions to reduce the cost, or packages that allow you to purchase multiple sessions at a discounted rate. Some online therapy services even offer free trials so you can sample interacting with a therapist to help gauge if it’s right for you.

Whether it’s online or in-person, many make mental health counseling essential. First, therapy offers a secure, judgment-free space to discuss thoughts, feelings, and worries. It helps people understand their thoughts and actions and improve. Therapists help us manage stress, negotiate challenges, and promote wellbeing, leading to a more satisfying and balanced existence.

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.

Orthopaedic Surgeons located in Richardson, TX

www.LWOrthopaedics.com

Dr. Diane S. Litke, MD

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.