Denton County Living Well Magazine September/October 2025

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 show you our beautiful new community in Denton, located on six beautiful acres conveniently located next to Medical City Denton.

Our facility has 94 private beds with ensuite and shower. We 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 around-theclock 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!

STAND OUT WITH THE EMINENT CHOICE IN HEALTHCARE

Total

Headache

FINDING YOUR RHYTHM

When it comes to living well, the stories in this issue remind us that health, inspiration, and resilience often come from the most unexpected places— like the journey of a globally celebrated artist who has transformed her own life while inspiring millions around the world.

We have turned the spotlight on Alicia Keys, a Grammy-winning artist who’s spent her career breaking boundaries in music and in life. Starting on page 8, her reflections on self-worth, balance, and creativity might just have you rethinking how you define success.

In The Dopamine Menu, Abigail Shaw serves up a refreshingly practical tool for lifting your mood and motivation, one small joy at a time—find it on page 18. It’s not about overhauling your life overnight; it’s about giving yourself a gentle nudge toward better days.

Meanwhile, the article Life After the Bell, on page 37, takes us into the quiet space that follows a cancer patient’s final treatment. It’s a moving exploration of what it means to heal, rebuild, and rediscover yourself in the chapters that follow survival.

Here’s to new perspectives, quiet courage, and the small moments that make all the difference.

Live well,

PRESIDENT & CEO SAM HOUSTON

VICE PRESIDENT & CFO SPRING HOUSTON

EDITOR, FEATURE WRITER & SOCIAL MEDIA SONDRA BARR

ART DIRECTOR VANESSA FRYER

ACCOUNTS MANAGER JENNIFER BEAVERS

WEBSITE LYDIA ROGERS

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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.

All advertisements in this Magazine are placed by third parties. We do not control or endorse either the advertisements or their content. Further, we do not manufacture, sell, distribute or provide any of the goods or services advertised herein. We hereby expressly disclaim any liability with respect to information or goods and services contained herein. We further disclaim any and all warranties or representations, express or implied, with respect to such information, goods or services, including

SPRING AND SAM HOUSTON

SAM AND SPRING HOUSTON

Justin M. Kane, MD

Board-Certified Foot & Ankle Orthopedic Surgeon and Founder of the Orthopedic Institute of North Texas (OINT), Dr. Kane is internationally recognized for his expertise in foot and ankle care. He is a published author, global lecturer, and Professor of Surgery at Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine, actively teaching the next generation of orthopedic surgeons.

Dr. Kane specializes in:

• Bunion and hammertoe correction

• Complex foot and ankle reconstructive surgery

• Surgical and non-surgical treatment of foot and ankle disorders

At the Orthopedic Institute of North Texas, Dr. Kane and his team’s goal is your return to normal activity. We provide surgical and nonsurgical solutions designed to resolve your pain.

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Need some help keeping up with your heart health?

Need some help keeping up with your heart health?

The physicians at Texas Health

The physicians at Texas Health Heart & Vascular Specialists are here to customize care plans around your unique needs and give you a healthier future. From proactive prevention to diagnostics, discover our wide range of compassionate care options and see how we can help. Schedule your in-person or virtual visit today.

& Vascular Specialists are here to customize care plans around your unique needs and give you a healthier future. From proactive prevention to diagnostics, discover our wide range of compassionate care options and see how we can help. Schedule your in-person or virtual visit today.

The physicians at Texas Health Heart & Vascular Specialists are here to customize care plans around your unique needs and give you a healthier future. From proactive prevention to diagnostics, discover our wide range of compassionate care options and see how we can help. Schedule your in-person or virtual visit today.

Deval Desai, M.D.

Alicia Keys

When Alicia Keys steps onto a stage, there’s an unmistakable shift in the air. It’s not just the velvet-rich tone of her voice or the way her fingers dance across the piano keys—it’s the gravity of a woman who has spent her life mastering not only her craft, but also herself. Over two decades into a career that has redefined R&B and soul, Keys continues to expand her artistry, her activism, and her influence—all while living life on her own terms.

Keys has long been a cultural touchstone. From her 2001 breakout hit “Fallin’” to anthems like “No One” and “Empire State of Mind,” her songs have served as soundtracks for love stories, heartbreaks, and moments of triumph. Her career may be defined by chart-topping hits and armfuls of Grammys, but the heart of her journey is rooted in resilience, staying true to herself, and an unshakable drive to keep evolving.

Soulcare, selfworth, and the rituals that keep the Grammy-winning artist grounded.

By SONDRA BARR

Alicia Keys

From Hell’s Kitchen to the World Stage

Born Alicia Augello Cook on January 25, 1981, in New York City, Keys grew up in the vibrant but gritty neighborhood of Hell’s Kitchen. Raised primarily by her mother, Terria Joseph, she was surrounded by a mix of cultures, music, and street energy that would later infuse her art. At age 4, she appeared on The Cosby Show as Rudy Huxtable’s friend, but her true calling emerged when she began piano lessons at 7.

“I was drawn to the piano like it was a long-lost friend,” she’s recalled. Classical training dominated her early years, but by her teens, she was blending Chopin with jazz, soul, and the hip-hop beats of her city. By 14, she was composing her own songs; at 16, she graduated as valedictorian from Manhattan’s Professional Performing Arts School.

It didn’t take long for the industry to notice. Legendary music executive Clive Davis signed her to Arista Records in 1998, later bringing her to his new label, J Records. Her 2001 debut album, Songs in A Minor, was a revelation—a fusion of raw emotion and sophisticated musicianship. The record sold over 10 million copies worldwide and earned Keys five Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist and Song of the Year.

Here (2016), and Alicia (2020) reflected both personal and creative evolution. “Every time I write a song, I never know how it happens,” she told NPR. “It happens, and then I’m on my knees thanking God.”

Her most recent musical chapter includes Keys (2021), the holiday album Santa Baby (2022), and an entirely new frontier—Broadway.

Hell’s Kitchen: A Full-Circle Moment

After more than a decade in development, Keys’s semi-autobiographical jukebox musical Hell’s Kitchen debuted Off-Broadway in 2023 before moving to Broadway in 2024, earning 13 Tony nominations. Inspired by her teenage years, the show tells the story of Ali, a spirited 17-year-old navigating life with her single mother in ’90s New York.

“It’s intentionally not autobiographical,” Keys told Sunday TODAY’s Willie Geist. “Ali is a more gullible, naive version of myself. At its heart, it’s a love story between a mother and a daughter.”

The production blends her chart-topping hits with new compositions, reimagining songs like “Fallin’” in fresh contexts. Seeing icons like Oprah Winfrey and Michelle Obama in the audience was, she admitted, surreal. “It’s a new experience, a new challenge,” she told Today. “I’m a newbie in this world.”

Building a Legacy, Album by Album

Following her debut, Keys proved she was no one-hit wonder. Th Diary of Alicia Keys (2003) delivered classics like “If I Ain’t Got You” and “You Don’t Know My Name,” winning her four more Grammys. A collaboration with Usher, “My Boo,” dominated the charts in 2004, and in 2005, her MTV Unplugged album showcased her in stripped-down, soulful form.

In 2007, As I Am brought us “No One,” another Grammy-winning anthem. That same year, she and Jack White recorded “Another Way to Die” for the James Bond film Quantum of Solace. Her 2009 collaboration with Jay-Z on “Empire State of Mind” became a love letter to her hometown and a global hit.

Albums like The Element of Freedom (2009), Girl on Fire (2012),

Activism with Heart

For Keys, art and activism are inseparable. In 2003, she co-founded Keep a Child Alive, which provides treatment and support for families affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa and India. She has been a vocal advocate for racial justice, launching her Moonshot initiative to push for systemic reforms in underserved communities.

She’s also committed to empowering women and girls, often speaking about self-worth and self-expression. “Beauty is individuality and wisdom,” she told Glamour. “It’s a deep-down knowing of yourself.”

Her activism has a personal dimension, too. Songs like “Blended Family” reflect her role as stepmother to her husband Swizz Beatz’s children, offering a rare, empathetic portrayal of modern family life.

Redefining Beauty on Her Own Terms

In 2016, Keys made headlines by stepping away from makeup for public appearances, a decision she described as a rebellion against societal expectations. “It’s not about makeup or no makeup,” she explained to InStyle. “It’s about how you want to express yourself, and what boundaries you want to set for yourself.”

This philosophy inspired Keys Soulcare, her skincare and lifestyle brand launched in 2020. The line promotes rituals of self-care, pairing clean beauty products with affirmations printed on each package. “Soulcare and beauty are connected,” she told Forbes. “When you are true to yourself, your authentic voice pours out.”

Balancing Roles, Finding Peace

These days, Keys moves fluidly between her roles as artist, businesswoman, and mother, weaving them together into a life that feels entirely her own. She and Swizz Beatz, whom she married in 2010, are raising two sons, Egypt and Genesis. She encourages them to listen to their own voices—advice that took her years to embrace herself.

“I used to ask 75 people for validation before deciding what I wanted,” she admitted. “Now, I’m learning to be comfortable with my own opinion.”

She credits meditation and intentional stillness for helping her stay grounded. “It’s noisy as hell out there,” she says. “Ritual creates space so you can hear yourself.”

Living Well, Alicia Keys Style

When asked what’s next, Keys doesn’t rattle off career milestones. Instead, she talks about cultivating space— being “just as productive by not moving as much.” It’s a lesson in living well that she’s earned through years of both triumph and self-interrogation.

“I want to be comfortable with the non-work, the non-movement,” she reflects. “Sometimes I’m killing it, sometimes I fall off. And that’s okay. It’s about giving myself grace.”

From a young pianist in Hell’s Kitchen to a global icon rewriting the rules of beauty, artistry, and activism, Alicia Keys has built a life that harmonizes ambition with authenticity. Her journey is a reminder that true success isn’t just measured in awards or accolades—it’s in the ability to live fully, love deeply, and stay true to yourself, no matter how loud the world gets.

In other words, Alicia Keys is still—and always will be—a girl on fire.

Stephen P. Courtney, MD

Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

Over 28 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.

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“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!”

Expert Orthopedic Surgeons Close to Home

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John S. Early, MD

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William F. Tucker, Jr., MD

Duncan L. McKellar, Jr., MD

J. Conner Ryan, MD

Brian I. Nwannunu, MD

Florian F. Dibra, MD

Charles E. Toulson, MD

Cyrus E. Abbaschian, MD

Donald W. Hohman, MD

J. Stephen Appleton, MD

Alexander S. Greenstein, MD

Kwame A. Ennin, MD

Samuel K. Stephenson, MD

Raj Yalamanchili, MD

Emmanuel D. Eisenstein, MD

Providing modern, minimally invasive procedures to patients with neurological conditions

Dallas Brain, Spine and Skull Base Surgery is a neurosurgical practice that offers over 40 years of experience providing an innovative and collaborative state of the art approach to the care of patients with challenging neurological problems from around the world. Dr. Beshay and Dr. Coimbra have developed unique expertise in the treatment of brain tumors becoming the referral destination for the treatment of patients, especially those with complex or difficult to access tumors. They have also shown a commitment to the development of minimally invasive neurosurgical procedures including the most modern expanded trans–nasal endoscopic skull base surgical techniques and focused extradural approaches to skull base tumors.

Dr. Beshay’s interests include tumors of the brain and spine, minimally invasive spine surgery, complex spinal reconstruction, and epilepsy surgery. In addition to surgical treatment of intracranial and spinal disease, he has an interest in neurological bleeding and its reversal. Dr. Beshay’s clinical interests include: benign and malignant brain tumors, neuroendoscopy, epilepsy surgery, intracranial hemorrhage, cranial/ spinal trauma, minimally invasive spine surgery, complex spinal reconstruction with an interest in C1–C2 and occipito–cervical junction disease.

Dr. Coimbra restricts his practice mostly to intracranial neurosurgery. This selective tertiary practice has fostered the opportunity to develop unique expertise and commitment to the treatment of malignant and benign brain tumors. He is an expert in the minimally invasive resection of the most complex skull base tumors, including meningiomas, acoustic neuromas, and pituitary tumors. He employs CyberKnife radiation therapy, endoscopic endonasal techniques, and an array of focused skull base approaches to create a customized treatment plan for each patient in his practice. These innovative approaches allow resection of deep, difficult, and complex tumors with minimal brain tissue manipulation and maximal preservation of function.

Dr. Coimbra and Dr. Beshay believe in customized patient care and a team approach to medicine with attention to careful selection of the least invasive and most effective treatment for each patient. Their commitment to this philosophy has resulted in maximum preservation of function, less discomfort, shorter hospital stays and durable favorable outcomes for their patients.

Left to Right Caetano J. Coimbra, MD; Joseph Beshay, MD

JOSH CREEL, DC

Josh Creel, DC is a chiropractor with Airrosti, a healthcare group that specializes in rapid recovery for soft tissue injuries by utilizing manual therapy—a hands-on treatment used to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and promote overall physical well-being. In nearly all cases, this allows for rapid recovery, complete injury resolution, and lasting results. In-clinic patients should expect to see dramatic improvement after the first visit, and most patients experience complete injury resolution in as few as three visits (based on in-clinic and Remote Recovery patientreported outcomes).

Dr. Creel has been serving the McKinney/Prosper area for 10 years and provides patients with an individualized treatment plan, and uses a variety of techniques, including joint mobilization, soft tissue manipulation, and muscle energy techniques to address specific musculoskeletal issues and promote recovery.

Dr. Creel graduated with honors from Mississippi State University. Soon after, he received his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Parker University in Dallas, Texas. In Dr. Creel’s free time, he enjoys all types of fitness activities and spending time with his wife and three children. Dr. Creel is an active member of Lighthouse Church in Prosper, TX.

The Dopamine Menu

A Delicious Way to Boost Your Mood and Motivation

By ABIGAIL SHAW

I’ve had those days—the ones where I stare at my to-do list like it’s written in a foreign language. The coffee isn’t kicking in. The house is quiet, but my brain feels anything but calm. I want to get things done, but the motivation just isn’t there. And when I finally do something, even that feels like too much. Sound familiar?

A while ago, I stumbled across the concept of a “dopamine menu.”

The idea made sense immediately. It’s basically a curated list of things that bring you joy, calm, or energy—small actions that help nudge your brain into doing the next thing. I liked the metaphor: a menu for your mood, your energy, your motivation. A little emotional room service.

So, I made one.

Not on a fancy app or color-coded spreadsheet. Just a page in my journal, scribbled during one of those afternoons where I felt low-key stuck. I grouped the things I love into rough categories—quick things, bigger things, and a few guilty pleasures that I decided to stop feeling guilty about. And here’s what happened: It worked.

I didn’t become wildly productive or start waking up with superhero energy. But on days when I felt that heavy sense of “blah,” I didn’t have to think so hard. I’d glance at my list and pick something that felt doable. And slowly—ten minutes at a time—my energy returned. Not always fast, but reliably. Here’s what I’ve learned since creating that first dopamine menu, and why I think it’s worth making one for yourself.

Why a Dopamine Menu Works

Dopamine is often called the brain’s “reward” chemical, but it’s more nuanced than that. It helps regulate things like motivation, attention, and movement. When you anticipate or experience something pleasant—hearing a favorite song, seeing a loved one’s face, even finishing a puzzle—your brain releases dopamine as a kind of “Yes, more of that, please.”

It turns out, many of the things we have to do every day (answering emails, folding laundry, paying bills) don’t generate much dopamine at all. And when we’re tired or stressed or mentally foggy, our brains need even more coaxing to get into gear.

The beauty of a dopamine menu is that it gives you a small hit of pleasure or satisfaction first—or lets you pair it with something more mundane. It’s like warming up your brain before a workout.

How I Built Mine

My first version had four sections: Quick Hits, Every Day Joys, Paired Pleasures, and Treats. That’s what worked for me. You can call your categories whatever you want.

My Quick Hits list includes things like:

• Stepping outside barefoot for a few deep breaths

• Putting on a song that makes me nostalgic

• Sending a funny meme to a friend

They’re easy, almost effort-free, and they remind me what feeling good feels like.

Every Day Joys are the things I love but sometimes forget about:

• Watering my plants and checking on their new growth

• Journaling for ten minutes with no filter

• Making a fancy version of my afternoon tea (complete with lemon or honey or a cute cup)

Paired Pleasures are things I use to make boring tasks less boring:

• Listening to a podcast while folding towels

• Burning a favorite candle while answering emails

• Watching the birds out the window while doing leg stretches

Treats are exactly what they sound like. A square of dark chocolate. Rewatching a favorite movie scene. A long bath with good music. Things I used to label as “unproductive,” but now see as valuable tools. Once I had it all down, I taped it to the inside of my planner. It’s not always beautiful, but it’s mine—and when I need it, I don’t have to overthink. I just pick something.

It’s Not Just for Lazy Days

Some days, I’m already in a groove. I don’t need a dopamine jumpstart. But the menu still helps me maintain balance. I’ll choose something from it when I feel my mood dipping, when I hit a wall mid-afternoon, or even as a way to reward myself for finishing a tough project. What surprised me most is how this approach softened the way I talk to myself. Instead of “What is wrong with me?” I ask, “What would help right now?” That shift alone is worth a lot. And it’s flexible. As the seasons change, so does my list. In the fall, I add things like baking or switching out the porch cushions. In summer, I might put “early morning walk before it gets hot” or “ice water in a pretty glass.”

This Is Not About Toxic Positivity

Let me be clear: a dopamine menu isn’t a magic cure. If you’re dealing with grief, burnout, depression, or deep fatigue, no list will fix that. And there are days when the best I can do is one small thing—and

that’s okay. This tool isn’t about being endlessly happy or squeezing productivity out of every moment. It’s about offering your brain a lifeline when it feels stuck. It’s permission to say, “I can’t do everything, but I can do something.” It’s a nudge toward the light.

Where to Start

Don’t overthink it. Grab a piece of paper, and write down 10 things that make you feel:

• Peaceful

• Energized

• Cheerful

• Clear-headed

• Capable

Then sort them into categories that feel right to you. Make a pretty version if that’s your style, or keep it scrappy and real. Post it somewhere you’ll see it. You don’t have to use it every day. You don’t have to “earn” the items on it. Just give yourself the option. That alone helps rewire the belief that you’re stuck. And if it starts feeling stale? Rewrite it. Refresh it every month. I often do a new version when I notice I’m stuck in a scrollandsnack spiral that isn’t really making me feel better.

A Dopamine Menu for Real Life

Here’s a peek at some of the items that have lived on mine lately, in case you want ideas:

• A walk to the end of the block with my camera, just to see what’s blooming

• Three yoga poses I know by heart

• Sending an old photo to a sibling

• Coloring in a tiny corner of an adult coloring book

• Reading a few pages of a favorite memoir

• Lighting a lemon candle while working

• Watering the plants with music playing

• Dancing around the kitchen (no witnesses allowed)

Some days, I do one. Some days, I forget. But the menu is always there— waiting quietly, like a friendly nudge. Start small. Pick one thing. Let it shift the next few minutes. Sometimes, that’s all you need to begin again.

It’s basically a curated list of things that bring you joy, calm, or energy— small actions that help nudge your brain into doing the next thing.

KHALID YOUSUF, MD, MS

Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon | Hip & Knee Replacement Specialist

Dr. Yousuf is a nationally recognized leader in advanced hip and knee surgery, offering robotic-assisted procedures, partial knee replacements, and the anterior hip approach to help patients find relief from joint paint and move freely again.

He serves as Medical Director of Hip & Knee Surgery and Orthopedic Robotics at Baylor Scott & White (East Region) and has been honored among the Best Doctors in Dallas & Collin County. His dedication to innovation and patient care continues to set the standard in orthopedic excellence.

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Dear Olivia,

As a family, we believe it is time for hospice services, but there are many hospices to choose from! How do we start to decide which hospice is right for us?

~Overwhelmed with Options

Dear Overwhelmed with Options, Selecting the right hospice for your loved one is crucial, and you need to ensure that you choose a provider that aligns with your values and care goals. Ask the following important questions:

1. How often do staff members visit? You must ensure that nurses, chaplains, social workers, home health aides, and doctors are available to provide comprehensive support during and after business hours.

2. Do you offer all four levels of care? It’s essential that the hospice provides:

• Routine Care : The most common type of care, delivered in the patient’s home.

• Respit e Care : Temporary relief for caregivers, allowing them time to recharge.

• Continuous Care : A nurse on-site aroundthe-clock for managing difficult symptoms.

• General Inpatient Care : Higher-level support for severe symptoms when home care is insufficient.

3. Does your doctor make house calls? Confirm that the hospice offers home visits from doctors when necessary.

4. How can I assess your quality of care? Use Medicare.gov/care-compare to check the quality scores for Medicare-certified hospices.

These questions are vital in ensuring you choose the best hospice for your loved one. Don’t settle for anything less than the support and care your family deserves.

~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.

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Dr. Adams and his team are committed to preserving and improving the vision and overall quality of life for our patients by offering the most advanced and personalized retina care available.

Are All People With Blue Eyes Crazy?

What determines your eye color and what it says about you.

By MATTHEW K. ADAMS, MD, MBA

They say your eyes are the windows to your soul. While that sounds poetic, as an ophthalmologist, I’ll tell you they’re actually windows to your genetics—and occasionally to your health. Let’s talk about what really determines eye color, whether that hazel sparkle says anything about your personality, how your iris shade might influence your risk for certain medical conditions, and whether you can, or should, change it.

What Determines Eye Color?

Eye color is primarily determined by genetics, specifically the amount and distribution of melanin (pigment) in your iris. Think of melanin as nature’s paint. A lot of melanin gives you brown eyes; very little results in blue eyes; somewhere in the middle yields green, hazel, or gray. Multiple genes (at least 16 we know of) influence eye color, but the two main players—OCA2 and HERC2—are the main contributors.

And yes, your parents’ eye colors can influence yours, but it’s not as simple as “Mom’s eyes + Dad’s eyes = Yours.” While brown is generally dominant over blue and green, and green often trumps blue, eye color inheritance is a mix of dominant and recessive genes from both parents (and sometimes grandparents). That’s why two brown-eyed parents can have a blue-eyed child, or two blue-eyed parents can almost never have a brown-eyed child, unless there’s a rare genetic twist in the family tree.

Is Personality Reflected in Your Eye Color?

This is where science and folklore part ways. For centuries, people have claimed that blue-eyed folks are more “dreamy,” brown-eyed people are “trustworthy,” and green-eyed individuals have a “mischievous” streak. Fun to imagine, yes. Scientifically proven? Not so much.

Eye color comes down to biology, not behavioral wiring. Your iris shade doesn’t dictate whether you’re bold or shy—it’s your environment, upbringing, and life experiences that shape personality.

Does Eye Color Predispose You to Illnesses or Diseases?

Here’s where things get interesting—and a little serious. While personality isn’t determined by your eye color, some health risks are.

• Lighter eyes (blue, gray, green) have less melanin, which means less natural protection from UV light. This increases the risk for conditions like macular degeneration and ocular melanoma. If you have light-colored eyes, sunglasses aren’t optional—they’re a survival tool for your retinas.

• Darker eyes (brown) have more melanin, which

offers better UV protection. However, some studies suggest that people with darker irises may have a slightly higher risk for certain types of cataracts.

• Eye color can also be linked to rare genetic conditions, such as albinism, but for the vast majority of us, it’s just a pigment variation, not a red flag for disease.

Can You Change Your Eye Color?

Yes, sort of, but not without some caveats.

• Temporary changes: Colored contact lenses can give you an instant transformation from brown to blue or green to violet. Safe when fitted and prescribed by an eye care professional, dangerous when purchased from questionable online shops.

• Surgical options: A few experimental procedures claim to permanently change eye color, usually by implanting an artificial iris or using lasers to strip pigment. These carry serious risks, including glaucoma, inflammation, and permanent vision loss. Most Ophthalmologists (myself included) strongly advise against them.

• Natural changes: Your eye color can shift subtly over time due to aging, injury, certain medications, or medical conditions affecting the iris.

The safest “eye color change” is lighting, makeup, or wardrobe choices that make your natural eye color pop, without risking your vision.

The Takeaway

Your eye color is the product of complex genetic interactions and pigment chemistry, not a mystical personality decoder ring. While certain iris shades come with unique considerations for UV protection or disease risk, the best defense for any eye color is proactive eye care.

• Wearing sunglasses with 100% UVA/UVB protection

• Eating a diet rich in leafy greens, omega-3s, and antioxidants

• Keeping systemic health (blood pressure, blood sugar) in check

• Getting a routine eye exam every year, even if your vision seems perfect

Think of it this way: your eye color is beautiful and unique, but it’s also just one small feature in an incredibly complex visual system. Protect it well, and those windows to your soul, whatever their color, will keep showing you the world in high definition for years to come.

1. Rarest Eye Color?

Green eyes are the unicorns of the iris world—only about 2% of people have them.

2. Two-Tone Eyes Exist

Called heterochromia, it can be complete (two different eyes) or sectoral (one eye with two colors). Causes range from genetics to injury.

3. Eye Color Can “Bloom” in Babies

Many newborns have blue-gray eyes that darken over their first year as melanin develops.

4. Hazel Eyes = Light Show

Hazel eyes aren’t just brown or green—they shift color in different lighting due to scattered light and varying pigment.

5. Red Eyes Aren’t Just in Vampires

In rare cases of albinism, very little pigment makes blood vessels in the retina visible, giving eyes a reddish or pink hue.

6. Amber Eyes Are Not “Light Brown”

True amber eyes have a golden or coppery tone caused by a pigment called lipochrome.

7. Not All Blue Eyes Are the Same Blue

The shade depends on how the iris scatters light—just like the sky.

8. Eye Color and Night Vision

Darker eyes have a slight edge in bright sunlight; lighter eyes may be more sensitive in low light.

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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

Seeds of Change

The Promise and Perils of GMOs

By GEORGE YULANI

When it comes to food, there are few topics that gen erate as much curiosity as GMOs. Some call GMOs the future of farming, while others worry about what they mean for our health and the environment. With so many voices in the conversation, it can be hard to separate fact from fear.

This article takes a straightforward look at the pros and cons of GMOs, drawing from current evidence and research. It isn’t about persuading you one way or the other—it’s about giving you the tools to understand what GMOs are, why they exist, and what scientists are learning about their impact.

Let’s start with a little history: the buzz around “GMOs” began as much with curiosity as controversy. GMOs—genetically modified organisms—are simply plants whose DNA has been adjusted in a lab to give them helpful traits like pest resistance, improved nutrition, or longer shelf life. The idea of GMOs can sound futuristic, but in reality it’s just a more precise version of plant breeding that’s been happening for centuries. As  Time Magazine explains, selective breeding laid the groundwork for modern gene editing.

So what’s the upside? Many GMO crops, like corn or soy, are engineered to resist insects or tolerate herbicides. That means farmers can cut pesticide use, and environmental studies suggest overall chemical applications drop significantly. In fact, a meta-analysis of 147 studies found that adoption of GMO technology reduced pesticide use by about 37 percent. At the same time, crop yields increased roughly 22 percent. That suggests farmers—and consumers—could benefit from more food with fewer chemical interventions.

GMOs can also be tailored for nutrition. Take Golden Rice: it’s enriched with beta-carotene, a vitamin A precursor, to help prevent childhood blindness in regions where diets are deficient in this nutrient. This isn’t hypothetical—in places where vitamin A deficiency is common, Golden Rice can deliver meaningful nutritional support.

But GMOs aren’t without their critics. Concerns include the potential for allergens when genes from known allergens are introduced into new plant varieties. For example, an experimental GMO soybean that included a Brazil-nut protein triggered allergic responses, leading researchers to halt that effort. So while no current approved GMO foods have caused allergic reactions, the potential is taken seriously—and safety assessments are part of the approval process. Likewise, environmental concerns like “superweeds”—plants that evolve resistance after repeated herbicide use—signal that GMO success can ripple beyond the farm.

What about safety for everyday eating? Here’s where scientists and regulators mostly agree: available GMO foods have passed rigorous safety assessments, and there is no evidence linking them to health problems like cancer, allergies, or organ damage. The World Health

Organization affirms that no proven risks have emerged, though each GMO product is evaluated individually. Still, public skepticism lingers. A 2020 poll reported by  Time Magazine found that only 27 percent of Americans consider GMOs safe to eat—a perception gap that shows how trust is hard to win, even when science leans toward reassurance.

Globally, GMO adoption varies—most U.S. soy, corn, and cotton crops are GMO, but that’s not the case everywhere. In Europe, regulations are stricter, and consumer attitudes tend to be more cautious. Part of the debate revolves around transparency and labeling, yet research suggests health risks remain negligible—a sentiment echoed in a 2016 National Academies report that didn’t find additional hazards from GMO compared to conventional crops.

Talk of GMOs also loops into bigger conversations about sustainability. Genetic engineering can help crops thrive in drought, heat, or poor soil, which is especially relevant in a changing climate. Plus, engineering faster-growing species—like some types of GMO salmon— could eventually help feed more people using fewer natural resources.

At the end of the day, GMOs are not evil—and they’re not miracle cures. They’re tools, and like any tool, their value depends on how we use them. If they help reduce chemical exposures, improve nutrition, and boost harvests in challenging conditions, that’s a win. But careful regulation, ongoing research, and open labeling remain important.

Here’s something to keep in mind: if you’re walking through your grocery store, very few items will wear a “GMO” sign. Often, genetically engineered corn, soy, or canola are hidden inside familiar foods—think cooking oils, cereal ingredients, and snacks. If you’re choosing organic or non-GMO-labeled products, you’ll likely avoid most of it.

So what should a thoughtful shopper do? Start with curiosity, not fear. Learn what ingredients go into your food, ask questions, and trust trusted sources—like the WHO or national science bodies—that assess each GMO with care.

In plain terms: GMOs are tools that can do good—but only if wielded wisely, transparently, and thoughtfully. And for your family’s table, the most important step is informed choices, not blind acceptance or rejection.

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.

Tonsil Stones

What They Are and How to Manage Them

By GEORGE YULANI

If you’ve ever noticed a strange sensation in your throat, a persistent cough, or an unexpected bout of bad breath, you might be dealing with tonsil stones. These small, often overlooked formations can cause discomfort and raise questions about their origin and how to handle them.

Understanding Tonsil Stones

Tonsil stones, medically known as tonsilloliths, are calcified deposits that form in the crevices of your tonsils. They consist of food particles, dead cells, bacteria, and other debris that become trapped in the tonsillar crypts. Over time, these materials harden into small, often white or yellowish lumps. While they are generally harmless, they can lead to unpleasant symptoms.

Common Symptoms

Many individuals with tonsil stones experience minimal or no symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they may include:

• Persistent bad breath (halitosis)

• A sensation of something being stuck in the throat

• Sore throat or discomfort when swallowing

• Coughing

• Earache

In some cases, visible white or yellowish lumps may be seen on the tonsils. It’s important to note that these symptoms can overlap with other conditions, so it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

Prevalence and Risk Factors

Tonsil stones are relatively common, affecting up to 10% of the population. They are more frequently observed in adults, especially those who have experienced recurrent throat infections. Factors that may increase the likelihood of developing tonsil stones include:

• Deep tonsillar crypts

• Poor oral hygiene

• Chronic inflammation of the tonsils

• Smoking Maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, can help reduce the risk of developing tonsil stones.

Treatment Options

In many cases, tonsil stones can be managed at home. Here are some methods that may help:

• Saltwater Gargles: Gargling with warm saltwater can help dislodge smaller stones and alleviate discomfort.

• Oral Irrigation: Using a water flosser on a low setting can gently flush out debris from the tonsils.

• Manual Removal: With clean hands or a cotton swab, some individuals can gently remove visible stones. However, this should be done cautiously to avoid injury.

• Antiseptic Mouthwash: Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria and prevent new stones from forming.

If these home remedies don’t provide relief or if tonsil stones become a recurring issue, it’s advisable to consult an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. In some cases, medical procedures may be necessary to remove the stones or address underlying causes.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While tonsil stones are typically benign, certain signs may indicate the need for professional evaluation:

• Persistent or worsening symptoms

• Difficulty swallowing or breathing

• Frequent throat infections

• Swelling or bleeding of the tonsils

An ENT specialist can perform a thorough examination and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include surgical removal of the tonsils in severe or recurrent cases.

Preventive

Measures

To minimize the risk of developing tonsil stones, consider the following preventive measures:

• Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly.

• Stay hydrated to promote healthy saliva flow.

• Avoid smoking and other irritants that can contribute to throat inflammation.

• Gargle with saltwater periodically to keep the tonsils clean.

Understanding tonsil stones and their management can help alleviate discomfort and prevent complications. If you suspect you have tonsil stones or experience related symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.

At KoonsFuller, we only practice family law. Which means we’re fully dedicated to serving Dallas area families and their unique legal needs. From informal negotiations to mediations, collaborative law to court proceedings, our thirty plus attorneys across four offices provide an unmatched network of expertise. Working together as a fully integrated team, KoonsFuller’s attorneys are equipped to handle estates of all sizes, cases of all complexities, and custody issues of any kind.

See what KoonsFuller can do for your family.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.

McKinney Ave.

1500

TX 75202 (214) 871-2727 (Principal Office)

BONNY HAYNES

Texas Back Institute

Texas Back Institute (TBI) has served the North Texas area in spine care for over 45 years. An uncompromising desire to put patients first and provide individualized spine care has helped change the treatment options available to patients for neck and back pain.

Today, TBI is a leader in artificial disc replacement, minimally invasive spine surgery, complex revision surgery, and treatment of spinal deformity. TBI has trained hundreds of surgeons, scientists, and allied health professionals now practicing worldwide. Its research institute employs state-of-the-art technology and is actively involved in many clinical trials, including artificial disc replacement, minimally invasive technologies, and robotic spine surgery. Texas Back Institute has remained one of the most academic practices in spine care. It is one of the largest multidisciplinary spine centers in the world, providing comprehensive care for neck and back pain. With a fully dedicated staff of board-certified orthopedic spine surgeons, neurosurgeons, physiatrists, and physical therapists, the TBI team works together to support its mission of helping patients get back to life. The 26 physicians at Texas Back Institute are leaders in the surgical

and nonsurgical treatment options for back and neck pain, from the most common outpatient procedures to the most complex cases. Thanks to the unmatched expertise of the medical staff, the advanced diagnostic testing, and an unparalleled commitment to patient care, the Texas Back Institute physicians can identify the potential cause of your pain and create a treatment plan specific to your needs.

Texas Back Institute has developed several spine specialty programs. These include the Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Center, Center for Disc Replacement, Scoliosis and Spine Tumor Center, and Complex Back Surgery Center. These programs give patients access to highly-trained care teams who focus specifically on these areas of spine care, allowing patients in the North Texas area access to treatment options for their individual problems from physicians with extensive experience in these areas.

“At Texas Back Institute, finding the right solution for each patient and offering the least invasive treatment is core to our belief and the foundation for all treatment plans.” Dr. Michael Duffy.

ALLIANCE

3025 N. Tarrant Pkwy., Ste. 220 Fort Worth (Alliance), TX 76177

ARGYLE

310 FM 407E, Ste. 100 Argyle, TX 76226

DALLAS

12222 N. Central Expy. Pavilion II, Ste. 310 Dallas, TX 75243

DENTON

3537 S. Interstate 35, Ste. 308 Denton, TX 76210

FLOWER MOUND

4370 Medical Arts Dr. River Walk Bldg. III, Ste. 230 Flower Mound, TX 75028

FORT WORTH

1650 W. Rosedale St. Ste. 301 Fort Worth, TX 76104

FRISCO

5575 Frisco Square Blvd. Ste. 400 Frisco, TX 75034

LEWISVILLE

500 W. Main St., Ste. 380 Lewisville, TX 75057

MCKINNEY

4510 Medical Center Dr., Ste. 106 McKinney, TX 75069

NORTH RICHLAND HILLS

4351 Booth Calloway Dr., Ste. 404 Fort Worth, TX 76180

CENTRAL PLANO

4001 W. 15th St. Ste. 455 Medical Office Bldg. III Plano, TX 75093

PLANO

6020 W. Parker Rd. Ste. 200 Plano, TX 75093

ROCKWALL

3164 Horizon Rd. Ste. 100 Rockwall, TX 75032

SASCHE

4650 President George Bush Turnpike, Ste. 100 Sachse, TX 75048

TOP ROW:

Sheena Bhuva, MD; Michael Duffy, MD; Peter Derman, MD; Brian Braaksma, MD; Shashank Gandhi, MD; Stephen Tolhurst, MD; Blake Staub, MD; Alexander Satin, MD; Chun Lin, MD; Kevin Ju, MD; Akwasi Boah, MD; Junyoung “Jon” Ahn, MD

BOTTOM ROW:

Adewale Adeniran, MD; Thomas Kosztowski, MD; Rey Bosita, MD, MBA; Rajesh Arakal, MD; Jessica Shellock, MD; Isador Lieberman, MD, MBA, FRCSC; Richard Guyer, MD; Jack Zigler, MD, FACS; Scott Blumenthal, MD; Theodore Belanger, MD; Nayan Patel, MD; Craig Lankford, MD; Michael Hisey, MD; Uche Davidson, MD

Why Am I Burping?

By WILLIAM PARKER

Studies show that consciously retraining the habits around air intake can sharply reduce the frequency of belching.

On more than one occasion, I have found myself excusing a sudden, unexpected belch—with more embarrassment than alarm. They can come from seemingly nowhere, right in the middle of a conversation. If you’ve experienced similar moments—or bloating, discomfort, or that mysterious feeling of air needing to escape—know that you’re far from alone. Belching is simply your body’s way of releasing trapped air in the upper digestive tract, but when it becomes frequent or disruptive, it may point to underlying habits or health concerns.

I’ve learned from medical professionals and trusted resources like the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) that most people burp up to thirty times a day—anything more can feel distressing or socially awkward. Often, those extra belches are linked to swallowed air, which commonly happens when eating too fast, talking while chewing, sipping through a straw, chewing gum, or even when stress encourages rapid breathing or gulping. These are all habits that invite too much air into the stomach.

Chronic belching may also be connected to acid reflux—or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)—where stomach acid escapes back into the esophagus because the lower esophageal sphincter relaxes too often. Medical News Today reports that GERD affects about one in five adults, and reflux can trigger more burping as the body tries to force air upward to relieve the discomfort.

Another pattern sometimes overlooked is supragastric belching—a learned behavior where someone frequently draws air into the esophagus and immediately expels it, without letting it reach the stomach. According to UCLA Health, this type of belching often accompanies stress or habit, and speech therapy with behavioral retraining can offer substantial relief.

Gastritis—sometimes due to an H. pylori infection— can inflame the stomach lining and lead to increased belching, especially when digestion slows or becomes uncomfortable. Stomach inflammation frequently triggers gas release as your body reacts to irritation.

When belching becomes frequent, noticeable, or is paired with symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, nausea, chest tightness, or bloating, it’s time to dig deeper. I recommend starting with your primary care physician— they can evaluate your symptoms and, if needed, refer you for an endoscopy or acid monitoring to pinpoint the cause.

If GERD is suspected, a gastroenterologist is the right specialist. Together with lifestyle guidance—like weight management, avoiding caffeine, spicy or fatty foods, not lying down after meals, and modifying medication—doctors can often help restore comfort. Many patients experience lasting improvement when dietary and behavioral changes combine with therapies such as antacids, H2 blockers, or proton-pump inhibitors, as described in resources like Verywell Health.

In cases involving supragastric belching or aerophagia, many people benefit from working with a speech-language pathologist or a behavioral therapist. Studies show that consciously retraining the habits around air intake can sharply reduce the frequency of belching.

Initially, I thought burping was just a minor annoyance. Until a gastroenterologist friend reframed it for me: “It becomes a problem when belching becomes your body’s default response to stress or discomfort, instead of a reaction to fullness.” That shifted everything.

I started making incremental changes—slowing down at meals, favoring water over soda or coffee, giving up gum and mints—and I noticed a significant decline in belching. I slept better, digestion felt lighter. When I felt bloated at night, I would lie on my side or pull my knees in toward my chest until relief came. Mount Sinai recommends such positions for easing trapped gas.

At the end of the day, burping is usually normal—but if belching seems to be increasing—or feels more than just quirky—don’t let embarrassment keep you from seeking answers. Reach out to your physician. Consider asking for a gastroenterology consultation. You don’t have to navigate it on your own; expert support is available, and you deserve relief and the comfort of meals you can enjoy without worry.

Burping doesn’t have to be a source of shame; it can be a source of insight—a message your body sends when something feels off. Whether it’s placing pause on meals, tweaking habits, or reaching out for medical help, there's nothing wrong with honoring that signal.

So when the question echoes within—“Why am I burping?”—let it become an invitation to listen, not panic. Notice the patterns. Make a shift. Seek support. It’s perfectly fine to ask for answers—or to take one small step forward to feel more at ease again. And that’s an answer worth exploring.

VUDHI SLABISAK, MD OrthopaedicSpineSurgeon

BRUCE MARKMAN, MD

OrthopaedicSurgeon&Sports MedicineSpecialist

JAMES STANLEY, MD OrthopaedicSpineSurgeon

STEVE HONG, MD Interventional Pain ManagementSpecialist

AMIR MALIK, MD Neurosurgeon

KHAWAJA IKRAM, DO OrthopaedicSurgeon

RAHUL BANERJEE, MD OrthopaedicSurgeon

BRIANA HODGSON, PA-C

OrthopaedicSurgery PhysicianAssistant

If you’re suffering from pain or an athletic injury, schedule an appointment with your preferred NTOS location for effective, compassionate treatment.

Carly, Colon Cancer Survivor

Life After the Bell

By CHRISTOPHER EVANS

There’s a moment many patients look forward to during treatment—the ringing of the bell. It signals the end of chemotherapy or radiation, and the beginning of something new. Friends cheer, nurses smile, and photos are taken to mark the victory. But what happens after the bell? What does life look like when the appointments slow down, the medications taper off, and the rhythm of survival gives way to silence?

For many, the end of treatment isn’t as neat as it sounds. It is both a milestone and a mystery. Survivors step into a chapter with no map, no clear timeline, and often, no one checking in daily. The support that once felt constant may fade as routines return to “normal.”

But what is normal, really? The truth is, life after cancer isn’t a return to what was. It’s the beginning of something entirely different. The American Cancer Society acknowledges that survivors can face lingering physical and emotional side effects that may not go away just because treatment has ended. Fatigue, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and fear of recurrence are all common experiences. According to the National Cancer Institute, nearly 60 percent of survivors report experiencing anxiety and uncertainty in the months following their final treatment.

This new normal can feel like walking a tightrope between relief and vulnerability. On one hand, you’re thankful. On the other, you might feel a bit lost. You’re supposed to feel triumphant, and you do— but not all the time. Sometimes you feel guilty for not feeling more grateful. Sometimes you wonder why it still hurts when the hardest part is supposedly over.

I spoke with a woman recently who described it best: “I rang the bell and went home. I stood in my kitchen and thought, now what? I didn’t recognize my body or my emotions. I wasn’t the person I used to be, but I wasn’t sure who I was becoming either.”

That identity shift is very real. It’s a rebirth in a way. And just like anything newly born, it takes time to grow into the world. For some, life after treatment is a season of reflection. For others, it’s a slow journey of rebuilding—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

This is where faith can be a lifeline. Not necessarily the loud, bold kind of faith that demands certainty, but the quieter kind that whispers in the dark, “You’re not alone.” The kind of faith that doesn’t need all the answers to feel at peace. In the Bible, we see countless examples of people navigating the in-between: the wilderness before the Promised Land, the waiting between Good Friday and Easter morning.

Continued on page 38

The truth is, life after cancer isn’t a return to what was. It’s the beginning of something entirely different.

These stories remind us that uncertainty is not the absence of God— it’s often the space where grace takes root.

One of the hardest parts of this new chapter is learning how to trust your body again. During treatment, every ache had a meaning, every symptom needed a response. After treatment, the vigilance doesn’t just disappear. You may still scan for signs, wondering if something is coming back. You may hesitate before planning too far into the future. And that’s okay. It takes time to reestablish a sense of safety.

Mental health professionals often refer to this phase as “post-treatment transition.” According to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, this stage is commonly marked by an emotional dip. During treatment, people often feel they have a clear purpose and a team of professionals rallying around them. Afterward, they may feel like that structure has vanished, leaving them to rebuild it on their own.

This is why connection is so important. Talking to others who have walked the same road can offer immense comfort. Whether it’s a formal support group, a casual coffee with a friend, or a shared moment at church, human connection grounds us. It reminds us that we don’t have to figure this out alone.

Spiritual practices can also bring rhythm to this new reality. Whether it’s daily prayer, journaling, or simply taking a quiet walk to reflect, these practices help tether us to something steady. For some, returning to church or exploring Scripture becomes a way to make sense of the journey. For others, listening to worship music or writing gratitude notes is a way of connecting to peace. There’s no right or wrong here—just whatever brings light into the room.

It’s important to acknowledge the grief that comes with survivorship. You may grieve the loss of who you were before the illness. You may grieve the time, energy, or relationships that changed along the way. That grief is valid. Naming it doesn’t mean you’re ungrateful—it means you’re human.

One helpful perspective I’ve heard is to approach this time like recovery from a long journey. You wouldn’t run a marathon and then expect yourself to hop on a bike the next day. You would rest. You would hydrate. You would slowly return to your routines, honoring your body’s limits. The same grace should apply now. Give yourself permission to heal beyond the hospital. Healing is not linear. It’s layered, unpredictable, and deeply personal.

You might also find that your values shift. Things that once seemed urgent may now feel less import-

ant. You may crave deeper connections, quieter days, or more meaningful work. You may start to ask bigger questions, or seek more intentional ways to spend your time. These shifts are not something to fear. They’re part of the transformation. They’re signs of life taking root in a new way.

If you are in this season now, I want you to know this: you are still healing, and healing deserves as much tenderness as treatment did. The world may expect you to move on, to bounce back, to act like everything is okay. But it’s okay if you’re not there yet. It’s okay if you never return to “before.”

Because life after the bell is not about going back. It’s about learning how to go forward. With a new sense of self. With a heart that knows how to hold sorrow and joy at the same time. With a spirit that still believes, even in the quiet.

Let this chapter be slow. Let it be sacred. Let it be whatever you need it to be.

And if your faith feels shaky or your strength feels thin, remember: even mustard seed faith can move mountains. Even small steps count. Even silence can hold healing.

You rang the bell. And that was brave.

Now comes the rest of your story—and it matters just as much.

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 Allen and 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 also one of the few official Jiffy Knee™ surgeons in the North Texas area.

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.

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Your Ears Protect Your Brain

Courtesy HEARING SERVICES OF McKINNEY

Hearing is about so much more than catching the punchline in a conversation or hearing a favorite song clearly. The tiny structures inside your ears connect directly to the health of your brain, influencing how sharp you feel, how steady you walk, and even how connected you feel to the world around you.

Research is showing that untreated hearing loss doesn’t just make communication harder—it’s linked to faster cognitive decline, dementia, depression, and anxiety. In fact, a long-term Johns Hopkins study found that people with mild hearing loss had about twice the risk of developing dementia, moderate loss tripled the risk, and severe loss increased it fivefold. That’s not just a small correlation; it’s a clear signal that the brain and ears are working together in ways we can’t afford to ignore.

When hearing starts to fade, the brain has to work harder to fill in the blanks. This extra mental strain can leave fewer resources for memory and problem-solving. Over time, that constant effort can contribute to cognitive decline. It’s called the “cognitive load” effect, and it’s one of several ways hearing loss impacts brain health. Another is auditory deprivation—when the brain receives less sound input, it can lead to changes in brain structure, particularly in areas responsible for memory and language.

There’s also the human side. Struggling to hear often leads to pulling back from conversations, social gatherings, and community life. That isolation has its own risks. Studies have shown loneliness can raise the risk of dementia by about 40%. Add in the frustration of missed conversations, and it’s no surprise that untreated hearing loss is also associated with higher rates of depression and anxiety.

Here’s the encouraging news: treating hearing loss can help lower those risks. A major study published in The Lancet in 2023 found that older adults at high risk for dementia who used hearing aids, along with audiologist-guided support, slowed their rate of cognitive decline by nearly 50% over three years compared to a control group. Other large reviews of research have found that hearing-aid or

cochlear implant use can cut the long-term risk of cognitive decline by almost 20% while also improving day-to-day mental sharpness.

The benefits don’t stop at brain health. Wearing hearing aids can reduce the chances of developing depression or anxiety and even lower the risk of serious falls. That’s because your hearing plays a key role in spatial awareness—helping you know where you are in relation to your surroundings.

The decision to get your hearing checked isn’t just about improving how well you hear the TV or the phone. It’s about protecting your overall well-being. Early detection is especially important because hearing loss often develops gradually. Many people don’t realize how much they’ve adapted—turning up the volume, avoiding noisy places, leaning on lip reading—until the change in hearing is undeniable. By then, the brain may have already been compensating for years.

Modern hearing aids are far from the bulky, squealing devices of decades past. Today’s models are discreet, comfortable, and smart— able to filter background noise, stream calls and music, and adapt automatically to different environments. More importantly, they can restore the clear, effortless hearing that allows the brain to focus on what matters: understanding, remembering, and connecting.

If you’ve been noticing changes in your hearing—needing to ask people to repeat themselves, missing parts of conversations, or feeling exhausted after social interactions—it may be time to make an appointment with an audiologist and have your hearing tested. Even if you’re not sure there’s a problem, a professional evaluation from an audiologist can give you a clear picture of your hearing health and whether hearing aids could help.

The sooner hearing loss is addressed, the more you can protect not just your ability to hear, but also your cognitive health, mood, and quality of life. Your ears may be the entry point for sound, but they’re also guardians of your mind. Schedule your hearing check-up today with Hearing Services of McKinney and take the first step toward protecting both your hearing and your brain health.

The Importance of Ceremony

By RICK ALLEN

There are few things in life that will affect us like the death of someone to whom we are close. People will attempt to prepare themselves mentally for the time when that death will occur, but until the reality of loss hits, exactly how you will respond or what you will need to move through the grief you will experience is hard to anticipate.

In times past, funerals were traditional in nature and a set protocol was expected and followed. People traveled to attend ceremonies, time was taken off work and people stopped to honor the life that was lived and to offer support for the grieving family. As with everything in life, funerals, traditions, and schedules are different and the approach to how we as a community deal with death is different. For example, viewing of the body has become less common now compared to times past. Preferences for cremation has paralleled that of burial on a national average and with that trend, the type of ceremony has changed. While the “traditional” funeral may be less popular for a lot of people, the need to have a ceremony has not changed.

Some people attempt to deal with grief by ignoring it. While some things will go away on their own, grief is not one of those things. There are identifiable steps and a chartable cycle of grief we experience and failing to acknowledge each phase and reconcile it can lead to longterm problems. The best way to acknowledge and deal with grief is

to allow others to come around you to show their support. While this helps the one most impacted by loss, it also allows others who knew the person who died to be able to say their “good-bye” as well. This is often accomplished through ceremony.

Ceremonies should reflect the uniqueness and personality of the one being honored. Memorabilia displayed often helps people remember the good times shared with the one who has passed and allowing people to share those stories often lightens the burden of loss for everyone. Finally, after a ceremony of remembrance, establishing a permanent memorial to the one who is gone is also important. For those choosing burial, a marker on a grave is common. For cremation, a permanent memorial can be a bit more difficult if cremains are scattered, but burial or placement in a columbarium allows for marking the place of rest.

In summary, everyone is different and while the way we live will vary, the way we are remembered will also vary, but it should closely resemble the way we lived. If you have strong feelings about what your final tribute should look like, write down those wishes and make them known to the one who will be responsible for those arrangements. Even though none of us want to be a burden and it has often been said, “I don’t even want a funeral,” do not deny those who are left and grieving a chance to deal with that grief through ceremony.

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

A Place Once Set for Us

By JULIA PORTER

There was a time when the dinner table was the heart of our homes—a place where daily stories were shared, connections were reinforced, and support was offered effortlessly. Now, in many American families, that ritual has quietly faded away.

In those early years, our dinner table wasn’t about fancy meals or perfect etiquette. It was about presence. We’d trade off—one of us grabbing the ice for the glasses, another setting the table, someone always asking, “How much longer?” Mom would ask about my day, my dad shared stories, and my siblings and I, in turn, joined the conversation. Sometimes we laughed, sometimes we argued, but always, we processed the day together. Those conversations taught us to listen, to speak honestly, and to be seen in a family setting.

Today, so many of us move through evenings with individual routines: someone catches up on work, another scrolls their phone, after school events running long, and dinner becomes a solo or drive-thru affair. The family table becomes a catchall—unopened mail, lap-

That

regular

contact builds resilience, trust, and understanding over time.

tops, groceries—its original purpose buried beneath modern clutter. Meals are eaten on the go, conversations scattered, and the beautiful architecture of daily sharing often vanishes.

Growing up, I realized that simple mealtime dialogue matters. One nationally representative study of parents in the United States (Project EAT) found that families who eat together regularly report stronger emotional bonds and better awareness of what’s going on in each other’s lives. Teens, for example, who share meals with their parents are less likely to engage in risky behavior and more likely to feel heard and supported.

In my own household, that shift happened gradually. As schedules grew complicated, evenings turned into fragments. My daughter recalled glimpses of our table—occasional shared plates, curt greetings, and silent meals. The space lost its meaning, and so did we, just a little bit. It didn’t seem like a big deal. It became our new routine.

It was only when I paused to think about what was missing that I noticed. I missed hearing about her day. I longed to share stories of small wins or quiet frustrations. My husband sometimes drifted upstairs after eating his dinner, and I found myself lingering in the kitchen with mine—longing for connection.

Reclaiming that ritual didn’t require elaborate dinners—just intention. One evening, I invited everyone over for supper without expectation or agenda. No phones, no background noise. Conversation felt awkward at first. But slowly, the table began to hum again.

My daughter shared about projects at school. My husband talked about ups and downs at work. I shared bits of my world too. The shift wasn’t dramatic, but it was significant. We weren’t just eating; we were reconnecting.

Family therapists often describe mealtime as “talk therapy by stealth.” In that structured, predictable setting, children feel safe sharing fears and joys, and parents model emotional openness. That regular contact builds resilience, trust, and understanding over time.

We weren’t aiming for perfect meals—some nights were sandwiches, others were store-bought takeout, and occasionally cereal. What mattered was sitting down together, unplugged. “Dinner’s ready! I’d love to hear your day.” No corrections or life lessons—just conversation. Some moments were joyful, others awkward or thoughtful. The act itself created space to share, to question, to laugh, and occasionally to heal.

Not everyone has a formal dining room—and we didn’t always ei-

ther. At times, we gathered around the kitchen counter or nestled in folding chairs at a small table. What mattered was not the setting, but the consistency. Even twenty-minute meals offer emotional benefit, if the table holds presence.

I noticed how habits shifted over time. Our children grew older, some moved away, but I ensure the weekly table habit continues— sometimes for holiday dinners, sometimes even via video call. The ritual holds meaning, no matter the changes around us.

It’s not that family life becomes flawless. Conflicts still arise. Tiredness still sets in. But returning to the dinner table models a valuable lesson: showing up matters. When we eat together, listen without judgement, and honor presence, we teach emotional intelligence by example. Those subtle lessons resonate far longer than any lecture.

Our table also became a place of celebration—graduations, promotions, holidays, even Monday nights. The stories we exchange, repeat and pass on become part of our shared family memory—our emotional legacy.

I want to be clear: restoring the table won’t fix everything. It won’t soothe deep wounds overnight. But it revives opportunity. If the table is empty too often, it’s possible we’re losing more than meals—we’re losing shared experience, mutual understanding, and emotional intimacy.

When the table is cluttered or overlooked, maybe it’s time to reclaim it. Begin with a gentle invitation: “Can we all eat together tonight?” Even once a week sets rhythm. Escort meals with a question like: “What was today like?” or “What’s someone you’d like to thank this week?”

You don’t need perfect timing or fancy plates. You simply need presence and a genuine invitation to share—to speak and be heard. Over time I learned that our table symbolized more than food. It symbolized connection. Taking your seat—even when no one else does yet—is a way to bring possibility back into the room.

Families don’t unravel in crises—they drift apart amid the silences. The greatest courage can be found in bringing back shared conversation—one dinner, one story, one invitation at a time.

You simply need presence and a genuine invitation to share—to speak and be heard.

FLORIAN DIBRA, MD

Florian F. Dibra, MD is a board-certified, orthopedic surgeon located in Frisco, Texas who has extensive knowledge in hip and knee orthopedics and treats operative and non-operative hip and knee arthritis. He focuses on minimally invasive muscle-sparing total hip and knee replacement, anterior hip replacement, partial knee replacement, robotic joint replacement and complex hip and knee replacement revisions. Dr. Dibra is specialized in MagicKnee and MagicHip, muscle-sparing techniques with robotic technology.

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.

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