Denton County Living Well Magazine May/June 2024

JOSH LUCAS

Authentic & Versatile

HEALTH BENEFITS OF GROUNDING

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.

Living Well Living

WELLNESS AND SECURITY

Greetings to all our readers, and welcome to another insightful edition of LIVING WELL Magazine. Each issue we aim to bring you compelling content that supports your journey toward wellness, offering guidance on health, finance, legal matters, and more.

First up, we shine the spotlight on Josh Lucas, a familiar face with an unforgettable voice. Known for his roles across a spectrum of Hollywood films and as a narrator for iconic brands, Lucas’s contributions to entertainment are diverse. His dynamic upbringing and eclectic career have equipped him with a nuanced understanding of his craft. Currently captivating audiences in the Apple TV+ series Palm Royale, Lucas reflects on his acting journey and the serene life he leads off-camera in Ojai, California, on page 8.

Next up, we touch upon a serious issue. With digital advancement comes increased risk, particularly of identity theft. In 2023 alone, the FTC received over a million complaints, highlighting the pervasive challenge it poses. Check out the article on page 44, which offers a toolkit for robust defense, from adopting advanced digital security measures like two-factor authentication and password managers to simple, everyday precautions like document shredding and cautious sharing of personal information. It’s an essential read for anyone looking to protect their digital and physical personas in this interconnected age.

Meanwhile, explore the ancient practice of grounding—or earthing—and its resurgence in contemporary health discourse on page 34. Grounding involves direct contact with the Earth’s surface, tapping into its natural energy to combat inflammation, stress, and various chronic conditions. This article not only outlines the scientific underpinnings of grounding but also offers practical ways to integrate this healing practice into your daily routine, enhancing both physical and mental health.

We are thankful to our dedicated contributors who enrich this magazine with their knowledge and expertise, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their quality of life.

As you flip through the pages of this edition, we hope you find motivation and guidance to improve your health, protect your personal information, and gain new perspectives on living well. Remember, whether facing physical challenges, cinematic adventures, or digital vulnerabilities, the key to living well is staying informed and proactive.

Happy reading!

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.

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SPRING AND SAM HOUSTON

SAM AND SPRING HOUSTON

Experienced DWI Defense THE LAWYER LAWYERS CALL

Deandra M. Grant

JD, GC, MS

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.

“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

Co-Author of the Texas DWI Manual

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!”

Josh Lucas

Hollywood’s most understated actor talks range, voice, and finding solitude.

By SONDRA BARR

When actor Josh Lucas appears on screen, he might not instantly command the marquee recognition some of his contemporaries do, but his impact is undeniable. His roles have spanned the spectrum from indie gems to blockbuster films, and yet, one of his most iconic contributions lies in a realm beyond the visual—his voice.

With a tone that’s both soothing and evocative, Lucas has lent his vocal talents to narrating commercials for Home Depot and Lexus, turning mundane adverts into compelling narratives. It’s this voice that has quietly infiltrated the consciousness of millions, becoming as familiar in households as the brands he endorses.

Born Joshua Lucas Easy Dent Maurer, his journey into the world didn’t follow the usual path. Lucas’s childhood was an odyssey of constant movement, with his family resettling in over 30 different locales by the time he was 13. His early years were imbued with a sense of adventure and a deep appreciation for storytelling, while his transient lifestyle, marked by stints on an Indian reservation and numerous school changes, became the fertile ground on which his acting aspirations took root.

“I was born in Fayetteville, Arkansas, and moved all over the South. My parents were both doctors and sort of hippies that were very intellectual and very active in politics, and the ideas that they wanted to make an impact, and that they moved me. They were young when they had me,” he told writer Doug McLaughlin for Nobleman magazine.

“And we moved so often that part of the thing that started to happen for me, or with me, is that I was a bit of, I don’t want to say a chameleon or a shapeshifter, but I would go to a new school every time, and I would try and be like somebody cool from the school I used to go to because I could get away with it now. I was, I think, creating an identity as an actor without realizing that’s what I was doing.”

These early experiences would later become a cornerstone of his craft. Through his career, Lucas’s filmography blossomed into a comprehensive catalog of characters. His journey from the gritty survival story in Alive (1993) to the physiological thriller American Psycho (2000) to roles in You Can Count on Me (2000) and The Deep End (2001) showcased not only his versatility but also a keen instinct for choosing roles that resonate. His breakthrough came with A Beautiful Mind (2001) where his performance garnered widespread acclaim, setting the stage for his memorable co-starring role in Sweet Home Alabama (2002), before appearing in Wonderland (2003) and the superhero movie Hulk (2003).

Undeterred by the magnetic pull of Hollywood blockbusters, Lucas chose to delve into producing and starring in projects that resonated more deeply with his personal artistic vision. This pivot toward more character-driven narratives didn’t diminish his ability to attract audiences, however. His roles in critically acclaimed films such as Th Lincoln Lawyer (2011) and Ford v Ferrari (2019) reaffirmed his status as a versatile actor capable of drawing viewers into the complexities of his characters. Yet, it’s his portrayal of a younger John Dutton in Yellowstone that has come to encapsulate the essence of Lucas’s career. This role, although sporadic, is rich in the rugged charm and depth Lucas has honed over the years. Lucas’s return to Yellowstone in season five, after appearing only in brief flashbacks during the first two seasons, was met with enthusiasm by fans. When the show finally returns for its last episodes, Lucas hints of his re-appearance.

Reflecting on the connection he has developed with his Yellowstone character, Lucas has expressed his eagerness for more, particularly at the hint of a potential spin-off. “Man, from your lips to God’s ears. I would love it. I mean, obviously I love the world Taylor (Sheridan) has created. I love seeing the generational aspect, the time aspect, obviously the 1800s on. So yeah, I would be there in a second,” he shared with Entertainment Tonight’s Denny Directo.

Transitioning from the raw intensity of Yellowstone to the colorful intrigue of the Apple TV+ series Palm Royale, Lucas once again proves his versatility, joining a cast of celebrated talents like Kristen Wiig, Carol Burnett, Laura Dern, Allison Janney, Ricky Martin, and Leslie Bibb. Set against the glamorous backdrop of 1960s Palm Beach, Palm Royale introduces audiences to the complexities of high society.

Lucas, who filmed Palm Royale and the first part of Yellowstone’s final season concurrently, told the Las Vegas Review-Journal, “It’s a wild time in the acting business. I was leaving this opulent world of Palm Beach to slap on a mustache to pretend to be Kevin Costner. It was challenging in the most amazing way.”

“I was leaving this opulent world of Palm Beach to slap on a mustache to pretend to be Kevin Costner.

Yellowstone

Photo Courtesy Paramount Network

Sweet Home Alabama

Photo Courtesy Touchstone Pictures

In discussing his Palm Royale character, Lucas illuminates Douglas’s background with a mix of fondness and complexity. “He’s a blue blood from Palm Beach...He thought it was horrible,” Lucas says about Douglas’s disdain for his world, yet he finds himself drawn back by love and the pursuit of an inheritance. Douglas, described by Lucas as “not the brightest bulb” with a penchant for mischief and poor decision-making, brings a relatable, if not endearing, messiness to the opulent setting of Palm Beach.

Away from the camera, Lucas’s off-screen world is just as colorful and deep as the characters he portrays, but in a different, more grounded way. Lucas found a slice of paradise in Ojai, California, a place where he swaps scripts for the simple joy of living with his son, Noah.

Lucas has always envisioned owning a picturesque, out-of-the way spot. He told the Las Vegas Review-Journal earlier this year, “I had these bizarre dreams about the place where I am right now. I didn’t understand them then, but I’d have one every six months, every couple of years,” said Lucas. According to the article, a doctor’s friend encouraged Lucas to visit Ojai. “I heard a piece of property was for sale the next day. I drove to see it, and a huge owl swept down on me. All of a sudden, I knew this was my place.”

“There’s no yearning to get the part or make a movie when I’m out there. I just am—and those are truly perfect moments,” he adds. “So many of the coolest things in life are simple.”

“So many of the coolest things in life are simple.

Palm Royale Photo Courtesy Apple TV+

The Secret

Photo Courtesy Red Arrow Studios

The Purge

Photo Courtesy Universal Pictures

The Mysteries of Laura Photo Courtesy Warner Bros.

Carly, Colon Cancer Survivor

Ways to Build a Healthy Habit 5

Courtesy of TEXAS ONCOLOGY

Over the course of a lifetime, one in three women will face a cancer diagnosis. “For men, the odds stand at one in two. The good news is that between 30 and 50% of cancers may be preventable,” according to the World Health Organization. By taking small but meaningful actions toward a healthier lifestyle, you can create a positive habit that could decrease your cancer risk. Texas Oncology suggests five ways to get started.

Get Regular Cancer Screenings

Screening exams are the most effective way to detect cancer in its earliest stages – often before it has spread and when treatment is the most effective. Call your physician to schedule your annual screenings and reach out to friends and loved ones to ensure they do the same.

Get Moving

Whether you prefer biking, gardening, walking, or yoga, it’s important to get active. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends healthy adults participate in a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week. Incorporating regular physical activity into your daily routine can reduce your risk for several major cancers, as well as improve quality of life for those already fighting cancer.

Stop Smoking

Eat Right

Managing your weight and eating a well-balanced diet full of nutrient-rich foods is critical to both preventing and fighting cancer. To bolster your body’s defenses against cancer and other illnesses, limit your intake of sugars, saturated fats, trans fats, and alcohol. Instead, opt for healthy foods like nutrient-packed produce, dark, leafy greens, and a variety of seasonal fruits and cruciferous vegetables.

Practice Sun Safety

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer, but many cases are preventable. The sun constantly produces ultraviolet (UV) rays that can penetrate clouds and affect your skin, even on overcast days or during cold weather. Limit exposure to UV rays by avoiding indoor tanning, applying sunscreen year-round, and wearing protective clothing that covers your skin.

Smoking-related deaths represent 80% of lung cancer mortalities, and half of lifetime smokers will die from some tobacco-related disease, according to the American Cancer Society. Research shows that smoking cessation is paramount to lung health, and smokers who quit are more likely to live healthier and longer lives, while greatly decreasing their lung cancer risk. If you smoke and don’t know how to quit, call the Quitline at (877) 937-7848 for help and support.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle doesn’t mean changing everything overnight. By starting with small, intentional changes in your daily routine, you can create lasting healthy habits. For more information about the steps you can take to reduce your cancer risk, visit www.TexasOncology.com.

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.

Expert Orthopedic Surgeons Close

Left to right

William F. Tucker, MD

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

TopDocsList.com

Adult In-Home Care Agency

Spectrum Health Solutions

Visiting Nurse Association of Texas

Alzheimer’s Care/Memory Care

Hidden Springs of McKinney

Prestonwood Court

The Iris Memory Care

Audiologist

Teresa Harris

North Dallas Ear, Nose and Throat

Cassandra Wilson

Hearing Services of McKinney

Bariatric Surgeon

John Alexander

Alexander Center for Obesity Surgery

Brian Long

Nicholson Clinic

Nick Nicholson

Nicholson Clinic

Thomas Roshek

Nicholson Clinic

Cardiac Surgeon

Brian Lima

Advanced Cardiothoracic Surgeons

Baxter Montgomery

Montgomery Heart and Wellness

Cardiologist

Irfan Hameed

Excel Cardiac Care

Tim Isaac

Premier Cardiovascular Care

Marc Shalek

Legacy Heart

Chiropractor

Cyrus Laali

Epic Chiropractic

Nicole Jackson

Grounded Wellness

Eric Peay

Corehealth Wellness

Cosmetic and Facial Plastic Surgeons

Jeff Angobaldo

Renaissance Plastic Surgery and Med Spa

Richard Ha

Dallas Plastic Surgery Institute

Gregory Roberts

Robert’s Cosmetic surgery

Dentist

David Bohannan

Bohannan Dentistry

Daniel Kou

Core Dentistry

Jason Roe

ProDental Dallas

Jenny Tai

Murphy Dental & Implant Center

Dermatologist

Carla Gustovich

Magnolia Dermatology

Rachel Quinby-Graves

Magnolia Dermatology

James Ralston

Dermatology Center of McKinney

Jerald Sklar

Dallas Associated Dermatologists

Daniel Smith

Dallas Diagnostics

Hospital for Surgeries

Baylor Heart Plano

Eminent Medical Center

Medical City McKinney

Medical City Plano

Presbyterian Hospital Plano

Endodontist

Hank Garrett

Hank Garrett, DDS

ENT – Ears, Nose, & Throat Specialist

Kenny Carter

Collin County Ear, Nose and Throat

Morris Gottlieb

North Dallas Earn Nose and Throat

Timothy Ragsdale

Texas ENT Specialists

Andrew Senchak

Texas Ear and Vestibular Institute

Family Physician

Guy Culpepper

Bent Tree Family Physicians

William Dodge

Questcare Medical Clinic

Martin Mcelya

Neighborhood Medical Center

Todd Wien

Village Health Partners

Lauren Woolbert

Village Health Partners

Gastroenterologist

Vijay Bapat

Baylor Scott & White

Steve Gadol

Methodist Health System

Rema Lamba

Texas Digestive Disease Consultants

Marley Lites

Digestive Health Associates of Texas

Sony Mathews

Texas Digestive Disease Consultants

General Surgeon

Robert Hagood

North Central Surgical Center

Brian Long

Nicholson Clinic

Sandra Moore

Texas Health Center for Diagnostics & Surgery

Nick Nicholson

Nicholson Clinic

Thomas Roshek

Nicholson Clinic

Hematologist/Oncologist –Cancer Care Specialist

Chad Amosson

Genesis Care

Alison Barron

Texas Oncology

Sharon Gregorcyk

Texas Oncology

Margarita Johnston

Texas Oncology

Mitchell Moskowitz

Texas Oncology

Gerardo Trillo

Texas Oncology

Internal Medicine Doctor

Bijas Benjamin Inspire Health

V. John Gonino

Gonino Center for Healing

Julie Kennedy

Baylor Scott and White

Susan McKinney

HealthCore Physicians Group

Gary Tigges

Plano Internal Medicine

Hospice Care Providers

Cantex–Hollymead

Cantex–San Remo

Visiting Nurse Association of Texas

Lasik Surgeon

Dain Brooks

Brooks Eye Care

Harvey Carter Carter Eye Center

Wallace Ryne

Clear View Lasik Center

Jeffrey Whitman

Key-Whitman Eye Center

Mohs Surgeon

Pooyan Rohani

McGuiness Dermatology

Neurologist

Ahmed Ata

Neurocare of TX

Charise Barta

Texas Neurology Consultants

Rajat Gupta

Headache and Pain Center

Jennifer Takesaka

Neurology Consultants of Dallas

Neurosurgeon

Fransico Batlle

WellSpine

Joseph Beshay

Dallas Brain, Spine, and Skull Base Surgery

Akwasi Boah

Texas Back Institute

Caetano Coimbra

Dallas Brain, Spine, and Skull Base Surgery

Rob Dickerman

North Texas Brain and Spine Institute

Shashank Gandhi

Texas Back Institute

Thomas Kosztowski

Texas Back Institute

Jefferson Miley

Jefferson T. Miley, MD

Blake Staub

Texas Back Institute

Opthalmologist

Norman Slusher

Slusher Eye Center

Kim Warren

Key-Whitman Eye Center

Jeffrey Whitman

Key-Whitman Eye Center

Optometrist

Carey Brooks

Eye Source

Amanda Hoelscher

Key-Whitman Eye Center

Jeffrey Hollingsworth

Hollingsworth Family Eye

Clint Meyer

Dallas Eyeworks

Oral Surgeon

James Bates

Texas Oral and Maxillo Facial

Surgery

Pedro Franco

DFWOMS

John Wallace

Dallas Oral Surgery

Orthodontist

George Dula

Dula Orthodontics

Jeffrey Johnson

Woodhill Dental Specialties

Mark Ozier

Ozier Orthodontics

Ericka Sample

Ericka Sample Orthodontics

Orthopedic Surgeon

Rahul Banerjee

North Texas Orthopaedic & Spine

Leroy Butler

OINT

Andrew Chambers

Texas Bone & Joint

Stephen Courtney

Advanced Spine Centers

Florian Dibra

Texas Joint Institute

Richard Evanson

Plano Orthopedic & Sports

Medicine Center

Justin Kane

Orthopedic Institute of North Texas

Diane Litke

L&W Orthopaedic Associates

Bilal Mahmood

Baylor Scott & Whtite

Brian Nwannunu

Texas Joint Institute

Vikas Patel

Orthopedic Institute of North Texas

James Stanley

North Texas Orthopaedic & Spine

Charles Toulson

Texas Joint Institute

Pain Management

Brent Belvin

American Pain & Wellness

Don Enty

American Pain & Wellness

Gregory Powell

American Pain & Wellness

Steven Remer

American Pain & Wellness

Kamlesh Sisodya

American Pain & Wellness

Periodontist

Jonathan Pajouh

Neighborhood Medical Center

Amit Patel

ROOT Periodontal & Implant Center

Pediatric Dentist

Paul Rubin

Frisco Kids Dentistry

Aleco Tujios

Woodhill Dental Specialties

Pediatrician

Halley Hogan

Cook Childrens

Julio Len

McArthur Pediatrics

George Nail

Centennial Pediatrics

Christopher Straughn

Forest Lane Pediatrics

Jason Terk

Cook Childrens

Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

Sheena Bhuva

Texas Back Institute

Craig Lankford

Texas Back Institute

Chun Lin

Texas Back Institute

Nayan Patel

Texas Back Institute

Physical Therapist

Michelle Pietrowski

Edge Physical Therapy

Hayden Taylor

Greater Physical Therapy

Laura Yeatts

Results Physiotherapy

Podiatrists

Justin Kane

Orthopedic Institute of North Texas

Reza Mobarak

SouthWest Foot and Ankle Center

Jonathan Pajouh

Neighborhood Foot and Ankle

Binoy Sheth

Premiere Foot & Ankle

Psychiatrist

Mark Cartwright

Carewright Clinical Services

Stephen Vobach

Vobach and Brennan Medical Group

Pulmonologist

Steven Davidoff

Southwest Pulmonary Assoc.

Taylor Long

Southwest Pulmonary Assoc.

Anthony Nebor

FiveStar Pulmonary Associates

Rheumatologist

Margarita Fallena

Rheumatology Associates

Jyuin Fan

Dallas Rheumatology

Swathi Gonnalagadda

Texas Rheumatology

Megha Patel-Banker

Arthritis & Rheumatology Institute

Spine Surgeon

Rajesh Arakal

Texas Back Institute

Francisco Batlle

WellSpine

Ted Belanger

Texas Back Institute

Sheena Bhuva

Texas Back Institute

Ray Bosita

Texas Back Institute

Scott Blumenthal

Texas Back Institute

Stephen Courtney

Advanced Spine Centers

Peter Derman

Texas Back Institute

Rob Dickerman

North Texas Brain and Spine

Michael Duffy

Texas Back Institute

Richard Guyer

Texas Back Institute

Kevin Ju

Texas Back Institute

Mark Kayanja

Texas Back Institute

Isador Lieberman

Texas Back Institute

A.J. Rush

Texas Back Institute

Alexander Satin

Texas Back Institute

Jessica Shellock

Texas Back Institute

Vudhi Slabisak

North Texas Orthopaedic and Spine

Jack Zigler

Texas Back Institute

Urologist

Zeeshan Danawala

Dr. Zeeshan Danawala

Michael Gross

Urology Clinics of NT

Vascular Surgeon

Dev Batra

Dallas Vein Institute

Tony Das

Connected Cardiovascular Care

Wound Care Specialist

David Godat

Godat Plastic Surgery

Tram Hill

Hill Wound Care

Reza Mobarak

DFW Wound Care

Matthew Pompeo

Promise Wound Care Clinic

Dear Olivia,

The doctor has told us that it is probably time to consider palliative care or hospice. We are not sure we really understand the difference. Can you shed some light on this for us?

~Seeking Help with Advanced Illness

Dear Seeking Help with Advanced Illness, Hospice can be a scary word, and palliative care is a confusing concept for many! At VNA, we try to help families navigate the difficult world of health care options when health is beginning to fail. Simply stated, palliative medicine is aimed at symptom management and quality of life for those with serious or complex medical conditions. Hospice is a type of palliative care but is only one option. In palliative care, a person does not have to be terminal and can continue all treatment options and doctors’ visits as desired. Your doctor may refer you to a palliative clinic or supportive palliative care program if he or she feels that you may benefit from a specialist in

symptom management and coordination of care. Oftentimes, complex conditions require the input of a team of physicians, and to help you navigate this sometimes confusing and stressful journey, palliative care can offer the expertise of a physician certified in hospice and palliative medicine, medical social worker, RN case manager, Nurse Practitioner, and spiritual counselor. Another option at the end of life is hospice care, which is a type of palliative care focused on quality of life and providing comfort. For patients who wish to stay at home (or the place they call home) and no longer want to go to the hospital or emergency room, hospice can provide the same type of interdisciplinary care as palliative care once treatment has ended, or a patient and family no longer wish to pursue curative options. VNA Hospice and Palliative care are here to help you with these difficult decisions, and we are only a phone call away for assistance at any time.

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.

~Olivia

“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

CrossTimbersRd.

Andrew Chambers, M.D.

Orthopedic Surgeon

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

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

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

3201 Matlock Road, Suite 260

Arlington, Texas 76015

877-314-8990

tbjortho.com

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT FUNERAL HOME

By RICK ALLEN

Fortunately, most people will only need the services of a funeral professional two or three times over the course of their lifetime. Although a person may attend several funerals during their lives, they will only be responsible for choosing who to use for a close family member a few times. If you’ve had a good experience in the past, that is normally who you will call again. But what if you’ve never needed those services or you are new to your area and find yourself in need of a funeral home?

Surveys have indicated that people will choose and most often remember a funeral professional because of the way that person made them feel when they had their first encounter. You can only do so much reliable research before the time comes that you need to have a conversation with someone and then make your choice. Part of that research prior to calling someone that can be useful is to look at a BBB rating. See if that funeral home has had complaints filed and how they were resolved. If you belong to a church, check with your pastor or religious leader. They will often have experiences working with different funeral directors and can offer guidance based upon those who they’ve had the best encounters with. Also, checking the content on a funeral home’s website can shed light on whether there may be a good fit. Ultimately, after doing your due diligence, call and talk to a funeral director and have some questions ready to ask during that conversation.

Cost for the services you will want provided will be something to cover in that discussion. But, unless you only have limited or little money with which to work, you should refrain from only focusing on who is the cheapest. As with all things, the cheapest price is usually a result of corners being cut, processes skipped or less than ethical practices being used. Instead of focusing on just cost, listen to how the person you are talking to answers your questions. You will be able to pick up quickly on how interested that person is in serving you and your family or if you feel as if you are being “sold”. A good funeral professional will be kind, patient, understanding and will spend whatever time is necessary to be sure you have clear and concise answers to all your questions and concerns. Surprisingly, after two or three conversations with different funeral directors, you should detect very distinctive differences and the one you feel most comfortable with will become apparent.

Your funeral director has been educated and has experience in all the details that need to be tended to in meeting legal requirements and helping you plan a tribute that will be meaningful, appropriate and affordable. Taking the time on the front end of the process to assure you are working with the best fit for your needs will pay off in the end. Finally, don’t put off having this discussion until you have a need. Planning for an imminent death or pre-planning for yourself prior to the time of need is highly encouraged. Having things decided and secured ahead of time is a gift to your family that will be appreciated more than you can imagine.

Robotic

Total Hip Replacement

Total Knee Replacement

Partial Knee Replacement

Total Hip and Knee Revisions

Premier Foot & Ankle specializes in the treatment of all foot and ankle issues patients of all ages may experience. Our dedicated providers are committed to providing patients with quality care and pain relief using cuttingedge technology such as Pulse Activation Treatment to cure heel pain/plantar fasciitis as well as Padnet vascular and Smart Scan nerve testing for diabetics. By for the entire family, we at Premier Foot & Ankle focus on treating both the injured athlete and anyone with foot or ankle injuries.

Premier Foot & Ankle is the leading practice of foot and ankle specialists in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area as evidenced by multiple awards such as the Best of Dallas 2011-2012 and 2015-2020 and the Reader’s Choice Best of Living 2017. As a trusted and dedicated

provider, Premier Foot & Ankle is here to help patients alleviate their foot and ankle pain resulting from various foot disorders and injuries such as sports

and diabetic foot care.

To move toward your pain-free lifestyle with an individualized comprehensive treatment plan, visit us today at www.premierfoot.com to schedule your appointment!

A PRIMER on PROBATE

By LEU, PEIRCE & OLSON, PLLC

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

Probate provides for an orderly transition of property ownership following a death. Probate often is necessary when an individual dies holding title to property that had no named beneficiaries. Accounts with rights of survivorship or payable-on-death beneficiaries are examples of property not subject to probate. Importantly, in most cases, title to real property listed in more than one name does not automatically pass to the survivor. Therefore, probate is often necessary to transfer title of a homestead to a surviving spouse.

Any “interested person” may initiate the probate process. This includes anyone having a property right in, or claim against, the estate. Texas has two types of formal probate procedures. Most probates are handled as independent administrations, meaning the executor or administrator, after being appointed by the court, does not have to post a bond or ask the court’s permission before paying debts and distributing the estate. By contrast, a dependent administration is a court-supervised administration. If there is no Will, or if the Will does not provide for an independent administration, the administration will be “dependent,” unless the beneficiaries agree otherwise. Dependent administrations tend to be more expensive, because the administrator must seek court approval for every major decision. However, this added burden and expense may be preferable to protect the administrator if the estate has multiple creditors or feuding beneficiaries.

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

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

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

There are many factors and variables to consider when determining whether and what type of probate proceeding is appropriate for an estate. A Will remains a valid legal document for four years after the date of death. After that time, if administration of an estate is necessary, it will be handled as if there was no Will. Therefore, if a loved one has died, it is important to contact an attorney who handles probate to discuss which of the various options is best suited to meet your circumstances. Lori Leu, Erin Peirce, and Lauren Olson are Elder Law attorneys with Leu, Peirce & Olson, PLLC located in Plano, Texas. They can be reached at 972-996-2540.

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

Health Benefits of Grounding

In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, we often find ourselves disconnected from the natural rhythms of the Earth. However, emerging research suggests that reconnecting with the Earth’s negative electric charge through a practice known as “grounding” or “earthing” may offer numerous health advantages. Grounding involves direct contact with the Earth’s surface, such as walking barefoot on grass, sand, or soil. Another way is to use conductive indoor systems that mimic the effects of direct contact with the Earth. This electrical conduction may lead to various healthy physical effects.

Grounding and its health benefits have existed for thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine, Aboriginal cultures, and Indigenous communities. In the 1800s, well-known German scientists began proposing walking barefoot for health benefits.

Reconnecting with Nature

At the heart of grounding lies the concept of the Earth’s negative electric charge. The Earth’s surface is endowed with a subtle electrical charge, primarily due to its continual exposure to the sun’s radiation and the Earth’s internal energy. This negative charge is abundant in free electrons, which are essential for neutralizing positively charged free radicals in the body. Free radicals, often associated with inflammation and oxidative stress, are implicated in various chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, and neurodegenerative conditions.

Health Benefits of Grounding

The consensus is that you may feel some health benefits (such as improved mood and energy) within one session of grounding, but consistent practice for as many days as possible throughout a lifetime is ideal. Some of the many benefits to grounding can be:

1. Reduction of Inflammation: Grounding has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, likely due to its ability to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. Inflammation is a key factor in the development of numerous diseases, including arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. By reducing inflammation, grounding may con tribute to overall health and well-being.

2. Improved Sleep: Several studies have suggested that grounding can im prove sleep quality and duration. By restoring the body’s natural circadian rhythms and reducing cortisol levels, grounding may promote deeper, more restorative sleep. Many individuals report experiencing a sense of relaxation and tranquility after spending time grounded, which can contribute to better sleep patterns.

3. Enhanced Immune Function: The immune system plays a crucial role in defending the body against pathogens and maintaining overall health. Ground ing has been shown to support immune function by reducing inflammation and oxi dative stress, thereby enhancing the body’s ability to fight off infections and diseases.

7. Cardiovascular Health: Grounding may have positive effects on cardiovascular health by reducing blood viscosity, improving blood flow, and regulating blood pressure. These benefits contribute to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and related complications.

Incorporating Grounding into Daily Life

The idea of grounding may sound unusual but if you’re interested, there are multiple simple ways of incorporating grounding into your daily. Here are some suggestions for embracing the benefits of grounding:

4. Stress Reduction: Spending time grounded has been associated with decreased stress levels and increased feelings of calmness and relaxation. Grounding helps to balance the autonomic nervous system, which regulates stress responses, leading to a state of greater equilibrium and well-being.

5. Pain Relief: Grounding has shown promise as a complementary t managing chronic pain conditions, such as fibromyalgia and arthritis. By reducing inflammation and improving circulation, grounding may alleviate pain and discomfort, allowing individuals to experience greater mobility and quality of life. Studies have also shown improved wound healing.

6. Improved Mood and Mental Health: Connecting with the Earth’s natural energy has been linked to improved mood and mental health outcomes. Grounding promotes the release of endorphins and serotonin, neurotransmitters associated with feelings of happiness and well-being. Additionally, spending time outdoors in nature has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. Many people report on the spiritual aspect of grounding, including feelings of peace, meditation, and contentment after a grounding session.

• Routinely walk barefoot outdoors on grass, sand, or soil. Simply take off your shoes and connect directly with the Earth’s surface to experience its rejuvenating effects for a few minutes if you don’t have time for a walk at that moment.

• Engage in gardening activities, such as planting, weeding, or harvesting, to connect with the Earth and reap the therapeutic benefits of working with soil and plants. Press your hands into the dirt to feel the earth.

• Spend time outdoors engaging in activities like picnicking, hiking, or practicing yoga in natural settings. Embrace the beauty of nature and allow yourself to unwind and recharge.

• Spend time lying flat on the dirt, grass, sand, or gravel with your back, legs, or arms bare.

• To help your natural circadian rhythm, try getting into the sunlight when you first wake up and dimming the lights at least 2 hours before bedtime.

• Submerge yourself in a natural body of water, such as swimming in a pond, lake, or ocean. Consider this a great excuse to book that beach vacation!

Where to Learn More

Articles on studies of grounding are published at the National Library of Medicine. You can read those at pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. There is also a documentary movie called The Earthing Movie which you can learn more about at resilience.org. At the time this article was written you could stream and view it on Amazon Prime.

How Do I Know It’s Working?

Some of the quickest results people share are lower stress increased energy levels, and improved mood and sleep quality. It’s a free suggested holistic method of health and wellness, so try it. See whether it works for you. If it does, great. Just remember to wash your feet if it doesn’t and put your shoes back on! Do what works best for you.

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Treating Hearing Loss

Who You Should See and What Steps You Should Take

By CASSANDRA WILSON, AU.D., CCC-A, FAAA

Hearing is one of the body’s most remarkable senses. It integrates with our brain to help us connect with the world around us. Made up of a complex system of delicate and synchronous parts, it’s easy to take this vital sense for granted. If any of these components aren’t working properly, the result could be hearing loss. For 48 million Americans—or nearly one in five, ages 12 and older—this is precisely the case.

If you think you or someone you know has hearing loss, you’re probably wondering what the next step should be. That’s easy; see a hearing professional. It’s important to see someone who specializes in hearing issues such as a Doctor of Audiology. Schedule a comprehensive evaluation to begin treatment and rehabilitation as soon as possible.

DON’T DO IT ALONE

While hearing loss typically can’t be reversed, most cases can be managed with the help of an Audiologist and hearing aids.

SEE A PROFESSIONAL

Just as every person is unique, every hearing loss and need is unique too. To ensure you get a solution that’s custom fit to your precise needs and lifestyle, it’s always recommended that you consult with an audiologist. These trained experts have the experience, education, and technology needed to diagnose and measure your degree of hearing loss, then recommend and administer a solution personalized for you, including ongoing support and care.

GET THE RIGHT SOLUTION

Today the best solution for sensorineural hearing loss is hearing aids. Like all high-tech devices, hearing aids have improved significantly over the past several years in terms of performance and appearance. From “invisible” solutions that fit deep inside your ear and are virtually undetectable but still deliver exceptional sound quality, to wireless options that stream audio from your phone and TV, today’s hearing aids sound better, fit more comfortably, and perform more reliably than ever before.

HOW A HEARING AID WORKS (THE BASICS)

A microphone picks up sound and converts it into an electrical/digital signal. An amplifier then increases the strength of the signal, which in our more sophisticated devices is manipulated by advanced signal processing. This allows the signal to be “shaped” to someone’s hearing loss. The receiver or speaker converts it back into sound and sends it into the ear canal, to eventually reach the inner ear. That signal goes up the auditory pathway to the brain which “hears” and understands the sound as speech.

There is a difference between basic amplification products and hearing aids. Hearing aids and personal sound amplifier products (PSAPs) both improve the ability to hear sound. PSAPs are typically stripped of sound enhancement features. In many ways, these devices are a throwback to the old analog hearing aids that basically just made all sounds louder. However, prescriptive hearing aids are designed to improve your hearing in more difficult listening situations with advanced technology features like feedback elimination, noise reduction technology and often better ability to hear on the phone.

TWO ARE BETTER THAN ONE

Nearly 95% of people with sensorineural hearing loss can be helped with hearing aids. But wearing two hearing aids delivers these additional benefits:

• Better understanding of speech

• Better understanding of background noise

• Better and smoother sound quality

• Better sound identification and localization

• Better tinnitus masking

TREATMENT MAKES A DIFFERENCE

Research by the National Council on Aging (NCOA) concluded that hearing loss treatment is shown to improve: physical health, communication in relationships, warmth in family relationships, ease in communication, emotional stability, sense of control over life events, and earning power.

THE RIGHT FIT

Today’s best hearing aids are precision instruments, utilizing advanced technology that can and should be customized to fit your specific hearing loss and unique lifestyle needs. Determining which hearing aids are right for you depends on a variety of important and unique factors including: the nature and severity of your hearing loss, your eyesight and dexterity, the size and shape of your outer ear, the types of activities you enjoy (listening needs assessment) and cosmetic concerns. That’s why getting fit with the advice and consultation of an experienced Audiologist can’t be overemphasized.

GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR INVESTMENT

The Better Hearing Institute reiterates this in their report: “The hearing aid fitting process requires complete in-person hearing assessment in a sound booth; the training and skills of a credentialed hearing professional in order to prescriptively fit the hearing aids using sophisticated computer programs; and appropriate in-person follow-up and counseling. This is not possible when consumers purchase one-size-fits-all hearing aids over the internet or elsewhere.”

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.

KOONS FULLER

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

KOONSFULLER SHAREHOLDERS

ROW 1: NEDA GARRETT,* BRIAN LOUGHMILLER,*† LIZ PORTER,* CHARLA BRADSHAW,* IKE VANDEN EYKEL,*†, RICK ROBERTSON,* HEATHER KING*, JESSICA JANICEK,* JULIE CRAWFORD*

ROW 2: DREW WILLIAMSON,* DANA MANRY,* SEAN ABEYTA,* JESSICA PERRONI,* SALLY PRETORIUS,* CHRIS MEUSE,* FRED ADAMS,* KEVIN SEGLER,* ROB MCEWAN*, LAURA S. HAYES,* TOM DALEY*, PAUL LEOPOLD**

*Board certified in family law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

†Board certified in civil trial law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

**Board certified in civil appellate law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

We’re solely focused on family law. So you can fully focus on your family.

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.

RICK ROBERTSON SHAREHOLDER VOTED 2024 TOP LAWYER LIZ PORTER SHAREHOLDER VOTED 2024 TOP LAWYER

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

DENTON

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

PLANO

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

SOUTHLAKE

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

Southwest Foot & Ankle Center is a respected group of board certified foot and ankle surgeons. They are fellow trained surgeons, and board certified in wound care and reconstructive surgery. All physicians have also completed an intense residency and fellowship in the area of limb salvage, and foot and ankle surgery. The team at Southwest Foot & Ankle Center strive to make each patient’s experience personable. Our outcomes are of perfection and meticulous in surgery. As a result, patients from all over the country seek to be treated by DFW Wound Care Center.

Foot and Ankle Surgery

Bunion and Hammer Toe Correction

MIS—Minimally Invasive Surgery

Heel Pain (Plantar Fasciitis) Stem Cell Therapy

Neuropathy

Ingrown Toenails Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Foot Care

Feet Trauma Wound Care

Custom Orthotics & Braces Laser Therapy for Pain, Swelling, Arthritis, and Wounds PLANO CLINIC

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

VUDHI SLABISAK, MD OrthopaedicSpineSurgeon

BRUCE MARKMAN, MD OrthopaedicSurgeon&Sports MedicineSpecialist

JAMES STANLEY, MD OrthopaedicSpineSurgeon

STEVE HONG, MD Interventional Pain ManagementSpecialist

RAHUL BANERJEE, MD OrthopaedicSurgeon

GEOFFREY G. GLIDDEN, MD OrthopaedicSurgeon

AMIR MALIK, MD Neurosurgeon

KHAWAJA IKRAM, DO OrthopaedicSurgeon

CHARLES MARDER, DPM Podiatrist,Foot&AnkleSurgeon

AMIR AHMED, MD Gastroenterologist

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.

PREVENTING Identity Theft

In 2023 alone, there were more than one million reports of identity theft received through the FTC’s IdentityTheft.gov website. “Digital tools are making it easier than ever to target hard-working Americans, and we see the effects of that in the data we’re releasing today,” said the Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection, Samuel Levine. The act of someone using your financial or personal information without your consent is known as identity theft. The FTC is working hard to take action to protect consumers but the most impactful place to start is by actively securing your personal information. Your name, address, credit card, bank, Social Security, and health insurance account details could be taken by scammers and they could use them to:

• Buy things with your credit cards

• Get new credit cards in your name

• Open a phone, electricity, or gas account in your name

• Steal your tax refund

• Use your health insurance to get medical care

• Pretend to be you if they are arrested

By taking precautions to safeguard your personal data, you can prevent identity theft. Here are some tips to keep identity thieves at bay.

Protect documents that have personal information. Store all your financial data, Social Security and Medicare cards, all other documents containing personal information in a safe place. When you decide to get rid of those documents, shred them before you throw them away. If you don’t have a shredder, look for a local shred day, or use a marker to block out account numbers. Amazon’s own top selling home-office shredder with great reviews is just $38. You can also find a black out security ink roller there for under $15.

Ask questions before disclosing your Social Security number. Some organizations need your Social Security number to identify you. These entities include the IRS, your bank, and your employer. Businesses such as these that require your Social Security number will not contact you by phone, email, or text you to ask for it. Other organizations that might ask you for your Social Security number might not really need it. Those organizations include a medical pro-

vider, a company, or your child’s school. Prior to providing them with your Social Security number, ask them these questions:

• Why do you need it?

• How will you protect it?

• Can you use a different number?

• Can you use just the last four digits of my Social Security number?

Protect Your Information Online

In today’s digital age, passwords are the keys to our online lives. From email accounts and social media platforms to online banking and shopping accounts, we rely on passwords to protect our sensitive information from unauthorized access. If you’re logging in to an online account you already know to use a strong password. But what makes a strong password? Microsoft.com has some great suggestions:

• At least 12 characters long but 14 or more is better.

• A combination of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.

• Do not use a word that can be found in a dictionary or the name of a person, character, product, or organization.

• Make it significantly different from your previous used passwords.

A strong password doesn’t provide any protection if prying eyes can get ahold of it. Here are some best practices for storing passwords and keeping those online accounts safe.

Use a Password Manager

Using a reliable password manager is one of the best ways to store passwords safely. All of your passwords are kept in one location in password managers, which are encrypted digital vaults that can only be accessed with a master password or biometric authentication. They generate strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts and automatically fill them in when you log in, eliminating the need to remember multiple passwords. Popular password managers include LastPass, 1Password, and Dashlane.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

When offered by an online site, utilize multi-factor authentication which offers extra security by requiring two or more credentials to log in to your account. The additional credentials you need to log in to your account fall into two categories: something you have—like a passcode you get via text or an authentication app, or something you are—like a scan of your fingerprint, your retina, or your face. Multi-factor authentication makes it harder for scammers to log in to your accounts if they do get access to your username and password.

Keep Passwords Offline

Passwords shouldn’t be kept on sticky notes that are affixed to your computer monitor, in spreadsheets, or unencrypted documents. Rather, keep them safely offline in a physical place like a safe or a locked drawer. Use a notepad or password journal made just for this purpose if you must write down your passwords.

Be Wary of Phishing Attacks

Beware of phishing emails, text messages, or phone calls that attempt to trick you into disclosing your passwords or other sensitive information. It is advisable to confirm the legitimacy of messages received from unknown senders and refrain from opening attachments or clicking on dubious links. Do not give your personal information to someone who calls, emails, or texts you. It could be a scammer trying to steal your information and they can be convincing!

Regularly Update and Rotate Passwords

Periodically review and update your passwords to ensure they remain strong and secure. For your most important accounts, think about updating the passwords every few months or following a security breach or possible compromise. Many password managers offer password health reports that identify weak or reused passwords that need to be updated.

Educate Yourself About Security Best Practices

Keep yourself updated about the newest risks to cybersecurity and the best ways to safeguard your online accounts. Learn how to properly protect your digital identity by attending webinars or workshops, subscribing to security newsletters, and keeping up with credible cybersecurity websites.

Credit Monitoring Services

Many companies sell identity theft protection services that may include credit monitoring, identity monitoring, identity recovery services, and identity theft insurance. These services might be offered by your bank or credit union, credit card provider, employer’s benefits program, or your insurance company.

Credit monitoring services scan activity that shows up on your credit reports and alert you of any new activity. They might monitor activity at one, two, or all three of the major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.

Companies that sell credit and identity monitoring services also may offer identity recovery services to help you fix any damage caused by identity theft. These services may be included or cost extra. Identity theft insurance generally won’t reimburse you for money lost resulting from the theft. Most policies won’t pay if your loss is covered by your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. If you’re considering getting identity theft insurance, ask about the deductible and find out what’s covered and what isn’t.

By following these best practices and staying vigilant, you can enhance the security of your digital presence and minimize the risk of falling victim to identity theft. If you have been a victim of identity theft, you may find helpful information on recovering from identity theft at www.livingwellmag.com/identity-theft.

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.