Texoma Area Living Well Magazine January-February 2019

Living Well Living Well

TEXOMA AREA

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2019

At Texoma Orthopedic and S pine, we are dedicated to providing our patients with the highest qualit y treatment of Orthopedic injuries and disorders for patients at all stages of life. O ur physicians, Mark Young, MD; Brian T. Rose, MD; C. Craig Cranford, DPM; and Benjamin W ilson, MD, believe in improving qualit y of life by providing their patients with education as well as top-notch surgical, non-surgical, diagnostic and therapeutic treatment options.

We provide a full range of surgical and non-surgical treatment options for a variet y of orthopedic conditions, inc luding osteoarthritis of the joints, sports injuries and fractures of the upper and lower extremities, as well as neck and back pain.

Mark Young, MD Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine

Surgical Services:

• Total Joint Replacement including Knee and Shoulder

• Fracture Repair

• Carpal Tunnel Release

• Rotator Cuff Repair

• Arthroscopic wrist, knee and shoulder surgery

Spotlight on our Surgeons

Brian T. Rose, MD Orthopedic Surgery of the Spine

Surgical Services:

• Spinal Fusion

• Kyphoplasty

• Cervical Disk Replacement

• Microdiskectomy

• Spinal Decompression

• Interlaminar Stabilization

C. Craig Cranford, DPM Foot and Ankle Surgery

Surgical Services:

• Foot and Ankle Trauma and Reconstruction

• Fracture repair

• Total Ankle Replacements

• Bunion Repair

• Hammertoe Repair

• Joint replacement in small joints

• Charcot reconstruction

• Foot and Ankle arthritic conditions

• Plantar fasciitis

• Achilles Tendon Repair

Benjamin Wilson, MD Orthopedic Surgery

Surgical Services:

• Total Joint Replacement including Hip, Knee and Shoulder

• Fracture Care and Repair

• Hand Trauma and Soft Tissue conditions

• Rotator Cuff Repair

• Arthroscopic Wrist, Knee and Shoulder Surgery

• ACL Repair

• Pre- and Post-surgical rehabilitation

• Arthritis treatment

• Sports Injuries

• Muscle dysfunction

• Sprains and strains

• Back & neck pain

physical therapy using Pilates and Yoga methods. Visit www.strongstable.com for more information.

I’m a Landmark.

People do business with people they like and trust – That’s why I do business with Landmark.

- Charlie Myers

I’ve been working with Landmark since the early 2000s on construction projects, and after seeing firsthand how they do business, I moved my business to them. Our partnership with Landmark has been a big part of MYCON’s success. Isn’t it time you became a Landmark?

TTHE THREE E’S

om Hanks still exudes a youthful affability that we should all be so lucky to retain in midlife. Indeed, it’s a rare quality to have, especially for someone with such an illustrious Hollywood resume. Yet, Hanks still charms audiences with his performances nearly four decades after he first arrived in Tinsel Town.

Adept at playing seemingly common men in uncommon circumstances, it’s no surprise that Hanks will slip into the famous red cardigan of one of America’s most beloved neighbors––Fred Rogers. The creator, composer, producer, head writer, and host of the preschool television series Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, Rogers’ Emmy-nominated PBS series influenced generations of children. Aired from 1968 to 2001, it was one of the longest-running children’s shows of all time.

It’s an ideal role for Hanks. Like Rogers, he has a passion for storytelling and educating. “I try to do what I call the three E’s––educate, entertain, and enlighten,” says Hanks, who in recent years has had to educate himself on the ins and outs of type 2 diabetes. After being diagnosed with the disease, he’s gone out of his way to bring attention to this epidemic. Read about his new role as America’s favorite neighbor and also how’s he managing diabetes inside.

Inside, we also direct your attention to attorney Craig Watson, who’s also on a mission to educate. He recounts the plight of a 78-year-old man whose beloved wife has had dementia for years. The couple’s children, while supportive, do not live near enough to help. Sally’s condition has worsened to the point that Harry has no choice except to admit Sally to a memory care center. It’s a situation that many of us may encounter at some point. Watson offers advice on how to deal with a similar scenario and what you can do to protect your assets in the event you or a loved one will ever need a nursing home. Check out his article.

As 2019 gets going, we hope you enjoy all the things medical and beyond in this issue of your local LIVING WELL Magazine. As always, please reach out to the community professionals that share their expertise on these pages. Remember, they’re just a call away.

Sincerely,

Sam and Spring Houston

PRESIDENT & CEO

Sam Houston

VICE PRESIDENT & CFO

Spring Houston

FEATURE WRITER, COPY EDITOR & SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR

Sondra Barr

ART DIRECTOR, LAYOUT, PRODUCTION & WEBSITE DESIGN

Lewis Schucart

ADMINISTRATION & ACCOUNTS MANAGEMENT

Jennifer Beavers

ADVERTISING/SALES

Texas | Denton County, Dallas County, Collin County

Texas & Oklahoma | Texoma

WRITE TO US. Tell us who you would like to see featured on the cover, or what subjects you would like covered in upcoming editions of LIVING WELL Magazine at spring@livingwellmag.com

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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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TEXOMA AREA

Baylor Scott & White Surgical Hospital at Sherman was recognized by Women’s Choice, a trusted referral source for women, as one of America’s top hospitals for Orthopedics.

Pain in your knee or hip joints can be debilitating, but you don’t have to let it keep you down. The highly skilled team of orthopedic surgeons on our medical staff uses advanced approaches to joint replacement and are dedicated to speedy recovery and maximum mobility for patients.

For partial and total knee replacement, we press the bar in industry standards, offering precision and innovation with Mako™ Robotic-Arm System for partial and total knee replacement. The robot system preserves as much of your natural joint as possible and can provide an accurate implant fit.

By Sondra Barr

TOM HANKS A

America’s Favorite Neighbor

fter nearly four decades in the spotlight, Tom Hanks still exudes a youthful affability. It’s a rare quality, especially for a longtime actor with such an illustrious Hollywood resume.

It was his boyish charm that helped Hanks land his first role in the early 1980s television comedy series Bosom Buddies. The breakout movies Splash and Big followed, endearing Hanks to a worldwide audience Hanks’ amiable boy-next-door persona has endured despite his growing influence as one of America’s most beloved actors. Tackling movies as varied as Sleepless in Seattle, Toy Story, Saving Private Ryan, Cast Away, The Da Vinci Code, Captain Phillips, and The Post, the 62-year old has been nominated for the best actor Oscar five times. Two Academy Awards––for Forrest Gump and Philadelphia––are among his impressive list of accolades. Meanwhile, Hanks’ films have grossed billions worldwide, squarely placing him among the top five highest-grossing actors ever.

Adept at playing seemingly common men in uncommon circumstances, it’s no surprise that Hanks will soon slip into the famous red cardigan of one of America’s most beloved neighbors Fred Rogers. The creator, composer, producer, head writer, and host of the preschool television series Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, Rogers’ Emmy-nominated PBS series influenced generations of children. Aired from 1968 to 2001, it was one of the longest-running children’s shows of all time.

It’s an ideal role for Hanks, who’s played the good guy in most of his beloved roles. When asked why he doesn’t play the villain more often in movies, Hanks explained to The Talks website, “I sometimes have a problem with the logic of bad guys. I’m not interested in playing some evil guy for the sake of evil. This is one of the standard movie formats: You have the incredibly good protagonist and the incredibly evil antagonist. They do battle and guess what? The protagonist always wins. I am not intrigued by that. I want to understand the motivation.”

I TRY TO DO WHAT I CALL THE THREE E’S ––EDUCATE, ENTERTAIN, AND ENLIGHTEN.

What motivates Hanks is a passion for story telling and an adherence to basic human decency. He credits attention to courtesy and discipline for his success. “What I do is glamorous and has an awful lot of white-hot attention placed on it. But the actual work requires the same discipline and passion as any job you love doing, be it as a very good pipe fitter or a highly creative artist,” Hanks explained to Oprah when the two celebrated personalities sat down during an interview for O Magazine.

“I try to do what I call the three E’s––educate, entertain, and enlighten. If you don’t entertain, no one will show up. But you also have to educate, because people want to discover specific things about a world unlike their own––whether it’s how hard it is to go to the moon or how scary it is to be on Omaha Beach,” he explained to Oprah. “A story also has the opportunity to enlighten us,

Continued, on page 10

From page 9

RIGHT: Tom Hanks in Forest Gump, 1994.

BELOW: Tom Hanks starring as Sully in the biographical drama Sully: Miracle on the Hudson directed by Clint Eastwood.

because as we connect the extraordinary moments on film with the ordinary moments of our lives, we ask ourselves, ‘What am I going to do the next time I’m scared? What would it be like to say goodbye to my family for the last time?’ Despite the fact that these movies are big engines of commerce, the characters remind us that we’re part of a greater humanity and that we can actually affect the world by the choices we make once we leave the theater.”

According to The Guardian, Hanks is famously uxorious, and his reliability as an actor is something that, from his first marriage at the age of 21, he has pegged to the stability of his home life. Hanks told the newspaper if he hadn’t married and had kids early, he might have had a tougher time handling his fame.

Married to actress Samantha Lewes from 1978 to 1987, the couple had a son and daughter before divorcing. He married actress Rita Wilson, with whom he has two children, in 1988.

“Other than moments of total terror, what it (marriage) provided me with was a nut that I had to provide: there’s three of us, now, and I need x numbers of dollars in order for us, literally, to survive,” said Hanks of his first union. “I need to make enough to be able to go to the dentist and fix my car, and as soon as I get on a decent dental plan, then the rest is the high country.”

Hanks shared with W Magazine’s Lynn Hirschbert the moment he knew he’d made it in Hollywood: “I didn’t feel as though I made it until I realized that I could make my house payments for two years, and if my car broke down I’d be able to get it fixed. And that wasn’t until, uh, going to say 1983.”

While Hanks admits that he’s now rich, according to

the aforementioned article, he is also extremely careful with money. “I read a long time ago that you can’t have debt. If you’re in debt, you can’t say no.” With that in mind, Hanks has stored away enough money so that if everything stops tomorrow, he won’t have to worry.

Life is never free from trials and tribulations, however––even for Tom Hanks. In 2013, Hanks revealed his type 2 diabetes diagnosis, telling then Late Show host David Letterman, “I went to the doctor, and he said, ‘You know those high blood sugar numbers you’ve been dealing with since you were 36? Well, you’ve graduated! You’ve got type 2 diabetes, young man.’”

Although his doctor had previously warned him about his elevated blood sugar numbers, like many Americans, Hanks ignored his doctor’s medical advice. It’s something he regrets.

“I’m part of the lazy American generation that has blindly kept dancing through the party and now finds ourselves with a malady,” the actor said in an interview for Radio Times

Speaking with another media outlet, Hanks shared: “There is an ocean of information out there and I am not an expert, but the truth is this is an epidemic in the U.S. because of our lifestyle and the food that we eat and the way we lead our lives. More people have diabetes than ever before.”

Sharing his diagnosis was a way for the star to take responsibility and encourage others to take action. Always the good neighbor, Hanks is vocal about the importance of quality healthcare and encourages fans to embrace a willingness to change habits––things he wishes he’d done sooner.

Of course, success to Hanks means more than taking care of his family, improving his health, and having money in the bank. He puts as much heart into philanthropic efforts as he does into his performances. His charitable range is impressive and encompasses efforts around conservation, children, and AIDS. Many of his most vocal efforts revolve around causes for veterans.

Hanks received an honorary induction into the Army Ranger Hall of Fame for his role in Saving Private Ryan. Not only has Hanks played the part of a soldier and veteran in several of his films, he supports real life heroes. Hanks was honored in 2018 by the Elizabeth Dole Foundation for his work with Hidden Heroes, the foundation’s efforts to aid veteran caregivers, a campaign he helped launch in 2016. He’s also on the advisory committee for the memorial to President Dwight D. Eisenhower and has helped raise funds for the national World War II Memorial.

Recently, Hanks also narrated a video aimed at combating the high rate of veteran suicides in the United States. “A handshake, a phone call, a simple gesture make a big difference to a veteran in crisis,” Hanks says in the video.

Hanks has said about Hollywood portrayals of veterans and service members that the best thing anyone can do is be authentic, something he hopes to continue to do with another war drama he’s working on based on a C.S. Forester novel that follows a Navy destroyer during the Battle of the Atlantic.

ABOVE: Tom Hanks will soon slip into the famous red cardigan of one of America’s most beloved neighbors––Fred Rogers of television series Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood

RIGHT: Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson at the 5th Biennial Stand Up To Cancer in Los Angeles.

HAVE YOU RECEIVED THE BEST ADVICE?

By Craig Watson

Harry is a 78 year old man whose beloved wife has had dementia for years. The couple’s children, while supportive, do not live near enough to help. Sally’s condition has worsened to the point that Harry has no choice except to admit Sally to a memory care center. Harry is very sad and feels like he has failed his wife because he cannot care for her at home any longer. They have about $90,000 in savings and a $90,000 home. His depression was made worse by the realization that he can’t afford her care. They still make monthly payments on loans for their home, car and pre-need funeral plans.

The nursing home personnel suggested that he get some free counseling available at a council of governments office regarding qualifying Sally for Medicaid assistance. His outlook sunk deeper when the case worker told him his only choice was to pay for Sally’s care until half the couple’s savings was gone at which time Sally would be able to qualify for Medicaid. Further, they didn’t even tell him how to protect his house from a Medicaid Estate Recovery Program (MERP) claim if he were to unexpectedly die before Sally. Harry’s brother suggested consulting with a local elder law attorney. After Harry provided the attorney with detailed information about the couple’s income, assets, debts and expenses, the attorney devised a plan that preserved all of the couple’s assets for Harry’s security and allowed Sally to qualify immediately for Medicaid. Harry was so relieved! Harry considered it a bonus that the attorney also suggested a special type of deed which would allow the house to pass to the couple’s children and avoid a MERP claim. Harry was very appreciative when the elder law attorney told him that this plan would also allow both of their estates to avoid probate, thereby saving their children money.

The above story is true; the names have been changed to protect the client’s confidentiality. Today’s senior citizens

are members of the Greatest Generation. They were taught that our government is “of the people, by the people and for the people.”

They would trust just about any government entity because, in their mind, the government is supposed to serve them as a taxpaying citizen. However, the cost of long term care is a big deal and protecting the financial security of today’s trusting senior citizen is not a priority for the government. The fact is that a man paying for his wife’s memory care pays a higher monthly fee than Medicaid would pay even though the level of care is exactly the same. Most senior citizens think fairness would dictate that the government would not negotiate a better deal for itself than it allows a taxpayer to get but that is not the case with respect to the price paid for care in a long-term care facility. Because a nursing home receives more money per month from a private citizen than it would for the same service rendered to a Medicaid patient, the nursing home has no incentive to refer a private citizen to an elder law attorney. In fact, the nursing home is incentivized to refer the private citizen to a counselor that will advise the citizen in such a way to keep the citizen on “private pay” for as long as possible because the nursing home will receive more monthly revenue for the same care from a private citizen than it would from Medicaid.

Obviously, the government would also like to see each citizen spend all of their money on their own long-term care. However, Congress has provided a set of statutes that outline what is required to qualify for Medicaid assistance. It is the elder law attorney’s job to know those statutes inside and out in order to apply the law to each client’s particular, special set of facts. He also helps clients plan to protect their assets even though there is no current indication that they will ever need a nursing home.

Craig Watson’s law practice focuses on Estate Planning, Probate, Guardianship and Elder Law. Formerly a CPA, he has over 25 years of experience. Call 903-813-8500 or go online to www.craigwatsonlaw.com.

Dentistry: which patient type are you? What you should know before going to the dentist.

“Been going there for several years, they are all great folks. They are concerned about your pain level. Some of the newest equipment available. You are not rushed through as a herd animal; they take the time to visit with you and listen to all your concerns about your treatment. All in all, a great place to get the smile you want.”

~W. Weaver

•People who want to keep their teeth healthy for a lifetime

People who don’t have problems with their teeth don’t mind going to the dentist regularly because they want to prevent dental problems and they want to catch problems early if they do occur. They typically are seen 2-4 times a year for oral health checkups, whitening and night guard checkups. These patients want to stay on top of their dental care with regular oral health checkups.

•People who have one or two problems with their smile or may be in pain

These folks can be inconsistent with their oral health checkups. They may notice pain when drinking cold liquids, while eating certain foods or may be woken at night with tooth pain. They may not be certain even which tooth is causing the pain. Sometimes these folks are motivated by a life event to upgrade their smile; for example, a wedding or a class reunion. They may have a discoloration or a chipped tooth. They may be embarrassed about their appearance or about their bad breath.

•People whose teeth are falling out and may have a family history of wearing dentures

There are people who may feel that some of their teeth are loose or falling out or their teeth are hopeless. They usually don’t go to the dentist at all because they are afraid of what the dentist might say, they may be worried about how painful the visit might be or may be concerned for financial reasons. They may have had a traumatic dental experience in their past. They are usually embarrassed by their smile or their bad breath. These folks may think they are too old to have a beautiful smile and a pain free mouth. Their parents or grandparents have worn dentures for many years, so they think that is normal. Our smile is what most people see first. A smile is a strong communication tool. When people don’t smile, others think they are grumpy or unfriendly. Most people avoid engaging in conversation with someone who has bad breath.

•People who already wear dentures

Folks who already have dentures have already dealt with multiple dental problems in their lifetime. Sometimes they say that bad teeth run in the family. They may have had a bad experience and spent lots of money on their teeth with poor results. People who get dentures may feel that once their teeth are out and the denture is placed that all their dental problems go away. These folks assume they will no longer have the need to see the dentist. Most denture wearers have a problem with their lower denture not staying in place, becoming loose and causing problems while eating or talking. They may not be able to eat the foods they enjoy, or their physician recommends. The older we get the more important it is to be able to chew the foods we want and need. Denture wearers can lose 60%-80% of their chewing function. Also, without the assumed need to go to the dentist these people miss out on much needed oral cancer screenings and they may be unaware of the advances in dental technology for denture wearers. They may have been told in the past they were not candidates for implants but with all the new advances in dentistry, they may be candidates for dental implants. The newest dental technologies include bone building materials, dentures for the upper arch that do not cover the palate, and implants that lock a prosthesis to their jaw. Patients are never too old for implants.

Sam J. Nechamkin, DDS, MS

What Premier Dentistry is known for:

Beautiful Smiles—we believe that a beautiful smile brings great confidence. You are never too old to have a beautiful smile.

Placing Implants—we enjoy providing dental implants for patients who have been suffering with a missing tooth or teeth. Patients love the way a dental implant looks and feels. Our patients like not having to be referred to another office to complete their treatment.

Sedation—for patients who fear the dentist or dental work, conscious sedation is the best option for them. We offer nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and I.V. sedation and our office also has hospital privileges if needed.

Procedures—free consults, exams, dental 2-D & 3-D Cat Scan radiology, oral health checkups, gum treatments, fluoride, sealants, tooth colored fillings, same day crowns, bridges, simple & surgical extractions, bone grafting, gum grafts, sinus lifts, removable partial dentures, frenectomies, tongue tie release, smile lift, veneers, orthodontics, night guard therapy, snore guard appliances, sleep apnea appliances, single tooth implants, multiple tooth implants, dental implants for Snap-On prosthesis and fixed dental prosthesis.

Painless injections—the most important thing to our patients is to not get hurt, our injections are nearly painless because we use a strong topical agent first and secret injection technique to keep the injection pain to a minimum, most of our patients say they don’t even feel the injection.

Our doctors—each of our dentists have a minimum of 25 years’ experience and thousands of continuing education hours, Dr. Nechamkin is a board-certified specialist in Periodontics and dental implants, we have two awesome dental hygienists with many years’ experience cleaning teeth and treating gum disease.

Dr. Sam J. Nechamkin (Dr. Sam) earned his doctorate degree at Baylor College of Dentistry and completed his Periodontics and Dental Implants specialty training at The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Dr. Sam practices all fields of general dentistry and is a boardcertified specialist in the field of periodontics,(foundation of teeth). He has received extensive training in dental implants and sedation dentistry. Dr. Sam has been distinguished as a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. A Diplomate “is a periodontist who has made significant achievements beyond the mandatory educational requirements of the specialty. “ Less than 35% of periodontists in the world hold the Diplomate status; Dr. Sam is the only Sherman dentist distinguished as a Diplomate in Periodontology.

Scott D. Schwalm, DDS

Dr Schwalm attended Illinois Wesleyan University for a BA in Biology and continued his education at the University of Washington School of Dentistry. Prior to moving to North Texas, Dr. Schwalm had an extremely successful and state-of-theart private practice in Bellevue, WA for 14 years.

Dr. Schwalm brings experience and his consistent pursuit of excellence for a wide variety of procedures. He loves the ability to take care of his patients from start to finish in the comfort of one office. When needed, he is also a stellar quarterback coordinating specialists and follow-up care, all in the interest of his patients.

Recently Scott, and wife Dawna, collaborated with shark biologists at Guadalupe Island, Mexico studying mega great whites who frequent the island each year. They plan on travelling back this year to continue the work to understand these amazing creatures.

D. Shane Edwards, DDS

Dr. Edwards received his Bachelor of Science for Abilene Christian University. He continued his education at the Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas graduating in 1995. Dentistry is Dr. Edward’s passion. His philosophy on dentistry encompasses comprehensive restorative care, including conscious sedation, aesthetics, dental implants, Fast Braces and the treatment of bruxism. He whole heartedly believes in staying abreast of advances in dentistry and is continually advancing his skills.

Dr. Edwards is dedicated to healthy beautiful smiles. He believes that the practice of dentistry is relationship based and patient driven. This enables him to provide comprehensive, interdisciplinary care to his patients. “I am committed to providing the highest quality of dental care available in an ethical and caring environment. I am dedicated to continual advancement of my knowledge and skills; I strive to deliver to each patient the type of care that I would accept for my own family.”

Brian J. Snow, M.D.

Orthopedic Surgeon

Brian J. Snow, M.D. is board certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery. He received his medical degree from the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine. After graduating from medical school he completed his orthopaedic surgery residency at the Los Angeles County + USC Medical Center, the busiest trauma center in the country. He then went on to complete a fellowship in advanced arthroscopy and sports medicine at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. During his training he treated a wide variety of injuries to athletes at all levels and contributed articles to medical literature about the long term effects of ACL reconstruction. He has served as the team physician for various high schools and cared for the University of Utah Utes and the USC Trojans.

• Hip Conditions

• Elbow

• Wrist/Hand

• Knee

• Foot/Ankle

• Shoulder

• Pediatrics

• Sports Medicine

• General Orthopedics

Alpha Orthopedics & Sports Medicine

McKINNEY MAIN OFFICE:

6850 TPC Drive, Suite 116

McKinney, Texas 75070

972.838.1635

Dallas Office:

12400 Coit Road Suite 505

Dallas, Texas 75251

972.385.8032

Prosper Office:

170 N. Preston Road, Suite 40

Prosper, Texas 75078

972.838.1635

Dr. COLLEEN GRAFA, PT, DSC

BOARD CERTIFIED ORTHOPEDIC PHYSICAL THERAPIST, ABPTS

Dr. Colleen Grafa, returns her physical therapy practice to hometown Sherman, TX and first place of employment, The Rehabilitation Center (TRC), when she and husband, Dr. Gary Grafa, moved to north Texas to raise their family. As a Board Certified orthopedic physical therapist, she specializes in the rehabilitation of the complex shoulder, pelvic floor dysfunction in men and women and movement dysfunctions causing pain and disability. With several advanced degrees and certifications, Dr. Grafa’s academic and clinical expertise in orthopedic and manual physical therapy has afforded her active involvement in clinical research, as an adjunct faculty member for Texas Woman’s University School of Physical Therapy, a lab instructor for Dr. Ma’s Integrative Dry Needling Certification courses and a physical therapy specialist for The Shoulder Centre of Baylor Medical Center, Dallas.

Empowering individuals through body- mind education and philosophy, Colleen incorporates her Pilates (PPI) and Yoga Instructor (YI – 200 hour) certifications and education into daily physical therapy treatments and exercise programs.

She and husband, Gary, are proud to call Sherman “home”; living, practicing and having raised their family here. Their three children, Whitney, Austen and Kirsten all graduated from Sherman High School and The University of Colorado, Boulder.

LIGHT THAT DISPELS THE DARKNESS

There is a frightening truth in life that evil masquerades as light. Especially as it’s drawing people into its web. Although these days, many times, evil flaunts in full view and dares you to call it out. It mocks and laughs at those who stand for truth and has a way of spinning things to make anyone with an opposing view look foolish.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote, “The great masquerade of evil has played havoc with all our ethical concepts. For evil to appear disguised as light, charity, historical necessity or social justice is quite bewildering to anyone brought up on our traditional ethical concepts, while for the Christian who bases his life on the Bible, it merely confirms the fundamental wickedness of evil.”

Bonhoeffer understood this better than most. He was a pastor and theolo-

gian. He was known for his fierce resistance to Nazi dictatorship and vocal opposition to Hitler’s euthanasia program and genocidal persecution of the Jews. He tirelessly worked to bring truth to the masses, especially the church. Sadly, most remained asleep until it was too late. You see, the German people were so defeated after the war and subsequent economic depression that they believed Hitler was their salvation. But he was a wolf in sheep’s clothing and the people would pay a heavy price. Eventually, Bonhoeffer was brought to an extermination camp at Flossenbürg. On April 9, 1945, one month before Germany surrendered, he was hanged with six other resisters.

In 1937, Bonhoeffer wrote the answer to dispelling and defeating the darkness. He shared what it means to be guided by truth, from a place fully alive and fully

awake. The book was The Cost of Discipleship ; a call to more faithful and radical obedience to Christ and a severe rebuke of comfortable Christianity. He practiced what he preached by signing up with the German secret service (to serve as a double agent—while traveling to church conferences over Europe, he was supposed to be collecting information about the places he visited, but he was, instead, helping Jews escape Nazi oppression). Bonhoeffer also became a part of a plot to overthrow, and later to assassinate, Hitler.

Something in this story makes me want to fight the good fight. There’s so much escapism through media, but who needs a good movie, when you can be a part of the great adventure!

Ronald Reagan said, “Freedom is never more than one generation

By Michelle Wallace

away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.”

I don’t care which side of the political aisle you’re on, if you’re young or old, male or female, rich or poor, you have a call to pursue and know the truth. How can we know we’re not being deceived? Apart from God we can’t, because He alone knows the hearts of men.

Like Bonhoeffer, once we know the truth we have a charge to stand for and even fight for it. What holds us back? The same thing that held many back during Hitler’s reign, it’s the fear of man. Proverbs 29:25 from The Passion Translation says, fear and intimidation is a trap that holds you back. But when you place your confidence in the Lord, you will be seated in the high place.

Friends, I want to be seated in the high place. The view from above is so much sweeter. Low living is for the chickens. You and I were meant for so much more.

Can I share something I’ve learned in the fight? Fighting for truth apart from love is futile. Love brings the light that dispels all darkness. It’s indispensable! Whether others see the truth, whether they listen or fail to listen, that’s not on us. The question is, “Are you willing to risk it all to love?” That’s the most excellent way!

The SS doctor who witnessed Bonhoeffer’s death later recalled the scene: “The prisoners were taken from their cells, and the verdicts of court martial read out to them. Through the half-open door in one room of the huts, I saw Pastor Bonhoeffer, before taking off his prison garb, kneeling on the floor praying

fervently to his God. I was most deeply moved by the way this lovable man prayed, so devout and so certain that God heard his prayer. At the place of execution, he again said a prayer and then climbed the steps to the gallows, brave and composed. His death ensued in a few seconds. In the almost 50 years that I have worked as a doctor, I have hardly ever seen a man die so entirely submissive to the will of God.”

Bonhoeffer sent one final message, to George Bell in England: “This is the end, for me the beginning of life.”

You and I may never be called as martyrs for standing for truth, but we are called to daily lay down our lives—To love people enough to share the truth in a way that best affords them the opportunity to real and lasting life.

To learn more about Michelle and see what she’s up to, visit her page on Facebook at “Michelle Wallace-Hand of the King.”

WHEN FAMILIES DISAGREE

Courtesy Dannel Funeral Home

It’s seldom talked about, but it happens. Families, grieving the loss of a loved one, come together quickly to make arrangements, but there are disagreements. Without a preplanning document as a guide, family members are left to make over 100 decisions about services and disposition, all in a very short timeframe.

Perhaps Frank believes a viewing would allow people to properly say goodbye to their mother, but his sister insists that cremation was what Mom wanted. Together, they struggle with the right choices to honor their mother and bring comfort to everyone else.

It’s understandable that members of a family will have diverse expectations or needs. The important thing to remember is that arrangements don’t

have to be either/or! They can be yes/and! It’s an enormous relief for many people to have Dannel Funeral Home’s experienced professionals listen carefully and then talk with them openly, presenting various options and offering clarity and assistance through the decision-making process.

Choices may be a matter of religious or spiritual preference. Sometimes it’s a personal request, like asking if it’s okay to bury Aunt Norma with the handkerchief she carried on her wedding day. Or it could be logistical, such as how to host a large family at a central gathering place. Other decisions may involve legal issues or regulations, as with military funerals.

Charles Dannel, fifth generation owner of Dannel Funeral Home, reassures families that there’s no one right way

to do things, that arrangements can include a mix of traditional practices along with the family’s creative input. “Once we present information and options – sometimes compromises –families can more easily plan for final tributes that encompass everyone’s personal preferences and help begin the healing process.”

Dannel Funeral Home directors bring experience, knowledge and an attention to detail. So you can hear a simple solution to a potential problem, see memorabilia lovingly displayed, be guided through a service with thoughtful and confident direction, and receive practical advice that relieves financial concerns. For families who have come together in grief, the comfort of gentle expertise and experience is a welcome gift of affirmation and strength.

We welcome the chance to help your family. Find out more at www.dannelfuneralhome.com

Families Sometimes Disagree When Planning a Funeral

It’s understandable. People want to make the “right” decisions. Consider the professional team at Dannel Funeral Home. They will provide thoughtful options – sometimes compromises – to ease the burden and help your family create a loving, meaningful tribute. To honor your loved one. To encompass varying viewpoints. To come together and begin healing.

Take care of your family. We’ll take care of everything else.

Dannel Funeral Home is now owned by Charles Dannel, fifth generation exemplifying leadership and community service.

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME

When it Comes to Home Health Services, Count on TMC to Help You Recover in Comfort

Courtesy Texoma Medical Center

Are you recovering from an illness or injury? Do you have a new diagnosis or need ongoing medical care?

TMC Home Health can bring personalized assistance right to your door.

TMC Home Health serves the residents of Grayson County and works closely with your physician and family to ensure you receive the individualized care you need to manage a medical condition at home. Services are available 24/7.

The TMC Home Health Care Team provides an assessment to determine the appropriate services for you. Services Include the Following:

• Specialty-trained nurses who teach you how to manage your condition and care for yourself with a goal of helping you to live as independently as possible and reduce your risk for re-hospitalization. They also assess home and medication safety and ensure you are taking your medications as prescribed by your doctor. Nurses may also provide services such as wound care, IV therapy, catheter, ostomy, injections and lab work, depending on what’s needed.

• Medical social workers to counsel you and your family, connect you with support groups and community resources and help you to apply for additional assistance as needed.

• Home Health Aides who provide assistance and support with daily activities, such as walking, dressing and personal care.

• Physical therapists to help you regain functional mobility and recover from cardiac, neurological or orthopedic conditions, as well as from traumatic injuries.

• Occupational therapists to help improve your ability to perform daily tasks, such as eating, dressing and personal hygiene.

• Speech therapists who provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment for a variety of speech, language and swallowing disorders, resulting from head injury, stroke or viral disease.

For Medicare patients, some requirements are needed to qualify for home healthcare. For example, your physician must order home healthcare services, and patients must be homebound and require the services of a nurse or physical therapist.

TMC Home Health has passed rigorous evaluation and is accredited by The Joint Commission, certified by Medicare, and licensed by the state of Texas.

Physicians are on the medical staff of Texoma Medical Center, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Texoma Medical Center. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website.

To learn more about TMC Home Health Services, call 903-416-5500 or toll free at 800-436-7577.

To see all of our services, visit our website at www.texomamedicalcenter.net.

DIDN’T WANT TO LIVE

By Nancy Conner

Over the past ten years, I’ve had multiple surgeries, a massive heart attack, been placed on a feeding tube, struggle with severe anxiety and have fibromyalgia. Sometimes I would be so sick I would cancel my doctor’s appointments and stay at home. I was tired of going to them as most doctors don’t take the time to know you. I just didn’t want to get out and live.

A year ago, I asked God to send someone that could help me as I felt I was headed to see my daddy in heaven. That next week, I went to see my doctor and she said, “Nancy, I can’t do much more for you but I’ve got you hooked up with something that will be better for you. It’s called the Pathways Palliative Supportive Care program. They are a good group of people that know what they are doing.” It was the answer to my prayer.

When I started with Pathways, the nurse actually came to my house to explain how they would work to help me feel better. At different times I’ve had visits at home from a doctor, nurses, social worker and spiritual counselor. Each time they called or visited to check on me, they focused on me and really listened to how I felt. They showed me kindness and respect. They even helped my caregiver too just by being there.

It took a few months of adjusting my medications and understanding my symptoms to help me feel better. And now, it’s like a Miracle, it feels like Christmas every morning – I can get out of bed, get dressed and feel good. I’m not afraid now, not in so much pain and it is a lot less stressful. The better I feel the more I want to live.

I encourage doctors to not overlook the value of the Pathways Program to

those of us that are sick or older. People should call Pathways when no one seems to help them and they feel like giving up. Ya’ll have given me hope. In fact, I told daddy to keep holding on, it may be longer before I join him!

www.homehospice.org

Supportive Care

Stephen P. Courtney, M.D.

Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

Dr. Stephen Courtney is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon and the founder of the Advanced Spine Center in Plano, TX. Dr. Courtney has been Chief of Orthopedic Surgery at the Medical Center of Plano and a member of the Hospital’s Executive and Operating Room Committees.

Dr. Courtney is a respected orthopedic spine surgeon who focuses on disorders of the neck and back. His work ethic, outstanding outcomes, and personable approach to patient care have earned him a reputation as one of the best spine surgeons in Texas. He has expanded his reach and has improved the quality of life for patients across the country. Dr. Courtney has developed 9 product lines, and has obtained 9 patents and 14 trademarks on its spine related products. He has been honored with numerous awards and recognitions.

Dr. Courtney is dedicated to educating not just himself and his colleagues but his patients as well. He is known for his straight-forward, honest approach which puts his patients at ease, trusting him to perform highly technical operations that will help them restore their quality of life. He knows the single most important person in the treatment process is the patient.

When Dr. Courtney is not with his patients you can find him enjoying time with his wife and five children, hitting the trails on his mountain bike, or perfecting his Cajun cooking.

OPEN COMMUNICATION WITH YOUR CHILD —AGES 5 TO 13

By Georgia Smith-Lyle, MA, LPC-S

Trust and dependence upon the parent or caregiver begin the moment a child is born! As your child grows, consistency with positive parenting skills will set the tone for a closely connected relationship between child and parent. By the time your child reaches school age (5 or 6 years old) they will have hopefully formed a relationship with you based on trust.

Children’s psychosocial development from the ages of 5 to 13 begins with more self-awareness, awareness of oth-

ers and the world around them. They become more inquisitive and adventurous. Their increased self-awareness will highlight their gifts, talents and challenges.

Encouragement and confidence are very important because comparison of themselves to others will increase. They will listen to conversations others their age (or older) will have and be inquisitive. Some things other children talk about they will be familiar with, while other things they will not understand. The world around them is enlarging and so is the knowledge and aware-

ness of several topics. Below is a list of true questions they may be having but have not yet verbalized to you.

Do you think they will come to you and talk about what they are thinking or will another child be their first go-to person? Sometimes, another child will be someone they talk to first. However, if you have built a positive, encouraging relationship with them, then they will frequently come to you first. If your child believes they will disappoint or anger you, they will probably not be willing to communicate with you unless you

have shown disappointment or anger expressed correctly. Expressing your anger in the right way is important, i.e., without yelling or criticizing.

*Mommy, am I pretty?

*Daddy, am I strong?

*Am I smart?

*Am I fat?

*Am I stupid?

Set the stage early for a healthy foundation of trust by being open to listen, validating their feelings, never making them feel unimportant or unintelligent, encourage instead of criticize. No matter what your opinion may be as a parent, still be willing to listen. They will trust your leadership and love for them far more if they feel safe to express their thoughts. You can still say your thoughts and be the parent without demeaning or getting angry where they are afraid to communicate with you. The positive foundation you set when they are younger will carry you and them through the “rocky” teenage years with less tension and more respect and understanding. Let me end with this short example. A friend of mine has a little girl who is about 8 or 9 years old. Last year her daughter told her that a girlfriend liked a little boy. Not thinking much about it, teasingly the mom commented, “Well you better not go and get yourself a boyfriend” or something along those lines. The mom was teasing her daughter and although she may not want her to have a boyfriend at that young age, my friend knows that little crushes do happen and she is alright with that.

*Why does ______not like me?

*My teacher likes _______ more than me.

*I’m not very smart like ______.

*Where did I come from?

*I heard ________talking about sex. What does “sex” mean?

*Why was I born a girl?

*Why was I born a boy?

*Someone likes me. Can I have a boyfriend?

*I think _________is pretty and funny. Can she be my girlfriend?

*Why do _______’s parents not live together?

*Will you and daddy/mommy ever get a divorce?

However, my friend did not realize her daughter took the comment seriously! This year a little boy started liking her daughter and her daughter had a little crush on him too. The mom suspected it but her daughter wasn’t openly telling her. One day her daughter’s girlfriend told her mom that her daughter liked this one boy but was afraid to tell her. When my friend casually asked her daughter if she liked this little boy, her daughter at first denied it. Her mom then revealed someone told her she liked the little boy and it was okay to tell her. Her daughter broke down crying and said, “I do like him, mommy, but I was afraid you would be mad at me if I told you.” This hit home for my friend. She realized her casual, teasing words last year stuck with her daughter and caused her to not be open with her mom. The mom was crushed and learned a valuable lesson about choosing words wisely, and making a safe place for her child to talk.

There are so many things children need to be able to tell their parents. Make a safe place for them to speak their minds and ask you questions before they go and ask others who may not give them the same safe advice or guidance.

Georgia Smith-Lyle, MA, LPC-S, is in private practice as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas providing counseling for children, adolescents, adults, marriage and family. She has authored two books and is a public speaker. Georgia may be reached at 469-855-0256 or via email gpsmith7@aol.com. counselingbygeorgia.com.

Radiofrequency ablation treatment now available for spin al tumor s

Minimally invasive technology, close to home

Brian Rose, MD, FAAOS

Orthopedic & Spine Surgeon

A treatment system specifically used for treating painful tumors that have spread to the spine from cancer in other parts of the body is now available at TMC. Orthopedic Spine Surgeon at Texoma Medical Center, Brian Rose, MD, FAAOS, says he has been treating patients for about two years.

The treatment serves a dual purpose. Dr. Rose states, “Radiofrequency ablation enables us to treat tumors using a small incision. Once the tumor is destroyed, we strengthen and stabilize the spine by filling in the affected areas with a cement-like material. The procedure usually takes less than one hour and following a short time in recovery, patients can go home.”

Dr Rose says that the person ’ s pain level is greatly reduced. For older patients with other health conditions, the minimal side effects are a plus. This often allows the patient to proceed with radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy without severe pain

Enhancing treatment options for patients

The new treatment is an extension of kyphoplasty, a procedure already performed at Texoma Medical Center for patients with spinal pain due to compression fractures that result from osteoporosis “Kyphoplasty is a very similar procedure. The difference is that no ablation is needed The patient’s vertebrae need support, so we fill any fractures or pockets with the cementlike substance, and patients can get relief fairly quickly,” says Dr Rose “Many patients who previously rated their pain as a ‘10’ tell us it dropped to a ‘2’. It’s exciting to be able to offer these solutions. We are trained to be as minimally invasive as possible, which equates to minimized pain and quicker recovery for the patient. These two procedures fall right in line with that ” ■

Individual results may vary There are risks associated with any surgical procedure. Talk with your doctor about these risks to find out if minimally invasive surgery is right for you

The neurosurgeons and orthopedic and spine surgeons at TMC specialize in the nerves, brain and spine. For more information, visit www.texomamedicalcenter.net/neurology. To find a doctor, call Direct Doctors Plus ® at 903.416.DOCS (3627).

Brian Rose, MD Texoma Orthopedic and Spine 903.465.2190

Each spring the North Georgia Town of Augusta comes alive as the Masters Golf Tournament comes to town. Eyes from around the globe are focused on Augusta National Golf Club as the best golfers from around the world take to the links, while lucky fans with Masters Golf Tournament Badges watch from the second cut of the fairway.

Masters Badges are available in an annual lottery. However, Badges are limited in number, making Badges or Masters Tickets hard to find. Golden Tickets has been securing Masters Golf Badges for more than 30 years, ensuring your time at the Masters is focused on golf and fun. Golden Tickets is also your choice for Masters Hospitality, which operates the 1018 Club, a world-class Masters Hospitality House just a stone’s throw from the main gates of the Augusta National Golf Club.

The Masters Tournament and Augusta National’s history go hand in hand. In 1931, Bobby Jones began to transform the old indigo plantation into a private club, with the idea of hosting a major golf tournament. The first Masters Tournament was in 1934 with Horton Smith taking the top spot. Unfortunately, he didn’t get the famous Masters Tournament Green Jacket, as it didn’t get awarded until 1949.

Golden Tickets knows the Masters Tournament and Augusta like no one else. We temporarily move from our

YOUR PASSPORT TO THE MASTERS

Courtesy Golden Tickets

Texas offices to Augusta Georgia during the months leading up to the Masters, and have staff that is permanently located next door to Augusta National Golf Club. Golden Tickets is your one-stop Masters Golf Tournament with access to Masters Golf Badges, Masters Golf Hospitality at the 1018 Club, and Masters Golf Housing at Diamond Home Rentals.

The 1018 Club is a 9,000-square-foot oasis that makes a truly one-of-a-kind experience. As a 1018 Club guest, you’re in for a Masters experience like no other in Augusta. The food, the drinks, the service, and all the little extras represent the style, sophistication, and southern charm for which the tournament is famous.

From a relaxing massage and a cold towel to a fine cigar, it’s the little things that separate our service from other clubs. 1018 Club guests enjoy the Masters Tournament in the heart of the action, or back at the Club with their feet up. No worries. You won’t miss a second of play with HDTVs broadcasting the tournament from one of our five luxurious bar areas, and our 22 televisions. And that’s just the beginning.

Now let’s talk about celebrity Chef Kent Rathbun. A true Texas legend, he is equally well known nationally. From presidential inaugural balls, to the premier events in football and golf, to network TV appearances with celebrities of every stripe, Kent is one of the country’s go-to chefs when the focus is on great food and great times.

He began his professional career as an apprentice at Lo Bonne Auberge, a five-star French restaurant in Kansas City. From there he worked under

some of the best chefs in the country with stints at Mr. B’s in New Orleans, Kansas City’s American Restaurant and Milanos, Dallas’ Mansion on Turtle Creek, The Landmark, and the Warwick Melrose Hotel.

Kent established Abacus in 1997, winning just about every award in sight, including Bon Appétit’s Best of the Year. He was also awarded Four Diamonds by Mobil. Soon after, he added Jaspers to his resume, which featured the best of “gourmet backyard cuisine,” and another slew of awards followed. Not content to sit still––anyone whose has been around Kent knows his mind and body are in constant motion––he created a catering operation and his own exclusive line of products, designed for home cooks.

After you’ve packed away some delicious food and drink at the 1018 Club from the celebrity chef, you’ll need somewhere to retire for a good night’s rest.

Diamond Home Rentals specializes in Masters Housing. We work very hard to ensure a complete and satisfying experience for homeowners and golf patrons looking for Masters Private Housing. Unlike other events, it is an accepted and normal tradition for local residents to rent their homes during Masters Week. For guests and corporations attending the Masters, having a private home to stay in offers many benefits and advantages.

If you plan to attend the upcoming Masters Golf Tournament, we’re here to help you sleep better! With over 20 years experience in Masters Housing, we strive to put the right homeowners and leasers together, making the Masters Private Home Rental experience a successful and enjoyable one for all.

Let Golden Tickets be your one-stop spot for the 2019 Masters Tournament! Contact us via our website www. goldentickets.com - www.the1018club.com - www.diamondhomerentals.com or by phone at 800-288-2461.

REVERSING HEART DISEASE NATURALLY WITH WHOLE FOOD

Nobel prize was awarded for discovery of Nitric Oxide’s role in cardiac health. In this article, we will discuss how we can naturally prevent heart disease and even reverse the deadly heart disease by maintaining production of Nitric Oxide with food and natural supplements.

Heart disease is the #1 killer of Americans and over 650,000 Americans are killed each year from it. Nearly, 800,000 Americans suffer from heart attack each year and there’s one heart attack every 30 seconds in America. Even 65% of children between the ages of 12 to 14 have early signs of atherosclerosis in their blood vessels. Studies have also shown that fatty streaks are visible in fetal arteries and worse with pregnant mothers with high cholesterol.

So many Americans are suffering from heart disease which can be prevented and be reversed with nutrition and lifestyle changes. The key to preventing and reversing the heart disease is to avoid foods that insults our vessels and consume the food that has the ability to heal them. One of the most important ways to protect our cardiovascular system is to increase nitric oxide in our body.

Nitric oxide is produced from the endothelium, the single layer of cells that are the inner lining of the arteries. Nitric oxide is the key to reducing all types of vascular disease such as heart disease, strokes, and other chronic disease. It also plays a critical role in anti-aging.

What is Nitric Oxide?

Nitric oxide is a powerful messenger molecule in our body that signals

arteries to relax and expand, allowing more blood to flow, triggers immune cells to kill bacteria and cancer cells reducing the risk of chronic disease, and help brain cells to communicate reducing the risk of dementia.

The role of Nitric Oxide:

• Prevent high blood pressure

• Keeps arteries flexible and prevent formation of plaque

• Lower cholesterol and reduce formation of blood clots

• Reduce risk of diabetes

• Reduces pain from arthritis

• Protects bones from osteoporosis

• Protects skin from sun damage

• Increase blood flow to the brain and increase cognitive function

• Reduce risk of dementia

• Reverse erectile dysfunction

• Stimulate production of stem cells

Aging and Nitric Oxide production:

As we age, we lose the ability to produce nitric oxide from our endothelium. By age 40, we lose 50% of ability to produce nitric oxide and by age 60, we lose 85% of ability to produce nitric oxide from our endothelium. This is part of aging process as we damage our arteries as we age. Is this mean we are doomed and bound to develop heart disease and other vascular disease?

Fortunately, there are other methods of producing Nitric Oxide. Our body can produce nitric oxide from nitrates and nitrites found naturally in our foods. Dark green leafy vegetables, such as kale, spinach, arugula, swiss chard, beet green and beet are good sources of nitrate and nitrite. Other good sources are broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, bok choy, and carrots.

When we chew these foods, friendly bacteria on our tongue reacts with saliva to convert the nitrate to nitrite. In our stomach, nitrites are converted to nitric oxide where it goes into the blood stream. Once in the blood stream, nitric oxide functions as a messenger to relax the arteries and causes the vasodilation and allows increase in blood flow and circulation.

Because friendly bacteria on the tongue helps produce nitric oxide, it is important to maintain healthy oral health. Avoid using mouthwash as it kills the healthy bacteria that are necessary to produce nitric oxide. Try using baking soda as a tooth paste and oral rinse, instead.

Here is how you can reverse heart disease with nutrition

1. Eat fist size serving of dark green leafy vegetables with few drops of balsamic vinegar or any other vinegar six times spread throughout the day. Dark green leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, swiss chard, arugula, beet greens, and beets have high concentration of

Douglas Won, MD

Orthopedic Regenerative Medicine Specialist

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgeon

Dr. Douglas Won, a co-founder of Whole Green Living is a dual fellowship-trained physician and Board-certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgeons. Dr. Won is an innovator of Stem Cell Technology for over 12 years for Orthopedic and Spine conditions. He is active in the research and development of innovative stem cell therapy as well as spine care and in using advancing technology to create personalized treatment plans for variety of orthopedic conditions and cervical, thoracic and lumbar disorders.

Dr. Won and Whole Green Living help others achieve optimal health through the life-changing power of whole food plant-based nutrition, exercise, avoidance of toxins, and restoration practices. They’re devoted to helping you along your personal journey to develop and sustain this healthy lifestyle free of many chronic diseases and conditions threatening quality and length of life.

nitrates that promotes the formation of nitric oxide (NO), the most powerful vasodilator.

2. No OIL. Oils causes vasoconstriction and raises blood pressure. The oil also causes damage to endothelium, inner lining of arteries, where nitric oxide is produced.

3. Chew your food. Bacteria on your tongue needs to interact with the food. Avoid juicing as they quickly add calories and it doesn’t contain any fiber.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Achieve Optimal Health with Plant Base Nutrition

For more information about how to prevent & reverse chronic disease naturally and activate your stem cells to repair and regenerate, check out www.NeoGenStemCell.com. We also offer free seminar on nutrition second Saturday of every month at TreeHouse Dallas.

4. Eat starches, non-starchy vegetables and fruits. Starches are important for satiation so that you do not get hungry. Starches are root vegetables, beans, peas, lentils, squash and 100% whole grains.

5. Avoid all foods high in fat including butters, coconut, olives, nut and nut butter.

6. Avoid caffeinated coffee as they are vasoconstrictors

7. Avoid processed sugars.

8. Avoid all animal foods, meat, dairy, and eggs.

9. Avoid salt in cooking and at the table

Cancer and Immune System:

Nitric Oxide is a messenger that signals our immune system to protect the body against bacteria and cancer cell growth. Nitric oxide has been shown to protect the skin from sun damage that can lead to cancer and slow down the growth of other cancerous tumors. Nitric oxide is also released by immune system to fight against bacteria.

Diabetes:

Patients with diabetes are at high risk of developing vascular disease such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, kidney disease and blindness. Both type 1 and type 2 diabetics suffer from endothelium dysfunction as the inner lining of the artery is damaged. Therefore, diabetics produce less nitric oxide which further damages the blood vessel, which leads to heart disease and other vascular disease. Nitric oxide can improve vascular function and reduce the progression and complications of both heart disease and diabetes.

Supplementation:

Dark green leafy vegetables are one of the best sources of nitrates, but there are also supplements that promote production of nitric oxide; however, not all of these supplements are equal. Look for supplements that are all natural and organic, no additives or fillers or any other stimulants which are vasoconstrictor.

Tanveer

Douglas Won, M.D.

DFW’s Premier Orthopedic Regenerative Specialist & Minimally Invasive Spine Surgeon

Voted Best Regenerative Specialist & Spine Surgeon in Dallas and Collin County

Dr. Douglas Won specializes in:

• Orthopedic Stem Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine

• Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

• Laser Spine Surgery

• Interventional Pain Procedures

Before considering knee replacement, hip replacement, rotator cuff surgery, or spine surgery, get a second opinion. You May be able to avoid the surgery with Stem Cell Therapy.

Free MRI Review available.

For more information, call 972-445-9443 or visit NeoGenStemCell.com & LaserSpineDFW.com

LOCATIONS:

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

4301 N. MacArthur Blvd., Ste. 101 Irving, TX 75038

Monterey Car Week: A First-Timer’s View

Tuckers were one of the featured marques at this year’s event. There were 13 models on display.

Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is world-famous for the quantity and quality of vehicles on display each August on the 18th fairway of the golf course and country club of the same name. For me, a first time visitor, the sights, sounds and general ambiance of everything taking place on the Monterey Peninsula during my days there was, quite simply, sensory overload. By the time my visit was over, it felt almost routine to drive the peninsula and see one exotic car after another. I had flown into San Jose on Tuesday of Car Week. An indication of just how different these days were going to be happened during the very first hours of my visit as I was driving along Highway 1 from the airport toward Monterey, I passed a 1962 Aston Martin DB5. I had never before seen one underway on the road.

First stop: the Embassy Suites hotel in Seaside to visit Automobilia Monterey. This event features vendors offering only original vintage posters, photographs, rallye plates, as well as badges and pins, mascots and hood ornaments, signs, original art, desk and display pieces, scale models, literature and books, signed items, posters, stamps, post cards, mosaics, unique scarves and ties. No reproductions are sold here. It’s billed as the largest automobilia show in America with over 45 international dealers in this single venue. A pleasant surprise greeted me. Up to now I’d only “met” Peter Bourassa on the pages of car publications, where Peter had related about his long ago fast ride in a supercharged four-speed Avanti. As publisher of Motorsports Marketing

Story and photos by Lewis Schucart

Resources (MMR), Peter was set up in the Embassy Suites ballroom promoting his online motorsports marketing website and helping to introduce a new magazine about automobilia. So we got to meet and talk in person.

Then, on to the nearby WeatherTech Laguna Seca racetrack, site of the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion during Car Week. Practice and qualifying began on Thursday and Friday and racing on the road course continuing through the weekend. No Studebakers or Avantis at the race, but I did run into Avanti owner and former AOAI board member Peter Miller and his wife, Cameron. We watched the sport cars wind their way through the cork screw while we visited. Other venues I attended included a few of the many collector car auctions: Gooding and Company; RM Sotheby’s; Mecum; or Bonhams’ Quail Lodge auction, to name just a few. More sensory overload.

Friday of Car Week, after more auction car dreaming, I was able to meet Renée Crist, curator of collections at LeMay-America’s Car Museum. She and her husband and I shared a pizza dinner in an Italian restaurant in neighboring Pacific Grove where television personality and car guy Jay Leno often dines when in town. No Jay sighting during our evening there.

More auctions were on tap for Saturday–the day before the Concours–although the big event for me was scoring an invitation to the Automotive Fine Arts Society’s opening See MONTEREY, page 42

Monterey, from page 41

reception. The AFAS is composed of a small group of painters and sculptors of automotive fine art who are also automotive enthusiasts and who portray various aspects of the automobile in their fine art. The exhibit has been sponsored by the Lincoln Division of the Ford Motor Company since 1996, thanks to the efforts of John Clinard, an automotive journalist and retired public relations executive at Ford.

And of course, Sunday, (August 26) was the day. I joined the thousands of spectators who traveled along 17 Mile Drive to descend upon the green lawns of the Pebble Beach Golf Club. The day started early for me at 4 a.m. in order to beat the crowds for I wanted to arrive on time at 5 a.m. for Dawn Patrol, the annual event sponsored by Hagerty Insurance Co. This early hour is when virtually all the cars invited to the concours drive through the predawn darkness onto the golf course’s 18th green. Hagerty provides coffee and donuts for Dawn Patrol attendees, and a coveted cap. These distinctive caps are given away–the only way to acquire one–unless you search eBay

Above, and right: All manner of sports cars competed throughout the weekend in the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion.

Left: Among the many collector car auctions was Gooding & Company, above, on the Pebble Beach grounds. RM Sothby’s and Mecom auctions were held in Monterey.

and pay upwards of $145 from an enterprising Dawn Patrol participant.

And no: I’m keeping my cap.

Tuckers were one of the featured marques at this year’s event. There were 13 models on display, most likely

the most ever gathered together in once place since they had left the factory.

Another Sunday highlight was Wayne Carini’s 1954 Studebaker Commander Starliner on the lawn. Carini is the host of Chasing Classic Cars on the Velocity cable television network. Cari-

ni’s This Starliner is the first post World War II Studebaker to be invited to the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. And it got even better when, later in the day, the Stude drove past the reviewing stand en-route to picking up its second in the Postwar Preservation class trophy.

A Best of Show ribbon was placed on the deep blue bodywork of a 1937 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Touring Berlinetta. It was a match meant to be. The Alfa won its class making it a contender for Best of Show. It also took home two other awards: the Charles A. Chayne Trophy and the JB and Dorothy Nethercutt Most Elegant Closed Car award.

The Pebble Beach Concours gathered 209 cars from 17 countries and 31 states on the 18th fairway of Pebble Beach Golf Links. This year, the Concours also raised an incredible $1.8 million for charity. Through the Pebble Beach Company Foundation, the primary charitable partner of the Concours, these funds will benefit over 80 local charities, impacting the lives of more than 10,000 children annually in Monterey County.

Next up for me was the driving north, a bit over 800 miles to Tacoma Washington to attend the international meets of the Avanti Owners Association and the Studebaker Drivers Club, and the opportunity to see the first production 1963 Avanti. It could only have been better if I was driving north in my own Avanti.

evening’s

OPPOSITE: A 1956 Packard Caribbean drives onto the display field at

TOP, ABOVE: Saturday morning at the Seaside, California city park, Hagerty and Classic Motorsports magazine sponsored Concours d’Lemons, a gathering of nontraditional and every-day drivers competing for the worst designation. And yes, even an East German Trabant, above, a two-stroke oil burner was on display!

Saturday

opening automotive art exhibition reception, held in a temporary structure on the 18th links of Pebble Beach.

dawn.

COOKING CLASSY IN A CINCH....

Harold and Miriam Moore

Miriam and Harold Moore, from Rockwall, Texas, have been married for 30 years, and have four children and three grandchildren. Harold, a plumber by trade, enjoys making fabulous dinners for Miriam, playing guitar, wearing kilts, fly fishing and craft beer. Miriam enjoys singing with Harold and quilt making. After Miriam was diagnosed with diabetes in 2011, she and Harold have strived to avoid eating processed foods, and have discovered a real love for fresh vegetables, natural and whole foods.

Ingredients:

• Grilled chicken

• Steamed Broccoli Alfredo Sauce:

• One 8 oz. block cream cheese

• 1/2 stick grass fed butter

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan

• 2 large cloves garlic

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Melt all ingredients in a double boiler. Use a saucepan with boiling water and a metal bowl over top if you don’t have a double boiler.

Layer with Alfredo on the plate, pile broccoli on top with chicken. Add additional Parmesan if desired. You’ll never miss the pasta!

Chicken Alfredo without Pasta!

Ingredients:

• 4 links Italian sausage, removed from casing and browned with 1/2 cup onion and 2 large cloves garlic.

• 32 ounces organic chicken bone broth

• 1 cup chopped fresh carrots

• 1 cup chopped celery

• 1 cup torn kale

• 3-4 chopped baby Bella mushrooms

• 1 chopped red bell pepper

• 1 sliced zucchini

• 1 can cannelloni beans

• 1/2 cup washed and rinsed quinoa

Fresh or dried basil and oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

Add all ingredients except zucchini and fresh basil and oregano into a large stockpot and bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer until carrots are cooked thoroughly. Add zucchini and fresh herbs and cook another minute.

Serve into a large bowl.

Minestrone

UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS M.D. ANDERSON HOSPITAL AND TUMOR INSTITUTE TRAINED PHYSICIANS

THOC P.A.

We do all types of infusion and accept ALL INSURANCE as well as Medicare, Medicaid, Secure Horizon, Molina and Superior Texas Hematology Oncology Centers

NOW ACCEPTING ALL MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLANS

Dr. Dennis Birenbaum | Dr. Eugene Wyszynski

COMPLETE INFUSION CENTER

DALLAS 10 Medical Parkway

Plaza III, Ste. 106

Dallas, TX 75234

“You may find that your 2nd or 3rd opinion should have been your first.”

DENNIS BIRENBAUM, MD

Dr. Birenbaum founded the Arlington Cancer Treatment Center in 1981. He founded the Texas Hematology Center, PA in 1997. He is the founder, Medical Director, and CEO of Patients Comprehensive Cancer Center (2001) & McKinney Regional Cancer Center (2007). Dr. Birenbaum trained at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Institute for 5 years, 3 years as a Hematology/Oncology fellow and 2 years as facility professor. His private practice in Hematology/ Oncology has been in the Dallas/Fort Worth area since 1979.

AREAS OF CLINICAL INTEREST:

• Gastrointestinal Tumors

• Melanoma, Sarcoma

• Breast Cancer

• Lymphoma

CREDENTIALED AT SEVERAL LOCAL HOSPITALS:

• Centennial Medical Center

• Medical Center of McKinney

• Methodist Richardson Medical Center

• Dallas Medical Center

• Specialty Hospital

• Kindred Hospital

PERSONAL INTERESTS:

• Born and raised in Dallas, TX

• Attended SMU (Southern Methodist University)

• Father of 2 sons

• Owns six dogs

• Loves traveling and golf

• Avid collector of arts and antiques

Dennis Birenbaum, MD and Dr. Wyszynski, MD, DO are M.D. Anderson trained hematologists/oncologists.

Dr. Wyszynski, MD, DO also trained at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia, PA.

They may be reached at the following location:

EUGENE J. WYSZYNSKI, DO

Dr. Wyszynski joins the Texas Hematology and Oncology Centers after many years of successful private medical practice in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Dr. Wyszynski completed his internship and residency at John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital in Stanford, New Jersey. He followed these with a number of Fellowships including one in Hematology/Oncology at the prestigious M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX, and two years at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia, PA. Dr. Wysznski is well known for his quality of care and the personal interest he takes in his patients. He is very active in many professional societies and investigative trials.

BOARD CERTIFICATIONS:

• American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine: Hematology/ Oncology-Certified: 8/24/2007

• American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine

PROFESSIONAL SOCIETIES:

• American Osteopathic Association

• ASCO

• Texas Medical Association

• Dallas County Medical Association

CLINICAL CANCER INVESTIGATIVE TRIALS:

• Central Pennsylvania Oncology Group Protocal

• Eastern Cooperative Group

• Southwest Oncology Group

PERSONAL INTERESTS:

• Married and father of 2 children

• Enjoys traveling and spending time with family

• Active in many hobbies

3 REASONS AN INCREASING NUMBER OF YOUNGER PEOPLE ARE GETTING CATARACT SURGERY

Courtesy Key-Whitman Eye Center

Are your eyes feeling like they have aged faster than their years? You might have early cataracts (clouding of the clear lens in the eye). If that’s the case, you are not alone. More people are having cataract surgery earlier in life than ever before. We asked Key-Whitman Eye Center’s President and Chief Surgeon Jeffrey Whitman what this is the case.

No1: Cataracts can develop at any age.

Even though most individuals develop cataracts as they get older, that is not the case for everyone. Dr. Whitman explains, “Younger people can develop cataracts. In fact, some babies are born with cataracts that can be corrected with surgery. You can also get cataracts due to trauma to the eye or from taking certain medications like prednisone or steroids. We’re also seeing more cases of cataracts in peo-

ple in their 40s and 50s due to environmental reasons, possibly too much exposure to UV light from the sun.”

No2: Cataract surgery is faster and safer than ever before.

There’s great news! Thanks to advanced technology, cataract surgery has never been safer than it is today. Good-bye, scalpel. Say, “hello” to high-tech, computer-guided laser.

“In the past, cataract surgery was very basic. You had the eye surgeon, the scalpel and the eye. Since the surgery was all human controlled, it took more time and effort to remove the old lens, which could be much more invasive. Now, with the advent of the femtosecond laser, cataract surgery has become safer and more efficient. Not only do we have the laser to help with the most delicate and microscopic parts of the surgery, but the computer control of that laser gives us the most

accurate surgical results we’ve ever had,” says Dr. Whitman.

No3: High-tech lens implants could radically reduce the need for glasses and contacts. In the early days of cataract surgery, the surgeon had to remove the cloudy lens and implant a replacement lens for distance vision. Today, we have high-technology lens implant options that can help with near, middle and distance vision. In fact, many people end up with better vision than they’ve had in years.

According to Dr. Whitman, “As with any surgery, we can’t literally turn back time, but for those patients who have been very nearsighted, farsighted and dependent on glasses for most of their lives, cataract surgery can be a revelation. With the high-tech lens implants available today, we can give most patients very good quality dis-

tance, intermediate and close up vision and often get them out of glasses and contacts the majority of the time.

“Even patients with lousy vision who don’t have cataracts ask me, ‘Hey doc, I’m tired of my glasses. Can I have cataract surgery with those high-tech lens implants, so I don’t have to wear my glasses 100 percent of the time?’ Depending on the patient, cataract surgery may help them get out of glasses for most of what they do.”

Find out if you’re a good candidate for cataract surgery today.

If your vision is getting progressively worse, don’t delay. See your eye doctor to find out if cataracts – or another eye condition – are to blame. “The sooner we diagnose what’s causing your vision problems, the sooner we can help you see better again. Why wait?”

Dr. Whitman says.

From left to right are: Kimberly S. Warren, M.D.; Falsal, M.D.; and Sadof Razi ElHaffar, O.D.

Get Quality Healthcare, Right From Home

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