Texoma Area Living Well Magazine November-December 2019

TEXOMA AREA

COSTNER

At Texoma Orthopedic and Spine, we are dedicated to providing our patients with the highest quality treatment of Orthopedic injuries and disorders for patients at all stages of life. Our physicians, Mark Young, MD; Brian T. Rose, MD; C. Craig Cranford, DPM; and Benjamin Wilson, MD, believe in improving quality 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 variety of orthopedic conditions, including 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:

• Hip to Total Joint replacement

• ACL Reconstruction

Spotlight on our Surgeons

Brian T. Rose, MD, FAAOS Orthopedic Surgery of the Spine

Surgical Services:

• Spinal Fusion

• Kyphoplasty

• Total Joint Replacement including Knee and Shoulder

• Fracture Repair

• Carpal Tunnel Release

• Rotator Cuff Repair

• Arthroscopic wrist, knee and shoulder surgery

• Cervical Disk Replacement

• Microdiskectomy

• Spinal Decompression

• Interlaminar Stabilization

C. Craig Cranford, DPM, MPH, FACFAS Foot and Ankle Surgery

Surgical Services:

• Foot and Ankle Trauma and Reconstruction

• Fracture repair

• Flat Foot Reconstruction

• Total Ankle Replacements

• Bunion Repair

• Hammertoe Repair

Benjamin Wilson, MD, FAAOS Orthopedic Surgery

Surgical Services:

• Total Joint Replacement including Hip, Knee and Shoulder

• Fracture Care and Repair

• Hand Trauma and Soft Tissue conditions

• Arthroscopic Knee and Shoulder Surgery

• Joint replacement in small joints

• Charcot reconstruction

• Foot and Ankle arthritic conditions

• Plantar fasciitis

• Achilles Tendon Repair

Therapy Services:

• Orthopedic Care

• Manual Physical Therapy

• Manipulation based therapy

• Dry needling

• Cupping

• Individualized exercise programs

• Sports and injury prevention programs

• Vestibular rehabilitation

• Balance and fall prevention programs

• Pre- and Post-Operative therapy

• ACL Reconstruction

Taylor Denney, PT, DPT

Julie Harbison, PTA

Jared Bourne, PT, DPT

Natalie, Jeremy and Champ Roberts Mayor David and

“We Chose WNJ!”

Grant Craig Pastor Terry Barnett

Mignon Plyler

KTHE CONSUMMATE

STORYTELLER

evin Costner likes to take his time and tell a great story. He gravitates toward the kind of epic tale that takes time to flesh out. “I still don’t know limitations. I think you are limited only if you don’t have a great story. If you do, it’s like you’ve got this great secret in your pocket; a twist or an ending where you just feel, they’re going to love this,” says the 64-year-old Oscar-winning actor/director.

In this issue, we catch up with the perennial star. Known for directing one of the most acclaimed movies of all time, Dances with Wolves, his career includes over 40 film and television credits. Equally at home in front or behind the camera, the epic actor recently dove into Netflix’s streaming waters of success with the long-form film The Highwaymen. He plays Frank Hamer, one of two officers tasked with capturing Bonnie and Clyde. It’s a role where Costner shines. He’s equally impressive in the series Yellowstone, as hardened ranching patriarch John Dutton, which just wrapped up its second season on the Paramount Network. Both roles encompass the type of fraught journeys and character development that Costner enjoys. Read more about this consummate storyteller’s journey (and why he avoids the gym) inside.

Speaking of stories, we have many inside to engage you as you thumb through this magazine during the holiday season. One of them, “Survival Guide for a Stress-Free Holiday Season,” offers up tips on how to get through the hustle and bustle of the next few weeks with less stress and more joy. Maximize ways to ease your stress to keep the ‘happy’ in your holidays!

As the weather turns cooler, don’t let gloomy winter days get your kids down. Take the fun indoors and try out some of our inspired ideas to brighten everyone’s spirit and strengthen your family bond. From holding a magic show to painting a wall mural––and a lot in between––there’re engaging ideas for the entire family.

Dig into this issue to see what it’s all about.

All the Best,

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

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TEXOMA AREA

KEVIN COSTNER

The Hollywood icon is on an epic adventure.

Where once it was considered the sign of a dwindling career for a big time movie actor to appear on the small screen, times have changed. These days, it’s de rigueur for marquee stars to plunge into Netflix’s streaming waters of success. So, while it comes as no surprise that 64-year-old iconic actor/filmmaker Kevin Costner took to the trend, it’s the ideal venue to showcase the skills of this consummate storyteller.

Costner likes to take his time and get to the meat of a story. He’s been described as a stick-to-it-type, a problem solver, with the sort of gritty middle-America patience often

lacking in Hollywood. With over 40 credits in film and television, obviously the work ethic is there but it goes beyond the ability to get it done, he does it well and he does it his way, against the odds.

“There’s a certain joy that comes with a struggle,” Costner explained to AARP’s Fred Schruers. “I think most people want the endgame. I’ve always liked the journey.”

This is readily apparent in his most recent small-screen roles, The Highwaymen and Yellowstone. In The Highwaymen, a Netflix longform film, Costner co-stars opposite Woody Harrelson as one of two lawmen tasked with bringing down

By Sondra Barr

Bonnie and Clyde, Depression-era bank robber/killers. In Yellowstone, which just finished up its second season on the Paramount Network, Costner plays the role of hardened ranching patriarch John Dutton. Both roles require the sort of character development and fraught journeys that Costner enjoys.

“And that’s all I want in life, a high understanding of why somebody does what they do,” explained Costner to Rolling Stone writer Erik Hedegaard.

In an interview with Michael Buckner to discuss the two shows, Costner explained streaming’s appeal. “Well, it certainly lends itself to that

In Yellowstone, Costner’s character, John Dutton, is the widowed, sixth-generation owner of the Yellowstone Ranch, the largest in the United States, and he’ll do whatever he has to do to keep it.

The characters in Yellowstone that seem like the good guys have done some terrible things, and vice versa. The series is filled with strife on the ranch, in politics and in the family. Costner describes it as, “A big melodrama with some pretty spectacular backgrounds.”

material that I gravitate toward: an epic kind of high adventure, that’s steeped in character, and that takes a long while to lay out.”

It’s this process of creation that inspires Costner and served as the impetus for his 1990 Oscarwinning directorial debut, Dances with Wolves, his epic vision of the American frontier as seen through the eyes of a U.S. Cavalry officer. The subject matter and length were initially criticized and Costner grappled with an out-of-control budget, weather complications, and other headaches to get the film produced. The movie went on to earn seven Oscars,

including two for Costner.

“I still don’t know limitations. I think you are limited only if you don’t have a great story. If you do, it’s like you’ve got this great secret in your pocket; a twist or an ending where you just feel, they’re going to love this. I’ve directed three films: The Postman, Open Range, and Dances, and I don’t feel more equipped,” explained Costner to Deadline’s Mike Fleming Jr. “I didn’t make that movie (Dances with Wolves) because I wanted it to be long. It’s just that it was the story of a long journey.”

To earn the clout to develop the films and characters he cares most

about, first Costner had to become the biggest movie star around, a journey that started off with a childhood spent always trying to fit in. Costner’s dad Bill worked for Southern California Edison and his mom Sharon was a welfare worker. The Costner brood traveled wherever jobs took its patriarch.

Costner told Rolling Stone’s Hedegaard, “I was a rascal, because I was adventurous but I didn’t have a rebellious nature. I grew up in a conservative household. Those different schools, my parents were like, ‘Toughen up,’ and my mom said, ‘Look,

Continued, next page

From previous page

we do what’s right for your father.’”

According to Hedegaard, Costner knew how to have fun and just in general keep his “dungarees well muddied up.” He also loved movies. One in particular, the first one he watched, How the West was Won, an epic western that, no doubt, helped foster his admiration for grand tales.

Sports were also an outlet for Costner and a way for the new kid to fit in. Although only 5 feet 2 during high school, he excelled at baseball before attending Cal State, Fullerton, studying business. It’s been reported that while bored in an accounting class, he saw an ad in the school paper advertising auditions for a play. It sparked his interest and he auditioned for a part in Rumpelstiltskin. He didn’t get the role but the audition sparked an inner dialogue.

“If you want to look at a high point in my life, it wasn’t a movie, it wasn’t Dances, it wasn’t Bull Durham. It was that internal talk I had with myself, where I said, ‘I don’t give a sh*t what anybody says, this is what I want to do, and I’m burning my ships like Cortes, and I am going to

go where my heart wants to go. And I’m never again going to not do that in my life, and I’m not going to be caught up in trends and what’s popular,” he told Hedegaard.

Much like many of the characters Costner plays, he took the road less worn. Rather than head to corporate America with his business degree, he gravitated towards the bustle of Hollywood where he spent years doing odd jobs and nabbing small parts before landing careerchanging roles in Bull Durham (1988), Field of Dreams

Kevin Costner & Modern West is a rock/country band which the actor Kevin Costner founded with the encouragement of his wife Christine.

ABOVE: The Highwaymen, a new Netflix film, paints the capture of Bonnie and Clyde through the eyes of the two officers, Frank Hamer and Maney Gault (played by Kevin Costner and Woody Harrelson), who hunt them down as they leave a trail of death and wreckage across the South.

(1989), and The Untouchables (1987), before directing and starring in the acclaimed Dances with Wolves

Now in his 60s, Costner seems unfazed about the limitations age imposes. “Well, I think when I played Superman’s dad (in Man of Steel), I thought, Well, there’s probably a moment when I could have played Superman. But I just couldn’t get the curl right on my forehead, and I didn’t want to go lift weights. When I was going to play Jonathan Kent, I realized that phase was over. And I’ve been very comfortable with that,” he said in an interview with Cowboys & Indians

Apparently Costner feels strongly about avoiding the gym. He told AARP, “I hate the gym. The worst thing in my life is to pick up lead weights. Who would

want to? Everybody’s dressed cool, and I don’t have any cool clothes, and there’s a mirror that makes you look silly and remind you that it’s all wrong.”

Thankfully that doesn’t mean he plans on letting himself go. As he explained to AARP, “I’m doing exactly what I want to do, being a part of great stories. I like being a storyteller, and that just doesn’t fade. It’s not a job where you’re looking to retire.”

AT RIGHT, AND INSET: Kevin Costner made his directorial debut in 1990 with Dances with Wolves, the fictional tale of a despondent white man who regains his sense of purpose with a tribe of American Indians against the backdrop of the western frontier.

Columbia TriStar

CHOOSING THE RIGHT ATTORNEY

Our story begins with Paul, a 78-year-old divorced man who passed away in late 2013. He had two children: a son named Rip and a daughter named Kelly. Paul told Kelly that he chose her to serve as Executrix in his Will because she was responsible as compared to his son Rip who had an abusive personality and was often unemployed. Rip was hard for everyone to get along with and seemed to reserve his most intense wrath for his sister. Paul’s Will left his estate to his two children in equal shares.

When Paul died, Kelly acted quickly to probate her father’s Will. She hired her father’s long-time general practice attorney, Max, to probate the Will. Max and Paul had been golfing buddies for a long time. Kelly figured that Max drafted the Will so he would be the best choice to probate it. Max had helped Paul with his divorce and had defended him when he was arrested for driving under the influence.

Max got Kelly appointed Independent Executrix before the end of the year. Several creditors unexpectedly filed claims in the estate. Unfortunately, Max didn’t specialize in probate law and so he didn’t know how to handle the creditor’s claims. In fact, there are many general practice attorneys that will accept a probate case, thinking that it’s easy. The progress of probating Paul’s estate slowed to a crawl because Max didn’t know what to do about the creditor’s claims. The problems cascaded because the slow progress angered Rip. He began calling and emailing Kelly and Max daily, sometimes multiple times per day. His communications were very abusive. Rip even filed a large creditor’s claim

of his own. Rip’s claim was frivolous but Max didn’t know how to dispose of it. Max had to charge the estate for the time he spent responding to Rip’s emails and talking to Kelly and Rip on the phone so his legal fees began to add up.

Kelly was able to sell her father’s house and land, which brought in enough money to enable Kelly to pay Max’s legal fees and make a large preliminary distribution to herself and Rip. The money didn’t placate Rip one bit and he continued to badger everyone involved. After over two years of ineffective representation, Max withdrew as the estate’s attorney. This forced Kelly to do what she should have done in the first place: research and find an elder law attorney who had expertise in probate.

By Craig Watson

the estate was closed. This delay infuriated Rip even more. However, the elder law attorney was experienced in dealing with difficult estate beneficiaries and was able to shut down Rip’s abusive communications to his sister.

Kelly made an appointment with her new elder law attorney and brought him the thick file of documents to review. After reviewing the thick file of documents, the elder law attorney realized that Max had failed to perform several procedures and give several notices required by the law. The requirements that Max had missed were only recently passed by the legislature. Since Max’s general law practice included mostly divorce, personal injury and criminal defense, he didn’t have enough volume in the probate area to justify the time it takes to keep current on all the new laws. The elder law attorney realized that in order to protect Kelly from potential personal liability, the case would have to be delayed even further to give the required notices and allow the required time periods to expire so that known and unknown potential and actual creditors, including Rip, would not be able to file claims against Kelly individually after

The delays, frustration, extra expense, and exposure to liability that Kelly experienced could have been avoided if she had hired an elder law attorney instead of her father’s general practice attorney. Probate law is a complicated field. The legislature and the courts are constantly making new laws, adding to the complexity. The sheer volume of all this change is forcing more and more attorneys to choose to specialize or limit their practice.

When Kelly first called her father’s attorney, before telling him who she was or why she was calling, she should have asked him to tell her specifically which two or three areas of the law accounted for the majority of his practice. If his answer didn’t include probate or estate law, she would have been able to deduce that she should hire a different attorney who had expertise in the field of law that she needed.

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.

HEARING FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Courtesy HearCare, Inc. & Associates

Imagine a holiday gathering where you hear with clarity and ease. One moment you’re fully engaged with your granddaughter, understanding every soft-spoken word. You transition to dinner table conversations, discerning where sounds are coming from and happily participating in the exuberant exchanges. Perhaps later there’s a football game on television or streaming a favorite holiday movie. The volume is fine, right where it is. No need to turn the sound up for your benefit!

Intelligent hearing technology is here. And you’re ready. You choose. You can select interactive options that help you intuitively shape your listening experience. Or let the astounding new technology automatically make hearing aid adjustments for you, setting the optimal sound for different environments.

The hearing aids at HearCare & Associates in Sherman are so sophisticated, they know the difference between classical and pop music. How a business meeting sounds different than a party. It’s never been easier or more convenient to hear natural sounds, enhancing the quality of your listening experience in real time and real life.

“If you enjoy working with technology, the new hearing aids let you be in control,” said HearCare & Associates co-owner Kenneth Sheppard, Jr., Licensed Fitter and Dispenser of Hearing Instruments (LFDHI). “If not, you can lean back and the automated programming will make adjustments for you. They’re that smart! You can ‘drive’ your hearing experience with an interactive app on your iPhone, or you can set it on auto-pilot.”

While the technical WOW Factor is almost mind-boggling, Jill Sheppard, B.S., SLP/Audiology, LFDHI, and co-owner of HearCare, reminds us that the patient experience depends on exceptional customer care and a lifetime of service. “Even the smartest hearing aids require programming to exact standards, tailored to your unique needs,” she said. “And there’s often a brief adjustment period to ensure the fit and the sounds are the best they can be. HearCare patients tell us we make it easy and even fun. We’ll do everything possible so you can hear well again!”

For more information about intelligent technology for your ears, call HearCare at 903-868-2650.

Jill Sheppard, Owner Kenneth Sheppard, Jr., Owner

MANAGING YOUR INVESTMENT PUZZLE

You’re trying to keep up with your 401K at work, your personal accounts and joint accounts, your IRA, stocks and bonds, the CD here and the savings account there. Every component is an important part of your investment puzzle and ideally, you want every piece working together toward a common goal. Your goal!

At Dobbs Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors in Sherman, we believe the best way to get where you want to go is to have a plan that fits. Using a comprehensive array of tools, resources and strategies, we’ll talk together about what’s most important to you. Whether it’s saving for college, tax-efficient investing, insurance, estate planning, retirement, or healthcare savings, we’ll provide objective advice you can trust.

Fargo Advisors, has been assisting clients for over 20 years. “I want people to know we’re here to help,” Juston says. “We listen carefully, building relationships based on trust and tailoring plans to fit every client. We want to understand who you are, where you are now, and what you want to achieve. We want you to feel confident knowing every piece of your investment puzzle is thoughtfully aligned according to your priorities.”

Juston invites you to call him at 903-8936682. “Together, we’ll look at strategies that fit your life and your goals. Let’s get started!”

The use of the CDFA® designation does not permit Wells Fargo Advisors or its Financial Advisors to provide legal advice, nor is it meant to imply that the firm or its associates are acting as experts in this field. Wells Fargo is not a legal or tax

Juston Dobbs, MBA, CDFA®, CFP®, Senior Vice President –Investments at Dobbs Wealth Management Group of Wells

– Juston Dobbs

GRANDPARENTS AS POSITIVE ROLE MODELS

By Georgia Smith-Lyle, MA, LPC-S

I’m writing this article not only from a psychological perspective, but also as a personal perspective. I am grandmother to four grandchildren and five step-grandchildren, all unique and special. I can honestly say the changing of the guard (going from parenting to grandparenting) takes on a new perspective.

I thought it would be interesting to ask my husband what his thoughts are concerning the influence of a grandparent as a positive role model. His response: “A grandparent’s role is to help grandchildren create new mischief and have fun doing it!”

This approach is an actual psychological style of grandparenting. If you’re that kind of grandparent, you are what is called the “fun-seeking” grandparent. The fun grandparent only wants to make sure grandchildren have fun. Reinforcing parental structure and teachable moments is not top priority with the funseeking style of grandparenting.

When grandparents keep a balance between being the fun grandparent and the formal grandparent, they are an extension of the parental structure. These two approaches, when combined, enhance greater emotional support and cohesiveness for the family. The “formal approach” occurs when a grandparent shows strong interest in their grandchildren and leaves parenting to the grandchildren’s parents.

what their expectations are while grandchildren are in the care of their grandparent. The expectation of a

Key to being a grandparent who reinforces the structure of the family unit is communication with parents, and mutual respect. Parents should initiate the communication with grandparents, letting them know

grandparent is then out in the open and grandparents can openly say what they are comfortable doing or not doing. This initial open communication with respect is a way to avoid misunderstandings on expectations. Grandparents are observed and watched by little ones, making the influence tremendous and rewarding in the life of a grandparent. Grandparents teach just by spending time with their grandchildren, not ever having to verbally teach anything. Grandparents influence the way grandchildren view the world around them, so much

so there are times children want to grow up to be more like their grandparent than anyone else.

Grandparents can provide support emotionally or physically for grandchildren and children. In today’s society, both parents typically work and the ability to rely upon a grandparent for help in caring for the physical and emotional needs of grandchildren is a stress release for the parents. At the same time, it is rewarding for the grandparent.

Studies have shown grandparents that see their grandchildren frequently and interact with their lives seem happier with life in their older age and have less depression. They feel needed, wanted, and a part of the family unit. One of the strong benefits of being an interactive and available grandparent is building relationships with grandchildren who someday may need the loving wisdom of a grandparent, as opposed to talking with a parent. When those special moments occur, the years of interaction as grandparent will pay off.

How important is it in today’s society to have someone who you know loves you and wants the best for you give you sound advice and who has wisdom beyond your youth? I would say extremely valuable. Parents, make time for grandchildren to know their grandparents. Grandparents, don’t be too busy or unavailable. This is your legacy and grandchildren need your input. Their parents need your support. Warm and cohesive family environments promote secure children who then turn around and offer a secure and safe environment to their own children.

A GRANDPARENT’S ROLE IS TO HELP GRANDCHILDREN CREATE NEW MISCHIEF AND HAVE FUN DOING IT!

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. www.counselingbygeorgia.com

WHO NEEDS A HUG?

By Becky LaSalle

Studies show that when we hug, we feel less lonely. Hugs lower our heart rate, blood pressure, and the levels of the harmful stress hormone cortisol. After the loss of a loved one we need hugs more than ever but sometimes the only hug we want is from the person we lost.

Enter the Bear Hugs program at Home Hospice of Grayson, Cooke & Fannin Counties. Volunteers take clothing or other fabric items brought in by families and turn them into teddy bears. The bears are the perfect size for a hug and since they often carry the scent of the lost loved one, they become a source of welcome comfort.

Miriam Wallace says, “I chose my husband’s favorite blanket that he used during his last days of life here on earth as the material for my bear. It still had Mike’s scent on it for a long time. Thank you, Bear Hugs volunteers!” She calls her bear “Daddy’s Bear” and named her canine friend, “MannyBear.”

The bears are loved by all ages. One set of bears was given to the grandchildren of a former Home Hospice patient. They call their bears “Papa Bear” and sleep with them every

night. Even two years after their Papa passed away they continue to sleep with the bears and hug them when they miss him. The bears provide a precious connection to the loved one at a time when they feel so lost. Sometimes, comfort is hard to come by after a loss but having something tangible to hold on to helps to sooth a broken heart.

All the bears are made with love by volunteers in the Bear Hugs program. We all need a hug from time to time. For more information about the Bear Hugs program or to see more pictures, you can visit the Home Hospice of Grayson, Cooke & Fannin Counties facebook page at www.facebook.com/homehospiceofgrayson or visit their website at www.homehospice.org.

“They invented hugs to let people know you love them without saying anything.”––Bil Keane

Miriam Wallace

SPECIALIZED WOUND CARE

Our team of specialists uses an advanced clinical approach, including hyperbaric oxygen therapy, to reduce your healing time.

Working together with your healthcare provider, our trained staff will get you back to living your daily life.

MEET OUR PHYSICIAN PANEL

Dr. Edward Tomoye

Infectious Disease/HBO/Wound Care

Dr. Minaxi Rathod

Infectious Disease/HBO/Wound Care

Dr. Jennifer Laing

Family Practitioner/HBO/Wound Care

Dr. Dustin Lloyd

Podiatry/HBO/Wound Care

WE TREAT ALL WOUNDS INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

• Diabetic foot ulcers

• Venous ulcers

• Pressure ulcers

• Surgical wounds

• Traumatic wounds

• Arterial ulcers

• Late effects of radiation treatments

• Compromised skin grafts and flaps

• Crush injuries

CHOOSE WILSON N. JONES

If you have a wound or an ulcer that is not healing, or any wound that is of concern, ask your physician for a referral to the wound center or contact us directly for an appointment.

891-2139

BOOMERS BRING CREATIVITY TO FUNERAL SERVICES

Baby Boomers are known as a generation unafraid of change. They embraced rock music and folk ballads. They tackled political activism. Now, they’re choosing their funeral arrangements with the same boldness and resistance to tradition.

Perhaps not surprisingly, Boomers are taking a more active role in pre-planning their own funerals, requesting a celebration of life that is unique and yet comforting for their families.

Once, pre-planning was somehow taboo, as though not talking about––or planning for––our deaths might prevent it from happening. Boomers, however, have the information, the resources and the motivation to pursue pre-planning with confidence. Since many have buried their parents, they know how hard it can be for families to make those decisions during an emotional time. And, as is typical with Boomers, they want to have a say in how they say good-bye.

The professional team at Dannel Funeral Home will talk with you about arrangements that are most meaningful, whether it involves environmentally-friendly disposition or Beatles music during the service. Be assured there is no single “right” way.

“There is a definite trend toward unique and creative arrangements,” says Charles Dannel, owner of Dannel Funeral Home in Sherman. “Boomers often want their final services to have a flair or tell a story. Some want to encourage their family to embrace life and live in ways that matter.”

One of the most frequent questions about pre-panning is what happens if you move to another city? Your arrangements are transferable, so another funeral home will honor your plan. Additionally, you have payment options. And costs are frozen, even if the service is paid out in installments. (Funeral costs, like most other services, rise over time.)

The document is amendable as well. So you can change from Beatles music to the Stones if you’d like. Pre-planning is one of those gifts you leave behind for your family. Like all that you taught them. All the love that you shared. And all the laughter you generated.

Charles invites you to give him a call at 903-893-1171. The Dannel family has been helping families like yours for over 100 years.

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

Gabriel Rodriguez, M.D. Anesthesiologist

Interventional Pain Relief Physician

Dr. Gabriel Rodriguez is a board-certified anesthesiologist and fellowship-trained interventional pain physician at The Pain Relief Center and is dedicated to the eradication of pain. The Pain Relief Center is a state-of-the-art facility providing custom pain relief treatments and same-day procedures to give each patient the ultimate experience.

Dr. Rodriguez received his medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, Texas. Following this, he completed his anesthesia residency at the prestigious Mayo Clinic in Jack- sonville, FL (ranked among the very best pain management programs in the country by U.S.News & World Report) and continued his training in the pain relief fellowship. He is now a Diplomat of the Ameri- can Board of Pain Medicine, as well as a Diplomat of the American Board of Anesthesiology.

Dr. Rodriguez approaches pain management from an individualized perspective and diligently prepares a comprehensive pain treatment plan tailored to each patient’s specific needs. Dr. Rodriguez understands that not all pain is the same and offers a complete assessment of your pain as well as frequent reassessments to ensure your pain is well controlled. Most procedures are minimally invasive and provide considerable relief. Dr. Rodriguez believes that no one should live with pain and be limited from having the life they once knew.

Rahul Banerjee, MD

Orthopaedic Surgeon

Comprehensive Orthopaedic Care with expertise in:

• Fracture Repair

• Joint Replacement

• Anterior Total Hip Replacement

• Fracture Nonunions/Malunions

• Limb Lengthening

• Periprosthetic Fractures

• Pelvic Fractures

• Upper Extremity Injuries

Dr. Rahul Banerjee is a board-certified, fellowship trained orthopaedic surgeon who specializes in comprehensive fracture management, joint replacement (including direct anterior hip replacement), and management of complex orthopaedic problems.

Dr. Banerjee graduated with honors from Brown University and completed medical school at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine where he was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha honors society.

Dr. Banerjee served in the United States Air Force and attained the rank of Major. Dr. Banerjee was assigned to treating injured patients and training orthopaedic residents at the William Beaumont Army Medical Center in El Paso, TX. During his service, he was deployed to the War in Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and treated many injured soldiers and civilians.

Dr. Banerjee is the recipient of numerous awards and honors including the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Howard Rosen Teaching Award from AO North America. He is an active member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the Orthopaedic Trauma Association, and the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society. Dr. Banerjee has authored over 25 peer-reviewed publications and numerous textbook chapters on the treatment of orthopaedic problems.

Dr. Banerjee serves as the Director of Orthopaedic Trauma at Medical City Plano. In 2019, Dr. Banerjee joined Texas Bone and Joint and continues to practice in Plano.

Dr. Ralston is Board Certified in Dermatology. He is an award-winning dermatologist with numerous accolades. Most recently he was honored in 2019 as Best Dermatologist, Best Place for Botox, and Best Laser Hair Removal by McKinney / Allen Living Magazine. In 2018 he won Best Physician - Dermatologist for the eighth year in a row by McKinney Magazine/Online's Best of McKinney.

Dr. Ralston practices cosmetic, surgical and medical dermatology and provides the latest treatment options for a wide range of pediatric, adolescent and adult dermatological concerns such as skin cancer, eczema, acne and acne scars, wrinkles, age spots, rashes and psoriasis. He utilizes treatments, such as PDT, which combines laser or other light with topical medicine to treat skin cancer, acne, aging, and other conditions. He provides the latest in body contouring and other cosmetic treatments and techniques. Additionally, he is a national key opinion leader for multiple lasers. His professional interests include utilizing technology to enhance the art and science of medicine for optimal skin health through preventative and quality care.

Dr. Ralston received his medical degree from The University of Texas Medical School at Houston, and completed his dermatology residency at the State University of New York (SUNY) in Buffalo, New York where he was Chief Resident. He also fulfilled a fellowship in cutaneous oncology and photodynamic therapy (PDT) at the prestigious Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo, New York. There he explored leading edge technology to develop less invasive methods to treat skin cancer and pre-cancers in order to refine his skills as a surgeon further, Dr. Ralston participated as a fellow in Mohs micrographic surgery. Dr. Ralston has contributed textbook chapters and articles to the medical literature and was awarded Best Clinical Science Report from Roswell Park Cancer Institute.

Dr. Ralston was raised in The Woodlands, Texas, and now lives in McKinney with his wife and three children. He enjoys snow skiing, computers, music, reading, theatre, and spending time with his family.

NEW FREESTANDING EMERGENCY ROOM

OFFERS THE ADVANTAGES OF A HOSPITAL EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

ER at Sherman Is A Service of Texoma Medical Center

Texoma Medical Center (TMC) is pleased to announce that ER at Sherman is now open. The new freestanding emergency room is located only three miles from the hospital at 4226 N. Hwy. 75 at Sherman Town Center.

According to Jared Johnson, TMC director of ambulatory services, ER at Sherman is unique to the region, since it’s the only freestanding emergency room in our area operating under a hospital license. ER at Sherman also accepts all major insurance plans in addition to Medicare and Medicaid.

“As a hospital-based freestanding emergency room, ER at Sherman is held to the same standards as if it were located in the hospital,“ explains Johnson.

For example, ER at Sherman will be required to submit quality reports that are made available to the public, just as any hospital-based ER must do. Freestanding emergency rooms are not operated under a hospital license and, therefore, not required to do this. Operating under a hospital license offers better protection for the patient, according to Johnson.

Patients Can Expect Continuity of Care

Continuity of care will be consistent from ER at Sherman to TMC. Patients presenting to the ER at Sherman should feel as if they are in the Emergency Room at TMC, since ER at Sherman has all the resources of TMC, the region’s leading trauma center, available to them.

If needed, a direct admit to TMC will occur by ambulance with no need for the patient to present again to admissions in TMC’s hospital emergency room. Patients may also request to be transferred to another hospital of their choice. TMC hospital staff will be ready to continue care when the patient arrives at TMC. The patient’s information will transfer electronically from ER at Sherman to TMC.

• ER at Sherman is open 24-hours a day, 365 days per year

• Physicians on staff

• Treats all ages–pediatric treatment room is available

• Private exam rooms for adults

“In most cases, we should be able to get the patient to a room quickly,” says Johnson. “Altogether we have eight patient rooms, including one room designed to treat patients with obstetric and gynecologic conditions.”

ER at Sherman offers laboratory services, respiratory treatment, digital X-ray, CT Scan, ultrasound, medications and fluids, cardiopulmonary monitoring (monitoring of heart activity), among other services.

Johnson, adds, “When someone has a medical emergency, they can just walk in. No appointment is necessary.”

ER at Sherman is located at 4226 N. Hwy. 75 at Sherman Town Center.

Additional Benefits for ER at Sherman Patients Include:

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 four 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.

Hearty Split Pea Soup

• 1 package of dried split peas

• 1 or 2 smoked ham hocks, 1/2 cup diced ham or 6 slices diced rendered bacon

• 4 small organic carrots sliced or diced

• 1 medium red potato diced

• 4 stalks organic celery

• 1 medium yellow onion diced

• 3 minced cloves garlic

• 1 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 2 teaspoons Himalayan salt

• 1 tablespoon minced fresh rosemary

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

• 32 ounces organic chicken bone broth

• 32 ounces water

Add all ingredients to a soup pot and cook on medium heat a couple of hours until peas cook down. Remove ham hocks if used and remove any meat from them to put back into pot.

Minestrone with Italian Sausage

• 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, browned

• 1 cup diced carrots

• 1 cup diced celery

• 1 diced medium yellow onion

• 2 diced medium red potatoes

• 2 cups diced zucchini

• 1 cup diced green beans

• 4-5 cloves chopped garlic

• 1 tsp dry oregano

• 1 tsp dry basil

• 2 tsp fresh chopped rosemary

• 1 tsp celery seed

• 32oz carton beef bone broth

• 14oz can diced organic tomatoes

• 2-6oz cans organic tomato paste

• 2 cups water

• 2 cups cooked barley

• 5oz fresh organic spinach

• 0.5oz fresh basil, roughly chopped

• Fresh grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 large stew pot

Brown Italian sausage and remove from pot, leaving rendered fat. Use organic vegetables if possible. Add carrots, onion, celery and green beans to pot along with a tablespoon of olive oil, and sauté vegetables. Add garlic, spices, zucchini and sausage and stir together. Mix in bone broth, tomatoes, tomato paste and water. Bring to a boil and add barley. Lower heat to simmer for about 45-50 minutes. Just before removing from heat stir in spinach (no need to chop) and fresh basil. Serve in bowls, garnish with grated Parmesan.

Radiofrequency ablation treatment now available for spin al tumor s

Minimally invasive technology, close to home

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

Brian Rose, MD, FAAOS Orthopedic & Spine Surgeon 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

SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR A STRESS-FREE HOLIDAY SEASON

By Kimberly Blaker

Do you dread the hustle and bustle of another holiday season? Between shopping, wrapping, baking, holiday cards, parties, and many other obligations and tasks, surviving the season can be a feat, let alone finding the time to enjoy it with your family. This year, why not make a pact to eliminate stress by following these tips?

Early planning

First, close your eyes and think back to the previous couple years and how hectic and stressful they felt. What percentage of holiday activities and tasks would you need to eliminate to make the season truly enjoyable and relatively stress-free? During this process, don’t think about what you can’t eliminate. Just determine the percentage of reduction you need to make.

ant, least necessary, and least desirable events and tasks. Then review the list, and calculate how much time and expense you’ve shaved off. If you haven’t reached your predetermined reduction, go through your list again.

Once you’ve decided which parties you’ll attend and the commitments you’ll make, plan how you’ll say ‘no’ to all the others, so you’re not caught off guard.

Get plenty of exercise, such as a brisk walk in the fresh air, and set aside time for relaxation, like a long bubble bath.

Next, make a list of everything you need to do during the holiday season, to which parties you’ll be invited, and how much money you’ll spend. Now cross off the least import-

Share in the preparation

Enlist your family to help prepare for the holidays, and divvy up the tasks. Don’t expect perfection from yourself or your family. Remember, you probably don’t notice or mind the imperfections in others’ holiday gatherings. They’re just as unlikely to see any in yours.

Also, keep in mind the holiday season isn’t the time to be head cook. Plan potluck gatherings. Then, either suggest what each person should bring or, to avoid duplicates, ask guests to let you know what they’ll bring.

Holiday time-and-energy savers

Save time in gift-wrapping by setting up a station in a spare room or the basement. Or stock a large box or basket with wrapping paper, ribbon, bows, tags, tape, scissors, and pens, so everything is stored in one place. Have extras of everything on hand.

Keep cleaning to a minimum during the holidays. Dismiss unused areas guests won’t see or use, and clean only the obvious in rooms that will be seen. The barely-visible layer of dust on your baseboards is unlikely to be noticed with all the holiday decorations and festivities.

Make everyday meals quick and simple throughout the season. Soups, sandwiches, fresh fruit and vegetables, cottage cheese, pre-cut veggies and dip, and other prepared or semi-prepared healthy foods will suffice for one month of the year.

Do your holiday shopping early in the day on weekdays while your energy is high and crowds are small.

Shop online or by catalog. If an item lacks details, search for a manufacturer’s website to get the information you need.

Give gift cards. Hard-to-shop-for recipients will appreciate something practical. Gift cards to restaurants, department stores, sporting good outlets, and specialty shops, or for a massage, pedicure, or round of golf make great gifts.

Don’t overdo the baking. Your guests will likely have had their fill of holiday treats long before your gathering arrives. As for the warm gesture of taking a plate of baked goodies to friends or neighbors, instead, show they’re in your thoughts by visiting or calling them to wish them a happy holiday season.

Money saver

foods and the lack of healthy meals can lead to tiredness and stress. Keep goodies stored in the freezer where they’ll be less of a temptation. Have plenty of convenient, healthy snacks such as raw vegetables and nuts on hand. Prepare low-fat meals that won’t bog you down.

Pace yourself, and don’t try to do everything in one day.

Remember, you probably don’t notice or mind the imperfections in others’ holiday gatherings. They’re just as unlikely to see any in yours.

Finally, give yourself a break. Get plenty of exercise such as a brisk walk in the fresh air, and set aside time for relaxation, like a long bubble bath.

Things to do for next year

Start your shopping early. Create a new tradition with a friend or family member and set a monthly shopping date for the upcoming year. By making a scheduled commitment, you’ll be more likely to follow through. Keep the early holiday shopping fun and choose a different town or shopping center for each trip, focusing on unique malls or trendy towns.

Does your gift list grow each year? Decide with whom it’s essential or important to exchange gifts. Then talk to extended family, friends, coworkers, and others about forgoing gift exchanges, putting a cap on the price, or doing a drawing instead. You’ll likely learn many feel the same as you do.

Care for yourself

Enjoy holiday treats in moderation. High fat and sugary

Also, get a label printing software program or app early in the year and enter all of the addresses on your holiday card list. When the holidays roll around, you can print the labels and eliminate the most time-consuming aspect of sending out holiday greetings.

Finally, remember the holiday season should be a joyful time for everyone, including yourself, to join in the good cheer with family and friends. Maximize ways to ease your stress to keep the ‘happy’ in your holidays!

Kimberly Blaker is a freelance lifestyle writer. She also writes content and blog posts for businesses in a variety of industries and is an expert in one-page SEO. www.kimberlyblaker.com

HarborChase of Plano

UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS

Join us for an exciting series of fun and educational events!

Wednesday NOV 13 12:30pm

Monday NOV 25 3PM

Tuesday DEC 3 2pm

Thursday DEC 19 4pm

Avoiding Senior Scams

Don’t become a statistic! Join us for a complimentary lunch and special seminar and learn how you can avoid becoming another victim. You’ll discover how to detect, deter and defend against identity theft and other common frauds and scams.

Turkey for a Tour

Come in for this exclusive open house event and we’ll send you home with a frozen turkey for Thanksgiving! All you have to do is take a tour, meet our associates, and enjoy apple cider and festive treats.

Holiday Cookie Swap!

Follow the smell of fresh-baked cookies for a fun and festive Cookie Swap. Using your favorite recipe, simply bring 36 of your favorite cookies and bring them to exchange with others and enter our contest. You could win a prize!

HarborChase Holiday Party

Let us celebrate you with a fun and festive evening featuring holiday music, holiday treats and a variety of seasonal cocktails. Wear your best ugly sweater and you could go home with a prize. Come get jolly with us!

Space is limited. For more information or to RSVP for any of these special events, call (972) 362-2175.

Reza Mobarak, DPM, FACFAS, FAPWCA

Board Certified in Foot & Ankle Surgery and in Wound Care

Fellow, American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons Fellow, American Professional Wound Care Association

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

972.805.9985

LEWISVILLE CLINIC: 502 N. Valley Pkwy., #2 Lewisville, TX 75067

972.318.2738

IRVING CLINIC: 6161 N. State Hwy. 161 Ste. 320 Irving, TX 75038

972.318.2655

Let Your Feet Guide Your Way To Comfort...

The foot is a crucial part of the human body and comes with numerous complications that often need to be treated by qualified professionals. Our staff is filled with responsible specialists experienced in treating a variety of conditions.

SPECIALIZES IN:

Foot and Ankle • Wound Care • *Neuropathy

OFFERING:

Laser Therapy for

• Pain

• Swelling

• Arthritis

• Wounds

*Neuropathy (numbness, tingling, burning, pain)

Medical & Surgical Treatments Offered:

• Foot and Ankle Surgery

• Heel Pain (Plantar Fasciitis)

• Bunions and Hammer Toe Procedure

• Ingrown Toenails

• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Diabetic Foot Care

• Flat Feet

• Trauma

• Drop Foot

• Custom Orthotics & Braces

Hip or Knee Slow You Down

J. TYLER NEWTON, DO

Reconstructive Orthopedic Surgeon

Dr. J. Tyler Newton is a board-eligible, fellowship trained orthopaedic surgeon. Dr. Newton graduated from the University of Texas with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and completed medical school at the University of North Texas Health Science Center where he was inducted into the honors society. Dr. Newton completed his orthopaedic surgery residency at St. John Providence Health System in metro Detroit and spent an additional year completing an orthopaedic hip and knee replacement fellowship at Cleveland Clinic in Florida.

During his fellowship, Dr. Newton gained invaluable experience utilizing the latest robotic technology to learn the most advanced practices in hip and knee replacements. Dr. Newton hopes to bring this state-of-the-art technology to his own practice soon.

In 2019, Dr. Newton joined the staff at Texoma Medical Center in the Denison. He is an active member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, American Osteopathic Academy of Orthopaedics, and the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons.

Dr. Newton’s clinical interests include treatment of fractures and injuries, hip replacements (including direct anterior hip replacements), knee replacements (including partial and total knee replacements), as well as hip and knee replacement revisions.

INDOOR FUN WITH YOUR KIDS: ACTIVITIES TO BRIGHTEN A GLOOMY DAY

By Kimberly Blaker

Don’t let the weather get your kids down. Because there’s no better occasion to enjoy cozy indoor fun. Try some of these ideas to brighten everyone’s spirit and strengthen your family bond.

Make a tent or fort. Indoor tents and forts make fun play areas as well as cozy retreats for reading or watching movies. To build a tent, take several bed sheets, tablecloths, or blankets, and hang them over tables or backward-facing chairs. For a more permanent structure, connect PVC tubing into the shape of a box and then drape it with sheets.

Hold an art workshop. Gather the basics such as paper, paint, and markers. Then scrounge for a variety of recycla-

bles such as boxes, toilet paper rolls, plastic bottles, caps, old magazines, and anything else you can think of. If you have any crafting supplies such as yarn, fabric, or glitter, pull those out as well. Then let your family’s inspiration flow, and create to everyone’s heart’s content.

Do a read-in. First, head to the library and have everyone pick out some books. When you return home, pull out pillows and blankets in the family room, and spend the day lounging and reading. Another option is for everyone to take turns reading aloud from a book that’s geared toward all ages.

Learn self-defense. Rent or buy a martial arts DVD on basic self-defense. Then gather your kids to practice tech -

niques that could help them escape a dangerous situation.

Hold a magic show. Pick up magic trick books or watch magic videos online. Then practice up, and invite the neighborhood kids or grandparents to come and watch your act.

Have a dance-a-thon. Crank up the volume to some pop, hip-hop, or whatever music your kids enjoy, and see whose energy holds out the longest.

Play bakery. What better way to warm up on a chilly day and enjoy family time than to bake up some tasty treats? Make a day of it, and get all your baking done in advance for an upcoming gathering or so you have treats to store. After you’ve sufficiently sampled the goodies, freeze the remainder.

Sizzling scienc e fun. Search online for fun experiments you can conduct at home with basic household products and ingredients. Perform a few. Then make a video of a really cool one to post on YouTube.

Do a workout. Physical fitness is vital for the entire family. Look for a HIIT, Zumba, or another cardiovascular exercise video with today’s hottest music and moves.

Paint a wall mural. Is your family artistic? If so, choose a wall in your basement, garage, mudroom, or playroom in need of a personal touch. Before you begin, draw your mural idea on a piece of paper. Then

Gather the kids to practice techniques that could help them escape a dangerous situation.

buy 3 or 4 quarts of primary color paints plus a quart of white and black. You can mix the colors at home to create additional colors and shades.

Hold a game night. Pull out the cards and board games, and gather some snacks. Then start keeping score to see who will be the night’s grand winner.

Enjoy a picnic. Who says picnics are only for outdoors? Put together all the fixings of a picnic complete with a picnic basket, if you have one. Then spread out a blanket in your family room, and enjoy the grub.

Tell stories. Write a dozen or so story prompts, each on a separate piece of paper, and toss them into a bowl. Then take turns pulling out a story prompt and telling a story. Another option is for one person to start the story. Then, go around the room, and each of you adds a sentence to the story. See how long you can keep the story alive.

Get cultured. Choose a culture your kids would like to experience and learn more about. Look for recipes from that culture online as well as mealtime customs for a fuller experience. Then have everyone pitch in and help cook the international fare.

Perform a puppet show. Pull out old socks or brown paper lunch bags, and make your own puppets. Draw on the faces, and use yarn or string for the hair. Then take turns performing your acts.

PREMIER SURGEON FOR HIP AND KNEE REPLACEMENT

Total

Total

Partial

HOW TO PROMOTE AND

“The greatest wealth is health.”

Thanks to some Affordable Care Act incentives, many companies already have wellness programs in place or plan on implementing them in the near future. The wellness initiatives represent companies recognizing that the health of their employees may impact their bottom line.

By focusing on employees’ well being, productivity can be increased and absenteeism reduced. The question remains, are the programs delivering the desired results even though a company’s healthcare costs are increased?

Lots of programs focus on physical health and ways to reduce cardiovascular risks (i.e., smoking, lack of physical activity, obesity, etc.) by improving employees’ well being. In addition, many also offer employees incentives to engage in healthier lifestyles that can result in weight loss, reduce or quit smoking, and other positive changes.

WORKPLACE PROGRAMS

Companies assess employees’ needs, identify the negative issues in terms of lifestyles and wellness levels, hire a firm to handle technology tools and policies, and promote innovative incentives. Commonly, problems at work are more associated to health complaints than any other life stressor. The key is to maintain healthy behaviors for an extended period of time, and not just for a week. Most programs promote healthier food choices, smaller portions, exercise, smoking less or cessation, drinking control, use of seat belts while driving, techniques to reduce stress, and other healthy habits.

IMPROVE WELLNESS IN THE WORKPLACE

PROMOTE AND IMPROVE WELLNESS

As long as employees are exposed to these wellness initiatives, positive outcomes can be expected. Following are some ideas to engage employees and maintain a competitive structure:

• Focus on prevention

• Develop a smoke free environment

• Publish a wellness newsletter

• Create flexible work hours

• Offer one remote working day each week

• Incentives for smoking cessation

• Gradually introduce healthier food options

• Innovate with a gratitude practice

• Introduce yoga and fitness lessons or classes that employees are willing to attend

• Optimize for standing desks

• Encourage physical activity breaks for long meetings

• Promote competitions

• Identify areas around the building for physical activities

• Innovate with employee volunteer coaches

• Introduce weekly office goals

• Add healthy snacks in vending machines

• Work with cafeteria personnel and vending machines to show calorie and nutritional content

• Hold low fat cooking demonstrations

• Identify one healthy snack for the heart at the cafeteria on a daily basis

• Have an employee healthy luncheon and introduce recipe ideas to pass along

By Julie Alvira, MD, MBA

• Create support groups for different needs (weight management, smoke cessation, and others)

• Share non alcoholic cocktail ideas

• Innovate with health fairs

• Promote stress management techniques such as taking a pet for a walk in partner with a pet shelter, breathing relaxation, mindfulness, stress relief breaks, etc.

• Reimburse and provide incentives for employees that enroll in smoking cessation. Hold monthly events and programs

• Incorporate wellness maintenance medical visits

• Conversations about lifestyles

• Perform regular screenings tests for glucose and cholesterol levels

• Target employees who already have chronic diseases

ARE PROGRAMS DELIVERING RESULTS?

The above ideas can improve programs, but companies have to pay attention to ROI and VOI. Screening all employees for health risks, offering one-on-one coaching, and counseling sessions can get expensive. Other ideas included earlier can be more cost effective. The metrics have to be based on the reason the company started. ROI is often limited if it’s focused only on cutting health care costs. VOI is a broader way to see benefits that go beyond expenses. Low levels of absenteeism, satisfaction, mental health (which is another topic of discussion in wellness programs), retention, and satisfaction can be of importance in metrics.

Recent findings conducted by Song and Baicker (2019) for JAMA of more than 4,000 employees at different organizations concluded that wellness programs for a short term have some positive effect on employees’ health behavior (weight management and others) as long as the employees are exposed. However, there’s still a question of positive financial return in the short term. Employers have to be clear about their goals for the program, will have to continue tailoring their programs, evolve with needs, and try to implement for the long term.

Far more can be accomplished by focusing on employees’ health rather than just on costs. Lots of variables, including the appropriate metrics, need to be taken into consideration.

Julie Alvira, M.D., MBA, Healthcare Management is the founder of Coach Dr. Julie, LLC - Physician Life Coaching Services as well as a certified life coach. She’s master certified in health and wellness. You can find her on Facebook as Coach Dr. Julie for via email at julie@coachdrjulie.com. www.coachdrjulie.com

Richardson

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

DENNIS BIRENBAUM, MD EUGENE J. WYSZYNSKI, DO

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:

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

Key-Whitman Eye Center

SPECIALTY: LASIK, Cataract Surger y, Symfony, Cr ystalens, and Comprehensive Adult Eye Care

Thousands of Nor th Texans choose Key-Whitman Eye Center because they want better vision, and Key-Whitman is one of the few eye centers that offers the full range of vision improvement options. This highly experienced team of doctors offers patients comprehensive eye care with the convenience of locations across Dallas-For t Wor th Chief surgeon and President Dr Jeffrey Whitman is the past president of the American College of Eye Surgeons and is recognized in D Magazine as one of the Best Doctors in Dallas for 18 consecutive years. He is one of the first surgeons in Texas to be trained in LASIK eye surger y for nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism Today, Key-Whitman is known for all-laser, blade-free LASIK to give patients greater predictability and accuracy than ever before From comprehensive eye exams, management of glaucoma and corneal disease to reconstructive and cosmetic eyelid surger y, Key-Whitman continues to provide its patients with personalized, high-tech solutions for better vision

From left to right: Todd Agnew, O.D., A nit a Jacob, O.D., Kim Warren, M.D., Ron Barke, M.D., Mar t in Faber, O.D., A manda Hoelsc her, O.D.,

M.D., Ed ward Hurs t, M.D., Tara Hardin, O.D., A my Hong, M.D.