SPRING 2013
COMPLIMENTARY
CELEBRATING, MOTIVATING, AND EDUCATING WOMEN
Real
TM
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
EDDIE! Eddie of EdVenture is turning 10
Meet an
INSPIRING
LOCAL DUO Richard Culliver and Stephanie McMillan share their journey
In this Issue
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16
From the Editor
Professional
www.midlandswoman.com
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Lori Samples Duncan loriduncan86@gmail.com
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES Theresa Adams Cathy Williams info@midlandswoman.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Pastor Mark Crumpton Lori Samples Duncan Jamie Lober Beth McCrary
DESIGN Melissa W. Morris
PHOTOGRAPHY Clark Berry Photography K. Dalton KLinh Evelyn Grace Photography Robert Patrick Image Design Steve Headden
4 Spring has Sprung! 5 What’s Happening?
26
Let’s Talk
Business & Web Directory
Events
7 8 11 12 14
Your Morning Friends Eric and Heather at 89.7 WMHK If I Could Turn Back Time Book Your Next Stay in Charleston America’s Next Top Model Victoria Henley Happy Birthday Eddie!
Girl Scouts of South Carolina— Mountains to Midlands Celebrated Five Local Women of Distinction
27 Contact our Advertisers
Personal Note 28 Be Grateful
Celebrating the Survivor in You!
16 20 21 Find us on facebook!
Midlands Woman Magazine Woman 2 Woman Publishing (803) 785-4475 602 Northwood Road Lexington, SC 29072
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or omissions. No part of this book may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. © 2013
Stephanie McMillan and Richard Culliver Making Each Day Count Kennedy Branham: Putting Others First
Health & Wellness
22 24
Palmetto Imaging: Child Tested, Mother Approved Sometimes....You Need a Little Help at Home
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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women
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W
hat an exciting year 2013 has been so far. Some of that excitement has been for great reasons and some for some not so great reasons. However here in the Midlands we have something to be excited about, Eddie of EdVenture is turning 10! I love EdVenture Children’s museum and we wanted to help celebrate ten years with them this issue. We had a chance to sit down with Catherine Wilson Horne recently to talk about this special year. One of my favorite articles to ever be privledged to bring you is about Stephanie McMillan, the single mother of seven year old Richard Culliver who is battling an inoperable brain tumor called Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma. While we work hard to bring you stories to motivate, educate and inspire you, this story is tinged with sadness but it is sure to make you want to be a better parent yourself. Stephanie blogs on Richards Journey (his Facebook page) in a way that makes you want to appreciate every moment. We are also privileged to get to share with you two inspirational women from Lexington who ran in the Boston Marathon. While we are thankful these ladies made it home safe and sound, we continue to pray for the families of those who lost their life and those who were injured during this senseless act of terrorism. We are already working our next issue and can’t wait to share more great stories with you, our reader. Feel free to give us a call if you would like to nominate someone to be featured. It is a very real desire to bring you stories of the people you want to hear about. I look forward to hearing your feedback in every issue. I always read every single personal email. You can send me your thoughts and suggestions at loriduncan86@gmail.com. Thanks for reading and don’t forget Midlands Woman Magazine would not be possible without the support of our advertisers who have made a commitment to you the reader. They will provide you with quality services and products with exceptional customer service. Support those businesses within these pages as they support the pages of Midlands Woman Magazine.
Until next time, Psalms 8:1 O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory above the heavens.
Lori Samples Duncan Editor-in-Chief
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women
Events
What’s HAPPENING? 4th Annual Crawdaddy Dash May 11, 9 a.m. Rosewood Neighborhood
Want a great way to kick-off your visit to the Rosewood Crawfish Festival? Come run with us! Over 700 Runners participated in our first year - what a great turnout. The race starts at 9 a.m. and participants will be the FIRST in the gate to enjoy post race refreshments. Awards will begin at 10:30 a.m. and you will be front and center when the music begins! All participants will receive an entry FREE to the Rosewood Crawfish Festival ($12 value) and an official Race T-Shirt! The Rosewood Crawfish Festival will be held from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Dogs and strollers are welcome during the Crawdaddy Dash. Unfortunately, dogs will not be allowed into the Rosewood Festival. www.crawdaddydash.com
May Day on Main May 18 1500 block of Main Street, Columbia
Spend your Saturday downtown and enjoy fabulous specials from our downtown retailers and restaurants. Make sure you stop by Soda City Farmers Market! Admission is free!
Swim 4 Nathaniel May 18 Country Club of Lexington
Come out and show your support for Nathaniel Fournel, a fun loving, spirited 13 year old 8th grader at PHMS in Lexington who was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Featuring family friendly fun for all ages with a silent auction, food, a live DJ, and games for little ones. Enjoy swimming, racing, diving, cannon balls, and more with members of the USC swim team. Learn more about Nathaniel and this event at the website below. www.swim4nathaniel.com
Columbia Mini Maker Faire Opens in June, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. EdVenture Children’s Museum
SERVING THE MIDLANDS
(803) 356-8080
www.midlandslandscape.com
The Maker Faire is coming to Columbia! The first annual Columbia Mini Maker Faire on Saturday, June 1, 2013 will feature rockets and robots, DIY science and technology, alternative energy, unique hand-made crafts, music, local food, and educational workshops and installations. Maker Faire is the Greatest Show (and Tell) on Earth—a festival of invention, creativity and resourcefulness, and a celebration of the Maker movement. Part science fair, part county fair, and part something entirely new,
Maker Faire is an all-ages gathering of tech enthusiasts, crafters, educators, tinkerers, hobbyists, engineers, science clubs, authors, artists, students and commercial exhibitors. All of these “makers” come to Maker Faire to show what they have made and to share what they have learned. Any groups or individuals interested in showcasing their talent should complete the simple application at www.makerfairecolumbiasc.com. Let’s make stuff, Columbia SC! www.edventure.org
The Great Falls Rescue Annual Rodeo June 14 – 15, 6 p.m. 2536 James Baker Blvd, Great Falls
Gates open at 6 p.m. with the Rodeo starting at 8 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 ages 4-12, and free admission for ages 3 and under. Parking is $5. Uncle Si from Ducky Dynasty will be featured at this year’s 2013 Rodeo! He will “Meet & Greet” on Saturday, June 15, 2013 from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m. Tickets to meet Uncle Si which also include admission to Saturday’s rodeo are $40 per person, $20 per child and ages 3 and under will be admitted for free (proof of age may be required). www.greatfallsrescue.webs.com
The Commedia Rapunzel June 14 – 23 Columbia Children’s Theatre
In the zany tradition of last year’s hilarious hit “The Commedia Cinderella,” the Spaghetti and Meatball Players are back! Join Columbine, Rosetta, Pantalone, Punchin, and Arlequino as they present the timeless tail of fancy footwear. With lots of physical comedy, audience interaction, and surprises, this hilarious (and slightly non-traditional) production will delight children and adults of all ages! For more information and showtimes, visit the website below. www.columbiachildrenstheatre.com
Festival of Flowers June 20 – 23 Greenwood, SC
The fourth weekend of June will prove to be most entertaining for all ages. The George W. Park Seed Company’s famous Trail Gardens, featuring over with 1500 varieties of annuals, perennials and vegetables, will be open to the public. Tour the private gardens of local residents, or visit the craft, art and photo shows, one of the best in the southeast. Join us for more than 35 events including sports, concerts, tours and wonderful family fun! www.scfestivalofflowers.org
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Our Camps are Cool! Don’t miss the opportunity to keep your child’s brain engaged during their vacation. EDDIE s Summer Camp EdVenture features exciting hands-on activities that will have your camper learning and loving it. Spaces are limited! Summer Camp: June 3-August 9 ®
For more details and to register, visit www.edventure.org. 211 Gervais Street Columbia South Carolina
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women
by Jamie Lober
photos by Robert Patrick Image Design
Your Morning Friends
ERIC and HEATHER of 89.7 WMHK
E
ric and Heather are hosts at 89.7 WMHK radio and the shoes fit them perfectly. Eric tells that he has two children, is married for twentythree years and has been in radio since he was sixteen. His dad got him a job at the local country western station but since he always had a relationship with Jesus, Eric prayed for an opportunity to get involved with contemporary Christian music that better aligned with his beliefs. “The company I was working for said that they were doing some restructuring and did not need me anymore but even though I did not have a job to go to, I knew that God had answered my prayer because he put me on a different path and I am here today at 89.7 WMHK,” said Eric. Eric finds the best part of his job to be the stories that he hears from callers. “This is something I can go home everyday and feel proud (to be a part of) just knowing that my children know the songs that they play and sing them and they know what their dad does and that is rewarding,” said Eric. His radio partner, Heather, also wound up on a different path than she originally planned. Having been raised
in a farm community, Heather hoped to be a television producer working in news. After several jobs in various cities including one that she considered to be a huge mistake, Heather walked out the door, prayed and waited for God to guide her. This meant moving and eventually coming to work at 89.7 WMHK. Heather was so sure God was calling, and she knew she had to answer that call. “God said he needed me here to do a job here and I felt very strongly called since God obviously orchestrated this and made this happen, so it is kind of hard to argue with that,” said Heather. Heather describes herself as “brand spanking new” and has only been with the station for two
whole months, though she and the rest of the staff cannot imagine representing any other station. “We are a family-friendly station and see it lived out in every staff member, just letting kids be kids and encouraging them to be silly and have a great time is what I appreciated,” said Heather. The community is grateful to have access to a faith-based station like 89.7 WMHK. “Radio stations have a unique niche because people say my radio station is 89.7 WMHK; they do not say my television channel; they kinda take ownership of that radio station which is really a tribute to what music means to that person,” said Lori Duncan, editor at Lexington Woman Magazine and Midlands Woman Magazine. Families can place trust in the
voices and sounds of 89.7 WMHK and feel strongly that they want future generations growing up with them as well. “It is more than just a great station; you do not have to be worried about what is going to come out of someone’s mouth because it is something that you consider a ministry and not just a job,” said Duncan. This is one of the many reasons our magazine felt inclined to raise awareness about the station. “The fact that I can get in my car and turn the radio up and not play the role of a “sensor” is something I feel good about.” Listen across the Midlands at 89.7 WMHK or online at www. WMHK.com.
www.midlandswoman.com
Let’s Talk
If I Could Turn Back Time by Pastor Mark Crumpton
A
s I prayed about what the Lord would have me write for this article the Lord woke me up in the middle of the night with the thought of a mother full of regrets. It is a woman who’s name is not mentioned we simply know her as “Lot’s wife”. Gen 19:26 But his wife looked back from behind him, and she became a pillar of salt. (KJV) As a pastor I know that we may preach on this passage from many different angles however the simple reality is that this woman was a mother. A mother who “looked back” in deep emotional distress; a mother who was leaving some of her children behind in a land full of regrets. I think it is often very easy for us to look at the life of someone else and see very clearly their mistakes but when it is us too often we don’t see them so clearly until after we have made them. In life we all make
mistakes. The tragedy is not that we make mistakes in life or even as a parent. The tragedy is that many will wait until it is too late to turn around. I can not help but wonder what might have been if this mother would have turned around years earlier. I believe it may have saved her family. There was a very popular song in the late 1980’s called “If I could turn back time”. I am sure it was so popular in large part because all of us can relate. All of us have done things or said things we wished we had not. In life we all make mistakes. The good news is that no one expects you to be perfect. I want you to know that you
don’t have to live in a land full of regrets. Friends we can’t turn back time we can only go forward. You have time today to turn around and make some things right before it is too late. It is not too late to ask forgiveness and it is not too late to forgive someone that hurt you. I have already preached too many funerals where I witnessed someone “look back” with regret after it is too late. “To err is human, to forgive, divine.” — Alexander Pope
I think it is often very easy for us to look at the life of someone else and see very clearly their mistakes but when it is us too often we don’t see them so clearly until after we have made them.
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women
I don’t know who this is for; but I know that the Lord cares enough about you and your family to wake me up in the middle of the night. Oh, how He Loves You! John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (KJV) Bishop Mark Crumpton, Pastor of Lexington Church of God 1228 S. Lake Dr., Lexington, SC 29073 (803) 957-6675 Visit www.LexCOG.com or find us on Facebook
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WINTER 2013 COMPLIMENTARY
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CELEBRATING, MOTIVATING, AND EDUCATING WOMEN
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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women
3
ENTARY
TM
Book Your Next Stay in Charleston
at the Hyatt Place Charleston Airport/Convention Center by Lori Samples Duncan
I
recently traveled to Charleston to the awards ceremony of a statewide competition for DECA. I had the pleasure of staying at the Hyatt Place Charleston Airport/Convention Center on this visit and I wanted share a little with you about my experience. From the moment I arrived, the staff of the Hyatt Place was courteous and professional. When I received my key card, I was also asked if their assistance was needed for anything else. I was given a rundown of the hotels amenities; a business center equipped with computers, a gym, and a swimming pool were among a few of those. The room was clean and spacious. Everything appeared new and modern. My accommodations were more than satisfactory, and I was just yards away from the convention center where the event I was scheduled to be was held.
There was a convention in town for gymnasts that coincided with the DECA competition and the hotel was to capacity. The traffic around the convention center was maddening, but I didn’t have to be concerned since The Hyatt shuttled me both to and from the event. The driver was professional and pleasant. The following morning, I was in a rush to get back to Lexington, so time was precious. The onsite hot breakfast – with healthy optionstook the need for a quick satisfactory breakfast out of the equation.
From the moment I arrived, the staff of the Hyatt Place was courteous and professional.
I know as a traveler, in certain hotels, we expect certain things. Two important things that you can’t always count on are the quality of
staff and attention to anticipating the needs of their patrons. This Hyatt is an excellent choice on both accounts. Thank you so much Hyatt Place Charleston Airport/Convention Center for an enjoyable visit. I will be seeing you again soon! For more information or to make your next reservation, call (843) 725-4010 or visit their website at www.HyattPlaceCharlestonAirport.com. They are located at 3234 West Montague Avenue, North Charleston. www.midlandswoman.com
11
Let’s Talk
AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL
Victoria Henley
by Lori Samples Duncan
V
ictoria Henley wasn’t given the prestigious title of America’s Next Top Model via the reality show starring supermodel Tyra Banks, but that hasn’t stopped her from moving forward to accomplish her goals. Never really the quintessential pageant girl, Victoria was actually a “Tom Boy” before her first pageant — Little Miss Pulpwood — in her hometown of Colquitt, Georgia. After much prompting from her grandmother, she finally agreed to enter the contest. While Victoria doesn’t necessarily recommend pageants for everyone, she attributes her pageant experience with providing her confidence to speak in front of others. “Ultimately I am grateful for that one experience,” says Victoria, “but then those full glitz beauty pageants were never really my thing.” Animals have always been a big part of her life, as her parents ran a veterinary clinic in Colquitt, where even in the small southern Georgia town, Victoria had a passion for the entertainment industry. With her first subscription to Vogue at the age of eight and runway lessons around the same time, one might say that Victoria Henley was destined to be in magazines. “It was very odd for me to grow up in an agrarian community and have such a compelling interest in something that is so completely opposite from my environment,” she points out. “But my parents were always very supportive and encouraged me to pursue my passion.” While she travels so often that she doesn’t get to spend much time in Colquitt (she was in Columbia for a fashion shoot when we spoke), it is still her home base, and Victoria finds much comfort
12
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
in the supportive network that she has at home. Since appearing on the show, Victoria has been able to use the perks of the show to do things she has always done in her dreams, including traveling all over the US working runway shows for international designers and a recent stint at Miami Fashion Week. If you happened to catch Victoria on America’s Next Top Model, you may not have seen the very best of her personality. “The bad thing about reality shows,” says Victoria, “is the editing for ratings, where situations are set up, people are encouraged to fight. To be honest, watching myself on the season of America’s Next Top Model, some of the episodes were so over edited, that I was in shock at some of the things I saw…I definitely felt like I was pigeon holed into being one dimensional – the home schooled mother hen.” From her experience on the show, Victoria was able to learn some things, one very important that I hope we can all learn earlier rather than later: words are just words. “Everyone has their own opinion and you cannot let others’ opinions affect you in a detrimental way. You
Real Women
must determine the core of who you are and no matter what hardships you face, you must always be true to yourself and never betray your code of ethics.” Another thing Victoria learned? Not to take herself so seriously. “Reality shows make you feel so silly,” she states. “I wish that sometimes I had just thrown my head back and laughed at the situation. That is my advice to women: take time to laugh every day.” (See Proverbs 17:22, “A merry heart does good like medicine.”) With a title like “America’s Next Top Model,” I asked Victoria if she feels the pressure to always look her best. She admitted that her industry can be very superficial, and the pressure to look good is certainly there. But she says that she has breakouts just like everyone else. “Anytime you are feeling insecure about yourself, you just have to bring yourself back to reality and say, ‘This is me and I love myself for who I am,’” says Victoria. Admittedly a Type A personality, she reminds herself to ease up, regroup, and remember that everything is going to be okay. Sound familiar? But Victoria feels like being pretty is a state of mind, which starts with
the idea of not measuring up to some unreal standard, creating a negative atmosphere and negative energy that resonates with others. “In that way,” says Victoria, “it is not good to think in a negative way about yourself. We all have those days. Instead, I try to shift my focus to my blessings. I have such a wonderful family, two legs on which to stand, and I have done a lot of good in my life. We all have things we can be proud of.” A bright young lady with an obviously bright future, Victoria Henley was a delight to talk to. It is nice to see that even in the bustle of Hollywood, she remains grounded and committed to her values. But you know I couldn’t let her go without asking her for some beauty tips. (You’re welcome.) This is what she said: • Drink plenty of water • Get enough sleep • Always wash your face at night • She uses a Mint Julip (like the drink) Mask before bed (found at natural pharmacies or Ulta Beauty Supply) We all know that beauty starts from the inside and goes outward. Here’s to the beautiful woman YOU are!
Photo: KLinh Evelyn Grace Photography Stylist: Tyson Keanum
www.midlandswoman.com
13
by Lori Samples Duncan
HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Eddie is turning 10 years old 14
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Real Women
E
dVenture Children’s Museum, the dream of mothers Sue Williams and Katherine Frankstoneen, emerged into its fully formed museum on November 8, 2003. Credited with bringing the concept of the museum to life, Catherine Wilson Horne, President and CEO, has been with EdVenture from the beginning.
“The past 10 years have culminated into a decade of record breaking accomplishments and recognitions that we never dreamed we could achieve,” says Catherine. Some of those things include being recognized as one of the top children’s museums in the country by numerous magazines and lists, and being the recipient of the 2011 National Medal for Museum Service from the Institute of Museum and Library Services in Washington, DC. “We have also been embraced by this community and by South Carolina. People know EdVenture, and they know EDDIE!” The largest children’s museum in the South, EdVenture boasts of 92,000 square feet of turbocharged learning and fun. Designed for children 12 and younger, it is perfect for families, teachers, caregivers, and the child in all of us. There are nine spectacular galleries, a library, classrooms and laboratories, the museum store, and last but not least, the world’s largest child. The first thing visitors see upon walking through the doors is EDDIE®, the museum’s centerpiece. A 40-foot, 17.5 ton, hands-on exhibit, EDDIE® is large enough for children and adults to climb through. You can explore the inner workings of the human body as you climb his vertebrae to his brain, crawl through his heart, bounce around his tummy, and slide out his intestines. For the past several years, the imaginative folks at EdVenture have been rebuilding and expanding exhibits, and adding new ones. The Blooming Butterflies exhibit, open May through October, is an outside butterfly garden where kids can witness butterflies emerging from their chrysalises and spreading their wings for the first time. They have also added both human health and pet education exhibits. In Body Detectives, visitors explore the science behind the prevention of chronic disease, specifically heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. In Wags & Whiskers, children learn about responsible pet care by taking on the role of pet owner, veterinarian or groomer. With Farm to Fork exhibits, guests can visit the Speckled Hen Market, The Busy
Bee Farm and the Lil Spot Diner, or they can go to the new cooking lab called Taste Buds. With even more big plans coming up, including a waterfront addition to EdVenture, this fun learning park is sure to be a family favorite adventure for years to come. EdVenture also rents out its space to businesses, associations, and individuals for birthday parties, baby showers, meetings and weddings. “It is amazing how many brides like to come down the slide of EDDIE,” says Catherine with a smile. “I think being a children’s museum in the 21st century is really one of the greatest opportunities in terms of being able to reinforce that learning should be a joy and a passion. The most important lesson we can teach children is one of curiosity, because curiosity is what stimulates someone to work a little harder in a subject that is challenging or they do not feel natural affinity for. So, I think we are creating curious kids who are willing to try different things, building confidence and the willingness to take risks.” The hands-on learning approach at EdVenture offers children and their families the opportunity to explore, and then reflect on what they have done. EdVenture is one of the very few places in South Carolina where the child is the primary audience. At a very basic level, the public goes to EdVenture and has a great time. “It is years later when you think, ‘Oh! I remember extracting my DNA for the first time at EdVenture, and now I am a research scientist,’” says Catherine. “I can remember the museums I went to as a child, and the experiences my family provided for me that bring me to the other thing that is important to us at EdVenture. That is accessibility. Access is not just about location and convenient parking. It is about making sure that we are financially and geographically accessible to audiences. As part of our 10th year, we began a program called Yes, Every Child that allows $1 admission for families receiving SNAP benefits. That touches hundreds of thousands of individuals in South Carolina. All they have to do is present their benefits card for free admission
to EdVenture any day of the week, any time of year. “This is only made possible through donor dollars from people who understand that this type of experience can be life changing for a child and an adult who might not otherwise have this opportunity. So we work to raise money to offset expenses associated with serving each visitor and donors have been very supportive of this effort. To celebrate 10 years, EdVenture is focusing on 10 Things for the 10th Year…exciting additions to their exhibits and programs. Starting in the first part of 2013, the museum began opening new exhibits like the Taste Buds Cooking Lab where families can explore the methods of cooking and nutritious meal preparation under the guidance of a real chef. EdVenture also recently added a gigantic crane to the Building Boom exhibit and are scheduled to open Make Shop in June There will also be major public events, such as Countdown to Kindergarten on August 9 which provides rising kindergartens and their families with a free evening of museum exploration and an opportunity to prepare for the first day of school. EdVenture will also be hosting South Carolina’s first Maker Faire on June 1. During First FriYays at EdVenture, the museum will be staying open late on the first Friday of June, July, August, and September, and a family friendly concert on their terrace will be part of each evening. They are redesigning the popular Dalmatian Station exhibit in the winter, hosting a tenth birthday ball for adults on November 7, and a Story Book Ball for children and their families on November 8. That’s just the tip of the iceberg. Visit their website at www.edventure. org to find out more about the fun things going on at EdVenture during this very special year. Even though my family and I are “frequent flyers” at EdVenture, I suspect this year we will be visiting even more often than normal. Happy Birthday EDDIE®!
www.midlandswoman.com
15
STEPHANIE McMILLAN and RICHARD CULLIVER
Meet the inspiring duo who has won our hearts
by Lori Samples Duncan photos by Robert Patrick Image Design
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Real Women Midlands Woman c e l e b r a t e s t h e s u r v i vo r i n yo u
Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
Celebrating the
Survivor in You!
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month or so ago, I ran an ad for a fundraiser at McDonalds of White Knoll. The fundraiser was for a little boy named Richard Culliver. The ad included the line, “putting the unity in community.” Although it wasn’t the first time I’d heard about Richard and his family, this little phrase kept running through my mind. I had been following Richard on Facebook for months. While I don’t usually follow these kinds of feeds because as a mother, it can break your heart, Richard’s page was different. It included little stories about Richard’s day and things he was doing with his family and friends, in spite of being diagnosed with a rare brain tumor. Richard Culliver’s mother, Stephanie, said, “Three hundred children a year doesn’t seem like a rare disease to me, but when you consider that is worldwide, I guess that is pretty rare.” This disease has already taken the lives of eight children this year and several others are fading fast. It was mid-morning when I visited, and Richard was watching one of my favorite movies, “Dolphin Tale.” This little man looked so handsome in his blue shirt and when I conveyed that to him, he signed “thank you” back to me. His knowledge of sign language was one of the many things that impressed me about Richard that day. I asked Stephanie about it and she explained that when her children were little she wanted a way to communicate with them. She had babysat a deaf child when she was a teenager and fell in love with signing, so she taught her children. Some people choose to never see God, mostly because they don’t look for him, but isn’t it amazing that Stephanie was chosen to be Richard’s mother? She taught him a language that he can now use to communicate when his tumor has made it difficult for him to speak legibly at times. He spoke to his mother many times during our interview and she understood every word. I was able to pick up on some of what he was saying, but not all of it. It was October 4th, 2012 when Stephanie’s life was changed forever. “I had taken them running with me because I was trying to get healthy. I wanted to get the kids involved because it would make it easier for me to go if they went with me. So we went and he kept swaying while we were running. I was thinking he is a 7 year old kid that does not want to participate, so we went home. At home, he did pushups, wall sits, and all of his little exercises. I noticed that his eyes looked a little strange, and there again I thought maybe he
just saw someone else doing that and kids pick up other children’s habits. So I watched him for a couple of days. Two weeks prior, he had fallen and gotten a huge knot on his head I took him to the ER thinking maybe he had a concussion because he threw up twice before we got there, and then one more time before we left. The doctor did not think he had a concussion, and advised me, ‘You can do a CT Scan if you want to, but they have been proven to be unhealthy for children if they do not need it.’ So I decided against it. We went home and Richard woke up like nor-
She feels that God was preparing her for Richard’s journey long before his diagnosis. mal, so we went on with life.” Fast forward two weeks. “I went to school on Wednesday morning and he went out to mileage club to run. I was sitting in the classroom with a teacher and the next thing you know, Richard comes in crying. He had fallen down again, so I left him at school and went on to work. It was just gnawing at me and I called the nurse line at my insurance company. She said this is one of those things that I would say take him to the doctor. So I turn around and take him back to the ER to have a CT Scan. They saw a tumor on the CT Scan.” Richard was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor called Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma. It was her job with FedEX that brought Stephanie to Lexington County. Stephanie shared her
thoughts about Lexington after arriving, “I am going to get some roots and stay around for a little while. I have absolutely fallen in love with this place.” She feels that God was preparing her for Richard’s journey long before his diagnosis. There was a terrible car accident, “I was working 14 hour days when I had that car accident. I had just taken over a small business and I only had one team member. She quit. So I worked at the store from open until close. This meant the kids were at daycare during that time. I came back to work after being in a wheelchair from the accident. I knew God had a plan for me; wasn’t sure exactly what it was, but sure He had one. Looking back, He knew that I needed to slow down and enjoy my kids. I went back to work and decided not to work those long hours and spending that much time away from my kids ever again. I have thoroughly enjoyed the last five years in their life and I am like, ‘Okay God. Now I get it. Okay. Thanks for slowing me down.” Reading Richards Journey had given me a glimpse into the faith of his mother already, so I wasn’t surprised to hear the strength within her comes from above. Stephanie could have chosen to take a different approach with Richard’s diagnosis, but instead she tries to make as many memories with him as she can. Richard has gotten to enjoy many things that he might not have otherwise had a chance to do. These memories are as important for her other children to Stephanie as they are for Richard. “You know there are moments in your life that are hard and you absolutely could give up. People would understand if you just crawled into a cave and spent your time in sadness. I know people would even understand that, but I have always been an extremely positive person. Sometimes to a fault. Because I will always try to see the best in everyone, it has come back to slap me in the face a few times. www.midlandswoman.com
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Celebrating the
Survivor in You!
Stephanie and Richard Even through this, it has caused some hardships in my personal life, but I believe fully that everything that happens to you, you can take a positive message out of it, and just live your life the best way you possibly can, you are going to be okay. God is not going to leave you there to suffer and He is going to put amazing people in your life to help you, and that is what he has done. I cannot imagine what we would have done if we did not live here in Lexington County. All of these people being so kind to us has provided so much love and support.” There were moments during this interview that tears were shed. Tears because Stephanie is overwhelmed by the kindness of strangers, tears because both of us were overcome with emotion about what is an unfair diagnosis for a seven year old boy, tears for the strength of a mother who is simply doing everything she can to make her son’s life as wonderful as it can be for however long that may be. I asked Stephanie if she wanted so share anything with you, our reader, about what this experience has taught her. This is what she had to say, “It has helped me realize because of the world we
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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
‘I cannot imagine what we would have done if we did not live here in Lexington County. All of these people being so kind to us has provided so much love and support.’ live in, you forget that there is so much good. We are so saturated with the bad that happens across the world every day. When I started writing and sharing our personal story, I started on my personal page. My friends started his Facebook Page, and we just copied and pasted over it from my page, so it was not even something I thought about when I began. Sharing our journey was just something I needed to do. I see so many people — people who are in the horseback riding community, the bike community, sports fanatics; so many different people across the world. Richard has gotten packages from as far
Real Women
as Italy and Australia. And our story is proof that there is way more good than there is bad. We do not often look for it. We are so numb to all the tragedy and hardships that we focus on those things, and we put ourselves in fear of what could be, causing us to forget to look around and actually see the beauty around us that is so much better.”
Stephanie has chosen to live her life in the moment. Many times on Facebook, I will see her thanking God for another day with her son. I wonder how much richer all of our children’s lives would be if we appreciated every moment of every day the way this mother does. Pray for Richard and his family. If you would like to know ways you can help Richard, or if you would like to follow him on Facebook, you can do so at Richards Journey at www.facebook. com/RichardsJourney.
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Celebrating the
Survivor in You!
MAKING EACH DAY COUNT by Beth McCrary
photo by Robert Patrick Image Design
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ince their son Nathaniel’s diagnosis with a cancerous brain tumor in December of 2012, the Fournel family has learned the important difference between counting each day and making each day count. Stephanie and Daniel agree that their faith has most definitely become more important and that their relationship with God has grown tremendously. “Although we may not understand why, we know that God’s love is immeasurable. He is in full control and he has a purpose. I pray that God provides us with the wisdom we need to use this trial to glorify him.” The Fournels are one of three Lexington area families with a child battling a form of brain cancer. Their son Nathaniel was diagnosed with localized pineal germinoma which is very treatable and has a 90% cure rate. Nathaniel recently underwent a second two-part surgery at NYU Langone on March 20th. His doctor felt a better script could not have been written after surgery when pathology revealed that Nathaniel would be able to receive low dose radiation treatment. “Daniel and I both said to each other that we did not write this script. God knew the plans he had for Nathaniel before he was born.”
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14th, his 14th birthday. He will continue to have MRI’s as well as lab work indefinitely. He will also be followed for the next 5 years as part of a sister study to the clinical trial he is currently participating in to track any possible neuro-cognitive deficits from treatment.
The Fournels will begin traveling to Jacksonville, FL for Nathaniel to receive 20 treatments of Proton Beam Radiation Therapy. Nathaniel’s last treatment will be on May
While balancing various doctors’ appointments, MRI’s, lab work, audiology screens, and traveling for medical care, Nathaniel is receiving homebound instruction from Mary Carpenter, one of the 5 teachers nominated for Teacher of the Year for Lexington County School District 1. Mrs. Carpenter says, “Nathaniel continues to be the hardworking student he has always been. I have been absolutely amazed at his courage and perseverance through his journey. He is always upbeat and spirited, determined to maintain his learn-
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ing and excellent grades. Again, he simply amazes me!” The Fournels feel that no matter the outcome of teacher of the year, that Mrs. Carpenter will always be their choice for teacher of the year. Throughout the many changes in his young life, Nathaniel has remained the same outgoing and loving kid. He is humbled, yet a bit uncomfortable to be on the receiving end of someone needing support. “It has been hard to adjust and sometimes difficult to find the words to show my appreciation. My entire family is so appreciative of the community coming together to support me!” Two upcoming opportunities to support Nathaniel’s family are Friday, May 3rd at Chick-Fil-A of Lexington and Saturday, May 18th at the Country Club of Lexington.
‘Although we may not understand why, we know that God’s love is immeasurable.’
Just mention Nathaniel’s name and Chick-Fil-A will donate 15% of the proceeds to the Swim4Nathaniel charity. The Swim4Nathaniel event at the Country Club will include food, a silent auction, swimming with USC swim team members, games, and a DJ. For more information about events and to purchase awareness bracelets and t-shirts please visit www.swim4nathaniel.com.
Celebrating the
Survivor in You!
Kennedy Branham:
PUTTING OTHERS
FIRST
by Beth McCrary
photo by K. Dalton
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ach Paquette’s favorite memory of playing baseball at Lexington High School is not the time he scored the winning run or made a great catch in left field. While those are special memories, his favorite is not a personal or team accomplishment on the field. photo by Steve Headde
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Zach’s best memory of playing varsity baseball is the time he, his teammates and coaches shaved their heads in support of Kennedy Branham’s battle to fight brain cancer. Their simple act of support during the 2012 season speaks volumes about the impact Kennedy is making in her community. Fifteen months after her diagnosis with glioblastoma multiforme brain cancer on her 13th birthday, Kennedy continues to inspire all who know her story. Her current treatment regimen includes 15 day cycles of port infused and oral chemo to fight glio, a type of cancer rarely seen in children. Very few clinical trials exist to treat it in female children her age which makes it extremely hard to predict results. At the conclusion
of each clinical trial, an MRI is taken to determine what happens next. For Kennedy and her family it means a lot of unknowns and lots of waiting. Her last two MRI’s have shown that the tumor has remained stable. No growth in size, yet no decrease.
Pageant where she was crowned 2nd runner up for 8th grade and also won Miss Congeniality. She maintains a full schedule that includes her treatments, homebound schooling, and appearances at the many awareness and fundraising events hosted in her honor.
Kennedy’s mom Erin says, “Glio is a beastly and aggressive form of cancer. It is unpredictable and there are so many unknowns. These are the hardest parts of the battle.” She goes on to say the best part of this journey is watching the amazing transformation of who Kennedy has become. Once shy and reserved, she is now a social butterfly who is comfortable and confident with everyone she meets. Kennedy recently competed in Lexington Middle School’s Miss Wildcat
Over 300 people participated in the Run 4 Kennedy 5K hosted by the Lexington High School Varsity Baseball Team this past February 9th. The team, led by head coach Brian Hucks, has once again dedicated their season and pursuit of the 4A State Championship to Kennedy. Their motto is “Finish It For Kennedy”. Proceeds from the 5K enabled the team to present Kennedy’s family with a check for $10,000.00 to offset her medical expenses.
Through all of this Kennedy’s focus remains her faith, her family and others. She surprised everyone at the recent St. Baldrick’s event in the Vista where she decided to shave her newly grown in hair in support of other kids fighting cancer. She told her mom, “It’s not about me, it’s about them.” Every week at the cancer clinic, she trades in her points for stuffed animals to give to other kids who are newly diagnosed and fearful. Such grace, maturity and compassion is rarely seen in teenagers. For our town of Lexington, Kennedy Branham is not your typical teen. Follow Kennedy’s journey at www. facebook.com/pray4kennedy.
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PALMETTO IMAGING Child Tested, Mother Approved
photo by Robert Patrick Image Design
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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating
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Health & Wellness
W
hen Midlands parent Liz Jackson’s daughter was diagnosed with Sotos Syndrome at nine months of age her life became filled with visits to the hospital and doctors’ offices. Sotos syndrome is a neurological disorder that affects muscle tone and some body structure. For daughter Elise, that meant radiology exams ranging from sinus CTs all the way to MRIs of the full spine. Liz saw first-hand how intimidating the hospital can be to a child, especially one with a disability. You’d be hard-pressed to find a mom or dad who doesn’t want what’s best for their child. Parents refuse to sacrifice quality, no matter the cost, when it comes to the health of their child. Waiting a day or more for an MRI or CT can seem unreasonable; waiting up to a week for the radiologist’s evaluation is even worse. But when it comes to diagnostic imaging, you have a choice.
Kowalski, Dr. Paul Aitchison, Dr. Perry Edenfield, and Dr. Rexroad are synonymous with Palmetto Imaging. Their immediate accessibility to the referring office is what sets them apart from larger radiology groups. “Dr. Daum calls me back almost before the patient arrives back at my office with a call report. This helps me with my decision making process,” Castles said.
Palmetto Imaging is a local outpatient diagnostic imaging facility that offers patients an accurate and reasonable alternative to the hospital. With three locations in the Columbia area, patients can be seen same or next day and for 40-60% less than the charges of area hospitals; radiology reports are guaranteed in 24 hours.
As an outpatient facility, Palmetto Imaging has the advantage of welcoming patients into a more relaxed environment. The waiting room is more like that of a doctor’s office, not a hospital, alleviating the anxiety of the child and parent. “Palmetto Imaging is child-friendly;
“The hospital environment didn’t feel as warm and welcoming as visiting Palmetto Imaging,” Jackson said. Jackson and her now 19 year-old daughter have returned to Palmetto Imaging over the years because of the access, convenient parking, familiar faces, and the fact that she always left with images in-hand. “The staff is always willing to work with us to accommodate my daughter’s needs.” Dr. Guy Castles with Pediatric Associates has been practicing in Columbia, SC for over 22 years. He has been sending his pediatric and adolescent patients to Palmetto Imaging for as long as he can remember. He believes that accuracy is the most important thing to consider when referring a patient for diagnostic imaging. “An accurate report is a must and we are certain we will get that (with Palmetto Imaging.) The touchy-feely things are good, but if you can’t trust the diagnosis it doesn’t matter how nice you are to the patient.” With on-site radiologists at each of their three locations, Palmetto Imaging provides convenient radiologist accessibility – a big selling point for referring doctors. Dr. Robin Daum-
daughters. Her four-year-old was seen for a CT sinus and her two-year-old had a wrist X-ray. “I was pleasantly surprised by how they handled small children.” Wilson’s girls have also been scanned at the hospital and she said the experience there was a lot less personal; the waiting room was big and the exam room was cold. “Palmetto Imaging was a lot less intimidating. The girls were made to feel as comfortable as possible and we got the results back quickly,” Wilson said. Dr. Castles says he would recommend Palmetto Imaging to other pediatricians and parents. “I don’t have any concerns about choosing Palmetto Imaging over the hospital for routine studies. If I think the patient is going to be admitted or if the patient needs sedation, I would choose the hospital. But for basic testing that doesn’t require a pediatric radiologist, which most routine studies don’t, I choose outpatient.”
‘Palmetto Imaging is child-friendly; they aren’t as scary as the hospital with a big admissions area.’ they aren’t as scary as the hospital with a big admissions area,” Castles said. And as the father of six, Dr. Castles knows the importance of making children and parents feel secure in their healthcare. “My 16-year-old daughter was a patient (at Palmetto Imaging) last week. She said the visit was as smooth as can be – the tech explained everything to her, including the contrast that she would receive and how it would make her feel. If you can make my needle-phobic daughter comfortable, I have no reservations about sending my patients there.” In fact, Palmetto Imaging has seen almost everyone in Dr. Castles’ family – “from age five to my 89year-old dad.”
“I don’t think we’ve ever had a bad experience. (Palmetto Imaging) provides accurate reporting and financial integrity; they are clearly a wise choice,” Castles said. Palmetto Imaging has been a part of the Midlands for almost twenty years. And as the Midlands’ leader in outpatient diagnostic imaging, Palmetto Imaging offers patients a sensible solution for MRIs, CTs, X-rays and Ultrasounds. They accept patients as young as two and welcome any questions you might have about their services. “I completely trust the care of my family to Palmetto Imaging,” Jackson confirmed.
Stacey Wilson, Midlands parent, has trusted Palmetto Imaging to care for both her young www.midlandswoman.com
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Health & Wellness
Sometimes...
You Need A Little Help at Home by Lori Samples Duncan photo by Clark Berry Photography
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ometimes, you could just use a little extra help. Whether it is the mother who just came home from the hospital with new twins, or the 92 year-old grandfather who is still able to live on his own, we could all benefit from a little extra help sometimes. BeWell Home Services provides just that: non-medical home care. Providing assistance with daily living (i.e., personal hygiene, bathing, dressing, and toileting), medication reminders, transportation to medical appointments, running errands, grocery shopping, light house cleaning and laundry services, BeWell can help with a plethora of personal and family needs. I sat down with the management team at BeWell to get a better understanding of their services and how they can help our readers. Across the state, as ministry of Lutheran Homes of South Carolina, BeWell has offices in the Upstate, Midlands, and Lowcountry to serve readers and their families. While in many instances, the primary goal of BeWell is to allow the individual to live independently and safely as long as they can, BeWell also works in conjunction with Lutheran Homes and other agencies when a client is already under medical care. “For instance,” says Heather Sessions Brazell, Community Outreach Director at BeWell Home Services and Trinity on Laurens in Aiken, “Say your grandmother is in the hospital and your family needs a break, but you don’t want to leave her there unattended. We could come in and stay through the night until the next family member comes in.”
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Home Services in Columbia, “and they have a urinary tract infection, and you are uncomfortable leaving them because they had a bad night the night before. We would come in and sit with them one-on-one, providing that special care that a large facility could not.”
ship between client and caregiver is important, and they work very hard to pair together personalities that they think will be a good fit. Clients are given the opportunity to interview potential caregivers in order to determine who will best suit their needs. With 135
The more I talked with management at BeWell, the more I realized that their services really are for everyone.
“Or your family member is in a rehab facility,” adds Cathi Cooper, Program Director for BeWell
BeWell also provides memory support training for their staff so that they can best provide services for persons with Alzheimer’s disease and related concerns. They look at challenging behaviors and try to determine whether the incidences are circumstantial or if they may be tied to a deeper problem, and require the involvement of the family and physicians. BeWell understands that a caring relation-
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caregivers between the various areas, BeWell has enough staff to ensure that everyone is taken care of well. The more I talked with management at BeWell, the more I realized that their services really are for everyone. As a working mom whose husband works in the evenings, I am often overwhelmed and even torn (i.e., baseball prac-
tice in one venue, football in another – how do you choose). I realize that I could use BeWell to help me with these errands. They can help cancer patients who need companionship on trips to chemotherapy or new moms freshly home from the hospital who do not have other family to help. In some cases, there may be assistance available. For instance, the Alzheimer’s Association provides a $500 voucher to people whose doctor has signed off on a dementia diagnosis and they can use that $500 voucher for respite care or they can use it for in-home assistance. More than a warm body, the staff at BeWell provide companionship to their clients and loved ones who may be facing challenging situations, and just need a little help. If you find yourself needing a little help at home (wherever home is), give BeWell a call at (803) 251HOME (4663) or Toll free 1-877BeWell-3or visit us online BeWellHomeServices.org.
‘Or your family member is in a rehab facility,’ and they have a urinary tract infection, and you are uncomfortable leaving them because they had a bad night the night before. We would come in and sit with them one-on-one, providing that special care that a large facility could not. — Cathi Cooper
www.midlandswoman.com
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Professional (left to right) Sara B. Fisher, Barbara Willm, Elise Partin, Cynthia Cooper and Liz McMillan
Girl Scouts of South Carolina—
Mountains to Midlands Celebrated Five Local Women of Distinction
G
irl Scouts of South Carolina – Mountains to Midlands honored five women at its 20th Annual Women of Distinction Awards Dinner on Thursday evening, April 11.
Selected for their exemplary commitments to family, career and community, this year’s honorees are Cynthia “Cindy” Cooper, Vice President and Government Programs Compliance Officer, BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina; Sara B. Fisher, Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, NBSC; Liz McMillan, General Manager, Gamecock IMG Sports Marketing, University of South Carolina; Elise Partin, Mayor, City of Cayce; Barbara Willm, Vice President, Community Relations, Lexington County Health Services District.
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tive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina. States Kim Hutzell, President & CEO, Girl Scouts of South Carolina – Mountains to Midlands, “Although the personal and career stories of our honorees vary greatly, they each share the traits of strength, courage and compassion. Integrity, too, is a common theme in their stories. We couldn’t ask for better role models for our Girl Scouts.”
Cynthia “Cindy” Cooper, Esq.
The event was held at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center and the keynote speaker was former Women of Distinction honoree Judy Davis, Execu-
Cynthia “Cindy” Cooper, Esq. is the Vice President and Government Programs Compliance Officer for BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina (BCBSSC). She has held this position since May,
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2000, and is responsible for overseeing the company’s government programs subsidiaries compliance programs. Cooper earned her law
Carolina and American Bar Association. Her community leadership extends to serving as a board member for TriCenturion, Inc.,
‘Although the personal and career stories of our honorees vary greatly, they each share the traits of strength, courage and compassion.’ and undergraduate degrees from the University of South Carolina. She was a trial lawyer for five years prior to joining BCBSSC, practicing mainly in malpractice and products liability defense litigation. Cooper is a member of the South
Leadership South Carolina and the Cultural Council for Richland and Lexington Counties.
Sara B. Fisher
Sara B. Fisher has been the Senior Executive Vice President and Chief
Business & Web Directory Operating Officer of NBSC since 2003. She was named Secretary of the Board in 2008 and she has been with the company since 1993. Prior to joining NBSC, Fisher served in several management roles with South Carolina Federal Savings Bank, University of South Carolina System Credit Union and First National Bank. Her extensive community leadership currently includes serving on the Board of Trustees, Richland County Library Foundation; Director, South Carolina Independent Colleges & Universities; Member, Capital City Club Board of Governors, Executive Committee; and Board of Directors, South Carolina Chamber, Chairman of the Education Committee. Her honors include being recognized as a 2009 Woman of Influence by Columbia Business Monthly.
Liz McMillan
Liz McMillan is the General Manager, Gamecock IMG Sports Marketing at the University of South Carolina. She was first hired by USC as Associate Director of Corporate Relations in 1989. Two years later she moved to Athletics where she became the first female Assistant Athletic Director for Marketing and Promotions. In 1993, McMillan assumed her current position for Gamecock Sports Marketing, the Media Rights holder for the USC Athletics Department. She was the first female in the Southeastern Conference to hold this position and one of the first in the country. McMillan’s current community involvement includes serving as an Adjunct Professor, University of South Carolina Sports and Entertainment Department, and as an usher, Trenholm Road United Methodist Church. Her previous community leadership roles have included serving as a board member of Kappa Delta Alumni, Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital and the American Diabetes Association.
Elise Partin
Elise Partin has been the City of Cayce’s first female Mayor since November 2008. In addition, she serves on the Municipal Association of South Carolina’s Board of Directors, Lexington County’s Joint Municipal Water and Sewer Commission, the Lexington County Development Corporation and the River Alliance. She also serves as a board member for the Central Midlands Council of Government, and recently completed her term as President of the Lexington County Municipal Association. Mayor Partin holds a Masters degree in Public Health and she is an Adjunct Faculty member, University of South Carolina’s School of Public Health. In recognition of her many community contributions, Mayor Partin was named as one of Columbia Business Monthly’s 2011 Women of Influence.
Art & Entertainment Colonial Life Arena............................................................................. 9, 10 www.coloniallifearena.com
Barbara D. Willm
Palmetto Imaging..........................................................................................19 www.scdiag.com
Barbara D. Willm serves as Vice President, Community Relations for the Lexington County Health Services District. In her role, she is responsible for its Community Outreach efforts while representing the Lexington Medical Center (LMC) in the community. Willm has served the organization in several roles during the past 26 years. As Vice President, Community Medical Centers, she helped open all of LMC’s six community medical centers. Willm is active on the Greater Irmo Chamber of Commerce Board, serving as Chairman, 2002-2003, and was awarded their Ambassador of the Year award in 2005. A few of her other community leadership roles include serving as the immediate Past Chair of the Lexington Chamber of Commerce Board, and Past Chair of the Leadership Lexington County Board. She holds a BSN degree from the University of South Carolina.
EdVenture........................................................................................................6 www.edventure.org WMHK/89.7....................................................................................................2 www.wmhk.com Assisted Living BeWell Home Services............................................................................ 19 www.bewellhomeservices.org Laurel Crest......................................................................................................9 www.laurel-crest.com Children’s Therapy Carolina Behavior & Beyond................................................................... 9 www.carolinabehaviorandbeyond.com Furniture North Furniture Company....................................................................... 3 www.northfurniture.net Health Services Bee Healthy Medical Weight Loss........................................................... 6 www.beehealthyclinics.com Carolina Women’s Physicians.....................................................................10 www.carolinawomensphysicians.com
The Facial Aesthetic Center Medical Spa of Columbia..........................10 www.ColumbiaFace.com Landscaping Midlands Landscape................................................................................. 4 www.midlandslandscape.com Photography Clark Berry Photography............................................... Inside Back Cover www.clarkberry.com Robert Patrick Image Design........................................ Inside Front Cover www.rpimagedesign.com Shopping Mast General Store.................................................................................... 3 www.maststorecolumbia.com Thirty-One.......................................................................................................6 www.mythirtyone.com/248207
Don’t miss our Summer issue — coming soon! www.midlandswoman.com
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A Personal Note
I
t doesn’t seem like a full month since I sat down to pen a note to you. I have to say there are so many things that have happened this month that I could tell you about, but I find myself wanting to talk about my children. Can you imagine that? I always laugh when people say “Four? You have four children?” They look at me like I am an alien. I dare not share with them that I wanted more. My body just didn’t do pregnancy well, which is kind of funny considering it certainly had no trouble getting pregnant. It was the morning-afternoon- and evening sickness, and all the third trimester complications that were the problem. I guess that is why I am so fully aware of what a gift each one is to our family. I always thought pregnant women go home from the hospital 24 to 48 hours after giving birth with a healthy bundle of sweetness wrapped in a pink or blue blanket. That just isn’t always true. When Trey was born, he was five weeks early. It was 36 hours of hard labor and sheer exhaustion. He had a severe cephalhematoma and I was told there was a possibility he had brain damage. They believed his skull was cracked. Our hospital stay was 7 full days. He, of course, is completely healthy and currently Valedictorian of the Junior Class at WKHS. Needless to say, there was no brain damage. He broke his left clavicle coming through the birth canal and I had to leave him at the hospital the second night. It was snowing as we drove home. My eyes are watering as I write this because I tried to explain to my husband why I was crying so hard. “Honey, he is safe. He is in a hospital with the best trained staff to take care of him.” I know now he was just being strong for me. I wanted him to understand that for almost eight months Trey was a part of me and now I had to entrust him with strangers because I was well enough to go home, but he was not. The next day my pediatrician moved him to the children’s ward and gave me a bed in the room with him so I could nurse and bond with my new baby. The next time I left that hospital, it was with my son in my arms. Abby was different. She was right on time. She gave us quite a scare when the midwife discovered the cord was wrapped around her neck. She stopped breathing every time I pushed. However, the last big push, Julia reached down pulled the cord free, and I heard the sweet high pitched wail of my only little girl. ( I would grow accustomed to that sound as she was a colicky baby.) She also broke her collar bones coming out, but the only evidence of her trauma was a little jaundice and a blue face from her top lip up. I had to leave her, too, but Dr. Bailey sent her home the next night with Billie lights and me and my glow worm were together again. Colton was the easiest delivery: four hours and he scored an 8.5 on the Apgar. I was so happy. I was taking home my first baby within forty –eight hours of delivery. He looked really tan and I questioned the pediatrician at the time, because I had already had two jaundiced babies, but he assured me he was fine. A week later Colton was in the children’s hospital for jaundice. He was very sick. They talked about a lot of scary procedures and he had a little needle in his head. I prayed and begged God to help him. He did. We came home seven days later. Ryan was a surprise. Five weeks early, his lungs were underdeveloped and they said he had pneumonia. It was awful. I had to leave yet another baby at the hospital. I visited every day during the hours they allowed me to come. I talked to him and read him books as I had the others. Seven days old, he came home for the first time. I have often wondered how mothers of healthy babies can take them for granted. I do not know. You would think out of four, I would have had some better results. I believe with my whole heart, even as scary as it was, some mothers have it worse. Some mothers have it a lot worse.
photos by Clark Berry Photography
This article isn’t what I intended to write today when I sat down to pen this personal note. I was going to tell you about a birthday party that my family and some sweet friends gave me. I was going to tell you how Trey, Abby, and Colton sang at this party; about how even Ryan made a speech about his mom, and how proud I was watching my precious children stand up in a crowd of my friends and say the sweetest things about me. (I am sure I didn’t deserve most of it.) Instead, I want to tell you to be grateful. Be grateful for every moment that we have with our little ones, and our big ones. There are only so many moments in a lifetime. Make memories. Laugh. Love them. Enjoy them. Pray for them. Take care of them. Treasure them. They have so much to teach us.
Abby and Trey
Colton and Ryan
God Bless, I remember my mother’s prayers and they have always followed me. They have clung to me all my life. —Abraham Lincoln
Lori Samples Duncan
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