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Livingwell A SPECIAL PUBLICATION CREATED BY REPUBLIC MEDIA CUSTOM PUBLISHING

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HEALTHCARE NEWS YOU CAN USE FOR YOUR WHOLE FAMILY

NOVEMBER 2014

2 Affordable Care Act Open Enrollment | 3 HIPAA; Age and drug metabolism | 4 Help with pet caree | 66-77 Eve Events ents & ssupport upport groups

CHRONICPAIN, CHRONICPROBLEM

SPECIAL SECTION INSIDE

UNDERSTANDING ALZHEIMER’S

Treatments for the aches that ail you include medications, injections, devices and more

PRESENTED BY LIVINGWELL A-Z AND THE

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION DESERT SOUTHWEST CHAPTER

By Debra Gelbart

hronic pain — defined as pain that continues for at least six months — affects an estimated 100 million adults in the U.S., according to the Institute of Medicine, part of the National Academy of Sciences. The organization says as much as $635 billion is spent nationwide every year treating pain. “The general public doesn’t realize there are so many different therapies that can help with pain,” said Vance Inouye, N.D., a naturopathic doctor and an adjunct clinical professor at the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe.

A good day to quit

Nov. 20 is the American Cancer Society’s Great American Smokeout

By Elise Riley

he Great American Smokeout provides awareness that quitting smoking is going to help your health, according to Brittany Conklin, media relations manager for the American Cancer Society. “We’ll certainly be reaching out to the community and helping them get what they need to quit smoking,” she said.

ORAL MEDICATIONS

Help is available

Among the most often-used first-line treatments for short-term use are non-steroidal antiinflammatory medications and prescription narcotics. But because of side effects (and in the case of narcotics, potential dependency), most pain specialists will offer patients a variety of other treatments. “Patients who’ve been taking opiates (narcotics) may be at risk for breathing difficulties and central sleep apnea in addition to their daily function being compromised,” said Lisa Stearns, M.D., a pain anesthesiologist with the Center for Pain and Supportive Care in Phoenix.

Rick D’Elia

Lisa Stearns, M.D. (above), a pain anesthesiologist with the Center for Pain and Supportive Care in Phoenix, works with Gary Plummer of Peoria in refilling and reprogramming a spinal pump that helps him manage pain. The pump is embedded under the skin in his abdomen and refills are injected through the skin into the device.

INJECTIONS

Pain-relieving medications — including epidural and facet injections — are delivered directly to the location of the pain, explained Minesh Zaveri, D.O., an anesthesiologist who is the medical director of the Pain Center at St. Luke’s Medical Center in Phoenix and at Tempe St. Luke’s Hospital. Facet joints are positioned between each set of vertebrae in the spine and a pain-relieving injection into affected joints relieves inflammation and swelling. Injections also include Botox for migraine headaches, said Kirk Bowden, D.O., an anesthesiologist with Pain Management Associates at Hedley Orthopedic Institute in Mesa. Prolotherapy, or regenerative injection therapy, is the injection of natural substances such as dextrose in combination with mild local anesthetics into damaged or degenerated ligaments, tendons or joints “to simulate an acute injury without actual tissue insult,” said Paul Mittman, N.D., president and CEO of the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine. “This launches the body’s natural ability to heal itself.”

“People who have tried to quit need to know that it’s normal to have seven or eight attempts before you’re finally successful,” said Mary Kurth, a program director at the American Lung Association in Arizona.

“Smoking contributes to cancers of the mouth, lips, nasal cavity and sinuses, as well as organs — not just lungs, but cancers of the stomach, kidney and more.” —Brittany Conklin, American Cancer Society

Both Conklin and Kurth are former smokers — and Conklin lost her mother to lung cancer. Their experiences are part of what makes them so passionate about helping people quit. Both recommend calling the ASHLine, which is the Arizona Smokers’ Helpline. Funded by Tobacco Free Arizona and operated by the Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health at The University of Arizona in Tucson, the ASHLine offers coaching, tips and — most important — a friendly ear. “Their coaches are all based in Arizona,” Conklin said. “Most of them are former tobacco users — they know what you’re going through and can offer that perspective. They can set up a personalized quit plan and two weeks of nicotine replacement therapy to help you quit.”

Resources

CHRONIC PAIN MANAGEMENT, continued on page 5

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American Cancer Society Cancer: Cancer.org; 800-227-2345 American Lung Association, Arizona: LungArizona.org; 602-258-7505 Arizona Smoke-Free Living: AZSmokeFreeLiving.org ASHLine, the Arizona Smokers’ Helpline: ASHline.org; 800-556-6222 Freedom from Smoking, from the American Lung Association: FFSonline.org Quit for Life: An app to remind former smokers of milestones; downloadable for iOS or Android devices at QuitForLifeApp.com

Get Interested. Get Informed. Get Ready. If you are buying health insurance for the ﬁrst time or looking for a new plan, check out

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Open enrollment is almost here November 15, 2014 – February 15, 2015*

2 | Livingwell a-z | Wednesday, November 5, 2014

Affordable Care Act Open Enrollment

Open Enrollment runs from Nov. 15 to Feb. 15, 2015

By Debra Gelbart

he Open Enrollment period for purchasing health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace runs from Nov. 15 to Feb. 15, 2015. As important as these dates are, perhaps the sign-up deadline for coverage to begin Jan. 1, 2015 is more significant. That’s because for your coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to begin or renew on Jan. 1, you must enroll by 10 p.m. Arizona time (midnight Eastern Standard Time) on Dec. 15 of this year. Why? Coverage in 2015 begins on the first of the month following enrollment, as long as you sign up by the 15th of the prior month, said Cheryl O’Donnell, Arizona state director at Get Covered America, a nonprofit organization that educates consumers about the ACA.

income has gone up since last year but the same subsidy (also known as an ‘advanced premium tax credit’) as last year is applied as a result of automatic renewal, you’ll have to pay a portion of it back when you file your taxes,” explained Jeff Stelnik, senior vice president at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona. “We encourage people to revalidate their income and recalculate their subsidy for the new year.” According to Stelnik, it’s also a good idea to skip automatic renewal so you can review your coverage. Your insurance company will send you information

• If you need help enrolling in a plan through healthcare.gov, you can dial 211 to find an “assister” in your area, O’Donnell said. You can also call the Marketplace at 800-318-2596 or visit GetCoveredAmerica.org or GetCoveredArizona.org. People who receive help enrolling are twice as likely to successfully complete the application process as those who don’t receive help, O’Donnell said. Additionally, she said, Get Covered America and its partners with the Cover Arizona Coalition will roll out new internetbased tools to help consumers get free professional application a assistance more easily. • Another way to gather information is to contact the Marketplace insurance company in which you’re interested. For example, for help with a Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona policy, visit azblue.com or the company’s dedicated website for health insurance education, GetInformedAZ.com or call 888-559BLUE. Or Stelnik said, visit a health insurance broker who can explain your options to you across all the available Thinkstock Arizona Marketplace plans.

What’s new

• At press time, the state Department of Insurance and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services were still reviewing health insurance plans that may become part of the 2015 Arizona Health Insurance Marketplace. But it’s likely that consumers will be able to choose from among more insurance providers than were part of the Marketplace in 2014, O’Donnell said, noting that as many as 11 different carriers may offer coverage, compared with eight companies in 2014. • The penalty for not signing up for insurance in 2015 doubles from this year, becoming up to 2 percent of household income or $325 per adult and $162.50 per child (up to $975 per family), whichever is larger. The penalty will be paid at the time your annual tax return is filed in 2016. • Though you can allow your current coverage to automatically renew, experts don’t recommend it. “If your

Livingwella-z

November 2014 | Vol. 4, No. 11

Living Well A-Z publishes on the first Wednesday of the month. From A to Z, we tackle a broad range of health issues and offer resources to find more specific information. For questions concerning content in this publication, please contact Editor Paula Hubbs Cohen.

about updated premiums and benefits. You’re encouraged to review your plan’s 2015 changes before the plan automatically renews to see if the plan still meets your needs, making sure your doctor and other healthcare providers will be in the plan network next year and that prescriptions for any medication you take will be covered. Based on the information currently available from the government, onexchange renewing members must pick a new plan by Dec. 15 for the plan to be effective Jan. 1, 2015. Otherwise, the member will either be renewed in his or her existing plan or, if that plan no longer exists, be placed in the closest-available plan for a Jan. 1, 2015 effective date.

Assistance with enrollment can also help you better understand the difference between broad statewide provider networks and the lower premiums associated with limited networks of providers, Stelnik said, adding that a broker can help you choose the plan that’s ideal for your particular needs and budget.

What’s the same

• ‘Metal’ health plan levels will still be in place — platinum, gold, silver and bronze — as well as the ‘catastrophic’ category that provides coverage only in the event of serious illness or injury. Each level is standardized by the federal Health and Human Services Department and carries its own deductible and range of benefits. The most popular choices are silver and bronze plans, Stelnik said. Not all plans offer all levels of coverage. • You can calculate the approximate cost of coverage through the calculator available at GetCoveredAmerica.org. • Subsidies are likely to be available for anyone earning 400 percent of the federal poverty level or less (a maximum of $62,920 yearly for a household of two people or $95,400 for a family of four in 2015) and who enrolls in a health plan through HealthCare.gov. • Cost-sharing enhanced benefits will be in place for anyone earning less than 250 percent of the federal poverty level (less than approximately $39,000 yearly for a household of two, or less than approximately $59,000 for a family of four) and who chooses a ‘silver’ level health plan through healthcare.gov. The upgrade, with a lower deductible and lower coinsurance, happens automatically for qualifying enrollees who choose the silver level of coverage, Stelnik said. If you meet the qualifying parameters, discuss this situation with an insurance broker or someone else who is helping you enroll through HealthCare.gov.

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Wednesday, November 5, 2014 | Livingwella-z | 3

Privacy is paramount in patient care

Your personal health information must be protected

By Susan Lynne Fuchs

ith the advent of social media and Google Earth, many believe true privacy is an illusion whose time is past. Ironically, one of the few extant bits of powerful privacy protection started as a law whose lengthy title never even mentioned privacy.

“HIPAA protections are maturing as law. Privacy is now a patient expectation, a piece of reassurance.” —Jonathan Wallach, Scottsdale Lincoln Health Network

references to patient privacy. Yet privacy of PHI — personal health information — has become the heart of HIPAA. HIPAA is now serious business, requiring comprehensive compliance education and HIPAA enforcement, with million-dollar penalties HIPAA, the federal Health Insurance for flagrant civil abuses and even prison Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, sentences for criminal convictions of those was drafted to make sure people wouldn’t who expose or fail to protect PHI. lose health insurance when they lost or PHI includes your name, address, changed jobs, said Paul Giancola, a partner description or other data that can identify with Snell & Wilmer and past president of the your medical history or condition as yours. Arizona Association of Health Care Lawyers. With just a few legal exceptions, usually Congress, Giancola added, was also trying involving law enforcement, your health to standardize the electronic exchange of information can only be shared for treatbilling data between healthcare providers ment, payment and healthcare operations. and payers. Because legislative drafts become vehicles for other causes, HIPAA Security is critical was amended to also combat healthcare But privacy cannot exist without security, fraud, promote medical savings accounts said Pat Henrikson, chief privacy officer for and improve access to long-term care. Banner Health. Security, Henrikson said, includes adminPrivacy is paramount istrative procedures to prevent, detect, You have to plow through hundreds of contain and correct violations, physical pages of original legislation to find two tiny barriers to limit access to electronic health

records and facilities where data is housed, and technical safeguards to ensure that access is only possible for those who are legally entitled. Security technology protects records storage, ensures appropriate access and provides email encryption, said Jonathan Wallach, JD, CHPS, CHC, HIPAA privacy and data security officer at Scottsdale Lincoln Health Network.

Training is vital

Health systems must address all of these privacy and security issues at the time new staff comes on board and throughout their tenure, Henrikson said. “Banner requires all new hires to complete a HIPAA course online and annual refresher training for all staff,” she noted. To supplement and enhance initial and refresher classes, Wallach offers training targeted to staff who provide specific medical services. “I routinely go to the different departments in all five Scottsdale Lincoln Health Network hospitals,” he said.

“I talk about legal privacy and security issues as they relate to that department. To comply with HIPAA, staff has to stay updated as the law and technology change.” Banner has HIPAA officers in each of its facilities, Henrikson said, with whom she meets every other month to “train the trainers” with updates and talking points they can share with their leadership and staff.

Patient beneﬁts

Patients certainly benefit from HIPAA’s protection, said Snell & Wilmer’s Giancola. “As a patient you now have privacy rights,” Giancola said. “You have the comfort of knowing your PHI must be secure, whether it’s recorded on paper or in an electronic file. There are standards so it can only be used as prescribed by law.” This has actually led to a health benefit, Henrikson said. Without trust that what they say will remain confidential, patients may withhold information that may be vital to their care. Knowing their privacy will be protected allows them to freely enter the patient-physician partnership and share sensitive information that can play a role in their recovery, she explained.

How aging affects medication metabolism

Be aware of potential side effects

By Elise Riley

s we age, our bodies definitely change in a number of ways that affect the metabolism of drugs, according to Floyd Shewmake, M.D., senior medical director of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona. Crystal Miller, a clinical pharmacist at Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center in Sun City West, agreed, adding that medications are processed primarily through our kidneys and liver. “And as we age, the efficiency of how well our kidneys and liver eliminate medication declines,” she said. “This can lead to increased risk for side effects.”

What to watch for

If a patient who has managed their high blood pressure well with medication for years suddenly gets dizzy, the problem might be with the medication — not the patient. “In geriatric patients, you really have to watch out for it,” said Tara Storjohann, Pharm.D., CGP, FASCP, assistant professor of pharmacy practice at Midwestern University in Glendale. “They could metabolize slower so we often have to start with a lower dose. If you’re not metabolizing it the way you should, you’re subject to more side effects because the drug stays in your system longer.”

What to do

“Especially as we age, everyone should have their medication assessed at least twice a year and preferably four times a year,” Storjohann said. “The most important

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thing is to have a chart of how your blood pressure is running at home. It might run a little different at the doctor’s office. Keeping a log of average blood pressure readings is way more useful to a provider.”

4 | Livingwell a-z | Wednesday, November 5, 2014

Who will care for my pet when I need care?

Help is available if you’re too sick to care for your pet

W By David M. Brown

hen Sun City’s Carol Weaver broke her pelvis a few months ago, she was in extreme pain. Her first worry, however, was that she wouldn’t be able to Army Lt. Charles Smith (left) and his Golden Retriever, Peanut, are reunited after three long months apart. While Lt. Smith was deployed, Peanut was cared for by a foster care for her dog, Buddy. family involved in the Arizona Humane Society’s Project Active Duty program. Carol Weaver (right) of Sun City is grateful to the Arizona Humane Society for caring for her Fortunately, the Arizona Humane Society beloved dog, Buddy, for a month while she was laid up with a broken pelvis. | Arizona Humane Society (left) and Carol Weaver (right) (AHS) had the answer. For 28 days, the Phoenix-based nonprofit “With Project Assist, owners have the peace of mind knowing their pets looked after Weaver’s beloved companion will be cared for in a loving home until they are back on their feet again.” while she recuperated at home. Arizona Humane Society: — Bretta Nelson, Arizona Humane Society “Since I live alone, there was no one AZHumane.org/AlternativePlacement; here to help me,” Weaver said. “I called the 602-997-7585; Humane Society and they came down right pet owners find pet-friendly rentals so The Humane Society notifies Soldier’s Best AlternativePlacement@AZHumane.org away and took him. A foster family cared for they can keep their pets. Friend when an AHS shelter dog meets the Lost Our Home Pet Foundation: him which really helped me considerably. I “We provide compassionate alternatives criteria of what the veteran is looking for in LostOurHome.org; am grateful for what they did for me — and to abandonment with support from the a canine companion. SBF then helps train 602-445-PETS (7387); for Buddy. They were just wonderful.” community and the real estate industry,” the soldier and his/her new friend. Jodi@LostOurHome.org said Jodi Polanski, founder and executive The second program, Project Active Peace of mind Duty, is an AHS partnership with PetSmart director of the Tempe-based nonprofit. “If someone enters a facility for a physical “We are the only rescue in the Valley that Inc. and Credit Union West to care for and undergo behavior and medical evaluations medical condition and has no friends or is dedicated to rescuing pets facing homeprotect the animals of those deployed. upon entry into the program. “We also offer family available to assist with their pets, we lessness because of foreclosure.” “They have peace of mind and comfort disaster relief which cares for displaced can place them in our Project Assist program animals after a fire, flood or auto accident Lost Our Home has a Temporary Care knowing that when they return, their pet in which the pet enters an AHS foster home Program that takes care of pets for up to will be waiting for them,” Nelson said. for up to seven days to allow the owner to for seven to 30 days,” said Bretta Nelson, AHS recover and get things in order,” she said. 90 days when a pet-parent is unable to do public relations manager. Nelson added that so due to a life crisis. These situations can Lost Our Home AHS can be a bit flexible with the timeframe, Military programs involve hospitalization, extreme sickness, Another local organization, the Lost Our depending on the circumstances. foreclosure, eviction, homelessness or Home Pet Foundation, was founded in Among the many other AHS programs for “With Project Assist, owners have the going to a domestic violence shelter. For 2008 to keep pets in loving homes when pet owners, two focus on military personpeace of mind knowing their pets will be pet-parents who can’t afford traditional families face major life challenges. Its nel and their families. One is a partnership cared for in a loving home until they are back with Soldier’s Best Friend (SBF), a nonprofit programs include pet rescues from boarding and don’t meet the criteria of the on their feet again,” she said. Temporary Care program, the group has foreclosures and evictions, owner turnthat trains service/therapy dogs to assist Animals taken in for the free Project Assist war veterans living with Traumatic Brain just introduced a Low Income Boarding ins and an innovative Pet Friendly Rental program must be spayed/neutered and must Injury and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. program, with rates from $7 to $18 daily. Service, with Realtor volunteers helping

Resources

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As a nationally recognized ophthalmologist with Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center, Dr. Perkins has performed over 50,000 cataract surgeries and over 10,000 vision correction procedures. As an innovator in the ﬁeld of ophthalmology, he has participated in over 25 clinical trials for both pharmaceutical and ophthalmic devices.

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Gynecology, Obstetrics Samantha Medina, DO

A graduate of Midwestern University in Glendale, Dr. Samantha Medina completed her residency and internship at Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center in Phoenix. Dr. Medina specializes in obstetrical care, lactation and well women exams as well as various in-ofﬁce and surgical procedures.

For those with a BMI above 34, we offer a comprehensive program, which includes surgical options and post-surgery support. Because of our dedicated service and results, our weight loss center at Banner Gateway has been recognized as a Center of Excellence by the American Society for Bariatric Surgery.

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REPUBLIC MEDIA CUSTOM PUBLISHING | NOVEMBER 5, 2014

PRESENTED BY

Livingwellaz

- AND

DESERT SOUTHWEST CHAPTER

UNDERSTANDING ALZHEIMER’S Devastating in so many ways — mentally, physically, financially and more

Individuals with late-stage Alzheimer’s lose the ability to carry on a conversation and respond to their environment; many tend to wander aimlessly which can lead to dangerous situations. Those with Alzheimer’s live an average of eight years after their symptoms become noticeable to others, but survival can range from four to 20 years, depending on age and other health conditions.

Stories by Paula Hubbs Cohen

lzheimer’s. To anyone who’s had a loved one with the disease, the name alone invokes a feeling of fear, dread and overwhelming sadness. But what exactly is Alzheimer’s disease?

Free help is available

Most common form of dementia

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, in fact, Alzheimer’s accounts for 60 percent to 80 percent of dementia cases. Symptoms of the disease, which causes significant problems with memory, thinking and behavior, usually develop slowly and get progressively worse. It’s important to note what Alzheimer’s is not: It is not a normal part of aging, it’s not having a so-called ‘senior moment’, it’s not occasionally forgetting where you put your car keys and it’s not just a disease of old age. In fact, up to 5 percent of people with the disease have early-onset Alzheimer’s (also known as younger-onset), which often appears when someone is in their 40s or 50s. That said, the greatest known risk factor is increasing age and the majority of people with Alzheimer’s are 65 and older.

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The Alzheimer’s Association is at the forefront of providing support to individuals and families affected by the disease, as well as in lobbying for increased funds for research. Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life; memory loss is an example. Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia. Many people have memory loss issues — this does not mean they have Alzheimer’s or another dementia.

The Desert Southwest Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association provides a wealth of free, local services and support to help individuals and families facing a wide range of dementia disorders, including, but not limited to, Alzheimer’s, said Deborah Schaus, executive director of the Desert Southwest Chapter. Ranging from bi-weekly support groups to multi-week caregivers’ education to research partnerships with some of the country’s most renowned scientists and physicians, the Desert Southwest Chapter’s goal is to empower and support individuals, families, care-partners and communities affected by dementia throughout Arizona and southern Nevada. In addition, the Chapter works hand-in-hand with researchers conducting a plethora of clinical trials designed to discover better ways to treat, delay and — hopefully — to eventually prevent this debilitating disease.

No one should face Alzheimer’s alone John and Karen Maline

Walt Rankin helps his wife Patty set the control panel on the elliptical machine at the Blackstone Country Club in Vistancia. Patty, who also likes to golf, tries to stay as active as possible.

Photos by Rick D’Elia

riginally from Omaha, Nebraska, John and Karen Maline recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. They currently live in Northwest Peoria. Karen was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s about a year ago, at age 71. “The first things we noticed were memory issues and that she was having trouble with language issues, like finding words and mispronouncing common words,” said John. “In fact, about six months before we left Omaha, we had an MRI and a brain scan done, but they didn’t show anything wrong.” As they were getting ready for their new life in Arizona, John said Karen’s memory was getting much worse. “She also had trouble focusing,” he said. “For example, whenever we had a big project, she’d want to take over and organize everything. But when we were packing to leave Omaha, she just couldn’t focus on such a big project.” After arriving in Arizona, Karen saw a neurologist at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Phoenix. “They did more tests, including another MRI, which showed more brain-shrinkage than normal for her age,” John said. “Her neurologist diagnosed her with early-stage Alzheimer’s.” John said that Karen’s father had dementia. “It was probably Alzheimer’s, so we knew she might be a candidate for it,” he said. “She was accepting of it because she knew something was wrong, but it was sure hard to hear the doctor say that even though they can slow it down, they can’t cure it.” John and Karen attend Alzheimer’s Association support groups every two weeks. “One week, everyone’s in the same group, while the next meeting, they separate the patients from their care-partners,” John said. “Sometimes there are speakers, but mostly it’s sharing among the

Walt and Patty Rankin

At least once a week, John and Karen Maline spend time together preparing an easy slowcooker dinner to save on complicated kitchen activities. Karen has played piano since she was in second grade and continues to sit down at the keyboard once in a while. She also sings in the choir at Mt. Zion Lutheran Church in Peoria. participants — not just feelings, but also what works and what doesn’t. It’s very helpful to our daily lives.” John’s advice to those newly diagnosed with Alzheimer’s: “Although we haven’t done one, there are a lot of clinical trials out there, and they could be good for others,” he said. “If you’re interested in that, you should definitely check it out through your neurologist or the Alzheimer’s Association.”

istancia resident Patty Rankin was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s two years ago at the age of 63. “I wish we had gotten her diagnosed earlier,” said her husband, Walt. “If we’d known for sure that Patty had Alzheimer’s earlier than we did, we could have started treatments sooner.” After Walt took over the role of making all of Patty’s doctor appointments, he asked their internist to test Patty for dementia. “He did a simple test — and she didn’t do well,” Walt said. “At that point, it also dawned on me that our doctor was an internist, not a neurologist, so I made an appointment with a neurologist who diagnosed Patty with Alzheimer’s.” After a second opinion from another neurologist also indicated Alzheimer’s, Walt said that one of the first things he did was contact the Alzheimer’s Association in Phoenix. “They’ve been

a lifesaver for both of us,” he said. “We go to support meetings two times or more each month. We also went to two programs: one called CarePRO, which is just for caregivers, and also to a program called EPIC, which maps out what’s coming down the road, where the problems will most likely be, and helps you work through them. Both programs are free through the Alzheimer’s Association and they were both great learning experiences.” Walt’s advice to those newly diagnosed with Alzheimer’s: “Call the Alzheimer’s Association,” he said. “They won’t recommend specific doctors or facilities for legal reasons, but they have a huge amount of information and will offer a tremendous amount of help.” The second thing Walt advises is that after getting tested by your internist, if you have any doubts about the diagnosis, contact a neurologist.

2 | Alzheimer’s | Wednesday, November 5, 2014

Arizona at forefront of Alzheimer’s research

New drugs, treatments and clinical trials offer hope for the future

worldwide quest is under way to find new treatments to slow, stop or even prevent Alzheimer’s, with much of that research being done right here in Arizona. Here’s just a very small sampling of some of the vitally important research and work that’s being conducted in hospitals, research institutes and high tech laboratories across the state.

Translational Genomics Research Institute, or TGen

At TGen, several labs are studying the genetics of the disease with the ultimate goal of quantifying an individual’s risk for Alzheimer’s disease decades before the onset of symptoms. “In addition, multiple teams are examining new approaches to identify specific biochemical markers in an individual’s biological fluids or biopsied tissues,” said Matt Huentelman, M.D., associate professor of the neurogenomics division at TGen. “These biochemicals, called biomarkers, may be useful in the future to assess disease risk as well as progression of the disease and responses to drug treatments. Biomarkers are expected to further enable the personalized nature of Alzheimer’s treatment, which is the future of the clinical management of the disease.” TGen is also using social media and crowd sourcing to advance research into Alzheimer’s disease. To wit: Huentelman helped create an online memory game called MindCrowd.org. Since its launch last year, nearly 43,000 people have participated in this anonymous 10-minute game, which measures a specific portion of the brain to see how it works. The eventual goal is 1 million participants. In collaboration with The University of Arizona and the Alzheimer’s Prevention Initiative, TGen will use this broad sampling from MindCrowd.org to learn about the role of genetics in the memory performance of healthy brains. Those who complete the test can see

Rick D’Elia (top left and right)

Top left: Pierre N. Tariot, M.D., director of Banner Alzheimer’s Institute. Top right: Marwan Sabbagh, M.D., director of Banner Sun Health Research Institute and research professor of neurology at The University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix. Left: Matt Huentelman, M.D., associate professor of the neurogenomics division at TGen. their results within seconds, and there’s a feature that allows them to compare their score with others by age, gender, education level and other groupings.

Banner Sun Health Research Institute

At Banner Sun Health Research Institute in Sun City, studies are ongoing in prevention, mild memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and end-stage dementia. “We are performing two studies that use biomarkers to ascertain risk before the onset of symptoms and then enrolling participants to see if interventions delay the onset of symptoms,” said Marwan Sabbagh, M.D., director of Banner Sun Health Research Institute and research professor of neurology at The University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix. “We also have end-of-life studies where participants agree to autopsy and brain scans.” One of the most promising studies, Sabbagh said, involves amyloid imaging, which is now approved and available as an adjunct in the diagnosis

of AD. It determines if a person has amyloid, a key protein related to AD, in their brain. “Though approved, it is not paid for by Medicare so its use has been limited,” Sabbagh said. “Although we are years away from a cure, we might have new approved treatments for AD as early as 2016 or 2017.”

Banner Alzheimer’s Institute

At Banner Alzheimer’s Institute (BAI) in Phoenix, there are a large number of ongoing clinical trials, two of which are for people who have no loss of memory and thinking, but who are at high risk for developing symptoms because of genetic makeup and age, according to Pierre N. Tariot, M.D., director of Banner Alzheimer’s Institute. In addition, BAI directs the Alzheimer’s Prevention Initiative, which is funded by grants from the National Institutes of Health, philanthropy and pharmaceutical industry partners. “Under this umbrella, we have launched a trial in which colleagues are immunizing people as young as age 30 in Colombia, South America, who do not have memory loss and carry a rare genetic mutation that

causes early-onset Alzheimer’s,” Tariot said. “Our aim is to learn whether we can stave off the symptoms of Alzheimer’s. Next year, we will be launching a trial in North America and Europe for people without memory loss who are at particularly high risk for developing the more common form of Alzheimer’s that occurs later in life.” In the Alzheimer’s Prevention Initiative trial that begins next year, BAI will be testing both an active form of immunotherapy as well as a potent oral medication. “In preparation for this trial, we have set up an online community called the Alzheimer’s Prevention Registry through which registrants can receive updates as well as learn about current and planned studies,” Tariot said.

MORE INFO Alzheimer’s Prevention Registry: endALZnow.org; 888-STOP-ALZ Banner Alzheimer’s Institute: BannerALZ.com; 602-839-6500 Banner Sun Health Research Institute: BannerSHRI.org; 623-832-8791 or 623-832-6500 MindCrowd.org

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Wednesday, November 5, 2014 | Alzheimer’s | 3

The importance of financial planning

Advice from two elder-law experts

fter the initial shock of an Alzheimer’s diagnosis subsides, it is important that you become aware of the financial impact of the disease as well as understand the resources you currently have along with resources that are or might be available to you in the future. The sooner you do so, the more the affected individual can be part of the discussion and decision-making. Here’s advice from two experts in Arizona elder law:

Richard White

White is an elder and healthcare law attorney and managing shareholder for JacksonWhite Elder Law Attorneys in Mesa. Arizona SeniorLaw.com; 480-818-6912 What should people do when they or a loved one are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s? “They need to understand

their finances and what benefits they have — what’s covered and what isn’t — and make sure they have an agent under power of attorney named.” Where can people go for help with their finances? “Speaking to an attorney who works specifically with Medicaid issues can help them organize their finances to allow for protection of the well spouse as well as get the ill spouse benefits to pay for care. Many families have indicated that they waited too long to ask for help. Our elder care advisors will speak with anyone for free to help them get their bearings.” Why is it important to understand the financial impact of a disease like Alzheimer’s? “Most people don’t understand the cost of caring for an Alzheimer’s patient; for example, you could be looking at $6,500 a month for a skilled nursing facility. Many people deplete their resources and savings, and only then look at Medicaid.” Comment you hear most often: “I wish I knew about the Medicaid program before my parents spent all their money.”

4 QUICK FINANCIAL TIPS Discuss finances and care wishes with a trusted family member or friend. Organize and review important documents such as Living Wills, deeds, insurance policies, pension/retirement benefit summaries, stocks/bond certificates, medical, durable and mental health powers of attorney, etc. Get help from financial and legal

advisers such as financial planners, estate-planning attorneys and elderlaw attorneys. Understand your insurance options — including possible loans from life insurance policies — as well as community services and government programs that might be of benefit to you.

RESOURCES

Free online workshop:‘Legal and Financial Planning for Alzheimer’s Disease’. Visit alz.org and search for e-learning courses.

Lora Johnson

Johnson is an elder law and estateplanning attorney and principal with Johnson and Associates PLLC in Avondale. JohnsonEstateLaw.com; 623-505-3903 What should people do before an Alzheimer’s diagnosis? “Long-term care insurance may not be affordable for everyone, but everyone should look into it to see if you are able to have it in place in case of a future diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or other debilitating disease.”

What should they do after a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s? “It’s vitally important to have your estate-planning documents and powers of attorney in place. In Arizona, there is also a mental healthcare power of attorney — which oftentimes an Alzheimer’s patient needs. This is important because as one’s mental state declines, others whom they have chosen can take over their finances without court intervention. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions about support groups, community resources and more. Finally, contact experienced experts to help you financially prepare for the cost of the disease. The financial impact doesn’t have to be devastating.” Comment you hear most often: “What happens when I run out of money?” or “Will we lose everything?”

CarePRO, EPIC programs help family caregivers deal with daily stresses

eveloped by David W. Coon, Ph.D., associate vice provost and professor in the College of Nursing & Health Innovation at Arizona State University, CarePRO (Care Partners Reaching Out) is part of a nationwide effort to provide evidence-based programs to family caregivers. “It’s a refinement of work I did with colleagues at Stanford University,” Coon said. “Initially supported with funds from the U.S. Administration on Aging, we work in partnership with the Arizona Department of Economic Security, local Area Agencies on Aging

and the Desert Southwest Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association.” The purpose of CarePRO is to focus on caregivers and provide them with education and tools to help alleviate the caregiving stresses as well as the personal sadness, anxiety, anger and frustration that are part of their daily lives. “There is such a loss of control because there’s a lack of predictability about what will happen next,” Coon said. “We give them skills, ideas and resources to help them manage what happens in the progression of dementia.” EPIC (Early Stage Partners in Care) is

for individuals who have been diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s and their care-partner. “This program infuses some of the same kinds of skills as CarePRO — for example, stress management and how to deal with memory changes — but it allows the patient to have a voice in identifying their care values that will guide future care before the disease progresses,” Coon said. For more information about CarePRO, EPIC and other resources and support groups, contact the Alzheimer’s Association Desert Southwest Chapter.

“Family caregivers are healthcare heroes. It requires a lot of skill, compassion and courage to take care of a loved one who is experiencing the trajectory of Alzheimer’s.” — David W. Coon, Ph.D., Arizona State University

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4 | Alzheimer’s | Wednesday, November 5, 2014

Warning signs and risk factors

s we age, most people eventually notice some slowed thinking and occasional problems with remembering certain things. However, serious memory loss, confusion and other major changes in the way our minds work may be a sign of Alzheimer’s. As Alzheimer’s advances, it leads to increasingly severe symptoms including disorientation, mood and behavior changes, and deepening confusion about events and situational experiences such as time and place. The disease also often leads to unfounded suspicions about family, friends and caregivers, along with difficulty speaking, swallowing and walking.

Risk factors

The greatest known risk factor for Alzheimer’s is advancing age. The likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s doubles about every five years after age 65. After age 85, the risk reaches nearly 50 percent. Another strong risk factor is family history. Anyone who has a parent or sibling with Alzheimer’s is more likely to develop the disease. The risk increases if more than one family member has the illness.

RISK REDUCTION

Age and family history can’t be changed, but emerging evidence suggests there may be other factors we can influence. Some of the most active areas of research in risk reduction and prevention include cardiovascular factors, physical fitness and diet. Cardiovascular risk factors: Damaged blood vessels in your brain can deprive brain cells of vital food and oxygen. You can help protect your brain with some of the same strategies that protect your heart: Don’t smoke Keep blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar within recommended limits Maintain a healthy weight Exercise: Evidence suggests exercise may directly benefit brain cells because it increases blood and oxygen flow to the brain. Diet: Scientists advise that heart-healthy eating patterns may help protect the brain, for example, a diet that reduces your intake of fat and cholesterol and uses mono- and polyunsaturated fats such as olive oil. trouble following a familiar recipe or keeping track of monthly bills. Typical age-related change: Making occasional errors when balancing a checkbook.

word; calling things by the wrong name. Typical age-related change: Sometimes having trouble finding the right word.

Difficulty completing familiar tasks: Having trouble driving to a familiar location or remembering the rules of a favorite game. Typical age-related change: Occasionally needing help to record a television show.

Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps: Putting things in unusual places; losing things and being unable to go back over their steps to find them again. This sometimes leads Alzheimer’s patients to accuse others of stealing. Typical age-related change: Occasionally misplacing things.

Here are ten classic warning signs of Alzheimer’s — individuals may experience one or more of these symptoms in different degrees.

Confusion with time or place: Having trouble understanding something if it is not happening immediately; forgetting where they are or how they got there. Typical age-related change: Getting confused about the day of the week but figuring it out later.

Warning signs

Memory loss that disrupts daily life: Forgetting recently learned information, important dates or events; repeatedly asking for the same information; increasingly relying on memory aids or family members for things that used to be handled on his or her own. Typical age-related change: Sometimes forgetting names or appointments, but remembering them later.

Challenges in planning or solving problems: Experiencing changes in the ability to develop and follow a plan or work with numbers; having

Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships: Having difficulty reading, judging distance and determining color or contrast; can cause problems with driving. Typical age-related change: Vision changes related to cataracts. New problems with words in speaking or writing: Having trouble following or joining a conversation; stopping in the middle of a conversation and being unable to continue; frequently repeating themselves. Struggling with vocabulary; having problems finding the right

Decreased or poor judgment: Experiencing changes in judgment or decision-making; paying less attention to grooming or cleanliness. Typical age-related change: Making a bad decision once in a while. Withdrawal from work or social activities: Removing themselves from hobbies, social activities, work projects or sports. Typical age-related change: Sometimes feeling weary of work, family and social obligations. Changes in mood and personality: Becoming easily upset, confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful and/or anxious. Typical age-related change: Developing specific ways of doing things and becoming irritable when a routine is disrupted.

HELP IS AVAILABLE If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia, you are not alone. The Alzheimer’s Association offers a wealth of up-to-date educational information and referral and support services for the millions of individuals and families affected by the disease.

Alzheimer’s Association resources 24/7 Helpline: 800-272-3900 alz.org: Learn about stages of the disease, access free online workshops, find support groups, community and national resources and more. Desert Southwest Chapter: alz.org/dsw (Information about local resources, support groups, clinical trials and more.) Phoenix: 602-528-0545 Tucson: 520-322-6601 Prescott: 928-771-9257 Las Vegas: 702-248-2770

Additional resources Area Agency on Aging, Region One: aaaphx.org; 24-hour Senior Helpline 602-264-HELP (4357); 888-783-7500; TTY/TDD 602-241-6110

Arizona Healthcare Cost Containment System (Arizona’s Medicaid system): AZahcccs.gov; 602-417-4000; 800-654-8713 (outside Maricopa County) BenefitsCheckUp, a free service of the National Council on Aging: BenefitsCheckUp.org; 800-677-1116 Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services: CMS.gov; Medicaid.gov; Medicare.gov; 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227); TTY 877-486-2048 Department of Veterans Affairs: VA.gov; healthcare benefits 877-222-8387; general benefits 800-827-1000 Eldercare locator, a service of the U.S. Administration on Aging: ElderCare.gov; 800-677-1116 Internal Revenue Service: IRS.gov; 800-829-1040 National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys: NAELA.org; 703-942-5711 National Council on Aging: NCOA.org; 800-677-1116

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HOSPICE OF THE VALLEY ALZHEIMER’S PROGRAMS There are a number of top-notch organizations that provide supportive programs for Alzheimer’s and dementia care; one is Hospice of the Valley (HOV). A sampling of HOV’s dementia-related programs includes: Palliative Care for Dementia: Persons with dementia who are not yet eligible for hospice services may enroll in Hospice of the Valley’s Palliative Care for Dementia program which is funded through grants and private payment from the patient/ family at a monthly rate of $250. Services include home visits from dementia educators, 24/7 phone access to a nurse, phone consultations with a physician with specialized expertise, and respite time for family caregivers provided by trained volunteers. Dementia hospice program: Care for late-stage dementia patients is customized to incorporate the patient’s lifelong preferences and includes sensory activities and more. Family caregivers also are supported by the hospice team. Music program: Fifty iPods are being used to entertain and energize hundreds of hospice dementia patients. Drawing from a 2,000+ song bank, staff and volunteers customize the play list for each patient. Gardiner Home: Believed to be a national first, Gardiner Home is a palliative care unit in midtown Phoenix dedicated solely to caring for hospice dementia patients. Ten patients receive inpatient care from staff and volunteers with specialized expertise. In addition, an education center for family caregivers is being constructed at Gardiner Home. Source: Hospice of the Valley; HOV.org; 602-530-6900

Wednesday, November 5, 2014 | Livingwella-z | 5

Chronic pain management over our life,” said Emma H. (not her real name), a member of the local CPA support DEVICES group (ChronicPainAnonymous.org). Stearns specializes in what are known as “Working the Twelve Steps is about a shift spinal pumps and neurostimulation devices in attitude to create a new relationship with for patients with significant pain from our pain and illness so we can experience serious injuries or diseases such as cancer. peace and serenity,” she said. Spinal pumps can deliver small amounts of medication directly to the location of the PLATELET-RICH PLASMA (PRP) INJECTIONS pain along the spine with fewer side effects Platelets in blood contain growth and than other approaches. A neurostimulahealing properties to help repair damaged tion device about the size of a pacemaker or inflamed tissue. To produce the PRP for is implanted in the epidural space in the injection, a lab technician draws a sample of patient’s back and replaces a sensation of the patient’s blood and places it in a centripain in the spine with a mild vibration. fuge that separates the blood’s components. “A spinal cord stimulator can be geared The separated platelets are then injected toward patients who have had failed back into the location of the pain in the body. surgery and are taking increasing doses of “This can help areas of the body that don’t narcotics for pain,” Zaveri said. “The device have a great blood supply, including ligacan alleviate pain by 50 percent or more.” ments and tendons,” said Tory McJunkin, He added that it’s important to seek out M.D., founder and medical director of either a specially trained anesthesiologist Arizona Pain Specialists in Phoenix. or a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician (a physiatrist) to perform AMNIOTIC TISSUE INJECTIONS implantation of such a device. Amniotic tissue, sometimes referred to as placental tissue, contains growth factors MOVEMENT OPTIONS that can help the body build new tissues of This could include physical therapy, yoga its own, especially with conditions such as and tai chi, and is often recommended by osteoarthritis and tendinitis. doctors in combination with other therapies. Amniotic tissue is believed to contain a “Physical therapy is vital to strengthening high concentration of stem cells that aren’t muscles,” Inouye said. “Yoga and tai chi can rejected when introduced into another improve balance, which is critical to prevent- body. The amniotic tissue is gathered from ing falls as people get older.” women who have C-sections, McJunkin said, then thoroughly tested and prepared as an EMOTIONAL SUPPORT injectable material. “Thousands of injec“Seeking counseling may not be the first tions can be delivered from just a single option considered by patients,” said Thomas amniotic sac,” he noted. Virden, Ph.D., the associate program direc“We’ve seen meaningful results where tor for clinical psychology at Midwestern a patient’s knee pain from osteoarthritis, University in Glendale. “Chronic pain can for example, has been significantly reduced make you feel devalued, but if you address as a result of these injections,” said Janice that feeling right away, you may be able to Johnston, M.D., the medical director of minimize the negative consequences of that. the Osteoarthritis Program through Psychotherapy has been shown to decrease Arrowhead Health Centers. “Amniotic the interference that pain has in a person’s tissue has been shown to support soft life and decrease reliance on pain medicatissue repair, reduce inflammation and tions.” He also suggests adding meditation minimize scar tissue formation.” to a chronic pain patient’s routine and seeking help from a chronic pain support RADIOFREQUENCY ABLATION (RFA) group, located through the American With RFA, an electrical current produced Chronic Pain Association (TheACPA.org). by radio waves is used to heat up a small Chronic Pain Anonymous (CPA) was area where nerves are perceiving pain, established 10 years ago to use the same resulting in a deadening of pain signals spiritual tools with chronic pain that are from that specific area. This technique used to help alcoholics. “People in chronic can help patients with back and neck pain pain can have an obsession over their phys- and pain linked to joint degeneration from ical well-being and that obsession can take osteoarthritis, Zaveri said.

Vance Inouye, N.D., an adjunct professor at Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, talks about the value of movement and prolotherapy to stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanisms. “The general public doesn’t realize there are so many different therapies that can help with pain.”

continued from the cover

Rick D’Elia

GENICULAR NERVE ABLATION

Similar to RFA, this involves cauterizing the nerve in the knee perceiving pain, Zaveri said. “In some patients, this technique may eliminate or alleviate the pain after failed knee replacement surgery.”

ACUPUNCTURE

Some physicians who provide therapies complementary to conventional medicine will provide acupuncture, which has been shown to provide relief from pain. David Ben-Aviv, M.D., a physiatrist with The CORE Institute in Phoenix, learned how to perform acupuncture during his medical residency. “I treated chronic pain patients from the Korean War and Vietnam War eras,” he said. “It was a great feeling to perform such a simple procedure for those with profound pain, and especially seeing the relief they got from the procedure.”

MEDICAL MARIJUANA

Bowden, of Pain Management Associates, said that medical marijuana requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider, but it’s not the provider who determines the strength, purity, variety or dosage of the marijuana that’s dispensed. That job falls to the people who work at a licensed dispensary who may or may not be medically trained. “This isn’t how any other prescribed agent works in medicine,” he said. “Medical marijuana is similar to herbal supplements in that the dosage or purity isn’t regulated by any federal agency. I don’t necessarily object to a patient using it as long as they’ve tried standard-of-care treatments first, are not using other pain medication currently and understand how the marijuana is being dispensed.” Bowden added that he will not prescribe medical marijuana himself because of the lack of uniformity in how it’s dispensed.

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6 | Livingwell a-z | Wednesday, November 5, 2014

NOVEMBER

Take advantage of opportunities to meet others with similar issues and learn more about various aspects of your health — from A to Z.

Allgroupsandeventsarebelieved, butnotguaranteed,tobefreeunless otherwisestated.Everyefforthasbeen madetoverifyaccuracy,butpleasecall beforeattendingtoconfirmdetails.

GRIEF BEFORE LOSS Nov. 26, 10–11 a.m. By Benevilla at Birt’s Bistro 16752 N. Greasewood St., Surprise 623-584-4999

WELLNESS

KNEES, HIPS, SPINE, JOINTS

MEDICATION CHECKS Call to schedule a personal meeting St. Luke’s, 1800 E. Van Buren St., Phoenix Tempe St. Luke’s, 1500 S. Mill Ave., Tempe Register: 877-351-WELL (9355) WALKING GROUPS Various dates & locations, 9–10 a.m. By Humana; 480-325-4707; humana.com UNITED BLOOD SERVICES BLOOD DRIVE Nov. 6, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. St. Luke’s 1800 E. Van Buren St., Phoenix Register: BloodHero.com Sponsor Code: Luke SENIOR ADVANTAGE HEARING SCREENING Nov. 7, 9 a.m.–noon Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa Register: 877-924-WELL (9355) FREE PROSTATE CANCER SCREENING Nov. 8, 8 a.m.–noon Arizona State Urology 6320 W. Union Hills Dr., Glendale Appointments: 602-547-3806; SWProstateCancer@aol.com HEALTHY FEET, HEALTHY LIFE Nov. 12, noon Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa Register: 877-924-WELL (9355) FIRE SAFETY FOR SENIORS Nov. 13, noon By Mesa Fire & Medical Department at Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa Register: 877-924-WELL (9355) SKIN CANCER SCREENING Nov. 15, 8:25–11:30 a.m. Center for Dermatology 14275 N. 87th St., Scottsdale Appointments: 480-882-4636 DEPRESSION, ANXIETY & ADDICTION: NATURAL SOLUTIONS Dec. 2, 6 p.m. Renovare Wellness By Design 18969 N. 83rd Ave., Peoria 623-776-0206; RenovareWellnessByDesignPro.com

CAREGIVERS CAREGIVERS SUPPORT Nov. 5 & 19, 10–11:30 a.m. By Duet at Devonshire Senior Center 2802 E. Devonshire Ave., Phoenix 602-274-5022 CAREGIVERS SUPPORT Nov. 10 St. Joseph’s Outpatient Rehab 114 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix Call for time: 602-406-6688 CAREGIVERS SUPPORT Nov. 12, 2:30 p.m. Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa Register: 877-924-WELL (9355) CAREGIVERS SUPPORT Nov. 13, 10–11 a.m. By Duet at Skyway Church of the WV 14900 W. Van Buren St., Goodyear 602-274-5022 CAREGIVING SUPPORT Nov. 21, 9–11 a.m. By Benevilla at Birt’s Bistro 16752 N. Greasewood St., Surprise 623-584-4999 CARE-PARTNER WORKSHOP Nov. 22, 10 a.m.–noon Barrow Neurological Institute 350 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix Register: 602-406-3840; patty.hatton@DignityHealth.org (Lunch provided)

GRIEF GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP Various dates, times & locations By Banner Hospice Rev. Cindy Darby, cindy.darby@BannerHealth.com BannerHospice.com; 480-657-1167 GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP Various dates, times & locations By Hospice of the Valley hov.org/grief-support-groups; 602-530-6970 GRIEF SUPPORT Nov. 6 & 20 St. Joseph’s Barrow 350 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix Call for time: 602-406-3275 LIVING WITH LOSS Nov. 11 & 25, 1–2:30 p.m. By Cancer Support Community 360 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix Register: 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org GRIEF SUPPORT Nov. 11 & 25, 3–4:30 p.m. Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center 10460 N. 92nd St., Scottsdale 480-323-1321 COPING WITH GRIEF Nov. 19, noon Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa Register: 877-924-WELL (9355)

a-z T O P E V E N T S SATURDAY, NOV. 8

WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S

WHAT: Held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide, the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Along with raising funds, at a Walk event you and others can learn more about Alzheimer’s disease, local support programs and services, as well as advocacy initiatives and clinical trial enrollment. In Arizona and southern Nevada, funds raised benefit the Alzheimer’s Association Desert Southwest Chapter’s local programs as well as the latest prevention and treatment research. WHERE: Wesley Bolin Plaza, 1700 W. Washington St., Phoenix TIME: 7:30–11 a.m. PRESENTED BY: Alzheimer’s Association Desert Southwest Chapter COST: Free INFO/REGISTER: 602-528-0545; PhoenixAlzheimersWalk.org

LIVE FREE OF JOINT PAIN Various dates, times & locations By Banner Health Register: 602-230-2273 HIP & KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS Nov. 13, 6 p.m. Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa Register: 877-924-WELL (9355) LESS-INVASIVEHIPREPLACEMENT Nov. 13, 6–7:30 p.m. Scottsdale Orthopedic Institute 20401 N. 73rd St., Scottsdale 480-882-4636; AZHipReplacement.com MINIMALLY INVASIVE KNEE SURGERY Nov. 18, 6–7 p.m. John C. Lincoln 19841 N. 27th Ave., Phoenix 480-882-4636; JCL.com/news

PAIN HOPE FOR TODAY Nov. 11, 18, 25 & Dec. 2, 3:30–4:30 p.m. By Chronic Pain Anonymous at Temple Chai Shalom Center House 4635 E. Marilyn Rd., Phoenix cpa-az@cox.net; ChronicPainAnonymous.org PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY Nov. 13, 1–2 p.m. Civic Center Auditorium 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale 480-882-4636; shc.org/events

HEART/STROKE MENDED HEARTS Nov. 6, 6–7 p.m. John C. Lincoln 19636 N. 27th Ave., Phoenix 623-879-5583; JCL.com/events STROKE SUPPORT Nov. 19, 1 p.m. Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa Register: 877-924-WELL (9355)

WOMEN OVARIAN CANCER SUPPORT Nov. 15, 10–11:30 a.m. By Cancer Support Community 360 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix Register: 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org MENOPAUSE SUPPORT Nov. 17, noon–1 p.m. Scottsdale Healthcare Shea 9003 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale 480-882-4636; shc.org/events PERIMENOPAUSE & MENOPAUSE Nov. 20, noon Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa Register: 877-924-WELL (9355) WOMEN WITH MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS Nov. 29, 10 a.m. St. Joseph’s Barrow 350 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix 480-829-6563

Alzheimer’s Association Desert Southwest Chapter

Please call to confirm reservations and cost (if any).

NOV. 5, 12 & 19 INTRO TO FIBROMYALGIA WHAT: Learn about fibromyalgia with Dr. Ken Muhich. WHERE: 8300 N. Hayden Rd., Scottsdale TIME: 5:30–6:30 p.m. PRESENTED BY: Fibromyalgia Wellness Center COST: Free INFO/REGISTER: 480-948-4955

NOV. 5, DEC. 3 MINI-MED SCHOOL WHAT: Experience a glimpse of what med students are learning, from molecular medicine to bioethics. WHERE: Health Sciences Education Building, 435 N. Fifth St., Phoenix WHEN: 5:30–7 p.m. PRESENTED BY: The University of Arizona College of Medicine COST: Free (light dinner available for purchase) INFO/REGISTER: 602-827-2024; PhoenixMed.arizona.edu/ mini-med

DIABETES

NOV. 7

DIABETES SUPPORT Nov. 6, 7–8 p.m. The Nutrition Professionals 2158 N. Gilbert Rd., Mesa Register: 480-216-1635; laura@NutritionPro.net DIABETES SUPPORT Nov. 10, 3 p.m. Mountain Vista Medical Center 1301 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa Register: 877-924-WELL (9355) MANAGING DIABETES Nov. 10, 6:30–8:30 p.m. Banner Casa Grande 1800 E. Florence Blvd., Casa Grande 520-381-6416 EATING RIGHT Nov. 26, 2–3 p.m. Humana Guidance Center 5943 W. McKellips Rd., Mesa 480-325-4707

NAVIGATING HEALTHCARE FOR DEMENTIA & AGING WHAT: Presentations and networking with healthcare providers in the aging-in-place industry. WHERE: National Bank of Arizona, 6001 N. 24th St., Phoenix TIME: 8 a.m.–4 p.m. PRESENTED BY: Homecare Assistance, MeasurAbilities and National Bank of Arizona COST: Free

ALZHEIMER’S/DEMENTIA ALZHEIMER’S & MEMORY SUPPORT Nov. 7, 9–11 a.m. By Benevilla at Birt’s Bistro 16752 N. Greasewood St., Surprise 623-584-4999 ALZHEIMER’S & MEMORY SUPPORT Nov. 11, 18 & 25, 10 a.m.–noon By Benevilla at Faith Presbyterian Church 16000 N. Del Webb Blvd., Sun City 623-584-4999 ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT Nov. 16, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Dignity Health Huger Mercy Living Center 2345 W. Orangewood Ave., Phoenix 602-406-5600 (lunch provided) ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVER SUPPORT Nov. 17, 1:30–3 p.m. By Tempe St. Luke’s at Pyle Adult Recreation Center 655 E. Southern Ave., Tempe Register: 877-351-WELL (9355)

NOV. 8 MIHS FREE HEALTH SCREENINGS WHAT: Information on services and programs. Screenings for diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol, vision, pregnancy and BMI. WHERE: El Mirage Family Health Center,12428W.ThunderbirdRd., El Mirage TIME: 9 a.m.–noon PRESENTED BY: Maricopa Integrated Health System COST: Free for health screenings; flu shots at minimal cost INFO: 623-344-6500; ElMirageFamilyHealthCenter.org

CAREGIVERS SUPPORT Nov. 18, 12:30–2 p.m. Duet, 555 W. Glendale Ave., Phoenix 602-274-5022

BREAST CANCER BOSOM BUDDIES SUPPORT GROUPS Various dates, times & locations Ahwatukee/Chandler: 480-893-8900 East Valley: 480-969-4119 Northwest Valley: 623-236-6616 West Valley: 623-979-4279 BREAST CANCER SUPPORT By Cancer Support Community

NOV. 10 TECHNOLOGY WELLNESS CENTER WHAT: Learn how parents can set boundaries on technology use for children. WHERE: LifeScape Medical Associates, 8757 E. Bell Rd., Scottsdale TIME: 6:30–7:30 p.m. PRESENTED BY: Dr. Lisa Strohman, J.D., Ph.D. COST: Free INFO/REGISTER: 480-220-4702; Dr.Lisa@technology wellnesscenter.com

NOV. 11 TEEN CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP WHAT: Monthly support group for teens ages 13–18 who have a loved one with cancer. WHERE: 360 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix TIME: 6–7:30 p.m. PRESENTED BY: Cancer Support Community Arizona COST: Free INFO/REGISTER: 602-712-1006; ejarboe@cscaz.org

NOV. 11 PELVIC FLOOR DISORDERS WHAT: A seminar about pelvic health and pelvic floor disorders. WHERE: Women’s Center for Advanced Pelvic Surgery, 4344 E. Presidio St., Mesa TIME: 6–8 p.m. PRESENTED BY: Banner Health COST: Free INFO/REGISTER: 602-230-2273

NOV. 13 THE POWER OF ENZYMES WHAT: Wellness webinar regarding the impact of digestive enzymes on health. WHERE: Online TIME: 6–7 p.m. PRESENTED BY: Sprouts Farmers Market COST: Free INFO/REGISTER: Reserve a seat at www3.GoToMeeting.com/ register/685822222

NOV 1415 SYMPOSIUM FOR GERIATRIC HEALTHCARE INTERPROFESSIONALS WHAT: “New Frontiers in Geriatrics”: treatments and prevention strategies for older adults.

360 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix Info: 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org MEDITATION FOR HEALING Nov. 6, 6–7 p.m. John C. Lincoln Deer Valley 19841 N. 27th Ave., Phoenix 623-780-4673; JCL.com/BreastHealth BREAST CANCER SUPPORT Nov. 8, 10 a.m.–noon Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center 10460 N. 92nd St., Scottsdale 480-323-1321 BREAST CANCER SUPPORT Nov. 10, 2–4 p.m. Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers

WHERE: Desert Willow Conference Center, 4340 E. Cotton Center Blvd., Phoenix WHEN: 8 a.m.–4:45 p.m. PRESENTED BY: Arizona Geriatrics Society COST: Ranges from $100 to $375 INFO/REGISTER: 602-265-0211; ArizonaGeriatrics.org

DATE CHANGE: SUNDAY NOV. 16 UNDY RUN/WALK (Previously scheduled for Saturday Nov. 15) WHAT: All-ages 5K walk/run benefits the Colon Cancer Alliance. Participants encouraged to wear familyappropriate ‘undy-attire’. WHERE: State Capitol District, 1600W.WashingtonSt.,Phoenix TIME: Registration starts 7:30 a.m. COST: $20–$40 PRESENTED BY: Colon Cancer Alliance INFO/REGISTER: 202-628-0123, ext. 104; UndyRunWalk.org

NOV. 18 & DEC. 10 HANDLING HOLIDAY STRESS WHAT: For grandparents raising grandchildren — how to handle stress and anxiety during the holidays. Includes lunch and childcare with notice. WHERE/WHEN: Nov. 18, Littleton Elementary School, 1252 S. Avondale Blvd., Avondale (register by Nov. 14) Dec. 10, Buckeye Family Support Center, 210 S. Sixth St., Buckeye (register by Dec. 5) TIME: 10 a.m.–noon PRESENTED BY: Duet COST: Free INFO/REGISTER: 602-274-5022

NOV. 19 HEROIN WEBINAR WHAT: Online webinar on the Rx connection to heroin. WHERE: Online TIME: noon–12:30 p.m. PRESENTED BY: DrugFreeAZKids.org COST: Free INFO/REGISTER:DrugFreeAZKids.org

NOV. 22 MIHS HEALTH & RESOURCE FAIR WHAT: Community resources including AHCCCS, ACA and utility assistance info. Screenings for diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol, vision, pregnancy and BMI.

685 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler Register: 480-340-4013; IronwoodCRC.com LOOK GOOD, FEEL BETTER Nov. 11, 4:30–6:30 p.m. Breast Health & Research Center 19646 N. 27th Ave., Phoenix 623-780-4673; JCL.com/BreastHealth BREAST CANCER SUPPORT Nov. 13, 6–8 p.m. Breast Health & Research Center 19464 N. 27th Ave., Phoenix 623-780-4673; JCL.com/BreastHealth

WHERE: Glendale Civic Center, 5750 W. Glenn Dr., Glendale TIME: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. PRESENTED BY: Maricopa Integrated Health System COST: Free for health screenings; flu shots at minimal cost INFO: 623-344-2550; GlendaleFamilyHealthCenter.org

NOV. 22 UNDERSTANDING CHILD GRIEF & LOSS WHAT: Grandparents learn how to help grandchildren identify their feelings, express their emotions. Includes lunch and childcare with notice. WHERE: Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church, 918 S. Litchfield Rd., Goodyear TIME: 10 a.m.–noon PRESENTED BY: Duet COST: Free INFO/REGISTER: By Nov. 14; 602-274-5022

DEC. 6 FRAGILE X EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOP WHAT: Fragile X Syndrome is a genetic condition that causes intellectual disability, behavioral and learning challenges. WHERE: Phoenix Children’s Hospital, 1920 E. Cambridge Ave., Phoenix TIME: 8 a.m.–3 p.m. PRESENTED BY: Barrow Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children’s Hospital; Fragile X Families of Phoenix; Fragile X Families of Northern Arizona COST: $35 per person; $60 for family of two INFO/REGISTER: Phoenix@FragileX.org; FragileX.org; eventbrite.com/ e/2014-arizona-fragilexeducation-workshoptickets

DEC. 6 FREE DIABETES HEALTH FAIR WHAT: Health fair featuring health screenings, vendors and diabetes education classes. WHERE: Scottsdale Community College, 9000 E. Chaparral Rd., Scottsdale WHEN: 9 a.m.–1 p.m. PRESENTED BY: American Diabetes Association of Phoenix COST: Free INFO/REGISTER: 602-861-4731; ADennis@diabetes.org

BREAST BUDS SUPPORT Nov. 15, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. MidFirst Bank Conference Room 6508 W. Bell Rd., Glendale 480-657-0500; BreastBuds.org

CANCER SUPPORT GROUPS CANCER CAREGIVERS SUPPORT Various dates & times By Cancer Support Community 360 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org

Wednesday, November 5, 2014 | Livingwella-z | 7

LOOK GOOD, FEEL BETTER Various dates & locations, 4–6 p.m. Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers Register: 480-855-2224; IronwoodCRC.com CHAIR YOGA Nov. 5, 12 & 19, 10–11 a.m. Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers 685 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler Register: 480-340-4013; IronwoodCRC.com CANCER SURVIVORS SUPPORT Nov. 5, 5:30–6:30 p.m. Nov. 10, 12:30–1:30 p.m. Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center 10460 N. 92nd St., Scottsdale 480-323-1321 RETURN TO WELLNESS Nov. 6, 10–11:30 a.m. By Cancer Support Community at Via Linda Senior Center 10440 E. Via Linda, Scottsdale Register: 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org MULTIPLE MYELOMA GROUP Nov. 6, 10 a.m.–noon By Cancer Support Community 360 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix Register: 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org CANCER: NEW DISCOVERIES Nov. 6, 6–7:30 p.m. By Cancer Support Community 360 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix Register: 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org LYMPHOMA SUPPORT Nov. 8, 10–11:30 a.m. By Cancer Support Community 360 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix Register: 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org PANCREATIC CANCER SUPPORT Nov. 8, 10–11:30 a.m. By Cancer Support Community 360 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix Register: 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org CARCINOID SUPPORT Nov. 8, 1–2:30 p.m. By Cancer Support Community 360 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix Register: 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org LUNG CANCER SUPPORT Nov. 8, 1–2:30 p.m. By Cancer Support Community 360 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix Register: 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org CHAIR YOGA Nov. 11, 18 & 25, 10–11 a.m. Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers 3686 S. Rome St., Gilbert Register: 480-340-4013; IronwoodCRC.com SURVIVING & THRIVING Nov. 11 & 25, 1–2:30 p.m. By Cancer Support Community 360 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix Register: 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org PANCREATIC CANCER SUPPORT Nov. 11, 4–5:30 p.m. Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center 10510 N. 92nd St., Scottsdale 480-323-1321 NEWLY DIAGNOSED SUPPORT Nov. 11, 6–7:30 p.m. By Cancer Support Community at Banner Good Samaritan 1111 E. McDowell Rd., Phoenix Register: 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org CANCER SUPPORT INFO Nov. 12 & 26, 10–11 a.m. By Cancer Support Community

360 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix Register: 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org

at Sun Lakes Country Club 25601 N. Sun Lakes Blvd., Sun Lakes Register: 602-406-4921

CANCER SURVIVORS NUTRITION Nov. 12, 6–7:30 p.m. Banner Gateway 1900 N. Higley Rd., Gilbert 602-230-2273

MUSIC & MOVEMENT THERAPY Nov. 10, 17 & 24, 2:30–3:30 p.m. Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center 240 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix Register: 602-406-3840

NON-HODGKIN’S LYMPHOMA SUPPORT Nov. 13, 6–8 p.m. Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center 10460 N. 92nd St., Scottsdale 480-323-1321

VOICE CLASS Nov. 11, 18 & 25, 11 a.m.–noon Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center 240 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix Register: 602-406-3840

COLORECTAL CANCER SUPPORT Nov. 15, 10–11:30 a.m. By Cancer Support Community 360 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix Register: 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org CAREGIVER SUPPORT Nov. 15, 10 a.m.–noon Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers 685 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler Register: 480-340-4013; IronwoodCRC.com CAREGIVER & FAMILY SUPPORT Nov. 19, 5:30–6:30 p.m. Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center 10460 N. 92nd St., Scottsdale 480-323-1321 FRANKLY SPEAKING: LUNG CANCER Nov. 19, 6–7:30 p.m. By Cancer Support Community 360 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix Register: 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org ESOPHAGEAL SUPPORT Nov. 20, 6–7:30 p.m. By Cancer Support Community at Banner Good Samaritan 1111 E. McDowell Rd., Phoenix Register: 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org ORAL, HEAD & NECK CANCER SUPPORT Nov. 20, 6:30–8:30 p.m. Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center 10460 N. 92nd St., Scottsdale 602-377-2447 LIVING WITH LYMPHEDEMA Nov. 24, 6:30–8:30 p.m. Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center 10460 N. 92nd St., Scottsdale 480-323-1100, option 5; shc.org/events

PARKINSON’S EXERCISE CLASSES Various dates, times & locations By the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center Register: 602-406-3840 PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP Various dates, times & locations By the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center 602-406-4921 or 602-406-3840 YOUNG ONSET WELLNESS Various dates & times Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center 240 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix Register: 602-406-4921 TAI CHI Nov. 5, 12, 19 & 26, 2:30–3:30 p.m. Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center 240 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix Register: 602-406-3840 YOGA Nov. 6, 13 & 20, 2–3 p.m. Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center 240 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix Register: 602-406-3840 PWR!CIRCUIT Nov. 7, 14 & 21, 11 a.m.–noon Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center 240 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix Register: 602-406-3840 CARE-PARTNER SUPPORT Nov. 7, 1–3:30 p.m. By Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center

PWR!MOVES Nov. 11, 18 & 25, 1:15–2:15 p.m. Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center 240 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix Register: 602-406-3840 ART OF MOVING Nov. 11, 18 & 25, 2:30–3:30 p.m. Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center 240 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix Register: 602-406-3840 CAREGIVERS BOOT CAMP Nov. 12, 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. By Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at King of Glory Lutheran Church 2085 E. Southern Ave., Tempe Register: 602-406-3840 CAREGIVERS SUPPORT Nov. 12, 1:30–3 p.m. Duet, 555 W. Glendale Ave., Phoenix 602-274-5022 EDUCATION FOR NEWLY DIAGNOSED Nov. 13, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center 240 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix Register: 602-406-3840

602-689-2537; HeatherBarrowBrown@gmail.com PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT Nov. 10, 7–9 p.m. Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers 685 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler Register: 480-340-4013; IronwoodCRC.com

RESPIRATORY BETTER BREATHERS/ COPD SUPPORT Various dates, times & locations By the American Lung Association 602-429-0005; BreatheEasyAZ.info GET PAST ASTHMA Nov. 10, 6:30–8 p.m. John C. Lincoln 19841 N. 27th Ave., Phoenix 623-879-5452; JCL.com/events BETTER BREATHERS CLUB Nov. 13, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Banner Boswell 10401 W. Thunderbird Blvd., Sun City 602-286-8507; BreatheEasyAZ.info BETTER BREATHERS CLUB Nov. 14, 10:30–11:30 a.m. Mayo Clinic Hospital 5777 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix 480-342-2348; BreatheEasyAZ.info BETTER BREATHERS CLUB Nov. 14, 1–2 p.m. HealthSouth East Valley Rehab 5652 E. Baseline Rd., Mesa 480-567-0350; BreatheEasyAZ.info BETTER BREATHERS CLUB Nov. 17, 1–2 p.m. Yavapai Regional Medical Center 1003 Willow Creek, Prescott 928-771-5264; BreatheEasyAZ.info

PARKINSON’S SUPPORT Nov. 18, 3–4 p.m. By Benevilla at Shepherd of the Hills United Methodist Church 13658 W. Meeker Blvd., Sun City West 623-584-4999

BETTER BREATHERS CLUB Nov. 19, 2–3 p.m. Chandler Regional Medical Center 1955 W. Frye Rd., Chandler 480-728-5655; BreatheEasyAZ.info

GASTROINTESTINAL

BRAIN/NEUROLOGICAL

OSTOMY SUPPORT Nov. 6, 2 p.m. Banner Boswell 13180 N. 103rd Dr., Sun City 602-678-4441

YOUNG ADULT BRAIN INJURY Nov. 12, 6–7:30 p.m. St. Joseph’s Barrow 350 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix 602-996-1396 or 602-406-6688

OSTOMY SUPPORT Nov. 8, 2–4 p.m. First Presbyterian Church 161 N. Mesa Dr., Mesa 480-812-0324

PROGRESSIVE SUPRANUCLEAR PALSY SUPPORT Nov. 15, 1:30–3:30 p.m. Banner Thunderbird 5555 W. Thunderbird Rd., Glendale 602-920-4632; tsebastiani@cox.net

OSTOMY SUPPORT Nov. 11, 6 p.m. Elite Home Healthcare Services 2140 W. Greenway Rd., Phoenix 602-246-8221 ESOPHAGUS & STOMACH DISORDERS Nov. 12, 11 a.m.–noon By St. Luke’s at Saguaro Public Library 2808 N. 46th St., Phoenix Register: 877-351-WELL (9355) OSTOMY SUPPORT Nov. 20, 12:30 p.m. La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church 6300 E. Bell Rd., Scottsdale 623-580-4120

UROLOGICAL/PROSTATE PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT Nov. 6, 6–7:30 p.m. By Cancer Support Community 360 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix Register: 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org FREE PROSTATE CANCER SCREENING Nov. 8, 8 a.m.–noon Arizona State Urology 6320 W. Union Hills Dr., Glendale Appointments: 602-547-3806; SWProstateCancer@aol.com INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS SUPPORT Nov. 9, 2 p.m. Phoenix Baptist Hospital 2000 W. Bethany Home Rd., Phoenix

BRAIN ANEURYSM SUPPORT Nov. 19, 6–8 p.m. St. Joseph’s Barrow 350 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix 760-333-7658; Kimberly@JoeNiekroFoundation.org BRAIN TUMOR SUPPORT Nov. 25, 6–8 p.m. St. Joseph’s Barrow 350 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix 623-205-6446 BRAIN INJURY SUPPORT Nov. 27, 6–7:30 p.m. St. Joseph’s Barrow 350 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix 602-508-8024 or 602-406-6688

PARENTING GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN Various dates, times & locations By Benevilla 623-207-6016; benevilla.org GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN Various dates, times & locations By Duet 602-274-5022; DuetAZ.org CIRCLE OF MOTHERS Nov. 5, 12, 19 & 26, 10 a.m.–noon Banner Estrella 9201 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix 602-230-2273

BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT Nov. 6, 6 p.m. Nov. 10, 17 & 24, 1:30 p.m. Banner Estrella 9201 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix 602-230-2273 SUPPORT THROUGH OTHER PARENTS Nov. 6, 12, 20 & 27, 7–9 p.m. First Presbyterian Church 161 N. Mesa Dr., Mesa 623-846-5464; SupportThroughOtherParents.org MOTHER-TO-MOTHER SUPPORT Nov. 7 & 28, 10–11:30 a.m. St. Joseph’s Barrow 350 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix 877-602-4111 BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT Nov. 10, 17 & 24, 10–11:30 a.m. St. Joseph’s Barrow 350 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix 602-406-4954 SUPPORT THROUGH OTHER PARENTS Nov. 11, 18, 25 & Dec. 2, 7–9 p.m. Larkspur Christian Church 3302 W. Larkspur Dr., Phoenix 623-846-5464; SupportThroughOtherParents.org BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT Nov. 12, 6–7:30 p.m. St. Joseph’s Barrow 350 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix 602-996-1396 or 602-406-6688 PARENTS OF ADULTS WITH INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES Nov. 21, 9:30–10:30 a.m. By Benevilla at Lakeview Methodist Church 10298 W. Thunderbird Rd., Sun City 623-584-4999

WEIGHT LOSS BARIATRIC SURGERY SEMINARS Various dates, times & locations By Banner Health BannerHealth.com; 480-543-2606 WEIGHTLOSSSURGERYSEMINARS Various dates & times Bridges Center for Surgical Weight Management

at St. Luke’s, 555 N. 18th St., Phoenix Register: 800-248-5553 Webinar: BridgesAZ.com WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY SEMINARS Various dates, times & locations By Scottsdale Healthcare 480-882-4636; BariatricSurgeryAZ.com

HEARING LOSS HEARING LOSS SUPPORT Nov. 13, 12:45–2:30 p.m. By Hearing Loss Association of America at Ed Robson Library 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes 301-657-2248; HearingLoss.org; ReggieFaith@gmail.com HEARING LOSS SUPPORT Nov. 19, 1:30–3:30 p.m. By Hearing Loss Association of America at Fountain Hills Community Center 13001 N. LaMontana Dr., Fountain Hills 301-657-2248; HearingLoss.org; KFonville@fhfh.az.gov HEARING LOSS SUPPORT Nov. 20, 1:30–3:30 p.m. By Hearing Loss Association of America at Lions Foundation Campus 9451 N. 99th Ave., Peoria 301-657-2248; HearingLoss.org; melanie.orourke@gmail.com

VALLEY FEVER INFO AZ VICTIMS OF VALLEY FEVER ArizonaVictimsOfValleyFever.org 623-584-8331; pat-valleyfever@live.com 602-242-9527; mmfcreate@aol.com VALLEY FEVER CENTER FOR EXCELLENCE 602-406-8253; vfce.arizona.edu ValleyFeverCenter@ DignityHealth.org

POISON CONTROL BANNER GOOD SAMARITAN Poison & Drug Information Center Hotline: 800-222-1222

a-z I N F O R M AT I O N O N L I N E

ABRAZO HEALTH CARE: AbrazoHealth.com Arizona Heart Institute and Arizona Heart, Arrowhead, Maryvale, Paradise Valley, Phoenix Baptist and West Valley hospitals BANNER HEALTH: BannerHealth.com BARROW NEUROLOGICAL INSTITUTE: TheBarrow.org CARDON CHILDREN’S MEDICAL CENTER: BannerHealth.com CHANDLER REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER: ChandlerRegional.org JOHN C. LINCOLN HOSPITAL: JCL.com MARICOPA INTEGRATED HEALTH SYSTEM: MIHS.org MAYO CLINIC: MayoClinic.com MERCY GILBERT MEDICAL CENTER: MercyGilbert.org MOUNTAIN VISTA MEDICAL CENTER: MVMedicalCenter.com MUHAMMAD ALI PARKINSON CENTER: TheBarrow.org/NeurologicalServices PHOENIX CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL: PhoenixChildrens.org SCOTTSDALE HEALTHCARE: SHC.org ST. JOSEPH’S HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL CENTER: StJosephs-Phx.org ST. LUKE’S MEDICAL CENTER: StLukesMedCenter.com TEMPE ST. LUKE’S HOSPITAL: TempeStLukesHospital.com

INTERESTED IN PARTICIPATING IN CLINICAL STUDIES?

Passport to Health: Living life free from joint pain Nov. 18, 6-7:30 pm Banner Baywood Medical Center Nov. 19, 7-8:30 pm Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center

Call 480-301-4626 for more information. AR-0008165201-02

AR-0008287300-01

GENERAL CANCER SUPPORT Various dates & times By Cancer Support Community 360 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix 602-712-1006; rsvp@cscaz.org

Nov. 20, 6-7:30 pm Banner Desert Medical Center RSVP: (602) 230-CARE (2273)

All of my big plans were put on hold when I thought I had a bad cold and it turned out to be heart failure. After a heart transplant, I feel lucky to be here. My answer was Mayo Clinic. Adam Janusz

At Mayo Clinic, Adam was diagnosed with giant cell myocarditis, a devastating disease that ,?M@- 04@BM# 6,L->1 ,M=@$:<#@ =@0;M=6 *@,*;@2 C@ :0# ,LM83@A :<M= 0 %<F'@-M$<BL;0$ )##<#M !@I<B@ E%')!D 0-A :0# 0/;@ M, >, =,.@ M, :0<M ?,$ =<# -@: =@0$M2 J,$ .,$@ <-?,$.0M<,- ,$ M, #B=@AL;@ 0- 0**,<-M.@-M1 I<#<M .06,B;<-<B2,$>G0$<5,-0 ,$ B0;; (F9++F""KF&&H72

Visit mayoclinic.org/arizona

AR-0008165201-01

Go from a life of back pain

to a lifetime of living.

Natalie Gulbis

LPGA Player and Laser Spine Institute Patient

FINALLY, AN ALTERNATIVE TO TRADITIONAL OPEN BACK SURGERY. It’s time for you or a loved one

to stop suffering. Do what more than 45,000 people have done and get your life back. If you’ve been putting off neck or back surgery, come learn about a proven technique that’s minimally invasive. BRING YOUR MRI OR CT SCANS and meet one-on-one with our physicians who will review them and discuss treatment for your speciﬁc condition.

Learn more about neck and back surgery options by attending our FREE MEDICAL SEMINAR Saturday, November 15 at 11 a.m.

EXPERTS IN TREATING CONDITIONS SUCH AS: Pinched nerve

Laser Spine Institute 8888 E. Raintree Drive | Scottsdale, Arizona 85260

THE ADVANTAGES OF MINIMALLY INVASIVE SPINE SURGERY AT LASER SPINE INSTITUTE • 97% patient recommendation rate

• No lengthy recovery*

• Minimally invasive outpatient procedure

• Board-certiﬁed surgeons+

Bulging/herniated disc ] Scoliosis Spinal stenosis ]

All it takes is an incision less than 1-inch.

Arthritis of the spine Sciatica ] Other chronic conditions

To register, call: 1-866-209-8723 or visit SpineSeminar.com *Each patient is different. Results may vary. +For more information visit LaserSpineInstitute.com/surgeons. Medicaid currently not accepted. AR-0008292636-01