HEALTH & WELLNESS ISSUE
Welcome to the health and wellness issue! This issue always feels personal to me. Like many, I’ve wrestled with the idea of what a “healthy lifestyle” should look like. But over time, I’ve learned that it’s not about being perfect—it’s about being consistent, kind to ourselves, and open to growth.
My own path to better health has been a mix of missteps, discoveries, and small wins. One of the things that grounds me most is spending time outdoors. Whether it’s hiking, walking, or just sitting in the sunshine, nature has a way of restoring both body and mind. It’s a reminder that health isn’t only about discipline or routine—it’s also about joy, balance, and doing what makes you feel alive. While my husband loves to be active outside playing golf, I can find joy being outside in the backyard, reading in my hammock!
I’ve had to learn what foods are good for my body, and recently, what foods are lower in sodium! Eating fresh and healthy isn’t just about restriction—it’s about fueling your body so you can show up fully for the things you love. When we nourish ourselves with whole, vibrant foods, we’re giving our bodies the energy and nutrients they need to thrive. It’s amazing how much more alive we feel when we prioritize what goes on our plates. Good food fuels good days, whether you're chasing kids, hitting the gym, or simply soaking up the sunshine. It’s not just about eating “right”—it’s about eating in a way that helps you feel your best, so you can do your best.
embrace it. From farm-fresh goods to smoothies and everything in between, family-owned Breaux Farms in Thibodaux has something for everyone– encouraging locals to live their happiest and healthiest lives. Local entrepreneurs Cecil and Leah Breaux combined their businesses and ideas into one and recently officially turned Breaux Farms into a multi-faceted business, offering organic smoothies, fresh vegetables, homemade canned goods, baked items, and more. Aiming to bring healthy goodness to their family and the community at large, Breaux Farms became a permanent vendor at the Carrot Patch Urban on the Bayou Farmer ’s Market, while anticipating opening their own farm stand on their property soon! Learn more about the Breaux family’s journey to share their take on health and wellness with our community, starting on page 14.
In this issue, we also proudly present What’s Up, Doc?, a special advertising section highlighting local medical professionals and giving you a closer look behind the scenes into their practices. Be sure to check it out, starting on page 20.
Health and wellness isn’t a one-stop vacation-style destination—they’re lifelong journeys shaped by our choices, habits, and mindset. As you flip through the pages of this issue, I hope you’ll find something that speaks to your journey—a fresh perspective to consider, or just the encouragement to take that first (or next) step.
Here’s to a healthier, happier you—one step, one choice, one day at a time. POV
This year’s issue emphasizes a simple but powerful theme: eating fresh. It may seem basic, but it can be life-changing when we
If you could instantly become elite at any obscure sport or physical skill (like slacklining, parkour, or curling), what would it be and why?
HOPE
ETHAN
Competitive shoe-shining because I want to see my face in everyone’s shoes.
If I could instantly become elite at any obscure sport or physical skill, I’d choose golf. While it’s not necessarily obscure in terms of visibility, achieving elite status—especially as a woman—means breaking into a space that still has a lot of room for growth and representation. Golf requires a unique blend of mental strength, precision, and emotional control, and being at the top level would offer the chance to compete internationally, inspire other women, and challenge outdated perceptions in a traditionally male-dominated sport. Plus, it’s a skill that stays with you for life, allowing for continued growth, connection, and even career opportunities off the course.
DEVON
If I could become elite at any skill I would choose playing the piano. Not only would it be a great party trick to perform, but I would be able to understand music better. Recognizing certain notes and even being able to have the knowledge to compose something would be an amazing talent to have.
JEFFREY
Squirrel diving because it seems so exhilarating and peaceful at the same time allowing one to connect to one’s spirit while zooming over God’s beautiful creation.
CASEN
Definitely parkour, because the athleticism would translate over to any other sports that I’m doing. And it would be fun to jump around from object to object... like Spider-Man.
TIMELESS DESIGN MEETS SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY
BY BONNIE RUSHING | PHOTOS BY SAPPHIRE MOON PHOTOGRAPHY
In the heart of downtown Thibodaux, Oscar’s is redefining what it means to host with style. Located at 401 West 3rd Street, this thoughtfully designed venue blends oldworld charm with modern sophistication, offering an unforgettable setting for private and public events alike.
Housed in a building that dates back to the late 1800s or early 1900s, Oscar’s honors its historic roots while embracing a new era of refined celebration. Like much of Thibodaux, where preserved architecture whispers of the past, this space echoes the elegance of a bygone time with every detail. With design by Whitney Bouterie and construction by Eric Tate, Oscar’s was crafted to reflect an upscale, old-world aesthetic—warm, welcoming, and rich with texture. From the moment you enter, the
moody blue walls and herringbone wood floors draw you in, while tufted leather seating and brass accents offer timeless elegance. Framed vintage photographs and curated artwork—including original work by internationally renowned artist Isabelle Jacopin—add yet another layer of authenticity and cultural richness.
The bar is a showpiece, combining high-end spirits with custom design. Golden pendant lighting casts a soft glow over wood-andglass shelving, creating an atmosphere that’s both sophisticated and intimate. It’s not just a bar—it’s an experience. Even the restrooms don’t miss a beat. Deep green subway tile, crystal lighting, and gold fixtures elevate what’s often overlooked, offering boutique luxury from floor to ceiling.
Oscar’s is more than just beautiful—it’s built to serve. With adaptable spaces for weddings, receptions, corporate events, and intimate gatherings, it offers flexible luxury, complete with catering from Dominique’s Bistro by Chef Dominique Schexnayder.
Owner Jamie Bouterie, a Thibodaux native, envisioned Oscar’s as a space where lasting memories are made- whether it’s a family celebration, a night out with friends or a meaningful business gathering. “We wanted to bring something special to downtown. Our vision was to craft a setting where you felt like you were in a big city with a small town charm,” he shared.
That vision has come to life in every corner. Oscar’s delivers hospitality, craftsmanship, and Southern charm—all wrapped in a venue as timeless as the city it calls home. POV 1
BY ISABELLE PINTO | PHOTOS BY CHANNING CANDIES
From farm-fresh goods to smoothies and everything in between, family-owned Breaux Farms in Thibodaux has something for everyone– encouraging locals to live their happiest and healthiest lives.
Husband and wife Cecil and Leah Breaux always had the goal to lead a self-sufficient life, and to set this example for their daughter, 13-year-old Aubree. "We always joke that we were born in the wrong era," laughed Cecil. "Leah loves to run our home
and we have both been working towards running a farm full-time, eating what we grow, and educating others on this life as well."
In 2017, the Breaux family purchased land in Thibodaux and officially began working towards their dream of a farm-fresh life. Starting small with raised beds and a few chickens, the Breaux’s soon expanded into the business aspect of farming, hoping to spread the goodness to others across the
Houma-Thibodaux area. The couple began a small farmer ’s market in Houma where they sold goods from Breaux Farms, and in 2022, created their well-known Bayou Blends– a specialty mobile cocktail and smoothie bar which could be rented for weddings, events, festivals, and more.
"The farmer’s market did very well and we were seeing success with it, but it was a difficult location for people to come to, so we ended up cancelling it. We then decided
that Bayou Blends wasn't the right thing for us to pursue either, because we had put the farm on pause to run it," explained Leah. "We knew it was time to refocus on the farm as a whole and see what we could do there."
At the beginning of 2025, Leah and Cecil decided to combine their ideas into one and officially turned Breaux Farms into a multi-faceted business, offering organic smoothies, fresh vegetables, homemade
We understand the unique needs of small business owners, because we run small businesses too. Contact us today for your small business insurance.
Let’s talk today.
Rene Carreker Ins Agcy Inc
Rene Carreker, Agent 1221 Museum Drive Houma, LA 70360
Bus: 985-851-2554
Darryl M Brue, Agent 1950 Prospect Blvd Houma, LA 70363 Bus: 985-851-2584
Mark Andrepont, Agent 5947 W Main Street Houma, LA 70360 Bus: 985-876-5815
canned goods, baked items, and more. Still aiming to bring healthy goodness to their family and the community at large, Breaux Farms became a permanent vendor at the Carrot Patch Urban on the Bayou Farmer ’s Market, which takes place every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. in Thibodaux.
Cecil and Leah post advance menus of what can be purchased each week on their Facebook page, which includes fan-favorites like rustic artisan bread of different flavors, Louisiana strawberry jam, goat milk soap, farmhouse cookies, muffins, freeze-dried organic fruit, and of course, their beloved smoothies and refreshers.
In addition to their weekly presence at the Carrot Patch Farmer ’s Market, the Breaux’s are also working to eventually
a self-serve honor system where people can come, see our farm, and get fresh goods. We will still be at the Carrot Patch, but are hoping this will be a great addition to our farm that we can introduce by the end of this summer."
As Cecil and Leah look towards the future, they hope to not only continue expanding Breaux Farm’s reach, but to also set an example for others to live a farm-fresh life. "When we started back in 2017, we wanted to live as self-sustainably as possible– but when COVID-19 hit, more and more people decided to live this life, sometimes even out of necessity," said Leah. "We really see ourselves as educators and want to help teach people that a self-sustainable life is possible, even with a full time job like Cecil has."
Houma Family Dental
own website, “The Breaux Farmhouse Blog,” to share life lessons, tips, and tricks about cultivating a homestead with her followers. Leah further runs a wellness Facebook page, “Wild Root Wellness,” to explore the herbal and holistic side of healthy living. "It’s nothing fancy, but I want people to know that health and wellness can be right at their fingertips," continued Leah. "I wanted to share what I had learned through my years of trial and error."
While community education is important to the Breaux’s, at the heart of this mission is their family values and daughter Aubree. "We started Breaux Farms for our family, and we love seeing these lessons imparted on her," said Cecil. very hands on and not afraid to get dirty, so as long as she can handle the tough tasks, we know she'll be okay. Just like the plants, we know she, our family, and our farm will keep growing strong.” POV
Your Partner in Good Health
Terrebonne General Health System honors our dedicated physicians for improving the health and wellness of the patients and families in our community and for their tireless devotion that saves lives each day!
Dr. Ben Adams Anesthesiology
Dr. Eric Engeron Cardiology
Dr. Vinod Nair Cardiology
Dr. Shane Prejean Cardiology
Dr. Craig Walker Cardiology
Dr. Kanwar Singh Cardiology
Dr. Dikshya Sharma Cardiology
Dr. Michael Prejean, Jr. Anesthesiology
Dr. Spencer Robichaux Anesthesiology
Dr. Jared Roussel Anesthesiology
Dr. Richard Abben Cardiology
Dr. Ayush Arora Cardiology
Dr. Darrell Solet Cardiology
Dr. Peter Fail Cardiology
Dr. Matthew Finn Cardiology
Dr. William Ladd Cardiology
Dr. Owen Mogabgab Cardiology
Dr. Pradeep Nair Cardiology
Dr. McCall Walker Cardiology
Dr. Larick David Emergency Medicine
Dr. Guy Lefort Emergency Medicine
Dr. Michael Straney Emergency Medicine
Dr. Deborah McCollum Cardiothoracic Surgery
Dr. Rory Eschete II Emergency Medicine
Dr. Charles Ochello, Jr. Emergency Medicine
Dr. Stanford White Emergency Medicine
Dr. Donald Netherland Cardiothoracic Surgery
Dr. Brian Falkner Emergency Medicine
Dr. Justin Okons Emergency Medicine
Dr. Sindhura Bandaru Endocrinology
Dr. Miguel Aguilera Jr Emergency Medicine
Dr. Gerald Foret, III Emergency Medicine
Dr. Phillip Paulk Emergency Medicine
Dr. Rachel Coleman Endocrinology
Dr. Elisa Arrillaga Emergency Medicine
Dr. Samuel Ganier Emergency Medicine
Dr. Harold Plauche Emergency Medicine
Dr. Wesley Blocker Emergency Medicine
Dr. Brendon Gros Emergency Medicine
Dr. Brian Roberts Emergency Medicine
Dr. Richard Haydel Family Medicine
Dr. Mary Eschete Infectious Diseases
Dr. Scott Haydel Family Medicine
Dr. David Pellegrin Gastroenterology
Dr. Donald Schwab, Jr. General Surgery
Dr. Brian Matherne Family Medicine
Dr. Caleb Dupre Hospital Medicine
Dr. Andrew Bergeron Hospital Medicine
Dr. Nicholas Rau Family Medicine
Dr. Eric Jukes General Surgery
Dr. William St. Martin Family Medicine
Dr. Neil Lyons General Surgery
Dr. James Matthew Watkins, Jr. Family Medicine
Dr. David Rau General Surgery
Dr. Michael Watkins Family Medicine
Dr. Patrick St. Martin Sports Medicine
Dr. Arthur Toups Hospital Medicine
Dr. Frederick Rau General Surgery
Dr. Sarah Oncale Hospital Medicine
Dr. Oleg Sinyavskiy Hospital Medicine
Dr. Nathan Sutton Hospital Medicine
Dr. T. Christopher Berry General Surgery
Dr. Fadi Abou-Issa Internal Medicine
Dr. Emma Fleckman Hospital Medicine
Dr. Logan Ledet Infectious Diseases
Dr. Alain Chesnut Internal Medicine
Dr. Allen Vander Nephrology
Gynecology
Surgery
Dr. Russell Henry Internal Medicine
Dr. Sheena Duplantis Obstetrics/ Gynecology
Dr. Rockne Hymel III Oncology/ Radiation
Gynecology
Dr. Lesley Meng Oncology/ Hematology Surgery
Gynecology
Surgery
Dr. Patrick Walker Internal Medicine
Dr. Sandra Grant Neonatology
Dr. Sukesh Manthri Oncology
Dr. Bedford Nieve-Cruz Neonatology
Dr. Michelle Andre Obstetrics/ Gynecology
Dr. Adam Arceneaux Internal Medicine
Dr. Gregory Maidoh Nephrology
Dr. Channing Sanders Obstetrics/ Gynecology
Dr. Janeiro Valle Goffin Oncology/
Dr. Chad Simon Otolaryngology
Dr. Matthew Beyer Otorhinolaryngology
Dr. Aruna Sangisetty Pediatrics
Dr. Ugochukwu Ezema Pulmonary Medicine Critical Care
Dr. John Steigner Radiology
Dr. David Hagen Otorhinolaryngology
Dr. Jill Sutton Pediatrics
Tania Kohal Pulmonary Medicine Critical Care
Dr. William Tiemann Radiology
Dr. Logan St. Cyr Palliative Medicine
Dr. Hector Linares Physical Medicine/ Rehabilitation
Dr. Andrea Lorio Pulmonary Medicine Critical Care
Dr. Brigitte DeMoss Pathology
Dr. Jeffrey Rau Plastic Surgery
Dr. Ashley Prejean Radiology
Dr. Robert Alexander Urology
Dr. Andrew Hoffmann, III Pathology
Dr. Ralph Bourgeois Pulmonary Diseases
Dr. Bryan Rau Radiology
Dr. Stephen Charbonnet Urology
Dr. Amber Poirot Wound Care
Dr. Josean Ramos Pathology
Dr. Peomia C. Brown Pulmonary Medicine/ Critical Care/Sleep Medicine
Dr. Jeremy Rau Radiology
Dr. Haden Lafaye Urology
Dr. Nicole McKee Administrative Staff
ASSOCIATE CONSULTING:
DERMATOLOGY
Dr. Alexis R. Duke
Dr. Philip M. Neal ENDOCRINOLOGY
Dr. Mariam H. Menhem
Dr. David A. Sisam FAMILY MEDICINE
Dr. Kirk A. Dantin III
Dr. Robert W. Davis
Dr. Andre F. Guidry
Dr. Mark A. Walker NEUROLOGICAL INTRAOPERATIVE MONITORING
Dr. Kevin J. Callerame
Dr. James N. Domingue
Dr. Crystal S. Janani
Dr. Gregory Ward NEUROLOGY
Dr. Carlos A. Cevallos
Dr. Robin C. Davis
Dr. Benjamin K. Simpson
Dr. Colin N. Van Hook
Dr. David L. Weir ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY
Dr. Allen T. Borne
Dr. Christopher E. Cenac Sr. OTOLARYNGOLOGY
Dr. Jacques E. Gaudet
Dr. Justin M. Tenney
Dr. Guy P. Zeringue III PAIN MANAGEMENT
Dr. Karl G. Haydel Jr.
Dr. Jimmy N. Ponder Jr. PATHOLOGY
Dr. Tim G. Peterson PEDIATRIC CARDIOLOGY
Dr. Stefanie Y. Cheang
Dr. Ivory I. Crittendon III
Dr. Kamill R. Del Toro
Dr. Kelly K. Gajewski
Dr. Minghua A. Hao
Dr. Walter J. Hoyt Jr.
Dr. Thomas R. Kimball
Dr. James S. Krulisky
Dr. Diego A. Lara
Dr. Victor W. Lucas Jr.
Dr. Scott L. Macicek
Dr. Prashant K. Minocha
Dr. Jessica H. Mouledoux
Dr. Theodorus J. Mulder
Dr. Shannon K. Powell
Dr. Craig A. Sable
Dr. Michael D. Weiland Jr.
Dr. Michael G. White
Dr. Song-Gui Yang
Dr. Thomas W. Young
PEDIATRIC NEUROLOGY
Dr. Fawad A. Khan
Dr. Isaac A. Molinero Rosales
Dr. Stephen L. Nelson Jr.
PODIATRY
Dr. Andrea J. Leonards
Dr. Adam J. Ziegenbusch
TELESTROKE
Dr. Marika-Foteni Antimisiaris
Dr. Osvaldo A. Camilo
Dr. Louis A. Cannizzaro
Dr. Giuseppe Ciccotto
Dr. Julia I. Deyeva
Dr. Lauren E. Dunn
Dr. Ifeanyi O. Iwuchukwu
Dr. Ali E. Kaabi
Dr. Muhammad T. Khan
Dr. Namir A. Khandker
Dr. Tara A. Kimbrough
Dr. Kim M. Lee
Dr. Uday S. Nadimpally
Dr. Mugilan Poongkunran
Dr. Chintan Rupareliya
Dr. Spurthi S. Surpur
Dr. Joseph Tarsia III
Dr. Gabriel A. Vidal
Dr. Richard M. Zweifler
ASSOCIATE
COURTESY:
ANESTHESIOLOGY
Dr. Beau M. Bergeron
Dr. Michael A. Cordone
Dr. Katherine S. Cox
Dr. Stephanie M. Guzman
Dr. Stephen K. Jones
Dr. Julia B. Kendrick
Dr. Brooke L. LeBlanc
Dr. Bethany L. Menard CARDIOLOGY
Dr. Amit N. Amin
Dr. Robert H. Drennan
Dr. Ahmad Y. Jabbar
Dr. Paritosh Kafle
Dr. Mohammed S. Rais EMERGENCY MEDICINE
Dr. Mary A. Difranco HEMATOLOGY/ONCOLOGY
Dr. Robert K. Gamble
INTERNAL MEDICINE
Dr. Anne E. Price NEONATOLOGY
Dr. Lisa M. Barbiero
Dr. Anne E. Tufton
NEPHROLOGY
Dr. James K. Modisette PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION
Dr. Monica V. Benson RADIOLOGY
Dr. Syed A. Akbar
Dr. Matthew W. Allen
Dr. Sandeep N. Amesur
Dr. Suzanne L. Aquino
Dr. Kristen B. Ashby
Dr. Daniel M. Baker
Dr. David K. Bass
Dr. Troy A. Belle
Dr. Robert Berger
Dr. Michael D. Berven
Dr. John W. Boardman
Dr. James Brull
Dr. Dennis M. Burton
Dr. Mark L. Camens
Dr. Courtney C. Carter
Dr. Lillian W. Cavin
Dr. Corey W. Chopra
Dr. Stephen D. DeFriez
Dr. Elizabeth C. Dubovsky
Dr. Kenneth A. Edgar
Dr. Mark A. Faltaous
Dr. Rashmi Hande
Dr. James C. Haug
Dr. Laura A. Hotchkiss
Dr. Lisa B. Hughes
Dr. Alan H. Itkin
Dr. Vitaly Z. Izgur
Dr. Feras M. Jalab
Dr. Ellen Johnson
Dr. William A. Pace
Dr. William E. Phillips II
Dr. Asti Pilika
Dr. Teppe Popovich
Dr. Faranak Sadri Tafazoli
Dr. Dishant G. Shah
Dr. Shree J. Shah
Dr. Masood A. Siddiqui
Dr. Mona A. Silady
Dr. Sanford M. Smoot
Dr. Bhavika Trivedi
Dr. Qazi F. Uddin
Dr. Alexander R. Vogel
SLEEP MEDICINE
Dr. David B. Ware UROLOGY
Dr. Thomas E. Dukovac
Dr. Stephanie E. Hughes
Dr. Walter J. Simoneaux Jr. WOUND CARE
Dr. Luis R. Arencibia
ALLERGY AND IMMUNOLOGY
ASSOCIATE SUBSPECIALTY:
Dr. Robert D. Haydel Jr. GENERAL SURGERY
Dr. Brian J. Marino MATERNAL AND FETAL MEDICINE
Dr. Joseph R. Biggio Jr.
Dr. Roberto X. Calix
Dr. Sherri A. Longo NEPHROLOGY
Dr. Herminio M. Suazo-Vasquez NEUROLOGY
Dr. Donald S. Gervais Jr.
Dr. Edward S. Haight OPHTHALMOLOGY
Dr. Arthur J. delaHoussaye ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY
Dr. David G. Baughman
Dr. Martin J. Duplantier
Dr. Christopher J. Saal PAIN MANAGEMENT
Dr. Andrew E. Barker
Dr. Michael S. Haydel PEDIATRIC OPHTHALMOLOGY
Dr. Horatio S. Eustis Jr.
Dr. Rachel T. Fuerst
Dr. Daniel G. Nelson
PLASTIC SURGERY
Dr. Mark W. Stalder RADIATION ONCOLOGY
Dr. Andrew C. Elson
Dr. Rockne J. Hymel III
Dr. Sheldon A. Johnson
Dr. Maurice L. King III
Dr. Charles G. Wood
Dr. Konstantin A. Kovtun
COMMUNITY AFFILIATE STAFF: DERMATOLOGY
Dr. Ian T. Watson FAMILY MEDICINE:
Dr. Danielle D. Angeron
Dr. Joseph M. Garcia INTERNAL MEDICINE
Dr. Seth T. Haydel
SPONSORED CONTENT
WHAT’S UP Doc?
SOUTH LOUISIANA MEDICAL ASSOCIATES
Dr. Ernesto Levy • Rheumatologist • www.slma.cc
Doc?, a special advertising section a closer look behind the scenes.
Rheumatologist Dr. Ernesto Levy brings global experience and a deep commitment to patient care. Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he excelled in biology from an early age and was inspired to become the first doctor in his family. The birth of his daughter was a turning point—solidifying his resolve to build a meaningful and stable future through medicine.
His passion for rheumatology began early in his career while training under one of Argentina’s top specialists. Witnessing the struggles of patients with conditions like lupus, Dr. Levy felt compelled to pursue a more compassionate, informed approach to care. That drive led him to the United States, where he rapidly advanced his training in the field.
Known for taking time with each patient, Dr. Levy believes in listening closely to fully understand their condition and personalize treatment. His experience as a locum tenens physician across different regions has shaped his practice and broadened his perspective.
He values SLMA’s mission to make healthcare accessible for all and enjoys working alongside a team that shares that vision. Ongoing training through the NIH’s rheumatology program keeps him on the cutting edge.
His message to patients: “You are not alone. There is always hope—and when I’m your doctor, I’m in your corner. Never stop fighting, your health is worth it."
CARDIOVASCULAR INSTITUTE OF THE SOUTH
CIS EXPANDS SERVICES TO PRIORITIZE YOUR HEART HEALTH
For 43 years, Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS) has provided patients with highly specialized cardiovascular care in our communities. We're proud to provide services that are the first of their kind in our region—like our Cardiovascular Ambulatory Surgery Center in Gray and the Xpress Care Clinic in Thibodaux—programs designed to address your needs with highquality services, easier access, and at a lower cost.
AMBULATORY SURGERY CENTER (ASC) IN GRAY
The Cardiovascular Institute of the South’s Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) in Gray offers sameday diagnostic and interventional cardiac and peripheral procedures in a comfortable outpatient setting.
At CIS, we deliver personalized, compassionate care—and the ASC elevates that commitment in a smaller, focused environment designed for one-on-one attention. Patients benefit from a seamless experience that combines advanced diagnostics, specialized treatments, and interventional expertise under one roof. Our physicians—experts in interventional cardiology, peripheral vascular disease, electrophysiology, valve disease, and vein disease—collaborate closely to provide innovative, patient-centered care. Standardized protocols, cutting-edge catheterization labs, and a dedicated cardiovascular clinic for follow-up care support efficiency, safety, and excellent outcomes.
“The ASC allows our physicians to perform interventional procedures in a world-class facility at a lower cost than if performed at a hospital,” said Dr. Craig Walker, Founder of Cardiovascular Institute of the South. “Because the procedures are ‘elective,’ scheduling is more consistent. Patients also have less exposure to infection, and the check-in process is simple.”
Visit this clinic for new or worsening, active symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, palpitations, high blood pressure, dizziness, or swelling— especially for those with a history of heart failure. For severe symptoms such as crushing chest pain, bleeding, or stroke warning signs, go directly to the emergency room.
By operating outside of a traditional hospital setting, the ASC offers a more cost-effective option, streamlined workflows, and reduced out-of-pocket expenses for patients.
XPRESS CARE CLINIC IN THIBODAUX
The Xpress Care Clinic in Thibodaux offers same-day evaluations for nonemergent cardiac and peripheral vascular symptoms. This clinic is available to both new and existing patients, ages 18 and older, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
“I’m very proud that we were able to start the Xpress Care Clinic in this community,” said Dr. Bart Denys, Interventional Cardiologist at CIS. “If we can make a little dent in heart disease by helping people come in right away—before it becomes a fullblown emergency—I think we’ve achieved our goal.”
Charlotte Buisson, a new CIS patient, said, “I was given an appointment that same day and was pleasantly surprised with the quick service! Needing cardiology care can be scary sometimes, but the staff was so considerate and gentle. We are so fortunate to have this type of access to care within our community through CIS.”
Insurance will be billed for these services, and a standard co-pay will be collected. Any further testing or procedures will follow your insurance plan’s guidelines.
With 23 locations across Louisiana and Mississippi, CIS is committed to providing our patients the highest quality cardiovascular care available. No matter where you are, our expert team is ready to deliver the highest quality heart care with compassion and innovation. Visit us today at www.cardio.com to learn more about how our specialized services can support your heart health.
WE SUPPORT A HEALTHIER FUTURE |
BY KATIE RICHARD, MA, BSN, RN, DIRECTOR OF
ALTERING YOUR LIFESTYLE HELPS TO REDUCE DEMENTIA RISKS
Our physical and mental well-being is often impacted by risks such as aging and genetics, which are out of our control. However, we can alter certain behaviors and habits for better health.
Studies indicate that nearly 40% of dementia cases may be prevented or delayed with lifestyle and behavior changes. The Alzheimer ’s Association identifies several risk factors and medical conditions harmful to brain health, including:
1. Diabetes
2. Alcohol
3. Blood pressure
4. Diet
5. Social and physical inactivity
6. Weight
7. Smoking
8. Stress and depression
9. Sleep
10. Mental acuity
Along with lowering risks of memory loss and cognitive decline, altering lifestyle behaviors can lessen risks for cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Diabetes management
When diabetes is not managed well, excess sugar remains in the blood and can damage the brain and other organs. Eating healthier, increasing physical activity and taking
prescribed medications can help diabetes and lessen impact on the brain.
Alcohol consumption
Excessive alcohol use can lead to learning and memory problems including dementia. The CDC recommends limiting alcohol intake to two drinks or less a day for men and no more than one drink a day for women.
Lower blood pressure
High blood pressure limits blood flow to the brain, impairing cognitive abilities and memory and, in worst cases, increasing risk of stroke. Healthy eating habits, regular physical activity and prescribed medications help lower blood pressure.
Healthy diet
Dietary changes benefit physical and mental health. Green leafy vegetables, berries, healthy fats such as olive oil and avocados, fish and seafood are considered brain-healthy foods. Consumption of ultra-processed foods is linked to higher dementia risk.
Physical and social activity
Staying physically and socially active helps keep the brain healthy. A minimum 2.5 hours weekly of moderate-intensity exercise, plus a couple of hours of strength training increases blood flow to the brain. Maintain regular contact with family and friends to avoid loneliness and depression, which can also lead to cognitive decline.
Healthy weight
Healthy diets and regular exercise help maintain a healthy weight. These factors also contribute to healthy cholesterol levels, another risk factor for brain health.
Smoking
Stopping smoking can lower risks for dementia, stroke, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Stress and depression
Life balance with minimal stress helps minimize depression and anxiety and support brain health. Practice yoga, read, birdwatch, garden or take quiet walks.
Quality sleep
Restful sleep, from 7 to 9 hours nightly, supports brain health. Maintain the same daily sleep-wake cycle, close all screens 1 to 2 hours before bed and keep the room cool.
Active learning
Challenging the mind keeps it busy and healthy. Take continuing education classes, learn new skills, take up a hobby, pick up a paintbrush or learn a new language. Sharp mental acuity benefits brain health and reduces dementia risks.
Talk with your healthcare provider about maintaining a healthier lifestyle. For more information contact Thibodaux Regional Neurology Clinic, 985.493.3090.
The Best Choice
IN SHORT TERM
JOHN DOUCET
It’s always exciting when a travel reporter arrives on assignment in a new place. And one of the first things we seek to learn is the origin of the placename. Such origins are pretty easy to learn in PoV Country. For instance, Lafourche and Terrebonne are French for “the fork” and “good earth.” Galliano, Larose, Leeville, Gheens, Thibodaux, Chauvin, Bourg, and Montegut are named for historical landowners and businessmen. Dulac is French for “the lake.” Cocodrie and Pointe-aux-Chênes are named for an animal and a tree. Bayous Petit Caillou and Grand Caillou are named in French for pebbles. Bayous Blue and Black are named for the perceived colors of their waters. Houma is named for the historical tribe. Cut Off is named for a canal. Grand Isle is an island. Golden Meadow was named for an ill-fated farming enterprise in the early 1900s subsidized by midwestern railroad investors who drained their reclamation farm by carving an outflow canal to Bayou Lafourche, thus giving the village a nickname—“Yankee Canal.”
Whether recovering from a stroke, fall, or other medical condition, our customized rehab program helps you recover quickly so you can get back home. If you’re getting ready for long-term living, we make the transition from home to our community as rewarding as possible. A variety of spacious resident suites offer the ultimate in privacy and comfort.
AMENITIES INCLUDE:
Which brings me, of course, to Kalamazoo, Michigan—a place where the time-honored rules of naming after landowners and businessmen or animals and trees or lakes and canals and islands or even railroad investors cannot possibly apply. Northwest of Chicago, due west of Detroit, and snuggled above Indiana between Lakes Michigan and Erie, Kalamazoo is a small city bigger than Kenner and smaller than Lake Charles. At streetlevel, it is a remarkably picturesque combination of the old and the new structures. In the distance, there’s an old industrial smokestack of concrete and bricks aside a brutaliststyle building of slate and metal panels. Leaving the high-rise hotel with its exterior of glass and aluminum, I am less than a minute away from one-story, flat-topped, red-brick buildings built in the 1950s. There’s a Phillips 66 gas station with a vintage sign (a circle, not a shield) on Portage Street. Not far away is Uncle Ernie’s Pancake House, which by exterior appearance and high quality of food clearly does not represent a national chain. Similarly, O’Reilly’s Auto is really owned and operated by somebody named O’Reilly. Mom-and-pop businesses like these are nestled in small strip malls that stand harmoniously with residential areas. And a remarkable thing about Kalamazoo neighborhoods is that all the multi-story bungalows, prairie-style houses, and Victorian homes are nestled in their own patch of the woods. It seems that folks prefer to build between the firs and broadleafs rather than cut them all down to clear their yards. Unruly neighborhood shrubs also show this sort of rustic harmony.
•MUSIC & MEMORY THERAPY
•KITCHEN THERAPY
•LIVE & LOCAL CONCERTS
•IN-HOUSE THERAPY DOG
•NOVEL EXCURSIONS
•GAMES & CRAFTS
532-1011
Besides trees and shrubs, there are notable animals in Kalamazoo as well. No, there are no swarms of lovebugs or termites like those we might experience at this time of year in PoV Country. But unlike PoV Country, there’s an Alligator Sanctuary here, where gators are preserved in their natural habitat and not under piquante sauce. There are also a good number of Canadian Geese in the parks and on college campuses; they seem to thrive here, with both adults and goslings honking about, despite the fact that their visas could be revoked at any time for no reason. (Maybe that’s why they’re honking.) Despite these animal homes, there is no public zoo. Why? Because the name of it would sound too silly. However, folks have been dealing with their silly sounding placename since the 1700s, when “Kalamazoo” first appeared as a river name on maps. The word sounds so unusual that three centuries later gift shops around town sell T-Shirts with the phrase, "Yes, there really is a Kalamazoo.” Townsfolk sometimes prefer to carve away unnecessary syllables, as did Kazoo Books on Parkview Avenue. In any event, eliminating syllables is much easier to type into smart phone search boxes and thus good for marketing.
Nonetheless, “Kalamazoo” makes a great rhyming word for writers. Like in the phrase “from Kalamazoo to Timbuctoo,” from the Little Golden Book titled The Train from Timbuctoo. Likewise, in Dr. Seuss' Horton Hatches the Egg, Horton the elephant is taken “…to Boston, to Kalamazoo, / Chicago, Weehawken, and Washington, too.” In 1969’s Top 10 hit "Down on the Corner" by Creedence Clearwater Revival, the city name is rhymed with the name of an equally silly sounding musical instrument: “Poor boy twangs the rhythm out on his Kalamazoo / Willy goes into a dance and doubles on kazoo.” In this case, Poor Boy’s “Kalamazoo” is a Gibson guitar, so named because the historic Gibson factory is located in the city.
There is one deep, historical connection to PoV Country in Kalamazoo. This city was the last domicile of the “Lafourche Realty Company,” which may have managed the residual landholdings from the ill-fated Yankee Canal project in the early 1900s. The whereabouts of that yankee office, however, are currently unknown despite my investigative efforts.
But what does the name “Kalamazoo” actually mean? In reality, there are too many answers. You can roam the streets and websites for days, as well as talk to people and to artificial intelligence, and still not arrive at a consensus. Many explanations refer to water, as in “place where water boils” or “reflecting water” or “fast waters” or “smoky waters.” One peculiar explanation is an old Chippewa Indian word meaning “He who is inconvenienced by smoke in his lodge.” This particular explanation may now be obsolete in Michigan, as both medicinal and recreational generation of “lodge smoke” has become permissible by new state laws.
Whatever the meaning of “Kalamazoo” is, there’s one thing that this reporter has learned by investigating the city. I came to this conclusion while eating at Bimbo’s Pizza on Burdick Street. I also learned that that name is a contraction of “bambino,” which, of course, is Italian for “baby” and, in this case, not any other meaning. The Lesson: Sometimes you just gotta forget the search for meaning and eat good pizza instead. POV
48th Annual Cajun Heritage Festival
June 6-8
Larose Civic Center
Head down to Larose for the annual decoy show featuring the 2025 Louisiana State Woodcarving Championship Competition, auction, carving demos, duck calling and more!
Gheens Bon Mange Festival
June 6-8
Vacherie Gheens Community Center
Bon Mange’ translated means "good eats," so how could you miss out on this! Join the fun of the annual Gheens Bon Mange' Festival featuring fresh cooked foods like griades, gumbo, jambalaya, cracklins, and more.
Miss Cherie’s Memorial Touch-A-Truck
June 7, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Terrebonne Parish Main Library
The Terrebonne Parish Main Library will host their popular summer event, Miss Cherie’s Memorial Touch-A-Truck! This event is free and open to the public. Various community vehicles such as fire trucks, tow trucks, cement mixers and delivery trucks will be parked at the Main Library for children of all ages to climb in and explore. Hot dogs, juice boxes and water will be served.
Sweet Magnolias and Southern Charm: A Belmont Derby Affair
June 7, 5 p.m.
Melvin’s Restaurant, Houma
Get ready for an unforgettable evening filled with lots of laughter, high energy, Southern charm and a spirited community connection! Join THRIVE! Bayou Region for Sweet Magnolias and Southern Charm, a signature Derby-inspired affair benefiting the THRIVE! Protégé Youth Initiative. Seats are limited—get your tickets today and THRIVE! with us.
3rd Annual Juneteenth
Heritage Festival
June 15, 3 p.m.
MLK Park, Thibodaux
Join us in commemorating Juneteenth with a full day of celebrations in Thibodaux at the 3rd Annual Juneteenth Freedom Festival! Enjoy live music, vendors, and more.
Princesses & Knights Summer Bash
June 12, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Southdown Plantation & Museum, Houma
Looking for a summer fun day? Join Southdown Museum for a Princesses & Knights Summer Bash! Enjoy snowballs, costume contest, kids activities and more! Entry is free; Snowballs and concessions will be sold.
Allons Danser Cajun French Music and Dancing
June 14, 10 a.m.
Houma Municipal Auditorium
Allons Danser - that’s Cajun French for “Come On and Dance!” Join us for an unforgettable, family-friendly day of Cajun French music and dancing with La-56 and special guest Benjamin Bruce! Doors open at 10 a.m. and the band begins at noon. Tickets are $10 per person; children under 12 are free. Free meal included. Drinks, chili, desserts, and sweets available for purchase! This event is represented by the Cajun French Music Association Bayou Cajun Chapter.
2025 Bayou Region Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
June 18, at 6 p.m
Cypress Columns, Gray
The Community Sports Institute’s Bayou Region Athletic Hall of Fame presented by Gulf Coast Orthopedics will welcome the 2025 inductees at this annual event. The sports-themed banquet honors six local athletes and coaches highlighting their contributions and success. This year’s inductees include Ernest Brown, Mark Davis, Chip Didier, Ed Orgeron, Michael Parenton, and Merle Schexnaildre.
United Houma Nation Celebrating Abilities/Disabilities Powwow
June 28-29
Barry P. Bonvillain Civic Center
The United Houma Nation is excited to invite the community to the 13th Annual Celebrating Abilities/Disabilities Awareness Powwow, a unique event that blends cultural tradition with a special focus on honoring individuals with disabilities. There will be traditional Native American singing and dancing, Native American dress, arts and crafts vendors, local Native American food, and more. The powwow is free and open to the public–you do not need to be affiliated with the United Houma Nation to attend. POV
