A magazine FOr healthy lifestyles IN SEARCY, ARKANSAS.
Don’t call it exercise Activity for seniors
After Joint Replacement
Living life to the fullest
Running
to reduce pain
Painting for therapy
Trailblazing
treatment for lung cancer MAY/JUNE 2013
Bank Better.
contents
MAY/JUNE 2013
F E ATU RE S L I VING LIFE TO T H E F U L L E S T
8
Patients often pain free after joint replacement surgery
COP I NG WIT H TH E U NS E E N
14
12
12
Mental Health Awareness Month brings illness to light
RAMBLERS RUN FOR A CAUSE 1 4 Eight Rose Bud football players took part in the Light Up the Streets 5K
RUNNING TO REDUCE PAIN
24
Women Run Arkansas members share success stories
24
PAINTING FOR THERAPY
32
T RAI L BLAZ I NG T RE AT ME NT F OR LU NG CANC E R
28
Shirley Rogers, of Beebe, enjoys life to the fullest after her total knee replacement in July 2010. Story on page 8. 4 ❘ well now ❘ MAY/JUNE 2013
32
SEARCY’S TOP D OCS ON 35 MAKING T IME FOR YO U RS E L F
36
On The Cover:
28
Woman says painting helps her get through life’s challenges
DON’T C ALL IT E XE RCI S E Light physical activity enhances lives of seniors
36
Life Should Not Be a Pain We pride ourselves on developing dynamic, individualized treatment plans that incorporate manual therapy, therapeutic exercise and other modalities to ensure the quickest and most complete recovery possible. Andrew Abraham, PT, Owner Trina Abraham, PT, Owner Timothy Chung, PT Chris Marshall, PT Ryan Nix, DPT Jessica Ray, PT
Athletes thrive on pushing limits, But what happens when you’ve gone too far? Don’t let pain or injury compromise your competitive edge. We offer a full range of physical therapy and rehabilitation services to get you back on track. Here are just a few of the conditions we specialize in treating: Sports-related injuries | Orthopedic injuries | Neurological problems | Back & neck pain | Joint-related disorders | Balance problems | Repetitive strain injuries | Post-surgical recovery | Sacroiliac Dysfunction
SEARCY PHYSICAL THERAPY 2921 Hawkings • Searcy • 501-268-2513
DES ARC PHYSICAL THERAPY 1108 Hwy. 11 North • Des Arc • 870-256-1555
www.SearcyPT1.com
Searcy Physical Therapy is a member of Rehab Net MAY/JUNE 2013 ❘ well now ❘ 5
well now l contributors
contributors A MAGAZINE FOR HEALTHY LIFESTYLES IN SEARCY, ARKANSAS.
J ACO B B R O W E R Jacob Brower has been a journalism professional for over 13 years and has served as editor of The Daily Citizen since March 2010. In this edition, Brower interviewed local artist Angela Turney about the therapeutic value art provides. “I’m not much of an artist myself, so I am always fascinated to see the work of others who have a gift for art,” Brower said. “Whether it be art, gardening, exercise or reading, I feel it’s important to have a hobby to take your mind off the stresses of everyday life.”
MAY/JUNE 2013 l VOLUME 2 / ISSUE 3
Publisher Mike Murphy
KYLE T R O U T MA N
EDITORIAL
A staff writer for The Daily Citizen, Kyle Troutman developed the ideas for the bulletin items on pages 16-19. Troutman focused on a mix of issues that face local residents, including arthritis, good posture, asthma and Lou Gerhig’s Disease. “With the wide variety of multi-generational families in White County, information on these topics can be extremely useful,” Troutman said. “In doing these articles, I’ve even learned a few things that can help with my day-to-day health.”
Jacob Brower Kyle Troutman Harrison Keegan Matt Burks Erica Goodwin
HARRI S ON K E E G A N Harrison Keegan is the sports editor at The Daily Citizen. Before moving to Searcy, he was a regular contributor at 417 Magazine, a lifestyle magazine in Springfield, Mo. In this issue, Keegan caught up with members of the Rose Bud Ramblers football team who participated in a charity road race.
LAYOUT & DESign Beverly Newton
ADVERTISING
MAT T B URK S Matt Burks is a senior staff writer for The Daily Citizen. With a background in public relations for a nonprofit agency that covered 12 counties in Arkansas, including the funding source of senior activity centers, Burks took an interest in the importance of senior exercise programs. He also discovered that the program Women Run Arkansas at Searcy has significantly improved the health of numerous local residents. “I was amazed that running helped a woman overcome joint pain,” Burks said.
Teresa Harvey Bruce Black Teresa Mason Tonya Abraham
DISTRIBUTION
ERICA GOODWIN
Curtis Stevens
Erica Goodwin serves as a marketing specialist at White County Medical Center. She holds a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Arkansas-Little Rock and a bachelor’s degree in journalism/public relations from Arkansas State University. Erica resides in Searcy with her husband, Jonathan, and their two children, Eliza and Noah. She covers medical innovation for WellNow.
B E VERLY N E W TON Beverly Newton began as a graphic artist at the Community Shopper/Daily Citizen in 1999. She specialized in ad design. Beverly graduated with a bachelor’s degree in art. She developed the typography and graphic elements for the new WellNow magazine and is responsible for the layout and design. Her hobbies include drawing, reading, music, and spending time with her 15-year-old son, Trey.
6 ❘ well now ❘ MAY/JUNE 2013
WellNow is published bimonthly by The Daily Citizen, office at 3000 E. Race Avenue, Searcy, AR 72143, 501-268-8621. The contents of WellNow are copyrighted, and material contained herein may not be copied or reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. Articles in WellNow should not be considered specific advice, as individual circumstances vary. Products and services advertised in the magazine are not necessarily endorsed by WellNow. The
Daily Citizen
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A MAGAZINE FOR HEALTHY LIFESTYLES IN SEARCY, ARKANSAS.
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Shirley Rogers, of Beebe, enjoys living life to the fullest after her total knee replacement in July 2010.
Living life to the fullest Patients often pain free after joint replacement surgery
BY ERICA GOODWIN
8 ❘ well now ❘ MAY/JUNE 2013
A
fter living with pain in her right knee for nearly four years, having a total joint replacement allowed Shirley Rogers, of Beebe, to return to her active lifestyle. The best part is that she has been pain-free since her surgery in 2010. Despite her high pain tolerance, Rogers admitted that pain in her knee was so intense the last 12 months leading up to the surgery that she cried daily. Arthritis, torn ligaments and persistent joint pain took an agonizing toll on her overall well-being and cheery get-up-and-go attitude. Eventually, arthritis pain medication and knee injections offered little relief. “I couldn’t get up and down the stairs at work, and it was becoming more and more difficult to move around the office,” she recalled. “I felt like it wasn’t fair to my co-workers, so I decided it would be best to retire.”
When the pain became too great to bear, Rogers saw her primary care physician and was quickly referred to Orthopaedic Surgeon Kyle Blickenstaff, M.D.; he immediately recommended a total knee replacement. “I wouldn’t consider going anywhere else for treatment other than here in Searcy at White County Medical Center,” Rogers said. “Dr. Blickenstaff was wonderful; he took the time to explain the procedure and answered all my questions.” Within hours of her surgery, Rogers said she surprised her nurse, as well as Dr. Blickenstaff, by getting up to walk to the restroom by herself. “They didn’t encourage me to get up and walk that soon, but I wanted to,” she said. “I was determined to do everything I possibly could to help my knee get better as soon as possible. Even with a terrific surgeon, a huge part of the recovery process depends on the patient.
“
The objective in joint replacement is pain relief. Pain impacts people
in many different ways; it prevents people from normal activity and mo-
“
bility, and it can even affect their mental health because they can’t do all those things they want to do. Through surgery, one of our goals is to return our patient to their lifestyle and be able to do those things again whether it’s playing with grandkids or playing tennis.
– Kyle Blickenstaff, M.D. Orthopaedic Surgeon
You can sit and have a pity party, or you can get up and have fun, and I wanted to have fun!” Physical therapists worked with Rogers during her three-day hospital stay and WCMC Home Health Physical Therapist David Koty visited her home in Beebe. “He did a wonderful job,” she said. “By the time I was ready to go to outpatient rehab, he told them I was doing so well, they would not realize that I was a patient!” “About the second week after surgery, my knee felt so good I couldn’t even tell anything had been done,” she said. “It was a world of difference to be able to live life without the pain I was experiencing before surgery.” Rogers said after surgery on July 26, her knee was fully recovered by September. By early fall, she was riding one mile on her new bike at least once, and sometimes twice, a day. “I would make the same decision to have Dr. Blickenstaff do the surgery all over again,” Rogers said. “I have recommended him to so many people, he also did my husband’s shoulder surgery in January 2011. My care at White County Medical Center was wonderful; I could not have asked for better. I encourage others who are in a similar situation to have surgery as soon as possible. There will be a week or so of some discomfort, but the sooner you have it done, the sooner you will be on the road to recovery.”
Building Better Bones Dr. Blickenstaff is the senior partner in the Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine Department, located inside the Orthopaedic and Spine Center of Central Arkansas at 710 Marion St. in Searcy. He and Orthopaedic Surgeons Thomas Day, M.D., and Justin Franz, M.D., along with Physician Assistant-Certified Lance Kemper, offer all levels of orthopaedic care. “Shirley is an exceptional example of how to approach having a total joint replacement,” he said. “From her positive attitude to her sense of being empowered to take the right steps toward a full recovery, she did an outstanding job.” According to Dr. Blickenstaff, painful arthritic joints are the primary indication for total joint replacements after non-surgical treatments prove ineffective. Over time, cartilage within the joints undergoes wear and tear. In x-ray images, the bones appear to touch, which is how phrases like ‘bone on bone’ emerged. “The objective in joint replacement is pain relief,” he said. “Pain impacts people in many different ways; it prevents people from normal activity and mobility, and it can even affect their mental health because they can’t do all those things they want to do. With
total joint replacement surgery, one goals is to return our patient to their normal lifestyle, whether it be playing with grandkids or playing tennis.” Additional benefits of joint replacement surgery include improved range of motion and alignment, as well as the elimination of chronic swelling of the joint. Dr. Blickenstaff, along with Dr. Day and Dr. Franz, perform total joint replacements on knees, hips and shoulders. “We make every effort to educate our patients about what is involved in joint replacement surgery and address any questions they have about it,” he said. “We understand it is a significant procedure, and we want the best possible result for every patient.” By using high-grade components, Dr. Blickenstaff and his colleagues are able to resurface the joint with replacement parts to give patients, like Shirley Rogers, a new knee and newfound sense of freedom. “Many other measures are taken to ensure the best care for each patient, including the use of specialized operating room gear, meticulous surgical techniques and a dedicated orthopaedic surgical suite that has an advanced air flow and ventilation system,” he added. As surgical techniques have evolved, the orthopaedic surgeons are able to offer less invasive approaches to these procedures, which lessens the pain felt following surgery and a quicker recovery. Dr. Blickenstaff added that he is in constant communication with the anesthesiologists, nurses and physical therapists about pain management during and after surgery for a better overall experience for patients. “Finally, physical therapy participation early in the recovery process plays a significant role in their success and following surgery,” he said.
The Orthopaedic and Spine Center of Central Arkansas is an outpatient department of White County Medical Center. For more information, please call (501) 278-8300 or visit www.orthoandspine.org. MAY/JUNE 2013 ❘ well now ❘ 9
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MAY/JUNE 2013 ❘ well now ❘ 11
Coping with the unseen
Mental Health Awareness Month brings illness to light BY ERIC GOODWIN
12 ❘ well now ❘ MAY/JUNE 2013
W
hite County Medical Center’s Compass and Clearview staff members are constantly aware of the seriousness of the mental health illnesses that plague society. However, many illnesses such as depression, dementia and psychosis are largely misunderstood and often portrayed in a negative light. That is why the Mental Health America organization established May as Mental Health Awareness Month. “On occasion, people need a mental and physical ‘time out’ to assess their current situation,” said Director of Compass and Clearview Larry Bryant. “They need the support and validation of others in similar circumstances; plus, they need direction from our treatment team to help them get back on track. With the various stressors in today’s society, whether it be politics, the economy, a job situation or struggling to deal with family matters, we understand that those can often be difficult issues to overcome. Here, our patients get the encouragement and motivation they need to regroup and move forward with their lives.” Compass is available for treatment of people ages 18 to 64, and Clearview is for adults age 65 and older and both units are located on WCMC’s
South Campus at 1200 Main Street. The mental health programs offer a combination of treatment, rehabilitation and care, as well as education for family members. Therapy is tailored to each patient’s emotional needs including one-on-one and group counseling, family sessions and activities. Compass includes daily patient-driven community meetings where each patient is given the opportunity to give feedback about their treatment to their individual healthcare team. “Their comments are written down with the expectation that there will be an action plan set,” Bryant explained. “We’ve learned that by giving patients an outlet on a frequent basis, it allows them to take ownership of their own treatment, and it lets them know we want to care for them in the best way possible. Through the community meetings, we can address any issues the patient may have; we want to prevent them from distractions as much as possible in order to help them recover.” Clearview Medical Director Jeffery Rains, M.D., said his family has experienced dementia, and he understands the desire families have to care for loved ones with mental health issues. As part of the program at Clearview, Dr. Rains adapts treatments
plans for each patient based on their own living environment. He also customizes medication plans for each patient. “I want to treat my patients as if they were my own family,” he said. “My goal is to maximize each patient’s quality of life.” As a youth, Compass Medical Director Herman R. Clements II, M.D., observed the experiences of a close family member who had a mental illness and the difficulty they experienced in receiving effective treatment. Those insights motivated Dr. Clements to become a psychiatrist; he is board certified in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry. The Compass and Clearview staffs take pride in spending individual time with patients in order to understand their needs. For example, Mental Health Technicians monitor their patients around the clock. Patients have an assigned nurse each shift that is able to educate them about their medications. Social workers provide therapy in a group setting, while individual and family counseling is done as well. Family meetings are used as an opportunity to educate the family on their loved one’s condition and help reinforce to the family members the importance of their role in supporting the patient’s follow-up aftercare plan. Also, family members of Compass and Clearview patients are invited to call anytime to request updates on the patient’s status, and both programs have open visitation hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. so that family members have more time to visit their loved ones at their convenience. “We want to give the families the assurance that we are taking good care of their loved one,” Larry Bryant, Director of Compass and Clearview, said.
Signs and Suggestions
“Everyone struggles, and we all have problems,” said Behavioral Health Community Outreach Coordinator Eric Yarbrough, RN. “There is no shame in that. Nobody wants to come to the hospital for a few days, but if those few days can positively impact the rest of their life, then, it’s well worth it.” Extreme changes in routine may be a sign of depression, which is common among those who have suffered a serious physical complication, such as heart or lung disease, cancer or Orthopaedic pain or injuries. While people from young adults to the elderly experience depression, those in their 70s, 80s and 90s are often less likely to be aware of their
own increase in tiredness, loss of appetite and mood swings as warning signs of depression. According to Yarbrough, they often will not recognize those symptoms due to other physical concerns or are unwilling to acknowledge the symptoms. “People in this age group were taught to pick themselves up by their bootstraps and not to cry when things went wrong,” he said. “Then, they feel like they have to be stoic and trudge on through the bad times, and it is difficult for them to talk about their own emotional issues.” Research has shown that depression is actually linked to the brain’s chemistry and genetics, not personal weakness, in people of all ages. To combat the feelings of sadness, forgetfulness and trouble sleeping, Yarbrough recommends getting out of the house to connect with other people. “Even though it may sound easy to most of us, that is actually a hard thing to do,” he said. “People who are depressed feel unmotivated and want to be isolated, which can turn into a vicious cycle if it is done repeatedly. The more people isolate themselves, the worse they will feel. What we find is that once people have gotten out once or twice, they feel much better.” “Maintain your normal routine as much as possible,” Yarbrough suggested. “Keep your regular sleeping patterns, eat regular meals, exercise, take prescribed medications and go to your appointments. Exercise causes a lot of good-feeling hormones to be released, which can lessen the feelings of depression.” In addition to getting out and about, another way to defy the seasonal blues is to treat yourself to something you enjoy, especially if it’s something you haven’t done in a while – consider it a gift to yourself. However, be sure to avoid alcohol because it acts as a depressant. Yarbrough suggested seeking medical attention for yourself or a loved one if you notice the following symptoms that last longer than two weeks: feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness and guilt; persistent sadness or anxiety; unexplained crying; withdrawal from activities and relationships that were pleasurable before; memory loss or confusion; changes in eating or sleeping habits; decreased energy; and thoughts of suicide. He added that Compass or Clearview may be an appropriate solution.
Larry Bryant, Director WCMC Compass and Clearview Program
Eric Yarbrough, RN Behavioral Health Community Outreach Coordinator
For more information, please call Compass for ages 18 to 64 at (501) 278-3370 or Clearview for ages 65 and older at (501) 278-3365. Both behavioral health units are located on White County Medical Center’s South Campus at 1200 Main Street in Searcy.
Rose Bud’s Josh Pratt works his triceps during the Ramblers’ offseason weight training. The Ramblers said they are on the lookout for more charity races.
Ramblers run for a cause Eight Rose Bud football players took part in the Light Up the Streets 5K BY HARRISON KEEGAN
T
Rose Bud senior Trey McCann kicks off during the Ramblers’ win against Perryville last season. McCann was one of eight Rose Bud football players to participate in the Light Up the Streets 5K.
14 ❘ well now ❘ MAY/JUNE 2013
his February, more than 630 people hit the roads of Searcy to race in the Light Up the Streets 5K to support the White County Children’s Safety Center Among the crowd were a few young men who might have looked a little inexperienced in the long-distance racing circuit. Eight Rose Bud football players gave up their Saturday night to participate in the charity 5K. Many of them were running the distance for the first time. “I was impressed honestly that a bunch of high school boys would care to drive that far and spend their Saturday night doing that for our cause,” said Robin
Connell, executive director of the White County Children’s Safety Center.
“
Anything that is for a good cause
“
Rose Bud Head Coach Steve Rose requires his team to log 48 quarter-mile sprints during their off-season training. They can pick up 12 of them doing charity races like the Light Up the Streets 5K. The White County Children’s Safety Center is a cause close to Rose’s heart since his wife, Elizabeth, used to be a family advocate and forensic interviewer with the organization. When Rose found out about the race, he told his team they could pick up a big chunk of their training by participating, and many of them jumped at the opportunity. Eight Rose Bud players — Dustin Swint, Sam McGrand, Josh Pratt, Trey McCann, Tristen Evans, Wedge Mertsch, Francisco Charqueno and Tristan Zimmerlee — got together and drove to Searcy to join in the race on Feb. 23. “They did all the leg work,” Rose said. “I just told them about it and a lot of them said they were interested in it. “High school boys on a Saturday night aren’t necessarily fired up about running a 5K, but it was for a good cause. “Anything that is for a good cause and we can tie it together with their conditioning program or their lifting program, that is always a plus. We always look for ways to do that.” Zimmerlee, a senior lineman, said he had never run in a 5K before, but he was able to finish it pretty easily. “Coach just threw out the idea, and it was a Saturday night so if you had nothing to do, you could go,” Zimmerlee said. “We just talked to some friends and got some rides up to Searcy and ran for charity, for the kids.” Zimmerlee said he dreads running around the track at Rose Bud High School, but something about being in the streets with glow sticks and 600 other supporters made it seem a lot more fun. “Running out here is terrible, but you have a purpose to run out there so it’s not too bad,” Zimmerlee said. “It was a good feeling running for the kids and raising money for them.” The White County Children’s Safety Center is a nonprofit organization that serves more than 250 children and families a year. The Center’s mission is to provide child-friendly forensic investigations of child sexual abuse and serious physical abuse or neglect. The Center’s goal is to reduce the level of trauma the system currently imposes on children and help increase the prosecutions of legitimate cases. McCann, Rose Bud’s right guard, said he isn’t much for distance running either, but he got hooked on running after the Light Up the Streets race. He said he can see how distance running could help the Ramblers on the field this fall. “It was pretty cool,” McCann said. “It also helps your endurance a little bit. It makes you want to keep running and pushing yourself forward.” McCann said there was something fun about running in a new place and seeing throngs of people in the downtown Searcy streets. “When you are running out on the track, it is just the same scenery and everything,” McCann said. “Once you got out there, you had to run a longer distance, but you didn’t have to look at the same stuff the whole time. You got a different view of everything.”
and we can tie it together with their conditioning program or their lifting program, that is always a plus. We always look for ways to do that.
– Steve Rose Rose Bud Head Coach Running the race also helped those eight players come together as a team. McCann said it was a bonding experience to carpool to Searcy and participate in a charity run on their Saturday night. “It was pretty cool knowing that there were some people back there who had your back if you ever needed it,” McCann said. “And there were people there to talk to. It was an experience that we all got to do together and not a lot of people get to say that they’ve done that.” Rose Bud is hoping all of its off-season training, including the Light the Streets 5K, helps them this fall when they take the field with high expectations that include the team’s first-ever playoff berth. But that Saturday in February was about a lot more than that. Zimmerlee and McCann each said they left Searcy feeling good about how they had spent their Saturday night. They said they would be on the lookout for more charity races before the season started.
And if it helped them get in shape, well, that’s just bonus.
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MAY/JUNE 2013 ❘ well now ❘ 15
well now l bulletin
Asthma month aims to help people breathe easier
A
Steve Lercher stands next to a sign at the beginning of his 15 miles of bike trails in McRae. For more information on the trails, visit www.myglobalbiking.com or call Lercher at 501-444-2839.
Bikers keep healthy during cycling month When it comes to staying in shape, many people turn to the pedals, and Searcy has a multitude of routes for which people can take advantage during cycling month in May. Searcy boasts a 4.1-mile bike and walk trail in the center of the city. it begins at Ellis Street and extends all the way to the Searcy Sports Complex, and Searcy Parks and Recreation Director Brian Smith said it is used by hundreds of people each month. “The trail is one of our major outdoor facilities,” he said. “We keep it mowed and litter free, and there are several bridges along the trail we also maintain.” For cyclists looking for a more rural area to bike, Steve Lercher of McRae has opened up 15 miles of bike trails at 552 Shiloh Road in McRae. Lercher’s trails have a number of natural sights, such as Cane Creek, the Tread Shed, the Bath Tub, Tanya’s Bridge and Steve’s Bridge. Dr. Ken Turley, chairman of the Harding University Exercise Science department, said cycling offers many health benefits that can reach past jogging or running.
“
Cycling is certainly an aerobic
stimulant, which helps lower blood pressure, but it’s also lower-impact
“
exercise compared to running, so, if a
person has arthritis or something like
that, cycling would not aggravate that condition as much as running might.
– Dr. Ken Turley, Harding University Excercise Science Dept. Chairman
For more information on Searcy’s bike trail, people may visit http://www.searcy.com/city/ parks-and-rec/recreational-areas. More information on Lercher’s trails may be found at www.myglobalbiking.com or by calling Lercher at 501-444-2839. People may also visit www.mapmyride.com to see custom trails uploaded by Searcy residents. 16 ❘ well now ❘ MAY/JUNE 2013
s April showers bring May flowers, May flowers bring seasonal allergies, which is why May has been tabbed as asthma and allergy awareness month. People who suffer from asthma and allergies often experience noticeable physical symptoms during May, and an awareness campaign is a way to educate friends, family, co-workers and members of the public about asthma and allergies. In the United States, approximately 25 million people have asthma of which almost 7 seven million are children. In 2010, almost 13 million people reported having asthma attacks. There is a higher incidence of asthma emergencies, hospitalizations and death in black people compared to white people. Puerto Ricans are also disproportionally affected. By educating the public about asthma and allergies, local healthcare professionals hope more people will take early action to deal with any symptoms. Asthma symptoms include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Symptoms of allergies can vary in severity. Mild allergy symptoms include congestion, skin rash, and itchy watery eyes. Moderate symptoms include difficulty in breathing, and itchiness. Severe asthma symptoms can begin with itching of the eyes and face, but soon progress to swelling, causing breathing difficulties, cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. Confusion and dizziness are further symptoms of asthma. The intent of the awareness event is to educate more people about asthma triggers which bring on symptoms of asthma, and how asthma can be controlled. Environmental triggers of asthma attacks include passive smoking, molds, cockroaches, pet hair, and dust mites. Combined with adequate medical treatment, these environment triggers can be controlled enabling people with asthma to live active and healthy lives. The AAFA organizes activities and invites people to use materials to raise awareness about asthma and allergies at home, school and work. One such resource is the Asthma Awareness Month Event Planning Kit. For more information, or to get involved in asthma awareness, visit www.aafa.org.
Local students to learn about nursing at WCMC High school students will have a chance this summer to test the waters of the nursing field. The Summer Nursing Activities Program (SNAP) is a yearly summer enrichment program designed for students interested in nursing as a profession. The three-day program allows hands-on training for certain activities, such as first aid, CPR, healthy lifestyle habit and basic nursing skills. “Students who participate in our Summer Nursing Activities Program are introduced to a variety of nursing skills,” said Dee DeLoach, White County Medical Center SNAP coordinator. “Being in the hospital environment gives students a unique opportunity to learn first-hand how nurses care for patients and their family members, as well as how nurses interact other guests and fellow associates.” The program aims to get teenagers prepared for what they could do in the nursing field, and the kids are introduced at a young age. “SNAP is designed for students entering the eighth and ninth grades,” DeLoach said.
“We find that many young people this age are already thinking about their future careers. This experience will help them gain a greater understand of nursing as a career path.” DeLoach said she’s proud to be a part a program that does so much to teach kids about career opportunities and healthy lifestyles. “We strive to reach out to community members of all ages,” she said. “As the largest healthcare facility in the area, it is important for us to do our part in educating our younger citizens about the many career paths available in healthcare in hopes that our hospital will always have excellent nurses who are from the area. “It means so much to me, personally, to be able to introduce the nursing career to students in this age group. I have been a nurse for 31 years, [and] I hope my own experience and love for nursing will inspire the students to make it a part of their future, too.”
Searcy High School student Olivia Morton practiced checking her pulse during the 2012 Summer Nursing Activities Program. The 2013 event will take place at the White County Medical Center again this summer.
The program will be held June 17-19 at the hospital. For more information about the program, people may call DeLoach at 501-3803382 or email her at ddeloach@wcmc.org.
Awareness week highlights Lou Gehrig’s Disease May is Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Awareness Month, and local healthcare professionals advise residents to take note.
T
he aim of ALS Awareness Month is to gather support for those affected by this condition and to encourage funding and research into a treatment or cure. ALS is a devastating progressive neurodegenerative disease which destroys the ability to walk, speak, eat and breathe. It was first recognized as a disease in 1869 by Jean-Martin Charcot, a French neurologist. However, ALS is sometimes referred as Lou Gehrig’s disease; named after Lou Gehrig, a famous New York Yankees’ first basemen, whose career was stopped in 1939 when he developed ALS at the age of 36. At that time, ALS was given widespread public attention due to the high profile of this baseball player. ALS affects the body by attacking the motor neurons of the brain and spinal cord. Motor neurons are cells which process and transmit signals which help control muscles. Destruction of motor neuron cells leads to symptoms related to loss of muscle control. Typical symptoms of ALS include
inability to walk, speak, eat and even breathe. As ALS is a progressive disease, more motor neurons are destroyed over time, worsening the symptoms. Difficulty breathing and swallowing are later symptoms. Paralysis can also develop. After the onset of this disease, fatality usually occurs within 2-5 years. ALS typically affects people over the age of 40, including those who previously enjoyed excellent health in the prime of their lives. While ALS affects a minority of the population (in the US about 30,000 people have this condition), ALS is indiscriminate in the types of people who will be affected. Famous people who had ALS include NBA player George Yardley, Sen. Jacob Javits and former Vice President Henry Wallace. Several organizations which represent people with neurodegenerative diseases back ALS Awareness Month to support those with this condition and to raise funds for research into
a cure. These include the Muscular Dystrophy Association and the ALS Association who host seminars and other activities throughout the United States, during May. To coincide with this awareness month, the ALS Association have in more recent years run a campaign, ‘ALS Across America’. Established in 2008, ‘ALS Across America’ aims to raise awareness about ALS by sharing with the media and public the experience people throughout the United States have with ALS. A person can get involved in ALS awareness month by donating money to help fight this disease, becoming inspired after reading and listening to stories about people with this condition, advocating for people with ALS, staying connected with ALS News and Updates, getting involved with various events to help raise awareness or participating in ‘Walk to Defeat ALS’. For more information about ALS Awareness Month, people may visit http://www.alsa.org/ MAY/JUNE 2013 ❘ well now ❘ 17
Poor posture can affect all parts of the body Posture refers to the position a person’s body is in whilst they are sitting or standing. Sedentary activities such as sitting, reading, playing video games, using a computer and more physical activities like gardening, bending or lifting objects, are often performed with poor posture. Poor posture can negatively impact a person’s health. Back problems are an obvious result of poor posture with back pain being the most common problem. Side effects from medicines used to control back pain can have an impact on a person’s physical and mental well being. Poor posture can affect health in other ways. For example, slouching can give rise to jaw pain and headaches. Poor posture places more strain on muscles and joints and can lead to arthritis. Poor posture can also affect breathing and impair the circulatory and digestive systems. A popular method of making a person aware of the importance of good posture is by using photography to capture images of peo-
“
When you look at children especially, there’s a term now called ‘text neck,’ which is when they are looking down while texting or playing video games, and when they’re in that position all the time the body grows to stay in the position its been placed in that can adversely affect a person’s overall health, a person’s nervous system and structure of the spine. Nerves go from the spine to every organ and tissue in the body, so poor posture can affect nearly all parts of the body. – Scott Smith, Chiropractor White County Chiropractic Clinnic
“
Correct Posture Month encourages people to think about how posture can affect their overall health.
ple while standing. Three images are normally taken (front, side and back) which are then analyzed to see if the body is in alignment. Poor posture can be shown when the head is forward whilst the back is flat, or whilst the head is forward with shoulders rounded and a sway back. In reality, it is difficult to achieve perfect posture all the time. However, there are healthcare professionals such as chiropractors who can assist, and there are simple exercises that can be done to help. To improve posture when standing, the head should be held up, shoulders back and stomach tucked in. When sitting, keep the legs bent 90 to 120 degrees perpendicular to the floor, buttocks touching the back of the chair, with weight evenly distributed over both hips. Feet should be flat on the floor. When sitting at a table or desk, have the arms and elbows rest on the surface taking the strain off the shoulders. Avoid sitting for long periods of time. Get up every 30 minutes. If sitting at a desk, keeping a bottle or water nearby can facilitate better posture. Hydrating regularly helps with concentration and regular trips to the toilet help prevent sitting at a desk for a long time. Attention should also be paid to sleeping positions. Sleeping on the stomach can cause back and neck strain, as can sleeping on your side with your knees bent up high near the chest. A position which maintains the curve of the back is encouraged. This can be achieved by sleeping on your side with knees slightly bent, or by lying on the back and placing a pillow
under knees. A lumbar support placed near the lower back can also help in comfort. “People should watch how they sleep,” Smith said. “A lot of people want to sleep on two pillows and that can straighten out the neck, or if they sleep on their stomach, it can straighten out the upper back, and those things can make a big difference in someone’s overall health.” Exercise such as yoga and Pilates can assist in balancing the muscles of the body. When the body’s muscles are balanced, less energy is spent fighting gravity. As less strain is put on the skeletal system the negative effects of bad posture can be avoided or at least reduced.
Advantages of good posture include: • Extra height — Up to 3 inches of natural body height can be lost with poor posture. • Fatigue prevention – Good posture means the body is using muscles more efficiently, meaning less energy is being spent keeping the body in position. • Prevention of strains, back aches and muscular pain. • Prevention of wear on the joints and less strain on the body’s ligaments. • Prevention of secondary complications such as arthritis and impairment of circulatory and digestive systems. • Improved appearance — People with good posture carry themselves in a more natural manner and generally look better than those whose posture is out of balance.
Arthritis Foundation aims to educate Americans Spearheaded by the Arthritis Foundation, Arthritis Awareness Month aims to make people more aware of arthritis and the issues involved.
A
rthritis Awareness Month is a time to motivate Americans to get up and moving, whilst raising funds for arthritis research, support and advocacy. There are many myths surrounding arthritis, including that it is just minor aches and pains associated with getting older. Arthritis is actually a complex family of musculoskeletal disorders consisting of more than 100 different diseases or conditions that can affect people of all ages, races and genders.
“
Arthritis typically causes pain, stiffness and swelling in the affected joint(s) that is usually worse with activity and better with rest. Some days may be better than others, but over time the degree and duration of symptoms will slowly worsen. The joints most commonly affected are the hands, fingers, knees and hips. – Thomas Day, M.D.
“
Orthopaedic Surgeon WCMC
Arthritis can take many forms, but three of the common diseases that make up arthritis include: Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile arthritis. “Diagnosis can be tentatively made based upon patient’s history, description of symptoms, and physical exam findings, but regular x-rays are the key to confirmation,” Day said. “In early stages of arthritis, x-rays may look normal and a more sensitive scan like MRI or CT may be needed.” Osteoarthritis if the most common form of arthritis. It is a progressive degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of joint cartilage associated with risk factors, such as obesity, history of joint injury and age. Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic disease characterized by the inflammation of the
membranes lining joints, which causes pain, stiffness, warmth, swelling and sometimes severe joint damage. Juvenile arthritis is an umbrella term used to describe the many autoimmune and inflammatory conditions that can develop in children ages 16 and younger. To combat the effects of any form of arthritis, physical activity and weight management are important and can help manage the pain and stiffness. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, there is strong evidence indicating that both endurance and resistance types of exercise provide considerable disease-specific benefits for people with osteoarthritis and rheumatic conditions. “Stay active,” Day said. “Rest and immobility actually can make arthritis symptoms worse; stretching and light exercise will help. Medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen (used according to dosing instructions) will relieve some discomfort. “Stop smoking, and if the joints affected are weight-bearing (hips, knees, feet), lose any extra weight. If symptoms begin to significantly interfere with daily life, see your primary care physician. A growing body of research indicates that exercise, weight management and the avoidance of joint injury can go a long way in helping to prevent osteoarthritis. For example, every one pound of weight loss results in four pounds of pressure taken off each knee.
For more information about the forms of Arthritis, management and treatments, or how to get involved in awareness or research efforts, people may visit www.arthritis.org
WHITE COUNTY RELAY FOR LIFE IS MAY 31ST White County Relay For Life—May 31st 6pm – 6 am at the Searcy Events Center. Relay For Life is the American Cancer Society’s signature fundraising event. Relay teams form to raise funds for ACS to go towards research, education, advocacy, and services. Whether teams fundraise all year or just join us for the night of Relay at the Events Center, every penny makes a difference and helps us take one step closer to finding a cure. Everyone in the community is encouraged to join us for a family fun night of music, food, and games as we walk to support those in this battle to make sure that cancer does not win. This year’s theme is SMASH CANCER & SAVE LIVES! It will be a night of laughter and tears but most of all hope. We will honor our survivors and remember those that are no longer with us as we walk all night as a representation of what a cancer patients battle is like. Cancer never sleeps and neither to do we! Also, this year’s Survivor Banquet will be hosted at Valley Baptist Church on May 2 @ 6pm. All survivors and one caregiver are invited. Please RSVP to Lisa @ 501-977-6128 or lbryant@ harding.edu so they will have a count of attendants. To join a team, make a donation, or find Relay or ACS information please go to www.relayforlife.org/whitear or join us on our Facebook page- Relay For Life of White County.
MAY/JUNE 2013 ❘ well now ❘ 19
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keeping our community healthy
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MAY/ J U N E
Calendar of Events
STRONG WOMEN
PRENATAL YOGA
Class designed for midlife and older women to help improve bone density, flexibility, strength and arthritis and reducing falls. Participants need ankle weights, dumbbells, towels, water bottles, closed-toed sneakers and comfortable shoes. Class is led by Katie Cullum, a certified Strong Women instructor who has taught classes for over five years. When: 9-10 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday and 4:45-5:30 p.m., Monday, Wednesday Cost: $12 per year Where: Old Carder Buick Building, corner of Hawkins and Hartsfeld, in Searcy More information: (501) 268-5394 or email kcullum@uaex.edu
Led by a Certified Yoga Instructor Jessica Lynch, this is a specially-designed yoga class for expectant mothers in any trimester. A doctor’s written permission is required to join the class. Mats are provided. Bring pillows and blankets. When: 6:30-7:30 p.m., Tuesday Cost: Free Where: Old Carder Buick Building, corner of Hawkins and Hartsfeld, in Searcy More information: (501) 380-1277 or email mpound@wcmc.org
TAI CHI Classes are for all ages to help improve balance, flexibility, strength and reduce stress and pain. Participants should dress comfortably and can be barefoot or in comfortable socks and sneakers. No equipment is required. Classes run 45-60 minutes. When: 11-12 a.m., Monday, Wednesday, Friday, June 10-July 13 Cost: $15 due prior to class Where: Old Carder Buick Building, corner of Hawkins and Hartsfeld, in Searcy More information: (501) 268-5394 or email kcullum@uaex.edu
REMIX WORKOUT
YOGA FOR HEALING Classes are for men and woman and offer a slower pace yoga convenient for beginners or those healing from a chronic disease. Instructor is Teresa McLeod. When: 5:30-6:30 p.m., Monday and Thursday Cost: $20 for 10 weeks Where: Old Carder Buick Building, corner of Hawkins and Hartsfeld, in Searcy More information: (501) 278-8570
GRIEF RECOVERY RETREATS Hosted by Searcy couple David and Debbie Matthews, the retreats are for adults who are experiencing grief of any kind. When: Held throughout the year Where: Tanglewood Resort Hotel and Conference Center in Pottsboro, Texas More information: sparkoflife.org or (501) 230-3008
VARI YOGA
GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP
Classes are for men and women and offer a variety of yoga poses and positions.This is an advanced class. Instructor is Sharon Middleton. When: 4:45-5:45 p.m., Tuesday, Thursday Cost: $20 for 10 weeks Where: Old Carder Buick Building, corner of Hawkins and Hartsfeld, in Searcy More information: (501) 278-8570
Hosted by Arkansas Hospice, the group is for anyone who is coping with a loss of a loved one. When: Fourth Thursday of the Month Cost: Free Where: 410 N. Apple Street More information: (501) 748-3422 or toll free at (800) 713-2348
SURVIVORS OF SUICIDE MASSAGE THERAPY
Classes are for men and women and incorporate high energy workouts using weights, ball and various other equipment. Instructor is Letha Tripp. When: 9-10 a.m., Saturday Cost: $20 for 10 weeks Where: Old Carder Buick Building, corner of Hawkins and Hartsfeld, in Searcy More information: (501) 278-8570
Good health is not something we can buy. However, it can be an extremely valuable savings account. — Anne Wilson Schaef 22 ❘ well now ❘ MAY/JUNE 2013
For anyone who would like to feel better through massage therapy. A variety of massages are offered. Massage Therapist is Shela McAnally. When: By appointment only Cost: $25 per 30 minutes for relaxation therapy; $35 for one hour of relaxation therapy; $55 for hot stones and other more therapeutic massages Where: Old Carder Buick Building, corner of Hawkins and Hartsfeld, in Searcy More information: (501) 743-0490
WATER EXERCISE Classes are for women to help with arthritis and joint or back pain. When: 6:30-7:30 a.m., Monday, Wednesday, Friday and 8:30-9:30 a.m., Monday-Friday Cost: $90 for four months beginning in May or $25 per month or $3 per class visit Where: Harding University More information: jdyingling@harding.edu
A support group for anyone who has lost friends or loved ones to suicide. When: The first Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. Cost: Free Where: South Campus of the White County Medical Center More information: www.robertelliottfdn. com or (501) 278-4357
BICYCLE RIDE Searcy’s bike trail and BJ Ranch Lercher 15 Trails in McRae are always open for riding. When: Searcy’s trail may be ridden during daylight hours, and BJ Ranch Lercher 15 Trails requires a membership Cost: Searcy’s trail is free, and access to the BJ Ranch Lercher 15 Trails is $70 for a yearly membership Where: Searcy’s trail goes from Ellis Street to the Searcy Sports Complex, and the BJ Ranch Lercher 15 Trails are in McRae For more information: www.searcy.com and www.myglobalbiking.com
well now l finance
Financial Focus What Do New Tax Laws Mean to You? B Y A M Y DA N I E L S A N D C I N DY DAV I S
As you know, the U.S. Congress has adopted some measures to help avoid the muchfeared “fiscal cliff.” At this point, important spending decisions have been put off, but new tax laws are in place — and, as an investor, you’ll want to know just how this legislation will affect you.
Let’s look at the impact of the tax laws on three different income levels: • Up to $200,000/$250,000 — If you earn less than $200,000 (if you’re single) or $250,000 (if you’re married and file jointly), your income tax bracket will not change, nor will the tax rates assessed on dividends you receive from stocks or long-term capital gains you receive from selling investments that have appreciated in value. However, a 3.8% Medicare tax will apply to the lesser of your net investment income or your modified adjusted gross income in excess of the $200,000 or $250,000 levels, respectively. • $250,000 — $400,000 — If your adjusted gross income is at or more than $250,000 (for single filers) or $300,000 (for married couples), your itemized deductions will begin to phase out, as will your personal exemption deductions, possibly resulting in higher effective tax rates. And the 3.8% Medicare tax will apply to part, or all, of your investment income. But your tax bracket stays the same, as do the tax rates on dividends and capital gains. • $400,000/$450,000 — If you earn at least $400,000 (if you’re single) or $450,000
(if you’re married), you will be subject to the phase-out of deductions described above. More importantly, however, your marginal tax rate will rise from 35% to 39.6%. Plus, taxes on qualified dividends and longterm capital gains will rise from 15% to 20% — or, actually, 23.8%, when the 3.8% Medicare tax is added in. Consequently, you may have some decisions to make; at a minimum, you’ll need to know how the new rates might — or might not — affect your investment choices. For example, if you rely on bonds to provide a source of income, be aware that your interest payments — taxed at your marginal tax rate — will now be taxed more heavily. As for capital gains, the slightly higher rates now give you even more incentive to be a “buyand-hold” investor, which is usually a good strategy for most people. And the increase in dividend taxes doesn’t detract from the key benefit of dividends — namely the ability to provide a potential source of rising income that can help keep you ahead of inflation. Keep in mind that dividends can be increased, decreased or eliminated at anytime without notice.
Overall, the changes in investmentrelated taxes are probably less substantial than many people had anticipated. And in any case, taxes are but a single component of investment decisions — and usually not the most important one. Rather than let taxes drive your investment choices, focus instead on whether a particular investment is appropriate for your individual situation, and if it fits your risk tolerance, and if it helps you diversify your portfolio. Diversification can help you reduce the effects of market volatility, though it can’t guarantee profits or protect against loss. Still, the new tax legislation is significant, so you should consult with your financial advisor and tax professional to determine what moves, if any, you may want to make. It’s always wise to be up-to-date on what’s happening in Washington — especially when lawmakers’ decisions can affect your ability to achieve your important financial goals.
Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation
Amy Daniels and Cindy Davis are financial advisors for MAY/JUNE 2013 x well now x 23
Running to reduce pain Women Run Arkansas members share success stories
Women Run Arkansas
Who:
KL
LK
B Y M AT T B U R K S
Sheila Evans of Bald Knob
What: Reduced joint pain and joined first 5K through program
Where: Group meets 5:30 p.m. on
Tuesdays and Thursdays at Harding University Track
Members of the free program, Women Can Run Arkansas at Searcy, regularly meet at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday at the Harding University track to promote healthy living. From left, Jennifer Pannell, Nora Osborne, and Fran LaForce.
24 x well now x MAY/JUNE 2013
I
t’s an uncommon combination, but Bald Knob resident Sheila Evans swears it works — though it is not an easy adjustment in the beginning. When Evans first noticed regular joint pain throughout her body, she somehow equated that running could be a cure. The first problem, she was not a runner. But she was introduced to a group of women that meet twice a week and run laps around the Harding University track or the campus. “I enjoy it and I feel much better and happier now,” Evans said of the Women Run Arkansas at Searcy group. “I love getting out in the fresh air and getting some exercise.” Two years ago, Evans joined the group and slowly advanced her distance and her stamina. As for the nagging joint pain, which nudged her into making a life change, it began fading away step by step. “I was trying to overcome that [joint pain] and it gradually got better,” Evans said. “I could tell a lot of difference in just two or three days of exercise. In a sense, I felt much better almost immediately. In fact, if I stop exercising, I can tell that the joint pain gradually comes back. So I have to stay active and stay moving.” Not only did she run for fun with friends around a track, she signed up for the 2nd annual Chili’s 5Queso for St. Jude in September 2012. Previously perceived as a daunting task, Evans tightened her shoe laces and gave her best shot at completing the 3.1 miles. “I actually won in the 50 to 60 year old age group,” she said with a wide smile. “I don’t know how many people were in that age group, but I won it somehow. I don’t know how, but I did it.” Evans is one of many women who share success stories in the Women Run Arkansas group. Her friend, Michelle Davis, also joined two years ago as a way to spend more time with her husband. “My husband runs and I wanted to do something that we could do together, so I got into the program,” she said. Davis was also not a runner before entering the program, but with determination and the push from her new friends, the legs turned from walking to sprinting. The prog-
ress was slow, she admits, but the end result caught her by surprise. “I just came out and ran with everyone, and even ran some at home,” Davis said. “I’ve always been a walker, but I never thought I’d be able to run. It took about six months, but I finally started running laps without stopping to walk.” With her newfound energy, Davis began agreeing to do things she never dreamed possible. She signed up for her first 5K a year ago just to see how far along she had advanced in her stamina. “I ran the whole way without stopping, which was a surprise to me,” Davis said. “It felt really good because I couldn’t believe I had done it. It was just three miles, but still, for me, that was a big accomplishment.” From that point on, she started signing up for various 5K events. Davis even participated in a few 10K runs. “It feels good, but I don’t plan to do anything other than a 10K,” she said with a laugh. “I’m not a half-marathon girl or anything.” Both Davis and Evans, no matter how many 5K or 10K events, or even if they ever do decide to at least attempt a half-marathon, remain passionate about their time spent with the members of the Arkansas Women Run group in Searcy. They said there is nothing like the time spent with each other on Harding’s campus. “I like the socializing,” Davis said. “I like that the ladies all come out here and that we have fun together while we get exercise. It doesn’t really feel like as much exercise when we meet.” They group has even encouraged new members like Michelle Kimberling to keep churning those legs. Joining her for the past three weeks, Kimberling’s 11-year-old daughter Dana Schubarth said it’s always a fun time. “I need to get in shape and I just want to be able to do it with a group of women to keep me motivated,” Kimberling said. “I also recently moved to the area and I don’t know many people around town, so this makes it easier to get to meet people.” By the end of the 10-week program, the MAY/JUNE 2013 x well now x 25
MMMMM....TOASTY TOA
LOCATED IN INSIDE NSIDE D DOUBLEBEE OUBLE ’S Try a variety of our Healthy Options! All under 500 Calories! Sheila Evans of Bald Knob, Rachel Thorne of Florida and Margaret Whitley of Searcy tell each other about the day before taking part in a few miles of running at the Harding University track for the Women Run Arkansas at Searcy program. The group meets at 5:30 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday at the track during the 10-week program.
newest member hopes to reach her goal. But if she doesn’t reach it by then, Kimberling plans to keep on giving her best effort, just like she does today. “To run in a 5K is my goal,” she said. “But right now, I’m just going at my own pace and trying not to kill myself. The biggest advice I was told was to just keep going. That, and wear the right shoes and don’t wear clothes that are binding.” Kimberling said the members are also reminded to stretch before walking or running and to drink plenty of water.” Schubarth, as moral support, encourages her mom by sharing laughs, convincing her to put arms into a victory pose above their heads, and giving patience. Kimberling said each day that passes there is a noticeable difference. “This is our third week in the program and that first day was so hard that I thought I was going to die,” she said. “It was so hard, but it was worth it. It’s much easier now and I have a lot more energy. I started out walking a quarter of a mile and now I’m up to three miles.” These success stories is what Jennifer Pannell, leader of the Women Run Arkansas in Searcy, said motivates her to keep promoting the program. She said it can inspire other women to create their own success stories. To participate, there is no cost. Pannell said women interested in the program can just show up at the Harding University track at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
For more information about the Women Run Arkansas program, people can visit www.womenrunarkansas.net or Searcy Women Run Arkansas on www.facebook.com.
3401 Race St. • Searcy • 268-5533 Open Mon-Sat 10am-10pm, Sun 10am-9pm 2620 W. Beebe Capps Expy. • 305-4440 Open Mon-Sun 10am - 10pm 26 x well now x MAY/JUNE 2013
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MAY/JUNE 2013 x well now x 27
Local artist Angela Turney poses outside her home north of Searcy. The home doubles as her art studio, and Turney said she finds inspiration from the landscape.
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Artist Angela Turney works on a painting of an angel titled, “Broken Wing.” Pictured to the left is one of her commissioned military newsprint paintings
Painting for therapy
Woman says painting helps her get through life’s challenges BY JACOB BROWER
W
While art may not be a traditional path to wealth, one local artist isn’t letting that get between her and her dream. Angela Turney of Searcy says that money is secondary as to why she chose to enter the field of art. It’s the therapeutic value it provides that serves as her motivation. “I stopped painting for a while when I went through some changes in my life, and then I realized it was therapy,” she said. “I’ll whip up a painting and I feel better.” Turney was introduced to drawing by her father when she was 6 or 7, and began painting as a student at North Pulaski High School. Though she never painted before, her raw talent made an impact on her art teacher, Diane Jones of Maumelle. “I see so much potential in her,” said Jones, who is now retired. “She has so much more talent than I do, and that’s
why I recognized her.” It was Jones who bought the first painting Turney sold for $35. “She has been a great inspiration for me and she guided me through some hard times,” Turney said. “She said if I kept it up, one day I would make it big. That’s my dream.” Even though art has always played a big role in her life, it was not until later that Turney decided to make it a full-time profession. “I became a mother and that took over my life,” she said. “When I went through an emotional change, I would always crave painting. That’s my time away. Around 2005, I really started saying I want to do this until I can’t do it anymore.” Turney’s studio is located at her farm home north of Searcy. She said likes to paint in the wee hours of the morn-
ing — often four or five hours at a time — because she said the silence of the hour helps her focus. “I am never able to sleep until I paint,” she said. “I’ll stay awake and paint in the middle of the night. I’ll paint two or three paintings until I feel better.” The wooded scenery around her house also serves as an inspiration. “I feel very free out here,” Turney said. “I can walk out into the woods and be inspired. But the city can be freeing too, because of the colors and lights.” Turney has clients who ask her to paint specific pictures. Other than that, she said she just paints whatever image happens to enter her head. She has painted many religious works, has painted patriotic art on newspapers containing stories about war, and also likes to paint animals and people. She said one of her goals is to serve
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Artist Angela Turney talks about her painting of Mary and baby Jesus. She originally painted the work when she was 18 years old and recently repainted it to reflect her current style. The work was done with spray paints and acrylics.
Displayed in Angela Turney’s home is a painting of Pope John Paul II. Turney completed the painting one week before the pope died. Turney said the painting is “one of my personal favorites that I hold on to.”
as an inspiration to others, especially her children. She is married to Bruce Turney and has three daughters, Emily Smith, 13; Audrey Mae-Smith, 9; and Autumn Turney, 4. “One night, my 13-year-old was painting with me,” Turney said. “She was on the floor painting and she said, ‘One day, when I’m all grown up and you’re famous, I can tell people I painted with you.’ “It’s not the money to me. Whenever I sell a painting, I want to see people getting a reaction. Watching grown men cry, that’s awesome.” Turney has many pets, most of which are shelter animals, and she has a program that she hopes will help facilities that house shelter animals. She paints pictures of people’s pets and donates half the sales proceeds to a shelter of the person’s choice. She offered the following advice to people who feel that art can be good therapy: Just do it. “I’d suggest it to anyone because it’s very freeing,” she said. “Buy cheap paint and canvas from Walmart. Get cardboard, newspapers, pizza boxes, anything. Just free yourself and paint.” Turney’s work is featured at Stefano’s Fine Art Gallery in Little Rock and Ellen Hobgood’s in Heber Springs. She also maintains an online presence at https://www.facebook.com/ARTURNEY and http://angsmithart. wix.com/shades-of-art. 30 x well now x MAY/JUNE 2013
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Trailblazing treatment for lung cancer
BY ERICA GOODWIN
W
edding anniversaries are often celebrated with dinner and gifts, but for Chuck and Twilla Ann Snyder, of Quitman, their 46th wedding anniversary – without the usual fare – in November 2012 is one they will long remember. “I had no idea I had cancer,” Chuck Snyder stated. “For years, I’ve had trouble with my neck and headaches; epidural steroid shots only made it worse. When I saw Dr. Schlesinger, she recommended a CT scan and myelogram to look at my neck.” As Neurologist Kelli Schlesinger, M.D., read the results of his scans, she noticed a suspicious spot in the top section of his right lung. Within a two-week time period, Snyder had the scans, visited his primary care physician Dr. John Holston, was referred to Medical Oncologist Ryan Koch, D.O., and underwent a PET scan at White County Oncology and needle biopsy at White County Medical Center. “Dr. Holston’s nurse, Jennifer, called me on November 26 to confirm that I did, in fact, have lung cancer,” he said. “It happened to be our anniversary, and Jennifer apologized for having to be the bearer of the
news. Jennifer has always been so good to us, and Twilla Ann and I just reassured her that it I was going to be fine.” “When I found out about the cancer, I said, ‘Lord, this is too much for me; I trust you to take care of me,’ and I didn’t think about it from then on,” Snyder said. “It was a God thing that they found the cancer to begin with,” Twilla Ann added. “God led the doctors and nurses to find the cancer, and we had faith that He was going to take care of Chuck.”
Medical Marvel
At Dr. Koch’s recommendation, Snyder saw Cardiothoracic Surgeon Miguel Aguinaga, M.D., to discuss surgery. With his wife by his side, Snyder met with Dr. Aguinaga about an innovative procedure to remove the cancerous tissues in Snyder’s lung with less scaring and pain than traditional surgery. Snyder needed a lobectomy, which is the standard operation used to remove lung cancer. On December 27, Dr. Aguinaga became the first surgeon in Arkansas to perform a lobectomy with the use of the robotic da Vinci® Surgical System on Snyder at WCMC. “There are many advantages to using the da Vinci for thoracic surgeries,” Dr. Aguinaga stated. “The da Vinci lobectomy involves four tiny incisions, approximately one to two centimeters long, in the chest. The arms and tools of the robot move at the surface level; therefore, no pressure is placed on the chest wall. Also, the primary part of the surgery in removing the lobe of the lung that contains the cancerous cells is done using the wrists of the da Vinci arms, so it does not irritate the ribs.” “For Mr. Snyder and other patients, that translates into less pain following surgery, a quicker recovery and faster return to his normal daily activities,” he added. “He did wonderfully and began walking on his treadmill within a few weeks of having his procedure.” Chuck and Twilla Ann Snyder, of Quitman, relied on their faith and modern medicine to beat cancer after Chuck was diagnosed with lung cancer in November 2012.
“
I am grateful to White County Medical Center for adding this important tool to our surgical capabilities. Lung cancer has a high chance for being cured when removed surgically in its early stages, and the da Vinci represents a tremendous breakthrough in surgery. – Miguel Aguinaga M.D.,
Cardiothoracic Surgeon
“
Cardiothoracic Surgeon Miguel Aguinaga, M.D., was the first surgeon in Arkansas to perform a lobectomy with the use of the robotic da Vinci® Surgical System at White County Medical Center.
Dr. Aguinaga is unique among thoracic surgeons in Arkansas as he was the first surgeon to adopt and offer the advanced minimally-invasive approach of robotic-assisted lung surgery to his patients. Currently, Dr. Aguinaga is the only thoracic surgeon in Arkansas performing lung lobectomies with the daVinci surgical system. “I am grateful to White County Medical Center for adding this important tool to our surgical capabilities,” Dr. Aguinaga stated. “Lung cancer has a high chance for being cured when removed surgically in its early stages, and the da Vinci represents a tremendous breakthrough in surgery.” “More than a year ago, surgeons began using the da Vinci at WCMC for hysterectomies and had great success; patients had positive experiences due to less post-operative pain and quicker recovery time,” he added. “Around the same time, we began using the da Vinci for less complex thoracic procedures. I wanted to take some time to evaluate the techniques the da Vinci offered to ensure it would be beneficial for patients needing more advanced thoracic surgery.” “It is exciting to be able to offer these advanced procedures to our thoracic patients,” Dr. Aguinaga said. “With thoracic surgeries, like Mr. Snyder’s procedure, I am always mindful of the delicate tissues and organs surrounding the portion of the lung being removed. The da Vinci’s MAY/JUNE 2013 x well now x 33
incredible precision, optical vision and finesse offers significant advantages over traditional thoracic surgical techniques, which make for an overall better experience for our patients.”
Faith and Follow-up “After about four days following the surgery, I started feeling pretty good,” Snyder said. “For such a significant surgery, I’d say I’m doing really well. I am blessed; I can’t put it any other way. I couldn’t have asked for anyone better than Dr. Aguinaga. He is a compassionate Christian man, and he has been really easy to talk to and thoughtful to explain things. If I were faced with the choice again, I’d do the same thing all over again.” Snyder admitted that he had experienced moments of sadness, but his faith pulled him through. “In Job, the Bible says ‘man…is of few days but full of troubles,’ but God is able to overcome those troubles,” he said. “It is important to hold onto your faith during those times. When trouble comes your way, don’t let it overwhelm you. Keep going!” With surgery behind him and a full life ahead, Snyder said he is thankful to be able to work in his auto mechanic’s shop at his own pace and have understanding customers who are willing to wait on him. “But the one thing I enjoy most,” he said, as he reached for his wife’s hand, “is being with her.” Surgeons at White County Medical Center use the da Vinci® Robotic Surgical System for a variety of minimally-invasive robotic surgical procedures including general, gynecological and thoracic surgeries. In addition to using the robotic da Vinci® Surgical System for thoracic procedures, the da Vinci is also being used to perform hysterectomies by OB/GYN physicians Bruce Thompson, M.D.; Bill Williams, M.D.; Kris Citty, M.D.; and Kyle Citty, M.D.; as well as general surgeries, including the SingleSiteTM gallbladder removal surgery by General Surgeon William Gibbs, M.D.
34 x well now x MAY/JUNE 2013
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Searcy’s Top Docs On Making Time For Yourself Gregory Ricca, M.D., Neurosurgeon “Rest is as important for our minds as it is for our body; even the heart rests between beats. Rest allows us to rejuvenate and return with a stronger mind and heart. Life is stressful, and stress is a double-edged sword. Some stress is good because it motivates us; however, too much stress wears us down emotionally and physically. There are many physical manifestations of stress that can cause us significant harm. Finding time for myself is difficult; however, here are ways I approach life: 1) I am rejuvenated by finding enjoyment in my work and through connections with my patients and the people I work with, and I actively look for the things that are rewarding and fun in my career; 2) when I schedule family time, I protect that time, so I’m able to connect with those who are closest to me; and 3) when possible, I try to take time for myself by engaging in hobbies, which takes my mind away from stress and allows me to rebuild my strength.”
Katherine Durham, M.D., Cardiologist
“It is important to take time for ourselves so we don’t have a feeling of being ‘used up.’ I get pulled in many different directions between responsibilities as a wife and mother at home and as a physician at work. If I’m not careful, I can get to the point of frustration. Once we reach that point, we often tend to take our feelings of frustration out on those around us, and that’s not fair to them. At the end of the day, making time for ourselves is truly important for our own sanity and inner calm, and it’s important to maintaining healthy and happy relationships in our close circles of people. Author Francis Chan wrote that ‘You should not be afraid that you won’t succeed; instead, you should be afraid you will succeed at the things that don’t matter.’ I remind myself of this because if we don’t take time for ourselves, we will look up and life will have passed by – and, we may have made all the people around us miserable and feel miserable ourselves! To ensure that I have time to myself to rejuvenate, I get up at 5:30 a.m. While our home is quiet – when my husband, our daughter and even the dog is still sleeping – I enjoy peaceful time alone to pray, have breakfast, read the news and put on makeup to prepare for the day ahead. Also, I walk on the treadmill three or four times a week for 30 minutes; the exercise is good, and it also helps reduce stress. It is so easy to get caught up in doing so much for others that we neglect ourselves. Also, I get a manicure or pedicure on a regular basis so I will have to stop and do something for myself and sit still for awhile. I find days that don’t run too long, or end early, to do these things so that it doesn’t take away from family time. When I’m home, I soak in the time I spend playing with our 15-month-old daughter. Then, we have dinner together, talk about our day, laugh about funny things that happened and listen to uplifting Christian music. The feeling of connectedness with my family helps lessen the stress of other things pulling on me. After we put our daughter to bed at 8 p.m., sometimes I go to sleep, too, and I don’t feel guilty that I should stay up and do other things! Getting a good night’s sleep helps me recharge my batteries and prepares me to start the day again. On other nights, I stay up and watch a movie with my husband or read a book or magazine after our daughter goes to bed. It took me awhile to learn to do this but it has helped me tremendously. One way I have time to do this in the evening is because my husband and I clean the kitchen together, bathe the baby together, pick up the house together and so on. It goes much faster and means I have time for myself or time for us later on.”
Thomas Day, M.D., Orthopaedic Surgeon “It has been clearly shown that the ability to give yourself an occasional break from the stresses of everyday life allows you to be more productive and happy, both at home and in the workplace. Find something that you enjoy and make time at least a few days a week to “get away.” I enjoy reading, so an easy escape for me is to sit down with a good book in the evening. I also enjoy exercise, primarily running, and working in the yard. When time permits, doing either of these activities allows me to take a break from stress without leaving town. The key is identifying that one thing that you want to do and make time to do it. You are in control of your health and well-being. By giving yourself the gift of time to take mental health breaks, you will be a better spouse, parent and employee.”
Michael Justus, M.D., Family Practice
“Each of us is presented with endless opportunities to serve family, friends, neighbors, schools, churches, community and government. Our hesitation to ignore responsibilities frequently leaves us overcommitted. The decision to decline an invitation to be a part of an activity may be perceived as lack of interest or support for the event or its planner. In reality, it is an effort to be still, take a deep breath and renew energy for the next day’s demands. No one can pour from an empty pitcher.”
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Bald Knob Senior Center members synchronize their squats and arm extensions during a group exercise class. Center Director Pam Kirksey said exercise helps the mental health as well as physical health of seniors.
Don’t call it exercise! Exercise benefits Who: Exercise for seniors yields physical and mental benefits What: Simple exercise programs can significantly improve mobility Where: Local senior activity centers 36 x well now x MAY/JUNE 2013
Light physical activity enhances lives of seniors B Y M AT T B U R K S
Far Left: Members of the Bald Knob Senior Center slowly get their hearts pumping from exercise bicycles before taking part in group exercise program. Marie Simmons, left, since starting the exercise program has stopped using a walker. From left, Simmons, Barbara Freihage, and Jeany Smith. Left: Betty Wallace braces her left arm as extra support for dumbbell lifts during an exercise program at the Bald Knob Senior Center. Other exercise activities includes stretching, light dancing, body twisting, push ups against a wall and use of exercise machines such as stationary bicycles.
said. “This little lady has been through so much and we nicknamed her a tough old bird, which keeps her laughing. She’s much nicer now and always in a more positive mood. Now, she gets involved in everything.” Marcia Pressler, director of the White County Aging Program, said seniors often become accustomed to becoming reclusive and depressed, especially after the loss of a spouse. They may even stop eating and communicating with family and friends. “I’ve seen a lot of seniors when they first come to the center kind of stay to themselves,” Pressler said. “But once they start getting involved in some kind of physical
she said. “They also have dance nights, fish Fridays, trips to places which also promotes walking, and just a whole lot of fun activities. “But if a senior takes part in the exercise class, they’ll notice how much easier it is to take part in things like the dances and that leads to much more fun for them.” Mary Lou Huff, 83, an exercise teacher at the Lightle Center, echoed the same sentiments. She said even just a few minutes of exercise can change the day for anyone, but it is especially noticeable in seniors. “Even just the smallest exercise can make a huge difference,” Huff said while showing a routine of clenching and unclenching fingers back and forth. “As you age, your joints get stiff and hurt, and you typically gain weight. Even just the smallest We do workouts involving everything from the head to the feet and everyexercise can make a huge thing in between. That really helps difference. As you age, your with a senior’s mobility.” “The exercise gets their muscles joints get stiff and hurt, and moving and keeps them from going you typically gain weight. stiff,” Hamby added. “Keeping their We do workouts involving fingers moving helps with arthritis and the exercise movement keeps their everything from the head to heart functioning.” the feet and everything in Some of the exercise routines includes stretching, such as toe touchbetween. That really helps ing, to crossing arms back and forth, with a senior’s mobility. to light squats while using the backs of chairs for support, to even push– Mary Lou Huff ing light weights into the air from Exercise Instuctor , Lightle Center the comfort of a seat. Hamby said they also use props, such as poles and activity, you can see a big change. The stretch bands. next thing you notice is they start getting “I also make sure to keep them laughing, involved in a lot of other activities and which helps them exercise more,” she said. become a lot more social.” “I also tell them all the time, ‘If I can do it, She said exercise routines extends so can you.’” beyond walking, stretching and using small “A lot of the importance is really just weights. Though she said those aspects are about repetition, which is why we encourimportant for the health of seniors, Pressler age light exercise repeated over and over also encourages them to participate in again,” Huff added. “I also keep them dances and field trips. laughing and remind them that the center is “Every senior center has some type of good for their mind, heart and soul.” exercise program, even if it involves just Margrett Wright, 86, of Searcy, said walking around the center or parking lot,” even though she recently had knee surgery,
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R
ose Hamby sees it every day — smiles upon the faces of the elderly as they share laughs among their friends. But it takes a little extra work, a little dedication and a positive attitude to get them to this point, the 72-year-old Chicago transplant said about the members of the Lightle House in Searcy. All it takes is a little exercise. “A lot of these seniors live at home alone and if they don’t get out, they’ll get depressed,” Hamby said. “When we exercise, it motivates [seniors] and keeps them from feeling sorry for themselves. Instead of just sitting around doing nothing at home, they come here and everything lights up for them.” Pam Kirksey, director of the Bald Knob Senior Center, said she has witnessed dramatic changes in the seniors who attend. She said when member Marie Simmons first entered the building, she did so with the assistance of a walker. “She also has dialysis treatments regularly, but she still ended up getting involved in some exercise programs here,” Kirksey said. “Before long, she stopped using her walker and she moves around with very little problems. She doesn’t even bring a walker inside anymore.” She said there was also a noticeable change in Simmons’ personality. “She’s dressing much nicer and began wearing makeup and jewelry,” Kirksey
MAY/JUNE 2013 x well now x 37
it was recommended that she continue staying active in some form. Nearly every Monday and Thursday, she participates in an exercise class designed for seniors at the Lightle Center. “It helps ease the pain with my bone and joint movements,” she said. “I know it may be hard for some [seniors] to get out of be and come here or to any senior center, but it is worth the effort. I know it makes me feel better and it’s not hard to do.” Kirksey said seniors who exercise routinely will gain a plethora of benefits. She said anyone, no matter the ailments, can do some type of exercise. “I’ve even seen people with respiratory problems participate in an exercise program,” Kirksey said. “There are a lot of stroke victims who said their doctors recommended they continue exercising during and after their rehabilitation sessions. It’s a proven fact that if you don’t use your muscles, you’ll lose strength, meaning it will just kind of turn to mush.” She said regular exercise for seniors not only lifts them out of depression, it helps with them lessen the change of having injuries. Even a small injury to an elderly person has a risk of turning into a serious health issue. “Falling is a huge problem for seniors,” Kirksey said. “If an elderly person is not active, they can lose their balance and have a fall. We even have a lady that had hip replacement from a fall, but since exercising, she’s moving around much better.” Seniors with mobility problems don’t have to stand up or even walk around to partake in an exercise program. Kirksey said they can exercise while sitting in a chair, or in the most extreme, while laying in bed. “Exercise helps with longevity of the seniors, as well as stamina and mobility,” Pressler said. “There are a lot of mental health reasons for seniors to exercise, but mainly it is because it will make them feel better, eat better and it will make them much more social. They’ll mentally be more positive or more apt to participate in more things.”
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Below: Margrett Wright, 86, of Searcy curls a couple of light dumbbells during an exercise class at The Lightle House. Wright said the exercise is not that tough, even after having recent knee surgery.
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