Thrive Feb Issue

S! E I R E S W E N

Eyes Are an Open Window to Your Heart Health

What Your WALLET Says About Your Finances Is Your Job Breaking Your Heart?

Think About Your

Home’s Resale Value Before You Buy

FEBRUARY 2009

February 2009

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

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1

Sometimes, the grass really is greener on the other side of the fence.

Maybe you’ve been with your bank for years. But, you can’t help but wonder . . . what’s it like over there? Is there a bank that’s on my side when I’m looking to expand my business, buy a new home, or when I simply want friendly, personal and convenient service?

Definitely. At Cameron State Bank, we offer fresh opportunities, perfectly manicured finanical plans, and a solid foundation for your future growth. So, come on over and see for yourself.

Welcome to the Brighter Side of banking.

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Personal Banking At Its Best!

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2009

Eyes are an

Open Window to Cardiovascular Health flow to the retina.“If we see areas of bleeding, swelling or blockages in the eye, this can be an accurate reflection of changes occurring throughout the entire body,” says Dr. Yokubaitis.

by Kristy Armand

D

uring February, which is American Heart Month, you’ll be hearing a great deal of information in the media about protecting your heart and looking for signs of cardiovascular disease like high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. What may not be mentioned is that a trip to the eye doctor can also play an important role in identifying symptoms of these diseases, even before they show up elsewhere in the body, allowing for earlier treatment in some cases.

“Conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, atherosclerosis and diabetes are well-known contributing factors for heart disease,” says ophthalmologist Jon Yokubaitis, MD, with The Eye Clinic. “What many people do not realize is that these conditions can also affect vision due to changes in the retina or optic nerve, often before manifesting elsewhere in the body. The retina can offer clues into February 2009

these diseases, allowing us to detect and refer patients for appropriate medical testing and treatment if needed.”

Dr. Yokubaitis explains that during a fully dilated eye exam, an ophthalmologist performs a careful examination of the retina, and is able to view small changes in the blood vessels in the back of the eye. “In fact, the eye is the only area on the body where doctors can directly visualize blood vessels in the human body without an incision, providing us with a clear, unobstructed view of blood flow and any problems that might be present.”

Numerous research studies have found that certain changes in the retina can be predictors for cardiovascular disease, stroke and high blood pressure. Recent advancements such as digital retinal imaging allow eye doctors to more easily detect and monitor blood

This is exactly what happened to Jaie LaFleur last month. When she went with her husband to his appointment at The Eye Clinic, she mentioned that he was doing a much better job of reading the eye chart than she was from the visitor’s chair. She said a crescentshaped blank spot was keeping her from seeing all of the letters.

Dr. Yokubaitis’s staff recognized her description as a possible symptom of a serious problem, and alerted him. He examined her eyes, performed some diagnostic tests and identified a branch retinal artery occlusion (blockage). “This type of blockage can be quite serious. With some types of vascular occlusions in the eye, there is a 15 percent chance of death in the following year from cardiovascular disease if the problem is not diagnosed and treated.”

LaFleur was sent directly to see her cardiologist. “He immediately changed my blood pressure medication and started me on medication for high cholesterol and aspirin therapy,” says LaFleur.

“My health is now under control.

I’m just so grateful that I went with my husband to his appointment, mentioned my problem, and Dr. Yokubaitis and his staff realized what it might mean. It was a

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

definite wake-up call.”

Dr. Yokubaitis says there are important lessons to be learned from LaFleur’s experience. “You should never ignore any changes to your vision. If you are seeing flashes, blank spots or dark areas in your field of vision, you should see an eye doctor right away.”

He says it’s also important to realize that risk factors for heart disease are also harmful to the eyes. Smoking, obesity and high cholesterol levels put both your heart health and your sight at risk. Exercising, maintaining a proper weight and eating a heart healthy diet will help improve both heart and eye health.

“And finally, you should see an eye doctor for a comprehensive, dilated exam on a regular basis,” stresses Dr. Yokubaitis.“Many conditions do not cause noticeable symptoms until vision has been permanently damaged. During an eye exam, we are often able to detect the problem before symptoms appear, giving us a better chance to protect and preserve vision, not to mention what we might be able to tell you about any possible problems with your overall health.” He adds a note of caution, saying a normal eye exam does not necessarily give you a clean bill of health. “A normal eye exam does not mean that you do not have cardiovascularrelated diseases, and you should have routine health exams and recommended screenings with your regular doctor.”

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Thrive is designed for people focused on living a happy, healthy life, one that is balanced, full of energy and contentment. Thrive readers want to make the most of every day and be successful in all areas of their lives – family, health, home and career.

Don’t just live, thrive!

Editors and Publishers Kristy Armand

Christine Fisher Creative Director

Barbara VanGossen

Layout

Tony Lee

Advertising Sales

Danielle Granger Ashley Gatte 337.312.0972

Submissions

edit@thriveswla.com or fax to 337.312.0976

Q: A friend of mine is hosting a bridal shower in her home for a mutual friend. She showed me the serving pieces she’s planning to use. I have a set of nicer pieces and would be honored if she chose to use them, but I’m not sure if I would offend her by offering. Should I, or would it be better if I kept quiet?

Submitted articles and photos are welcome. Thrive assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials and does not guarantee any submissions.

It’s time for your business to Thrive!

Thanks to our full color pages, high quality printing and fun, informative format, Thrive is the perfect place to showcase your business through advertising. I’d love to spend a few minutes with you to put together an advertising plan that works for your business.

by Rose Klein

A: Your intentions are good; however, if you think she might be offended, why not tell her that if she needs any additional serving pieces, you would be honored for her to use some of yours. Perhaps she’d like to borrow yours, but is unsure if you would be willing to loan them.

Q: A personal friend, who is also a business associate, gave me two holiday gifts: one from her personally and one from “the business.” The business, however, has three principals, so do I write one note to my friend and thank her for both gifts or do I write two notes: one to her personally and one to her professionally so she can share it with the other two partners?

A: One note should be sent to your friend at her home for the personal gift and another note should be sent to the business to the attention of all three principals.

Questions for Best Impressions can be submitted to thrive@ehealthyimage.com.

Ashley Gatte

Thrive Welcomes New Member of the Sales Team

Danielle Granger, Sales Manager 312-0972 danielle@thriveswla.com

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Thrive magazine announces the addition of Ashley Gatte to the sales team. Gatte is originally from Sulphur and graduated from McNeese State University with a degree in Marketing and minor in Management. As sales representative, she will call on local and regional businesses and organizations. Thrive is a monthly lifestyle magazine, focused on providing news and information about living a full, balanced and healthy life. It is distributed at no charge in businesses and rack locations throughout Southwest Louisiana.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2009

In Pursuit of the

Perfect Pout A

s we age, our lips lose collagen and fat just like the rest of our skin, and environmental factors such as sun exposure, repeated sipping, pursing and smoking add to the problem.

Thin lips and creases around the lips are among the most common complaints about this very prominent area of the face. “Many women invest a great deal of time and money in skin care, but neglect their lips,” says Leann Widcamp, medical aesthetician with the Aesthetic Center of Southwest Louisiana. “Lines, spots and wrinkles around the eyes and other areas of the face seem to get the most attention when it comes to preventive skin care, but stop to think about your lips – they are front and center when it comes to your appearance. They are the main tool in all your verbal and non-verbal interactions with other people. It just makes sense to give this important feature of your face the attention it deserves.”

She offers the following age-defying tips for your lips: • If you smoke, stop. The repeated action of pursing your lips around a cigarette creates dynamic wrinkles, the type of wrinkles caused by repeatedly moving your skin a certain way. Eventually, those wrinkles will remain even when your lips are at rest.

• For that same reason, limit your use of drinking straws and anything else that causes you to repeatedly purse your lips.

• SPF is needed for your lips as well as the rest of your body. If your

February 2009

by Kristy Armand

lipstick doesn’t contain SPF, start with a base of SPF lip balm before applying your lipstick.

• Pick up a bottle of vitamin E oil or lip balm with vitamin E. The lips are a very common site for skin cancer because they don’t naturally secrete vitamin E-rich sebum, which is the oil that helps protect your skin. In addition to cancer protection, vitamin E will also help prevent the signs of aging.

• If your lips become flaky, use a fine exfoliating scrub and be sure to follow it with a hydrating product.

If you’re really interested in plumper lips, consider cosmetic filler injections. Mark Crawford, MD, facial cosmetic specialist and Medical Director of the Aesthetic Center, explains that cosmetic fillers, including Restylane, Perlane, Juvederm, and Radiesse, have come a long way in recent years. “Our options for lip injections today are safer, longer-lasting, and provide a much more natural-looking result.”

Dr. Crawford says one of the things women like most about injection treatment is the short time commitment and quick results. Injections take less than half an hour, including the deadening time, and results are usually apparent within 24 hours.

For more information about lip care and treatments at the Aesthetic Center, call 310-1070 or visit www.facehealth.net.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

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5

Don’t Play Games with Love It’s February – the month of love and relationships. But this February I want to address something different than the usual birds singing/running to each other in a field of flowers slow motion kind of stuff. I want to discuss the things I see happen with many of the couples I work with – mind games.

The silent treatment. An oldie but a goodie. I am amazed by couples who tell me they go for days without talking to each other. And many admit that after a period of time they can’t even remember what the silent treatment is about. How ridiculous!

Mind games are normally played as a way to get the other person’s attention in an indirect manner. Instead of asking clearly for what you want/need, you use a manipulative tool to get what you want. Here are a couple of my favorite mind games:

“Oh, she knows.” One of my big requirements in therapy is direct communication of progress. Many times when I ask, “how have you let him know you like the efforts he’s making?” I’m told, “Oh, I’ve been nicer to him.” Or, “I think she knows, I’m not leaving home as much.” Or with teens, parents will tell me, “Well, he should have figured it out – he hasn’t been punished.” Not good enough.

“You should know.” I love this game. I truly have had clients tell me those very words. “You should know why I’m angry.” When I ask why exactly their partner should know, I very rarely get direct answers. And often the partner is looking at me with pleading eyes – “Please figure this out for me.”

Sometimes it’s crazy stuff – “I had a really bad day at work and you didn’t even ask me about it.”

“What’s wrong?” “Nothing.” Another favorite, and one that we’ve all played. Clearly something is wrong, but every time you ask what is wrong you are told, “Nothing.” Even the word “nothing” is said in such a way that you know something is wrong.

As you can see, mind games usually involve a certain amount of mind reading. Please read my mind and know that something is wrong and I want you to beg me to tell you until I give in. Please read my mind when I tell you, “You should know,” and figure out what is wrong. Please read my mind when I’m not speaking words to you and instead am slamming doors that I want you to come to me so we can repair the relationship. Please read my mind and know by my vague responses that things are going better.

I believe in direct communication. If you need or want something from me, you need to tell me. If something is bothering you, you need to tell me. If you like something I do and you want me to do it again, you need to tell me. I’m not promising I will give you what you need, or will do whatever it is you ask, but it’s definitely your best shot.

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In order for you to be willing to directly communicate with me, you must know that I will respond appropriately and that our relationship can take the intensity. Each person needs to know that the other person will be more committed to resolving the issue and improving the relationship than their own defensiveness or hurt. These things are more easily evaluated and addressed early in the relationship. The longer the relationship and the longer the mind games have been played, the more work it is to break these patterns. This doesn’t mean it’s not worth it, though.

Another thing about me is that I take you at your word. I am not going to beg you to participate in our relationship. I will ask you one time if everything is OK. If you say nothing is wrong, I’m not going to continue to ask the same question over and over. Sometimes I will say, “You know, you sound as if something is wrong even though you’re telling me everything is OK. If you change your mind and want to talk about anything, I’m available.” That’s it. No begging, and no continuously coming back to check in with you. You’re a big boy/girl and you need to be responsible for your own emotional stuff.

We have all played these mind games at one time or another. And we play them subconsciously – because we grew up with them (I’ll bet if you think back you can remember your parents doing the same thing.) The goal is to get better at recognizing the mind games and replacing them with direct communication. Good luck!

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2009

Spinal Manipulation Can Bring Relief from Back Pain

by Christine Fisher Anyone who has experienced back pain knows that while in the throes, the pain and discomfort can put a quick halt to activity, and the search for relief begins in earnest. It’s common for adults to have at least one episode of significant back pain in their lifetime with no known cause; in fact, statistics show at least 80% will experience back pain. It’s the most common cause of job-related absences in America. Finding relief can help get people back to work and resume their regular activities.

Generally, back pain improves within a matter of weeks for most people; but in some cases, the pain can endure for long periods of time. Enduring the discomfort, whether it lasts for weeks or months, can be difficult when the pain interferes with life. Most people seek some kind of treatment to help relieve the pain while the back is healing and turning to a chiropractor is common. “The majority of my practice, I’d say up to 99%, is dedicated to relieving back and neck pain,” explained Donald Thigpen, DC. “Because of the spine’s relationship with other body parts, many times pain in the extremities can be traced back to the spine.”

Research from many areas relating to both medical and chiropractic care shows that spinal manipulation can provide mild-to-significant relief from low-back pain. During an adjustment, the chiropractor uses his or her hands to apply a controlled, sudden force to a joint to restore proper mobility and function to the spine. “Proper alignment and mobility of the body’s musculoskeletal structure, especially the spine, will promote proper function and pain relief for the neck, back and sometimes even the extremities,” said Dr. Thigpen.

According to the Mayo Clinic, research shows chiropractic to be helpful in treating neck pain and headaches. In 2007 guidelines, the American College of Physicians and the American Pain Society include spinal manipulation as one of several treatment options for practitioners to consider using when pain does not improve with self-care. Some common self-care techniques include rest and over-the-counter pain relievers.

Health experts have reviewed the safety of spinal manipulation and concluded that it is relatively safe when performed by a trained and licensed practitioner. “The chiropractic profession has amassed a significant amount of research to support the treatment of many conditions through chiropractic care. In treating my patients, I tend to be more conservative and attempt to maintain practice techniques that are supported with evidence-based research,” said Dr. Thigpen.

The most common side effects of chiropractic are generally minor and include temporary discomfort in the treated area, headache or tiredness.

These effects usually go away in 1 to 2 days.

While chiropractic is generally safe for most people, manual spine manipulation is not recommended for people with severe osteoporosis, spinal cord compression or advanced inflammatory arthritis. Letting the chiropractor know of your medical history will allow him or her to provide the most appropriate treatment to gain the best outcome.

For more information, call Dr. Thigpen at the Chiropractic Center at 562-0817 or visit www.chiropracticcenter.info.

February 2009

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2009

Dress Up the Ears

Instead of the Fingers

Smitten men who want to steer clear of diamond rings may want to consider a pair of earrings for their significant other this Valentine’s Day, according to jeweler Michael Richard.

“Any piece of jewelry is considered personal, especially when it’s given as a gift. The great thing about earrings is that they make a wonderful gift for significant others as well as other loved ones. Rings are typically considered very personal, intimate and romantic.

Earrings share a same level of individuality, but can speak to all different levels of intimacy,” said Richard, owner of MB Rich Jewelry in Lake Charles.

Many women are particular about their earrings, which can make it tricky to purchase them as a gift, but according to Richard, there are several guidelines a gift-giver can follow to ensure that the earrings are well-received.

• Although elaborate earrings look appealing under glass, consider something a

little more understated. It doesn’t have to be boring necessarily, but you don’t want the earrings to overwhelm the ears. Leave the more complicated purchases to the recipient herself.

• Pay attention to the earrings your recipient typically wears. Does she wear more gold than silver? Does she prefer the subtle or ornate? It is possible to purchase ornate earrings that are also understated and more universal.

• Believe it or not, hairstyle plays a vital role in the display of earrings. Large dangle earrings may not work well with a “boy cut,” while tiny studs may get lost behind long hair.

• If you want to play it safe, small hoops are a mainstay for most women. If you want to be more personal, consider the wearer’s personal style.

For more information on how to select jewelry as a gift, contact MB Rich Jewelry at 474-0080 or visit 615 W. Prien Lake Road.

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February 2009

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

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We’ve Got Your Number And it tells us everything we need to know about caring for your clothing.

This tiny bar code is heat sealed onto each garment you bring into AAA. It’s an important feature of our new automated assembly system that helps us track and process your dry cleaning order more quickly, carefully and efficiently.

Drive through convenience, improved automation and digital tracking are helping AAA raise the bar for customer service.

SHOWN ACTUAL SIZE

Local Psychiatrist Takes on the World Wide Web Local board-certified psychiatrist Dr. Dale Archer has launched www.TellDrD.Com, a Web site designed to provide advice for persons worldwide through a free and accessible medium.

The Web site, which currently averages about 1,000 hits per day with no formal advertising, allows anonymous visitors to send Dr. Archer questions directly. Responses are posted on the site, which also includes a blog and videos that discuss common mental health concerns, such as chemical imbalance and panic attacks.

“I wanted to take the philosophy that I have used to help patients locally and translate that into a forum that would be simple and easy for people anywhere in the world to access,” Archer said.

Dr. Archer’s “Take Charge of Your Life” philosophy motives people to take responsibility for their personal choices so they can lead a healthier and more productive life. Dr. Archer maintains that all people he treats, whether they suffer from a chemical imbalance or a personal setback, have the ability to take charge of their decisions and their lives.

“When you take responsibility for your own life, there’s no one around to blame. You choose your own responses. You can’t always control the circumstances of your life, but you can choose how to respond to them,” said Dr. Archer, who also applies his competitive poker experience to his psychiatric approach. “You can’t control the hands you’re dealt, but you can control how you play the game.”

Dr. Archer said he developed the Web site as a way to expand his exposure to advice-seekers worldwide. He’s worked with local and regional media since 1987, when he teamed with KPLC every week for an advice segment that lasted three years. A call-in radio show and Q&A column for Lagniappe magazine soon followed.

He has recently branched out to business consultations in such locales as London, Russia, New York, and Dubai, and will meet soon with a New York producer interested in developing a TV and radio call-in program.

Dr. Archer, a distinguished fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, is a graduate of Tulane Medical School and the University of Texas. He has more than 20 years’ psychiatric experience and founded the Institute for Neuropsychiatry in Lake Charles in 1988.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2009

Laser Hair Reduction:

by Erin K. Cormier

The #1 procedure sought by youth The number of non-surgical cosmetic procedures performed in the U.S. has grown an astonishing 747 percent since 1997, primarily because of advanced technologies that allow consumers, predominantly women, to diminish wrinkles and remove blemishes quickly and, in most cases, painlessly.

which also utilizes an interactive cooling tip for patient comfort, is FDA approved. In some cases, the procedure may only take a few minutes.

Among the most common procedures sought by women is laser hair removal.

Although it has not yet reached the number of men and women receiving Botox injections, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery reported that more than 1.4 million people, mostly women, received permanent hair reduction treatments in 2006. Laser hair removal was the number one procedure sought by the younger generation.

“The procedure is ideal for both men and women,” Dr. Morris said, noting that permanent hair reduction with the IPL does not typically have serious side effects.“Like anything dealing with light or laser therapy, there are few. The most common that we see are temporary redness and swelling, both of which are generally mild.

Occasionally, patients may experience some minor outbreaks of acne in the treated areas, but it’s only temporary.”

“Since our doors opened in the fall of 2007, women have been the most commonly treated patient for hair reduction. The most common areas that are typically treated here are the upper lip, chin, underarms, bikini areas and legs. The most common areas for our male clients has been the back chest and arms,” said Dr. Jason Morris with Skin Deep Advanced Aesthetics in Moss Bluff.

“However, we can treat just about any area on the body that has unwanted hair.”

Dr. Morris uses the Palomar Starlux system, which uses intense pulsed light that achieves up to 90 percent permanent reduction of hair growth by targeting and permanently destroying the stem cells in each hair follicle. This method,

February 2009

Skin Deep Advanced Aesthetics also offers Botox, Juvederm, REstylane and Perlane, which are used to reduce wrinkles. Dr. Morris performs the procedures personally.

For more information on permanent hair reduction or wrinkle-reduction procedures, call 855-5300 or visit the office at 277 N. Hwy. 171, Suite 8. Free consultations and cosmetic plans are available.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

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11

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r, 7pm – Royal Gala @ LC Civic Cente Mic en Op ht: Nig r rite gw on r/S Open Mic – Singe – Singer/Songwriter Night: & r Ba na Lu @ nch Bu an Ry na Bar & Hosted by Hosted by Ryan Bunch @ Lu Grill, 9pm Grill, 9pm Wednesday, February 18 Tuesday, February 24 & Grill, n/ – Open Mic Night @ AJ’s Bar – Red Hat Parade @ Downtow am :30 10 8pm es, arl Midtown Lake Ch 19 ry rua Feb y, ty da yal urs Ro Th – Mardi Gras Past Krewe na Bar & n Lake – Acoustic Music Night @ Lu Parade @ Downtown/Midtow Grill, 9pm Charles Magnolia Friday, February 20 – MARDI GRAS MADNESS w/ Grill, & r Ba na Lu @ ) stin (Au l, ids – Dubk Sons, Sequoyah Prep Schoo y@ 9pm Meriweather, Parrell The Sk e and – Oh Julliet, The Arma Mirag Luna, AJ’s, 8pm ll, 10pm ck Party Windors Dr. @ AJ’s Bar & Gri – Krewe de Charlie Sioux Blo 21 ry rua Feb eets, Saturday, @ Corner of Broad & Ryan Str & za an ag rav Ext jun Ca – World Famous 10am Center, Gumbo Cook-off @ LC Civic Thursday, February 26 na Bar & 8am-2pm – Acoustic Music Night @ Lu s Gra rdi Ma @ in Erw Sax – Duston Cajun Grill, 9pm Center, Gumbo Cook-off @ LC Civic Friday, February 27 ded on 10am – The Last Chalaron & We Lan @ e rad Pa a eg Om ll, 9pm – Krewe of the Moon! @ Luna Bar & Gri m 2p es, arl Ch e r & Grill, Downtown Lak – Ashes of Babylon @ AJ’s Ba Bar & na Lu @ ) stin (Au th rsy Fo y – Gu 10pm Grill, 9pm urday, February 28 Sat @ xy Brown als, – Knuckle Deep and The Bo Monday, February 9 LAC LIVE w/Plump, Free Radic DU – c Mi en Op ht: pm ls, AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10 – Singer/Songwriter Nig Research Turtles, Sunrise Kil ic Bar & Civ na LC Lu @ @ ow nch Sh Bu ns an sio Ry Illu an @ by of d ter Hoste – Krewe Nothing More, Colorcast Ve m 0p Center, 7:3 Grill, 9pm Luna, AJ’s, 9pm Sunday, February 22 Thursday, February 12 Sunday, March 2 Civic na Bar & Open Mic – Taste de la Louisiane @ LC – Acoustic Music Night @ Lu – Singer/Songwriter Night: m -2p am 11 na Bar & Center, Grill, 9pm Hosted by Ryan Bunch @ Lu n tow wn Do @ e rad Pa 13 – Children’s Day Friday, February Grill, 9pm stin) @ (Au ds en Fri h wit e gn pa am Lake Charles, 3pm – Ch LC Civic Luna Bar & Grill, 9pm – Krewe of Barkus Parade @ Center, 3pm Saturday, February 14 Bar & Grill, na Lu @ lon by Ba of s hted Boat Parade @ LC Civic he Lig As – – Center Seawall, 6:30pm 9pm the ve rvi Su m, gra – 2nd Party Pro an @ Musical and Colorcast Veter AJ’s Bar & Grill, 10pm

We & Grill, – Open Mic Night @ AJ’s Bar 8pm Thursday, February 5 na Bar & – Acoustic Music Night @ Lu Grill, 9pm Friday, February 6 na Bar & – Maven (Baton Rouge) @ Lu Grill, 9pm s Bar & – 80’s Night w/Butt Roxx @ AJ’ Grill, 10pm Rock @ – Magnolia Sons w/Dash Rip O.B.’s, 9pm Saturday, February 7 rch Turtles, – LIVIN’ THE MUSIC w/Resea ”), Dilana (from CBS’s “Rockstar Chris ip, Sh r the Mo Kendall Morgan, t Las e Th r, Shearman, Fresh Necta m Chalaron & more @ O.B.’s, 7p ecial – Flatbed Honeymoon w/Sp 9pm ll, Gri Guests @ Luna Bar & & Grill, – Whiskey South @ AJ’s Bar 10pm

February 9-15 Looking to add some culture into your life this Winter? Head downtown for these exciting events!

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band schedules to or t en ev n tow wn do nd se e as ple r, da To be included in this calen danielle@thriveswla.com.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2009

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13

Back-to-Basics Weight Loss

by Christine Fisher It seems as though every few weeks there’s another holiday to celebrate. Christmas cakes and cookies have just been finished, but Valentine chocolates and King Cakes are already causing temptation. With so many holidays in quick succession, it’s tempting to look for get-slim-quick tricks.

Fran Landry, registered dietitian with West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital, said it all boils down to calories in equal calories out. “Everyone wants a quick fix, a few secret clues that will melt the holiday pounds off quickly. But, there’s nothing secretive about weight loss. If you burn more calories than you consume, you will lose weight.”

She finds that people often mistake being thirsty for hunger. Staying hydrated is one of the keys to losing weight, so drinking more water than usual can help keep hunger pangs away. “Water helps keep you hydrated, and it will help decrease hunger between meals,” Landry said. “Drinking water helps make you feel full.” Landry cautions against too many soft drinks, though. “They are full of empty calories, sugar, caffeine and sodium. Stay away!”

Keeping a food diary is another good tip for weight loss. Because of mindless eating in front of the TV, nibbling while at work, and sampling a few bites of your husband or wife’s dinner at the restaurant, you may not realize how much you’re eating. “It’s amazing how quickly those bites add up to extra calories,” said Landry. “Simply jot down everything you consume in a day and add up the calories at the end of the day.” Check online or in bookstores for calorie counting tools.

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February 2009

NEW NON-SURGICAL TECHNIQUE NOW AVAILABLE

Eliminating 500 calories a day can add up to a pound of weight lost in a week. Thanks to oversized muffins and cookies, just one of them can be close to 500 calories. Consider these foods: • One snack-sized bag (3 ounces) of cheese tortilla chips = 424 calories • Two cups of chocolate ice cream = 570 calories • Two glazed doughnuts = 600 calories Reducing portion size can significantly help curb how much you eat.

Landry suggests using a salad-sized plate instead of the larger dinner plates.

“Your plate will look full, so you won’t feel deprived. Chances are, you’ll feel full once you’ve eaten. Also, eat slowly. If you gobble your food in 10 minutes, you’re more likely to continue eating. If you purposely try to draw out your meal to last longer by eating more slowly, you’ll feel fuller.”

In addition to the food tips, she suggested using a pedometer. They are inexpensive and track how many steps you take during the day. “Everyone should strive for 10,000 steps each day. It’s interesting to give it a try and see how much you walk.”

“Eating less and exercising more is the only way to lose weight and keep it off; but unfortunately, no one wants to listen to that!” she said. “We all wish we could simply take a pill or push a button to slim down, but it doesn’t work that way.”

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15

Talking to Teens about

by Christine Fisher

Budgets

Savings. Moderation. Bargain shopping.

These terms might as well be in Chinese, if you’re using them in a conversation with your teenager. Getting them to understand these concepts can seem like a losing battle. Today’s teen is armed with more money than any other generation, the independence and mobility to spend this money, and lots of promotional messages telling them exactly what to spend their money on, thanks to Hollywood.

The 39 million teens in the United States spend $158 billion per year, according to the 2000 U.S. Census. More than $2 billion a year is spent on advertising aimed directly at kids. It’s enough to send anyone 13 – 18 years old straight to the nearest mall -- and their parents over the edge in frustration.

“Parents often ask me what they can do to instill good money sense into their teens,” said Connie Blanchard, Branch Manager with Cameron State Bank. “My initial response is always the same: kids learn by example. If you are stressed out as you balance your account each month, or if you fight with your spouse regularly about money, you’re sending confusing signals to your kids. Straighten out your finances so that you can properly guide your teen concerning theirs.”

Blanchard says the first step in money management is developing a budget. “It sounds boring, but it’s the building block of any good financial system. You have to have a plan on how money will be spent, so you can get a balance between money coming in and money going out.” Her advice is to have the teen list all sources of incomes, such as money from allowances or jobs.

Then, list regular expenses; don’t include anything normally paid for by the parents. Subtract the expenses from the income. If the result shows a lack of money, it’s time to trim some of the expenses. This give and take of creating a budget is real world experience, as they’ll need to repeatedly do this in the years to come.

If they need to curb expenses, talk about the ways they can do this; such as renting a movie instead of watching it at a theater, shopping the sales at their favorite stores instead of paying full price, grabbing a sandwich at home instead of eating out frequently. Again, these are real world solutions for common situations faced every day. “If they can get a handle on things like this, they may avoid serious financial problems in the future,” Blanchard said.

Once your teen is managing his or her own money, it’s likely they’ll have a shortfall, even with all the careful planning that was done initially. Spur-of-the-moment purchases, or just buying too many little things can send a budget in a tailspin, and it happens to us all. Parents should resist the urge to bail their teen out. If your teen can depend on you to come up with extra cash, he or she will never learn to manage money wisely. Let them limp through the rest of the month so they can get a taste of the consequences. But, don’t be judgmental; your teen needs to know they can always come to you for advice.

Often, teens just aren’t aware of the cycle of money. By allowing them to be responsible for a portion of money, they can better understand money management.

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February 2009

N O W A C C E P T I N G N E W PA T I E N T S

by Erin K. Cormier

Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics Accepting Most Insurances New Patient Appointments can be made in the same week

For Valentine’s Day, take the road less traveled

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Red roses are the traditional staple of February 14, but there are plenty other options for those who want to stand out and take a unique approach to modern-day wooing. When asked for good alternatives to the world’s most romantic flower, these local florists had a few suggestions.

“Gift baskets, goodie baskets, plush animals, and balloon bouquets are all good alternatives,” said Linda Ortego of A Daisy A Day (4339 Lake St.).

If you’re determined to send flowers, but don’t want roses, she said to consider tulips, lilies, or Gerber daisies, which are bigger and brighter than traditional daisies. “They’re about three inches wide,” she said. “Beautiful.”

Linda Mouton of the Enchanted Florist (731 E. School St.) said candy bouquets and gift baskets make great gifts; baskets can be personalized based on the recipient’s personality – there’s one for the golfer and another for the fisherman, for example.

She said tulips, potted plants and miniature azaleas are also worthy of consideration.

Flowers aren’t the only way to say I love you, says Amy Canter of Heart Desires (3301 Ryan St.). “Give your husband or wife a handwritten love note, run a bubble bath, and sprinkle the rose petals around the tub,” she said, playfully adding that “one rose can say just as much as a dozen – unless they’re being delivered to work.” She also recommends that lovers drop each other flowers even on noncelebratory days of the year.

Danny Faye Miers at Wendi’s Flower Cart (3617 Common St.) thinks there’s nothing wrong with mixed bouquets instead of red roses, especially for those on a budget. She also said that roses don’t have to come in dozens, contrary to popular belief.

A beautiful arrangement can be made, no matter how large, or small, the number.

“Blooming orchid plants are the hot thing right now,” says Chris Allen of Paradise Florist (2925 Ernest St.). “They’re gorgeous and they last a long time with relatively little care.” He also suggested tropical flowers and mixed arrangements, which “create a bigger show for less money” than a dozen roses.

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• Info. on emergency room health service • Fun jump & games for kids!

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SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA COUNCIL www.thriveswla.com

17

Hips Can Keep Knees in the Right Groove

by Christine Fisher A catch in your knee can cause you to stop activity quickly. Whether you’re climbing stairs, or bending to get something on the ground, once your knee catches, you feel it.

Chronic knee pain, known as patellofemoral pain syndrome, may be relieved by strengthening the thigh and hip muscles. “Exercises that strengthen the quadriceps in the thighs and also the hip muscles can help get knees back in their proper groove,” said John Noble, MD, orthopaedic surgeon with Center for Orthopaedics.

This common knee problem causes pain under and around the kneecap, and usually worsens from activity or prolonged inactivity. While the exact cause is unknown, it is affected by the way the kneecap, or patella, moves on the groove of the thigh bone, or femur. When the patella is misaligned, it can cause pain. “Tightness in the quadriceps and hamstring muscles

contribute to this problem,” said Dr. Noble.

A group of physical therapists from Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City conducted a study on 35 patients suffering from patellofemoral pain. The participants received six weeks of physical therapy that was focused on strengthening and improving flexibility in hip muscles. They found that strengthening the hip flexors, the muscles that bring the thigh and torso toward each other, made the most difference.

In addition to strengthening the hiprelated muscles, it also helps the overall health of the knee to reduce impact.

People who are prone to knee injuries should be careful of jogging or playing a sport that causes pounding on the knee joints, such as basketball or tennis.

Cycling can also cause patellofemoral pain.

Instead, brisk walking is a good alternative, as is swimming or low-impact aerobics.

“Elliptical trainers at gyms are also a great choice. The machine moves with you, supporting your weight as you work out,”

suggested Dr. Noble.

The shoes you choose to exercise in can also play a part in knee problems.

Regular exercisers may find it helpful to buy new shoes every few months, because when shoes break down, they lose some of their support. “If you’re under the care of a physician or physical therapist, bring your shoes in for them to examine. They may be able to see where you could improve on finding a properly-fitting shoe, and give tips on what to look for to get a good, supporting shoe,” Dr. Noble said.

Exercise, especially ones to strengthen the muscles in the hip and legs, should help relieve the knee pain. It’s always best to receive a thorough exam by a qualified physician to diagnose physical concerns. There are many types of knee pain, and by working with a physician, an individualized treatment plan can be coordinated.

For more information on knee pain, call the Center for Orthopaedics at 721-7CFO (7236).

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February 2009

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19

HEALTHY

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www.rolypoly.com 20

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(337) 494-LUNA February 2009

Wallet $ays Finances

Financial experts agree that while you may think these types of details are insignificant, the way you manage

your day-to-day finances does reflect your money personality.“The way you literally handle your cash is often very much in line with your beliefs about the role of money in your life,” says Christa Charlet, Officer with Cameron State Bank. “Taking a closer look at what you do with small amounts of money in your routine, daily life can help you refocus and become more disciplined about your big financial goals.”

There are many different types of money mismanagement habits that can be detected by examining the contents of a wallet. For example, Charlet says many people have no idea how much money they have on hand at any given time. “They don’t know how much cash is in their wallet or in their checking account, and they aren’t worried about it because they’ll buy whatever they need with a credit card. People who don’t know how much money they have in their wallet may also be unaware of what’s in their bank accounts or even their retirement funds.” She says they may just not be diligent enough to keep up with the balances or they may be afraid to face the stark reality of their financial situation.

“This is dangerous, because you are much more likely to spend beyond your means if you don’t have at least a ballpark figure February 2009

of how much money you have available. As difficult as it may be, the first step toward better financial management is getting a good handle on how much money you really have. Then you can establish goals and start doing a better job of budgeting and saving.”

Are you one of those people whose wallet is always empty? If your cash seems to quickly disappear every time you get it, necessitating multiple trips to the ATM between pay checks, Charlet says you need to do a better job of assessing how you are spending your money. “In all likelihood, you are probably spending more than you think you are on small things that add up to big chunks of your discretionary income.” To get started on better awareness of spending patterns, Charlet advises keeping a record of everything you spend for several weeks.“You’ll be surprised at how quickly you learn exactly where your money is going.”

If your wallet is disorganized, with crumpled bills and money in different compartments, and if you have money haphazardly scattered around your home or vehicle, you may want to take a closer look at how well organized your finances are. “If you leave money just lying around, you’re basically saying it’s not important enough to put it in a safe and protected place,” says Charlet. “Someone who treats money carelessly often does not respect money or put a big enough focus on the financial aspects of their life.” Charlet says the key to changing this behavior is recognizing the buying power of the money you’ve been discarding.“Add up all of the miscellaneous bills and coins on a regular basis. You’d be surprised at the total and will soon start giving your spare change the respect it deserves.”

Another big wallet problem is receipts.

You pull out your wallet and can’t even

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

by Kri sty

What’s in your wallet?

Is it stuffed with crumpled currency and a wad of outdated, faded receipts?

Does loose change slide around the bottom of your purse and across the floor of your car? If you answered yes, then it may be time to reassess your financial management skills.

Ar ma nd

What your about your

get to your money without sorting through several months’ worth of receipts. “This is usually a person who knows they need to do a better job of keeping track of their spending, and thinks by just hanging onto receipts they are making progress,” says Charlet.

“But keeping them is not enough. You have to take the next step to organize them – which means getting them out of your wallet and into a filing system.”

And then there’s the person who has all the bills in their wallet lined up from largest denomination to smallest, or vice versa. They always know exactly how much money they have and have a firm grasp on how much they are spending and saving, tracking every last penny. “And while this type of person thinks they have the best possible financial habits, they still face the potential for a different type of financial misstep – not allocating any money for fun,” says Charlet. “As with anything else, moderation is key when it comes to your finances. If you are too rigid in managing your day-to-day money, you could also be too strict about building relaxation and fun into your long-range financial planning. It’s important to reward yourself for your discipline, take a vacation, purchase something you’ll enjoy that you’ve been saving for, or just buy something fun occasionally.”

Charlet stresses that examining your wallet for clues about your financial personality is just a first step. “This is something you have to always be aware of and make a conscious effort to adjust as you go through different phases of your life.” www.thriveswla.com

21

Be forever

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Thru April 11

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South Ryan MRI is now Southwest Louisiana Imaging.

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We are excited to announce that we have joined with CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital to bring you the new state-of-the-art facility CHRISTUS South Lake Charles, located at 1601 Country Club Road.

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2009

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I’d like to thank the Academy … and my dog I quit watching awards shows long ago. Pampered celebrities wearing obscenely expensive clothes, thanking people I don’t know and groveling in their own humility – it all seems a little too “Hollywood” for this southern gal.

Last month, however, my cynical heart strings were pulled by an unexpected source: Mickey Rourke.

YOUR CHANCE OF GETTING CANCER IS BASICALLY THE SAME – NO MATTER WHERE YOU LIVE. THAT’S A FACT. Although many people believe cancer rates are higher here, it's just not true. Whether you are an artist in the west, a construction worker in the north, or an accountant in Southwest Louisiana, you have about a one in three chance of getting cancer.* What else is fact? Cancer mortality rates are higher in Southwest Louisiana, meaning fewer people with cancer survive here. There are many reasons for this, however, the biggest one is the fact that fewer people in our area get regular screenings. And we all know, the earlier cancer is detected, the better the chances of survival.

The most important fact? Getting regular screenings, along with living a healthy lifestyle, is your best defense against cancer.

Lifestyle factors cause most cancers.

So you can take control of your cancer risk by living a healthier life – don’t smoke, eat right and get plenty of exercise.

Some hard-core cynics are quick to remind me that my dog only loves me because I feed him. I don’t proclaim to know why our dogs love us, but I do know this: Even if I quit feeding Miles, he’d still follow at my feet and wag his tail when I come home. He would still jump on my lap and fall asleep. True, he might abandon me for a few minutes if he spotted a stray piece of bacon on the road, but he’d be back. And even if he only loves me for my food, dogs aren’t humans, and their love comes along in different ways and for different reasons.

February 2009

Eyebrows • Eyeliner • Lips

from a local doctor

I’ve long believed that the only true unconditional love comes from our family pets, particularly our dogs. Anyone who has ever owned and cared for their own dog understands what I mean. They don’t mind if you’re having a bad hair day, if your clothes don’t match, or if you’re flat broke – all they care about is that you’re there. How many people do you know like that? Sadly, I don’t know many.

In what ways has your pet been your best friend? Email Erin K. Cormier at ecormier@ehealthyimage.com and let her know.

PERMANENT COSMETICS

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When the actor was awarded a Golden Globe last month, he took a moment in his acceptance speech to thank his dogs.“Sometimes when you’re alone,” he said,“all you got is your dog.” Although some seemed to think his shoutout was offbeat and perhaps a little corny, I thought it provided a muchneeded reality check for those of us who take our four-legged companions for granted.

What difference does it make, anyway? The bottom line is, in a world where people seem to take more than they give, our pets do just the opposite.

Obviously I don’t live in Hollywood-land and I don’t know Mickey Rourke from Adam, but I suspect that his dogs were there for him when he won his Golden Globe award for best actor last month – just as they were there for him when the Golden Raspberry Awards nominated him for worst actor in 1990 for “Wild Orchid.”

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Thrive Magazine for Better Living

J.A. “Pepe” Vasquez

PRESIDENT & CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

February 2009

Men Can Get Breast Cancer Too S

tatistics show that breast cancer affects one out of every four women, but little is said about the threats to men. Although breast cancer in women is far more common, the National Cancer Institute reports that nearly 2,000 men were diagnosed with the illness last year.

“We may have a mother, sister, or friend affected by the disease, but some of us may also have a father or brother who’s been diagnosed with breast cancer,” said Henry Goolsby, MD, Oncologist/Hematologist with Lake Charles Medical and Surgical Clinic.“Breast cancer is a malignant tumor – a group of cancer cells that start in the cells of the breast, then spread around the body. Even though we don’t think of men as having breasts, they do have breast tissue that can undergo cancerous changes.”

According to Dr. Goolsby, incidence rates among men are lower because they have less breast tissue and fewer cells than women, but “because it occurs less often, many men think it’s a disease that only women get. A lot of times, men may ignore the early signs and symptoms of breast cancer.” Dr. Goolsby said that men are less likely to visit a doctor for treatment and may be embarrassed to find a lump in their breast,“but if you wait too long, you give the cancer time to spread.”

There are several risk factors for male breast cancer, according to Dr. Goolsby.

These include age, genetics, certain diseases, hormone treatment, radiation exposure, gene mutations, and Klinefelter’s syndrome. The average age for men when diagnosed is between 60 and 70, and 20 percent of those men typically have a family history, including close female relatives who have been diagnosed.

by Laila Morcos

treatment option is hormone therapy, which includes prescription medications that prevent the hormones that spread and reproduce cancer cells.

“As we know, early detection and better treatment options are saving more and more women’s lives, and they can do the same for men. People used to think the prognosis for men was worse than that for women. But today, we know survival rates are almost the same,” Dr. Goolsby said, adding that the 5-year survival rate for cancer is determined by how soon the cancer is detected and at what stage it is detected.

“It pays to pay attention to any differences or changes in your breasts, whether you’re a man or a woman. If you detect something a bit different, make sure you call your physician.”

“Some men, particularly those with prostate cancer, may be treated with estrogen, which can create an increased risk. Severe cases of liver disease can also increase the risk because the disease often results in lower levels of male hormone,” Dr. Goolsby said, noting that there are some signs and symptoms of breast cancer that men should be aware of.“If a man or a woman fells a lump or experiences skin dimpling, redness, swelling or discharge, it’s time to see a doctor immediately.”

According to Dr. Goolsby, the first thing a physician will do is conduct a breast exam and give the patient a complete physical to check for any other problems.

Oftentimes, the lump is much more obvious to detect in men because there’s not as much breast tissue, but it could spread quicker than in women.

Afterwards, a physician may require a mammogram, which is an x-ray of the breast. Finally, a biopsy may be necessary to determine whether breast cancer is present. A biopsy is a sample of breast tissue examined microscopically.

it occurs “less…because often, many men

think it’s a disease that only women get.

”

– Henry Goolsby, MD

If breast cancer is detected, there are several treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, Dr. Goolsby said. Another potential

February 2009

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part of a Shearman Research Grant from the McNeese Foundation.

The Abercrombie Gallery is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

For more information about the exhibit, call the McNeese visual arts department at 475-5060.

Emoticon Look-a-Like Contest at Library

Dance Theatre of Harlem Visits Lake Charles The Dance Theatre of Harlem will perform at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, in Rosa Hart Theater at the Lake Charles Civic Center. Tickets are $10 for adults and free to those 18 and under.

The nationally and internationally renowned troupe will stop in Lake Charles as part of their 12-week “Dancing For America” tour. Dancers will perform a mixed program of excerpts, one-act ballets, dance suites and pas de deux, with a narrator to serve as a guide to the world of dance. The local event, which will also include a master class and school show, is being assisted by the McNeese Banners Cultural Series and is part of McNeese’s Black History Month activities.

Tickets are available in advance by calling the Lake Charles Civic Center Box Office at 491-1432, via PayPal through the Banners Web site at www.banners.org or at the door the night of the event.

McNeese Hosts Financial Aid Seminars Financial aid staff members from McNeese State University will visit area high schools throughout February and March to explain financial aid application procedures to college-bound students.

The list of dates, high schools, libraries and the times are as follows. For more information, call the McNeese Office of Financial Aid at 475-5065.

• Wednesday, Feb. 4: Oberlin, 8:45 a.m.; Oakdale, 10:30 a.m.; Barbe, 6 p.m.

• Thursday, Feb. 5: Vinton, 10 a.m.; DeRidder, 6 p.m.

• Monday, Feb. 9: Westlake, 6 p.m.

• Tuesday, Feb. 10: Reeves, 9 a.m.; Vidor (Texas), 6 p.m.

• Wednesday, Feb. 11: Kinder, 5:30 p.m.

• Thursday, Feb. 12: LaGrange, 6 p.m.

• Tuesday, Feb. 17: Grand Lake, 9 a.m.; DeQuincy, 6 p.m.

• Wednesday, Feb. 18: Hathaway, noon; Epps Library (Lake Charles), 5:30 p.m.

• Thursday, Feb. 19: Singer, 9 a.m.; Sulphur Library, 6 p.m.

• Thursday, Feb. 26: Iowa, 6 p.m.

• Tuesday, March 3: Johnson Bayou, 9 a.m.; Hackberry, 12:30 p.m.; Westlake Library, 6:30 p.m.

• Wednesday, March 4: Simpson, 10 a.m.

• Friday, March 6: East Beauregard, 9 a.m.

Reinauer Presents “Heart and Word” Lisa Reinauer, professor of art at McNeese State University, has a solo exhibition titled “Heart and Word” now showing through Feb. 12 in McNeese’s Abercrombie Gallery located in Room 125 of the Shearman Fine Arts Center. The public is invited to a closing reception for the exhibit at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12, in the gallery. The exhibit is sponsored by the McNeese visual arts department.

The solo exhibition features acrylic and mixed media paintings that use hearts as the subject matter. Many of the works incorporate text with references from biblical, historical and literary sources. The body of work was completed as 26

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In celebration of Teen Tech Week, teens are invited to stop by any Calcasieu Parish Public Library through Sunday, February 15, to have their picture taken as they pose like any of 10 different emoticon images. According to the American Heritage Dictionary, an emoticon is a sideways facial glyph used in email to indicate an emotion or attitude, as to indicate intended humor . The emoticon images will be on display in the libraries.

An image of the teen, their first name, and the emoticon they resemble will be posted on the Calcasieu Parish Public Library website where the public can vote on who they think most closely resembles an emoticon. Parents must sign photo release forms before the photos will be used.

Voting will take place from Saturday, February 21 through Saturday, March 14, to coincide with Teen Tech Week (March 8-14). The winning teens will gather to have their picture taken again for an American Library Association poster to be displayed in area public libraries. Each winner will receive a copy of the poster.

For information, please call 721-7121 or 721-7118.

Stories Needed for Hurricane Documentary Local residents are invited to share their hurricane experiences for a theatrical documentary led by Charles McNeely, associate professor of theatre arts at McNeese State University.“The Hurricane Project,” a live stage production, will depict local residents’ preparation, experience and recovery stories from any local hurricane, including, but not limited to, Audrey, Lilly, Rita, Gustav and Ike. Interested persons can send their stories, thoughts, comments and opinions by mail to Charles McNeely, Box 92175, McNeese State University, Lake Charles 70609; or can contact McNeely at 513-8805 or by e-mail at cmac@ mcneese.edu. Names and contact info be included on all e-mails and mailings.

NASA Art: 50 Years of Exploration The 1911 Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center will present “NASA | ART 50 Years of Exploration” through April 11. Lake Charles is one of 11 cities nationwide to host the exhibition.

The art featured in the exhibit date from the inception of the NASA Art Program in 1962, when NASA administrator James E. Webb asked a group of artists to illustrate, interpret and elucidate the space agency’s missions and projects. The exhibit features artists as diverse as Annie Leibovitz, Nam June Paik, Norman Rockwell, Andy Warhol and William Wegman.

The 1911 Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center is open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Monday-Friday and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays. Admission is free, but donations are accepted. For more information, call 491-9147 or visit www.cityoflakecharles.com.

Lectures Presented to Adults Age 50 and Older The McNeese Senior Academic Group Encounter, or SAGE, program will offer lectures from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Mondays in Gayle Auditorium this spring with the theme of “The Bounty of Bayou Country.”

SAGE programs are open to adults age 50 and over and this year marks the 20th anniversary of the program. The lecture series schedule is as follows: Feb. 9,“A Diversity of Denizens,” Dr. Gay Gomez, associate professor of geography; March 9,“The Magic of Music,” Rick Condit, associate professor of music; March 23,“Perceptive Poetry and Prose,” Dr. Stella Nesanovich, professor of English; April 20,“Louisiana¹s Remarkable Women,” Dr. Janet Allured, associate professor of history (4 p.m. starting time).

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February 2009

The program fee is $25. For more information or to register, call Dr. Jane Carr, SAGE coordinator, at 478-5321.

Family & Youth Hosts Conference Family & Youth will present the 11th annual “Connections Count! Family Focus Professional Development Conference” at L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort on Wednesday, February 11, and Thursday, February 12, 2009.

Wednesday’s noon keynote speaker is Frank Kros, executive vice president of the Children’s Guild in Maryland and co-author of “Creating the Upside Down Organization: Transforming Staff to Save Troubled Children.” Featured speaker is Linda Cordisco Steele, senior trainer at the National Children’s Advocacy Center.

Steele has 25 of experience in therapy and advocacy work with victims and extensive training experience regionally and nationally.

Paul Rainwater, executive director with Louisiana Recovery Authority (LRA), is the keynote speaker at noon on Thursday, February 12. As the Louisiana Recovery Authority’s (LRA) Executive Director, Paul Rainwater serves as the governor’s chief hurricane recovery advisor, providing daily oversight and direction for the state’s recovery initiatives to carry out the LRA’s mission of rebuilding a safer, stronger, smarter Louisiana.

Other speakers include Tracy Moran, PhD, Clinical Child Postdoctoral Fellow at Tulane University Medical; Michael Turner, MD, Cardiologist; Carla Nobles, LPC, LMFT, Infant Mental Health Clinician; David A. Legendre, PhD, LMFT, LPC, LAC, Jan Disney, Ph.D., LPC, LMFT, and Stacie LeBlanc, MEd, JD.

Samaritan Appoints Board of Directors Samaritan Counseling Center has announced its Board of Directors for 2009.

They are Charles St. Dizier, President; Pam Spees, Vice President; Mary Kay Scalisi, Secretary; Randy Miller, Treasurer; Marlene Moore, Fund Raising; and Betty Ross, Bernell Ezell, Hope Snider, Louis Adams and Allen Abshire, members at large.

Wanda Cooper and David DeWitt will serve as Advisory Board members.

Samaritan Counseling Center offers counseling services for clients of all ages.

Fees are subsidized based on income and most insurance plans are accepted.

The Center is a United Way agency and is supported financially by an interfaith group of partner churches in the Lake Area. Samaritan’s mission is to provide help and hope to mind, body and spirit through interfaith pastoral counseling.

The main office is located at 833 Hodges St. in Lake Charles, with satellite offices at Christian World, also in Lake Charles, and at First Methodist Church of DeRidder.

Cameron State Bank Declares Semi-annual Dividend Cameron State Bank’s Board of Directors has declared and paid a dividend of $5 per share payable to shareholders of record as of December 19, 2008. This is the third dividend that Cameron State Bank paid in 2008. These dividends to shareholders total $6,966,217.50.

Roy M. Raftery, Jr, President and CEO of Cameron State Bank reports the bank had another record-breaking year of growth and profits with assets increasing from $620,377,000 at year end 2007 to $678,351,000 at year end 2008; deposits increasing from $523,422,000 at year end 2007 to $574,177,000 at year end 2008; loans increasing from $327,206,000 at year end 2007 to $385,997,000 at year end 2008; profits increasing from $8,254,000 at year end 2007 to $9,137,000 at year end 2008; and capital increasing from $59,481,000 at year end 2007 to $63,601,000 at year end 2008.

Cameron State Bank is a locally-owned and locally-managed community bank that has been named one of the safest banks in the country by various financial-rating corporations.

Career Fair on February 9 The McNeese State University Career Services Center will sponsor its spring career fair from 10 a.m.­3 p.m. Monday, Feb. 9, in the Parra Ballroom of the Student Union Annex.

The campus-wide event is designed to give McNeese students of all majors February 2009

and alumni an opportunity to meet with potential employers.

A list of current participants along with a listing of preferred majors may be viewed online at www.mcneese.edu/career. For more information call the center at 475-5612 or 1-800-622-3352, ext. 5612.

New Owners for Pure Foods Pure Foods & Health at 138 W. Prien Lake Road is now under the management of Dr. Gene and Shively Lampson.

Pure Foods offers a distinctive selection of natural and organic foods and natural supplements. The store also provides informative health and nutrition classes for the public, including seminars with raw foods chef Deby Harris, and nutritional consultations with local chiropractic physician Dr. Eric Snow. In addition to providing organic and natural foods, the store is designed to educate and provide resources to the community for better nutrition and healthy living.

Services include organic groceries, herbs, produce and bulk foods; natural and whole food supplements; aromatherapy; natural beauty products; educational books and cookbooks; an operational juice and smoothie bar; and healthy takeout lunches.

For more information, visit the store on West Prien Lake Road, call t905-PURE, or visit the Web site, www.purefoodsandhealth.com. A schedule of upcoming classes and events are included on the Web site.

Cameron State Bank Launches Mobile Banking Service As part of an ongoing effort to provide customers with more convenience and personal service, Cameron State Bank is now offering free Mobile Banking services.

The new service will give Cameron State Bank customers instant connectivity to their accounts anytime and anywhere, from the browser of their mobile phone. Customers can simply type the web address www.csbmobi.com into their phone’s internet application, and then enter their online banking user name and password. “This is another service of our Online Banking Product, and we are very excited to offer our customers a new way to conveniently and securely monitor their accounts,” says Loyd Rion, Jr., Executive Vice President with Cameron State Bank.“We value our relationships with our customers and want to provide them with the tools they need to make their lives easier in these increasingly hectic times.”

Cameron State Bank is a locally-owned and locally-managed community bank that has been named one of the safest banks in the country by various financial-rating corporations. For more information about Mobile Banking, call 310-2265.

Flavin Realty Welcomes Two New Agents Flavin Realty announces the addition of two real estate agents.

Shelly Ware Cormier, originally from Oakdale, has over 18 years of experience in Shelly Ware Cormier Jessica Guillot residential construction and recently joined Flavin Realty. Cormier is on the 2009 Charity Review Committee and the Education Risk Reduction and Technology Committee with the Southwest Louisiana Board of Realtors.

Jessica Guillot joined Flavin in January as a realtor and is originally from Lacassine. Agents with Flavin Realty assist with buying, selling and relocating; they also specialize in residential, commercial, industrial and property management. For more information, call 478-8530 or visit www.flavinrealty.com.

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LCMH Babies Break 6,500 Mark Lake Charles Memorial Hospital for Women has announced a nearly 10.5 percent increase in the number of babies delivered at Memorial’s Family Birth Center from 2007 to 2008.

Since January 16, 2003, Memorial for Women, which combines comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services, has delivered more than 6,500 babies. “In Lake Charles, family is everything and we understand that childbirth is one of life’s most meaningful events. But we also understand that every woman has unique needs and expectations,” said Marilyn McSwain RNC, MSN, Administrator of Lake Charles Memorial Hospital for Women, located in southwest Lake Charles.“Our steady increase in deliveries is an indication that the community recognizes the quality care and personal attention that our skilled staff and compassionate physicians provide, as well as the first class service and environment they receive as a patient of Memorial Hospital for Women.”

If you think Neil Armstrong’s first step on the moon was impressive, you’ll be amazed at the leaps we’re making in hip repair.

Helping people move in the right direction is what Center for Orthopaedics is all about. And when it comes to treating hip pain, we’re boldly exploring new frontiers.

Whether your hip pain is caused by an injury, or the wear and tear of arthritis, we have the team and the technology to help you get your life back on course. Our vast treatment resources include non-surgical management, minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques, computer assisted navigation, advanced joint replacement procedures, and space-age technology for joint resurfacing.

So if hip pain has you feeling out of step, give us a call. We might not be able to put you on the moon, but we’ve got the right stuff to to give you a pain-free landing with every step.

CFO is the region’s largest independent orthopaedic practice, providing patient-focused care for patients of all ages, including: • Fracture Care • Sports Medicine • Arthroscopic Surgery • Joint Replacement Surgery • Occupational Injuries • Back Pain and Spine Surgery

(337) 721-7248

501 S. Ryan Street, Lake Charles (1st floor of The Clinic) Sulphur Office: 250 S. Beglis Pkwy., Ste. 1 www.centerforortho.net • www.lakecharlesortho.com

James D. Perry, MD • Geoffrey J. Collins, MD • John W. Noble, Jr., MD • Gehron P. Treme, MD • Craig G. Morton, MD 28

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February 2009

with the effectiveness of 19th century medicine. He believed that many of the medications of his day were useless or even harmful. Dr. Still developed a philosophy of medicine that focused on the unity of all body parts. He identified the musculoskeletal system as a key element of health. He recognized the body’s ability to heal itself and stressed preventive medicine, eating properly and keeping fit. from the Calcasieu Parish Medical Society

The Many Steps Down the Road to MD If you’re like most people, you’ve been going to doctor’s offices ever since you were born, but have you ever thought of the many steps that your physicians had to take to get to your bedside?

The term “physician” is now widely used to describe medical doctors and distinguish them from holders of academic doctorates. The traditional form of physician is the MD, or Doctor of Medicine. Formal education and training requirements for physicians are among the most demanding of any occupation — four years of undergraduate school, four years of medical school, and 3 to 8 years of internship and residency, depending on the specialty selected.

Acceptance to medical school is highly competitive. Applicants must submit transcripts, scores from the Medical College Admission Test, and letters of recommendation. Most schools require an interview with members of the admissions committee. After acceptance, students spend most of the first two years in laboratories and classrooms. They take courses in anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, pharmacology, psychology, microbiology, pathology, medical ethics, and laws governing medicine. They also learn to take medical histories, examine patients, and diagnose illnesses.

Osteopathic medicine was very controversial for many years. The initial focus was on self-healing and wholeness and discouraged use of traditional medicines and therapies. Therefore, osteopaths were not considered true physicians for many years. However, through the years, colleges of osteopathic medicine (D.O.) changed and now closely parallel colleges of allopathic medicine (M.D.).

Physicians (in either sense of the word) need government permission to practice. This is known as licensure in the United States. Licensing is performed at the state level. All American states have an agency, which is usually called the “Medical Board”. In Louisiana, it is called the Louisiana State Medical Board. In the United States, the D.O. and the M.D. are the only two degrees permitting licensure as medical physicians.

So, your medical doctor today may be a D.O. or M.D. It is important to feel comfortable with your doctor and understand the many steps that he or she has taken to make it possible to provide treatment.

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During their last two years, students work long hours, often overnight, with patients under the supervision of experienced physicians in hospitals and clinics, learning acute, chronic, preventive, and rehabilitative care. Through rotations in internal medicine, family practice, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, psychiatry, and surgery, they gain experience in the diagnosis and treatment of illness.

Following medical school, almost all M.Ds undertake further training in a particular field referred to as residency training. This further training typically takes from three to six years, depending on specialty.

You may have also noticed two separate distinctions -- D.O. (osteopathic physician) and an M.D. (allopathic physician). Is there any difference between these two kinds of physicians? Yes. And no.

Osteopathic medicine is a form of American medical care that was started in 1874 by Andrew Taylor Still, M.D., D.O. Dr. Still was dissatisfied

February 2009

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Breaking Is Your Job

Your Heart?

by Christine Fisher

Bad bosses can wreak havoc on the health of their employees.

Anyone who has had a difficult boss can attest to the stress it causes. Now, a new study finds a direct correlation between a demanding supervisor and an increased risk for heart disease.

A recent study found employees who reported having an overbearing boss were at a higher risk for having a heart attack. The research was performed by Swedish scientists who tracked the heart health of more than 3,000 male workers for several years found that 74 workers or 2.5% had fatal and non-fatal heart attacks.

“While it is a small percentage, heart health is a sobering subject. Anything that shows a trend is something to take seriously,” said Chris Thompson, MD, cardiologist and member of the medical staff of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital.

He explained the affects of stress. “Long-term stress causes an increase in hormones, specifically adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones are designed to give the body extra strength and energy to fight during a

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time of crisis by increasing the heart rate, increasing blood pressure and increasing glucose production for extra energy,” Dr. Thompson said. “Nonessential systems, like the digestive system and the immune system, may decrease in order for the body to conserve energy for the critical functions needed to fight. If the body is kept at this high level for a prolonged time, it can cause damage.”

Extended elevated cortisol levels lead to high blood sugar and eventually diabetes, which is one of the major risk factors for the development of heart disease and the risk for stroke.

“There really is a link between job satisfaction and health consequences,” said Keri Forbess-McCorquodale, MS, LPC, LMFT, CEAP, Director of Solutions Employee Assistance Program. She provides mental health counseling for employees as a means to help them deal with problems so that they can be more productive on the job. She has seen first-hand the effects that poor management has on employees. “When employees feel as though they are in a pressure-cooker, they don’t function well. It affects their job performance and their health.”

Job stress occurs when demands are not able to be met and the situation is out of the employee’s control to remedy. This can occur if a boss has unrealistic expectations that even the most dedicated employee could not meet; or if a boss continuously changes what they expect, so employees are left in the dark about priorities.

“Workplaces can naturally be a challenging environment. Most employees today are constantly busy, doing the work of several employees as cutbacks continue to occur,” Forbess-McCorquodale said. “But, a challenge doesn’t have to equal long-term stress. A challenge can motivate an employee to produce the best work possible; stress, on the other hand,

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February 2009

leads employees to secondguess themselves, which causes less work to get accomplished.

The cycle feeds on itself.”

Poor management style in this particular study was described as: • lack of clarity in goals and expectations • poor communication • neglecting to seek input from employees when appropriate Forbess-McCorquodale said other hot button issues include lack of consideration or

alternatives for employees, lack of specific job description, and feeling as though the boss does not give the tools necessary to complete the job. “Most employees are dedicated and, when given direction and the things needed to accomplish the task, will work hard for the company. Sure, there are a few rotten apples here and there that try to take advantage and not pull their weight; but overall, most people will do a good job.

In order to have good employees, companies must ensure they have good management.”

Signs of continual stress include: • insomnia • headaches • depression • anger • withdrawing from others • overspending Dealing with job stress is important for good emotional and physical well-being.

Ignoring it can put hearts at risk for serious problems. Dr. Thompson said ways to combat stress include getting enough sleep, talking with a counselor, decreasing unhealthy habits

such as eating junk food or smoking. “One of the best ways to decrease stress and boost your health is through exercise. It gives your body a way to release the buildup of those ‘fight-orflight hormones’ that can cause damage if the stress continues for too long,” he explained.

Stress is a continuous factor that must be dealt with by everyone at one time or another. Learning how to deal with it on the job is good for both the mind and the heart.

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The State of Local Heart Care

Heart disease has touched virtually everyone at some point. It remains the number one killer of both men and women in America. While lifestyle choices like eating right and exercising make a tremendous difference in heart health, advancements made in technology are strengthening the battle against heart disease. by Christine Fisher

Thanks to these new tools, more targeted medications and campaigns to educate the public about how to prevent heart disease, the number of deaths attributed to heart disease in the United States has dropped significantly. Between 1999 and 2005, heart disease deaths dropped by over 25%, according to the National Center for Health Statistics as well as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Dramatic improvements have been made in the field of cardiology.

What were once thought to be risky procedures are now considered routine. When balloon angioplasty was first introduced in the early 1980s, it was considered controversial. To thread a balloontype stent through a coronary artery of someone in the throes of a heart attack seemed risky.

However, the almost instant result of being able to restore blood flow and minimize the damage to the heart muscle was indisputable.

Now, this therapy has progressed to the point where it is currently considered the standard of care for patients with symptoms of a heart attack in progress.

On a national level, developments with technology and medications are promising to bring many more improvements in the fight against heart disease. But what is happening on a local level?

We checked with area hospitals that provide heart care to learn more about what procedures and equipment are available in this area and to get insight into how individuals can take control of their risk for heart disease.

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Recent Advances in Heart Care Residents who needed diagnostic heart procedures in the Jennings area were accustomed to getting on I-10 and either driving to Lafayette or Lake Charles. But, with the 2008 opening of the cath lab at the Jennings American Legion Hospital, help is a short distance away.

Currently, the cath lab in the Jennings hospital provides diagnostic peripheral cath procedures. As Kellie Leger, RN, cath lab director explains, these procedures don’t always directly involve the heart muscle.

“Often, blood vessels outside the heart can become blocked with plaque. This interferes with the flow of blood to the brain, legs, arms or kidneys,” she said. “Diagnosing and treating these blockages can be done in the cath lab with equipment to help the physician get a clear picture of the vessels. Peripheral angiography and angioplasty are available here at the Jennings hospital to improve blood flow.”

West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital in Sulphur has increased their cath lab services to 24 hours a day. “Anytime a patient needs a cath lab procedure, we are ready,” explained Cathy Patton, RN, cardiology nurse. In addition, West Cal-Cam Hospital added cardiac CT imaging a few years ago giving physicians a way to look at the heart without an invasive procedure. “A 3D image of the heart is shown letting us see how the heart functions,” explained Chris Thompson, MD, cardiologist. “It can help find blockages before they become a problem, making it an excellent screening tool.”

On a national level, drug-eluting stents have been upgraded to include various sizes for a more customized fit and these new and improved types are available locally. According to William R. Condos, MD, cardiologist with Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, “They are now available in smaller and larger sizes for a better fit. These stents are sometimes referred to as a ‘coated’ or ‘medicated’ stent. They are normal metal stents that have been coated with a pharmacologic agent known to interfere with the process of re-blocking.”

Dr. Condos explained a procedure that was introduced at Memorial within the last three years known as directional atherectomy. “It removes plaque to clear blockages in the peripheral arteries, and it’s done with a catheter tip that is inserted into the artery. A bladed device cuts away the plaque and stores the pieces in a tiny container,” he said. The procedure is designed to remove soft or noncalcified plaque.

A non-invasive scan to look for calcium deposits in the arteries has been added at Memorial. Coronary Calcium Scoring can find excessive build-up of hard plaque along artery walls, a condition that can lead to heart problems. Soft plaque is also a concern and can cause narrowing in arteries. CT Coronary Angiogram involves injecting dye into the blood stream through a catheter. “Multiple images of the patient’s heart are captured and synchronized with his or her heartbeat,” Dr. Condos explained.

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Cardiologist Michael Turner, MD, was one of the first physicians in the country to become certified in cardiac CT recently. The technology is amazing, he said.

“Cardiac CT scanners in many instances allows us to gauge the health of the coronary artery system as effectively as an invasive procedure performed in the hospital, and is actually superior to cardiac catheterization in its ability to look at the anatomy of the heart,” Dr. Turner explained.

“This technology is the most importance advancement in the early detection and diagnosis of heart disease in my lifetime.”

A new addition to the technology portfolio at CHRISTUS St. Patrick Hospital’s Regional Heart Center is the TandemHeart®. “This is a new heart support device that takes over a large portion, up to 85%, of the blood pumping work normally done by the heart,” said Scott Hamrick, Director. When heart attack and other cardiac incidents reduce the heart’s capacity to pump blood, he said this device gives the heart time to rest and strengthen for a few hours, or up to several days, improving blood flow until the patient is strong enough to undergo surgery.

February 2009

Coming Soon to a Heart Near You The Jennings hospital plans to expand their cardiology services to include pacemaker implants and coronary interventional services.

“The overall goal is to provide these needed cardiology services close to home, so that people in our community won’t have to go out of town for these vital procedures,” said Terry Terrebonne, CEO of the Jennings hospital.

Digital is the new wave in technology across the field, including cath labs.

Soon, West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital will provide digital cath

services, enabling physicians to get clearer images while performing the delicate procedures.

At Memorial, the next few years will likely bring a new 120-slice CT scanner, as opposed to the 64-slice currently in use throughout the area. Also, taking a look at the size and shape of the heart will be easier thanks to a 3-D echocardiology machine that will “reconstruct an image of the entire heart as a solid image with accurate representation of its shape,” according to Dr. Condos.

At St. Patrick, Hamrick explained that the hospital is involved in several national studies involving coronary, peripheral and carotid stents. “We have partnered with local physicians to expand our ability to offer new minimally and/or non-invasive diagnostic technologies, such as MR Angiography and Cardiac CT,” he said.

Biggest Heart Threats Across the board locally as well as nationally, physicians say the biggest threats to healthy hearts in America are obesity, smoking and diabetes. “The sedentary life of average Americans is killing us,” said Dr. Thompson. “We don’t move around as much as previous generations, everything is centered on convenience. We’re over-stressed, overwhelmed and not getting enough exercise to combat these negative effects,” he said.

cholesterol level of a 22-year-old predicts the risk for heart attack over the next 40 years. Results from a study published in a recent issue of Circulation, affiliated with the American Heart Association, showed at least one risk factor for heart disease was found in almost two-thirds of children in the United States. These risk factors include high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels or excess weight around the midsection.

Smoking is another danger to heart health. Even though everyone knows its harmful effects, people continue to smoke. According to the Mayo Clinic, peer pressure is a root cause.

Young people are influenced to begin smoking because they want to fit in among friends, and then find they are soon addicted to nicotine. Every day, more than 3,500 people younger than age 18 try their first cigarette.

The habit continues until they are able to find a way to break the unhealthy habit.

No matter what your age, getting regular exercise is vital. “The general consensus for a solid foundation of health is to eat a wide variety of natural foods and get 30 – 60 minutes a day of physical activity,” said Dr. Thompson.

“It only makes sense that developing those good habits in our children will benefit them in the long run.”

Monitoring cholesterol and blood pressure were also mentioned by our heart health panel of experts.

And, it’s not just for the AARP age group. “The buildup of cholesterol in arteries begins early in life--often in adolescence--and worsens over time,” said Dr. Thompson. In fact, the

February 2009

professionals on-site at the facilities. “Local childhood obesity programs, such as KidPower, can help families refocus their lifestyles and help children develop healthy eating and exercise habits,” explained Hamrick.

In Sulphur, West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital provides Choose to Lose free of charge in an effort to get kids ages 6 – 12 motivated to live a healthier lifestyle. The classes are offered throughout the year in cooperation with The Pediatric Center and the information includes nutrition, exercise and is overseen by fitness and nutrition experts.

St. Patrick is partnering with local schools and industries to provide health

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Heart Care on the Horizon Numerous new medications are currently being tested that could revolutionize heart care as we know it.

Work is being done on a national level to find out how genes influence one’s heart health. According to Kevin Young, MD, cardiologist, “There is ongoing work in research including advances in gene therapy aimed at reversal of heart disease on a cellular and molecular level enabling the body to heal itself without the need for mechanical and drug therapy.

Gene therapy can enable us to treat the disease itself rather than having to rely on medication and technology.”

At St. Patrick, the Children’s Miracle Network is providing automated electronic defibrillators, or AED’s to the Calcasieu Parish high and middle schools, Catholic Diocese of Lake Charles Schools, Bishop Noland Episcopal Day School and Hamilton Christian Academy. “We are training school personnel on the use of this device, which will guide first responders through the lifesaving process in the event of a cardiac emergency,” Hamrick explained.

As technology continues to amaze us with the miracles it can accomplish, doctors remind us all that much of these advancements in medication

and machines wouldn’t be necessary if people would begin to live a heart healthy lifestyle. “Many deaths could be prevented, and people could live full, active lives if they would move more and eat less,” said Dr. Thompson.

“Lifestyle plays a bigger role in health than most people realize, and we could cut down tremendously on treatments for heart attacks, stroke and diabetes if people would realize their everyday choices matter.”

better chance than ever before of reducing the number of lives affected. That would make the state of this country’s hearts much stronger.

While heart disease remains the biggest threat to the health of Americans, because of new medications, advanced technology, research and education, we have a

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February 2009

Unleashing the

Power of Intuition

by Christine Fisher

A perceptive insight, an impression, a gut feeling – intuition is all of these and more. Learning to use this often untapped energy can propel life in a more positive direction in business, family and personal relationships.

There is something comforting about being around a person who relies on their intuition. They have a calmness and peace. They aren’t fighting against their daily routine; they aren’t easily irritated or moody. It’s as if they’ve achieved a balance in their life and aren’t bothered by circumstances. They are open to new ideas and explore what makes them happy.

Does it sound unattainable in the everyday rat race we live in? It’s not, according to experts. It’s a choice that is made.

• Intuition Exercises. During those quiet times, ask questions,

especially when weighing a decision. “What is the best outcome for this situation?”“What am I afraid of?”“Is there something I can learn from this?”

Instead of blindly reacting to everything that comes your way, develop a plan for your life. For big decisions such as buying a home, changing jobs, a situation with your child, or difficult conversations with family members, think about the result.“How will you feel?” “Will your life change dramatically?”“How does it affect those you love?”

• Discover What You Love to Do. When you feel enthusiastic, or

“A successful life isn’t defined by wealth or prestige,” said Dale Archer, MD, psychiatrist and director of the Institute for Neuropsychiatry.“Being a success means having an inner peace, a calmness that remains no matter what happens in life.”

Intuition has been called the compass of the soul. It’s available 24/7, if you learn to use it. “Anyone can learn to take advantage of intuition. It’s like a muscle. It takes time to develop, but if you continually exercise it, you will be amazed at your inner strength,” explained Dr. Archer.

Leaders in the business world have relied on intuition and achieved success, especially during chaotic times. “Stress is what happens when your intuition says no and your mouth says yes,” Dr. Archer said.“By tapping into intuition before making a commitment, many companies have saved thousands of dollars. It has helped them in navigating through tangled business deals.

People who have developed that innate sense of sizing up situations and making on-the-spot judgments translate directly into a more successful business leader.”

So, whether you’re a player in the corporate world, or you simply want a more peaceful life, you can develop your power of intuition. Here’s how:

• You have wisdom. Learn to use it. Intuition may be a feeling, an

impression, physical sensation or a dream. Do you get a sick feeling in your stomach when you weigh options on an impending decision? Are you excited when you consider a new venture? Pay attention to these messages to get in touch with how you’re feeling about issues in your life.“Often, these feelings or impressions happen when you find time for reflection,” Dr. Archer explained. “When your mind is busy and you’re

February 2009

juggling several things, you can’t listen to your inner wisdom. Setting aside a small portion of time during each day will help you tune in to your intuition.”

you have calmness about your life, you’ve tapped into your inner joy.

Successful people pay attention to what they feel passionate about. They commit to spending time each day doing what they love. For some, it’s a job that pays. For others, it may be volunteer work in the evening or on the weekend. It may be a hobby that you decide to pursue. Whenever you feel excited about something, cultivate it and watch your enthusiasm multiply.

• Practice Gratitude. Begin to notice and appreciate what you have,

and stop whining about what you don’t have. Everyone has strengths in their life. Do you have a healthy body? Do you have a strong group of friends? A close relationship with your family? An interesting job? Pay attention to the good things that happen to you throughout the day, no matter how small they are. What did you do today that helped someone else? Instead of focusing on what you don’t have, do something for another person.“Intuitive guidance comes more easily when you are open to and appreciate life,” Dr. Archer said.

• Choose to be Happy. Research has shown that happiness is a choice.

It is not necessarily dependent on life circumstances. “There are always a positive and a negative aspect to any change that occurs in your life,” Dr. Archer explained.“But you get to choose your focus.” Intuition provides information to make positive choices. Look for the good in situations.

This doesn’t mean a Pollyanna approach to life, ignoring tough choices or refusing to acknowledge a bad situation. It means knowing that no matter what comes your way, you will choose to focus on the positive and do what you can to encourage a good outcome.

Practicing intuitive thinking will help in all aspects of your life. By listening to your intuition, you’ll become a happier, more positive person and enjoy a different type of success - a successful you.

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Editor’s Note: This is the first story in a monthly series that will follow Leah and James Verret through their second pregnancy.

aversion and fatigue, according to Dr. Walter Guth of OBG-1 in Lake Charles.

by Erin K. Cormier

Baby Makes Four When Leah Verret found out she was pregnant a second time, she figured her pregnancy wouldn’t be much different than the first. The first time around, everything went off without a hitch – no morning sickness, few aversions, little fatigue. She quickly learned that the first-trimester ills that evaded her through her first pregnancy would befall her for the second.

“You think that the second pregnancy will be the same old, same old, but this time I was much more tired and nauseous. I had it easy the first time, so I enjoyed being pregnant. This time around was a little different,” Leah, 29, said. James, her husband of seven years, tried in vain to cook some of her favorite meals, but to no avail.“As soon as I’d see it, I’d tell him to take it away.”

Leah looks forward to the rest of her pregnancy now that she has escaped the first trimester – a time that is often marred by nausea, morning sickness, food

“The first trimester can be an anxious time for expectant parents, particularly the mother. Although the term ‘morning sickness’ is common, it’s not unusual for some pregnant women to feel discomfort throughout the day. It’s still not completely clear why women suffer through this during their first trimester, but it’s something that has to be endured,” Dr. Guth said. He suggested that women who experience first-trimester side effects like Leah should drink plenty of fluids and eat healthy foods whenever possible.“Ironically, the nausea discourages the woman from eating, which can ultimately make the nausea worse.”

The best thing women can do throughout the first trimester is “listen to their body,” Dr. Guth said.“More often than not, it will tell you what to do.”

Women have reason to be anxious during the first three months. The beginning months of pregnancy are a time of rapid, critical development in the womb; many important structures are forming during this period, including the heart, liver, stomach, brain, eyes and primitive backbones.

Despite being about the size of a grain of rice, a fetus at this stage of development already has a beating heart.“That’s why it is critical that women take caution at this time to avoid smoking, alcohol, and certain medications,” Dr. Guth said. A woman should never forget that once she becomes pregnant, she is now caring for two people instead of one. For most women, that knowledge sees them through the first twelve weeks of nausea, sickness and fatigue.”

The challenges of enduring fatigue during a second pregnancy can be particularly challenging when you already have a little tyke to look after – for the Verrets of Lake Charles, it’s two-year-old Jackson. Before Jack came along, Leah and James feared they couldn’t have children. After failed fertility treatments and months of disappointing news, they were researching adoption. Then Leah discovered she was pregnant.

“The second pregnancy wasn’t nearly as much of a shock as Jack was. We call him our miracle baby,” she said. She said Jack is aware that he will soon have a little brother or sister, but is generally nonchalant.“He’s too young to care right now, but he says he wouldn’t mind a little sister. I’m sure he’ll be in for a surprise.”

Jack won’t be the only one who will get a big surprise in a few months. Leah and James have decided to opt for mystery when it comes to baby number two. They plan to undergo ultrasounds that produce grainy, one-dimensional images, rather than the modernized three-dimensional pictures that parents can receive today. They don’t want to know the baby’s gender, either.

“It takes something away from the experience when you know what the baby’s gender is and what it will look like,” Leah said.“We want that day to be as special and memorable as possible.”

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February 2009

Big

paperwork. In some industries this trait probably isn’t a good fit. But for this accounting position, it’ll help me excel.”

Why did you leave your last job? Again, present this in a positive light. An interview is not the time to dish the dirt on a bad boss. A good answer would be,“The company wasn’t a good fit for my creative personality. I learned that organizations have distinct personalities, just like people do. Since your company seems to value independent thinking and alternative methods, I think I’d make a good fit.”

Score on Tough Interview Questions You look great! You’re wearing a terrific new outfit, you ate a good breakfast and your resume is top notch. You’re ready for that all-important job interview! Well, almost. As prepared as you are, your interview could be a disaster if you aren’t ready to answer those dreaded tough questions, like “Why did you leave your last job?” or “Where do you see yourself in 10 years?”

Here’s some advice for delivering a great answer from CareerBuilder.com.

What are your weaknesses? The trick here is don’t take this literally and go into a detailed explanation of your weaknesses. Instead, take a potential weakness and put a positive spin on it. For example, you could say:“I’m very meticulous – I take my time with important

Why do you want to work here? Questions like these require you to do your homework before the interview. You should know something specific about the company, that way you can answer with something like,“I want to be a part of an organization that last year alone invested $1.4 million in the research and development of eco-friendly equipment.”

Tell me about the worst boss you ever had. As tempting as it may be to badmouth the last jerk you worked for, take the high road – DON’T vent any past frustrations. Tell the interviewer, “While none of my past bosses were awful, there are some who taught me more than others did. Like the value of patience and respect for my colleagues.” You’ll get your point across without looking petty and that’s a big gold star for any future employee.

Home Heart Care

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to

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And, it’s all close to home.

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37

Celebrating tenacity, strength and determination to build a better life, Coming to America tells the story of local residents who left their native country to make a new home in the United States. Watch for a new story each issue.

To nominate someone for this series, send a brief description to: edit@thriveswla.com

by Erin K. Cormier

Pepe Vasquez: Making good on a one-way ticket In November 1983, Jose Antonio “Pepe” Vasquez, a member of the Peruvian Merchant Marine Academy, was docked in Lake Charles to pick up a load of rice bound for Guatemala when he met the man who would change his life.

Vasquez considers it divine intervention – one of many fortunate occurrences that would lead him from Lima, Peru, to south Louisiana.

Although the bulk of Peruvians live in poverty, Vasquez, whose father died when he was a boy, was fortunate to have a modest childhood in Peru as the son of a schoolteacher. After the death of his father, the family got involved in the bakery business to earn more money; he and his five siblings would often work until bedtime. Even at a young age, Vasquez showed signs of a creative and entrepreneurial spirit – in high school, he designed and sold his own Christmas cards to make extra money, a trade that he took with him to the Academy.

Vasquez knew that his determination for self-made success was well-suited for the bustling cities of the United States, rather than Lima, where many citizens in the growing metropolis lived in shantytowns and the line between rich and poor was clear. Whereas Lima was laid-back and stagnant, America was driven and progressive. It was, in Vasquez’s mind, the ideal place.

When Vasquez’s boat docked in Lake Charles in 1983, his dream was strong, but intangible. Until he met Bill Leonard.

When the Guatemala-bound ship berthed in Lake Charles, Vasquez was one of about 20 young South American cadets on board and was scheduled to graduate from the academy in December. Lake Charles was not a typical port-of-call; usually, the ships docked in Houston, New Orleans or Miami.

The cadets would be in Lake Charles for several days, so Leonard, director of the Seamen’s Center, offered to take them to Mass that Sunday and to an air show. During the show, Leonard asked Vasquez what he planned to do after graduation.

“I told him I wanted to come back to the States to go to school. I had jobs waiting for me in Peru, but that’s not what I wanted. Ever since I first stepped foot in this country, I knew this was where I wanted to be,” Vasquez said.“Mr. Leonard asked if I had ever heard of McNeese State University.”

Leonard took Vasquez to McNeese and arranged for him to meet with the registrar, who promptly registered him for spring classes. Afterward, Leonard took Vasquez to meet his wife, Maria.

“Mr. Leonard asked me where I was going to live now that I was registered at McNeese. I said I didn’t know, I would probably live in the dorms. He said, ‘No, you won’t. You’ll live here with me and Maria,’” Vasquez said.“He was a wonderful man.”

Vasquez returned home for graduation in Peru, where he broke the news to his heart-broken mother and accepted a one-way ticket to Houston as a gift from his Uncle Luis Alberto, another influential figure in his life.“He said, ‘I am giving you a one-way ticket because I know you’re not coming back,’” Vasquez said.

Pepe at his 25th year reunion with classmates in Lima-Peru maritime Academy (July 12, 2008). Most of them are Ship Captains and Chief Engineers.

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Once he was settled in the Leonards’ home to begin his American journey, Vasquez never looked back. It wasn’t in his nature to second-guess himself, and his stubborn determination refused to allow for failure. To make money for his first year, he knocked on doors in the Leonards’ Oak Park neighborhood and offered to paint houses. After his brief stint has a selfmade house painter, he rode his bicycle to Chez Oca, an upscale restaurant near the Racquet Club, to see if the Spanish-speaking owner needed any

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2009

after a brief run as a financial analyst at Boeing, Vasquez was offered a job

by Art Hollins, then president of First National Bank and a regular Chez Oca customer. Vasquez soon found himself getting trained and certified. After First National Bank was bought by Bank One, Cameron State Bank President Roy Raftery Jr. asked Vasquez to lead CSB’s new investments division.

That was nearly 20 years ago. Today, Vasquez is president and chief operating officer of Mallard Investments, the brokerage arm of Cameron State Bank.

Many of his clients are former Chez Oca customers. Vasquez has worked diligently to provide clients of Mallard Investments with unsurpassed personal service. This year, Mallard Investments celebrates its 10th anniversary.

Pepe (third from the left) at a recent family reunion with his Mom and brothers and sisters, July 2008, Miraflores-Peru

help. He was hired as a busboy and eventually worked his way up to head waiter, putting in 40 to 60 hours a week while attending school.

At Chez Oca, Vasquez met bank presidents, Boeing executives, and countless other business professionals. He served them dinner, suggested fine wines, and shared his story. Some of them, knowing that he was a finance and economics student, offered him jobs. During this period, banks were becoming increasingly involved in financial services, such as investing, and

“One of my clients is Linda Finley, the woman who registered me for my classes at McNeese. She has been with me from the beginning, even when I had no experience, and has stayed with me ever since,” Vasquez said.“I never once looked back, ever since that day in 1983 when I met Bill Leonard. I think it’s because of all the people who helped me along the way. So many people were behind me, even when I felt like a foreigner. I have no regrets.”

On Vasquez’s desk are photos of his wife, three children, and the soccer teams he coaches. In a desk drawer is a photo of Bill Leonard, who died in 1994.

“I think about him often,” Vasquez said.“Of all the cadets on the ship, he took an interest in me. It’s amazing how one person can change someone’s life.

It’s just like that saying, ‘To the world you may be just one person, but to one person, you may be the world.’”

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39

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February 2009

Exercise

Essential During Sluggish Economy W

ith many people becoming more conscious of their money in light of the tightening economy, they are taking a closer look at tightening their own personal spending habits.

Whether it’s brown-bagging lunch instead of eating out or opting for do-it-yourself manicures instead of a weekly appointment, everything is worth scrutinizing to save money. Health experts agree, though, that cutting back on habits that promote fitness shouldn’t be at the top of the chop list.

In some cases, making healthy choices may cost a little more. Paying for a gym membership or buying healthy food instead of junk food may mean more money up front, but will result in lower medical bills down the road.“Consider it a smart investment,” said Robert Kingham, director of Dynamic Dimensions. “There are a lot of ways to exercise. It definitely doesn’t require a gym membership, but, time after time, people who choose to utilize a gym with personal trainers and services like a swimming pool, group fitness classes, on-site child care and nutrition education – these people have a much higher chance of reaching their fitness goals and living a healthy life. Knowing that you can exercise regularly no matter what the weather is outside and that you can do it in a safe environment with personal trainers available if you have a question or

Cutting back on frivolous spending is wise; but Kingham reminds us that regular exercise is not frivolous.

February 2009

ne Fisher

by Christi

concern helps keep you consistent; and that’s the key to getting and staying healthy,” Kingham said.

The journal Health Affairs has published a report noting that chronic illness accounts for 75% of all health expenses. Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce the risk for major health concerns such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke and cancer.

To prove that point, one study by a major insurance group found that people who went to the gym at least eight times a month had significantly lower health care costs than those who did not. And, a report by the American Institute for Cancer Research found that obesity plays a key role in increasing the risk for many cancers, including breast cancer, by as much as 60%.

Let’s face it: during these rocky economic times, stress levels increase. Thanks to the internet, all-day news networks, and newspapers, bad news spreads quickly. Anxiety levels are reaching a level not seen since World World II. Processing the grim news day after day is difficult. As people know, stress negatively affects health. Research shows that people who exercise regularly have less extreme physiological responses when under pressure than those who do not. “Healthy individuals are able to handle the long-term effects of stress without suffering as many health problems,” explained Kingham.

Cutting back on frivolous spending is wise; but Kingham reminds us that regular exercise is not frivolous. “Investing in your health by exercising and eating healthy foods will boost your body’s immune system, protect you from getting as many colds and viruses which means fewer trips to the doctor’s office. You’ll have more self-esteem and feel more in control which is a key to getting through these difficult times.”

He advises people to look at their habits. “Vegging out in front of the TV, listening to the continuous cycle of bad news and munching on potato chips isn’t doing you any good.”

The research is clear: don’t skimp on health. Continue exercising, choosing healthy foods and maintaining habits that promote a well-rounded, balanced lifestyle.

For more information about services available at Dynamic Dimensions, call the Sulphur location at 527-5459; in Moss Bluff, call 855-7708. Also, more information is available at www.wcch.com.

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41

Staying Involved Has No Age Restrictions

by Christine Fisher

Eta Bergeron’s calendar is busier than some people half her age. At age 84, she volunteers at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital, Calcasieu Council on Aging, the American Legion, the VFW, Retired Senior Volunteer Program and with AARP.

Eta and Melvern Bergeron She says the activities keep her involved and in touch. “I’ve always been busy and that’s the way I like it! Volunteering helps me see people I wouldn’t see otherwise. It’s good to keep up with friends and people in the community.”

She and her husband, Melvern, celebrated their 60th anniversary

New Year’s Eve. They’ve set a pattern of being busy; she is a former hairdresser and never missed a day of work in over 55 years. Melvern worked with Gulf States for over 30 years. They both say that an active life is the best kind. Eta is recuperating from a back problem, but will be back to her full schedule very soon.

Although the Bergeron’s are an exception, some people find the adjustment from working to retirement to be more difficult than they thought it would be. Work no longer forces individuals to stay involved with projects, people, or learning new things. It’s a welcome relief to most, but after a while, many people find it takes effort to remain connected. “This is where the effort put forth will pay off by keeping the mind clear and active. It takes initiative to continue pushing one’s self to keep learning, but that’s when it’s the most critical,” says Jody George, MD, family medicine specialist and medical staff member of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital. “The brain needs to be stimulated with conversations and activities. It helps promote a sense of belonging and feeling included.”

In addition to the Bergeron’s, there are about 26 million other seniors who volunteer regularly and they’ve become a strong support in the nation’s workforce. This army of volunteers gives an average of 4.4

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February 2009

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Eta is looking forward to resuming her normal schedule once her back is better, and Dr. George says that’s the reason people should stay involved. “Regular activities give a sense of purpose. We know people are counting on us so we try to maintain a schedule; it’s a reason to get out of bed and get busy. That rhythm in life is what keeps us functioning on a normal, healthy path,” he explained.

For Eta and Melvern, volunteering is their key to staying in touch.

“We’d miss all the news happening around us if we didn’t show up for our shifts!” Eta said.

Showing up for her shift is what Stella Huff, age 70, has been doing for quite a while. She’s been a full-time LPN at Jennings American Legion Hospital for 42 years. “If you don’t work, you’ll croak!” she explained. “I just get up and go every morning. I don’t think about retiring because work keeps me busy and I enjoy meeting different people. I still take care of my yard work; the activity keeps me healthy and involved.”

Stella Huff, LPN Another nurse at the Jennings Hospital is not letting age slow her down. Elma Davidson is 77, works part-time, and has been with the hospital since 1994. “She is extremely dependable, knowledgeable, and a true asset to our hospital,” said Ruth Carnes, Human Resource Director. “She likes to continue working to keep busy and help people.”

Contributing to society, whether it’s through volunteering or continuing to work, is the key to vitality in older adults. It can help ward off one of the most common mental illnesses: depression.

Stella explained that her job can be difficult when patients don’t make it or their outcome isn’t as positive as they’d hoped for. “I’ve learned that things take time. Difficulties get easier to deal with after a while if you take things day-by-day,” she said. “That’s been one of the things that helps me get to work every day; just dealing with one day at a time.”

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Of the nearly 35 million Americans over age 65, an estimated two million have a depressive illness. Volunteering or continuing to work gives a sense of accomplishment, boosting psychological well-being and contributing to higher self-esteem.

Staying connected in activities and socialization is one of the best ways to keep the brain active. “Research is showing that ‘old dogs’ can indeed learn new tricks,” said Dr. George. “An environment that includes interaction with others, learning new things, and getting out of the house contributes to the ongoing growth of new brain cells in adults, no matter what age.” Staying connected through activities and commitments is an innate human need that has no age limits.

833 Hodges St., Lake Charles (337) 433-4357 • 1-800-433-0701 • www.samaritanswla.org

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Most insurance accepted.

February 2009

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Set the Mood Without Setting a Fire Tips for Candle Caution

by Kristy Armand

If your plans for a romantic Valentine’s Day or any special occasion involve candles, it’s a good idea to shine some light on the possible risks and precautions ahead of time.

Candles today have come a long way from the days they were used simply as a light source. They have become such a popular household accessory that there is one for every occasion, mood, and fragrance imaginable. But, Joni Fontenot, spokesperson for the Safety Council of Southwest Louisiana, says one that hasn’t changed over the centuries is the risk of fire that accompanies the use of candles.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, residential fires caused by candles have more than doubled over the past decade, and the National Fire Incident Reporting System estimates that nearly 85 percent of candle fires were caused by consumer misuse.

Fontenot says in addition to being a fire hazard, improperly used candles can generate a significant amount of soot. This soot can damage the walls, floors and ceilings of your home as well as your personal belongings.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that most candle fires were caused by combustibles being too close to the candle.“The next most common cause of candle fires was due to the candle falling over or being knocked over by wind, doors, children or pets,” says Fontenot.

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The Safety Council offers the following recommendations for safe candle usage:

• Never leave a burning candle unattended • Never place a burning candle near something that can catch fire, especially furniture, drapes, bedding, carpets, books, paper, flammable decorations, etc.

• Keep burning candles out of the reach of children or pets • Keep candles away from drafts and vents • Trim wicks to 1/4 of an inch prior to each use. Long or crooked wicks cause uneven burning and dripping • Do not burn a candle for longer than the manufacturer recommends (normally no more than four hours at a time) • Always use containers that have been made for candle usage. The holder should be heat resistant, sturdy and large enough to contain any drips or melted wax • Keep candles at least three inches apart so they don’t melt one another, or create their own drafts that will cause improper burning • Discontinue use of a container candle when one-half inch of wax remains • Keep matches, wick trimmings and foreign objects out of the candle wax • Never use a candle as light when you go into a closet to look for things • Extinguish taper or pillar candles when they get within two inches of their holders • One of the safest ways to extinguish a candle is to use a candle snuffer, which helps prevent hot wax from spattering.

• Do not extinguish candles with water, which can cause the hot wax to spatter and can cause glass containers to break

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2009

The Mardi Gras Color Pallet The official colors for Mardi Gras are purple, green and gold. According to legend, these colors were selected by the Grand Duke Alexis Romaoff of Russia when he visited New Orleans in 1872. The Grand Duke, in town to woo an actress, was given the honor by the Krewe of Rex. Purple was meant to symbolize justice, green symbolized faith and gold stood for power.

Have you ever noticed that LSU’s colors had Mardi Gras spirit? That’s because shops had an abundance of purple and gold Mardi Gras fabric at the same time that LSU was choosing its school colors, so the school stocked up. Tulane, also in the market for an official school color, was outpaced for the purple and gold.

They were left with green.

“Reader’s Choice Award for Best Hospice” – The Beaumont Enterprise

Harbor Hospice is a compassionate, patient-centered approach to medical care and support for people at the end of life and their families. It’s care focused on maintaining dignity, increasing quality of life, and providing comfort, including pain and symptom control. Harbor Hospice recognizes that every person’s experience will be different and the hospice team creates a plan of care according to the individual needs and wishes of each patient.

Harbor Hospice staff members are available at all times, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It is the mission of Harbor Hospice staff to walk side-by-side with patients and offer support, not only for any physical symptoms, but for emotional and spiritual needs, as well. This support extends to family members, and Harbor Hospice helps them cope with their own unique emotional and spiritual concerns.

Although the primary focus of Harbor Hospice is home care, there are times when caring for a loved one at home is simply not possible. When symptoms cannot be managed at home, or when families are having difficulty coping, Harbor Hospice of Lake Charles offers a wonderful alternative – The Harbor Hospice House.

The Harbor Hospice House is a state-of-the-art in-patient facility designed with patient care and family needs in mind. Thirty private rooms offer hospice patients and their families all the comforts of home while providing round-the-clock, expert medical care.

We look forward to being of service to the community for many years to come as their Hospice care preferred provider.

www.harborhospice.com LAKE CHARLES 2501 E. Prien Lake Road 337.562.8620

February 2009

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45

Health Hazards for

Twenty-Somethings

by Christine Fisher

Parents who are breathing a sigh of relief for surviving their child’s turbulent teen years should be warned: the twenty-something years are no picnic.

Of course, by that time, parents will, and should, step back and allow their young adult the opportunity to learn from their own mistakes and celebrate their own victories. Ignoring health concerns is not a good habit to fall into; unfortunately, it happens more than it should.

As far as the health arena is concerned, the years between 18 and 25 show significant health risks. When the typical feeling of invincibility is combined with risky behavior like drugs or alcohol, it can lead to future health concerns.

Also, many young adults are dropped from their parents’ health insurance, but haven’t signed up for their own health coverage, leaving them in the ever-widening gap of the uninsured. The domino affect results in not getting routine wellness screenings, dental check ups and going without medications, at times, in order to save money.

“Ignoring health problems won’t make them go away, as we know; it only makes them worse,” said Jason Ramm, MD, family medicine physician. “Health is not usually at the top of the list on most young adults’ priorities. Without anyone to prod them to get enough sleep, eat nutritious meals and exercise, it’s easy to fall into unhealthy habits.” The early adult years give the first taste of real independence and it’s easy to ignore guidance from parents and teachers on healthy behavior.

ups and understand that their health care is on their shoulders now,” said Dr. Ramm.

“Because most young adults feel as if they will live forever, they don’t take into account that their behavior today impacts their health tomorrow,” said Dr. Ramm. “As they age into their late twenties and thirties, they will find that it may be more difficult than they thought to correct some of their poor health habits, such as smoking, overeating, or not getting enough sleep.”

most young adults feel “asBecause if they will live forever, they don’t take into account that their behavior today impacts their health tomorrow. – Jason Ramm, MD

”

A large study recently released results showing the significant health risks facing today’s young adults. The study identified the following areas of concern: • Obesity • Poor diet • Lack of regular exercise • Lack of access to health insurance coverage • Increase in smoking • Sexually transmitted disease • Binge drinking The research was gathered from more than 14,000 teenagers of a variety of ethnic, social and economic backgrounds, and spanned several years beginning when the participants were in their early teens and are now entering their adult years.

The National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health study was funded by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

“When we think of health concerns, we don’t usually consider the years of young adulthood, but this study brings to light the fact that this age group faces many significant health risks, and may slip through the cracks, until they establish their own relationship with a family doctor, get regular check-

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February 2009

Obesity is on the rise, according to the study. Due to the convenience of fast food, busy schedules and lack of exercise, today’s young adult is more likely than ever to be obese. This sets them on a path of bad habits that can be difficult, but not impossible, to break. They may find that eating whatever they wanted in their twenties doesn’t work with a thirty-something metabolism.

Young adults have a lot on their plates as they step into the world of independence. Milestones, such as completion of schooling, steady employment and living apart from family are road markers along the way. Once these are accomplished, the individual is well on their way to achieving true independence.

Facing these achievements, it is understandable that health gets put on a shelf during these times. By mid- to late-twenties, most young adults have stabilized and are able to establish a health care routine that works for them. This is usually due to the availability of health insurance through their job. Marriage and parenthood further cement the need for a stable lifestyle and health benefits.

Today’s trend to settle down in a career/marriage/parenthood in one’s thirties means that the carefree days of youth are stretching to between six to ten years.

If health care needs are ignored for that length of time, there may be some consequences that will have a more lasting effect.

The path to adulthood has many twists and turns. It can be difficult to juggle all of the responsibilities of life. That’s why these years are filled with ups and downs, as individuals learn how to meet the demands and their own independence and ability to handle problems becomes more defined.

“If more young adults were aware of how their current behavior will impact their future quality of life, it might give them more of an incentive to take care of their health care needs,” said Dr. Ramm. Obviously, a young adult most likely won’t have as many health concerns as an older person, but getting started on the right track with nutrition, fitness and regular checkups will pay off in future years.

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47

by Kristy Armand

Orthodontics Provide Best Option for Bad Bites

Ironically, one of the most common dental disorders is also the most neglected. Your bite, the way the teeth fit together when the jaw closes and chews, has a major impact on the long-term health of your teeth.

“Many people’s teeth have some irregularity, from slight crowding to uneven spacing. The technical name for this is ‘malocclusion,’ but this is commonly called a ‘bad bite.’” explains Craig Crawford, DDS, with Crawford Orthodontics. “Certain irregularities can cause cosmetic concerns, as well as functional problems, such as difficulty chewing or talking. You may have inherited a bite irregularity, but not all bite problems are genetic.”

Other factors can contribute to the development of bite problems.

One of these is trauma. When teeth are fractured or knocked out and then replaced, they may fuse with the bone that surrounds them. If this happens in a growing child, Dr. Crawford says the teeth will not be able to line up properly in the jaw, causing an irregular bite.

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If a primary – baby – tooth is lost too early, the permanent tooth loses its guide and can come into the mouth incorrectly. “In some cases, the permanent teeth may be crowded, or they may come in only partially,” says Dr. Crawford. “The teeth next to the primary tooth that was lost too early can also move or tilt into the space left by the missing tooth and prevent the permanent tooth from coming in.”

He adds that prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use can cause a bite irregularity, such as a pronounced protrusion of the upper teeth over your lower teeth. A tongue-thrusting habit when you swallow can cause a similar problem.

Incorrect bites are grouped into categories. Common bite irregularities include: Crowding: If there is not enough room for the teeth, if the teeth are unusually large compared to the size of the dental arch, or if the jaw is narrower than it should be, permanent teeth may not have enough space to move into the right position.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2009

Certain irregularities can “ cause cosmetic concerns, as well as functional problems, such as difficulty chewing or talking.

– Craig Crawford, DDS

”

Crossbite: The upper teeth seat significantly inside or outside the lower teeth. A crossbite often requires orthodontic treatment because this problem can make it difficult to bite or chew.

Deep overbite: This occurs when the upper front teeth overlap excessively over the lower teeth. In some cases, the biting edges of the upper teeth touch the lower front gum tissue.

Underbite: A crossbite of the front teeth is commonly referred to as an underbite where the lower teeth are ahead of the upper teeth.

Open bite: If your upper and lower front teeth don’t meet when you bite down, this is referred to as an open bite. Because the front teeth don’t share equally in the biting force, the back teeth may be subjected to too much pressure. This makes chewing less efficient and can lead to premature wear of the back teeth.

Spacing problems: Some people have missing teeth or unusually small teeth compared to the size of their dental arch.

If the size of the jaw is normal, this can result in large spaces between the teeth.

Dr. Crawford says everyone has a slightly different bite, so orthodontic treatment techniques vary. Braces, the most common approach, help to move the teeth slowly by applying precise amounts of light pressure over a long period of time. Most orthodontic treatments occur in two phases. The active phase involves the use of braces or other appliances to move the teeth into proper alignment and correct the bite, and the retention phase involves the use of a retainer to hold the teeth in their new position for the long term. In addition to braces, orthodontists sometimes use special appliances to direct the growth of the jaw in young children “The main reason people come in for bite problems is for cosmetic concerns,” says Dr. Crawford. “And while an improper bite can have a negative impact on your appearance, it’s important to realize that bite problems can lead to other oral dental problems. An improper bite causes difficulty chewing and can lead to more cavities in people with crowded teeth and early loss of teeth. Treatment of these bite irregularities can not only improve your appearance, but your overall oral health as well.”

February 2009

Replace Pain with Improved Mobility From combing your hair to hugging a friend to shrugging off disappointments, shoulders are used in so many ways. That’s why you can’t ignore shoulder pain. And now you don’t have to.

West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital is proud to offer the area’s most innovative and experienced shoulder surgery options – right here in Southwest Louisiana. If you’ve been told you have a rotator cuff tear or need to travel outside the area for reverse shoulder replacement, look closer to home. The expertise you need is right here at WCCH.

Geoffrey Collins, MD, Orthopaedic Surgeon, has 11 years of experience in total shoulder replacement and is the only Orthopaedist in the region using reverse shoulder technology. Under his direction, the orthopaedic surgery team at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital can help you return to pain-free movement.

If things in your life are becoming increasingly out of reach due to shoulder pain, call Dr. Collins for an appointment today at 626-2529. It could be the best move you’ll ever make.

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www.wcch.com www.thriveswla.com

49

Turner Achieves Board Certification in CCT

Staff

Physicians

Nurses

Michael C. Turner, MD, of Lake Charles recently received the distinction of being a “Diplomate of the Certification Board of Computed Tomography.”

Dr. Turner is among the first 715 physicians to be certified in Cardiovascular Computed Tomography (CCT).

CCT, or cardiac CT, is a relatively new medical innovation that is emerging as integral piece of Michael C. Turner, MD cardiovascular medicine. Dr. Turner, who throughout his career has continually brought cutting edge medical practices to Southwest Louisiana, has been utilizing this tool since January 2006.

A CCT is a scan that enables cardiologists to view all angles of the heart and vascular system. It is a noninvasive medical imaging method used mostly for evaluating coronary and pulmonary arteries and testing for peripheral vascular disease and pulmonary embolism. A cardiac CT produces three-dimensional images of sections of the heart and vascular system through a series of two-dimensional x-ray images produced from a single 360-degree rotation around the body.

Dr. Turner is one of a group of board-certified cardiologists that form Cardiovascular Specialists of Southwest Louisiana.

Cascio Joins Orthopaedic Specialists

One of the finest Outpatient Day Surgery centers in the nation has been right here in the Lake Area for over 30 years.

With our state-of-the-art facilities and our experienced, friendly staff, it’s no wonder we’re known as the comfortable surgical alternative that’s affordable as well.

Brett M. Cascio, MD, an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist whose practice focuses primarily on knee, shoulder, and hip injuries, recently joined Drs. Nathan Cohen, David Drez, Jr., Scott Hofer and Dennis Walker with Orthopaedic Specialists, as well as the staff of Lake Charles Memorial Hospital.

A New Orleans native, Dr. Cascio is a graduate of Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, and Brett M. Cascio, MD Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans. He completed his internship and residency at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland, and his fellowship at the SteadmanHawkins Clinic in Vail, Colorado, where he participated in the care of the U.S. Ski, Colorado Rockies baseball, and Denver Bronco’s football teams.

Dr. Tomek Named Executive Committee Chair

2100 LAKE STREET, LAKE CHARLES (337) 436-6941 • 1-800-782-0336 50

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Barbara Tomek, MD

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

Barbara Tomek, MD, has been appointed Chairman of the Executive Committee for Lake Charles Medical and Surgical Clinic for 2009. Dr. Tomek is a board certified radiologist with over 20 years of practice experience. She has been with The Clinic for 5 years and also serves as the Medical Director for Clinic Imaging.

The Clinic is the area’s largest multi-specialty medical group with 26 physicians and 8 office locations.

February 2009

Buying, Consider Selling Before

by Christine Fisher

B

efore you sign on the dotted line to buy your dream home, have you thought about how easy it will be to sell it? It may seem strange, but the best time to consider the resale value of a home is before you buy it. At some point, most home buyers will eventually become home sellers.

Choosing a home that will meet your needs, as well as one that could meet many other families’ needs, is just smart investing, says Dan Flavin, broker with Flavin Realty.

“Whatever flaw you’re willing to overlook now may become a hindrance years from now when you need to sell the house,” he explained. “By choosing a house wisely, you can avoid some of the common pitfalls people face when they put the ‘For Sale’ sign in the yard.”

Of course, location is first on the list. “You might not mind living near a business, or in a high-traffic area, but chances are, others will. It doesn’t make the home impossible to sell, but it will probably eliminate a portion of potential buyers,” Flavin explained.

Other drawbacks relating to location include general neighborhood deterioration.

“If you notice several homes up for sale and homes that haven’t been kept in good condition, chances are the neighborhood is going through a transition. It may turn out fine in a few years, but it’s a risk. If you want to play it safe, you can keep tabs on the area for several months to see if you notice any improvement; or you may just want to look elsewhere.”

Landscaping may seem like a great investment, and it is – for the homeowner. Heavy landscaping is rarely a good investment when trying to recoup money. Planting is personal. While you may like flowering bushes, people with allergies won’t give the property a second look. Smart landscaping that does translate into cash during a sale includes traditional bushes, some seasonal flowers and healthy grass; doing too much doesn’t convert into any additional dollars when it’s time to sell.

Speaking of the lawn, the shape of the area is important. Lots that have a significant slope, have a drainage ditch, or are oddly shaped can be difficult to sell. “Our agents work with homeowners to improve things that might detract potential buyers. In cases where the lot may be a negative, we might suggest adding a feature that would visually reshape the yard, such as an outdoor sitting area or a small fountain.

There are many things that can be done for relatively low cost that will add dollars to the resale value,” he said. “We’ve worked with homeowners who had unusual situations and helped them stage the area, resulting in a sale that happened within a few days, rather than months.”

After considering location and lawn, the house is truly the main focus affecting a sale.

Most potential buyers are looking for homes with at least 3 bedrooms and 2 baths.

“If you’re buying a home with several more bedrooms and baths than that keep in mind it won’t change your selling price significantly,” said Flavin.

The layout of the house is one of the most critical factors in choosing a home that will appeal to the majority of people. Homes with an open floor plan tend to sell the quickest. When the kitchen, living and dining area flow together, it’s more visually appealing than a home that has distinct rooms for these three areas. Entertaining is easier when the traffic flow is open and there is space for people to gather without February 2009

feeling confined. The exception to this is for historic homes that continue to maintain their appeal because of their legacy.

The utility areas of the home can garner a quick ‘yes’ or ‘no’ vote in the mind of a potential buyer. “If the laundry room is in the garage or the first room you enter when coming through the back door, it’s a turn-off. People want a pleasing entry into their home, even when it’s the side or back entrance. Walking into a pile of dirty clothes isn’t appealing,” Flavin said. “The laundry room shouldn’t be an eyesore, but it should be conveniently located. And, there should be adequate closet space, including a linen closet. If you’re looking to sell a home that doesn’t have a linen closet, for example, you might want to buy an armoire to store sheets, towels, etc. Any time you can show a potential buyer a solution for a problem, you are highlighting the positive aspects of the home.”

Swimming pools are a feature that can detract from a quick sale. Because of safety issues and the fact that not everyone desires to have a swimming pool, if you choose to buy a home with a pool, do so for your own enjoyment knowing that it won’t increase the value of the home.

“A home is a significant investment. It should meet your needs and give you a sense of satisfaction,” said Flavin. “If you choose to buy a home that’s quirky or has a unique style, keep in mind it may be more difficult to sell later on. But, real estate agents are savvy when it comes to focusing potential buyers on the features of a home; so if you work with a good agent, they can help highlight the benefits.”

Buying a home with an eye toward selling it in the future can help the investment pay off. For more information about selling a home, call Flavin Realty at 478-8530 or visit www.flavinrealty.com.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

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Navigating Through

Rough Times

by Christine Fisher

No one is impervious to difficult times. No matter how many rough patches people go through, there seems to always be potholes or roadblocks up ahead.

“Some people feel as though they’ve been through so many adverse times that surely they must be immune to them,” said Scott Riviere, MS, local life coach and founder of Success Coaching. Knowing what to do, how to react or whether to react at all during those difficult times can help people navigate through them.“Disappointment, regret, feeling left out or overlooked happens to all of us. The key is to work through it, and during the difficult time, hang on to what you know is true and right,” Riviere said.

A Chinese proverb says,“If the old doesn’t go, the new cannot come.” When disappointing things happen, many people have found it helpful to consider what good might come out of the dark times. Managing emotions is vital to overcoming trouble, explained Riviere. “People who keep their focus on working through the difficult times and overcoming them usually find joy and peace much faster than the people who continue to question and try to understand why it happened.”

Many people believe that it’s essential to know the roots of the problem before they can change.

But, understanding does not always create change.

“Sometimes, people can suffer from ‘paralysis of analysis!’ They spend too much analyzing and not enough time improving,” he said.

Riviere offers these tips for getting through the rough patches in life: Remember you’re not a victim. Stop thinking,“why me?” and begin to take control of your thoughts. Focus on things you can change and gradually let go of the things you cannot change. It’s useless to worry about them, if you have no control over them. Obviously, that’s easier said than done; but with practice and time, results will convince you it’s worth the effort.

Stay focused. It’s human nature to magnify problems until they seem bigger than life. Security seems far away when you feel alone and you’re not sure which way to turn. During these times, work on calming down and seek clarity in the situation. Try to describe the circumstances in one question or statement. Then, you can build on that to form a plan of how to get through it. The biggest threat to finding a solution is when emotions get out of hand and you allow doubt and distrust to enter the picture.

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February 2009

Is there a lesson here? Life is a continuous journey of ups and down. For every high, there is a low. It’s in the hard times that we learn valuable lessons. If the lesson isn’t learned the first time, guess what? We usually repeat until it is learned.

Practice gratitude. No matter who you are or what circumstances you are facing, there is almost always someone worse off than you. It’s not about settling for what you have and never trying to improve; but, it’s about realizing the good things that exist right now in your life, and approaching life with thankfulness.

Every day is another step forward. Do you feel as though you are on a never-ending journey? It helps to realize that every step you take brings you closer to the goal. Continuing day-by-day is how dreams are realized; those little steps add up. Most successful people have triumphed over their failures through sheer determination.

Understanding that no one actually “has it all together”, and that we all are trying to find our way through difficult circumstances at one time or another helps when times seem especially tough. “The next time you feel alone and overwhelmed, remember to stay focused on the truth,” said Riviere.

Today is a new day. The past is not the present. If you feel stuck in a rut, doing the same thing over and over will just give the same results. Challenge yourself to look at things differently, so you can get different results. A little shift in perspective may be all that’s needed.

For more information about life coaching, call Riviere with Success Coaching at 310-1125.

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Area Fundraisers Announced Women’s Shelter

The Calcasieu Women’s Shelter’s annual Gems & Stems fundraiser will take place on Friday, February 13, at Treasures of Marilyn’s in Lake Charles. This innovative event will benefit both the Calcasieu Women’s Shelter and Rape Crisis Outreach.

First Free to Breathe Lung Cancer Research Fundraiser

The first Free to Breathe 5K run/walk in Southwest Louisiana, hosted by the Southwest Louisiana Lung Cancer Group Partnership, will begin at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, March 14, at First United Methodist Church, 812 Kirkman Street. Registration begins at 7 a.m.

Attendees are able to purchase a beverage in stemware, which will have a velvet pouch attached. Inside this pouch is a gem.

Every gem will be of “mountable” quality, but many of the pouches will contain precious and semi-precious stones, making the event a game of chance.

In addition to the sale of “gems and stems,” the event will also include a silent auction, dinner and music by Gervis Guidry and John Haley.

Gems & Stems provides much needed funding to provide for the Shelter and programs in our community that address domestic violence and sexual assault. Cameron State Bank is the Dazzling Diamond sponsor and FOX 29 is the gem sponsor. Cocktails and the unveiling of the Silent Auction items begin at 6:30 p.m., with dinner and music set to begin at 7:15 p.m.

Tickets are on sale now for $50.00 per person. Cocktail attire is requested. Contact the Shelter to purchase individual tickets or tables at 436-4552 or (800) 223-8066.

If you cannot make the event, but you would like to make a donation to The Calcasieu Women’s Shelter & Rape Crisis Outreach, please mail your tax deductible donation to: PO Box 276, Lake Charles, LA 70602.

Black Tie Affair to Benefit Calcasieu Community Clinic

The Calcasieu Medical Society Foundation has announced plans for the 2009 Black Tie Affair. This year’s event will take place on March 21 at 6:00 pm at L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort. Entertainment will be provided by Vince Vance and the Valiants. The event includes dinner, dancing and a silent auction.

Proceeds will benefit the National Lung Partnership’s vital lung cancer research, public awareness, and education programs.

The National Lung Cancer Partnership is a group of leading doctors, researchers, patient advocates, and lung cancer survivors dedicated to raising public awareness of the disease and generating funding for lung cancer research.

Lung cancer is the leading cancer killer of women and men in the US, taking more lives than breast, prostate, and colon cancers combined, yet federal research funding for lung cancer lags behind many other common cancers and common diseases, according to the National Lung Partnership. In 2006, the National Cancer Institute estimated that it spent only $1,638 per lung cancer death, compared to $13,519 per breast cancer death and $11,298 per prostate cancer death.

About 85 percent of the 213,000 people diagnosed with lung cancer each year in the U.S. will die within five years of their diagnosis, according to the NLP. Roughly 10 to 15 percent of lung cancer patients are non-smokers.

According to a study by the American Cancer Society, the incidence of lung cancer among lifelong non-smokers was about equal to that of brain and other nervous system cancers.

The 5K run and one mile walk will travel through Lake Charles’ historic garden district. Prizes will be awarded to an overall winner and top male and female finishers in various age brackets. Registration cost is $15 on or before March 7, and $20 on the day of the event. Corporate sponsors are also needed for the fundraiser, as well as walking teams from area businesses and civic groups.

For more information on the event or for sponsorship opportunities, visit www. freetobreathe.org or call 540-3952.

Proceeds from the Black Tie Affair this year will benefit the Calcasieu Community Clinic, a not-for-profit organization that provides free quality health care to the low income, working but uninsured residents in the five-parish area. After eight years of operation, the clinic has provided over $3.3 million in medical services and pharmaceuticals to the community. Exams and medications are provided on site. Lab tests, mammograms, and specialized services, not available at the clinic, are referred out. This is all done at no charge to the patient. The ultimate goal is to expand the clinic into a larger facility, complete with dental facilities, to better meet the needs of our working uninsured, which currently consist of 17 percent of our local population.

Call the 494-3095 for additional information regarding event sponsorship or to purchase tickets.

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February 2009

February 2009 Events Friday, February 6: Dental Day Join Dr. Bryan Manning by our “Big Mouth” exhibit at 4 p.m. as he presents an informative program on dental health. This is a great opportunity for parents to educate their children on proper dental hygiene and encourage them to take care of their teeth. Goodie bags included!

Friday, February 13: Valentine’s Day Workshop Create your own Valentine’s Day Card. The workshop is free of charge for museum members. Non-members will be charged $1.00 per child.

Classes are limited to 15 children and begin at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

melting substances at different temperatures. Do you know what makes chocolate melt? You will have a chance to make your own sun-catcher with melted crayons!

Monday, February 23: Mardi Gras Workshop Join us in ArtSpace to weave a beautiful Mardi Gras place mat! The workshop is free of charge for museum members. Non-members will be charged $1.00 per child. Classes are limited to 15 children and begin at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Tuesday, February 24: Closed for Mardi Gras

Saturday, February 14: Sasol’s Second Saturday Science Show “Melting with Love” At 11 a.m., Sasol employees will perform demonstrations related to

February 2009

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Baseball Diamond to the Treatment Room From the

By Erin K. Cormier In 2002, Ran Prince was a Southland Conference All-Star for the McNeese State University Cowboys’ baseball team. As a hitter and catcher for the Cowboys from 2000-2003, he not only endured his share of defeats and wins, he also endured his fair share of injuries, mostly to his shoulder and back.

Prince knew his career in baseball would likely come to an end with graduation in 2003, so during his time at McNeese, he made sure that he would be able to utilize his love of sports in another way – not from the baseball diamond or the dugout, but from treatment tables and mobility machines. He earned a degree in exercise science from McNeese and a doctorate in physical therapy from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in St. Augustine, Fla. “I was constantly hurt when I played baseball, so I spent a lot of time in the training room. I figured, if I couldn’t go into professional baseball, I might as well look for a career in something else that I loved,” said Prince, who now works as a PT for the Southwest Louisiana Sports Rehab Center.

Prince, who is also affiliated with the Iowa Therapy Group in Iowa and the Thibodeaux, Albro, and Touchet Therapy Group in Jennings, works not only with young athletes, but with patients ranging in age from one to 90. He said that going through physical therapy as an athlete has “definitely helped” him as a PT. “I have felt their aches and pains, so I understand what they’re going through,” Prince said. “I’ve been there.”

from baseball injuries. The institute also found that young pitchers who play more than eight months of baseball a year are five times as likely to need surgery later as those who pitch just five months out of the year. The institute stated that it is “vital” for young athletes to take at least three months off from throwing to rest their arms.

Prince agrees.

“For an athlete, the best way to prevent injury is to warm-up properly, stretch, and rest when your body needs it,” he said. “For young players going through puberty, it’s especially important to avoid overwork, because the body is still growing and changing.”

Prince also has experience in nursing home care, rehabilitation, acute care, outpatient care and home health. He said patients often have the wrong concept of what physical therapy entails.

Although he admits that therapy can sometimes be physically uncomfortable for the patient, the ultimate goal is to manage and alleviate the pain.

“

I have felt their “When they’re in pain, I can feel it. I just tell them that even though it hurts right now, aches and pains, so I in a few weeks they’ll give me a big hug, and thank me,” Prince said. “When I see ’re ey th t ha w nd patients excited and relieved that they have ta unders full mobility again, it’s definitely the most rewarding aspect of my job. People leave here h. ug ro th going and say, ‘I can move my arm again!’ It’s a great

”

The most common injuries he treats are neck pain, feeling to know I played a part in that.”

– Ran Prince, PT back pain and, in young athletes, injuries to the knee or shoulder. He said athletics, especially when it comes to The Southwest Louisiana Sports Rehab Center also baseball, has become much more competitive over the years, employs the skills of an occupational therapist. Scott Meche, which means that young star players are worked harder than they another McNeese graduate, received a degree in occupational were before. Gone are the days when young boys played a variety of therapy from the LSU Medical Center in Shreveport. Meche’s sports, which allowed them to rest overworked parts of their body, Prince specialization includes nursing home care, rehabilitation, acute care said. Today’s young players compete virtually year-round – either with other and outpatient care. players, other teams or themselves.

The rehabilitation center specializes in athletic injuries, orthopedic injuries, According to the American Sports Medicine Institute, five to six times more neurological rehabilitation, injury recovery, work-related injuries, chronic pain children have developed serious shoulder and elbow injuries in recent years management and pediatrics.

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February 2009

It’s Adopt a Rescued Rabbit Month!

With Easter looming on the horizon, many families may be tempted to buy a pet rabbit. It’s these impulse purchases that prompted the creation of Adopt a Rescued Rabbit Month, according to the House Rabbit Society, an international nonprofit animal rescue group. Many rabbits are picked up during an Easter-season high, but pet owners are often ill-prepared for undesirable natural behaviors, particularly chewing. When it comes to chomping, rabbits reign supreme.

Rabbits can make great household pets for the right family -- they are affectionate, inquisitive, and can even learn to use a litterbox -- but make sure you do your research before you add a furry-tailed friend to your family!

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The physical status of Mother improved. She was clean and her skin was better taken care of…The comfort and assistance provided the night mother died was so greatly appreciated. The respect shown for her and our family was beyond measure. You all were a true blessing.

The Brighton Bridge ‘team’ we had was wonderful. We could not have asked for more caring people. If we had any questions, they were just a phone call away. We loved the way the family and patient were treated. I would most definitely recommend Brighton Bridge Hospice to others.

I feel that Brighton Bridge Hospice did a wonderful job with my loved one. They kept her pain under control and tended to her every need. They also explained everything in detail and what we could expect. I felt only love and help from the staff. The Chaplain was very helpful. I thank everyone who was involved.

Proudly Serving Southwest Louisiana OUR MISSION Brighton Bridge Hospice exists to provide and promote the highest total care possible for people with advanced terminal illnesses such as: cancer, Alzheimer’s Disease, CVA, dementia, COPD, CHF, heart disease, pulmonary disease, renal disorders and AIDS. Also, to provide help and support to their families and other individuals important to their care.

February 2009

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Pediatric Sinusitis is more than just the Sniffles

by Christine Fisher

The fluctuations of weather in Southwest Louisiana coupled with viruses passing quickly from one school child to the next means that sniffles, coughs and colds are almost inevitable. Usually, a cold will last a few days, causing a few sleepless nights for both the child and their parents, and then they bounce back quickly. But, what happens when the cold won’t go away?

decongestants or topical nasal sprays may provide short-term relief of stuffiness,” said Dr. Thomas. “Medications used for children to treat sinusitis are similar to those used for adults, but they are adjusted for the age and weight of the child.” She said it is important for children to take the medicine throughout the recommended duration, even if the child begins to feel better within a few days.

“When a child remains ill with cold symptoms beyond the usual week to ten days, a sinus infection may be the reason,” explained Jenny Thomas, MD, Pediatrician with The Pediatric Center. “Pediatric sinusitis can be difficult to diagnose because symptoms can be subtle and varied.” She said symptoms of sinusitis in children differ from those of an adult. “Children often demonstrate a cough, bad breath, crankiness, low energy, and swelling around the eyes with a thick yellow-green nasal or post-nasal drip.”

Sometimes, sinusitis is an ongoing problem. If a child has one or more symptoms of sinusitis for at least 12 weeks, he or she may have chronic sinusitis. If the chronic sinusitis occurs more than four to six times in a year, it is usually recommended to see an ENT specialist for medical or surgical treatment of the sinuses.

Other symptoms of sinusitis in children include: • a “cold” lasting more than 10 to 14 days • low-grade fever • headache, usually in children age six or older • irritability • earache Young children have immature immune systems and are more prone to infections of the nose, sinus and ears, especially in the first several years of life. These are most frequently caused by viral infections, or colds, as well as allergies.

When sinusitis occurs, most children respond very well to therapy. “Nasal

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“Environment can also aggravate sinusitis and other respiratory illnesses in children,” said Dr. Thomas. Exposure to tobacco smoke in the home is a major problem. “Parents need to realize even if they avoid smoking inside the house, it is still a problem. Their hair and clothes become contaminated, so when they walk back into the house, smoke exposure can occur.” Smokers are usually unaware of the smell of tobacco smoke, and therefore, cannot readily tell when smoke is present.

Some children with chronic sinusitis experience problems when attending daycare if other children have viruses. In older kids, exposure to viruses at school may be a problem.

Awareness of symptoms and seeking treatment in a timely manner can help children get through the effects of sinusitis. For more information on pediatric sinusitis, call The Pediatric Center at 527-6371.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2009

Information provided by Robert Guilott, owner of AAA Drive-In Cleaners, a Certifed Garment Care Professional.

Love your

Leather

Ink: Spray with hairspray and wipe clean.

Ink is very difficult to remove, professional help may be needed.

Leather jackets are this winter’s hottest fashion accessory. Because a good leather jacket represents a considerable investment, taking proper care of it is a necessity.

Treat new leather with a conditioner that is specifically made for leather, and for best results, retreat annually. Avoid waxes or other products that will not allow the leather to breathe.

These can have the same damaging effects as leaving your jacket in a plastic bag. It is also a good idea to avoid using chemicals, such as cologne or hairspray, which can damage the coat. Pay particular attention to areas such as the cuffs and the neck. Because they are in constant contact with body dirt and oils, they may need extra maintenance. Finally, allow wet leather to dry naturally, out of direct sunlight and away from any heat sources.

Properly conditioned leather should be naturally stain repellent, but even with the most diligent of care, stains happen. All stains should be treated quickly, because with leather, they set quickly and will likely be permanent within hours. When cleaning leather, always use a lint-free or micro fiber cloth, and clean in the direction of the natural grain of the leather, working from the center out. For welltreated leather, simply wiping with a lint free cloth will remove most stains.

If you have stubborn stains, you’ll need to treat each one differently.

Always test a small, inconspicuous area to avoid causing further damage. The following stain-specific tips may help:

February 2009

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Gum: Harden the gum by applying an ice pack.

Remove the hardened gum by chipping it off. For any residue, heat with a hair dryer and remove with a clean cloth.

Grease: Blot excess grease with a clean cloth, then sprinkle the stain with cornstarch or talcum powder. Wait four hours before wiping clean.

Soil: Use leather soap or a mild detergent to remove dirt, then blot with cold water on a clean cloth.

Mildew: Mix 1 cup of rubbing alcohol with 1 cup of water. Wipe mildew with solution, blot with a clean cloth, and dry.

Blood or Urine: Blot with a clean, damp cloth.

Allow to dry.

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, the stain will persist. If this happens, do not hesitate to have your leather professionally cleaned. It will be well worth it for protecting the look and feel of your investment for years to come.

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G

LF

Getting Into

O

nce thought of as a slow-paced, social game just for businessmen or retirees, golf is rapidly becoming a sport of choice that transcends age and sex. In the United States alone, more than 14,000 golf courses serve more than 24 million people annually. While golf can be frustrating, the rewards of the game also make it highly addictive, as evidenced by its growing popularity.

Neel DeRouen, Director of Golf at Gray Plantation, says more people take up golf than any other sport, and then more people give it up because of the frustration that can result if you don’t have the skills and commitment needed to play. “It may look easy, but golf is different from other sports. In other sports that involve a ball, the ball is either moving or you move to it. In golf, the ball is just sitting there and you have to make it move with at least a moderate amount of accuracy.” DeRouen has 23 years of experience as a golf instructor and was rated the 5th best golf instructor in the state of Louisiana by Golf Digest Magazine, and voted Teacher of the Year for the Gulf States section of the PGA. While golfers do not need to be in peak cardiovascular shape, they need strength, stamina, flexibility, coordination, concentration and skill in this challenging game. Golf is an excellent part of a complete health regimen and The American Council on Exercise (ACE) recognizes golf as a legitimate sport for fitness.

Although golf can be an intimidating sport to take up, DeRouen says it’s not really that difficult to get started, if you take it slow and realize there will be learning process involved.

“The biggest mistake people make when they decide they want to play golf is to rush out and buy a brand new set of shiny and expensive golf clubs,” says DeRouen.“While these are nice to look at, you should keep in mind that today’s golf equipment comes in great varieties to cater for different golfing types and abilities. Since you’re just starting out you don’t know which set fits you best. Golf can be an expensive game and you shouldn’t spend tons of money until you know how to play it. You’ll have plenty of time as you progress to buy top-notch clubs.”

He says as a beginner, it’s in your best interest to be thrifty. Manufacturers such as Wilson, Dunlop, Ram, Knight and many others make quality golf sets that can be had for less than $150. Low-cost retailers such as Wal-Mart, Kmart, Target and others often carry bargain club sets. Most driving ranges will have clubs for hire, so you can try out a few different ones before you make a purchase. You can also borrow one or two clubs from a friend. Another option is buying half a set

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d

n

by Kristy Arma

or shopping garage sales or yard sales. “Many experienced golfers buy a new set on a yearly basis, so you might get a great deal on a set that cost somebody else many hundreds of dollars,” says DeRouen.“A year from now, you’ll be ready to spend that kind of money yourself. For now, take the money you’re saving on clubs and invest in lessons.”

As hard as it will be to contain yourself, don’t even contemplate going anywhere near a golf course until you get a few basics under your belt stresses DeRouen.

“Golf is technically quite demanding, and without at least some basic training you’ll end up with a lot of frustration.”

DeRouen recommends starting off at a driving range and taking at least four or five lessons from an area golf pro. At the driving range, you can hit a bucket of balls and no one – except you – will care if most of your shots are terrible. Most driving ranges also have practice putting greens. Your back yard is another good place to practice a swing, although you obviously don’t want to hit real golf balls.

Try a wiffle golf ball, or just work on the swing mechanics you’ve been learning during lessons. Lessons from area golf pros average about $40 - $50 for a onehour session and are often less expensive if you schedule a block of lessons.

Support your lessons and practice sessions by watching some instructional golf videos or CDs. He says area bookstores offer a comprehensive collection of books about golf basics, rules and etiquette. “These can be useful to gain background knowledge about the game, but can’t really provide you with the guidance you need on technique. You can only get that on the course.”

Once you learn the fundamentals, DeRouen says the best thing you can do is play as often as you can. He advises trying out your new skills on a 9-hole course for a while before eventually moving up to an 18-hole golf course. And if you can, he advises playing with someone who knows their way around the course.

“The most important things anyone needs to play golf are patience and a sense of humor,” says DeRouen. “Even professional golfers will tell you that the game can be unpredictable. You’re going to hit good shots; you’re going to hit bad shots, so you just need to enjoy the whole experience – the people you’re with, and the course you’re playing. As you get better you’ll get more serious about your game, but you still need to have a good time.”

The course at Gray Plantation is an 18-hole, 7200-yard championship links golf course designed by internationally respected golf course architect William “Rocky” Roquemore. Gray Plantation has received top national and regional rankings from Golf Magazine and Golf Digest. For more information about golf lessons, call Gray Plantation at 562-1663.

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February 2009

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61

in children can “beHeadaches more difficult to diagnose

because they may not be able to explain the symptoms they are experiencing.

”

– Luis Apellaniz, MD

Kids Get Headaches Too

by Kristy Armand

J

ust about everyone gets a headache from time to time, some more than others. But when your child gets a headache, how do you know if it’s just a normal occurrence or cause for concern? According to Luis Apellaniz, MD, pediatrician on the medical staff with Jennings American Legion Hospital, headaches are common among children and generally are not serious.

In fact, 50 percent to 75 percent of all kids report having at least one headache per month.

“When it comes to headaches, children are a lot like adults and can experience different types of pain,” says Dr. Apellaniz. “Headaches in children can be more difficult to diagnose because they may not be able to explain the symptoms they are experiencing. Parents play a big role in helping us pinpoint the cause.

Careful monitoring of your child’s behavior when headaches occur can help us determine the type of headache and an effective treatment plan.”

He adds that there can be many causes for head pain in a child, including common ailments such as the cold, flu, sinus infection and toothaches. Tension headaches are also very common among teens.

If your child occasionally has a mild headache that is not associated with neurologic complaints and is otherwise healthy, Dr. Apellaniz says the headaches are probably not the result of a serious condition and can be treated with rest and age-appropriate doses of non-aspirin pain relievers. “However, if your child suffers from significant, unexplained headaches once a month or more over a period of several months, you should definitely consult your doctor for a thorough evaluation.”

When parents bring children to seek medical attention, Dr. Apellaniz says the cause is often migraines. Migraines are actually more common than asthma and

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diabetes in children. About five percent of school-age kids and up to 20% of teens get migraine headaches. Girls suffer with migraines more than boys do.

“If it is determined that your child is suffering from migraines, prevention becomes a big part of the treatment,” says Dr. Apellaniz. “For extra protection against migraines, we work with parents and the child to identify and avoid the things that seem to trigger headaches.” He explains that in addition to emotional stress, common migraine triggers in children include certain foods and drinks, bright or flickering lights, noise, movies or television, unusually heavy exercise, and overexposure to the sun. “A headache diary that records the symptoms, the date and time of each episode, and the events leading up to the attack can be extremely valuable for determining what specific triggers are.”

For pain relief of most common headaches, most doctors will recommend nonaspirin, over-the-counter pain relievers. Ice packs and massaging the neck and shoulder area can also provide relief. For severe pain associated with migraine and cluster headaches, prescription medication may be recommended for prevention and/or pain relief. Parents should avoid letting a child take more that a few of any pain reliever each week. Taking too many pain relievers can lead to daily headaches that do not respond to treatment.

Dr. Apellaniz says mild nausea with a headache is a common complaint, however fever, listlessness, weakness of an arm and leg, decreased alertness, visual problems, or severe vomiting are cause for concern. He advises seeing a doctor immediately if any of these symptoms accompany the headache.

“In general, headaches in children can have many causes, and in most cases are not a cause for alarm,” stresses Dr. Apellaniz. “As with any medical condition, parents should contact their doctor for advice if they are concerned or have specific questions regarding their child’s headaches at any time.”

Thrive Magazine for Better Living

February 2009

ZYDEFEST IV Featuring: J. Paul & The Nu Breeds, Step Rideau, Brian Jack and Marcus Ardoin

PERFORMING LIVE in the Delta Event Center • SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2009 DOORS OPEN AT NOON, SHOW FROM 1PM - 10PM • FREE ADMISSION WITH B CONNECTED CARD MUST BE 21 OR OLDER TO ATTEND

Some events may contain profanity or other content of an adult nature.

Subject to change or cancellation without notice.

February 2009

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Caring for You, As You Care forThem As a woman, your job description often gets blurred between the family room, the board room, and all points in between. You nurture, comfort, protect, provide for, guide, discipline, delegate and advise every day. The physicians, nurses and staff of OBG-1 know how hard you work to juggle it all. For over 30 years, we have provided excellence in women’s health care. We pledge to continue providing you with the care you need so you can continue to care for those you love.

Physicians: Ben Darby, MD Scott Bergstedt, MD Walter Guth, MD Brad Forsyth, MD

OBG-1 Services Include:

• Pregnancy and Delivery • Menopause Management • Pelvic Pain Diagnosis and Treatment • Birth Control • Well Women Screenings • Infertility Diagnosis and Treatment • Osteoporosis Screening • Midwifery

Nurse Practitioners: Tammy Gillett, APRN, NP Marilyn Watson, APRN, NP Certified Nurse Midwife: Bonnie Leger, CNM

1.866.312.OBG1 • 312-1000 • obg-1.com

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