Plainfield Magazine May 2021

MAY 2021

MAGAZINE

MOTHER’S DAY GIFT IDEAS FOR EVERY MOM SKIN CANCER PREVENTION How to Protect Your Skin and Enjoy Your Summer

PlainfieldMag.com

INSPIRED BY HAPPIER, HEALTHIER HOOSIER FAMILIES. We are proud to have earned Indiana’s new Perinatal Level III designation.

Always inspired to deliver the most comprehensive services, we offer specialty treatment in both Obstetrics and Neonatal Intensive Care. Our team includes advanced practice providers, 24/7 anesthesiologists, maternal-fetal medicine physicians and neonatologists from Riley Children’s Health.

New families will appreciate rooms that allow for privacy and space and help promote bonding.

As the only hospital in south Indianapolis to obtain this certification, we’re providing moms and babies all the care they need under our roof.

FranciscanHealth.org

2 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / MAY 2021 / PlainfieldMag.com

We Can Fix It Fast For A Lot Less Money NOW HIRING LEAD ELECTRICIANS The ideal candidate will have 5 year minimum experience in Residential and Commercial work.

INCLUDES FULL BENEFITS & EQUAL PAY Generators

Outdoor Receptacles

220 Circuits

Lightning Strike Repairs

Security Lighting

Landscape Lighting

Hot Tubs

Electrical Repairs

Outlets and Switches

Home Inspection Lists

GFCIs

Ceiling Lights/Fans

and Much More!

24 HOUR SERVICE FryeElectricInc.com /FryeElectric

FREE QUOTES 317-271-1099 @FryeElectric

A TOWNE POST NETWORK PUBLICATION

For advertising information, contact:

I N THI S I SS UE

M ay 2021

PUBLISHER

DA RRE N BOSTON

DARREN@TOWNEPOST.COM

317.716.8812 TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. F O U N D E R /C EO

TOM BRITT

TOM@TOWNEPOST.COM

317.496.3599 PRESIDENT

JE A N N E BR I TT

JEANNE@TOWNEPOST.COM

317.810.0011 ASS O C I AT E P U B LISHE R

ROBE RT TU R K

ROB@TOWNEPOST.COM

317.810.0011 D I R EC TO R O F D I G I TA L E N G AGEME N T

JOSH BROWN C R E ATI V E /S O C IAL T E AM

TON I E A DS VAL HACKER

6 9 17 24 26

Moth e r ’s Day G ift Id e as For Eve r y Mom H is O wn Pace : Racin g Le g e n d Al U n se r J r.

Re fle cts on Care e r an d Faith Walkin g th e Walk: Re lay for Life Raise s Aware n e ss an d Fu n d s for Can ce r Re se arch S kin Can ce r Preve n tion : H ow to Prote ct Your S kin an d E n joy You r S u mme r In Str id e : Joey Dickin son is Livin g H is Best Life De sp ite Physical Limitation s

CO PY E D I TO R

JON S HOULD ER S REAL-TIME ANALYTICS

K E Y CO N TRI BU TO RS ABIGAIL HAKE / AMY PAYNE / JAMIE HERGOTT / CHRISTY HEITGER-EWING JENFORD PHOTOGRAPHY / DR. LAWRENCE MARK

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC.

Scan the QR code to see this magazine’s real-time reach and distribution numbers.

8800 North Street, Suite 117 | Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: 317-810-0011

FOR FRANCHISE INFORMATION, VISIT FRANCHISING.TOWNEPOST.COM

# S POTL I GH TI NGLOCAL

Congratulations to the Plainfield High School Class of 2021

AUTO HOME BOAT UMBRELLA Danny Crum Merritt Hall Insurance 2421 Production Dr. Indianapolis, IN 46242 317-247-7737 dcrum@merritthall.com www.merritthall.com

GENERAL LIABILITY WORKERS COMP BUSINESS AUTO COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

Melissa Sheets John Dininger Jill Martin REALTOR®/BROKER

REALTOR®/BROKER

317.727.5536

317.417.9042

REALTOR®/BROKER

317.414.4668

REALTORS

Liberty Mutual and Safeco Insurance, with a principal place of business in Boston, Massachusetts. ©2020 Liberty Mutual Insurance

F.C. TUCKER COMPANY, INC.

MOTHER’S DAY IS Sunday, May 9th EVERYTHING IN THE STORE IS ON SALE 20% TO 50% OFF

(317) 839-3202

|

Free Flowers With Any $100 Purchase

1 8 2 2 E. M A I N S T.

PlainfieldMag.com / MAY 2021 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / 5

|

PLAINFIELD

MOTHER’S DAY GIFT IDEAS FOR EVERY MOM

MOTHER’S DAY IS COMING UP MAY 9TH. DO YOU HAVE PLANS YET? HAVE YOU GOTTEN A GIFT FOR YOUR MOM? MOMS ARE WAY TOO IMPORTANT NOT TO PLAN FOR. SO, ASIDE FROM PEACE AND QUIET, HERE ARE A FEW IDEAS ON WAYS TO MAKE HER SMILE AND REMEMBER THIS MOTHER’S DAY.

Writer / Abigail Hake

FOR THE NEW MOMS

The best gifts for new moms are things that save time and small comforts for sleepdeprived parents like super-soft mix and match pajamas you can find at Soma or a subscription to Shipt or Instacart! They’ll 100 percent appreciate the thoughtfulness of not having to run to the grocery store when they need things for dinner, but the baby is napping.

FOR THE FLORAL LOVING MOM

Does your momma like flowers? Most do, but there are a couple of different options here. For those who like to get their hands dirty in the garden, pop over to your local nursery or gardening and landscaping store and grab a few of their favorite florals. You can purchase prepotted arrangements or pick out a few flats for your mom to make their own combination. There are also options for those who are less inclined to garden but prefer fresh cut. If that’s the case, check out thebouqs.com who offers really unique florals that she’s sure to want to show off.

FOR THE MOM WHO NEEDS QUIET

The one thing moms can never get enough of is alone time, and there are many ways to give her that. She might have a preferred massage location or yoga spot that you can grab her a gift card at. Or even better, book her an appointment and prepay!

She’s sure to love this alone time especially when everything is taken care of.

FOR THE ACTIVE MOM

The best gifts for active mom are obviously activities! If your mom is a gal who likes to 6 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / MAY 2021 / PlainfieldMag.com

work out, then maybe buy her a few sessions to try out a new studio in your area. If they are someone who likes to be outdoors, think about gifting her a season pass to your state park. With a pass, they can explore some really great land throughout the state.

FOR THE ARTISTIC OR CRAFTY MOM

If your mom is one who loves to get crafty and make things, why not sign her up for a local workshop? Find one for decorating florals, creating candles, or hand lettering.

Pouring candles is also very fun and maybe more her style. If so, sign her up for a candle pouring workshop in your area.

FOR THE FOODIE MOM

Treat your mom to a nice Mother’s Day brunch and no dishes afterward. No one wants to do the dishes on Mother’s Day. No. One. So make reservations at her favorite, local restaurant. Enjoy each other’s company while enjoying some great eats too I don’t think many would say no to brunch. And if you can’t make brunch happen, then grab her a gift card to one of her favorite spots to eat around town.

FOR ANY MOM

Maybe she wears jewelry but likes finer pieces. If that’s your mom, find a local jewelry craft store where the ladies there will be able to create something

With over 20 years of experience in commercial banking, Kathy Spencer-Ellis is committed to helping your business move to the next level.

Offering a solutions-oriented approach and unmatched personal service, she will bring professional solutions that work for you and your business.

Kathy Spencer-Ellis VP/Commercial Lender

Visit Kathy at our Plainfield Branch located in front of the Walmart Neighborhood Market and across from the Police Station.

317-754-2896

kspencer-ellis@homebanksb.com www.homebanksb.com 7PlainfieldMag.com / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / MAY 2021 / MAY / PLAINFIELD 2021 / PlainfieldMag.com MAGAZINE / 7

custom or help find you something perfect that’s readily available from their beautiful collection. If you think something a little simpler might work, pick up a monogram necklace. There’s also amazing silhouette necklaces on Etsy if you have time to order. Check out LEILAjewelryshop or GracefullyMadeStudio for unique and heartfelt necklaces.

And if you aren’t able to figure anything out and all else fails, chocolate.

Chocolates are quick and much loved.

Pick out her favorites. Truffles, along with a handwritten card, and love are sure to please. As long as you make sure you give mom a day to relax and let her know how much you appreciate her and love her, you will win her heart over. Moms don’t hear these affirmations often enough, and usually, they are the icing on the cake to make for a perfect Mother’s Day — along with chocolate.

EXCITING CHANGES FOR IVY TECH IN

HENDRICKS COUNTY Ivy Tech Avon is moving to the new MADE@Plainfield facility located at 1610 Reeves Road for the Fall 2021 semester.

Our new location will include two science labs, three computer labs and a variety of classes and programs.

Enroll now for classes that start June 7, then continue your journey with us at MADE@Plainfield.

IvyTech.edu/Avon • (317) 968-1516

NOW ENROLLING! LEARNING THROUGH PLAY Summer Camp & August Classes Waived Registration Fee IS NOTHING TO LAUGH AT. LEARNING THROUGH PLAY IS

Tour your local Goddard School and experience why it’s the NOTHING TO LAUGH AT. best preparation for social and academic success. Goddard Systems, Inc.’s program AdvancED Accredited.

Tour your local Goddard School is and experience why it’s the best preparation for social and academic success. Goddard Systems, Inc.’sEnrolling program is AdvancED Accredited.

Now for August Classes

AVON • 8547 E. US Highway 36 •317-272-1337 GoddardSchool.com

****

The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc. Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, Inc. program is AdvancED accredited. © Goddard Systems, Inc. 2016

8 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / MAY 2021 / PlainfieldMag.com

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photographer / Amy Payne Additional Photography Provided

MAY 2021

A

As a professional race car driver, Al Unser Jr. has truly lived life in the fast lane, and he’s loved every minute of the competitive nature of the sport. But just as there is no such thing as the perfect race, there is also no such thing as the perfect life.

Through the years, Unser has experienced his share of speed bumps and disappointments along the way - most notably, his battle with alcohol. Though he’s experienced ups and downs, both personally and professionally, it was only when he slowed down, looked up, and connected with Jesus Christ that he found true and lasting peace.

For as far back as he can recall, Unser had

a need for speed - something that ran in his family, as both his father, Al Unser Sr., and his uncle, Bobby Unser, were racing legends. In fact, he, his uncle Bobby, and his dad all won the Indy 500 on May 24.

Between the three of them, the Unser family has won the Indy 500 a record of nine times.

Unser began racing go-karts when he was 9 years old. By 16, he was professionally racing sprint cars.

demanding, but it was so competitive that when you did win races, it was very gratifying.”

He competed in more than 300 races, winning 34 of them, including two-time victories at both the Indianapolis 500 and Daytona 500. Unser credits his team for those triumphs.

“You truly had to work at it and even when we were all prepared, you had to have some luck where things just went your way,” Unser says.

“At a young age, I thought, ‘I love racing and if I’m successful at it, I’ll keep going,’” says Unser, who hit the ground running As every driver knows, on some days early in life and never looked back. luck is on your side, and on other days, “Racing was both physically and mentally not so much. For instance, a driver may MAY 2021

“ At a young age, I thought, ‘I love racing and if I’m successful at it, I’ll keep going. Racing was both physically and mentally demanding, but it was so competitive that when you did win races, it was very gratifying.” ­­— Al Unser Jr.

PA I D A D V E R T I S E M E N T

Enjoying retirement after surgery for back pain Patient describes life after back surgery at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital

have a victory in their line of sight, and then in an instant, their engine blows up or an accident occurs.

There is also human error.

“In every race mistakes are made, whether it’s the pit crew or the driver,” Unser says. “The goal is to make fewer mistakes than anybody else.”

Unser retired from racing in 2007 after a career that includes Indy 500 wins in 1992 and 1994. In 2009, Unser was inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America. Though his first Indy 500 win was nearly three decades ago, he

George Frampton recalls when his back pain started affecting his everyday life. He said he would often walk around with his co-workers during lunch but struggled to keep up. And at his daughter’s wedding, he said he had trouble standing while his family posed for photos.

“Over time, I was walking stooped over. I felt like I was becoming a spectacle,” said George.

At his doctor’s recommendation, and with much thought by himself and his wife, Chris, George underwent spinal reconstruction surgery at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital.

George said he was extremely pleased with the personalized care he received.

“The nurses and doctors interacted so well with both me and my wife, and included her in all conversations,” he said.

George is now able to stand upright and is enjoying retirement with his wife.

“My wife and I drove to Florida,” said George. “I was able to do a lot of things that I probably could never have done before the surgery.”

“When patients have gotten to the point where nothing else is cutting it, including injections, physical therapy and bracing, it may be the right time to have a discussion

George Frampton and his wife, Chris

with your doctor about surgery,” said John DePowell, MD, a neurosurgeon specializing in the treatment of complex spinal disorders.

If you are experiencing back or neck pain that prevents you from doing the things you enjoy, now is the time to have a discussion with your doctor. Neurosurgeons at Ascension St. Vincent offer a range of spine surgery options — from minimally invasive to more advanced. Ascension St. Vincent is open for appointments, and their doctors, nurses and care teams are fully prepared for your safety in their care.

Take the next step to living with less pain.

Schedule an appointment and ask about virtual visits.

If you are experiencing back pain, visit ascension.org/StVincentBrainandSpine and talk to your doctor at Ascension St. Vincent. © Ascension 2021. All rights reserved.

MAY 2021

still vividly recalls the feeling of elation that enveloped him.

“It was a dream come true,” he says. “It was life itself.”

More recently, however, Unser has found new life by forging a meaningful relationship with Christ.

Born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Unser moved back to the Indianapolis area in the fall of 2017, when he joined an Indy car team that was just starting up. His mom, also a Hendricks County resident, invited Unser to join her at her church one Sunday. Initially, he agreed to go because he knew it would make her happy, but he had no real interest in learning about God. “During my life, my conversations with God had always gone something like, ‘Please, let me win today’s race,’” Unser says. “That was the extent.”

As he sat in the church pews week after

week listening to the pastor’s messages, however, he had a change of heart. One day, he had a revelation.

“I decided to give my life to Jesus and instantaneously I felt such a good feeling deep down inside me,” Unser says.

As the weeks and months passed, he noticed something profound.

“I didn’t fear death anymore,” Unser says.

“And what’s more, I didn’t fear life.”

Many people who struggle with substance use disorder know what he means. Though Unser had used alcohol as a teen and into his 20s and 30s, his substance use disorder grew over time.

“It’s a subtle disease that progressively got worse,” says Unser, who struggled to admit he had a problem.

Eventually he did reach out for help and started improving, but time and again he suffered slip-ups and backslides, which served to both discourage and humiliate

Windows - Siding - Doors & More

Industries Strongest Limited Lifetime Warranty - Including Glass Breakage

Call Today For a Free Virtual Estimate

Buy Today, Take Time To Pay *Special 0% Financing Available

Rated #1 in Price! — 2019 Ranked Highest in Customer Satisfaction by J.D. Power More Times than Any Other Window and Patio Door Retailer.

Window World received the highest score among Retailers in the J.D. Power 2013, 2014, 2016, 2018, and 2019 Window and Patio Door Satisfaction Study of customers’ satisfaction with their windows and/ or patio doors purchase. Visit jdpower.com/awards Color Palette

CMYK: 0, 100, 36, 37

317-209-0008 | WindowWorld.com

CMYK: 0, 8, 22, 56

RGB: 147, 22, 56

PANTONE® 1955 C

MAY 2021

Hex #: 931638

RGB: 140, 127, 112

PANTONE®

Warm Grey 9 C

Hex #: 8C7F70

Hendricks County Bank Hendricks County Bank and Trust Company and Trust Company

Let HCBT take care of you and the Earth with FLAT OUT FREE Checking No monthly service charge with Electronic Statements and Online Banking included!

Open a checking account and get a FREE insulated water bottle!

(317) 852-2268 • hendrickscountybank.com MAY 2021

him. Once he found Jesus, however, a switch was flipped. He felt that God was always there for him - he had just never taken the time before to be still and listen.

“That quiet time is so important in connecting with God,” Unser says. “He speaks to us when we settle down and are quiet. That can be hard in today’s fast-paced world, when our phones are ringing and binging all the time, but quiet time with Jesus is huge.”

Growing a meaningful relationship with Christ has given him a hope he didn’t know before.

“Being a follower of Jesus and serving others lightens your whole attitude going into the day,” Unser says. “When I was racing and everything was so competitive, I didn’t really serve anybody but myself.”

Following Jesus and studying God’s word helped Unser stay sober, and on May 24, 2021, he will celebrate two years of sobriety. Unser, currently single, has four children, Al, Cody, Shannon and Joe, and one grandchild. In his free time, he likes to watch TV, play racquetball, and hang out with his two miniature schnauzers, Lola and Larry. He’s also currently working for a Sports Car Club of America Formula 4 race team that runs kids, mainly between the ages of 14 and 20.

Last year Sarah Fisher Hartman Racing Development started a new Formula 4 United States Championship program with Elliot Cox, 13, behind the wheel. Unser was hired as a driver coach to work directly with Cox as well as Chloe Chambers, 16, who is with Future Star Racing. This is a first step for go-kart racers to determine if they truly want to pursue a professional racing career.

“I’m looking forward to a wonderful summer helping out that team as much as I can,” says Unser, who coached last year with a different race team in the same Formula 4 series. “I truly enjoy helping the kids. When they do well out on the racetrack and they come in smiling, that’s a win for me.”

MAY 2021

Available for ALL Graduates: Middle School, High School, College & more!

Starting at just $25, you can send your senior or teacher a message!

Purchase online at TownePost.direct

Celebrating 30 years in business! francoland.com 317-858-3858

Mulching - Mowing - Fertilization - Clean Ups

Let us help you Create & Maintain your outdoor space!

Custom Landscape Care, from Concept through Completion DESIGNS - HARDSCAPES - LANDSCAPES MAINTENANCE - LIGHTING - IRRIGATION MAY 2021

Get Ready For Summer

By getting your irrigation systems opened & checked out Spend more time with your family & friends & less time watering your lawn

Call us for a FREE estimate to install your new irrigation system.

136 Casco Drive – Avon • (317) 339-8536 info@allterrainlandscape.com MAY 2021

WALKING THE WALK R E L AY FO R L I F E R A I S E S AWA R E N E S S A N D F U N D S FO R C A N C E R R E S E A R C H “It was a drastic hit,” says Renee Mohler, event leader for Brownsburg’s Relay for Life.

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photography Provided & JenFord Photography

In the spring of 1985, cancer survivor Gordy Klatt walked for 24 hours around a track in Tacoma, Washington, to raise money for the American Cancer Society (ACS). His friends and family came out to support him, and their presence made him realize the healing nature of community. The following year he invited people to create teams, and the annual ACS Relay for Life was born. Now, 36 years later, this popular event has grown to 2,000 relays that take place across the country.

For years, Relay for Life Brownsburg has been held at Brownsburg West Middle School. Because it’s held on school grounds, teams have typically walked from 9 a.m. until 11 p.m., instead of 24 hours.

Last year COVID-19 prompted event leaders and relays around the country to go virtual, which cost the ACS $20 million in donations across the globe.

This local chapter still performed very well, raising $70,000, putting them in the top percentage in the country.

Mary Kintner, a second-grade teacher at Brown Elementary School, is the team captain of Striding with Brown, the highest fundraising team in the area. Her team has raised more than $50,000 in the six years she’s been involved. The event is important to her because her extended family has been riddled with cancer, and she wanted to do her part to help fund research and support programs for cancer patients and their families.

“I love ACS’s motto, ‘Cancer won’t quit, so neither can we,’” says Kintner, whose husband received a cancer diagnosis three years ago.

“So many suffer each day, each week and every year. I know that the work my team does for Relay is a small drop in the bucket, but it

MAY 2021

means something just knowing that we can make a difference.”

Kintner’s two co-captains, Cindy and Nancy, are both survivors and serve to inspire her.

“They are fighters, and I’m honored to partner with them,” says Kintner, who has made numerous friendships with people on the leadership team. “It’s a family of friends serving those who have fought hard.”

During a typical Relay for Life event, while some teammates take turns walking a track, others fundraise by selling food, running silent auctions, or offering fun activities like a dunk tank or mini golf. This year’s Relay for Life, however, will be a drive-through event at Brownsburg High School on May 15, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

“We’re going to ask people to stay in their cars because we don’t want to compromise the health of survivors by encouraging people to be in a close-knit group,” Mohler says.

“We’ve had to switch gears on all protocols to make this safe

for cancer survivors.”

Vehicles will enter on Bulldog Boulevard, stopping at various stations as they make their way around the parking lot.

Luminaria bags, each representing either a cancer patient, cancer survivor or someone who has lost their life to cancer, will be lit by 8 p.m. Supporters can drive the parking lot.

Towards the end of the evening, around 8:30 p.m., survivors will line up near the stage for a luminaria ceremony. Masked volunteers will decorate survivors’ cars, and present them with gift bags and to-go meals.

“It’s really pretty cool,” Mohler says. “We’ll also try to write a message in the stands.”

This year has been harder than normal for many cancer patients.

Some died in hospitals without their families. Others couldn’t get access to treatment because it wasn’t the priority anymore.

Still others neglected treatment or put off diagnoses.

“When cancer patients feel part of a community, it offers hope,” Mohler says.

Lindsay Brown & Family

“While we can’t all be in person this year, I still want them to know that this community is here for them. The survivors who come will be loved on.”

Lindsay Brown, 39, has learned firsthand what it feels like to be part of a community. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in April of 2020, near the start of the pandemic. The timing proved to be both good and bad.

“I have a love-hate relationship with COVID,” says Brown, noting that since most doctors’ offices were closed last spring except for emergency situations, she was able to move quickly once she found a lump. “I noticed the lump on Sunday, called on a Tuesday, was in for my mammogram on that Wednesday, and

by Friday I knew I had cancer.”

Brown, who has two boys aged 7 and 11, had a double mastectomy on May 13 - a difficult day, as her husband Chad dropped her at the hospital door and had to sit in the parking lot for the 10-hour surgery since no one was allowed in the waiting room. Thankfully, the day before she started chemotherapy, the hospital lifted restrictions and Chad was able to accompany her.

FIND YOUR STRENGTH AT THE Y We’re Here, with Care.

Your health is our priority, and we take it seriously. We’re taking extra precautions in our Ys and off-site programs, including enhanced cleaning following guidance from state and local health officials.

Programs and activities for all ages & interests.

“I was told if I were to contract COVID-19 during chemo, it would be devastating,” Brown says.

Though her family was a huge support, it was still a lonely time to be a cancer patient. Throughout her cancer journey, Brown documented her highs and lows on social media.

“Sometimes when I shared my feelings online, I felt like I

INDYMCA.org MAY 2021

was being a baby, but people would tell me, ‘Vent, girl! Do it!’”

Brown says. “They even sent me cookies and bottles of wine with supportive notes.”

a separate kind.

“If there’s a 38-year-old out there who feels a lump and thinks, ‘I’ll wait to deal with it when I’m 40,’ maybe my story will change their mind,” Brown says. “If I’d waited until I was 40 to get that mammogram, my story would have a different ending.”

While some people might not feel comfortable sharing such personal information, Brown did it as a sort of public service announcement, to alert other women to stay vigilant about their health, even if they’re young.

Mohler started following Brown on social media and reached out to tell her about Relay for Life. Brown decided to start her own team, called Lindsay’s Bosom Buddies.

“I never in a million years would have thought I’d get cancer,” Brown says.

Cancer doesn’t run in her family, yet she got it at age 38. Genetic testing concluded that she had a 40% chance of recurrence in the next decade if she didn’t undergo chemotherapy. She opted for four rounds of a chemotherapy combination, followed by 12 rounds of

Even though the event is labeled Relay for Life Brownsburg and is held in Brownsburg, Mohler stresses that event leaders want all Hendricks County residents and businesses to get involved.

“There are cancer survivors throughout the county and we want to

MAY 2021

welcome them all,” Mohler says.

why I love being a part of this.”

The event helps to lift spirits and truly make a difference.

If you or your business would like to donate a basket or become a sponsor, contact Mohler at RelayForLife.BrownsburgIN@gmail. com. For more information on Relay for Life, visit relayforlife.org/ brownsburgin.

“Every year the number of survivors goes up, while the number of those losing the battle to cancer goes down,” Kintner says. “That’s

MAY 2021

Rental of $150 or more With coupon only. Must present coupon at time of order. Expires 12-31-21.

1900 E. Main St. – Danville (317) 718-6153

The 33,000 sq. ft. Hendricks County 4-H Conference Center offers great flexibility and versitility for your next meeting, seminar, banquet, or wedding reception SPECIAL FEATURES • • • • • • • • •

Nine conference classrooms and boardrooms Complete commercial kitchen Demonstation kitchen 12,000 sq. ft. multi-purpose auditorium 24’ x 36’ stage Easy load-in areas with overhead door High ceilings Epoxy covered flooring ADA accessibility

2021 FAIR: JULY 18TH – 24TH

For details, to purchase tickets & schedule of events visit: www.4hcomplex.org MAY 2021

MAY 2021

SKIN CANCER PREVENTION HOW TO PROTECT YOUR SKIN AND ENJOY YOUR SUMMER Writer / Dr. Lawrence Mark, Dermatologist at IU Health West Hospital Photography Provided

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70. Sun damage accumulates over time, which is why it’s important to understand how to protect your skin, especially during the summer months when more activities are enjoyed outdoors.

AVOID TANNING.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, one indoor tanning session can increase your risk of developing melanoma by 20%, and squamous cell carcinoma by 67%. Both are common types of skin cancer.

Sunless tanning products can help you achieve a summer glow without damaging your skin.

BE AWARE OF UV INDEX. The higher the UV index, the more likely

you are to burn out in the sun. During the sun’s peak hours, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the UV index ranges from eight to 10, which is very high. During those peak hours, try to stay in the shade and avoid becoming sunburnt.

WEAR PROTECTIVE CLOTHING.

When you can, wear clothing that covers your arms and legs to prevent sun exposure.

Protect your head, face, ears and neck by wearing a wide-brim hat. Protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses.

WEAR SUNSCREEN.

Even on cloudy days, it’s important to wear sunscreen. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen, with an SPF of 30 or higher, that is water resistant. Apply your sunscreen to any area that is exposed to the sun, 15 to 30 minutes before being in the sun. Don’t forget to protect your lips with a lip balm that has an SPF of at least MAY 2021

30. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, especially when swimming or sweating.

EXAMINE YOUR SKIN.

Skin cancer, when found early, is very treatable. Each month, examine your skin from head to toe, to check for any abnormalities. When performing your self-exam, look for any growths, moles, birthmarks or brown spots that increase in size, color or texture, or are bigger than a pencil eraser. Keep an eye on any sores that continuously itch, hurt, bleed and do not heal within a few weeks.

If something looks unusual to you, contact your dermatologist to schedule an appointment. See a board-certified dermatologist at least once per year for a professional skin exam, to help detect skin cancer early.

MAY CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ACROSS 1. Roman M 5. Part of fish-hook 7. Chew like rat 8. Rekindle 9. Sidesteps 12. Imbiber 15. Transplanted (skin) 19. Carrion-eating animals 21. Entranceway chimes 22. Precious metal 23. Paved enclosure 24. International agreements

DOWN 1. Pulled sharply 2. Unmarried 3. Land units 4. Trader 5. Navigational warning light 6. Witty conversation 10. Sector 11. Way out 12. Unexploded shell 13. Very dark 14. Oven for pottery 15. Happily 16. Dreaded 17. Result 18. Stage whispers 19. Split in two 20. Number of spider’s legs

Solutions

ASSISTED LIVING • REHABILITATION • LONG TERM CARE • MEMORY SUPPORT

Looking for answers?

A senior living community where you’ll find the stability and expertise every senior deserves.

ANSWER: Cumberland Trace Take our free healthcare assessment at cardon.us/plainfieldmag

www.CumberlandTrace.us PlainfieldMag.com / MAY 2021 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / 25

Joey & Toy Buzz & Fizz owner, Bob Taylor

JOEY DICKINSON IS LIVING HIS BEST L I F E D E S P I T E P H Y S I C A L L I M I TAT I O N S Writer / Jamie Hergott Photographer / Amy Payne Additional Photography Provided

26 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / MAY 2021 / PlainfieldMag.com

n many ways, 17-year-old Joey Dickinson is like any other teenager. He loves card games, sports, Dungeons & Dragons, and spending a lot of time with his good friends. He gets straight As and loves being involved with extracurricular activities.

In one major way, he’s different.

Dickinson was born with a rare birth defect that rendered him with undeveloped muscles, and some missing altogether. This has never held him back - in fact, he didn’t consider until fairly recently that he was different from his classmates at Plainfield High School. This is evidence that his joy, optimism and zest for life have buoyed him above his struggles over the years.

“I honestly had not really noticed until recently that my life is different from others,” Dickinson says. “Growing up I always thought, ‘I can do this,’ and, ‘I can

Dickinson was born with his legs crossed and flipped behind his back, stuck in place.

He has endured multiple surgeries over the years. From the time he was a newborn until he was 2, he had casts on his legs, had Dickinson was born with arthrogryposis them removed for a time, and then had multiplex congenita, a condition that to wear them again after each of his seven consists of multiple joint contractures or surgeries. His last surgery was four years ago joint stiffness. at the age of 13, and unfortunately it was “I am lacking in some muscles and tendons,” not successful in providing him the progress toward walking that he anticipated.

Dickinson says. “My joints are out of place and stiff. Some move and some don’t. It’s “They put me under, and then put metal really affected my biceps and triceps, and rods through my legs, connected to my everything below the waist.” bones, and I had pins going into my feet,” Dickinson says, describing his most recent While the condition was not discovered surgery. “Every night, the idea was to twist until Dickinson was born, his mother the pins to shift the bones slowly over time, Melissa knew during pregnancy that causing my legs to correct into the right something wasn’t right. shape for walking.”

“It got missed on the ultrasound, but I Dickinson’s legs and feet curve slightly, not knew deep down something was wrong, and when he was born it was very obvious,” straightening all the way. This keeps him from walking, and he uses a wheelchair to Melissa says. get around. do that. I’m not different at all.’ But lately I’m like, ‘I am actually very different. I cannot go up the stairs.’ ”

• Tree Removal, Topping & Trimming

• Garage/Basement/ Attic Cleanout

• Shrub Trimming & Removal

• Gutter Cleaning

• Light Hauling • Construction Clean-up

STRESS FREE LIVING

• Mini Barn / Shed / Fence / Deck Demolition & Removal

• Junk Removal

• Appliance / E-Waste Removal

• Brush Pile Cleaning

• Stump Grinding

COMPLETED HOMES READY FOR PURCHASE

Call today for prompt service!

317-626-5973 FredAndSons.com PlainfieldMag.com / MAY 2021 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / 27 Fred+SonsAd_Geist_3.5x4.75.indd 1

2/5/18 11:46 AM

Sharing his story, Dickinson’s voice hardly has a trace of sadness. He embraces the self-awareness that comes with becoming a young adult, and says the realization of his differences has made him want to prove himself.

“I want to prove to others and myself I can do this on my own,” Dickinson says. “I want to know that I can do things normal people do on a regular basis, like work, clean, cook - all the basics.”

Dickinson’s wide range of hobbies led him down the path of learning independence.

He and his mom were in downtown Plainfield one day, and they spotted Toy Buzz & Fizz, a local toy shop that had recently opened. Dickinson’s affinity for Yu-Gi-Oh! cards is what drew him in, and when he checked the store out later with his dad, he knew it was a place where he not only wanted to hang out, but also where he wanted to work.

“There are toys from wall to wall, and there was a couch where you could just chill and watch Netflix,” Dickinson says. “There were video games, old toys, new toys, the whole shebang - anything I could ever want.

Immediately, I wanted this type of place to be my first job experience.”

Dickinson inquired about the job right away. Owner Bob Taylor appreciated Dickinson’s confidence and respect.

“He really is beyond his years,” Taylor says.

“He’s a good kid. I love that he is 16 years old asking me for a job. In fact, he has extra reasons not to. He doesn’t take advantage of his disability. He works hard.”

Dickinson had taken it upon himself to visit the shop multiple times before asking for a job, building a relationship with Taylor and making a good impression. He and his cousin loved going to the store for game tournaments together.

Another reason the store works well for Dickinson is because he can get there on his own in his wheelchair on Plainfield’s paved trails. This was a necessity, as his mom works full time and can’t always take 28 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / MAY 2021 / PlainfieldMag.com

him to work.

Dickinson’s sense of play makes transportation to work that much more fun. When asked how long it takes him to wheel to work, he has an answer, because of course he’s clocked it.

“At max speed, my chair goes 6.4 miles an hour,” Dickinson says. “On a nice day, I can be there in 20 minutes. Never slow down.

Never surrender.”

Melissa praises the Town of Plainfield for being a place Dickinson can live as normally as possible.

“The trail system and the curbside work were phenomenal,” Melissa says. “These things have benefited Joey and all people in wheelchairs. He’s able to get to a lot of places.”

Dickinson has also been very involved with the Optimist Miracle Movers, which originated in Plainfield. This program allows those with disabilities the opportunity to participate in organized sports. Dickinson has loved competing in swimming, softball and soccer.

While he loves being involved in sports and extracurricular activities, the last year has kept Dickinson from being as involved as usual, between his job and shutdowns due to COVID. However, he’s embraced his work schedule and the extra time to work on his other “nerd hobbies,” as he calls them, like miniature painting and model kits.

Dickinson has also been branching out lately into taking business classes, his practicality ranging beyond his years.

“No matter what I do, I want to have a backup,” Dickinson says. “Business management and marketing are always sought after. I can apply those principles to my life, whether in normal day-to-day living or in my jobs.”

Melissa says she and her son are very similar.

They both have analytical minds, and they view the world in a fairly straightforward

Avon

(317) 271-7760 10791 E. US Hwy 36 Chick--l-A.com/Avon

PlainfieldMag.com / MAY 2021 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / 29

Plainneld

(317) 839-4886 2687 E. Main St. Chick--l-A.com/Plain-eld

manner. While it was tough to tackle the diagnosis, Melissa is the first to say her son has brightened her life with his humor and positivity.

“I’ve learned to be optimistic and approach everything with humor,” Melissa says.

“That was not who I was before Joey came along.”

As she struggled to come to terms with Dickinson’s disability in the early years, she sought a support group to help her navigate her feelings. Over time, however, she became disenchanted with how negative the group was, and how they approached disability as if it was the end of the world. Watching her son had shown her that his disability was anything but the end of the world.

“The world can only end so many times,” Melissa says, referencing Y2K, COVID and other history-making events.

Even Dickinson himself has encountered other young people who blame many of their problems on their disability.

“They talk a lot about how friends leave because of their disability, or stab them in the back because of it,” Dickinson says. “I just think, ‘You’re in high school. I’m pretty sure this is just what happens at this age.’ ” He still has compassion, letting them talk and empathizing with their feelings because he knows they are hurting.

In February, Dickinson was named the Values Student of the Month by the Plainfield Community School Corporation.

The award goes out each month to students who follow values that are integral to the Town of Plainfield, such as honesty, truth, integrity and justice.

“He takes it all in stride,” Melissa says. “He likes to laugh, and he has this whole other side I don’t have, which is humor. He has taught me to just chill and know it’s going to be OK.”

30 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / MAY 2021 / PlainfieldMag.com

Need a New Roof?

Rick’s ROOFING

Local Company • 30 Years Experience Roofing • Siding • Gutters Licensed, Insured and Bonded

FREE ESTIMATES (317) 223-3972 • (765) 993-0377 RICKSROOFINGAVON.COM rick@ricksroofingavon.com

CHICAGO QUALITY PIZZA RIGHT HERE IN PLAINFIELD

Ask about our OUT party room for your next team club meetingby or work event.

CARRY Available & banquet, DELIVERY 317-837-1717 | CONVENIENTLY LOCATED AT 2230 STAFFORD RD. AT THE CORNER OF 267 | CHICAGOSPIZZA.COM

$5.00 OFF

$3.00 OFF

Valid Lunch Buffet.

ValidatatPlainfield Plainfieldonly. only.Not NotValid ValidWith With Lunch Buffet.

Plainfield PlainfieldMagazine.

Magazine.Expires Expires6-30-21 5-31-20

Valid Expires 6-30-21 5-31-20 Valid at at Plainfield Plainfield only. Plainfield Magazine. Expires

Any Purchase of $25 or More

Any Large Pizza

PlainfieldMag.com / MAY 2021 / PLAINFIELD MAGAZINE / 31

Valid at Plainfield only. Plainfield Magazine. Expires 9-30-19

Wish you could distance yourself from knee or hip pain?

You can. We can help.

Learn how to distance yourself from the pain without leaving home. View one of our free, online seminars to learn the facts about hip and knee surgery.

At our seminar you’ll: ■

Hear from our highly skilled surgeons

■

Discover the benefits of our personalized approach

■

Learn more about our experienced care team

■

Michael Gabbard, MD

Ripley Worman, MD

Get answers to the most common questions about hip and knee pain

Register for a free, online hip & knee pain seminar. Visit iuhealth.org/joints. ©2021 IUHealth

/ PLAINFIELD|MAGAZINE / MAY 2021 / PlainfieldMag.com IU Health West32Hospital 1111 N. Ronald Reagan Parkway in Avon