Healthy Living January 2015

TOP 5% FOR PATIENT SAFETY NATIONWIDE.

Recognition for Leesburg Regional Medical Center continues to grow. HealthGradesTM has awarded the hospital its 2014 Patient Safety Excellence Award. The distinction places Leesburg Regional within the top 5% of all hospitals in the U.S. for its excellent performance in safeguarding patients from serious, potentially preventable complications during their hospital stays. And while we’re undeniably proud of the recognition, we’re most proud to provide our community with the highest quality of care, year after year.

LeesburgRegional.org

‘‘

I feel your pain.

“That’s why I’ve developed a proprietary approach to knee joint problems that involves an integrated combination of minimally invasive surgical procedures, pharmaceutical intervention and pain management. This results in faster healing times, fewer complications and less pain.”

— Donald Perry MD

Specializing in joint reconstruction and sports medicine

2051 Mayo Drive Tavares, FL 32778

352.343.2171

rpocenter.com

Swelling, discoloration and pain in the lower extremity, all symptoms of Venous Insufficiency, are serious indicators of a potentially limb-threatening, even life-threatening condition. Samantha had all three of them and missing a dance at her daughter’s wedding was the least of her worries. Limbstitute was there to help. Our team located the four damaged veins that were causing her problems and treated them. Six months later, Samantha got rave reviews for her fox trot at her baby’s wedding.

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Locations OCALA, TAVARES, SUMMERFIELD, WILLISTON AND THE VILLAGES For more information, call 352.854.0681

“The community has really embraced us. I believe they recognize our unparalleled commitment to exceptional health care, and part of our continued success can be credited to our amazing senior management staff. Their level of dedication to our patients is what makes us special and we understand and appreciate the significant value of our staff members and the important roles each of them play in delivering quality patient care.

“We make every effort to keep our patients’ best interest at heart and that’s why we want to take the time to wish the community a happy New Year. We enjoyed caring for you in 2014 and WE LOOK FORWARD TO ANOTHER GREAT YEAR OF PROUDLY SERVING OUR PATIENTS, PHYSICIANS AND THE ENTIRE COMMUNITY …

The Senior Management Staff of Promise Hospital

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Mid Florida Eye Center has been advancing eye care in Lake County for over 25 years. Now, with Laser Cataract Surgery, our patients have more options than ever before for restoring their vision and being independent of glasses. Bladeless

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YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT

Fast food, greasy pizza and ice cream may satisfy our hunger cravings now, but they’ll likely lead to a life of illness and obesity in the future. It is important to understand that the recipe for a happy, healthy life is simple: nutrition. But how do we know what to eat? What’s healthy and what’s not? Our comprehensive nutrition guide helps answer those questions while steering you away from the world of fried foods and desserts.

WRITERS: JAMES COMBS AND SHEMIR WILES

FOREVER YOUNG

If you think living beyond 100 means being bedridden, sick, and miserable, you better think again. We recently visited six local centenarians who defy those outdated stereotypes. Through laughter, positive thinking, relationships and exercise, they continue living a life of fun and fulfillment.

WRITER: JAMES COMBS

AN APP A DAY … MAY HELP YOU LIVE ANOTHER DAY

Apps these days do much more than simply entertain us. They are lifesavers … literally. From learning about side effects of various medications to sharing important health tips with fellow diabetics, apps can potentially save our lives or help us save the life of a loved one.

WRITER: GARY CORSAIR

A RAY OF HOPE

Some doctors may simply prescribe medication to mask symptoms of a disease. Innovative doctors would rather reverse the disease altogether. One of them is Dr. Shalesh Kaushal of Retina Specialty Institute. He is hosting a seminar this month that brings together some of the country’s brightest clinicians to discuss the possibility of reversing certain diseases.

WRITER: JAMES COMBS

some of possibility of reve WRITER: COMB

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION 65

health pros

Our special Health Pros section features doctors who are not only talented in their respective fields but also display a great deal of care and compassion. Find out why they are respected among colleagues and patients alike.

What other lessons can be gleaned besides the obvious “slow and steady wins the

IN EVERY ISSUE

EAT FIT/NOT FAT

110 CAN THE SODIUM TO HAVE A SOUPER MEAL

The scoop on soup: Why homemade soup delivers superior health benefits.

WRITER: ANNA GUNTER

SHAPE

112 GET ON THE BALL

If used correctly, dumbbells can help transform your body.

WRITER: KRIS HALL

LOOK

114 WINTERIZE YOUR SKIN

Read about these important tips to prepare your skin for the cold season.

WRITER: RUTH ANN BYRD

HOMEGROWN

116 VOCAL ABOUT LOCAL

Staying local and fresh is always best when it comes to food.

WRITER: MARYANN HOLDEN, CHHC AADP LPN

AROMATIC

117 CHECK YOUR OIL, MA’AM?

Learn about oils that are absolutely … well … essential.

WRITER: STEPHANIE CLUNN

HEALTHYMIND

GUIDELINES

120 A CLICK AWAY FROM MAJOR CONSEQUENCE

High-tech cheating and plagiarism may leave students in a tangled web.

WRITER: GREG FRESCOLN

BRAIN GAMES

121 WHEEL WORDS AND MORE Challenge your mind and see what kind of game you’ve got.

DESTINATION

122 RESOLVE TO NOT RESOLVE

None of your New Year’s goals are attainable without a starting point.

WRITER: SCOTT PERKINS

ENDEAVOR

123 READ ANY GOOD BOOKS LATELY

According to studies, America needs to become a nation of readers.

WRITER: GREG FRESCOLN

HEALTHYSPIRIT

DIRECTION

126 LET YOUR ‘YES’ MEAN ‘YES’ When it comes to children, how do you balance discipline and love?

WRITER: DAVE BRABHAM

MENCOURAGEMENT

128 OLD SPIES DON’T RETIRE You’re never too old to serve the Lord with purpose and courage.

WRITER: RICHARD BURQUET

NOURISHMENT

129 CHEW ON THIS Nutrition is not the only source or nourishment.

WRITER: MARYANN HOLDEN, CHHC AADP LPN

BALANCE

130 A THEME FOR 2015: SLOW DOWN

AGRICULTURE

134 EAT HEALTHY, BUT DON’T SPEND MORE MONEY

Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to eat healthy without spending a fortune.

DAVE SAYS

136 TEACH HER TO BE RESPONSIBLE FIRST Renowned financial expert Dave Ramsey offers common ‘cents’ advice on being financially smart.

WRITER: DAVE RAMSEY

PRIVACY

138 CREDIT CHECKS AND YOUR FICO SCORES

Why do collection agencies pull your credit score and how is your score affected?

WRITER: RICHAR

RICHARD BOSSHARDT

Even in our fast-paced society, we should slow down and savor the simple DR.

The old and admittedly tired, but true adage “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” now has been given new life. This perfect on -the-go preworkout snack now comes with a side of protein, magnesium, iron, and of course, a drizzle of dark chocolate. (Besides, chocolate is practically good on anything.)

More on page 113

but

– Jimmy Dean

KENDRA AKERS publisher/editor-in-chief kendra@akersmediagroup.com

DOUG AKERS vice president doug@akersmediagroup.com

JAMIE EZRA MARK chief creative officer jamie@akersmediagroup.com

SABRINA CICERI associate publisher sabrina@akersmediagroup.com

EDITORIAL // DESIGN // PHOTOGRAPHY

GARY CORSAIR executive editor gary@akersmediagroup.com

SHEMIR WILES senior staff writer shemir@akersmediagroup.com

BOB TENNANT copy chief bob@akersmediagroup.com

JAMES COMBS staff writer james@akersmediagroup.com

CAL GAINES staff photographer cal@akersmediagroup.com

ANOTHER YEAR, ANOTHER YEAR BETTER

STEVEN J. CODRARO creative director steve@akersmediagroup.com

JOSH CLARK senior designer/advertising josh@akersmediagroup.com

ANTHONY CASTO senior designer/editorial anthony@akersmediagroup.com

MICHAEL GAULIN production director michael@akersmediagroup.com

RHEYA TANNER designer rheya@akersmediagroup.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS//PHOTOGRAPHERS

RICHARD T. BOSSHARDT, MD, FACS

DAVE BRABHAM

RICHARD BURGUET

RUTH ANN BYRD

STEPHANIE CLUNN

GREG FRESCOLN

MATTHEW GAULIN

Where does the time go? It seems like just yesterday I was singing the lyrics to a popular Prince song, “Tonight I’m gonna party like it’s 1999.” When he sang that song in the 1980s, the year 1999 seemed as if it was some futuristic, sci fi world. It seems unbelievable we are now in 2015.

Much as I do every year, I enter 2015 with a new vision for health and happiness. This is an exciting time of year to make goals for your future. Dream lists have been made about home projects, financial freedom, physical health and spiritual growth.

Concentrating on these areas will direct us toward a better life … to progress and move forward with purpose. We are all designed to live this way. We are not designed to be stale and have nothing to work toward.

ANNA GUNTER KRIS HALL

MARYANN HOLDEN, LPN

FRED LOPEZ

SCOTT PERKINS

DAVE RAMSEY

RON VANDEVANDER

SALES // MARKETING

TIM MCRAE vice president of sales and marketing tim@akersmediagroup.com

MIKE STEGALL senior account representative mike@akersmediagroup.com

ANDREW AKERS account representative andrew@akersmediagroup.com

MELANIE MELVIN director of client services melanie@akerscreative.com

As always this time of year, many of us reflect on our bad eating habits during the holidays and think of ways we can incorporate new routines to become healthier and shed a few pounds.

It doesn’t matter how young or old you are … there is never a bad time to begin healthier habits. Be easy on yourself and set achievable goals so you can ultimately succeed.

I post notecards with positive affirmations around my home for us all to see and constantly be reminded of the truth for our healthier, happier future.

HEIDI RESSLER account representative heidi@akersmediagroup.com

AUBREY AKERS production coordinator aubrey@akersmediagroup.com

DEB MATLOCK account coordinator deb@akerscreative.com

ADMINISTRATION

TINA MORRISON office manager tina@akersmediagroup.com

DISTRIBUTION

SCOTT HEGG distribution manager scott.hegg@akersmediagroup.com

I’m excited about the great things coming this year with my family, my company and my community. My wish is that 2015 will be the best year yet — for all of us!

“A “ A # 2 pencil and

Sabrina

“I can do whatever a t e ve r I need to d n e e d t o do in life fe th t h ro ugh Jes s us who u s w h o strengthen s t re n g t h e n s me.”

“Be th “ Be the change you u wish to s wish to see i e in others.” thers.”

“Imayn “ I may not be where I wa e want nt tobe...but thankGodI’m to be ... but thankGod I’m not whe not where I used to be.”

“G “Godismy od is my source,soI source, soI do o no not t worry.” worry. ”

“I a “ I amnoteasilyangered.” ily angered. ”

Melissa was right to be concerned about her husband. Family history is a primary contributor to a person’s overall cardiovascular health. It’s never too early to ask your doctor for an assessment. Never too soon to ask for recommendations to help. The good news, after a thorough workup at the Institute of Cardiovascular Excellence, we were able to determine that his heart was in good shape. His cholesterol was high but it was manageable through medication. Melissa’s heart felt as if a great weight had been removed from it.

STILL LOOKING FOR ANSWERS

Here I am, in my 54th January, still seeking the answers to life’s most pressing questions.

I can only hope 2015 is the year I finally gain peace of mind and find the answers to questions that continue to keep me awake at night.

Perhaps you are on the same quest. I can’t be the only person with an inquiring mind that adds two questions for each questioned answered.

Don’t you wonder …

• Why MTV doesn’t show music videos?

• Did a Grand Prix driver design that curvy, swervy piece of U.S. 27/441 that sends you toward a pawn shop parking lot, then snaps you hard left?

• Why don’t kids have acne anymore?

• Why do people name their trucks?

• Why isn’t Bill Mallonee incredibly famous?

• Why aren’t Leesburg Krystal burgers as tasty as Ocala Krystal burgers?

• Why does…the president…speak in… sentence fragments?

• Does your chewing gum lose its flavor on the bedpost overnight?

• What percentage of Q-tips users don’t use the cotton swabs to clean their ears?

• How repressed memories can be buried in your subconscious for 30, 40 years or longer?

• Is The Villages too large?

• Why no local pizzerias serve “to-theedge” Indiana-style thin-crust pizza?

• Whether the unkempt person holding

the “please help” sign is really needy?

• Can Lake Square Mall be saved?

• Why are preseason hurricane forecasts so inaccurate?

• Was Fred Flinstone based on Ralph Kramden?

• If Mr. Toyota is actually Miss Toyota?

• Do sign spinners bring in business?

• How many people have a blooming onion cutter they haven’t used for years?

• Whatever happened to the “Dude, you’re getting a Dell” guy?

• Why can’t anyone serve a hot dog as good as the ones A&B Hotdogs sold?

• Why do I have to wear a seatbelt and your kid can bounce around in the bed of a pickup?

• Don’t Paul McCartney and Robert Redford know how silly their dyed locks look?

• Will we ever know the identity of Little Miss Lake Panasoffkee?

• Is Trenton Duckett alive?

• How much longer will James Duckett live?

• Does Umatilla Inn really have the cleanest kitchen in Lake County?

• Ginger or Mary Ann?

• Is Lamphair’s Meat & Seafood the only place I can get a great steak for under $7?

• Am I the only person upset that Grand Theft Auto V allows players to have sex with prostitutes?

• Did I really see a UFO?

• Who or what is Bill Cosby?

• Will County Road 466A ever reopen from Powell Road to U.S. 301 into Wildwood?

• When did the Rolling Stones cease being relevant?

• How do you unhurt?

• How can I make this magazine even better than it is?

Gary Corsair

LEFT UNTREATED, MINOR ACHES CAN TURN INTO A MAJOR PAIN.

As an orthopaedic surgeon and joint specialist, I know how debilitating the pain from repetitive movements of joints, muscles and tendons can be. Whether pain is due to overuse or to a sudden twist, turn or trauma, left untreated it can lead to long-term problems.

I specialize in joint replacement and restoration procedures designed to have knees, shoulders and hips working like new again. I am experienced in the latest and best treatments, including traditional and anterior-approach hip replacement, total and partial knee replacement, revision of failed knee surgeries, arthroscopy and more.

When you’re ready to get back to enjoying life without pain,

MARIO JOHN, MD.

MD

Fellowship Trained

raineed d

urgeo

. n

Orthopaedic Surgeon

Joints can wear out long before you do.

COMMON CORE CATASTROPHE

The general consensus among teachers, parents and school officials who attended a legislative delegation’s public hearing in December to speak out against the Florida Standards teaching method, was convincing: “Not one more year.”

State Sens. Alan Hays, R-Umatilla, and Dorothy Hukill, R-Port Orange, and state Reps. Larry Metz, R-Eustis; Jennifer Sullivan, R-Mount Dora; and Marlene O’Toole, R-Lady Lake allowed audience members to express their concerns about Florida Standards.

The goal of Florida Standards, according to its website, flstandards. org, is to “ensure Florida’s students graduate high school ready for success in college, career and life.” However, many educators and parents have grown concerned that the method’s standardized testing takes time from one-on-one teacher-student relationships and curricula.

“We lose a third of our school year to testing, which takes away from core instruction,” said Wes Locke, assistant principal at Spring Creek Charter School in Paisley. “We need accountability, but not at the expense of education. The state should trust me to know if my

teachers are doing a good job, and if I don’t, fire me.”

While Debbie Stivender, chairwoman of the Lake County School Board, said the board voted on a resolution to implement a three-year moratorium to determine if Florida Standards truly work, parents such as Lory Baxley disagreed with such a solution.

“Florida children are not guinea pigs,” she said. “We must reject these standards and adopt ones that have 10 years of proven results in states such as California, Massachusetts and Indiana and in Washington, D.C.”

Jane Irwin, a mother of elementary school children, implored the delegation to fix the “train wreck” that she said is Florida Standards.

“There must be a resolution put forth to end the toxic testing system that has become prevalent,” Irwin said. “It is shameful that our kids no longer get a well-rounded education that includes the arts on a regular basis in order to pay for those tests. Not to mention the stress, the anxiety and the classroom time that is lost for real authentic learning.

“When we refuse these tests as parents, we are not asking permission

to do so, we are just informing you and giving you the courtesy of letting you know and that we are very well aware of what the 14th Amendment guarantees us parents when it comes to the education of our children.”

Hays agreed something needed to be done.

“This is a mess,” he said. “We need to stop it right now.”

He also invited Irwin to come to Tallahassee.

“Ms. Irwin, would you please find the time and make the way to get to Tallahassee and say that same message with that same burst to every educational committee in the Senate and in the House?” Hays said. “They need to hear your message.”

“THERE MUST BE A RESOLUTION PUT FORTH TO END THE TOXIC TESTING SYSTEM THAT HAS BECOME PREVALENT.”

WRITER: SHEMIR WILES

PARTY AWAY THE POUNDS

Billy Blanks Jr. and Sharon Catherine Blanks are the fitness industry’s hottest husband-and-wife power duo. Through their instructional videos, they allow participants to melt off the pounds while learning the latest dance moves to hip hop, salsa, disco and more. If you’re looking to begin the new year on the right foot (pun intended), considering purchasing one or more of their instructional DVDs.

Dance With Me CardioFit: $10.42

Dance It Out Latin Heat: $14.99

Dance It Out Kids: $14.99

Fat Burning Hip Hop Mix: $9.99

Dance Party Boot Camp: $8.64

On a roll

Since we last visited him four years ago, it’s safe to say 95-year-old Donald Harshbarger has continued rolling through life.

The Leesburg resident rises at 5a.m., stretches his upper and lower body, and then roller skates four miles around Venetian Gardens. It’s a daily routine for Donald, who battles emphysema and must strap a portable liquid oxygen tank on his back to breathe.

He also suffers from arthritis in his lower back and neck and serves as a caregiver for his wife, who has Alzheimer’s disease. For him, though, roller skating brings fulfillment as he copes with life’s day-to-day struggles.

“I love getting up that early and seeing the sunrise,” he says. “Plus, my wife typically sleeps until 9a.m. so that gives me a chance to get out before she wakes up.”

Donald has been an avid roller skater for 30 years. He’s endured several spills, which is why he faithfully wears knee, elbow and wrist pads.

“Whenever I fall, I pick myself up and keep going,” he says. “I cannot walk very well, but I can certainly roller skate. Venetian Gardens is a wonderful place to enjoy my hobby because of its beauty. I don’t go to a rink because I’m afraid all the kids would try to skate around me.”

STRENGTHENING THE TEAM

Peggy Stevens, an advanced registered nurse practitioner, recently joined Florida Musculoskeletal Institute.

Her role at FMI entails working with patients, doctors and staff at the practice’s offices in The Villages and Leesburg, as well as managing the osteoporosis clinic at each location. She will also act as a direct point of contact for patients throughout their specialized medical care.

“I’m delighted to be of service to patients and help them get back on the road to feeling strong and healthy,” she says. “And it’s an honor to work with the fine doctors of FMI. I could feel from the beginning that this was the perfect place for me to utilize my training and advanced experience caring for and helping heal people with orthopedic issues.”

Stevens earned a master of arts degree in nursing from the College of Saint Scholastica in Minnesota. She is certified as both a family nurse practitioner and orthopedic nurse practitioner.

KINDNESS IS IN OUR BLOOD

Contrary to popular belief, we don’t have to begin the new year focusing entirely on ourselves. With January being National Blood Donor Month, we have an opportunity to make a profound difference in the lives of others. That’s especially true when you consider someone in this country needs blood every two seconds, according to the American Red Cross.

One Blood has four Lake County locations. Lady Lake (352.750.4088); Leesburg (352.728.1223); Tavares (352.742.2020); and Clermont (352.241.7543).

AN ORDER OF CHICKEN LIVERS AND A SIDE OF TUMS

WRITER: FRED HILTON

Ilove fried chicken livers. They are incredibly tasty, but my wife thinks they’re disgusting. She’s probably right. When I eat chicken livers, I try not to think about what they really are. (I do the same thing when I eat calamari or eel sushi.)

Unfortunately, chicken livers don’t like me as much as I like them. In fact, they hate me. A few hours after devouring a plateful of chicken livers, my stomach starts doing flip-flops and I develop an achy burning sensation around my heart. The same thing happens during the holiday season when I enjoy mass quantities of wonderful rich food and festive beverages.

The culprit here, as we all know, is heartburn. And, as we all also know, heartburn is something of a misnomer.

“Heartburn is a symptom that rarely has anything to do with your heart,” according to Dr. George Krucik in Heartline.com. “It occurs when you feel a burning sensation in your chest that is often accompanied by a bitter taste in your throat or mouth. Symptoms of heartburn may get worse after you eat a large meal or when you are lying down.”

Heartburn is caused by a food backup.

“Normally when food or liquid enters your stomach, a band of muscle at the end of your esophagus closes off the esophagus,” the “MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia” says. “If this band does not close tightly enough, food or stomach acid can back up into the esophagus. The stomach contents can irritate the esophagus and cause heartburn and other symptoms.”

SOURCES:

“What is heartburn? What causes heartburn” Medical News Today , Sept. 5, 2014, medicalnewstoday.com/articles/9151.php; “What causes heartburn? 21 possible conditions,” Dr. George Krucik, Healthline.com, healthline.com/symptom/heartburn; “Heartburn,” MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, U.S. National Library of Medic ine, nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003114.htm; “What Is Heartburn?” by Diana Rodriguez, medically reviewed by Dr. Pat F. Bass III, Digestive Health Center, Everyday Health, everydayhealth.com/dig estive-health/heartburn-and-gerd.aspx; “Diseases and Conditions-Heartburn,” by Mayo Clinic Staff, the Mayo Clinic, mayoclinic.com, mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heartburn/basics/causes/con-20019545

There is something scary about heartburn. What you think is heartburn may actually be a heart attack. If your heartburn is accompanied by things such as pain in the arm or difficulty

breathing, you should seek immediate medical help, not antacids.

Most people have heartburn occasionally but, if you experience it frequently, you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease and should see your doctor.

There are no surprises about the things that cause heartburn. Among them are chocolate, caffeine, peppermint, spearmint, spicy foods, fatty foods and alcohol. In others words, just about everything we enjoy during the holidays. To avoid heartburn, you simply don’t eat any of those yummy things — or chicken livers. You should eat smaller meals and don’t eat within three or four hours of bedtime.

On the other hand, Tums are relatively inexpensive.

FRED HILTON spent 36 years as the chief public relations officer/spokesman for James Madison University in Virginia and 10 years as a reporter and editor for The Roanoke Times in Virginia. He is now happily retired in The Villages with his interior designer wife, Leta, their Cadillac Escalade golf cart, and their dog, Paris. (Yes, that makes her Paris Hilton).

THE GOOD Reduces acid in your stomach when you’ve eaten meals that do not agree with you. THE BAD Can cause side effects such as stomach pain, vomiting, weakness and nausea.

THE “TUM”MY Neutralizing acid can actually increase risk for stomach bugs and infection because acid is our first line of defense from harmful pathogens that we ingest daily.

GOING THE EXTRA MILE

WRITER: JAMES COMBS / PHOTO: MATTHEW GAULIN

By the time many people take their morning shower or enjoy that first sip of coffee, Kristin Hall is miles ahead of them. Literally, miles.

Six days a week, she’s up at 6a.m., donning her walking attire and pounding the pavement.

Kristin has been an avid walker for 25 years and has logged 24,000 miles. The circumference of the Earth at the equator, by the way, is 24,902 miles.

The 49-year-old Oxford resident finds few things in life as enjoyable as walking.

“It’s exhilarating and that’s why I continue doing it,” says Kristin, who moved to the area in 2009 from Jamaica and serves as director of membership at Harbor Hills. “If I don’t walk, I feel sad and sleepy.”

Because she’s spent much of her career as a hotelier overseas, Kristin has enjoyed her hobby in many unique and exotic locations, spanning three continents and eight islands. She’s walked up and down

the majestic Eiffel Tower in Paris, around the architecturally stunning piazzas of Milan and Naples and in the golden-brown deserts of Oman.

Without question, though, she says walking in Oxford is every bit as enjoyable. While it lacks historic landmarks, the beautiful sights of eagles soaring overhead and cattle grazing on open pastureland make for a scenic six-mile trek. She walks 12 mph with 3-pound hand weights and a backpack that helps her stay hydrated.

“I feel so relaxed because any negative thoughts in my head are released,” she says. “Exercise is very therapeutic when life’s struggles arise.”

And for Kristin, there’s been no shortage of those struggles. In fact, the reason she began walking at age 24 was to retreat from a physically and verbally abusive husband. She was also forced to juggle a full-time career with being a single mother to her only child, Alex, who is now

attending Florida State University. And between 2011 and 2013, she found herself in a “toxic relationship that was draining and fraught with heartache.”

“Whenever I felt stress in my life, I would walk with a hand-held digital tape recorder and talk myself through the difficult moments I endured,” she says. “Following the walk, I would listen to my voice on the recorder, which empowered me to thoroughly think things through and fix the problems.”

She has used those recordings to write a book that highlights her journey through various stages of life. The book, which she hopes is released by 2016, will help victims of domestic violence.

“This book is a vehicle to share my experiences with all who care to take the journey, and along the way touch anyone feeling alone or judged for the decisions they’ve made,” she says. “We are all the same. We just have unique stories of how we get from place to place.”

KRISTIN’S THREE MOTIVATIONS FOR WALKING

• I have increased energy level. Exercise raises dopamine in your body and gives you more stamina and motivation.

• It keeps my emotional swings during menopause more manageable. During exercise, the body releases endorphins, which produce a feeling of euphoria and combats these ups and downs. Walking is therapy for my mind. As I walk, I talk out loud. I get through any challenge I may be facing by giving myself the same advice I would give a dear friend.

• Walking is a natural stress reliever. When I let anything take this time away, it has a direct impact on my physicality, and after prolonged deprivation, has had catastrophic effects.

“Men no longer need to suffer from frequent urination because they are getting older,” says Dr. James Young, a down-toearth urologist with thirty-three years of experience in treating men with prostate problems in Lake County. Although the cause of these symptoms is most likely an enlarging prostate (BPH), a normal part of the aging process in men, treatment options are more numerous and less invasive than those offered to our fathers and grandfathers.

Years ago there were two options for treating an enlarged prostate: surgical excision via an open operation (knife) or much more commonly by performing a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), commonly referred to as a “roto-rooter” by patients and physicians. Both required hospitalization as well as major anesthesia and could be fraught with complications such as bleeding, infection, loss of bladder control and even death.

“In my career I have performed over 3,000 TURPs; however, I no longer perform any,” says Dr. Young. “There are presently too many excellent alternatives to consider a hospital operation for the vast majority of patients with BPH.”

“When I see a new patient I perform a physical examination and properly evaluate the patient’s symptoms, thus diagnosing the underlying problem(s),” he says. “Next, I describe to the patient what’s normal and then explain what is abnormal with him. Lastly, I teach him his treatment options. If I’ve done a good job of teaching, he will select the correct option for himself.”

While prescribing medications for BPH can be done by primary care physicians, only urologists are trained to thoroughly

evaluate the bladder and prostate (including ruling out prostate cancer), as well as providing extremely effective minimally invasive, office-based therapies as alternatives to lifelong medical therapy.

One such option is Prostiva-RF Therapy, a procedure performed by Dr. Young in his office under local anesthesia that usually takes less than thirty minutes. Prostiva utilizes low level radiofrequency energy to ablate (destroy) the obstructing component of the enlarged prostate. “I am very happy with the results I have achieved for my patients using Prostiva-RF Therapy,” says Dr. Young, who has successfully treated more than 2,400 patients with this procedure.

“Medtronic is a $13 billion-a-year, publicly traded corporation that perfected the technology for Prostiva and produces the necessary hardware. Recently, Medtronic produced an educational DVD for international distribution to inform patients and physicians worldwide regarding the benefits of Prostiva therapy. Seven of the eight patients featured on the DVD are my patients. I am very proud Medtronic selected my practice to feature the benefits of Prostiva-RF Therapy. However it is sort of a bad news/good news thing. The bad news is neither my patients nor myself received a penny for our participation. The good news is Medtronic gave us all the DVD’s we want, so if anyone wants one all he needs to do is drop by my office at 801 Northshore Drive in Eustis, and we will give him one!”

And with an office staff with nearly as much experience as the doctor, (many have worked with Dr. Young more than twenty

years) you don’t spend a great deal of time waiting to see him. “We pride ourselves in being timely in seeing our patients. We respect our patient’s time as much as we do our own,” adds Dr. Young. “Patients appreciate this; many of our patients tell me I have the best office staff on the planet. I consider that a huge compliment.”

So if you are getting up at night and can’t get back to sleep because you are thinking about what may be wrong with you, it’s time to check in with Dr. Young and have him check you out.

“Many men accept frequent bladder urges as part of aging. And while it is part of the aging process, it’s not like death and taxes. There is something you can do about it,” he says. JAMES

Practicing in Lake County for over 33 years with extensive experience in evaluation and management of prostate problems.

What’s on Healthy Living’s menu this month? We’re serving up some important nutritional information for you to chew on.

WRITERS: JAMES COMBS+SHEMIR WILES

Your diet affects both your body and mind. It plays an instrumental role in how you look physically and how you feel mentally. Fact is, you can spend five minutes with someone and determine if he or she is receiving proper nutrition just by assessing the body and determining the mood.

Eating isn’t about fulfi lling our appetites in the moment; it’s about sustaining a healthy life.

Why?

Simple. Nutrition benefits our health on a cellular level. The human body has trillions of cells, which form body tissue and make up the organs, such as the heart, liver and lungs. Without proper nutrition, cells cannot operate efficiently and

the functions of tissues and organs become compromised. That can result in disease. Conversely, when you feed your cells proper nutrients, you help your entire body function optimally.

January is when many people begin an important journey to a healthier lifestyle. Since nutrition is undoubtedly the most important component to healthy living, we’re offering some assistance.

This comprehensive nutrition guide is full of tasty tidbits, flavorful facts and succulent statistics to help you make wiser food choices. It offers the perfect recipe for a happier, healthier life. Bon appétit.

Water is unquestionably the most important nutrient we can give our bodies. A human can last weeks without food, but only five to seven days without water. The roles of water in the human body are endless. For starters, it washes away dirt and grime in our eyes, keeps our joints lubricated, helps regulate temperature and maintains electrolyte balance.

What’s ON TAP?

Spring water

The name evokes images of water rushing off a snowcapped mountain. But that’s misleading. According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, spring water contains contaminants such as coliform, arsenic and phthalates. Often, bottled water is labeled as spring water but is really coming from a municipal source and does not have the highest levels of purity.

YOUR BODY by the drop

MANY PEOPLE DRINK DISTILLED WATER

for detoxification and fasting programs. This type of water is excellent for cleaning all the body’s cells, organs and fluids. It also eliminates many harmful substances.

SOURCE: ecclesia.org/truth/water.html

Purified water

Again, the name is misleading. Purified water contains no minerals and is also an active absorber of carbon dioxide when it comes into contact with air. That makes the water very acidic. Organs, tissues and cells do not like being dipped in acid.

Distilled water

This water goes through a rigorous distillation process that includes boiling the water, capturing the steam and condensing it back into water. There are no bacteria, additives or contaminants. As a result, distilled water comes the closest to the definition of pure drinking water.

According to the website ecohealthwellness.com, fasting with purified water “can cause rapid loss of electrolytes and trace minerals like magnesium. Deficiencies of these minerals can cause irregular heartbeat and high blood pressure.”

ts-the-difference-between-distilled-water-spring-water-and-purifi

PUREsweetness

When life hands you a bunch of lemons, make lemonade. When life hands you health issues, drink lemon water. You are likely unaware of the following health benefits that lemon water offers.

HOW MUCH LEMON SHOULD I USE?

SOURCES: people.chem.duke.edu/~jds/cruise_chem/water/watdiet.html; ecohealthwellness.com/weight-loss-blog/why-purifi ed-water-is -bad-for-you/; durastill.com/myths.html; endlesswaters.com/distilled-or-purifi ed-water; mnn.com/your-home/at-home/questions/wha

• Lemons contain vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system.

• Lemons also contain potassium, which helps the heart, brain and nerves achieve optimal function.

• Lemons loosen toxins in your digestive tract, relieving symptoms of heartburn, burping and bloating.

• Lemons flush out toxins in your body, thus stimulating the liver.

• Lemons contain antioxidants that decrease wrinkles and blemishes on the skin.

• Lemons contain pectin fiber, which reduce hunger cravings.

Know YOUR LIMITS

People less than 150 pounds: Squeeze half a lemon into a glass of water.

More than 150 pounds: Squeeze an entire lemon into a glass of water.

SOURCE: lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/11-benefits-lemonwater-you-didnt-know-about.html

Consumption of large amounts of water very quickly (for example, 13 cups in four hours, as some marathon runners have done) can result in a state of hyper hydration that can actually be dangerous to a person’s health and can even result in death.

— ANNA GUNTER, outpatient dietitian at Florida Hospital Waterman

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Get headaches? Water can prevent and alleviate headaches as well as joint or back pain. With any symptom or ailment, the first thing to try is drinking more water; you might be surprised! Water is absolutely essential to our body’s survival. It leads to better health by flushing out toxins that can cause diseases. We should be drinking at least half our body weight in ounces of water.

— JAIME ALONZO, a health coach at Total Nutrition and Therapeutics, talks about the importance of water.

There are three types of nutrients that serve as essential energy sources in the human body: proteins, carbohydrates and fats.

Proteins are large molecules that consist of amino acids, which help the cells in our body function properly. Protein is the body’s building block, and all of our organs — as well as muscles, bone, skin, hair and nails — are built from proteins. The immune system, digestive system and blood all need protein for optimal function. The body generally does not store protein, making it an essential part of our diet.

Life expectancy would grow by leaps and bounds if green vegetables smelled as good as BACON.

— DOUG LARSON

Make an EGG-CELLENT decision

Of all food, including beef, protein in eggs has the highest biological value, a measure of how well it supports your body’s protein needs.

BEST WAY TO COOK AN EGG:

Soft-boiled, because the fats and nutrients in the yolk have three protective layers from oxidation — the water, eggshell and egg white. Thus, all the healthy vitamins and minerals — including vitamins A, B12, riboflavin and iron — are preserved.

WORST WAY TO COOK AN EGG:

Scrambled, because the fats and proteins are being chopped into tiny particles and being directly exposed to heat and oxygenation. Fats in conventional eggs are already pro-inflammatory and do not need additional oxidation.

SOURCE: thepaleofix.com/7-ways-how-to-cook-eggs/

Protein is the building block of life! Every time you eat a meal with protein, it’s broken down into essential amino acids that your body uses to repair, build up and maintain itself. It keeps you fuller longer and helps with weight management. If you are typically a carb eater for breakfast, try switching it up for a protein-packed breakfast instead and see if you like this new experiment.

— JAIME ALONZO

GOODvs.BAD

• Organic chicken and eggs.

• Antibiotic-free and hormonefree meat from grass-fed, free-range livestock.

• Unpasteurized, raw dairy products.

• Wild, mercury-free fish.

• Sprouted nuts and seeds.

• Plant sources such as organic beans and whole grains.

• Meat from livestock injected with hormones and antibiotics and provided unhealthy, unnatural feed.

• Poultry from caged chickens that are not allowed to eat a natural diet or roam freely.

• Farm-raised fish that are fed unnatural land-based diets contain little omega-3 essential fatty acids.

SOURCE: naturopathconnect.com/articles/protein-diet/

WHERE’S THE BEEF?

We all know meat contains high amounts of proteins, but where do vegetarians get their protein sources? Here are 10 of the best meatless high protein foods.

GRAMS OF PROTEIN PER:

COTTAGE CHEESE QUINOA PUMPKIN SEEDS DRIED BEANS

SOY MILK

GREEK YOGURT PEANUT BUTTER SEITAN ALMONDS

SOURCE: cookinglight.com/food/vegetarian/protein-forvegetarians/almonds

You have simple carbohydrates and complex carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates, which are typically absorbed faster in the body, are found in fruits, vegetables and milk products, as well as processed foods like candy, cookies and soda. Complex carbohydrates include starches and fiber and must be digested before being used as energy.

SOURCE: fitday.com/fitness-articles/nutrition/calories/ what-are-carbs-how-they-work-and-how-to-get-them-towork-for-you.html#b

Carbohydrates are organic compounds that contain sugars. Your body breaks down carbohydrates you eat to produce glucose and give you energy. Despite the increasingly popular perception carbs are evil, the reality is they provide fuel that keeps your body moving, much like gasoline powers a car.

BLUEBERRY HILL Find your thrill on

If you’re looking for a gluten-free way to satisfy your carb craving, consider the following recipe for blueberry coffee cake.

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups The Pure Pantry Organic All-Purpose Baking Mix

½ teaspoon sea salt

½ teaspoon nutmeg

CARBOHYDRATES 2 TYPES OF CARBS:

½ cup coconut oil or butter

½ c. brown sugar or coconut sugar

3 large eggs, beaten, or egg replacer

½ cup sour cream or sour cream substitute

3 tablespoons milk of choice (rice, almond or regular)

1 teaspoon lemon zest

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1½ cups organic blueberries, preferably fresh but frozen can be substituted if defrosted and drained

CRUMB TOPPING:

¾ cup The Pure Pantry Organic All-Purpose Baking Mix

1/3 cup coconut oil or butter

1 tablespoon brown sugar or coconut sugar

INSTRUCTIONS:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine baking mix, salt and nutmeg in large mixing bowl. In a medium mixing bowl, beat coconut oil (or butter). Add brown sugar (or coconut sugar) and cream together. Add eggs one at a time, blending after each addition. With mixer on low, add sour cream (or non-dairy substitute), milk, vanilla and lemon zest.

Gently fold in blueberries with spoon. Pour into greased Bundt pan or 9 x 11 inch baking dish.

Prepare crumb topping by blending coconut oil (or butter) with baking mix and sugar until mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs. Sprinkle crumb mixture on top of cake.

Bake for 30 minutes or until tester comes out clean. Cool before serving.

SOURCE: thepurepantry.com/blogging/the-thrill-of-blueberries/

CHOOSE YOUR CARBS CAREFULLY

Choose healthy carbs that are high in fiber and are digested slowly. Good carbs are whole foods — foods that spoil, rot and don’t have a nutrition label (in other words, made from nature).

Bad carbs are manmade or made in a factory and lead to many more health problems.

— JAIME ALONZO

Refined carbs are those full of sugar and stripped of all nutrients. White bread, biscuits and candies are perfect examples. What makes them unhealthy is that they pack plenty of calories but lack nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and fibers. When consuming refined carbs, you are absorbing sugar straight into your bloodstream, which raises your blood-sugar level.

Unrefined carbs, such as vegetables and fruits, contain lots of nutrients like antioxidants, minerals, vitamins and fiber — all necessary to help our body achieve optimal function. These nutrients also help fight inflammation and improve our digestive system, heart and bone health.

Low-carbohydrate diets might seem the logical approach to lowering blood sugar in people with diabetes. However, foods that contain carbohydrates are important sources of energy, fiber, vitamins and minerals. Therefore foods that contain carbohydrate are important components of the diet for individuals with diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Association, a dietary pattern that includes carbohydrate from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and low-fat milk is encouraged for good health.

— ANNA GUNTER

GOODvs.BAD carbs

• Whole wheat pasta

• Barley

• Fruits and vegetables

• Low-fat dairy products

• Legumes such as beans, soybeans, peas and lentils.

• Whole grains

• Soda

• Candy

• Artificial syrups

• Sugar

• White rice, white bread and white pasta

• Potatoes

• Pastries and desserts

SOURCES: healthyeating.sfgate.com/list-healthy-carbs-7308.html; everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/101/nutrition-basics/ good-carbs-bad-carbs.aspx

SODIUM&SALT FATS

While most probably think of fat as the bane of human existence (especially if your clothes aren’t quite fitting anymore), it actually is a nutrient that is crucial for body function. Fat gives us energy and helps our body absorb certain vitamins, such as A, D, E and K. However, the key to consuming fat is knowing which ones are good for us and which ones are toxic.

FAT

ISN’T ALWAYS A BAD THING.

The following foods are a great source for fats that are healthy, not harmful:

SALMON: This fatty fish comes full of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help lower elevated triglyceride levels. (Translation: you lower your risk for heart disease.)

tty sh t y acids vated ation: you y isease.) ase.)

AVOCADO: While high in calories, avocados have plenty of monounsaturated fat. When eaten in moderation, monounsaturated fat can help lower the levels of bad cholesterol in your body.

These are undoubtedly two dirty words in the world of nutrition … and for good reason. Increased amounts of either in the body can lead to adverse health effects. That said, they’re not all bad. Sodium, for example, is important to maintain normal muscle and nerve function. Likewise, salt helps retain water in the body, stimulates muscle contraction and aids in digestion and absorption.

SODIUM by the numbers

3,400 in milligrams, the amount of sodium the average American eats daily.

1,500 in milligrams, the American Heart Association’s recommended amount of daily sodium intake.

77.9

in millions, the number of American adults with high blood pressure, a side effect of high sodium intake.

SOURCE: American Heart Association

NOT WORTH ONE’S SALT

FLAXSEED: These little seeds of healthy fat are easy to sprinkle onto anything. Oatmeal, yogurt, salad — the possibilities are endless.

se e asy to atmeal, ibilities

Nine of 10 Americans consume too much sodium, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. High sodium levels can lead to:

High blood pressure

Heart failure

Osteoporosis

Kidney stones and renal failure

Dehydration

BEANS: Whether you love kidney or soybeans, it doesn’t matter. What matters is beans contain plenty of omega-3s, which help not only your body but also your mood.

Breathing failure

Gastric ulcers

Electrolyte and hormonal imbalance

TABLE: Because it is heavily ground, most of the impurities and trace minerals in table salt are removed. Sodium chloride makes up 97 percent of table salt. Iodine is often added to table salt, which is important because iodine deficiency is a leading cause of hypothyroidism throughout the world.

SALT of the earth healthy HIMALAYAN

SEA: Sea salt is made by evaporating seawater and contains trace minerals such as potassium, iron and zinc. Unfortunately, it also contains trace amounts of heavy metals such as lead due to the pollution of oceans. The darker the sea salt, the more chance of it having a higher concentration of impurities.

KOSHER: Originally used for religious purposes, Kosher salt has a large, flaky, coarse structure that is easier to pinch and measure with your fingers. It is less processed and therefore contains fewer additives such as anti-caking agents and iodine. In addition, Kosher salt is less salty than table salt.

Fighting the BIG ‘C’

Pure Himalayan salt is harvested from Pakistan’s Khewra Salt Mine, the second largest salt mine in the world. It contains more than 80 essential minerals — including calcium, iron, potassium and magnesium — and has lower amounts of sodium than regular salt. There are no contaminants.

Himalayan salt has numerous health benefits. It improves your body’s pH balance, helps your body maintain intracellular water levels, improves nervous system function, enhances nutrient absorption and minimizes fluid retention.

Large studies have revealed that those who eat garlic regularly are less likely to develop esophagus, stomach and colon cancer.

If you simply cannot eat a meal without salt, you should at least understand the differences between various kinds of salt.

Taking preventive measures is the best way to fight cancer. Fortunately, the battle can be waged through nutrition. Here are 10 of the top cancer food fighters.

2 BERRIES

Blueberries, strawberries and blackberries contain powerful antioxidants that can halt bodily processes that create free radicals which damage your cells.

ries contain dily e

3 TOMATOES

Research has indicated tomatoes can reduce a man’s chance of getting prostate cancer. Tomatoes contain a high amount of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.

4 CRUCIFEROUS VEGETABLES

Broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower are believed to help shield people from cancer-causing chemicals, slow the growth of tumors and even encourage cancer cells to die.

5 GREEN TEA

This drink contains catechins, a group of antioxidants that have been found to shrink tumors and reduce tumor cell growth in lab studies.

6 WHOLE GRAINS

Oatmeal, barley, brown rice and whole-wheat bread contain lots of fiber and antioxidants. A large study of 500,000 people found that eating more whole grains may lower the risk of colorectal cancer.

7 TUMERIC

8 LEAFY GREEN VEGGIES

Spinach, collard greens, lettuce and mustard greens contain a good amount of the antioxidants beta-carotene and lutein. These green vegetables may limit the growth of some kinds of cancer cells, according to the American Institute for Cancer Research.

This orange-colored spice contains an ingredient called curcumin, which has been found in lab studies to inhibit certain kinds of cancer cells. It has also shrunk tumors in some animals.

9 GRAPES

The skin on red grapes is a rich source of an antioxidant called resveratrol, which the National Cancer Institute says may be useful in keeping cancer from occurring or spreading.

10 BEANS

Pinto and kidney beans contain antioxidants and fiber. The American Cancer Society says eating a high-fiber diet can help reduce risk of cancer.

FISHING for better health

Don’t wade through murky waters trying to figure out what types of fish are the healthiest. We’ve already reeled in the answer.

WILD SALMON: This fish is high in omega-3 fatty acids, ranging from 750 milligrams to 1,270 milligrams per serving. Salmon is also a good source of vitamin D.

FARMED RAINBOW TROUT: You’ll take in 866 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids per a 75-gram serving. It is high in vitamin B12, which aids in heart health and nerve function.

ATLANTIC MACKEREL: This is packed with omega-3 fatty acids — 982 milligrams per a 75-gram serving. This is another fish high in vitamin B12 (six times the recommended daily value). Word of caution: Beware of pickled or smoked mackerel due to the high sodium content.

ALBACORE TUNA: Albacore tuna that are troll- or polecaught in the United States or British Columbia are typically smaller and have less mercury and contaminant ratings than other kinds of tuna. You need to research to find out how your fish was caught, or you can look for the Marine Stewardship Council blue eco label.

FARMED OYSTERS: They contain 300 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids per a 3-ounce serving and contain about one-third of the recommended daily value of iron.

SOURCES: besthealthmag.ca/eat-well/healthy-eating/the-best-fish-to-eat?slide=6; eatingwell.com/blogs/health_blog/6_of_the_ healthiest_fish_to_eat_and_6_to_avoid

COKES A DAY

After hearing actor Jude Law was drinking 10 12-ounce cans of Coke a day to gain weight for a movie role, 50-year-old George Prior of Los Angeles decided to drink that amount of soda for one month to raise awareness about how much sugar people drink every day, and how unhealthy it is.

“You’re probably thinking everyone knows it wouldn’t be healthy to drink 10 Cokes a day, and, besides, I only drink four Cokes a day,’” he wrote on his website, 10cokesaday. com. “That’s true, perhaps you’re only drinking four Cokes, but if you add in the two glasses of orange juice, the two sweetened coffee drinks from Starbucks, the 16-ounce Odwalla drink, the two ‘healthy’ brand iced teas and the $9 fruit smoothie you waited 10 minutes in line for, you’ve made my 10 Cokes look like child’s play.”

Before the 30-day soda challenge, Prior weighed 168 pounds with a body fat percentage of 9 percent. Three hundred sodas later, he had a final weight gain of 23 pounds with an increased body fat percentage of 16 percent.

Don’t eat anything your great grandma wouldn’t recognize. In other words, when you are reading a label and don’t know what it is, don’t put it in your body!

— JAIME ALONZO

SUPERFOOD STATUS

Everyone knows it’s important to eat well, but is it possible some foods could be more healthful than others? These powerhouse ingredients are more commonly known as superfoods. They pack a wallop when it comes to nutrition and giving your body a boost. While most have heard of the benefits of common superfoods like salmon and blueberries, there are lesser-known superfoods that should also be on your radar. Here’s just a few to consider:

SEAWEED

Forget veggies that grow on land, sea-grown vegetables like seaweed are packed full of minerals. In fact, some types of seaweed have more iron than beef and more calcium than cheese. Furthermore, seaweed is said to possess healing properties, which include lowering cholesterol, reducing water retention and promoting weight loss.

KEFIR

What is kefir, you ask? It’s a cultured dairy drink that tastes like yogurt and contains a lot of important amino acids, vitamins and minerals. It’s rich in probiotics, which help boost the immune system and aid in digestion, and uses carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to promote cell growth, maintenance and energy.

GOJI BERRIES

These bright orange-red berries, also known as wolfberries, are said to be the key to the fountain of youth. Some studies have shown drinking goji berry juice could improve one’s mental health, athleticism, happiness and quality of sleep.

BARLEY

Everyone touts brown rice, but what about its lesser-known cousin, barley? This complex carb not only lowers cholesterol and blood pressure in people who suffer from high cholesterol, it also contains eight times the amount of fiber as brown rice, which helps keep appetites in check longer.

WHEATGRASS

The powers of wheatgrass are nothing short of remarkable. Just two ounces have the same nutritional value as five pounds of the best raw organic vegetables.

Need more vitamin A? Wheatgrass has twice the amount as carrots. And as for vitamin C, which is popular during flu season, wheatgrass is king, putting oranges to shame.

It also contains the full spectrum of B vitamins, as well as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, amino acids, potassium, chlorophyll and protein.

Wheatgrass fans say its nutrient-rich content boosts immunity, kills harmful bacteria in the digestive system and treat common ailments such as anemia, diabetes, constipation, ulcerative colitis and joint pain.

JUICING VS. BLENDING

Both juicing and blending have become popular. We’re not saying either way is bad, but here’s something to consider.

When juicing, you remove the insoluble fiber. While fiber is good for the body, it slows down the absorption of nutrients. With juicing, you extract 70 percent of the nutrition into your glass, and because there is no insoluble fiber, your body absorbs 100 percent of the nutrients, vitamins and minerals found in vegetables. Thus, juicing nourishes and restores our bodies at a cellular level

In addition, vegetables tend to taste milder when they’re juiced because juicers filter out the pulp, skin, seeds and stems.

SOURCE: rebootwithjoe.com/juicing-vs-blending-facts/

FOR

RE

There’s little question living to be 100 or older requires staying active and eating healthy.

But Healthy Living recently spoke with six Lake County centenarians and found they had a few extra tricks up their sleeve.

It appears optimism, laughter, friendship and positive thinking all play a big role, as well.

This new breed of seniors is living proof that

a century of living doesn’t mean being sick and bedridden. These six examples serve as role models for healthy aging as they continue living active lives physically and mentally — and have plenty of fun doing it.

Read their amazing stories and understand why life doesn’t end at 100.

WRITER+PHOTOS: JAMES COMBS

ANITA

DOEBLER

We may all scream for ice cream, but 106-year-old Anita Doebler seems to live for it.

Most days, she can be found somewhere inside Brookdale at Tavares enjoying a scoop of her favorite flavor — chocolate.

“Ice cream is the love of my life,” she says. “Eating ice cream gives me something to look forward to every day.”

At 106, there’s certainly nothing wrong with being smitten with ice cream. Just call it a sweet addiction.

Not surprisingly, ice cream dominates the conversation as she recalls her favorite life memories. Her love affair with the popular frozen treat began as a girl working at her parents’ ice cream parlor in Tonawanda, New York.

“I helped them out in the parlor and always enjoyed eating the ice cream,” she says. “Back in those days ice cream came in 5-gallon containers. Frozen ice was placed around each container, so we’d have to beat it with a hammer.”

It would be a stretch to say ice cream has contributed to her long life. And Anita is the fi rst to admit she’s not always a healthy eater.

“The other day I cleared everything on my plate,” she says proudly, “except broccoli.”

However, laughter may be Anita’s key to longevity. It’s rare you’ll see her without a smile, and she particularly enjoys laughing at herself.

“Several weeks ago a minister was preaching at our community on Sunday,” she says. “I was in the front row and slept throughout the entire sermon. I never heard a word he said and fi nally

ous in bingo and dominoes, as well.

“I used to do crossword puzzles all the time but now they’re a nuisance,” she says, laughing. “I don’t do them anymore.”

Another thing Anita enjoys is going outside with her walker and tending to the rose bush planted for her when she reached 105.

“I told them not to plant me another rose bush until I’m 110,” she says.

Without question, staff members and residents at Brookdale at Tavares are drawn to her happy-go-lucky attitude.

“She’s always happy and just goes with the flow,” says Executive Director Lynn Haynes. “She gets along with anybody and everybody.”

woke up when he quit talking. Maybe I was just praying with my eyes closed. I get a chuckle from some of the crazy things I do.”

She is also actively engaged in mind-stimulating activities. After moving to Brookdale at Tavares more than two years ago, Anita introduced the community to the card game Rummikub and remains the undisputed champion. She often emerges victori-

Anita was born July 25, 1908. During her young adult years, she served as a housewife, raising three boys and a girl. She was also a faithful churchgoer and always remained independent. As a matter of fact, she drove an automobile until reaching 100, then made the conscious decision to stop.

“I figured there were already enough crazy drivers on the road,” she jokes. “Why should I add to that number?”

“Ice cream is the love of my life”

OLAF LARSON

For anyone who asks him how he lived to be 104, Olaf Larson has a stock answer.

“Good genes. Good doctors. Good family. Good friends. Good luck.”

But there’s one other answer, and it’s one he really emphasizes.

“Always do things that you’re passionate about in life,” says Olaf, a resident at Waterman Village who lives by himself. “Engaging in activities near and dear to your heart will enrich your life and help you feel fulfilled.”

For Olaf, born Feb. 26, 1910, one activity he always loved is writing. At age 98, he authored a book that highlights his life as a boy on a Wisconsin farm. The 176page book, titled “When Horses Pulled the Plow,” took him three months to write and was published by University of Wisconsin Press-Publisher.

“I wrote the book in longhand and had my granddaughter type it on a computer so I would have a hard copy,” he says. “The reason I wrote the book is because my grandchildren always asked me what it was like to live on a farm. I figured I could do my part in preserving a little bit of American history.”

Once the book was published, Olaf enthusiastically promoted it. He made public appearances at a Rotary Club in Orlando and also spoke to members of Waterman Village’s book club.

“That was lots of fun because I was able to share a little bit of my story about life on the farm,” he says. “When I was 12 my dad told me it was time to go to work. I helped cultivate corn, helped with livestock and helped move bales of hay. I also rode a pony every day to a one-room, one-teacher school.”

Olaf has authored five books, four of

which were written after he retired as a rural sociology professor at Cornell University in 1975.

“I was technically retired but kept working,” he says. “My other books were researched based and dealt with sociology topics. Keeping mentally active all these years has certainly played a role in helping me to live this long.”

Today, Olaf keeps his mind sharp by managing his medications, paying the bills and watching the evening news to stay abreast of what’s happening around the world. He is also a faithful “Jeopardy” fan.

“I typically can answer one out of every five questions on “Jeopardy,” he says. “It really surprises me how contestants don’t know much about American history. Of course, I don’t do really well when the questions center around today’s popular music.”

Olaf rises each morning at 7:30, dresses himself and eats cereal. Then, he performs a variety of chair exercises to stretch and strengthen his arms and legs. That helps keep him limber enough to move around on a walker.

Although Olaf lost his wife, Clair, three years ago, he is rarely lonely. He frequently has visitors such as Betty Cox, a resident of Zellwood who comes to his home four times a week. They met when Betty worked for a home health agency and became dear friends.

“His upbeat attitude inspires me, and his mind is probably sharper than people half his age.”

Betty is helping plan for Olaf’s 105th birthday party, which will be attended by family and friends, as well as his doctors and accountants.

“I was technically retired but work-kept ing”

ELIZABETH

CROMER

In an era when women were considered primarily homemakers, Elizabeth Cromer decided early in life she would tackle much bigger challenges.

For her, mops and brooms gave way to cleats and shoulder pads. She played football against the big boys as a ninth-grader at Union Area High School in New Castle, Pennsylvania.

“I was the only girl on the entire team and one of the top players,” she recalls. “The boys treated me nice, but I’m not sure if they liked me very much, because I was very difficult to tackle. I would get out there on that field and run like crazy.”

Elizabeth, who turned 100 in September, has not slowed down much. A resident of The Cove at Tavares Village, Elizabeth faithfully takes morning and afternoon walks outside with the assistance of a walker.

Excuses to avoid exercises simply don’t fly with this fearless centenarian, who has been an avid walker her entire life.

“If it’s raining, I just take my walk inside the facility or I’ll patiently wait for the rain to stop and walk outside,” she says. “I’ve always been active and always will be. That’s what keeps a person alive. If you remain idle as you grow older, you might as well be dead.”

Her active lifestyle seems to have worked well for Elizabeth, who wears no glasses, contacts or hearing aids.

“I wake up each morning feeling great,” she says. “My heart is good, my lungs are good and my eyesight is good. I really have nothing to complain about. If you have the good Lord on your side, then you are already on top.”

Elizabeth was born Sept. 7, 1914. She owned a bridal shop in Pennsylvania and often coordinated events for her church.

“I got church members together for games and activities,” says Elizabeth, who has one daughter and two grandchildren. “I was very active in the church and always doing something. I hated being idle.”

That still holds true today.

“You remain active and you remain alive,” she says. “It’s that simple. I despise being inactive because it makes me feel worthless. I tell other people around my age that if they say they can do something, then they will achieve it.”

“My heart is good, my lungs are good and my eyesight is good. I really nothinghave complainto about.“

COUNTRIES WITH THE MOST CENTENARIANS

1) United States: 71,991

2) Japan: 44,449

3) France: 16,891

4) United Kingdom: 11,600

5) Germany: 8,839

6) Canada: 6,530

7) Spain: 5,891

8) Australia: 3,700

SOURCE: 247wallst.com/investing/2011/07/12/countries-with-the-most-people-over-100/2/

WHERE DO MOST CENTENARIANS LIVE?

RESIDENTIAL OR CARE HOME: 61%

HOSPITAL: 27%

HOME: 10%

HOSPICE CARE: .02%

SOURCE: cnn.com/2014/06/04/health/centenarian-death/

AS OF SEPTEMBER 2014, THERE WERE SIX PEOPLE ALIVE WHO WERE BORN IN THE 19TH CENTURY:

Misao Okawa of Japan was born MARCH 5, 1898.

Gertrude Weaver of the United States was born JULY 4, 1898.

Jeralean Talley of the United States was born MAY 23, 1899.

Susannah Jones of the United States was born JULY 6, 1899.

Bernice Madigan of the United States was born JULY 24, 1899.

Emma Morano of Italy was born NOV. 29, 1899.

LAW OF AVERAGES

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, life expectancy in the United States has increased to 75 YEARS, up from 67 just 15 years ago.

YOU GO GIRL IN 2010, 82% OF CENTENARIANS IN THE UNITED STATES WERE FEMALE.

THE U.S. CENSUS BUREAU ESTIMATES THERE WILL BE MORE THAN

1 MILLION

HELEN CAMPANIO

When Helen Campanio lost her husband in 1996, she made a bold promise.

“I told my family members, ‘I’m going to live to be 100,’” says Helen, a resident of The Cove at Tavares Village.

Her prediction has come true. Helen will celebrate her 100th birthday Jan. 24. As the big day nears, the accomplishment somehow seems less significant to her.

“Why should celebrating my 100th birthday feel any different from any other birthday?” she wonders. “It’s nothing more than a date.”

Despite her modesty, her achievement is indeed significant, considering she suffers from neuropathy in her legs resulting from five back operations, as well as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Some would have given in to such pain and discomfort long ago.

Not Helen.

“One reason I’m still alive is because I have family members who provide such a wonderful support system for me,” she says. “I love when they come here to visit me.”

Two frequent visitors are her son, Ralph Campanio, and his wife, Peggy. As owners of six shih tzus, they often bring one of their furry friends when they visit. It’s probably no coincidence Helen’s favorite happens to be the oldest dog, Chelsea Ann, who is 13.

“She is so loveable and enjoys cuddling with me,” Helen says. “However, she is not allowed to kiss me. That tongue isn’t coming anywhere near my face! I enjoy the dogs because they are so happy to see me. They climb right up on my lap and love being petted and talked to. They even talk back to me in their own little way.”

When she has no visitors, Helen finds

plenty of ways to keep entertained. She enjoys walking to the dining room, playing bingo with friends and completing 500-piece jigsaw puzzles.

“I also do crossword puzzles every day and make it a point to finish them,” she says. “It’s a great way to keep your mind active and stimulated.”

A native of Meadville, Pennsylvania, Helen remembers growing up on property where apple trees, pear trees and plum trees were in abundance. Her parents, who both lived into their late 80s, emphasized the importance of healthy eating. As a wife and mother of two children, Helen made it a priority to cook “healthy, well-balanced” meals that typically con-

sisted of salads, vegetables and fish.

“She has always been a wonderful mother,” Ralph says. “I think one reason she has lived to be 100 is because she is so strong and independent.”

Ralph will be one of 35 people attending Helen’s birthday party, which will be held inside The Cove at Tavares Village’s community center. Family and friends from far away as Pennsylvania and Virginia are also coming to her milestone birthday celebration.

“I really don’t think reaching 100 is that big of a deal,” she says. “I’m still here and I’m very appreciative of that, but being 100 does not make me more special than anyone else.

“I also do crossword puzzles every day and make it a topointfinish them.”

STATES WITH THE MOST CENTENARIANS AS OF 2010:

5,921

STATES WITH THE LEAST CENTENARIANS AS OF 2010: 40 72

SOURCE: money.usnews.com/money/retirement/articles/2013/01/07/what-people-who-live-to-100-have-in-common

4,605

4,090

133

DON’T STOP AT 100

COULD SHE BE THE OLDEST?

At age 127, Leandra Becerra Lumbreras of Mexico claims to be the world’s oldest living person. However, the Guinness Book of World Records will not recognize her because she lost her birth certificate.

FAVORITE FOODS OF FAMOUS CENTENARIANS

• Jeanne Louise Calment, who died in 1997 at age 122, ate two pounds of chocolate every week and drank French wine.

• The world’s oldest living man, 112-year-old Salustiano Sanchez Blazquez, attributes his supercentenarian status to eating a daily banana

• The favorite dish of 116-year-old Misao Okawa of Japan is mackerel sushi

• 114-year-old Maria Gomes Valentim of Brazil loved eating feijoada, a stew made of pork, beef, beans and vegetables.

• Pearl Cantrell, 105, says the secret to her successful aging is eating bacon every day for breakfast.

SOURCE: care2.com/greenliving/favorite-foods-of-5-famous-centenarians.html

These days, more people are living to be 110 and older. They are known as supercentenarians. Of the 74 supercentenarians worldwide, 22 live in the United States.

SOURCE: science20.com/news_articles/supercentenarians_worlds_ oldest_living_people_get_wholegenome_sequences_published-148997

If the medical community is looking for scientific proof that funny people live longer, 102-year-old Alice Livingston would be an interesting case study.

A resident of The Cove at Waterman Village, Alice is known among family and friends for her great sense of humor and readiness to offer a joke or a one-liner whenever appropriate, especially when talking about her birthday celebration in this month.

“Don’t buy me any presents,” she pleads to her niece, Pat Oberholtzer. “Well, actually you can buy me some pantyhose. Just make sure whichever ones you buy me make me look good.”

Then there’s the fond memory of growing up on her family’s farm in Lenox, Georgia.

“I loved being outside with my baby sister,” she says, “but every time I took her in the yard this crazy rooster would start chasing her. The rooster was so annoying. I remember being so happy when my mom finally killed that damn thing.”

And Alice will never forget being married to Dee, only to fall madly in love with her second husband, Bill.

“Bill stole my heart and took me from Dee,” she jokes. “That wasn’t very nice!”

While making others laugh comes naturally for Alice, she cannot say with certainty it has contributed to her longevity.

“Why am I still around? I really have no idea,” she says. “I’d like to know. Can somebody please tell me?”

Alice and Bill lived in Tampa for many years. They were avid freshwater and deep-sea fishermen who often traveled to Sanibel Island and fished for snook. Attending church together, she says, was less enjoyable.

“Bill used to snore in church,” Alice recalls. “I’d nudge him and tell him I was going to sit somewhere else if he didn’t wake up. I wasn’t about to sit through the entire service by someone who snored!”

Alice did strive to lead a healthy lifestyle. She quit smoking 40 years ago and drank cocktails only occasionally. She

has also walked frequently throughout her life and particularly enjoyed walking along the shores of Daytona Beach during summertime.

“Is that beach still there?” she asks.

Today, Alice, who moved to Lake County in 2006, enjoys watching movies in the recreation room and interacting with fellow residents. She loves receiving visits from Pat, as well as her great-niece, Kelli Hill.

LIVINGSTON ALICE

PHOTO CREDIT: CAL GAINES

“I never sweat the small stuff”

at age 85. She continued driving an automobile until she was 95. And she lived in a home by herself before moving into Lexington Park at age 97.

While many near her age are completely bedridden, Viola continues living an active life. Whenever the retirement community holds karaoke, she shares her beautiful voice and wows fellow residents with her renditions of “America the Beautiful” and “Blue Skies.” She is also a regular participant in the Bridgeport at Lake Miona Christmas Parade, where she rides in a golf cart, dons a red Santa hat and waves to spectators.

Perhaps her favorite activity is brunch each Sunday at IHOP with her daughter, Janet Schlegel, and son, Gregg Toland, both residents of The Villages.

“I always look forward to pancakes, eggs and bacon,” she says. “They taste so good!”

VIOLA TOLAND

Fido isn’t your typical pet, but he brings much joy into the life of 101-year-old Viola Toland.

She laughs and smiles as her black-andwhite furry friend, which resembles a shih tzu, rolls across the floor, giggling at anything and everything.

Fido is an electronic toy dog, but her robo-pup provides plenty of entertainment.

“Even I have to laugh at that darn thing,” says Viola, who moved into Lexington Park’s assisted-living facility four years ago.

Without question, laughing and looking at life through an optimistic lens are in-

strumental reasons Viola’s ticker continues ticking.

“I’ve never really been sick,” she says, “and the only time I’ve been in the hospital is when I had children. I feel being optimistic and laughing has helped me live a long life.”

Good genes play a role, too. Her great aunt lived to be 105, while her mother passed away at age 95.

Even as birthdays have accumulated, Viola has always remained independent. She worked as a part-time receptionist at a funeral home in Michigan before retiring

Viola was born in Benton Harbor, Michigan, on Oct. 27, 1913. She spent 31 years as a bookkeeper for a home improvement company owned by her husband, Robert. Even after his death in 1979, Viola still viewed life as an adventure to be embraced. She joined a church travel group and visited countries such as New Zealand, Australia, Scandinavia and Germany. She also took a memorable trip aboard the famous Mississippi Queen steamboat. Numerous photo albums stacked on her living room floor help evoke fond memories of her travels.

“I love looking through the albums and remembering all the great times I had,” she says. “I did not have a favorite country because they each were special in their own way.”

“I remember taking Mom to the mall when she was in her 70s and not being able to keep up with her,” Gregg says. “She was always a fast walker.”

“I never sweat the small stuff,” she says. “I just keep on living, loving and laughing.”

For her, those are the best medications to combat old age.

an [app] a day

… may help you live another day

WRITER: GARY CORSAIR

Your smartphone helps you manage finances, appointments and social life, but it can also serve an even loftier purpose: as a doctor in your pocket or nurse practitioner in your purse.

The technologically savvy are managing their health through their smartphones. And you can, too. You don’t have to be a computer whiz to have a medical whiz at your fingertips 24/7. A bevy of potentially life-saving applications has been developed, and many are free.

We’ve found some apps — most are free and compatible with both iPhone and Android-based smartphones — you may want to download. Using one or more just may save your life, or the life of another.

Note: This article does not constitute an endorsement of any app. And keep in mind that no application can take the place of face-to-face examination by qualified medical personnel. Never self-diagnose.

[First Aid]

American Red Cross

The official American Red Cross First Aid app gives you instant access to information on how to handle the most common first aid emergencies. Asthma attacks, choking, burns, diabetic incidents, bleeding and allergies are just a few of the topics covered.

The American Red Cross also offers apps for severe weather and natural disasters.

[Headache Diary]

Help your doctor help you with Headache Diary, an app that lets you track recurring headaches. This smartphone diary allows you to note time, location and duration of headaches, as well as foods you ate before the headache.

[SnoreOMeter]

Your mate’s snoring reminds you of a sawmill on a busy day. And you’re afraid his/her snoring indicates obstructive sleep apnea, which, if left untreated, can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, stroke and type 2 diabetes. SnoreOMeter records snores for up to 30 seconds, including any lapses in breathing, and even rates the decibel level.

[GoToAID] First Aid

GoToAid not only provides first aid information and instructions on what to do during a medical emergency, this app also tells you what to do when pets are hurt or in distress.

[Microdemex]

For iPhone users, Microdemex allows you to search specific drugs to determine how they should be taken and possible side effects.

[MyChart]

The MyChart app keeps your medical records at your fingertips. You can even order prescriptions and make doctor appointments.

[Diabetic Connect]

This app connects diabetics so they can chat, share information, learn together and provide support.

[Allergy FT]

Allergy suffers rejoice. The Allergy FT app helps world travelers avoid getting sick by eating things they shouldn’t. Just type in your food allergies, click the translate button and show the screen to your waiter.

[Sickweather]

You know the flu bug is lurking around the corner somewhere, just waiting to ruin you work week, weekend dinner date or vacation. If only you knew where. Now, perhaps you can. The Sickweather app scours social media for posts with key words like “flu” and “sick” and tells you where a high preponderance of people are sniffling, coughing and sneezing.

[Circle of 6]

Anyone who’s experienced the dread of walking through a dark alley or empty parking lot at night will appreciate the Circle of 6 app, especially those who don’t carry a weapon or forget their pepper spray. Circle of 6 developers claim their app is a tool to prevent robbery, domestic violence, sexual assault and other violent crimes.

Circle of 6 notifies six chosen friends if you need a ride to get out of unpleasant situations and advice if confronted with issues resulting in violent actions. It also dials a preset hot line for emergencies by simply clicking one icon.

Circle of 6 app won the White House’s Apps Against Abuse Technology Challenge in 2011 and Avon Foundation’s Ending Violence @ Home App Challenge in 2012.

[Watch Over Me]

The Watch Over Me app tracks your location every minute as you travel and sends out emergency alerts (with a video screen capture and your exact location) to your loved ones if you don’t reach your destination on time. And if you can’t dial when you’re in danger, just shake your smartphone and Watch Over Me will send an emergency alert. One user scared away a would-be attacker by showing him her phone had just captured him on video and the police had been alerted.

[bSafe]

Personal Safety App

bSafe allows you to select unlimited number of friends (“Guardians”) to contact in emergencies, video and voice functions to record the incident, a location tracker, a warning siren, a locator to find other users to walk with and an alarm if you fail to check in with the app on time.

FOR SUPERIOR CARE

As an electrophysiologist, Dr. Vatsal Inamdar blends the best of both worlds by utilizing comprehensive, state-of-the-art treatments and displaying compassionate, personalized care.

“One of the things I like most about being a doctor is spending necessary time with patients and equipping them with the knowledge and tools to improve their lifestyles and health,” he says. “I feel that patient education is vitally important. It’s all about delivering superior care.”

That patient-centered approach explains why the team at Heart of the Villages is excited about Dr. Inamdar joining the practice. He officially started on December 10.

“I feel honored to be part of Heart of the Villages because it is a remarkable practice and provides outstanding patient care. The practice also features a great

group of physicians and staff who come together and deliver premier cardiovascular care. I welcome the opportunity to join them as we work to improve the health of The Villages and surrounding area.”

Dr. Inamdar, who has spent most of his life in the United States, completed both his residency and cardiology fellowship at Winthrop University Hospital in Long Island. Afterward, he completed his electrophysiology fellowship at Mayo Clinic in Arizona and received extensive training in complex arrhythmia management and device implantation. He completed an additional fellowship in echocardiography at the University of Alabama-Birmingham while training under Dr. Navin Nanda, a pioneer in the field of echocardiography.

As an electrophysiologist, Dr. Inamdar is a heart doctor who specializes in treating abnormal heart rhythms. If the heart is beating too slow, he may implant a pacemaker. When medicine fails to adequately treat a rapidly beating heart, he performs a procedure known as radiofrequency ablation. During this procedure, a catheter is guided to the area of the abnormal electrical activity and radiofrequency energy is used to byrn the tissue that triggers the abnormal heart rhythm.

He treats problems such as atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia, atrial flutter, ventricular tachycardia and premature ventricular contraction.

graphy. a rt doctor h ms. If the m aker. ly req uenc y ided to the ofreq uenc y e abnormal cular on.

r

s to t he t rician.”

Without question, Dr. Inamdar has a passion for cardiovascular disease and treatment as it relates to the electricity of the heart. He is truly a skilled “electrician.”

g uing

“Electrophysiology has always been very intriguing to me,” he says. “I love being in this field because of the challenge and complexity of the field. Another reason I love it is because I can offer a cure for disease rather than simply prescribing medication to a patient for the rest of his or her life just to mask symptoms.”

Beyond his high level of training and expertise, Dr. Inamdar is also passionate about making a patient’s visit as pleasant and comfortable as possible.

“I want patients to know they are receiving top-of-the-line care with careful attention to evidence-based medicine. I treat each patient as a member of my family and always take the time to listen to their needs and address their questions and concerns.”

Dr. Inamdar has worked diligently to ensure he can communicate with patients easily and effectively.

e t he ason I love han h is or her , Dr. nt’s visit as -of-t he-l ine d icine. ta ke e can .

New dance trend or overactive bladder?

Do you use the bathroom more than eight times a day or two times at night? Do you go to the bathroom whenever you’re near one just in case? You may have a condition called "overactive bladder." The good news is that the condition can be treated -- without drugs or surgery! The better news? Less time in the bathroom means more time setting dance trends.

Find time on your dance card to talk to your Urologist about Urgent PC by Uroplasty or attend a free Overactive Bladder seminar. Visit oabseminars.com for upcoming dates.

A ray of

HOPE

WRITER

We’ve been told many diseases are chronic, have no cure and will worsen with age.

Patients are prescribed medication for the rest of their lives to manage symptoms of these illnesses and in some cases, the medications produce side effects, creating a need for additional medication.

Now, a group of innovative doctors will gather to discuss the possibilities of reversing diseases, rather than masking their symptoms.

Now possib sympt

Dr. S of Cen and cl revers macul

Dr. Shalesh Kaushal of Retina Specialty Institute, with the help of Central Florida Health Alliance, will host an educational symposium featuring some of the nation’s pre-eminent researchers and clinicians. The unique event will explore the possibilities of reversing diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, Alzheimer’s, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.

The will be

The symposium, titled “Can Chronic Diseases be Reversed?” will be held Jan. 10 across the highway from The Villages Region-

WRITER: JAMES COMBS PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ

al Hospital. Kaushal will serve as moderator.

“Medicine is good at treating symptoms but not the underlying cause,” Kaushal says. “My colleagues who are coming to this symposium believe that diseases can be reversed. This symposium represents a broader vision of where I see the future of retinal disease therapies, as well as other common chronic diseases. I’m planning to have this as an annual event. It will also be the inaugural, yearly meeting of the International Society to Reserve Chronic Disease.”

The symposium will include faculty members from Harvard, Yale, Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, the National Institute of Health and other prominent institutions. The public is invited.

“I believe the caliber of these world-class speakers and the combination of basic and clinical scientists will make this a fun and unique event,” Kaushal says. “This symposium draws a cross-section of the best and brightest minds, who work tirelessly in their respective fields and believe reversing disease is possible. It is an honor to host this esteemed group as we come together to share knowledge and collectively work to continuously improve the quality of care we deliver to our valued patients.”

A symposium of this caliber is a point of pride for Kaushal, who served as an assistant professor, head of the retina division and the Richardson II chair in the ophthalmology department at the University of Florida. He joined Retina Specialty Institute in 2012. Being in both academia and private practice has allowed him to be intimately involved in many cutting-edge clinical trials to treat retinal diseases. He is also an active participant in advancing new drug treatments for patients with vision-threatening diseases.

Being a visionary, a dynamic leader and thinking outside the box has earned Kaushal much respect among colleagues. Because of his reputation, doctors throughout the country continually refer patients to him.

Thanks to clinicians and scientists such as Kaushal, the possibility of reversing diseases without reliance on drugs and medication is being pursued.

“I think the public will be impressed by the breadth and depth of scholars here who share my vision of reversing disease,” he says. “I think this is where medicine has to go over the next 20 to 25 years.”

THE SYMPOSIUM WILL FEATURE RESPECTED CLINICIANS AND SCIENTISTS SUCH AS:

DR. CALDWELL ESSELSTYN

of Cleveland Clinic, a leading proponent in the field of plant-based diets.

DR. COLIN CAMPBELL

of Cornell University, an American biochemist who specializes in the effect of nutrition on long-term health.

DR. ARTHUR HORWICH

of Yale University, a medical geneticist and recipient of the prestigious Lasker Basic Medical Research Award.

DR. RANDY JIRTLE

of Duke University, a biologist renowned for his pioneering work in epigenetics and genomic imprinting.

DR. AMIR LERMAN

of Mayo Clinic, who has authored numerous publications focusing on coronary artery disease.

DR. NEIL RIORDAN

of the Stem Cell Institute, one of the nation’s top applied stem cell research scientists.

DR. ALESSIO FASANO

of Harvard University, a pioneering researcher in the fields of celiac disease and gluten intolerance.

DR. TOM CAMPBELL

of Rochester University, co-author of the bestselling book, “The China Study: The Most Comprehensive Study of Nutrition Ever Conducted and the Startling Implications for Diet, Weight-Loss, and Long-Term Health.”

DR. TOREN FINKEL

of the National Institute for Health, an avid researcher on the role of cellular metabolism and oxidative stress in age-related diseases.

health pros health pros health pros

None of us necessarily enjoy having to visit a doctor. After all, that means something is wrong. However, when a trip to the doctor’s office is inevitable, we want a doctor on top of his or her game.

Not only does that mean a doctor who is meticulous in diagnosing a problem and successfully treating it, but also someone who delivers compassionate care and takes time to carefully answer our questions.

Fortunately, you’ll have an opportunity to learn about these types of doctors in our special Health Pros section. As you will see, these doctors offer the best of both worlds: they help transform medicine by staying abreast of the industry’s cuttingedge treatments while creating trusting relationships with patients and their families.

These docs are definitely in … the top of their class.

Easily navigate our Health Pros healthcare directory by choosing the section that best fits your individual needs. Looking for a physician? Our Profiles section allows you to get to know each doctor individually on a one-on-one basis. Maybe you are looking for a special practice. Just thumb through the Practice section until your needs are met. And lastly, if you are considering a specific medical procedure, just search through our Procedures section and you will be sure to find exactly what you need.

“I leave my house every day with the same excitement as I did on day one.”

AsadQamar

MD, FCCP, FACC, FSGC, FSCI, FAAC

For Dr. Asad Qamar — and his very supportive wife, Humeraa, would agree — there never seems to be enough hours in the day.

In fact, “regular office hours” have been anything but regular with Dr. Qamar since he and a small group of health care professionals opened the Institute of Cardiovascular Excellence in 2009. He couldn’t have known then whether his ideas for a new kind of comprehensive cardiovascular care facility, based on a patient-centered philosophy of compassionate care, would find a foothold.

He didn’t have to wait long for an answer. Appointments came steadily and regularly at “ICE.” Often, for particularly needy patients, hours would extend well past the dinner hour. They still do and Dr. Qamar keeps them all.

His answer for what keeps him going through the succession of difficult cases and the brutally long days is deceptively simple: “I still love what I do. I leave my house every day with the same excitement as I did on day one.”

Dr. Qamar’s passion has been infectious. Today, ICE has grown from a single entity — the Institute of Cardiovascular Excellence — to a much larger family. Now, the Institute of Medical Excellence has several locations and is a first line of defense for patients in need of regular checkups and medical services. The newest addition — The Limbstitute

— is a revolutionary resource for limb care that combines all the specialized needs for patients at risk under one roof.

Dr. Qamar is not about to stop there. His vision sees far beyond the extraordinary accomplishments of today to the addition of more specialties and the opening of more facilities. Each will be founded on the original philosophy of patient-focused compassionate care.

Today, Dr. Qamar refers to his philosophy with an acronym — ICE. Innovation. Compassion. Excellence. The device says quite a lot in only three words. But the rapid, continued growth of ICE and the enthusiastic support it receives from virtually every one of its patients says so much more.

Locations: Ocala, Tavares, Summerfield, Williston and The Villages

352.854.0681 // puticeonit.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

JulioUgarte MD

“It is such a privilege to partner with a patient and help guide them toward better health and work with them to ease their disease.” That unique humility and marked respect for his patients is what makes Dr. Ugarte a very special primary care physician. It all started at the College of Medicine at the University of South Florida in Tampa, where he earned his medical degree in 1981. Next came residency,

which he served at Florida Hospital Orlando. He is a diplomat of the American Board of Family Practice and a fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians.

Dr. Ugarte’s career truly began at the Park Care Health Center in Orlando, where he practiced until 1993. His own, private practice came next and Dr. Ugarte was well established in Summerfield when he opted to join the Institute of Cardiovascular Excellence family in 2009. Today, his patients number upwards of 3,000 and the key to his success most certainly lies in the way he approaches treatment.

“The constant increases in healthcare costs and chronic illness have shown me we need to incorporate a more functional approach to patient care. I try to better address the root care of illness and allow the body to heal itself. We employ a flexible approach that incorporates traditional western as well as functioning alternatives in care.” It’s an approach his patients certainly seem to appreciate. “I listen to my patients, try to fi nd the underlying cause of their symptoms and use whatever course of treatment is necessary to help them. We offer various treatments—nutritional analysis, food intolerance, advanced lipid testing, even genetic testing to optimize patient care and ultimately get a therapeutic response.”

“We employ a flexible approach that incorporates traditional western as well as functioning alternatives in care.”

the disease;

Clarissa Abrantes MD

Dr. Clarissa Abrantes went to medical school at the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, the oldest Catholic university in the Philippines. After graduation, she completed her residency in internal medicine at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. After that, she moved to Florida and spent three years in a local practice before joining the Institute of Cardiovascular Excellence family.

It was December 2010 when she was tapped to take over the helm of the Institute of Medical Excellence office in Mulberry for the late Dr. Guillermo Avecilla.

“I have a wonderful team,” she says. “They go above and beyond expectations to ensure the quality of care patients receive is top-notch. It’s important for us doctors to be good communicators. I am very conscious of explaining things in a clear, concise way so my patients understand what I am saying. I do my best to be attentive, taking the time to listen to their concerns and answer their questions. I want patients to feel comfortable and open up. I don’t just treat the disease; I treat the patient as a whole.”

“I don’t just treat

I treat the patient as a whole.”

AbbasAli

MD, FACC

The newest addition to The Institute of Cardiovascular Excellence family brings an impressive history of accomplishment and career highlights with him. Dr. Abbas Ali’s interest in medicine got its start when his grandfather had a heart attack when Ali was a very impressionable 12-year-old.

Fast-forward to medical school at the prestigious Ghandi Medical School in India,

where he consi s every one of h is

where he consistently earned top honors in every one of his classes. Post-graduate training at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit (internship, residency and fellowship) prepared him for extensive practice experience both in Michigan and Florida.

Dr. Ali’s contributions to the Florida medical community began in 2002, when he took a cardiologist post at Florida Cardiology in Winter Park. His accomplishments extend well beyond the practice realm into the highly competitive publishing world as well, with numerous peer-reviewed publications and upwards of 30 abstracts presented. Dr. Ali has even branched out beyond medicine.

“I always wanted to be an engineer and so I have a M.S. in clinical research design and statistics from the University of Michigan,” he says.

“If you don’t take time to listen, you’re going to miss things.”

call me the Dancing Doctor.”

JustinFerns

MD, F.A.C.C.

Dr. Justin Ferns graduated from Trivandrum Medical College in Kerala, India, in 1992. He served his residency in Internal Medicine at Wayne State University in Detroit. That was followed by a cardiology fellowship at the University of Louisville.

Dr. Ferns has been practicing cardiology for 12 years in Ocala with offices in Summerfield and Ocala, with a primary focus on preventive cardiology, risk-factor modification and early

detection of heart disease.

Dr. Ferns has been instrumental in championing risk-factor modification through promoting dance as a principle form of exercise. He founded Dancing With the Doctors seven years ago as a way of giving back to his community and introduced Cardio-Waltz to the general public as a way to stay fit and have fun at the same time. And Dr. Ferns practices what he preaches. He competes on the swing and country circuits and holds seven world championships.

“Nothing would brighten up my day more than for one of my patients to ask me to dance with them in the office,” Dr. Ferns says.

“They

George Gilbert MD

George W. Gilbert, M.D. put off his pursuit of an M.D. degree for ten years while he worked construction in Florida. “I was a roofer in the Florida heat, but I’d always been interested in medicine as a career. The company I worked for knew that and was behind me 100%. I wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for their support.”

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Dr. Gilbert began realizing his dream in medical school at the American University of the Caribbean. Except his dream got interrupted by an active volcano on the island of Montserrat. “Half an inch of ash covered the campus.” He relocated to St. Martin where Hurricane Luis, a Category 4 hurricane, devastated the island with sustained winds of 140 m.p.h. “I took my daily shower from a hose.” He finally finished up his studies in Belize. “I wouldn’t trade my experiences for anything.” Dr. Gilbert topped off his world experience with seventeen months’ clinical training in Ireland, before coming back to the United States and the Aultman Family Practice in Canton, Ohio for his residency.

Today, after several stints at practices in Florida— from Venice to Gainesville to Belleview—Dr. Gilbert brings his unique down-to-earth perspective to the Institute of Cardiovascular Excellence. “I relate to my patients. They can talk to me like I’m the guy who paints your house. A lot of them tell me You’re just not my doctor you’re somebody I can talk to. I’m proud of that.”

Dr. Gilbert sees his patients as family. “I imagine they’re a family member. They’ve come to me for help and I treat them exactly the way I’d want my mother or my wife to be treated.”

“I’m a pretty low key guy. At the end of the day, I like sitting with my wife on our lanai and watching the sunset.”

Donald Liebelt

MD

Dr. Don Liebelt has been on both sides of the hospital bed. Much of his youth was spent in doctors’ offices dealing with a congenital foot problem.

“I had to visit a doctor every two months from age 12 to age 20, and most of those visits involved two hours in the waiting room prior to being seen,” he says. “Obviously, we can’t guarantee timeliness. You never know how sick a patient is or how much time an individual is going to need. But I am very sensitive to patient wait time.”

Dr. Liebelt practiced in clinics and hospitals in Georgia and Florida, before finally finding an ideal fit with the team at The Institute of Cardiovascular Excellence.

“Being associated with a top-notch cardiovascular group was a key factor when I was first considering coming on board with ICE,” he says. “They clearly have a philosophy where the patient comes first.”

Here at ICE as well as at Dr. Liebelt’s previous practices, Dr. Don employs a highly personalized approach to patient care.

“One of the things that I think I do well is listen carefully to my patients,” he says. “Hidden in their description of symptoms are clues that can often be the only thing that gives you a sense of what the real problem is. I try to take the Sherlock Holmes approach … combining facts, test results, symptom clues and logic to get to the diagnosis.”

Dr. Don Liebelt is a perfect addition to the family at ICE. Not only is the way he practices modeled deliberately on the Golden Rule —“My philosophy is based upon how I would like my own family to be treated” — it also fits beautifully with the vision behind The Institute of Cardiovascular Excellence. As it turns out, “it’s one of many reasons I joined ICE,” he says.

“I don’t just treat the disease; I treat the patient as a whole.”

Anis Shahmiri MD

Anis Shahmiri took up the pursuit of medicine at the urging of his father who thought a medical career would be noble.

A strong scholastic record secured him one of the highly sought-after slots in the Government Medical College in Kashmir, India, and Anis was on his way. After post-graduate work in internal medicine at

the Institute of Medical Sciences in Kashmir and several years in general practice in Dubai, Anis served several years in residency at the Nassau County Medical Center, SUNY at Stony Brook, East Meadow, New York.

He finally arrived in Florida as an internist with the Central Florida Heart Center in August 1998. Stints at the Institute of Cardiovascular Medicine and the Heart Doctors of Ocala followed. In July 2013 Dr. Shahmiri joined the family of the Institute of Cardiovascular Excellence as an internist.

“I’ve known Dr. Qamar for many years,” he says. “Knew of his commitment and his work ethic. When the opportunity came for me to join his Institute, I did not hesitate. I believe I bring a strong clinical knowledge base to the practice and many years’ experience. I spend a lot of time talking with my patients, their families, their extended families. I know them better than they know themselves sometimes. You have to, to analyze their problems, look outside the box. Getting to know your people and getting them to trust that you have their best interests at heart, that is what I strive for. That is the Holy Grail.”

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“Coming up with a clinical diagnosis is like doing detective work.”

Kalpesh Solanski

D.O., F.A.C.C.

Dr. Kalpesh Solanki is a fellow of the American College of Cardiology and while he practices cardiology and vascular medicine, his specialty is in device therapy: pacemakers, defibrillators and cardiac resynchronization.

That all makes perfect sense when you realize he received a bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Florida and

worked as an engineer for three years. Dr. Solanki then turned his attention to medical school, which he attended at Nova Southeastern University, followed by a one-year internship at Palmetto General Hospital in Miami. He trained in internal and cardiovascular medicine for six years at the University of South Florida Health in Tampa.

“My expertise in device therapy complements the ICE team in that we are able to provide more services in one state-of-the-art building where communication between doctors is seamless,” he says.

Dr. Solanski is a Florida native with over six years spent in Ocala. On those rare days he gets free time, he enjoys spending it with his family.

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“My expertise in device therapy complements the ICE team.”

RamonTorres

MD, FACC

As of Jan. 1, Dr. Ramon Torres will add his talents to the Institute of Cardiovascular Excellence as the cardiologist/hospitalist on call at Munroe Regional, Ocala Regional and West Marion hospitals.

He will be joined there by his wife, who is an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years experience in the cardiac arena.

“This means that prompt, compassionate cardiology care from ICE will be immediately available,” he says. “This is revolutionary for Ocala

to have a cardiologist full time at the hospital to allow for rapid evaluations and appropriate treatment that can be started as soon as possible. Time is muscle in the cardiac world. Even a short delay can mean a big difference in outcomes.”

Dr. Torres grew up in San Juan, Puerto Rico, dreaming of becoming a doctor. His first stop on the journey to a career in medicine was Newark, New Jersey, where he received his education. First, medical school at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Then internship, residency and fellowships in cardiology and vascular medicine — all at the UMDNJ University Hospital.

He has been board certified in cardiology and internal medicine since 2000. In 2010 he helped found Florida Cardiology Associates of Ocala where he worked hard to “continue to improve and provide the most current and up to date medical technology and skills possible.” In the intervening years, Dr. Torres had the opportunity to work alongside some of the cardiologists currently on staff with ICE.

“I know their skills and extreme dedication to provide first-rate care,” he says.

His own philosophy of patient treatment closely mirrors that of the ICE cardiologists he observed.

“I think my compassion and need to be there for my patients may be my biggest strength,” he says. “My patients mean so much to me. I have always tried to treat them like family. The best interests of my patients is my No. 1 goal.”

“Time is muscle in the cardiac world. Even a short delay can mean a big difference in outcomes.”

Coping with post-operative pain

Surgery can be a traumatic experience. For patients undergoing knee, hip and shoulder replacement surgery, enduring post-operative pain is one of the biggest battles they face. A person’s body is already trying to cope with healing and repair after surgery, and severe pain adds even more stress on the body. It is perfectly natural to have concerns—or fears—about pain following a procedure.

Fortunately, Dr. Donald Perry of RadnothyPerry Orthopaedic Center in Tavares is extremely sympathetic to these concerns and fears. He understands that appropriate pain control goes a long way in helping patients achieve full recovery and return to a full and active lifestyle much faster. Five years ago, he developed a pain control protocol using a special regimen of medications that has continued to evolve throughout the years.

His method has proven extremely effective. Dr. Perry has achieved the lowest pain scores at Florida Hospital Waterman based on surveys fi lled out by the hospital’s post-surgical patients.

“Ninety percent of my patients do not ask for additional prescriptions to treat their pain,” he says. “By effectively controlling pain, patients don’t have to go through any unnecessary

Surgery can an patients und nderg replacemeent su onne of th person’s s i healing g rep adds evven more natural to have a pro D Or th thopae to understands s th hel el and return to a faster. Five yea a t hat has continu His met hod h has ac F lorida Hospita out by t he hosp perc add itional pres says. “By effect don’t have to go d ist ress.”

One reason for Dr. Perry’s phenomenal success rate is that he begins treating post-operative pain before the surgery actually begins.

“I realize how important it is to achieve optimal pain control after surgery,” he says. “It helps them be more comfortable, move around easier and recover faster. It can also prevent complications from occurring.”

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RADNOTHY-PERRY ORTHOPAEDIC CENTER 2051 Mayo Drive | Tavares, FL 32778 | 352.343.2171

Dr. Dino Madonna

Passion for his practice, patients and the artistry of facial plastic surgery has defi ned Dr. Dino Madonna since he began his career.

A long time Lake County practitioner at Lake Ear, Nose, Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery as well as the Medical Director of affi liate med spa, Face 2 Face Aesthetics & Wellness, Dr. Madonna is a Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon who received his Fellowship training from the Academy of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery.

Whether his patient is female or male, young, middle-aged or a thriving senior, Madonna’s inspiration comes from “…a fascination with the three-dimensional artistry involved in bringing an enhanced and youthful appearance to the face.”

“For example, whether I am rebuilding a defect from a MOHs surgery (a surgery which removes cancerous lesions from the surface of the skin, often leaving behind large defects) or whether I am enhancing someone’s look through an elective procedure such as a facelift, the idea of form, function and the artistry involved is inspirational and rewarding to me.”

Heidi Ressler, a working mother of three and also a patient of Dr. Madonna’s, affi rms both his commitment to artistry and how past patient results have become his greatest body of work. “I decided to use Dr. Madonna for my procedure for two reasons. One, because of the recommendations that came from women that I trusted and I thought looked great. The second reason followed my initial consultation and how he and his team made me feel — as if I was the most important patient he had that day.”

Melinda Barker, also of The Villages, is a fan; “You know, when I fi rst decided to have the face-

lift, my family and friends were very skeptical and worried. And after they saw me, they thought I looked very natural. In fact, one of my girlfriends noticed how refreshed I looked. So I’m very pleased and will likely do some other little things just to keep my face a little younger looking.”

Each consultation with Dr. Madonna begins with a “face to face” conversation in order to determine each patient’s circumstances, needs, wants and expectations. This philosophy is what drove Dr. Madonna to open Face 2 Face Aesthetics & Wellness in The Villages and Leesburg.

Dr. Madonna specializes in face and neck lifts in addition to procedures of the nose, eyelids, chin, ears, brow and forehead, as well as skin resurfacing. Dr. Madonna and his team also have extensive experience in facial injectables and fi llers, laser skin procedures and a plethora of other services designed to enhance one’s cosmetic look and overall wellness.

Lake Ear, Nose, Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery has offices in The Villages, Leesburg and Tavares while Face 2 Face offers its services in The Villages and Leesburg offices.

Every breath tells a story

Pulmonary Group of Central Florida

Living with a lung disease can negatively impact a person’s quality of life.

Fortunately, Dr. Jose Diaz and his talented team at Pulmonary Group of Central Florida have provided a breath of fresh air for countless Lake County patients.

That team includes Dr. Marjery Lopez, who is board certified in internal and pulmonary medicine, as well as advanced registered nurse practitioners Maria Byrd and Pilar Smith, who are both certified in adult health and specialize in pulmonary medicine. They specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of lung-related disorders such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, lung cancer, asthma and sleep apnea.

In addition to being highly trained and experienced, the team prides itself in offering compassionate care. The team members spend quality time with each patient, taking the time to answer any questions and address any concerns.

Pulmonary Group of Central Florida is unique in several ways. First, the practice offers onsite pulmonary rehabilitation where patients undergo monitored exercise and education sessions aimed at helping them increase their endurance and overall quality of life. The rehab is tailored to an individual patient’s needs so he or she can

continue exercising at home.

“Studies show pulmonary patients who undergo rehabilitation have a lesser chance of being hospitalized,” Dr. Diaz says.

In addition, Pulmonary Group of Central Florida serves as a medical research site. This means patients who meet certain criteria may be chosen to receive the latest medication aimed at treating various lung diseases.

“It’s a win-win situation for us and the patient,” Dr. Diaz says. “Patients are reimbursed and may receive medication that is vastly superior to the medication being used now. And for the practice, we get to be a driving engine for innovative research that may drastically improve the lives of pulmonary patients.”

Thanks to his skilled surgical hands, meticulous attention to detail, and warm, caring demeanor, Dr. MaoHao “Charlie” Han has helped countless suffering patients achieve full recoveries and regain their quality of life.

Dr. Han is a board-certified general and thoracic surgeon with Advanced Gastroenterology and Surgery Associates, which has locations in Leesburg and Lady Lake. After attending medical school at the University of Mississippi, he completed general surgery training at the University of South Alabama and thoracic surgery training at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis.

“For me, it is very important that all my patients achieve excellent outcomes,” says Dr. Han, who has privileges at Leesburg Regional Medical Center and The Villages Regional Hospital. “They are putting their trust in me, and that is something I take very seriously.”

Dr. Han performs general surgeries such as hernia repair, gallbladder removal, colon resection, skin grafts and breast surgery (mastectomy and

lumpectomy). The thoracic procedures he performs include minimally invasive biopsies, lung and esophagus cancer, gastroesophageal reflux disease and swallowing disorders.

He is also trained in minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, which involves making a small incision in the patient and inserting a tiny video camera and very thin surgical instruments. The video gives Dr. Han an excellent view of the operating area. Laparoscopic surgery is used to treat gallstones, hernias, lung cancer, colon cancer and gastroesophageal reflux disease.

“The advantages of laparoscopic surgery is less pain, less scar tissue, faster recovery and a faster return to your favorite activities,” Dr. Han says.

Dr. Anureet Garg

As a girl growing up in Michigan, Anureet Garg saw fi rsthand how debilitating physical conditions can affect a person’s quality of life. Her grandmother was a paraplegic, while one of her closest friends battled spina bifida. That sparked a passion inside her to become a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician and treat people with physical impairment and disability.

Today, she is living her dream.

Dr. Garg completed her residency in physical medicine and rehabilitation in June 2013 at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. In May, she joined the team at Central Florida Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. The practice has offices in Leesburg and The Villages and is owned by Dr. Robert Maiello.

“Being here is wonderful because we offer a true physical medicine and rehabilitation practice,” says Dr. Garg, who graduated from Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2009. “Dr. Maiello offers comprehensive rehabilitation services, and his emphasis on high-quality patient care is precisely how I practice medicine.”

Dr. Garg loves the field of physical medicine and rehabilitation because she helps impaired patients lead healthier and more independent lives. Her rehabilitation and treatment programs are specifically designed for individual patients

depending on the injury, disorder or illness. She enjoys treating various conditions, ranging from arthritis, spinal cord injuries and stroke to brain injuries, neuropathy, sports injuries and almost any physical problem.

“The most gratifying aspect of this job is improving a patient’s quality of life,” she says. “Rehabilitation adds life to years; not just years to life. For instance, a patient can survive a stroke but becomes very dependent on others to help him or her perform simple functions of everyday life. That is not the life people want to live. We help patients become independent and also treat subsequent side effects such as pain and spasticity.”

She offers a wide array of treatment options, including muscle injections, joint injections, spasticity injections and osteopathic manipulations. Dr. Garg can also refer patients to physical therapy and diagnose conditions by ordering medical imaging or performing electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction tests.

“Our field overlaps with other specialties, mainly orthopedics, rheumatology and neurology. As a result, we are a one-stop place for physical problems. That is very beneficial and convenient for patients. For example, if a patient suffers from neuropathy and arthritis, they can come here and receive treatment for both conditions rather than visiting separate doctors.”

Mid-Florida Surgical Associates

Drs. Christopher J. Johnson and Jorge L. Florin established Mid-Florida Surgical Associates in 2004 and began providing surgical care to Lake, Sumter and West Orange counties. Each of the five surgeons on staff brings experience and expertise in many facets of general surgery.

Our focus is to provide the very best surgical care available to patients. We are committed to achieving this goal through continuing education and training in most minimally invasive and current robotic techniques. We treat our patients, nurses and staff like family. We believe that all patients deserve the best medical care available and we provide the most advanced, compassionate surgical care that has helped thousands live longer, healthier, happier lives.

Our surgeons serve their communities not just in patient care but also in philanthropic and volunteer endeavors. They serve as board members and officers to numerous hospital committees. They serve as members and officers to the medical societies and community foundations. They are active in their churches and participate in their children’s school activities. All of our surgeons are on staff at Health Central Hospital, South Lake Hospital and Orlando Health.

Jorge L. Florin, M.D., FACS

Dr. Florin is board-certified by The American Board of Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He has served as Chief of Surgery and Chief of Staff at Health Central, as well as being appointed to The Board of Trustees of Health Central from 2005 to 2009 by former Governor Jeb

Bush and reappointed by former Governor Charlie Crist. He is a member of The Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons, the Lake Sumter Medical Society and the American Society of Breast Surgeons. Dr. Florin has been recognized by his peers as one of “Orlando’s Premier Doctors” in 2011 and 2012.

Dr. Florin’s primary interests include laparoscopic surgery, hernia repairs, bowel resections, appendectomies, and breast cancer care. Other interests include both thyroid and parathyroid surgery.

Dr. Florin is married to Tami Florin and together they have six children. He enjoys playing tennis, travel and spending time with his family.

Christopher J. Johnson, D.O., FACOS

Dr. Johnson specializes in general surgery with an interest in minimally-invasive robotic procedures and robotic single-site surgery. He is the first surgeon to perform a robotic procedure in Lake County. He remains a strong supporter of minimallyinvasive procedures and stays abreast of the latest techniques. Robotic procedures are the most current technology available in general surgery today.

Dr. Johnson’s interests are in colorectal, bowel, biliary and hernia surgeries. He also provides care for patients with breast cancer, endocrine disease and reflux/heartburn disease.

Dr. Johnson is board-certified by The American Osteopathic Board of Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons. He has served as Chief of Staff and Chief of Surgery at South Lake Hospital in Clermont. He is

Dr. Jorge L. Florin Dr. Christopher J. Johnson Dr. Jason A. Boardman Dr. Joseph M. Armotrading II Dr. David J. Wright III

a member of The Lake Sumter Medical Society, a member of the Florida Medical Association, The American Osteopathic Association, The American Society of Breast Surgeons and a Professor at Michagan State University.

He is married to Ann Johnson and they have 3 children, Clayton, Cara and Connor. He enjoys attending sporting events and outdoor activities, such as soccer and snowboarding. He enjoys the time spent with his family.

Jason A. Boardman, M.D., FACS

Dr. Boardman specializes in general surgery with interest in breast disease, vein treatments, and minimally-invasive surgery with an emphasis on oncological procedures for breast and colon. Along with Dr. Johnson, Dr. Boardman offers patients the latest in minimally-invasive surgeries utilizing both the daVinci robot, as well as the TIF procedure (trans-oral incisionless fundoplication), a treatment for reflux/ heartburn disease. Dr. Boardman and Dr. Johnson also proctor in the use of the daVinci robot.

Dr. Boardman is highly respected in the community. He is The Chair of the Credentials Committee and the former Chief of Surgery at South Lake Hospital. He is a member of Foundation Board for the hospital and participates on several other hospital committees. He is a strong supporter of American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life.

Dr. Boardman served as a Major in the United States Army. His experience included Chief of Surgery and Chief of Trauma, and he received several medals and honors during his service with the military.

Dr. Boardman is board-certified by The American Board of Surgery and is a Fellow of The American College of Surgeons. He is a member of The Florida Medical Association, Lake Sumter Medical Society, serving as current past president, The American Society of Breast Surgeons and a Professor at UCF. He has been recognized by The Florida Medical Association for his leadership and by the Consumer Research Council of America as “One of America’s Top Surgeons.”

Dr. Boardman is married to Dr. Mary Beth Lewis-

Boardman and they have 2 children, Annabella and Sam. He enjoys traveling and playing golf.

Joseph M. Armotrading II, M.D. FACS

Dr. Armotrading specializes in general surgery. He has special interest in breast diseases including minimally invasive breast procedures and treatment. He has a passion for surgical oncology and new emerging techniques. Dr. Armotrading also has an interest in hernia repair, gallbladder disease, appendectomies and endoscopy.

Dr. Armotrading is board-certified by The American Board of Surgery and is a Fellow in The American College of Surgeons. He is a member of The Florida Medical Association, Lake Sumter Medical Society and The American Society of Breast Surgeons. He also received Fellowship from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland.

He proudly served as a Major in the United States Armed Forces and received many military honors.

Dr. Armotrading enjoys exercising, listening to music and spending time with his family and friends.

David J. Wright III, D.O. FACOS

Dr. Wright specializes in general surgery with interest in breast malignancies, colon diseases, endoscopy, hernias, and minimally invasive robotic surgeries.

Dr. Wright is board-certified by The American Osteopathic Board of Surgery. He also serves on the Government Affairs committee for The American College of Osteopathic Surgeons. He is a member of The Florida Medical Association, The American Osteopathic Association, Lake Sumter Medical Society and The American Society of Breast Surgeons.

Dr. Wright serves on The South Lake Hospital Quality Review Committee. He assists pre-medical students in surgical training at South Lake Hospital. He also serves as a Surgical Board Examiner for The American Osteopathic Board of Surgery.

Dr. Wright is married to Stephanie Wright and they have 2 children David and Kate. He enjoys the outdoors, fishing, hunting and practicing martial arts. He also enjoys cooking for his family and friends.

Florida Musculoskeletal Institute: Comprehensive Care to Relieve Pain and Restore Function

For more than 30 years, FMI has delivered comprehensive orthopedic care to Leesburg and The Villages by providing an incomparable range of both time-tested and technologically advanced interdisciplinary services. FMI was the first practice in the area to offer both traditional and the revolutionary anterior (front) approach total hip replacement, and has been a pioneering provider of

tissue injury and malfunction, damaged cartilage, inflamed tissue, even certain cancers, with less pain and risk and faster recovery than standard open surgery.

FMI’s four orthopaedic surgeons do far more than perform state-of-the-art surgeries; they also provide effective non-surgical services, including sports medicine, treatment for trauma and fracture,

full and partial partial knee replacement, shoulder repair and replacement, platelet rich plasma (PRP) for holistic tendon and ligament repair, and complete podiatry services covering everything from diabetic foot care to bunion and hammertoe surgery.

But that’s just the beginning. FMI also specializes in arthroscopic surgery to diagnose and treat joint diseases like arthritis as well as soft

acute back evaluations, osteoporosis evaluation and occupational medicine.

So, until some tech genius invents a real time machine, FMI remains the real-world option for fast, effective, lasting relief from injury and disease and the related pain, inflammation and immobility. You’ll find everything you need, all in one place, from experienced professionals who measure their success by your wholehearted satisfaction.

Mario John, MD Andrew Huntt, MD John Cowin, MD Carl Ollivierre, MD, FACS Chad Watkins, DPM, FACFAS

World Class Cancer Care in Our Corner of the World

RBOI practicing the most advanced radiation oncology, right here in Central Florida.

When Norman Anderson lost a close friend to cancer at 21, he vowed to make oncology his life’s work. In 1990, Dr. Anderson opened the Robert Boissoneault Oncology Institute, named in honor of that friend lost too soon. He was joined by fellow UF physicians Tim Brant, Steve Bucy, and Joseph Bennett. Years later, Dr. Luis Carrascosa became a member of the team in Marion County.

In 1998, RBOI was awarded accreditation from the American College of Radiology, the highest honor given to radiation oncology practices in the U.S. Recognizing that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to cancer care, RBOI utilizes a wide array of treatment modalities including Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT), Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT RapidArc), Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT), and Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS), combined with advanced targeting technologies like Onboard Imaging (OBI), ExacTrac, and Calypso.

But even with all these advanced technologies at RBOI’s disposal, Dr. Anderson is the first to warn against an overemphasis on the machines themselves. “The medical professionals responsible for the design and delivery of the treatment,” he says “are at least if not more important than the technology.” And it is here that RBOI has no equal in the surrounding areas. RBOI employs a team of medical physicists and dosimetrists at each site that are always available, ensuring peer review and the highest possible quality of care.

Patients like Bud Conklin say RBOI deserves equal recognition for its warm, family-like atmosphere. Following his prostate cancer diagnoses in 2011, Bud chose Calypso 4D Localization, which uses GPS-like technology to optimize radiation targeting. Now cancer free, the air force veteran says he was as wowed by the personal attention at RBOI as he was by the advanced therapies. “My 88 year-old mom was worried about her ‘little boy,’” Bud says. “The staff took the time to show her how everything worked, put her mind at ease––I think that says so much.”

The warmth and expertise at RBOI extend beyond medical care. Physician-led support groups offer emotional support and cancer navigators are always available to patients and their families for one-on-one counseling. For patients like Bud Conklin, there’s no reason to travel when they can get cutting edge treatment with the comforts of home. “I didn’t feel like I was sick,” Bud says. “I was just visiting my friends at RBOI every morning.”

Dr. Hugo Hart

Dr. Samuel Martin

Dr. Daniel Arnold

Vascular Vein Centers

When it comes to vein care, it’s important to go to someone you trust and who has the proper credentials and experience to diagnose and treat leg problems accurately and effectively.

“Varicose veins are a medical disease; therefore, it’s vital to fi nd someone who has suitable training and knowledge to provide proper care,” explains Dr. Samuel Martin, founder and medical director at Vascular Vein Centers. “Before the new millennia, only general surgeons, cardiothoracic surgeons, and vascular surgeons were authorized to treat veins. However, new technology moved vein care into the office setting and the hospital credentialing process was lost. Now, there are professionals in unrelated medical fields treating vein problems with no residency or fellowship training. As a result, some people are receiving inadequate treatment for their leg issues.”

At Vascular Vein Centers in The Villages, patients are assured every specialist is highly trained and aptly skilled in vein therapy. They have also devoted more than 30 years diagnosing and treating the most difficult vein and arterial problems.

“Dr. Hugo Hart, Dr. Daniel Arnold and I are trained to handle the complications veins can cause. For example, most ulcers in the legs are venous in origin, and we are capable of treating not only the ulcer or wound but also the underly-

ing vein problem which caused the problem,” says Dr. Martin.

In addition, Vascular Vein Centers’ staff members who perform the diagnostic studies have board certification and its clinics have been certified by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission to carry out venous and arterial ultrasound. This means the practice has shown continued excellence in performing vein and arterial studies that meet the highest standards.

There is no replacement for experience. There is also no replacement for dedication. Dr. Martin and his colleagues consistently receive praise from patients for their level of care and commitment to helping people become more proactive about their leg health.

“Part of my job is being a health advocate and telling people the things they can do to avoid, or at least lessen the impact, of vein problems,” says. Dr. Martin. “For example, I’m a huge proponent of compression socks and I recommend them for people who have occupations that require a lot of standing or women who are pregnant. It’s something I’m passionate about and I think people appreciate our practice more when they see the way we do things. After all, our patients deserve the best and they can rely on us to offer the care they need.”

A reason to smile

When it comes to providing outstanding dentistry, Dr. John T. Murrell upholds a longstanding reputation for excellence. Practicing general dentistry in Mount Dora since 1982, he produces exceptional results in cosmetic, restorative and implant dentistry, using advanced technology to help patients achieve optimal dental health.

Dr. Murrell is a pioneer in relaxation dentistry, which allows patients who may otherwise avoid the dentist receive comprehensive dental care while relaxed, comfortable and safe. In many cases, patients who have postponed dental care for years because of anxiety, previous bad experiences or inability to take time for multiple appointments can undergo several procedures in a single, relaxing visit. Through the use of treatment phasing and creative fi nancing he and his staff are able to make ideal care available to most who make dental health a priority.

Explaining his philosophy, he says, “I understand that the health of your mouth can directly affect the health of your entire system. By taking a healthy mouth and body approach, we can be proactive in treating problems such as gum disease and tooth decay.” In partnership with the medical community, Dr. Murrell offers a dental approach to Obstructive Sleep Apnea, in many cases providing a more comfortable alternative to CPAP machines.

Dr. Murrell and his wife, Sue, are active in missions both abroad and in his community. “Our goal is to provide exceptional care with a personal touch. Taking care of this community both in my practice and in my volunteer work gives me a great deal of joy.”

Legacy Clinic of

Many physicians advertise having the latest, state-of-the-art equipment, but many times those fancy gadgets just mask a person’s symptoms. Dr. John Theeck believes in discovering the root cause and eliminating it. At his practice, Legacy Clinic of Chiropractic, he uses complex

examinations to determine his patients’ underlying problems.

“We try to become the hero in a different way,” he says. “A laser, pill or patch doesn’t correct the problem. We do what is necessary to determine the cause of your pain and discomfort, and then we fi x it.”

Dr. Theeck treats everything from aching backs and feet to sinus infections and high blood pressure. And with his practice being located in The Villages, he realizes how important it is for his local clients to have a second lease on life.

“They play tennis, golf and pickleball, so I look at them like athletes,” Dr. Theeck says. “They want their body to operate to its full potential and I help them achieve that.”

He is also a staunch proponent of educating people on how to prevent diseases.

“I am a board member of ChiroMission, which is a humanitarian mission group that provides holistic care to Third World countries. “If I can educate patients now to prevent diseases in the future, then I feel like I have succeeded. There are things a person can do to prevent certain illnesses such as cancer, stroke, diabetes and heart disease and my mission is to educate people.”

Much of Dr. Theeck’s drive to help people undergo complete lifestyle changes comes from his personal experiences with medical error.

“I had two loved ones pass away from medical error. They were taking medications they didn’t need, so that drives me to create a better community,” he says.

With such a stellar reputation, Legacy Clinic attracts patients from all over the country who are seeking relief because they’ve grown tired of taking medicine and not knowing what it’s for.

“Today’s medical system is set up to manage your symptoms or disease and I want to find the source and correct the underlying cause,” Dr. Theeck says. “I find it rewarding to help patients overcome debilitating pain and get their lives back.”

Dr. Norman S. Novis

When Dr. Norman Novis first opened his practice in December 2012, he had a vision to develop strong relationships with patients and use the latest medical technology to give them the same level of care he would give to his own family.

And while he, his wife Alona, and the rest of his staff prepares to move into a bigger, better office just a block away from his current location on County Road 466 in Lady Lake, Dr. Novis still believes in putting his patients first.

“The new office will help us better accommodate patients and offer new services,” he says. “It is an exciting time for us as a practice.”

Always one to stay on the cutting-edge of medicine, Dr. Novis will be introducing several new exciting diagnostic and treatment options.

“The one area we are expanding is cardiac services. This will help us provide more readily available comprehensive care,” says Dr. Novis. “I always stay abreast of the latest technology and receive ongoing education so I can best serve my patients.”

The new office will also feature in-house diagnostics and a laboratory, continue to specialize in areas such as diabetes and women’s health and offer minor surgery services, wound care, pulmonary function tests for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients and echocardiogram and other sonograms to diagnose and treat vascular diseases, including peripheral vascular disease (PVD).

“We will have new staff members so we can be even more responsive to our patients’ needs,” says Dr. Novis. “As we make this transition, I want to thank our current patients for trusting us and I look forward to forming friendships with new patients, as well. There are a lot of changes, but what won’t change is taking care of patients to the best of our ability and keeping them out of the hospital. We will always be about total wellness.”

S NOVIS, M D , P A NORMAN S. M.D., P.A.

Advanced Urology Specialists

Advanced Urology Specialists has one simple mission: to offer innovative, highquality urologic care close to home.

“I’m really proud to be a part of a group of physicians who believe in providing the same, sometimes better, level of care that can be found at universities and places like Mayo Clinic,” says Dr. Richard Roach, who joined the practice in November. “This is great for our patients because it means they can receive the quality of care they need and deserve without having to visit a big city. Instead, we can do that … right here.”

Established in 2009, Advanced Urology Specialists was the groundbreaking result of five leading urology practices merging to form a shared vision for a new kind of urological care.

“Separately, we had worked together very cordially for years,” explains Dr. Andrew Sher, one of the founding partners. “But we decided to combine our talents to offer a more complete continuum of innovative and integrated care. As a group, we play to each other’s strengths and that allows us to be quicker and more efficient.”

With a reputation as the region’s most trusted resource for specialized care of male and female urological conditions, Advanced Urology Specialists employs a team approach when addressing anything from urinary incontinence to erectile dysfunction to prostate cancer.

Each urologist is a specialist trained in the latest techniques for treatment of various urologic problems with emphasis on minimally invasive procedures.

“For example, at a small practice one physician may be an expert in one treatment but not in another,” say Dr. Sher. “Because we are such a large group, we can make all treatment options available.”

“There isn’t an area we don’t treat,” adds Dr. Saumil Karavadia, who has been with the practice for a year. “We can help you achieve what you’re looking for as a patient because we have a very high level of expertise within our group.”

Cardiovascular Associates of Lake County

Cardiovascular Associates of Lake County has made strides to become one of the premier providers of cardiac care in Lake County and in Central Florida. Founded by Dr. J. Henry Lesmes in 1992, the practice bears a legacy of innovation, longevity and consistency that patients value.

“As one of the oldest private cardiology practices in the region, our group has stood as a pillar in the medical community for more than 20 years,” says Dr. Samuel Goss, an invasive cardiologist with Cardiovascular Associates. “We pride ourselves on maintaining such a stellar reputation.”

At Cardiovascular Associates, its team of board-certified physicians uses state-of-the-art methods to diagnose a wide range of cardiac and vascular diseases. The practice is also highly innovative, bringing cutting-edge services to its patients. Cardiovascular Associates brought the fi rst electrophysiology (EP) physician to the area, Dr. Miguel Bryce. Dr. Lesmes was one of the fi rst physicians to perform a heart catheterization in Lake County and the fi rst physician to perform a trans esophageal echocardiogram (TEE) at Florida Hospital Waterman.

Dr. Alejandro Caballero-Lopez, interventional cardiologist with Cardiovascular Associates, was one of the first physicians in Lake County to perform peripheral interventions, aortic aneurism repairs,

carotid stenting and pacemaker placements. And in 2011, Cardiovascular Associates brought the first cardiac PET to Lake County.

As a full service cardiology practice, Cardiovascular Associates provides complete care for any heart and vascular condition. The group also maintains privileges at the main area hospitals.

Individually, the highly trained cardiologists of Cardiovascular Associates possess unique capabilities that keep them on the cutting edge of advanced heart medicine. However, they collectively maintain a strong sense of camaraderie that assists in giving patients a full continuum of care and a sense of ease at every office visit.

“We have a team approach,” Dr. Goss says. “We strive to provide a relaxing, friendly, and inviting office environment so our patients always feel comfortable.”

“We have little turnover,” adds Dr. Fraifeld. “Many of our employees have worked with us for more than 10 years, and we have had the same core group of physicians for about 15 years.”

Strong partnerships, gracious professionalism, innovative technology and service with compassion are just a few of Cardiovascular Associates’ core standards. Over the years, these standards have helped make Cardiovascular Associates the place where employees want to work, physicians want to practice and patients want to receive cardiac care.

South Lake Hospital’s Cardiac Rehabilitation Center

In the past, those who needed cardiac rehabilitation in south Lake County had to travel as far away as Ocoee or north Lake County for help. However, all that has changed thanks to the opening of South Lake Hospital’s Cardiac Rehabilitation Center.

Located on the picturesque South Lake Hospital campus inside The South Lake Heart & Vascular Institute, this state-of-the-art center offers cardiac patients quality care close to home.

“This was one of the biggest underserved areas and we could see there was certainly a need for such a facility in the community,” says Matt Bolin, manager of cardiac services. “It took 16 months of planning and building, but now we can offer rehabilitation to patients who have experienced a heart attack or undergone a coronary intervention such as bypass surgery or open heart surgery.”

It has been proven that people who have suffered a heart attack or other heart condition often benefit from participating in a cardiac rehabilitation program as part of the recovery process. Therefore, at South Lake Hospital’s Cardiac Rehabilitation Center, patients participate in monitored outpatient exercise three times per week in a supportive, energetic and extremely inspiring environment.

“In addition to the great service and care we’re offering our patients, the building itself is amazing,” says Bolin. “It has a breathtaking view of the hills here in Clermont and was designed to be uplifting. And in turn, it inspires our staff, making this an upbeat, inviting center.”

At the Cardiac Rehabilitation Center, a patient’s physician, exercise physiologist and cardiac nurse work together to prescribe a customized program with the aim of improving exercise tolerance, strength and flexibility and controlling and minimizing risk factors.

“The ultimate goal is to get these cardiac patients

exercising on their own. It’s not just about getting strong again. It’s also about teaching our patients to make healthier choices,” says Bolin.

Therefore, the center offers guidance on how to manage controllable risk factors such as smoking, healthy eating and controlling hypertension and diabetes. In addition, once patients reach their goals in cardiac rehabilitation, they then move into the maintenance phase of recovery and have the opportunity to set personal fitness goals by working with exercise specialists and physiologists at South Lake Hospital’s LiveWell Fitness Center.

“Phase One is the actual cardiac event that lands the patient here,” says Bolin. “Phase Two is our rehabilitation center, which closely monitors the patient’s exercise program. The last is Phase Three, which is where we see the patient stepping off into independent exercise at our LiveWell Fitness Center. The cardiac rehab and fitness center team work closely together to transition cardiac rehab patients to a setting where patients can continue to maintain their healthy lifestyle.”

In the center’s first two months, it has already filled up serveral classes and are working on future plans that include expansion as the need grows for cardiac rehabilitation.

“So far, it’s been all word-of-mouth and the word has spread like wildfire,” says Bolin. “We could not be more pleased to see the response we’ve gotten from the community on this new addition to the South Lake Hospital campus.”

Chris Curry, ARNP, DPN

Dr. Tige Buchanan

Buchanan Health Center

As a well-known and respected chiropractor, Dr. Tige Buchanan lives by a simple yet powerful philosophy.

“My goal is to see patients less often and feeling better than more often and feeling bad.”

As a part of his dedication to putting patients back on the road to living and feeling healthy, Dr. Buchanan recently welcomed Chris Curry, ARNP, DPN, to the Buchanan Health Center.

A former naval aviator, Curry flew H-60 helicopters during Operation Desert Storm and earned a Silver Star and Navy Flying Cross.

After leaving his military commitment, Curry received a bachelor’s degree in nursing at the University of Florida and a master’s degree in nursing at the University of Tampa. He then returned to UF to obtain his doctorate of professional nursing degree.

Curry joins the practice at a time when the Buchanan Health Center is expanding. The practice, slated to re-launch in the new year, recently moved to a newly renovated 4,000-square-foot facility that will offer one-stop shopping for people’s health care needs.

“Times are changing and we are trying to think of the future by becoming cutting-edge in the sense that people can receive a wide range of services under one roof,” says Dr. Buchanan. “Before, we were strictly chiropractic, but the addition of Chris now allows us to offer medical care.”

Curry explains that his medical approach is a fusion of traditional and wellness health.

“I do traditional treatment but blend it with a more holistic view of medicine,” says Curry. “The objective is to give people the tools to live healthy and fi x issues, not put a bandage on it.”

Dr. Buchanan believe this level care is what has helped them establish a stellar reputation in and around the community.

“Reputation is paramount and I believe that is what sets us apart. We enjoy our patients, and as a result, we have a very high referral rate,” says Dr. Buchanan. “In teaming up with Chris, the goal is to get people feeling better with quality, more comprehensive care.”

Nevertheless, some facets of the Buchanan Health Center will never change. Providing a warm, inviting atmosphere has always been and will continue to be a fundamental part of the practice.

“You’re never just a number. We want people to be at ease and have access to us that reaches beyond the office. I have people come up to me on the street and talk to me about the state of their health, and I love that people feel comfortable enough with me to do that,” says Curry. “At the Buchanan Health Center, we want people to feel like it is an extension of their home. When they talk, we listen.”

da Vinci Xi Surgical System

Some believe a surgeon is only as good as his or her skill; however, highly experienced surgeons such as Dr. Kathleen Steepy have gotten even better since the implementation of the fourth generation da Vinci Xi Surgical System at The Villages Regional Hospital.

In May, Central Florida Health Alliance became the fi rst hospital system in the region and the fourth in the nation to install the new da Vinci Xi Surgical System.

Though most of the users of this robotic-assisted surgery system have historically been urology groups, Dr. Steepy, who has worked at TVRH for 12 years, has successfully used this latest technology to carry out a number of gynecologic procedures.

“Anything that can be done laparoscopically can be done using this system,” she says. “Since receiving my training, I have performed hysterectomies and removed ovarian masses. There is certainly a home for it in performing gynecologic surgery.”

When it comes to advantages, this state-ofthe-art system has many. It provides surgeons with real-time 3D, high-defi nition video and thin robotic arms that accomplish a greater range of motion than the human wrist. This creates a more natural extension of the surgeon’s eyes and hands, and as a result, reduces the size of incisions and decreases the amount of tissue damage.

“The technology results in less blood loss,

minimized scarring, less pain and quicker recovery times. So far, I’ve had good results with the new da Vinci Xi system and I have seen some good recoveries,” says Dr. Steepy. “I’m excited to have this minimally invasive surgery option at my disposal. As a physician, I try to keep up with the latest technology, and this certainly is on the cutting edge.”

vasive surgery at

Balloon angioplasty with stenting

Arteries are essential to the overall function of our bodies. They carry blood rich in oxygen and nutrients from the top of our heads to the tips of our toes.

When arteries are healthy, blood flows easily to our organs and tissues. However, when arteries become clogged with cholesterol-laden deposits called plaque, a person’s chances of a heart attack, stroke or even death increase drastically.

While diet and exercise can help manage arterial plaque, in some instances, intervention may be necessary. That is where Dr. Alejandro Caballero-Lopez with Cardiovascular Associates of Lake County comes in. He has been performing balloon angioplasty and stent placement for 17 years. During this procedure, the main goal is to open up fully or partially blocked arteries.

“When plaque blockage reaches over 70 percent, balloon angioplasty with stenting becomes the best treatment option,” explains Dr. Caballero-Lopez. “The angioplasty uses a balloon, which is attached to the tip of a catheter, to widen blocked arteries. As the balloon inflates, pressing against the inside wall of the artery to open the space, a metal stent is permanently placed inside the artery to keep it from narrowing again.”

While balloon angioplasty is commonly used to treat narrowed coronary arteries caused by coronary artery disease, Dr. Caballero-Lopez explains the procedure also works to clear blocked peripheral and carotid arteries.

Arterial plaque buildup in the carotid arteries can lead to stroke while plaque accumulation in peripheral arteries can cause pain, numbness or serious infection in the legs and feet. Nevertheless, after performing balloon angioplasty with stenting in affected arteries, Dr. Caballero-Lopez reports most of his patients feel immediate relief.

“Some feel great after having the procedure,” he says, “and because it is less invasive than open heart surgery or a bypass, recovery time is a minimum of one day.”

In battling serious conditions such as coronary, carotid or peripheral artery disease, the best line of defense is seeking a physician’s help when experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath and heart palpitations. While the procedure is elective in most cases, sometimes it becomes a matter of life and death.

“We’re on call 24/7 for acute cases,” says Dr. Caballero-Lopez. “Many whom I’ve treated would have died if we didn’t have such a high level of dedication to those who need us not only in the office but also in emergency situations. We’ve basically saved lives, and to me, that is extremely rewarding.”

‘Back’ to a normal life with minimally-invasive spine surgery

For Dr. James Paraiso of Central Florida Spine Institute, there’s no greater reward than seeing patients go from debilitating pain to no pain. By utilizing a technique known as minimally invasive lumbar surgery, he helps patients suffering from back and/or leg pain lead a healthy, painfree life. Since he is one of only 20 percent of spine surgeons in the country who perform minimally invasive lumbar surgery, residents of The Villages seeking state-of-the-art spine care no longer need to travel to larger cities.

What does this technique entail? Rather than stripping and dissecting muscles, which is the norm with traditional open spine surgery, he makes a small incision then operates through a tubular retractor with the diameter of a quarter. As a result, muscle is preserved and soft tissue trauma is minimized.

He uses this technique for multiple spine surgeries, including discectomies, laminectomies, fusions and kyphoplasty for compression fractures. He teaches it to orthopedic surgeons and orthopedic residents around the country.

“With minimally invasive lumbar surgery, patients experience less blood loss and less postoperative pain,” he says. “They also have immediate mobility.”

Having been in practice for 10 years, Dr. Paraiso’s reputation and results speak for themselves. He has maintained a complication rate of less than one percent. Furthermore, he has performed surgeries on people far away as Michigan because

satisfied patients from The Villages return to their native state and recommend him to family members and friends. Also, doctors throughout Florida routinely refer patients to Dr. Paraiso.

Of course, his meticulous surgical skill is not the only reason he is an outstanding physician. Honesty, integrity and open communication is the foundation of his practice’s success. He never recommends surgery unless it is necessary and openly encourages patients to seek alternative treatments such as chiropractic, physical therapy and acupuncture.

“For me, it is important to do the right thing for each patient and treat them like a member of my own family.”

Dr. Paraiso grew up in Ocala and is a 1988 graduate of St. John Lutheran School. He later graduated from the University of Florida with bachelor degrees in biology and religion and then attended Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed his residency at Michigan State University and his spine fellowship at Florida Orthopedic Institute.

“I chose to specialize in spine surgery because it’s challenging,” he says. “I think it is fascinating that a condition so debilitating can be fi xed. I love seeing residents of The Villages become free of back and leg pain and getting to enjoy the activities they love again. That’s why I’m so passionate about my job and why I wake up excited to go to work each and every day.”

G. Ramos, M.D. , FACR BOARD CERTIFIED IN RHEUMATOLOGY

ROMULO Camogliano, M.D. BOARD CERTIFIED INTERNAL MEDICINE JANET Baker King, ARNP

RONNIE JANE Boekema, ARNP

Vision is such an inherent part of our interpretation and enjoyment of the world that we often take it for granted. Over time, vision can become so subtly impaired that it goes largely unnoticed until simple tasks like reading, driving or making your way through a dark room become problematic. This is the time most people seek optical care, but for the long-term health of your eyes, the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Optometric Association recommend eye exams in children starting at 6 months old, and regularly thereafter as the eyes develop. Barring noticeable eye or vision problems, most people ages 20 – 39 can cut appointments back to every five years, and then from 40 – 64, when eyesight typically begins to change more rapidly, people should have a comprehensive eye exam every two to four years to check for eye disease and vision problems. People 65 and older should have a full exam every one to two years to catch any signs of macular degeneration, a torn or detached retina, cataracts or glaucoma, which, when caught early, can be arrested or repaired.

The doctors and professional staff of Lake Eye Associates want to see patients treat their eyes with a focus on preventing vision loss, instead of just correcting it after the loss occurs. “People don’t hesitate to get their teeth checked regularly,” says Lake Eye’s Mark Vocci, MD. “I’d like them to be as conscientious about their eyes. An eye exam is quick and painless, and can save people’s vision.” Interestingly, Dr.

Vocci’s history treating patients with itchy, watery eyes led him to add another specialty to his general eye care services: allergy immunotherapy. “Allergy drops are a safe, convenient substitute for painful allergy shots and, when taken under the tongue at home over the course of four years, can permanently rid people of airborne allergy symptoms.”

Lake Eye has three locations, in Leesburg, Tavares and an office in The Villages, which is also home to the Santa Fe Surgery Center, a state-ofthe-art outpatient surgical facility owned by a team of doctors including two of Lake Eye’s board certified ophthalmologists, Drs. Scott Wehrly and Scot Holman. There, Drs. Wehrly and Holman perform advanced eye surgeries, including the LensX® refractive laser surgical system. “LensX® is the fastest, safest, most accurate and technologically-advanced cataract surgery system in the world,” says Dr. Wehrly, “and we were the first in the area to perform it.”

Adds Dr. Holman, “It is a perfect compliment to ReStor® and Toric® multi-focal intraocular lens implantation, which can correct both close and distance vision during the same quick surgery.”

Lake Eye also offers blepharoplasty to correct excessively baggy, drooping or outward- or inward-turning eyelids, performed by Comprehensive Ophthalmologist, Shelby Terpstra, DO. “Eyelids can cause vision and cosmetic problems,” says Dr. Terpstra. “What I

Lifetime

love about this surgery is that it not only helps restore people’s vision, but also their appearance and confidence.”

New to Lake Eye, but not to vision care, is Dr. Vinay Gutti, who specializes in a myriad optical procedures, including glaucoma and cataract surgeries and corneal transplants. “IOLs, also know as intraocular lenses, come in a variety of types to treat cataracts and correct vision,” says Dr. Gutti. “IOL implantation is one of the most popular

eye surgeries being performed today, and can help most people reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses or contacts.” For people who don’t mind, and even enjoy, wearing glasses or contacts, each of the three offices features a full-service on-site optical center that offers eye exams from ophthalmologists, a staff of licensed opticians, and a vast selection of name-brand fashion and sports frames, an array of lenses from single vision to customized progressive, and a full line of

contact lenses, including disposable, color, bifocal, and toric for people with astigmatism. With thousands of frames, contacts and lens options to choose from, there is something for every member of the family.

No matter what age or stage in life, Lake Eye Associates has something for everyone seeking a lifetime of clear, healthy vision. For more information, visit www.LakeEye.com.

OPHTHALMOLOGISTS (from left to right) :

retina care improving through research

In the ever-expanding field of retina care, vitreoretinal specialist and surgeon Dr. Shalesh Kaushal is excited that the Retina Specialty Institute continues to play a key role in furthering medical advances through its participation in clinical trials and giving patients access to the most advanced care.

A clinician scientist with a strong academic background, Dr. Kaushal takes great pride in being involved in cutting-edge clinical trials to treat many conditions of retinal disease. He earned his medical degree from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, Md., and his Ph.D. from Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

His work as head of the retina division at the University of Florida in Gainesville has helped cultivate his passion for solving problems for both his patients and the scientific community. As result, he has earned a reputation as being a selfless visionary and compassionate practitioner.

As an avid researcher, Dr. Kaushal has participated in numerous clinical trials involving revolutionary breakthroughs in retina care such as gene therapy, stem cell treatment, and new drugs. And he is bringing these breakthroughs to Retina Specialty Institute’s Villages office, which is conveniently located in the Sharon Morse building Suite 532.

High on the list of innovations is the use of stem cells. “There are many types of stem cells, but there are two basic kinds that we look at. There are cells that can rejuvenate tissue and then there are types that can actually regenerate and replace cells that are lost through normal wear and tear, injury, or disease,” says Dr. Kaushal. “We want to bring those types of trials to The Villages.”

The Retina Specialty Institute is also highly involved in researching the use of nutraceuticals to treat a variety of visionthreatening diseases, especially within his field of specialty: inherited retinal and macular diseases like retinitis pigmentosa

(RP) and Stargardt disease as well as age-related macular degeneration (ARMD). “Instead of patients receiving injections to treat dry macular degeneration, we are hoping to find oral medications to mediate the disease,” he says. “We’re bringing exciting research to Central Florida.”

As a FDA-approved clinical trial study center, Retina Specialty Institute is known widely among major pharmaceutical companies, peers, and patients for delivering continual peak performance. The goal is to use the research to provide patients with better results while being less intrusive.

Aside from his contributions and active involvement in clinical research, Dr. Kaushal carries a real passion for charity — as proven by his many diligent hours caring for and treating underserved populations in local communities as well as abroad.

Dr. Kaushal also enjoys the sacred relationship between doctor and patient and makes it a point to communicate in a way that is both clear and understandable. He considers it a great honor to provide quality patient care that not only restores sight and improves vision but also increases quality of life.

The surgeons of Retina Specialty Institute are lending shape to the unknown, forging the next generation of knowledge and technology that help preserve the gift of sight from retina diseases like diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration.

BODY

CAN THE SODIUM TO HAVE A SOUPER MEAL

WRITER: ANNA GUNTER

Canned soups are generally high in sodium, and it’s important to limit the amount of sodium you eat to prevent high blood pressure. According to the 2010 USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans, dietary sodium intake should be limited to less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day (the amount of sodium in one teaspoon of salt).

OHOMEMADE CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP

INGREDIENTS:

12 cups water (or 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth plus 6 cups water): Chicken broth will add flavor, but it will also add sodium. By replacing half of the broth with water, you can decrease the sodium content of the soup.

2 pounds skinless chicken

1 medium onion, chopped

3 stalks celery, chopped

3 carrots, washed and cut into one-inch slices

1 bell pepper (red, green, orange, or yellow), chopped

4 cloves garlic, chopped

2 bay leaves

soup instead of salt

Persons 51 and older and persons of any age who have diabetes, high blood pressure or chronic kidney disease should further reduce dietary sodium intake to 1,500 milligrams per day. For a lower- sodium alternative to canned soup, you can make homemade soup, and use herbs and spices to add flavor to the soup instead of salt.

RED PEPPERS

These peppers are the most fully ripe and most mature. This is unquestionably the sweetest, juiciest pepper of them all. They contain the antioxidant lycopene, which is said to lower the risk of several cancers.

Vitamin A

Red peppers: 105% daily value

GREEN PEPPERS

Green peppers are less expensive than other varieties because they are harvested before becoming fully ripe. Their slightly bitter flavor differs from the sweet taste of their red and yellow counterparts.

Vitamin A

Green peppers: 12% daily value

ORANGE AND YELLOW PEPPERS

While people enjoy these peppers for their fruity, sweet taste, they are less commonly found in grocery stores than green and red peppers.

Vitamin A

Yellow peppers: 3.6% daily value

¼ teaspoon ground sage

¼ teaspoon ground thyme

1/8 teaspoon ground rosemary

½ teaspoon chopped fresh basil

1/8 cup chopped fresh parsley

2 cups fresh or canned diced tomatoes with juice (Use no-saltadded tomatoes to avoid added sodium if you use canned)

7 cups cooked whole wheat pasta

DIRECTIONS:

1. Place chicken and water in a large pot. Add onion, celery, peppers, garlic, bay leaves, sage, thyme, rosemary and tomatoes.

2. Place pot on stove over high heat, and bring contents of pot to a boil. Then reduce the heat, cover and simmer for one hour.

3. After one hour, add carrots, parsley and basil.

4. Simmer about 20 minutes until carrots are tender.

5. Add a dash of black pepper to taste.

6. Prepare pasta separately. Place 1/3 cup pasta in each bowl, and pour soup over pasta. (Prepare and store pasta separately from the soup to prevent pasta from becoming soggy.)

Note: This recipe makes approximately 20 cups of soup.

ANNA GUNTER, RD, LD/N is a registered dietitian and American College of Sports Medicine Certified Health Fitness Specialist. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in food science and human nutrition from the University of Florida and a Master of Science degree in nutrition and physical performance from Saint Louis University. Anna is the outpatient dietitian at Florida Hospital Waterman in Tavares.

SHAPE

GET ON THE BALL

GRAB DUMBBELLS FOR SMART WORKOUTS

WRITER: KRIS HALL

STEP 1

STARTING POSITION: Sit on the stability ball holding each dumbbell with your thumbs wrapped around the handles and your feet flat on the floor.

STEP 2

Pull your shoulders down and back until you feel your shoulder blades hugging the ball. Position the dumbbells near your chest and armpits with your palms facing one another. Keep your wrists in a neutral position (straight, not bent).

STEP 3

Exhale, engage your abdominal/core muscles to stabilize your spine. Slowly press the dumbbells upward to a position directly above your chest. Arms should be shoulder-width apart or closer with your elbows straight but not locked. Throughout the movement remember to keep your feet pressed into the ground and the hips pushed up toward the ceiling. This will create core work during the movement.

STEP 4

Inhale and slowly lower the dumbbells in a wide arc until the dumbbells are level with or near the height of your chest. Try to keep the dumbbells parallel with each other.

STEP 5

Repeat by returning the dumbbells toward the ceiling following the same soft arc pattern of the downward phase. Repeat in sets of 8.

STABILITY BALL DUMBBELL FLY

Snack time at my house is perhaps very different than most.

I insist my kids eat healthy and clean so our cabinets and refrigerators are full of healthy options. Though, with organic snacks like blue corn chips, pretzels and other bagged goodies, my children gladly prefer apple slices instead. I love it. I’m more than happy to simply cut slices for them and add a little protein with a spoonful of almond butter. In addition, I will plop down on the couch and together we will gobble them up. I have been accused of hogging the almond butter, but who can blame me? I love the stuff. In addition, this palette-pleasing snack supplies a mix of natural sugars, protein and heart-healthy fats. It’s quick, it’s easy and it’s a great preworkout snack.

STABILITY BALL OVERHEAD DUMBBELL TRICEP EXTENSION IN SQUAT POSITION

STEP 1

Grab a dumbbell and sit on ball. Sit upright with feet flat on floor about shoulder-width apart.

STEP 2

Slide your butt down the ball to a squat supported by the ball behind your back. Lie back, arched over the curve of the ball.

STEP 3

Raise dumbbell over your head with arms straight. Stretch back, using your abs to support the full range.

STEP 4

Bring the dumbbell behind your head slowly. Inhale as you do so, and stop for a second when your triceps are fully extended.

STEP 5

Flex your triceps and return to the starting position. You should exhale as you do.

VORITE

FAVORITE WALKING SHOES: Asics GEL-Quickwalk 2

FIRST WORKOUT WAS AT WHAT AGE?: 22

FAVORITE HEALTHY FOOD: Salads with spinach and feta cheese

WHAT PROMPTED YOU TO START EXERCISING?: Keeping slim

COOL DOWN: HALF PIGEON YOGA POSE

STEP 1

FAVORITE CHEAT FOOD : Vanilla cake with raspberry filling and cream cheese icing

WHAT KEEPS YOU DOING IT?: Keeping sane

FAVORITE WALKING SONGS: Pop favorites from the ’70s through today

STEP 3

Start in downward facing dog.

STEP 2

Slide your le g

Bring your right knee to the outside of your right wrist and place leg on the floor, right heel in line with left hip. Slide your left leg all the way back.

Go ahead start and knoow you want to one.

TASTY BONUS: CHOCOLATE LOVERS REJOICE. Adding a drizzle of dark chocolate that contains 70 percent or more cocoa can help improve circulation, digestion and neutrailize free radicals. Adding granola or oats is a nice touch, as well. Go ahead start slicing; and you know you want to try one.

Inhale, draw length out of your spine and on an exhale, bring your chest and head to the floor, walking your hands out in front of you. Try to center your hips without leaning too far to either side.

STEP 4

Hold for at least a couple of minutes and then repeat on left side.

MODEL: Kristin Hall, membership director and event coordinator at Harbor Hills Country Club.

PHOTOS: Matthew Gaulin,

STAFF

PICK

SOURCE: menshealth.co.uk/food-nutrition/muscle-foods/essential-pre-workout-snacks, carinanorris.co.uk

STAFF PICK

SP

WINTERIZE YOUR SKIN

WRITER: RUTH ANN BYRD

The skin is your body’s largest organ, providing a barrier against extreme climate, water loss, pollution and pathogens.

Maintaining healthy skin is necessary for the health of your entire body and requires both internal and external care. This means proper diet, nutrition and hormone balance, as well as application of topical products such as exfoliants, antioxidants and hydrators.

exfolia Her

Here are a few tips to keep your skin looking soft and dewy all winter long:

FOR INTERNAL SKIN CARE

DRINK LOTS OF WATER.

The average person needs a minimum of 8–10 glasses per day. This can include fruit and vegetable juices and herbal teas. High-caffeine drinks and alcohol should be limited as they can be dehydrating.

EAT AT LEAST FIVE SERVINGS OF FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLES DAILY. Preferably organic and raw.

TAKE A DAILY MULTIPLE VITAMIN WITH ANTIOXIDANTS. Consult with a nutritionist for advice.

GET PLENTY OF ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS. These are found in flaxseed, walnuts, sesame seeds, avocado and green leafy vegetables.

SUBSTITUTE FISH (salmon, tuna) for beef and pork.

FOR EXTERNAL SKIN CARE

AVOID OVERHEATING YOUR HOME AND WORKPLACE. This can overdry the air and your skin.

USE AN EXFOLIATING CLOTH OR BODY BRUSH. This gently buffs away dead skin cells from your face and body. Sugar and salt scrubs can be helpful, too, especially on the heels, knees and elbows.

RETHINK YOUR WINTER SKIN ROUTINE. You generally require a heavier moisturizer in dry, cool weather. Serums and moisturizers containing hyaluronic and lactic acids will smooth, plump and moisturize dry skin.

RUTH ANN BYRD, owner of Aesthetic Skin Solutions in The Villages, is a licensed aesthetician specializing in skin rejuvenation and clinical treatment of sun damage, rosacea and acne. She is also licensed in electrolysis, laser hair removal and permanent makeup. She can be contacted at 352.874.3653.

When it comes to your reflection, you can be your own toughest critic. Even that favorite outfit can feel off-limits because of stubborn fat that resists diet and exercise. But the CoolSculpting procedure shapes what you see without surgery or downtime, so you’ll look great from every angle. With over 1 million CoolSculpting procedures worldwide, people everywhere are getting a better view of themselves thanks to individual treatment plans tailored specifically to their bodies.

Before Before

16 Weeks After Session 16 Weeks After Session

VOCAL ABOUT LOCAL FRESH

WHEN IT COMES TO FOOD

WRITER: MARYANN HOLDEN, CHHC AADP LPN

Living in Florida, we should feel extremely blessed to have access to locally grown food year round.

Local food is fresher and tastes better than food that is trucked or flown in from thousands of miles away. There is nothing quite like enjoying a salad made with fresh lettuce and tomatoes. Your body lights up with these vital nutrients. Think there’s no difference? There is a big difference in how it tastes and how you feel after you eat it.

Local foods are seasonal and taste better. Having only certain foods at different times of the year leads to greater appreciation. In-season, locally grown tomatoes burst with flavor that’s easy to forget if you eat only tomatoes artificially ripened with gas. Fresh-picked corn in season tastes best when you haven’t eaten any in nine or 10 months. There’s nothing like the very first bite of the summer.

Eating locally means eating seasonally, and with local farm markets, you get only what is in season.

LOCAL FOODS USUALLY HAVE LESS ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT THAN THOSE SHIPPED IN.

Look for farmers who follow organic and sustainable growing practices and energy use to minimize your food’s environmental impact. Eating locally preserves green space and farmland. The age-old environmental question of where your food comes from is bigger than its “carbon footprint.” By buying foods grown and raised closer to where you live, you help maintain farmland and green space in your area.

LOCAL FOODS PROMOTE FOOD SAFETY.

The fewer steps between your food’s source and your table, the less chance there is of contamination. Also, when you know where your food comes from and who grows it, you know a lot more about the food. During the E. coli outbreak in spinach in 2006, I knew the spinach in my refrigerator was safe because I knew it was grown by the farmer at the local farm market.

LOCAL FOODS HELP SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ECONOMY.

Money spent with local farmers, growers and restaurants stays close to home. It works to build your local economy instead of being handed over to a corporation in another city, state, or country. Since the food moves through fewer hands, more of the money you spend tends to get to the people growing it.

LOCAL FOODS CREATE COMMUNITY.

Knowing where your food comes from connects you to the people who raise and grow it. Instead of having a single relationship — to a big supermarket — you develop smaller connections to more food sources. I have noticed that when I go to the local farm market each week, I see the pride on the face of the farmer who has planted the seeds, watered the plants, cultivated the crops, harvested the produce and happily shares the abundance with the local community and does so with love for what they are doing. It’s called vitamin L, and it is naturally added to your food and you can actually taste it with each bite.

the and shares the abundance with the local and does so with love for what are it, like it

Try it, you’ll like it.

IS ALWAYS BEST

MARYANN HOLDEN, CHHC, AADP, LPN Maryann

Holden has worked as a nurse for over 25 years in nursing homes and assisted-living facilities. Having dealt with many sick people, she decided to become a certified holistic health counselor. She graduated from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York City and is accredited by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners.

BODY AR

CHECK YOUR OIL, MA’AM?

THERE’S PURE POWER IN NATURAL COMPOUNDS

WRITER: STEPHANIE CLUNN

Today we’ll explore essential oils, which can support basic and more advanced health issues.

If you’ve ever enjoyed the scent of a rose or broken into a fresh orange and whiffed that first fragrance, you’ve experienced the aromatic qualities of essential oils.

These naturally occurring, aromatic compounds are harvested from seeds, bark, stems, roots, flowers and other parts of plants and are 50 to 70 times more powerful than the plant itself. A single drop of peppermint oil is the equivalent of 28 cups of peppermint tea.

Essential oils give the plants a defense system and have been used in food prep, beauty regimens and most powerfully in health care protocols.

Purity is all important. A 100 percent therapeutic grade

essential oil will offer the highest health benefit. Choosing oils harvested from artisan growers and proper chemical testing is the best way to ensure purity.

With cold and flu season raging, know that essential oils can be used to prevent coughs, colds, flu, congestion, headaches, muscle pain and so much more.

From digestive issues, hormonal imbalances and even more serious health issues, essential oils can affect your health in a positive way without side effects, addiction or ineffectiveness, which can often be the result of synthetic medications.

Children and adults with

ADD/ADHD, autism, sleep disorders, allergies and acne have all benefited from essential oils. Clinical depression, weight loss, focus and memory issues as well as auto-immune disorders may all be affected positively with their application.

Known to have originated in Asia and the Mediterranean region, mint has been known for its many benefits throughout history. Greeks used to clean their banqueting tables with the herb and added it to their baths to stimulate their bodies, while Romans used it in sauces as an aid to digestion and as a mouth freshener.

STEPHANIE CLUNN has lived in Lake County for more than 8 years and is the mother to seven. She and her husband Jeff and family operate a small 7 acre hobby farm in Mount Dora and dedicate themselves to empowering others in taking their health care in hand with 100% pure essential oils. Contact her at healfromhomenow@gmail.com

MIND

GUIDELINES// BRAIN GAMES DESTINATION// ENDEAVOR

A CLICK AWAY FROM MAJOR CONSEQUENCE 120 WHEEL WORDS AND MORE 121 RESOLVE TO NOT RESOLVE 122 READ ANY GOOD BOOKS LATELY 123

GUIDE

A CLICK AWAY FROM MAJOR CONSEQUENCE

WRITER: GREG FRESCOLN

What do you do when you can’t do your homework?

Most parents would say, “Go to tutoring after school.”

Good try, Mom and Dad. What many students do is turn to the Internet. Some sites are legitimate and helpful and require a subscription. Others are dubious and push the bounds of ethics. Yet others, though not illegal, allow students to cheat.

Many college students are placed on probation or dismissed for such activities. Don’t let your child be one of them.

Here are stats from three major Florida universities.

NUMBER OF STUDENTS DISCIPLINED FOR ACADEMIC DISHONESTY, CHEATING, OR PLAGIARISM

University A 92

University B 275

University C 293

HERE ARE SOME GUIDELINES TO GAUGE WHERE YOUR CHILD’S BEHAVIOR FALLS:

2012-13

2012-13

2013-14

GREG FRESCOLN has been the administrator at First Academy-Leesburg since 1993. A native of Iowa, Greg graduated from Iowa State University in 1985 with degrees in history and international studies. He graduated from the University of Florida in 1990 with a master’s degree in education and in 2000 graduated with a specialist degree in K-12 education.

in K-1

LEGIT:

LEGIT

Sites that charge a fee, paid for by the parents. Your student comes to you and says he or she can’t figure out a problem. You, the parent, type in the problem and get a step-by-step solution to print out. You then ask your child to show you his or her work, you point out where the slip-up is and you don’t show them the solution.

DUBIOUS:

Children type in a question on a search engine and receive several answers; they then rephrase the answer in their own words. They may technically be learning from this activity, and for an English or history class, this may be legit, but in a science, grammar or math class, in which exact answers are needed, it’s very borderline if not outright cheating

CHEATING:

Wheel Words PX 0125 © Lovatts Puzzles

BRAIN GAMES

WHEEL WORDS

Create as many words of four letters or more using the given letters once only but always including the middle letter. Do no use proper names or plurals. See if you can find the 9-letter word using up all letters.

24 Good 28 Very Good

31+ Excellent

9-letter word: GENTLEMAN. Wheel Words PX 0002 © Lovatts Puzzles

Lament,

Alee,

CALkuro

The puzzle that makes you smarter!

Lovatts CALkuro is a logic puzzle inspired by the popular KenKen and Kendoku puzzles originally created by Japanese math teacher Tetsuya Miyamoto.

• A number may be repeated in a Set, but not in a row or column.

• For a 4x4 puzzle use the numbers 1-4, for a 6x6 puzzle use the numbers 1-6 and so on.

• The numbers in each Set (set of heavily-outlined same-coloured cells) must combine to equal the number in the top corner using the arithmetic sign in the top corner.

• Sets with just one cell can be filled in straight away with the number in the top corner.

• Enter option numbers at the bottom of each cell. Remember no number can occur more than once in any row, column or color.

ANSWERS:

SUDOKU SHAPESHIFTER

To solve this warped Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in:

• Each of the nine vertical columns

• Each of the nine horizontal rows

• Each of the nine different coloured shapes

Remember no number can occur more than once in any row, column or color.

Elan, Gale, Glam, Glee, Glen, Lame, Lane, Late, Lean, Lent, Male, Malt, Meal, Melt, Tael,

Tale, Teal, Aglet, Angel, Angle, Eagle, Elate, Gleam, Glean, Leant, Metal, Eaglet, Enamel, Gentle,

Lateen, Legate, Mangle, Mantel, Mantle, Mental, Tangle, Elegant, Melange, Entangle.

DESTINATION MIND

last night. Or we look to the other side of the bed and realize we’re still a long way from relational harmony with our significant other.

Then our resolve dissolves.

So what is the key to being steadfast in what we want to accomplish in the next year?

We must learn to think differently. Our minds need a renewal. The good news is, this is not something only for a new year. We can commit to this anytime.

RESOLVE TO NOT RESOLVE

You can’t reach your New Year’s destination if you don’t have a starting point

WRITER: SCOTT PERKINS

Another new year is upon us.

Sometime in the last few weeks you have likely looked to the next year and made a resolution, or a goal, or thought about how you would like things to be different in the coming 12 months. We have the tendency to fall into the trap of viewing the new year as a fresh start or a clean slate.

This is a situation when our cyclic view of time works against us. The abundance of made-up statistics about how long it is before people break their resolutions belies a cultural truth: Overwhelmingly, we do not keep the promises to ourselves we make on the evening of Dec. 31.

If we did, we’d be a nation of rock-hard abs, no debt and low stress.

I’m not trying to be a killjoy, but the truth is, we wake up the morning of Jan. 1 and realize the slate is not clean. We are still overweight, craving carbs and having no time for the gym. Or we are even more in debt because we used the credit card to fund the party we threw

To be successful, we need more than a picture of where we want to go, though that is a must. We also need a truthful picture of where we are. Think Google maps: When you want directions, you also have to input an origin. It takes both pieces of information to create meaningful directions.

An exercise to help would be to write at the bottom of a piece of paper what your resolution or goal in an area of your life is, and at the top write where you are at present. Then, in between, you have plenty of space to, write the steps you will take to reach your destination.

Six-pack abs and living debtfree do not happen in one big step. Thinking smaller will help you succeed.

Another element of success is

to change the way you handle setbacks. Stumbling is an opportunity to evaluate and learn. OK, we can agree the chocolate bar you ate wasn’t part of the weight-loss strategy. How can you avoid that next time? Did you eat that for comfort? What could you substitute for chocolate for comfort? A walk, maybe? It takes diligence to think differently; you have probably been doing it the same way for a long time.

Also, plan celebrations. Since there are a lot of little steps to reaching a larger goal, there are a lot of opportunities to celebrate. Mark the moments. It can be as easy as calling a friend when you’ve run your first mile, or writing a note to your spouse when you’ve overcome your first conflict without a nuclear meltdown.

Rather than a resolution this year, think differently about what you want this year. It will make all the difference in your level of success.

SCOTT PERKINS is a coach, speaker, writer and the founder of Perkins Communications LLC. He has been successful in coaching pastors, church leaders, those who want to improve leadership and team dynamics, and people who want to understand their spiritual identity. You can find out more at perkinsperspectives.com. In his spare time he enjoys paddleboarding and bike riding with his wife and daughter in Groveland.

“SOMETIMES

IT’S THE JOURNEY THAT TEACHES YOU A LOT ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION.” —DRAKE

READ ANY GOOD BOOKS LATELY?

WRITER: GREG FRESCOLN

The average United States fourth-grader’s reading score in 2009 was above average in the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study, according to that publication of the National Center for Education Statistics. But that average U.S. student was below that of fourth-graders in 10 of the 45 countries and Canadian provinces involved in the study (behind the Russian Federation, Hong Kong, Alberta, British Columbia, Singapore, Luxembourg, Ontario, Hungary, Italy and Sweden).

Among the countries that participated in both the 2001 and 2006 studies, the number of countries that outperformed the United States increased from three in 2001 to seven in 2006. How can the average person help reverse this trend? Read to children on a regular basis. Daily reading will help increase comprehension and fluency.

Reading shouldn’t be presented to children as a chore or a duty. It should be offered as a gift.

— Kate DiCamillo

GREG FRESCOLN has been the administrator at First AcademyLeesburg since 1993. A native of Iowa, Greg graduated from Iowa State University in 1985 with degrees in history and international studies. He graduated from the University of Florida in 1990 with a master’s degree in education and in 2000 graduated with a specialist degree in K-12 education.

SPIRIT DIRECT

LET YOUR ‘YES’ MEAN ‘YES’

DISCIPLINE AND LOVE SHOULD GO HAND IN HAND

WRITER: DAVE BRABHAM JR.

Ibelieve with all my heart discipline is one the hardest issues parents face. We live in a world in which many “experts” believe we should allow our kids to shape their own character. If parents are too hard on their children, the theory goes they may keep them from becoming who they want to be.

Discipline has been given a bad name because of abusive parents and we live in a society filled with parents afraid to raise their children. The result? Children are not given any guidance or structure when they not only need these things, they want them.

As parents we must first understand that we have been given a responsibility from God to raise our children His way.

A parent has a great ministry. In fact, it is parents’ first ministry. The Bible is full of examples that will strengthen us all as “ministers to our children.” Several passages provide clear instructions on parenting. From these verses I would like to give you some simple tips in discipline I believe will bring life-changing truth in how you relate to your kids.

So-called experts may insist children should be allowed to find their own way, without a parent’s discipline. I disagree. And so does God’s word. And His way is always the best way.

1. DISCIPLINE YOUR KIDS OUT OF LOVE. Biblical discipline is an act of love, not frustration or anger. The Bible says to “… be angry and sin not!” Never let discipline come out of anger. Whatever method you use, take action out of love. Choosing to not discipline is another form of abuse. It is neglect. The Bible says: “A refusal to correct is a refusal to love; love your children by disciplining them.”

2. CONSISTENCY IS THE KEY. We must learn to be consistent in discipline. If you tell little Johnny there will be no television tonight because he did not listen but you change your mind, you are sending the wrong message. The Bible says, “Let your yes be yes, and your no be no. Always mean what you say. Always follow through.

3. KEEP YOUR KIDS ON THE RIGHT PATH. Children who are always corrected or punished but never encouraged often become frustrated and begin to think they are unable to please their parents. Give your children 100 times as many hugs and kisses as you give punishment. The key is to be loving in correction. The Bible says, “A youngster’s heart is filled with foolishness, but physical discipline will drive it far away.”

4. SET UP YOUR KIDS FOR SUCCESS. Being a firm disciplinarian is hard, but parents who provide loving discipline set up their children for success. Discipline prepares our kids for real life. Have you ever been around an “unruly child” in a public place? My heart is always broken for the child, because he or she grows up with no direction, and it is not the child’s fault. That child is being set up for failure.

5. HAVE A HEALTHY AND HAPPY FAMILY. The Bible says “discipline your children and they will give you peace of mind and will make your heart glad.” The duty of the parent is no easy task. Sometimes we can know we’ve done everything right and still our children don’t seem to get it. But God has a “blueprint” for us to follow in parenting and he is true to his word.

DAVE BRABHAM JR. is the children’s pastor at LakeHaven Church in Eustis. He has been in children’s ministry with his wife Beth for over a decade. They have three children and love every opportunity they have to share God’s love with kids and parents.

OLD SPIES DON’T RETIRE

Ihave a friend whose birthday is about 10 days before mine. We were born the same year, and this year is one of those dreaded “decade” birthdays.

I remembered his natal day and shot him the typical happy birthday email with no reference whatsoever to our age. The email must have pinged his iPhone because he called soon after. Soon into our conversation, he was bemoaning us crossing the decade marker and talking about old age and retirement.

All of his lamenting caused dark clouds to gather over my heart about my growing maturity. Then I recalled something I’d read years ago about longevity that stopped me from counting in reverse, or marking my birthdays by counting only the decades — something that made me adjust my thinking.

It’s an easily overlooked story about a man named Caleb. Maybe you know about this fellow; his story is partially told in Joshua 14 of the Old Testament. As a 40-year-old, he had a career in espionage. He and 11 others were sent to slip into the land of Canaan, check out the situation and report on the prospects. He and another fellow submitted the “minority” report, believing they could occupy the territory. The other 10 said, “No way!”

His career was not even close to over at this young age.

Fast-forward 45 years to another encounter with this same man when he stood alone trusting God and announcing his steady opinion that they could overcome the giants who’d inhabited Canaan. In his

the later years of his life.

He is a model for me to follow as I pass the latest decade marker. You and I should aspire for that life. A long life with purpose and courage lived in obedience to the Lord

own words, Caleb says, “And now, behold, I am this day eighty-five years old. I am still as strong today as I was in the day that Moses sent me; my strength now is as my strength was then, for war and for going and coming.”

Did you see that? Caleb may have actually been saying those words on his 85th birthday. He did not let the clouds obscure the sunshine of his long life. He looked at himself and said, “Bring it!”

Caleb was up in years, but he was not over the hill. That’s obvious from his next words: “So now give me this hill country of which the Lord spoke on that day, for you heard on that day how the giants were there, with great fortified cities. It may be that the Lord will be with me, and I shall drive them out just as the Lord said.”

He wasn’t even close to thinking about retirement. Here is a man with a vision for

is not something we ought to sit in the recliner and pipe-dream about. It is attitude and action melded together in the core of who we are. I’m going to wear my hiking boots on my birthday this year just so I can remember Caleb’s example. I’m not sure I know where to find any giants’ butts to kick, but I’m gonna go looking, and start a list of names.

RICHARD BURGUET, B.A., M-Div., has been ordained in the Presbyterian Church in America for more than 30 years. He has served churches in South Carolina, Mississippi, Maryland, and Georgia. Richard is pastor of New Hope Presbyterian in Eustis and is co-author of Covenants Disciples Workbook. New Hope is at 19535 Eustis Airport Road and on the web at newhopepca.com.

He looked at himself and said, ‘Bring it!’

WRITER: RICHARD BURGUET, B.A., M-DIV.

Faithful servants never retire. You can retire from your career, but you will never retire from serving God. — Rick Warren

NOUR

CHEW ON THIS

NONEDIBLE FOOD ESSENTIAL TO HEALTHY LIVING

WRITER: MARYANN HOLDEN, CHHC AADP LPN

ALTHY

As a graduate of the Institute for Integrated Nutrition, one of my very favorite topics is primary food.

At the start of my workshops on that topic, I often ask: “So what do you think primary food is?” I get various answers, but the usual are carrots, greens, meat and other typical foods. But the correct answer is quite different and very enlightening.

ted Nutrition, one of . at I often ask: ?” I various d nlightening.

Food is more than what you find on your plate. Healthy relationships, regular physical activity, a fulfilling career and a spiritual practice can fill your soul and satisfy your hunger for life. When primary food is balanced and satiated, your life feeds you, making what you eat secondary.

ual ary food is balanced

Remember when, as a child, you were playing outside, having fun? Suddenly your mother announced dinner was ready, but you were not hungry at all. The passion of play took all your attention. Or think back to a time when you were passionately in love. Everything was exciting. Colors were vibrant. Intimacy was magical. Feelings of exhilaration sustained you. You forgot about food and were high on life.

Sometimes we are fed not by food but by the energy in our lives. Modern nutrition — carbs, proteins, fruits and vegetables — is really just one source of nourishment, which integrative nutrition considers secondary food; such foods nourish our bodies, but are not able to give us the joy, meaning or fulfillment that primary food provides.

We hunger for play, fun, touch, romance, intimacy, love, achievement, success, art, music, self-expression, leadership, excitement, adventure and spirituality. All of those elements are essential forms of nourishment, and the extent to which we are able to incorporate them determines how enjoyable and worthwhile our lives feel.

When we use secondary food as a way to alleviate or suppress our hunger for primary food, the body and mind suffer. Weight gain is just one of the consequences. Diet-related disorders such as heart disease, cancer, obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes are national epidemics, and one of the main reasons is because we are stuffing ourselves with secondary foods when we are really starving for primary food.

If you’re not getting the primary food you need, eating all the food in the world won’t satisfy your hunger.

WHEN IN DOUBT (OR OTHER EMOTIONS), HUG

So says neuroeconomist Paul Zak, also known as “Dr. Love.” Zak recommends at least eight hugs a day to be happier and enjoy better relationships.

• Hugs allow your body to produce ample amounts of the “love hormone” oxytocin, which is released in response to physical touch. The neuropeptide oxytocin, released by your pituitary gland, is a naturally occurring hormone in your body with incredibly powerful, health-giving properties.

• It is also a key reason why the simple act of hugging is such an incredible way to not only bond with others but also boost your physical and emotional health. One study found, for instance, that women had lower blood pressure following a brief episode of warm contact with their partner.

Thanks to

its oil,

rubbing the inside

of a banana peel on a mosquito bite (or other bug bite) or on poison ivy will help keep it from itching and getting inflamed. According to thebananapolice.com bananas are technically considered primary AND secondary food. Who knew? Go bananas!

“We need four hugs a day for survival. We need eight hugs a day for maintenance. We need 12 hugs a day for growth.”

— PAUL ZAK

MARYANN HOLDEN, CHHC, AADP, LPN Maryann

Holden has worked as a nurse for over 25 years in nursing homes and assisted-living facilities. Having dealt with many sick people, she decided to become a certified holistic health counselor. She graduated from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York City and is accredited by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners.

BALANC SPIRIT

A THEME FOR 2015: SLOW DOWN

WRITER: RICHARD BOSSHARDT, M.D., FACS

The new year is a time of reflection.

Many people use the milestone to map out a 12-month plan to achieve goals. Notice I did not say “resolutions.” That word has been so tainted by its association with failure the term “broken resolutions” has become a tired cliché.

I am going to suggest something very different. I suggest you set a theme for your year and, what’s more, I recommend a particular theme. The theme is: SLOW. Slowing down means going against the juggernaut of momentum in modern life to continually go faster.

We eat fast food, get our information via ever-faster networks on our cell phones and computers, are on the fast track at work, and many, if not most, of the advances in our day-to day lives are for the purpose of accomplishing tasks faster.

Look around and see where the continual push to live faster has gotten us. We’re overweight, over-stressed, over-committed,

and overwhelmed. What is worse is, those of us who are parents teach this faster way of life to our children.

The formal beginning of the modern Slow Movement began in 1986, when Carlo Petrini organized a protest against the opening of a McDonald’s restaurant in the Piazza di Spagna, Rome. Petrini recognized that something irreplaceable was being lost in the rush to do things faster.

The enjoyment of simple things — savoring a good meal; spending time with friends (face to face, not via social networking); shopping locally, where you know the persons you are buying from, instead of malls and big-box stores — is at the core of living more slowly.

This used to be the default way to live. Food was grown or procured locally, social life revolved around family and immediate friends, and the pace of life of was slow. I remember it vividly. My parents owned only one car, did not have a microwave oven, dishwasher or clothes dryer. We had one black-and-white television, one telephone and no air conditioning. My friends and I played outdoors. My mother cooked our meals from scratch and we rarely ate out.

Today, my wife and I are “empty nesters.” We each have a cell phone and laptop computer. Our home has “zone” central air conditioning, washer/dryer, microwave, convection oven and myriad appliances to speed up housekeeping. We have three televisions, Wi-Fi and high-speed

evenings find one or both of us on our laptops.

I have often felt my life has spiraled out of control.

What happened?

Technology happened. Progress happened. We are the apocryphal frog in the pan of water with technology heating the water, slowly at first, then faster and faster until it has reached a rolling boil and we sit there wondering why we are so uncomfortable. I am not a Luddite. Some aspects of technology are very positive and I would hate to give them up. I can Facetime my granddaughters from hundreds of miles away. I can Skype a cousin in France.

But other aspects of technology and progress are stealing our joy, probably shortening our lives, and destroying the only home we have, our planet.

The Slow Movement is an attempt to restore some sanity and balance to the way we live. It is not anti-progress, but rather seeks to make progress and technology

I think God’s going to come down and pull civilization over for speeding.

— Stephen Wright

Hare: If you go too fast you will miss the details; it’s the little things that makes life worthwhile.

Tortoise: Slow and steady doesn’t always win the race, just ask NASCAR drivers.

Tortoise and the Hare: The tortoise won the race, but the hare simply didn’t keep the same schedule.

our servant and not our master. It is taking back some of the good stuff of life before we lose it all.

Take food: People want cheap food and they want it fast, even if it means antibiotic and hormone-laden meat; pesticide and herbicide laced fruits and vegetables; and a veritable chemistry lab of preservatives, flavor enhancers, coloring agents and stabilizers. Slow food involves seeing food as a critical part of the fabric of our lives and one of life’s great pleasures. It means making an effort to buy locally and from providers using sustainable means to produce food, buying fresh products, and preparing them yourself. It also means taking time to savor a meal. As the name implies, slow food is the opposite of fast food in practically every possible way.

Or medicine. Many specialties, especially the primary care areas, such as family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics, are being burned out from the fast pace of modern medical practice and the need to see more and more patients

within the same allotted time. Many doctors are looking for an “out” and have formed “concierge” practices, in which a doctor contracts with a select group of patients, who pay up front for exclusive care. Physicians can take on fewer patients, practice slower, and, in turn, patients have access to the doctor of their choice without the delays seen in most practices. Concierge medicine has been called “slow medicine” by some.

Slow living is a way of taking back some control over your life, which, if you are like most, has been hijacked by the insatiable monster we call progress. Sometimes real progress means stepping back to reflect on where you are, how you got there, and where you are headed.

May your 2015 be a slow one.

SLOW DOWN: SOME TIPS

1. Turn off the television and computer and go read a book.

2. Don’t send the kids outside to play; take them outside and play with them.

3. Fix a meal from scratch, serve it at a table with real dishes, cutlery, etc., then clean up without using the dishwasher and get the whole family involved doing it.

4. Instead of driving everywhere, look for opportunities to walk or ride a bike.

5. Surprise a friend by asking him or her to hang out for an afternoon or evening of conversation over a cup of coffee (brewed by you, not Starbucks).

6. Look for ways to avoid taking work home at the end of the day. Use your imagination.

RICK BOSSHARDT, M.D., graduated from the University of Miami School of Medicine in 1978. He founded Bosshardt & Marzek Plastic Surgery Associates, Lake County’s first practice to provide full-time cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery services, in 1989.

LESSONS LEARNED FROM THE TORTOISE AND THE HARE.

When it comes to orthopaedic procedures as complex as total ankle replacements, reverse shoulder replacement and joint replacements of the hip and knee, why trust anyone besides a specialist?

Our board certified orthopaedic surgeons are specialists who are fellowship trained in their areas of expertise. They are known for their advanced skill, training and experience. It’s their names you will find scrawled on referral notes from physicians from across the state or featured on the front covers of a surgeon’s training manual. From conservative care for sports injuries to advanced ankle, shoulder, hip and knee replacements, trust the specialists trusted by other surgeons.

AGRICU

EAT HEALTHY, BUT DON’T SPEND MORE MONEY

Next to junk-food cravings and time constraints, money is one of the biggest reasons people don’t eat healthier.

Go to the grocery store and compare the prices of organic produce to nonorganic. It can be steep. The same goes for the difference between healthy cereals and cheap sugar-filled cereals. But you can eat healthy without increasing your monthly food budget.

Cut out fast-food and other restaurants. Fast-food restaurants might look cheap, but if you cooked at home and broke down the cost, that would be cheaper. Unless you’re cooking expensive cuts of steak or eating too much, preparing meals at home is cheaper. High-end restaurants waste even more of your monthly food budget on unhealthy options. You don’t have to stop eating out all the time, but cut back.

FRESH NONORGANIC IS STILL A GOOD ALTERNATIVE. If you can’t afford organic food, that doesn’t mean you should buy canned vegetables or no vegetables at all. Even frozen vegetables are a better alternative to freeze-dried meal packets and canned foods that are both full of salt and contain few nutrients. Fresh vegetables aren’t as expensive as you think. Organic food is ideal, but it’s not a requirement to eat healthy.

JUNK FOOD IS ALWAYS EXPENSIVE. The price for a box of cookies or a bag of chips may seem cheap, but if the alternative is not buying it at all, you’ll save money. Instead of having multiple junk-food snacks a day, have one or two snacks like a piece of fruit, vegetables sticks or a small handful of nuts.

SHOP LOCALLY. Farmers markets are available throughout Central Florida. They offer higherquality foods at a lower price. You can also get more variety in your diet because farmers can grow foods that aren’t able to travel across the country or the world like most supermarket produce. Some even offer organic foods at a much lower price.

START A GARDEN. Aside from the cost of seeds or plants, tools and fertilizer, starting your own garden will save you a lot of money. You can grow your own organic produce for a fraction of the cost. Start with easier-to-grow vegetables such as tomatoes, zucchini, cucumbers and green beans. Start small this year and try something new every year after that.

BEATING BUDGET BLUNDERS

1. PLAN YOUR MEALS and snacks for the week according to the established budget. By including on your grocery list only the meals you plan to cook that week, you will save money by buying only what you need and limiting frivolous purchases in the process.

2. DO IT YOURSELF RATHER THAN BUY IT. Make your own organic granola bars, kale chips, smoothies and juices to replace store-bought with more overhead.

3. BUY LOCAL. Find a farmers market near you through LocalHarvest. org or the USDA — get to know your local farmers, create a personal relationship and negotiate prices.

Be the last person to leave the farmers market. Farmers will likely cut prices at the end of the day to prevent returning unsold veggies to the farm.

TEACH HER TO BE RESPONSIBLE FIRST

WRITER: DAVE RAMSEY

Dear Dave,

My daughter is a freshman in college, but I didn’t save for her education. My parents said it was my job to pay for my college, and that’s what I’ve told her. She’s going to have about $12,000 in student loan debt after her first year, but how do I talk to her about not ending up with $50,000 in debt when she’s through?

—Paul

Dear Paul,

If you want her to pay for college, then, as her dad, you have to coach her on how she’s supposed to come up with the money and manage it properly. She’s already behind the 8-ball because it sounds like you didn’t teach her the correlation between work and money earlier. So, you’re going to have to get real busy, real fast unless you want her to be drowning in debt when she graduates.

I think you owe her a leg up at this point. That $12,000 doesn’t just magically appear in an 18-year-old’s hands. I’m perfectly OK with kids working through college and parents cracking the whip when it comes to acting responsibly. But if you expect them to pay for it, you first have to show them how to do that. Otherwise, they’re going to hit the default button and wind up $50,000 in debt when they graduate. That’s a really bad plan.

If you have some money, I think you should help her along while teaching her how to make money, save and budget. Then, maybe she’ll be prepared to pay for her last couple of years with some good, hard work.

—Dave

SOURCE: loansmag.com

DON’T STOP PAYING JUST YET

Dear Dave,

I’m a junior in college, and I live in a rental house. There’s no formal lease, and my landlord never asked for a deposit of any kind. Recently, I started receiving notices from Chase Mortgage saying my landlord is $7,500 behind in his mortgage. I’m worried about what will happen if they foreclose on him. Should I move out, stop paying rent or what? He’s told me not to worry, because he’s just behind on the payments and not in default.

—Chris

Dear Chris,

Well, the last part is not quite true. When you’re behind on payments you are, by definition, in default.

Still, I think you should stay right where you are for now, and keep paying your rent on time like normal. Keep the lines of communication open with your landlord, too. I’d also contact Chase, and tell them about your situation in this house. Ask them to keep you informed about what’s happening with the property, so that you’ll have time to formulate a plan and find a new place to live if the house goes into foreclosure.

Chances are they’ll give you at least 30 days to move out if a foreclosure occurs. You probably won’t have to pay anything to the bank afterward, so you may get to sit there rent-free even longer while they sort out everything. Considering you don’t have money wrapped up in a deposit or a lease hanging over your head, there’s really not a lot of risk for you here. Your landlord is still providing the home, and the truth is that foreclosures — if it comes to that — generally take a while to complete in Florida.

You might keep an eye out for other properties in the weeks ahead, but other than that, as a renter, you’re in pretty good shape under the circumstances.

—Dave

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW

THE FORCLOSURE IS AGAINST THE PROPERTY, NOT AGAINST YOU.

The foreclosure sounds as if the doors are going to be closed. No. It just means that the bank (or whomever is owed money) is going to take title (ownership) away from your landlord, but you have a PREXISTING RIGHT to live there. You have to pay rent, but you have to be provided a place to live.

CAN THE BANK OR NEW OWNER KICK ME OUT?

Under a new Federal Law, the new owner, whether it is the bank or whether someone buys the property at a foreclosure, has to give you 90-days notice if they want to give you the boot. If they give you the boot, they have to give you the deposit back unless you have damaged the property.

SOURCE: avvo.com/legal-guides/ugc/should-i-pay-rent-if-my-landlord-is-in-foreclosure-and-what-do-i-do

at daveramsey.com.

DAVE RAMSEY is a personal money management expert, a national radio personality, and best-selling author of The Total Money Makeover. Ramsey earned his Bachelor of Science in Finance and Real Estate from the University of Tennessee. A frequent speaker around the country at large-scale live events, he has a nationally syndicated talk show, The Dave Ramsey Show.

Follow

4 WAYS TO BOOST YOUR CREDIT SCORE RIGHT AWAY

1. Check your credit report.

2. Setup payment reminders.

3. Pay down your dept slowly.

4. Pay your bills on time.

FEDERAL LAW.

A collection agency doesn’t have the right to pull your credit report without a legally valid reason. The Fair Credit Reporting Act protects the sensitive financial information your credit history contains. The FCRA gives collectors only the right to review your credit history if they do so in connection with a debt you owe. The right to access your credit reports is known as “permissible purpose.” If you do not owe a debt to the collection agency, it does not have permissible purpose and cannot legally pull your credit reports.

WHY DEBT COLLECTORS CHECK YOUR CREDIT.

A collection agency may pull your credit history for a variety of reasons. If, for example, a debt collector does not have your current address to contact you about the debt, he may look to your credit report for that information. A collection agency might also review your credit history in order to determine whether you have assets or are employed. This information helps the company decide whether it’s worthwhile to file a lawsuit against you for payment.

CREDIT CHECKS AND YOUR FICO SCORES.

CREDIT CHECKS AND YOUR FICO SCORES

If you’ve pulled your free credit report only to discover a collection agency has been snooping around in your file, you aren’t alone.

Many consumers are horrified to discover that collection agencies can and do pull debtors’ credit records on a regular basis. Fortunately, federal law governs the circumstances under which debt collectors can peruse your credit reports.

When a company or individual pulls your credit records, the pull is either a “soft” pull or a “hard” pull. Soft pulls have no impact on your FICO scores. Credit checks you conduct yourself and those performed by employers, insurance companies and utility providers are examples of soft pulls. Hard pulls, such as those conducted by lenders, can cause your credit scores minor damage. You can expect to lose anywhere from five to 10 points each time a creditor conducts a hard pull, and collection agencies generally conduct hard pulls. Five or 10 points may not sound like much, but repeated hard pulls can do considerable damage to your FICO scores over time. Although an inquiry from a collection agency isn’t a positive, it doesn’t remain on record forever. Unlike negative account trade lines, which can remain on your credit report for up to seven years, the credit bureaus remove hard inquiries after two years. The FICO scoring system most lenders use to evaluate your creditworthiness, however, only takes hard inquiries into consideration for one year. After a year, a collection agency’s inquiry won’t harm your credit scores, even if the credit bureaus have yet to remove it from your credit report.

A Valuable Asset

When Lynette Barba took ownership of an Allstate Insurance agency in Mount Dora 19 years ago, it was a smart career move. Everyone, after all, needs insurance.

Of course, the key to her company’s longevity and success entails more than offering the products and services clients demand. Lynette also has to make clients feel good about doing business with her.

That’s where Lynette has thrived. She brings energy and enthusiasm to her job, and the best policy she provides is honesty. Thanks to her upbeat personality, kind demeanor and extensive knowledge of the industry, Lynette through the years has established meaningful relationships.

“I thoroughly enjoy being a smallbusiness owner in a small community,” says Lynette, who graduated from Stetson University in 1987 with a bachelor of business administration degree. “One of the things I love most about my job is that 80 percent of my clients live within a 20-mile radius, which promotes deep customer relationships. I also enjoy doing business with both the working class and retiree families.”

The goal of the company, Lynette says, is providing sound, honest advice to help clients protect their assets. She offers fullscale insurance products such as automobile insurance, homeowners insurance, life insurance and long-term care insurance, as well as numerous investment products.

While Lynette has adapted her company to meet the demands of the fast-paced information age, she still values the oldfashioned concept of face-to-face interaction.

“Insurance is complicated, and the advice we give is very technical,” she says. “Meeting with clients face to face allows

arba ce s a smart career move. needs insurance ey to her ess entails more than cts and services clients lso has to make clients feel business with her. nette has thrived. She enthusiasm to her olicy she Thanks to her kind demeanor wledge of the hrough the ed oy a smalla small from in 1987 with a ss e love most t my a 20-mile tomer ss with both the milies.” ompany, honest advice to help r assets. She offers fulloducts such as automobile wners insurance, life -term care insurance, as nvestment as ds of the he still values the oldof face-to-face interaction. mplicated, ery nts face to face allows

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information about the insuran oppor is I conduct annual insur each

me to delve deeper into the details and lets me feel comfortable that I’m doing what’s best for each individual client. I also realize that clients desire accurate and current information about the insurance industry, including new discount opportunities, which is why I conduct annual insurance reviews each year.”

And because she lov client worry about her retiring or mo

And because she dearly loves her job and community, prospective clients need not worry about her retiring or moving anytime soon.

“I’m invested in this county because I’ve lived here half my life,” she says. “I plan on being in business here for a long time. My clients don’t have to worry about being tossed from one insurance agent to the next.” Lynette is a native of Minnesota and a former figure skater with Disney on Ice.

Outside of her agency, she attends Zumba classes at Gold’s Gym in Mount Dora three times a week. She has a 24-year-old daughter, Ali, who after graduating from Florida State University as a business major, began working for an insurance agency in Orlando. She also has a 20-yearold son, Andrew, who is majoring in mechanical engineering at Florida State. Lynette’s office is at 1904 N. Donnelly St. in Mount Dora. For more information, call 352.383.2002.

“I’m invested in this lived here half my life,” she sa on in business here for clients don’t have to tossed from one insurance ag is a native of Minne skater with D Outside of her classes at Gold’s in M three times a week. She ha daughter, gra Florida a began for a Orlando. She als old son, Andrew, who is ma mechanical Fl is at 1904 N in Mount Dora. For more info 352.383.2002

JANUARY 8

Stroke Support Group

A social opportunity for stroke survivors to learn what local resources are available and partipate in group therapy. The group meets at 2:30p.m. inside the LRMC North Campus conference room. Information: 352.323.5658

JANUARY 12

Look Good Feel Better

Group meets the second Monday of each month 1:30–3:30p.m. at Florida Hospital Waterman in Tavares. Information: 352.252.3605

JANUARY 13

Better Breathers

An American Lung Association support group for those who suffer from lung diseases. Participants learn tips and techniques to manage their disease. 1–3p.m. National Training Center, 1935 Don Wickham Drive, Clermont. Free. Information: 352.241.7109

JANUARY 13

Mended Hearts Support Group

Mended Hearts offers hope to heart patients, their families and caregivers. Noon–1p.m. Florida Hospital Waterman, 100 Waterman Way, Tavares. Information: 352.253.3399

JANUARY 20

Remy Time

Come together for story time geared toward children and families impacted by autism or Asperger’s syndrome.

10:30a.m. East Lake County Library. 31340 County Road 437, Sorrento. Free. Information: 352.383.9980

JANUARY 21

Multiple Sclerosis Support Group

Share stories and reach out to others who are facing similar challenges with multiple sclerosis, a disease that attacks the central nervous system.

10a.m.–noon. National Training Center, 1935 Don Wickham Drive, Clermont. Free.

Information: 352.242.2350

I’ll take a look at

policies. I’ll help you make sure your

period before it starts, so now’s the time to get it. I can help. For more easy ways to prepare, call me first.

Auto insurance issued by Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Company, Northbrook, IL. Property insurance issued by Castle Key Insurance Company and Castle Key Indemnity Company, St. Petersburg, FL. The assets and obligations of the Castle Key companies are separate and distinct from those of any other company in

JANUARY 24

Health, Wellness and Fun Fair

Organized by New Beginnings, this health fair features medical vendors, short seminars on various topics and free health screenings. 10a.m.–2p.m inside First United Methodist Church of Clermont’s Wesley Center. Information: 352.404.6946

JANUARY 30

Taste of Wellness

Attendees have the opportunity to win many fun door prizes and visit with health and wellness providers. Enjoy great food, drinks and entertainment. All proceeds benefit World Wellness Education, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. 4–7p.m. at the Leesburg Community Center, 109 E. Dixie Ave. Information: 352.459.1655

JANUARY 31

Mount Dora Health and Fitness Expo

We’re here to help you invest

FEBRUARY 5-6

Heart-to-Heart Cardiovascular Symposium

Presented by Leesburg Regional Medical Center and The Villages Regional Hospital, this event is attended by hundreds of nurses and clinical professionals throughout Central Florida who care for cardiovascular patients. They learn about the most up-todate evidence-based practices. Mission Inn Resort and Club. Information: 352.323.5490

FEBRUARY 7

Spice It Up for Hospice Chili Cookoff

This event includes a chili tasting contest, raffle prizes and live entertainment by Todd Brown and the River Junction Band. Proceeds will benefit the Lane Purcell Hospice House and Cornerstone Hospice patient care. 11a.m.–2p.m. in downtown Bushnell. Information: cshospice.org

When you need investment services, you want a bank that acts as your partner, not your manager. As advisors with the Trust Department at First National Bank for more than 15 years, it’s our job to help enrich your life, not fulfill a quota or generate fees. Our seasoned professionals customize investments to fit your goals and personality –so you can invest your way with confidence.

When you want a bank that does more, come to one that cares more. First National Bank.

TRUST & INVESTMENT SERVICES

THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK

The people you know, the bank you trust.

ests, ations e

Wallace Fitness is hosting a fun, free family event to promote health and fitness awareness. Activities include fitness demonstrations, weight loss education, live entertainment, prizes, contests, food trucks and demonstrations by community health care providers. 10a.m.–3p.m. at Donnelly Park in downtown Mount Dora. Information: wallacefitness.com/expo

today and through lots of tomorrows.

Pete Baksh, Susie Pelfrey and John Pease

Your Investment Team

SHOWING THEIR SOLES

Institute of Cardiovascular Excellence recently held its annual ICE Walk. The goal of the event is to promote healthy hearts and help participants understand how walking benefits those with or without heart disease. In addition to participating in the walk, attendees were able to visit health and wellness vendors and enjoy food, raffles and prize giveaways.

PHOTOGRAPHER: RON VANDEVANDER

1. Chris Ramirez with Nikita, Jessica Whitehouse with Slinky, Melissa Clark with Isabella, Kenny Stewart with Kix and Heather Perry with Shimmer

2. Laura and Chuck Seevers with Miles and Deveraux

3. Tammy Brinkman with Lamont

4. Karen Kudia with Elvis

5. Dilma Blandon, Alexander Medina and Mary Moreno

6. Kim Panzer, Melanie Melvin, Kamachie “KC” Chinapen and Mike Stegall

7. Beth Swing with Henry Gilbert

8. Sonya Baker with LG

In an ongoing editorial series coming this February exclusively to Healthy Living, we take an in-depth look at Florida’s foster care and adoption programs. You will get to meet the local families who have opened up their homes and their hearts to our children in need.

DISHING UP SUPPORT

Talk about a recipe for healthy babies. The March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction was recently held at Mission Inn Resort and Club and featured live and silent auctions, live entertainment and cooking demonstrations from some of the area’s top chefs. Proceeds help prevent premature births, infant mortality and birth defects.

PHOTOGRAPHER: MATTHEW GAULIN

1. Nikolas Konstantos, Keith Mullins, Leslie Kirkland, Stephanie Leady and Danny Connolly

3. Tom and Janice Sewwinger with Ann Dupee and Carroll Dickerson

2. Jane and Dick Scott

4. Davis and Mandy Talmage

5. Sandy Peyaud, Tangie Fodea and Elizabeth Pentayah

6. Chef Brian Cook

STEP TOWARD A CURE

When it comesto breast cancer, Florida Hospital Waterman is puttint its foot down. The hotpital recently organized its popular 5K run/ walk at Wooton Park in Tavares. Those who participated in the event helped raise money to promote breast cancer awareness, diagnosis and treatment, including mammograms for women in need.

PHOTOGRAPHER: MATTHEW GAULIN

1. Jimmy Spears (Runner Up) and his family

2. Eric Bartos and Leslie Sarmiento

3. Mitchell Lafleur

4. J. Farrett, R. Reich, M. Smith and A. Schnitz

5. Roberto Manco and his son

6. Gary and Heather Hopcraft

7. Tricia Guido and Ricardo Rojas

8. Steve Bradmer (Winner)

Exclusively offering pulmonary rehab with an experienced respiratory therapist. Specializing in pulmonary and critical care.

• INTENSIVE AND ICU MANAGEMENT

• COPD • ASTHMA

• DISEASES OF THE LUNGS

• SLEEP DISORDERS

• NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

• MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED

DR. MARJERY LOPEZ Board-Certified in Internal and Pulmonary Medicine. Privileges at LRMC, The Villages Regional Hospital and Promise Hospital.

DR. JOSÉ DIAZ Board-Certified in Internal and Pulmonary Medicine. Privileges at LRMC, The Villages Regional Hospital and Promise Hospital.

MARIA BYRD, ARNP Certified in adult health, specializing in Pulmonary Medicine. Privileges at LRMC and Promise Hospital.

PILAR SMITH, ARNP Certified in adult health, specializing in Pulmonary Medicine. Privileges at Promise Hospital.

STEPS IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION

The first Harbor Hills Run/Walk for Charity was successful. Participants ran, walked, skipped and strolled through the beautiful course, which featured scenic hills and stunning lake views. Following the race, participants enjoyed live entertainment and an awards ceremony. Proceeds from the event benefited the Boys and Girls Club of Lake and Sumter Counties.

1.

Adam Rich, Lena Williams, Chris Carlyle, Heidi Ressler, Sean Rich, Ginger Ginestra, Jay Hurley, Peyton Ressler and Blake Ginestra

PHOTOGRAPHER: MELANIE MELVIN AND PROVIDED

Tonya Porter,

2. Lauren Kennedy, Hannah Williams and Meg Ireland

3. Ginger Ginestra and Amy Tucker

4. Rich and Lynn Roach

5. Shaunda and Jason Davis

6. Freddie Williams with Boys and Girls Club members and staff

7. Dominic Madonna

8. Rory and Kim Ireland

Run for Ruth House 5k

DATE/TIME: Saturday, February 7th, 2015

Race Time: 8:00 AM

LOCATION: North Lake Park, Umatilla 40730 Roger Giles Road Umatilla, FL 32784

PACKET PICK-UP: Friday, February 6th, 4-6 PM @ North Lake Park

Race day packet pick-up begins at 7:00 AM

For sponsorship contact Dondi Coté at: 352.630.4429 or dondicote0714@gmail.com

REGISTRATION:

*Active.com

Through January 10th: $20.00

After January 10th: $25.00

All runners receive a free race shirt! (Sizes guaranteed for registrations through January 10th, 2015)

Additional race shirts available on race day for $10.00

PRIZES:

Overall Top 3 and Age group Awards!

*http://www.active.com/umatilla-fl/running/races/the-second-annual-run-forruth-house-5k-2015

theruthhouse.weebly.com

Tired of just making a living?

Impressions

“When you do nothing but sit and watch television what good are you doing for yourself? If you remain idle as you grow older, you might as well be dead. I despise being inactive because it makes me feel worthless. I’ve always been active and always will be. That’s what keeps a person alive.”

— ELIZABETH CROMER

Aida is greater than cancer. With cancer running in her family, Aida knew the importance of regular screenings. later, with the help of the Florida Hospital Waterman Cancer Institute and some of the region’s most advanced cancer treatment including SAVI®, a breakthrough in radiation therapy, Aida is cancer free. To read more about Aida, her journey to survivorship and how she is greater than breast cancer, visit FHWaterman.com.

Aida Yaccarino Breast Cancer Survivor with her husband, Lou