Healthy Living July 2016

Meet si have und life tra includ M

Meet six people who have undergone major life transformations, including Leesburg native, Max Wettstein.

JUGGLING CHILDHOOD DISEASE

A positive attitude helps Ava Barnes, 7, stick a fork in diabetes and Celiac disease.

MIND OVER PLATTER

Through her company, TNT, Lori Esarey helps people battle obesity.

Infamous Last Words

“I’ m just a l ittle out of breath, it’ s nothing.”

In most cases of a heart attack, your body tells you to ask for help. Yet people dismiss the signs, with serious consequences. At The Heart Institute at Leesburg Regional Medical Center, we’re on a mission to get people to speak up by calling 911. Immediately. Because minutes saved can equal lives saved. And we think that sounds pretty good.

As an interventional and invasive cardiologist, Dr. Moises Fraifeld enjoys working alongside a team of physicians who share his goal of exceeding the expectations of patients and their families. That’s why he has worked at the practice since 1999.

“The teamwork and trust among our physicians is phenomenal,” says Dr. Fraifeld, who completed his fellowship training in interventional cardiology at the University of Maryland Medical Center. “We all have a great deal of respect for one another.”

Dr. Fraifeld treats both coronary artery disease and peripheral artery disease. “The best thing about my profession is seeing a patient’s health improve considerably and allowing them to enjoy a better quality of life.”

As one of the oldest and most experienced private cardiology practices in Central Florida, at Cardiovascular Associates of Lake County, we are dedicated to bringing innovation in cardiovascular care to our patients. Since 1992, we have been your partners for life.

YEARS OF SERVICE TO LAKE COUNTY & SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES

SPECIALTIES INCLUDE: Total Joint Replacement // Arthritis Evaluation // Non-Surgical Back Evaluation // Osteoporosis Evaluation // Physical Therapy Diagnostic Radiology // Sports Medicine // Shoulder Surgery // Foot & Ankle Surgery // Trauma & Fracture Management // Arthroscopic Surgery

J. Mandume Kerina, MD

Founder of TriCounty Orthopaedics.

Board Certified. Fellowship-Trained.

Advanced Joint Replacement Therapy

Isaac L. Mitchell, MD

Board Certified. Fellowship-Trained. Shoulder/Upper Extremity and Sports Medicine.

Claudia L. Thomas, MD

Board Certified. Fellowship-Trained. Orthopaedic Trauma and Spine, National Osteoporosis Foundation Member.

Cedric J. Tankson, MD

Board Certified. Fellowship-Trained. Foot and Ankle Specialist, Joint Replacement of the Ankle.

Alfred J. Cook, Jr., MD

Board Certified. Fellowship-Trained. Cartilage Rejuvenation, Shoulder Surgery, and Sports Medicine.

John T. Williams, Jr., MD

Board Certified. Fellowship-Trained. Advanced Total Joint Replacement Surgery, Chairman of Surgery at CFHA.

IN EVERY ISSUE

AT YOUR SERVICE

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

HEALTH MATTERS

HEALTHY INSPIRATION

MEDICAL MYSTERIES

CALENDAR

FINAL IMPRESSIONS

NTENTS

July 2016

FEATURING

20 // TRANSFO

TRANSFORMATIONS

It’s never too late life. We’re showc transformations ever. One woma director. Anothe

WRITERS: JAMES

JAMES COMBS / THERESA CAMPBELL

32 // RISING ABOVE

With that sweet, innocent smile and cheerful, outgoing personality, few realize 7-year-old Ava Barnes battles Type 1 diabetes and Celiac disease. Monitoring her blood-sugar levels and watching what she eats are enormous responsibilities for a girl her age, but Ava doesn’t allow the disease to dampen her enthusiasm for life.

WRITER: JAMES COMBS

HEALTHYBODY

LET’S MAKE A DILL

38 Reel in nutrition by preparing this creamy dill salmon recipe.

GET A LEG UP

40 There are things you can do to avoid varicose and spider veins.

TO BEAUTIFY…OR NOT TO BEAUTIFY

42 Cosmetic and skin-care products may lead to chemical exposure.

HEALTHYMIND

SWEET DREAMS

46 Restful sleep is vital to health and well-being.

STRESS BUSTER

48 Mindfulness can help keep your worries away.

HEALTHY

SPIRIT

JUGGLING ACT

52 Strike a healthy balance between work and play.

SMILE IN THE MIRROR

54 Enhance self-esteem by embracing your strengths and weaknesses.

ges in your rgone more than d pantr y es we’re .

It’s never too late to make positive, meaningful changes in your life. We’re showcasing several people who have undergone transformations and, because of it, are enjoying life more than ever. One woman went from a career in fashion to food pantry director. Another woman became a professional bodybuilder at age 36. These are just two of the inspirational stories we’re highlighting this month.

HEALTHYFINANCE

DAVE SAYS

60 Financial expert Dave Ramsey offers commonsense financial strategies.

RIGHT ON THE MONEY

62 Common pitfalls of high amounts of debt.

ON THE COVER:

MODEL: MAX WETTSTEIN

PHOTOGRAPHER: FRANZ KRACHTUS OF HOLLYWOOD PIXELS

PHOTOSHOP: JOSH CLARK

DIGITIZE YOUR LIFE.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Order a subscription of your favorite magazine to be delivered directly to your home for just $72. Each subscription includes 12 consecutive issues of Lake & Sumter Style, Village Style or Healthy Living. Choose 2 or more magazines for $85 per year. To order, call 352.787.4112 or mail us at: Subscriptions at Akers Media, P.O. Box 490088, Leesburg, FL 34749.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS: If you are a seasonal resident or have moved, send your address change request to general@ akersmediagroup.com or mail us at: Subscriptions at Akers Media, P.O. Box 490088, Leesburg, FL 34749.

BACK ISSUES: Order a single issue by mail for $7, or 2 or more single issues for $9. To pick up a back issue from our office, please call 24 hours in advance.

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

EDITORIAL // DESIGN // PHOTOGRAPHY

JAMES COMBS staff writer james@akersmediagroup.com

LEIGH NEELY managing editor leigh@akersmediagroup.com

MICHELLE CLARK staff writer michelle@akersmediagroup.com

THERESA CAMPBELL staff writer theresa@akersmediagroup.com

DEBBI KIDDY staff writer debbie@akersmediagroup.com

JOE DELEON creative director joe@akersmediagroup.com

STEVEN J. CODRARO senior art director steve@akersmediagroup.com

JOSH CLARK senior designer josh@akersmediagroup.com

MICHAEL GAULIN production director michael@akersmediagroup.com

FRED LOPEZ chief photographer fred@akersmediagroup.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS//PHOTOGRAPHERS

JAIMIE ALONSO B.E. CONRAD FRED HILTON

LIZA WILLIAMS

You know the feeling—the familiar pleasure of sliding into the worn denim of a favorite pair of jeans. These jeans look great with your husband’s T-shirt, and they look great with pearls. You know the jeans—they are the old friend in your closet that never let you down and can make you feel sexy when you need it the most.

More than likely, these jeans have frays and even a few patches. But that’s why you love them. Do we feel the same way about our bodies? Is our skin something we can feel comfortable in?

Can we feel good in our skin despite its imperfections?

I believe we can, but how? First, we take an honest look at ourselves. Sure there are imperfections and flaws. And yes, some of them are permanent, but more often than not, many can be improved or eliminated.

KIM BADEN-KRISTENSEN FRANZ KRACHTUS

NIKO BERRY

PHOENIX GRIFFEN DAVE RAMSEY

SALES // MARKETING

TIM MCRAE vice president of sales tim@akersmediagroup.com

HEIDI RESSLER account representative heidi@akersmediagroup.com

DAVID COTE director of marketing david@akersmediagroup.com

That’s precisely why this month’s issue is themed “Look Good, Feel Good.” In a society where beauty presents prestige and power, leading a healthier lifestyle and enhancing your image will boost how you feel about yourself on the inside. And when you feel good on the inside, your confidence radiates outward, attracting others to you.

MIKE STEGALL senior account representative mike@akersmediagroup.com

LYNNE KELLEY account representative lynne@akersmediagroup.com

MELANIE MELVIN director of client services melanie@akerscreative.com

ADMINISTRATION

DEB MATLOCK office manager deb@akersmediagroup.com

AUBREY AKERS advertising coordinator aubrey@akersmediagroup.com

SHAENA CHASTAIN receptionist shaena@akersmediagroup.com

DISTRIBUTION

SCOTT HEGG distribution manager scott.hegg@akersmediagroup.com

Perhaps no one embodies this more than Leesburg native Max Wettstein, who graces our cover for the second time. He is a stunning example of someone who cultivated his God-given gifts. Max was introduced to a healthy lifestyle at a very young age by his father. He embraced the belief that your body is a temple, and fitness became a way of life for him. Today, at the age of 46, Max has enjoyed a lifelong career as a fitness model and was featured on the covers of many prominent health and fitness magazines.

I think you’ll also enjoy the stories of those who found fulfillment in ways that didn’t involve a fitness regimen. These people discovered that sometimes it takes a complete life transformation to feel great on the inside, which radiates happiness on the outside.

If we make an effort to improve our lives, then we can feel good knowing we’ve done all we can do with what God gave us. Much like we appreciate that triedand-true pair of jeans, it’s important that we feel good in our own genes.

Until next month, Kendra Akers Aker

Comments or questions for our publisher? Our goal is to provide you with the best quality publication, so your feedback is vital.

MAKING YOUR VEGGIES SIZZLE

July is National Grilling Month, but Lake County’s warm temperatures mean every day is ideal for a backyard barbecue. Rather than throw high-fat meats on the grill, consider grilling vegetables such as tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant.

HERE ARE A FEW TIPS FOR GRILLING VEGETABLES

• Before putting vegetables on the grill, toss them with a light coat of olive oil so the heat doesn’t dry them out.

• Sear veggies over high heat, then move to a cooler part of grill, or you risk charring the outside.

• Use a skewer or grill basket for smaller vegetables such

as cherry tomatoes. This keeps them from falling through the grate.

Source: www.eatingwell.com/healthy_cooking/healthy_cooking_101_basics_techniques/5_ tips_for_how_to_cook_grilled_vegetables?page=2

FUN FACT

Ample opportunities for outdoor exercise, the opening of more fitness gyms, and an increasing number of health stores have paid big dividends.

Lake County was recently ranked as the 14th-healthiest county in Florida, according to a 2016 nationwide survey conducted by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute. For comparison, Lake was ranked as Florida’s 19th healthiest county in 2015.

Matters This N’ That

HAIL TO THE CHIEF

Anita Young is now chief operating officer of Florida Hospital Waterman. She came to the hospital in 1988 and became president of Florida Hospital Waterman Foundation in 1996. She raised $3.1 million to help build Florida Hospital Waterman Cancer Institute and is raising $5 million to build Florida Hospital Waterman Heart Center.

“Anita’s talent in relationship building and her mission-driven focus make her an exceptional asset to our team,” says David Ottati, president and chief executive officer of the hospital. “She has made a tremendous impact on our hospital and the community over the years. and we look forward to the skill and dedication she will contribute in the future.”

DID YOU KNOW?

The Summer Olympics in Rio are next month?

Clermont ‘s own Justin Gatlin is a track and field star who won a gold medal in the 100-meter dash in the 2004 Summer Olympic Games in Athens.

In 2012, he took home the bronze in the same event during the games in London, finishing behind Jamaica’s Usain Bolt and Yohan Blake.

TRIVIA TIME

What year did South Lake Hospital open? Please make an educated guess before peeking at the answer below.

THIS ‘WORKS’ FOR ME

Central Florida Health Alliance was named to the Becker’s Healthcare list of “150 Great Places to Work in Healthcare.” The list is a compilation of hospitals, health systems, physician groups, and other healthcare organizations that provide excellent work environments and outstanding benefits to employees.

The company offers health and wellness benefits to employees, as well as tobacco cessation courses, nicotine replacement programs, and a reduced rates at its onsite fitness center in Leesburg. Employees may also receive a performance improvement incentive bonus for reaching quality and patient satisfaction goals.

“We are honored to be listed for the second year in a row among the ‘150 Great Places to Work in Healthcare,’” says Amie Richason, vice president of human resources at Central Florida Health Alliance. “Our employees are our most valuable resource, and their health, happiness, and success is vitally important in their work lives as they provide care for the people of Lake, Sumter, and Marion counties.”

MIND OVER PLATTER

Lori Esarey knows firsthand what it is like to battle disease. As a registered nurse, she worked alongside patients suffering from acute and chronic illnesses. Plus, her family had a history of diabetes, heart problems, and other ailments.

When Lori was pregnant, she struggled with high blood pressure and gestational diabetes.

“I took medication, but it wasn’t until I changed my eating habits that I noticed positive results,” she says. “I realized that fueling my body with healthy food is extremely important in achieving optimal health.”

If nutrition helped her overcome disease, Lori realized it could help prevent disease in others. As a result, she left nursing and in 2007 opened Total Nutrition and Therapeutics (TNT), a nutritional and health company in Lady Lake that

helps clients shed unwanted pounds and adopt healthy lifestyles.

“As a nurse, I was treating the sickest of the sick and realized that pills were only masking symptoms,” says Lori, who is board-certified by the American Board of Anti-Aging and Health Practitioners. “I was no longer interested in working in that model of medicine. I wanted to be in a model of medicine where I could prevent disease and save lives.”

To say Lori is passionate about her career is an understatement. Through one-on-one nutritional counseling and education, Lori’s clients achieve

increased self-esteem, improved energy levels, and a more positive outlook on life.

“There are days that I cry with happiness. Some of the clients who come to me cannot take showers or cannot walk without using a cane. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing them take their lives back and realize they can remain healthy and feel good about themselves. I’ve seen marriages restored, I’ve seen health restored, and I’ve seen physical function restored.”

Her enthusiasm extends well beyond the office. She takes clients shopping at the grocery store, teaches them how to plan meals in

advance, and even shows them how to cook using healthy ingredients.

Convincing people to change their lifestyles and habits can sometimes prove difficult. But for Lori, seeing people make successful transformations far outweighs the challenges of the job.

“It’s a very emotional job, and my clients teach me just as many lessons as I teach them. Many of my female clients are the nutritional gatekeepers in their homes, so they pass on what they learn to their husbands and children. There’s no greater joy than seeing people achieve things they never thought were possible.”

WRITER: JAMES COMBS

PHOTO: FRED LOPEZ

Medical Mysteries

LET US ALL JOIN FOR A MOMENT OF SILENT PRA…AH-CHOO!

Many of us have been in this awkward situation.

You have to sneeze, and it’s not going to be one of those polite dainty types of sneezes. You’re ready for a monster sneeze—the rip-roaring kind that will rattle the windows, awaken sleeping babies, and terrify cats.

The problem is you’re in one of those situations that demands total quiet. Maybe you’re at a funeral or at a wedding and the “I Do’s” are about to start. Or you’re in church during a silent prayer.

What to do? One choice is to let that huge sneeze fly and become a social pariah for the rest of your life. The other option is to attempt to stifle the sneeze. You’re afraid, though, that your head will balloon up to double its

normal size and your eyes will bug out four inches like in a Looney Tunes cartoon.

Sorry to disappoint you Daffy Duck fans but nothing that dramatic will happen. Holding in a sneeze, however, can create problems.

“Occasionally, people will cause some damage to their eardrums or their sinuses if they stifle a very violent sneeze,” says Dr. Rachael Szekely, an immunologist in the Department of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine at Cleveland Clinic.

“Your nose connects to your Eustachian tube, which connects to your middle-ear and so, you could also push things through the Eustachian tube and back into the middle ear—mucus that’s infected and you can get middle ear infections because of that,” Dr. Szekely added.

A whopper sneeze can blast air out of your nose at speeds between 100 and 500 miles per hour, depending on which expert you believe. That has the potential to cause some major problems.

“I’ve seen patients with a ruptured eardrum or pulled back muscle and you hear about cracked ribs,” says Dr. Michael Benninger an eye, ear and nose specialist and chairman of the Head and Neck Institute at Cleveland Clinic.

Dr. Alan Wild, a head and neck surgeon at Saint Louis School of Medicine School of Medicine, says that suppressing a sneeze also has the potential to cause an injury to the diaphragm, break a blood vessel in your eye or weaken a blood vessel in your brain.

Injuries of this type, Dr.

Wild says, “are flukes or are related to some underlying anatomical oddity.” Still, he says, “I wouldn’t recommend suppressing a sneeze by any method.”

So sneeze away to your heart’s content. You’ll get another chance to pray silently.

Sources:

“You Asked: Is It Bad to Hold in a Sneeze?” by Markham Held, Time Magazine, July 29, 2015, http://time.com/3975363/sneezing/

“Can holding in a sneeze cause hearing damage?” UAMS Audiology Clinic, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences http://uamshealth. com/healthlibrary2/medicalmyths/holdinginasneeze/ “Is It Safe to Hold in a Sneeze?” by Corey Binns, livescience.com, August 19, 2010, http://www.livescience.com/32776-is-it-safe-tohold-in-a-sneeze.html

“Dangers If You Try to Hold Your Sneeze, by Dr. Sapna Parikh and ABC7NY Eyewitness News, WABC-TV, May 12, 2014, http://abc7ny.com/health/ dangers-if-you-try-to-hold-your-sneeze/55388/ “Don’t Stifle That Sneeze! You Could Get Hurt,” by Lungs, Breathing & Allergy Team, Cleveland Clinic, April 23, 2014, https://health.clevelandclinic. org/2014/04/dont-stifle-that-sneeze-you-couldget-hurt/

WRITER: FRED HILTON

FEEL COMFORTABLE IN YOUR OWN SKIN

This is a common reality for many people. Throughout the course of a day, they may play 18 holes of golf, walk or jog three miles, and conclude their day with an evening of dancing. In short, they are active and feel young.

Then they look at their dry, flaky skin and see visible lines and wrinkles. That makes them feel old. Inevitably, they dream about looking as young as they feel.

Alani Medical Spa makes that dream become reality. Since 2007, the company has successfully treated all the skin-care needs of their clients, thus enhancing personal appearance, self-esteem, and overall health.

Not only do clients indulge in every pampering delight of an ordinary spa; they also receive advanced skin-care treatments of a medical spa such as laser procedures, Botox, and derma fillers.

Most importantly, though, is the fact that all cosmetic treatments are overseen and administered by experienced, skilled physicians. Clients can rest assured they receive

cosmetic treatments in a safe, professional manner.

Always staying abreast of the most cutting-edge skin-care treatments, Alani recently began utilizing the SilkPeel Body system. Thanks to this comprehensive treatment, clients can enjoy revitalized, healthy glowing skin not only on their faces but their entire body, as well.

SilkPeel is a noninvasive treatment that exfoliates the skin while delivering a topical solution that targets unique skin issues such as age spots, sun damage, acne, stretch marks, wrinkles, and fine lines. Four treatment solutions can be used: Lumixyl, a skin brightener; a Clarifying formula to treat acne; a Hydration solution to treat dry skin; and Vitamin C for skin detoxification.

“Because we live in Florida, we’re always wearing shorts and tank tops and as a result get skin damage on other parts of our bodies,” said Client Care Coordinator Jessica Folgore. The SilkPeel Body system is an excellent way to hydrate and brighten skin. And treatments are completed with no down time so it’s excellent for people on the go. It will benefit both those with skin conditions and those looking to maintain healthy skin.”

Another treatment offered at Alani is Radiesse, an FDA-approved injectable dermal filler that treats facial wrinkles and folds.

Through this technology, calciumbased microspheres are injected to stimulate the production of the skin’s collage production.

Alani Medical Spa clients enjoy the best of both worlds: the latest, most comprehensive treatments combined with personalized, friendly service.

“Our philosophy is to go for results rather than sales,” said co-owner and operations director Halah Ismail. “We also tailor each treatment to a client’s individual needs rather than implementing a one-size-fits-all solution. We are always there for clients before, during, and after their treatments, and that’s why we’ve become friends with so many of them. In fact, many call us just to talk about what’s going on in their lives.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION

ALANI MEDICAL SPA

13838 U.S. Hwy. 441/27

Lady Lake, FL 32159 352. 350.1210

www.alani.com

Services offered at Alani Medical Spa include:

• Laser Treatment (vein treatment, sun damage, pigmentation correction, skin tightment, hair removal, Profractional).

• Vi Peel. Helps treat aging and sun-damaged skin.

• SilkPeel. Treats hyperpigmentation, acne, rosacea and dry, irritated skin by promoting new cell growth.

• Botox

• Dermal Fillers

• Laser Peels

• Facials

“We are always there for clients before, during, and after their treatments, and that’s why we’ve become friends with so many of them.”

—HALAH ISMAIL

In the following pages, you’ll find several Lake County residents who have discovered the secret to creating their best self.

Simply put, they were brave enough to undergo major life transformations and subsequently accomplished feats they once thought impossible—bodybuilding, fitness modeling, losing massive amounts of weight, and more.

As a result, they’ve transformed from the person they used to be into a happier, healthier, and more fulfilled person. They’ve achieved a healthy level of self-awareness and growth that will be immense help as they go forward in life.

Who knows? Reading their inspirational stories may propel you from living a good life to living a spectacular one.

LIFE

TRANSFORMATIONS

STORY: JAMES COMBS AND THERESA CAMPBELL PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

A PICTURE-PERFECT BODY

STORY: JAMES COMBS PHOTO: FRANZ KRACHTUS

Leesburg native Max Wettstein, 46, is one of the country’s most popular fitness models.

In fact, he graced the cover of Men’s Health 10 times and was prominently featured on the covers of Men’s Fitness and Maximum Fitness. He also appeared in countless print advertisements showcasing men’s clothing and men’s performance apparel.

As a fitness model, he must stay in tip-top shape at all times. After all, that next photo shoot may be right around the corner.

“When you’re a fitness model, you have no choice but to stay in shape,” says Max, who now lives in San Diego. “You never have much warning before a photo shoot, so it’s an excellent way of being held accountable.”

Health and fitness were instilled in Max at an early age. His mom was vice president of a chain of health spas, while his father owned the now defunct Leesburg Health Studio.

Although his parents were divorced, he spent many summers in Lake County with his father, a popular teacher and coach at both Leesburg High School and Tavares High School.

“My dad would pick me up at the airport and we’d go straight to the gym. He even bought me my first set of weights when I was in eighth grade. I was always an athlete. I participated in football, wrestling, and track.”

While serving as a pilot in the U.S. Navy, he began modeling for Road Runner Sports, the country’s largest running apparel store. His career took off from there. He later appeared in ads and infomercials for companies such as QOR, which manufactures men’s performance apparel, and Sports Authority, one of the nation’s largest sporting goods chains.

Today, Max successfully juggles being a fitness professional and working as a pilot for JetBlue Airways. He often finds himself

working out in fitnessfriendly hotel chains.

“I cannot stick to any one routine because my flight schedule is all over the place. But when I’m home, I engage in full-functional fitness routines and do deadlifts, military presses, squats, pushups, and pull-ups. I also surf and play beach volleyball.”

There’s one question that men constantly ask Max: How does he maintain those six-pack abs at his age?

“I tell them they have to keep their body leaner and alter their body composition. I also preach the value of super high-intensity workouts because you continue burning calories for hours,” he says. “It’s also very important to successfully deal with stress because your body releases hormones that store fat.”

How to Reach Max: Insta: @maxwettstein Twitter: @max_wettstein MaxWettsteinFitness.com

“WHEN YOU’RE A FITNESS MODEL, YOU HAVE NO CHOICE BUT TO STAY IN SHAPE.”

WALKING A THIN LINE

STORY: JAMES COMBS

Adriene Tolliver, 36, is living large these days—and it’s all because she made the decision to downsize.

Since committing to a lifestyle change Sept. 7, 2013, she has lost more than 160 pounds.

That’s quite a feat, especially considering she used to become winded walking through a mall and shunned going to the beach because

she was ashamed of her body. Today, she frequents a gym and eats wholesome, nutritious meals. She also completed a 5K run and is preparing to compete in a 10K run next February.

“I made a decision to become healthy and as a result, I’m loving life,” says Adriene, a 1998 graduate of Leesburg High School. “I look at life in an entirely different way. Before, it was hard for me to love life because I was so

limited in what I could do.”

Adriene’s life transformation came following an uncomfortable visit to her doctor. Because her cholesterol and triglyceride levels were high, her doctor wanted to prescribe medication.

“My doctor told me I probably had about 10 years to live at the rate I was going. I fell apart. I didn’t want to be on pills, so my doctor gave me 90 days to make a life transformation or else

she was going to put me on medication.”

Since other diet plans had previously failed, Adriene strongly considered gastric bypass surgery. However, she instead opted to try Beachbody, a company that sells at-home workout videos and programs.

She saw instant results with a once-a-day meal replacement shake.

“That first week I lost seven pounds even though I still drank sodas and did not exercise because I was so big I thought I’d injure myself. I was amazed with the results.”

When Adriene had a follow-up visit with her doctor 90 days later, she had lost 28 pounds, and her cholesterol level had dropped 100 points.

“My doctor was ecstatic and couldn’t believe how much progress I made in that amount of time.”

Adriene has since faithfully followed other Beachbody exercise and diet programs.

“Healthy living is my main focus in life,” she says. “Each day, I strive to be healthy from the inside out.”

“HEALTHY LIVING IS MY MAIN FOCUS IN LIFE. EACH DAY, I STRIVE TO BE HEALTHY FROM THE INSIDE OUT.”

A LEAP OF FAITH

The simple life, RV-style

STORY: THERESA CAMPBELL

Leesburg natives

Ricky and Krista

Fay made a drastic transformation when they paid off bills, sold everything they owned, and decided to hit the road for a year-long (or longer) journey across the United States with their six children in a 300-square-foot recreational vehicle.

They have no regrets.

“We are so glad we took

that leap of faith and decided to go on this adventure,” says Krista, reflecting on their voyage that began mid-February. “Of course we were nervous and a bit fearful of all the unknowns that lay ahead, but it has sure been worth it. We have learned that sometimes the biggest risks in life can turn out to be have the biggest rewards.”

Their children, ages 10 to 1,

are being homeschooled on the road, and among their favorite moments: Alison and Lyla loved running up and down a giant sand hill in front of the entrance to Arches National Park in Utah; Kaleb treasured mining for gold in rivers; Keenan was tickled to see snow in Colorado; Kanyon and Misha were all smiles playing in the sand and water on the California beaches.

Krista is blogging about her family at www.simplelifefullhearts.com.

“We never expected that our family story would encourage and inspire families not just all over America but all over the world,” she says. “Families everywhere are simplifying their lives and reconnecting again. They have found that if we can do it, being a family of eight, then surely they can do it, too.”

“WE ARE SO GLAD WE TOOK THAT LEAP OF FAITH AND DECIDED TO GO ON THIS ADVENTURE.”

PUMPED ABOUT BODYBUILDING

STORY: JAMES COMBS COM

Bernice Prek has a look of confidence as she walks onto stage. The bikini she’s wearing barely covers her tanned, golden-oak skin, rock-hard abs, and muscular biceps.

She is a female bodybuilder with perfectly sculpted anatomy. And she’s the picture of what female fitness should look like— beautiful, toned, and seemingly always smiling.

A native of Puerto Rico who moved to the U.S. in 2002, Bernice is living proof that athletes don’t have to be in their late teens or early 20s to participate in a new sport.

Although she spent much of her career as a certified personal trainer, it wasn’t until she was 36 that she decided to undergo a life transformation and become a bodybuilder. This happened on a whim in February 2015 when she accompanied Mia Finnegan, the 1995 Fitness Olympia champion, to a bodybuilding competition in Tampa.

“I instantly fell in love with the sport,” says Bernice, a resident of Ocala. “When I was at the competition, I was able to meet many of the female competitors backstage. Seeing how good they looked in their bikinis made me realize that I could also look that good.”

Bernice made her bodybuilding debut in October 2015. Competing in the NPC Ocala Cup Classic, she muscled her way to first-place finishes in three categories: Masters Bikini, Open Class B Bikini, and Novice Bikini.

“I was very surprised that I did so well at my first competition,” she says. “I went there with the mindset of showing my body and letting people see all the hard work I put in 12 weeks leading up to the competition. I practiced posing every single day.”

One month later, Bernice competed in the Amanda Marinelli Classic in West Palm Beach. She won third place in her open bikini class, which qualified her to compete in the NPC Team Universe competition in July. A first- or second-place finish in this event would allow her to earn a pro card and compete in International Federation of Body Building and Fitness (IFBB) competitions.

“In IFBB events I can actually start winning money,” she says. Prepping for bodybuilding competitions requires laserlike focus. While Bernice tries to keep a nice physique at all times, she kicks her routine into overdrive 12 weeks before a competition by spending countless hours in the gym and following a strict diet regimen. Carbohydrate depletion marks the final week of training and helps eliminate fat surrounding muscles. That’s also the same week for the dehydration process, which helps her lose several pounds of water weight.

“With each show, I come up with a better physique and package to showcase to judges. Undergoing competition prep makes you a more committed and stronger person. You grow in so many ways.”

“UNDERGOING COMPETITION PREP MAKESYOUA

FASHIONING A NEW DIRECTION

Food pantry director reflects on fashion career

STORY: THERESA CAMPBELL

Irene O’Malley, executive director of Lake Cares Food Pantry, relishes working with volunteers to provide food for 750 families a month, and she believes most people would be surprised to learn she’s a former fashion designer/merchandiser who traveled the world.

“Every now and then I still see women wearing clothes I designed,” says Irene. “My last company was with Pierre Ellis men’s underwear, and I had to select models based on certain attributes.”

Fashion was her life from 1975 to 2002. She went to New York City at 18 to study at the Fashion Institute of Technology, and her career involved production, design, and merchandising of ladies, men, and children’s apparel for specialty boutiques and major stores, including J.C. Penney, Sears, QVC, and Home Shopping Network.

Before doing that, Irene served as a “fit model.”

“I would have to try on the clothes to make sure that they

fit properly because the proportion of my body was considered the standard size of an average woman,” she says. “The first Calvin Klein jeans were actually created after my fit. They had dress forms all through the factory that didn’t have a size on it—the forms just said ‘Irene.’”

After retiring from the fashion industry, she became a virtual instructor for major corporations teaching customer service. “I called it the three-foot commute,” she says of working from home.

However, Irene wanted to do more. She began volunteering with Lake Cares Food Pantry in 2009 and rose to the top.

“My absolute favorite thing is distribution day when people come in and thank us for being here,” she says.

Irene is proud that Lake Cares is providing take-home meals to thousands of children during their summer break. “This year we’re taking it a little bit further. We’ll be supplying some new school clothes.”

“MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITE THING IS DISTRIBUTION DAY WHEN PEOPLE COME IN AND THANK US FOR BEING HERE.”

MUSCLING IN ON GREATNESS

STORY: JAMES COMBS

Coming out of the black tank top are muscular arms that would make Arnold Schwarzenegger proud. Hidden beneath the tank top are fine-tuned, chiseled abs sure to make ladies swoon.

The arms, abs, and body belong to Chaz Williams, a 2003 South Lake High School graduate and Clermont resident who is making waves in the world of men’s physique competitions.

A dedicated gymgoer and healthy eater, Chaz has been riding an impressive winning streak as of late. He was the overall winner at the 2016 NPC Europa Games Men’s Physique competition, and in late 2015, he earned the prestigious title of Mr. Florida at the NPC Florida State Championships.

In physique competitions, contestants step on stage in front of a group of judges and are scored on stage presence, posing, conditioning, and body symmetry.

“Winning at these

competitions means a lot to me because of all the hard work and effort I put into them,” says Chaz, 31. “The Europa show was extremely competitive and is the largest physique competition in Florida.”

Chaz has been an athlete his entire life and played varsity baseball at South Lake High School. His competitiveness rose again in 2012, prompting his decision to undergo a life transformation and become a physique competitor. At the time, he was operating a smoothie store at The Life Center in Clermont.

“I wanted to compete in a sport that would force me to push my body to the extreme. I trained myself to prepare for my first show.”

Since that time, he has landed nine firstplace finishes in elite shows and is well on his way to competing professionally.

“I live the lifestyle of pro athlete,” he says.

“Since becoming a competitor, I feel so much better about myself. It has also made

me more dedicated to life outside the gym, including family, friends, marriage, and diet.”

Participating in physique competitions also helped him launch a lucrative business. Chaz currently trains more than 900 clients as far away as Australia by writing detailed exercise and nutrition plans for them on his website, trainwithchaz.com. He also provides one-onone training at local gyms.

“I’m more of a

health coach than a personal trainer,” says Chaz, a certified trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine.

“It’s amazing to see the transformation my clients go through. At first, they tell me they would never enter a show. But once they become leaner and more muscular, their self-confidence improves and they end up doing a show. Amazingly, some of my clients who get up there on stage are in their 50s.”

“I WANTED TO COMPETE IN A SPORT THAT WOULD FORCE ME TO PUSH MY BODY TO THE EXTREME.”

In

FAITH ACTION

Answering the Call to Care for Local Children

Many people in our community live their lives based on a deeply felt faith—“the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). Such faith allows people to see possibilities where others perceive only problems, to believe that blessings can be born of even the most trying times. It gives the confident assurance that all things serve a higher purpose, both here and hereafter. And it allows ordinary people to do extraordinary things.

For hundreds of children in Lake County, their very futures depend on the faith of others. These children have suffered trauma, abuse, and neglect. They need safe foster and adoptive homes where they can be shown a loving way of life they have not seen, but have long hoped for. The greatest need is for people to step out in faith for children ages 9 to 15, the critically formative years when we build our foundation for life.

What action does my faith require? That is the key question that all faithful people must ask themselves, because as the Bible tells us, “faith without works is dead” (James 2:20). For those with sincere religious beliefs, one of the greatest opportunities to put their faith in action is to provide a home for a child who has suffered. As one local pastor put it, “foster parenting and adoption are acts of God’s love to those who have not been loved.”

Those of us who are a part of the faith community must understand the Biblical mandate to care for others, especially children who fi nd themselves in distress. Our faith compels us to love and nurture those who have nothing to give in return.

This mandate is not defi ned by age or life situation, and it includes children who may be older or may seem to be more challenging. These young people need to know that their lives have meaning and purpose. What greater reward could there be than knowing that you helped restore hope in a child who has lost all faith in the future?

Are you called to foster or adopt? How can you come alongside and provide support for those who are called to foster or adopt? Not everyone is called to do the same thing, but if our faith is strong, it will drive us to consider what role we must play in meeting this great need.

Please at least explore what role you are called to fi ll in the life of a child. Call Paula Mealy of Kids Central, Inc. at (352) 387-3487, or email her at Paula.Mealy@ KidsCentralinc.org. For more information, you can also visit KidsCentralFosterParents.org.

Kids Central is the nonprofit lead agency charged with caring for the abused, neglected and abandoned children in Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Marion and Sumter Counties.

STICKING A FORK IN DIABETES AND CELIAC DISEASE

Very little slows down lively Ava Barnes, including diabetes and Celiac disease.

STORY: JAMES COMBS PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

As a Type 1 diabetic, Ava Barnes must keep her blood-sugar level within a safe range by constantly calculating what she’s eating, determining how much insulin the pump she wears is giving her, and pricking her inger up to 12 times a day to make sure her blood-sugar levels are not dangerously low or high. An abnormal reading means she must report to the school nurse.

This is not the only battle for Ava, a irst-grader at The Villages Elementary of Lady Lake. Three months after being diagnosed with diabetes at age 4, Ava learned she also has Celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder that means she cannot tolerate gluten because it damages the inner lining of her small intestine. She must avoid bread, pasta, cookies, crackers, and cake at all costs or risk becoming hospitalized. When her classmates and friends enjoy these snacks, Ava is the odd girl out.

“There are times Ava says she wishes she didn’t have to deal with these diseases, especially when she’s feeling sick or if we’re at a birthday party and she cannot have cake like the other children,” says her mother, Kari Barnes, of Lady Lake.

However, those gloomy moments are few and far between for this brown-eyed girl with light brown hair. Spend a little time with Ava and you’ll quickly realize she’s a bubbly ball of energy. In fact, during Healthy Living’s interview with Ava,

she wanted to talk about everything except diabetes and Celiac disease.

“Try to ind me,” she says while ducking under a table in the company’s conference room. She completely disappears; the only trace of her is a soft giggle coming from underneath the table.

Several minutes later, Ava asks me if I would like to watch her straddle on the loor.

“Sure,” I tell her.

She takes off her shoes, sits on the loor, and positions both legs straight out to the side.

Simply put, Ava does not allow the disease to hinder her enthusiasm for life. She participates in an after-school baton-twirling program, and this summer she will attend a local acting camp.

“She has a big personality and likes to show off,” says Kari. “Unfortunately, she has only participated in one out of 10 parades with her baton group because she gets too excited before the event and that causes her blood-sugar level to rise.”

Ava also enjoys dressing up her American Girl doll, blowing up balloons and watching them drift skyward, and swimming at her grandmother’s house.

“She is in her happy place when she’s doing those activities,” says Kari.

The girl has even mapped out a possible career path.

“I want to be a teacher. That way I could tell everybody what to do, write on a chalkboard, and have my own big desk.”

Having sympathy for children and adults with gluten intolerance, Kari recently opened BE Gluten Free Bakery. She makes goodies such as cupcakes, pizza crusts, cinnamon rolls, and hamburger buns from her kitchen and sells her products online or at local farmer’s markets. She hopes to eventually purchase a food truck.

“There’s no bakery around here that caters to people who can only eat gluten-free food,” Kari says. “I wanted people with Celiac disease to have a place where they can purchase tasty food and not have to worry about becoming sick.”

“I WANT TO BE A TEACHER. THAT WAY I COULD TELL EVERYBODY WHAT TO DO, WRITE ON A CHALKBOARD, AND HAVE MY OWN BIG DESK.”

Ava with her Mother Kari Barnes

Kruti is now seeing patients of all ages, and is deeply committed to making a difference in their lives.

Bachelor’s Degree in Biology: Birmingham-Southern College

Master’s Degree in Public Health: The University of Alabama at Birmingham

Master’s Degree in Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies: Barry University, Miami

Certification: National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA)

Licensure: Florida Board of Medicine

Me and Zeus are a package deal.

Like many hospice patients, Judy believes that the companionship of a beloved pet is better than any medicine. That’s why Cornerstone became the first hospice in the state to implement Pet Peace of Mind—a national program designed to keep her and Zeus together through every step of her end-of-life journey. Cornerstone dedicated itself to being in Judy’s corner. And thanks to Pet Peace of Mind, Zeus could, too.

Michael A. Freedman, DO Otolaryngology

S. Dwight Vaught, MD Otolaryngology

Judith Milstead, MD Otolaryngology

Dino Madonna, MD Surgery, Otolaryngology

BODY

“Wellness is the compete integration of body, mind, and spirit—the realization that everything we do, think, feel, and believe has an effect on our state of well-being.”

—Greg Anderson

10-MINUTE CREAMY DILL SALMON

SERVES 2

A quick, healthy treat for a delicious summer dinner. Add a crisp green salad, and you’re all set!

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

“My favorite thing to do is teach how to cook easy, healthy, budget-friendly meals with minimal ingredients!”

Jaime Alonso, certified health coach

I received my initial training and certification as a wellness coach at Spencer Institute. I then continued my training as a health coach from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition’s cutting-edge health coach training program. During my training, I studied over 100 dietary theories, practical lifestyle management techniques, and innovating coaching methods with some of the world’s top health and wellness experts. My teachers included Dr. Andrew Weil, director of The Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine; Dr. Deepak Chopra, leader in the field of mind-body medicine; Dr. David Katz, director of Yale University’s Prevention Research Center; Dr. Walter Willet, chair of nutrition at Harvard University; Geenan Roth, best-selling author and expert on emotional eating; and many other leading researchers and nutrition authorities.

My responsibility at TNT is to help you create a “sustainable” lifestyle change. Meeting you where you are in your journey and equipping you with practical tools to grow and learn new strategies; teaching you how to shop and meal plan; helping you create new ideas; and learning how to go out to eat are a few of the hands-on lessons you receive. I teach you how to live well for life!

Courtesy of Juli Bauer, PaleOMG.com

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

2. Place salmon filets on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, skin down.

3. In a bowl, mix together mayo, dill, garlic powder, and salt and pepper.

4. Sprinkle the salmon with a little extra salt, then divide mayo mixture and spread evenly on both filets.

5. Place in oven and bake for 7 to 8 minutes. Serve immediately.

2 salmon filets (6 ounces each)

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon fresh dill, minced

Salt and pepper, to taste 1/4 cup mayo

A HEALTHY, QUICK, AND EASYTO-MAKE MEAL THAT’S READY IN MINUTES

DR. MARK ROTHSCHILD

DR. VATSAL INAMDAR

ERICA HARDEN, ARNP

BRYAN CARTER, MPA-C

DR. GEORG COUTURIER

SCOTT WOJCIECHOWSKI, PA

A- C

SCOTT W

NO NEED TO BE SPIDEY

WRITER: LIZA WILLIAMS

Varicose veins are common and usually harmless, but they are unsightly. The dark, spidery patterns evident on thighs and calves can cause significant disfigurement as they spread and thicken through the years. Some cases are inherited, or come with pregnancy or menopause, but many cases are linked to poor circulation in legs and can be avoided or reduced with simple, costfree tactics.

NO. 1 Stand on tiptoe

When standing for a long time, give your legs a wiggle and shake whenever convenient. Rise up onto your toes and hold the position as long as you can, or go up and down on your feet a few times. This will stimulate blood flow to and from your legs, keeping veins healthy.

Gravity helps blood

flow down, but hinders its upward journey, especially when you’re standing up. Circulation tends to slow down as a result, sometimes causing varicose veins to develop, but frequent wiggles and stretches will counteract this problem.

NO. 2 Sit, perch, or lean

Another tactic for protecting leg veins while standing for long periods is to perch or lean when possible. If you’re standing at a bus stop, lean against the post.

Take every opportunity to lift the weight off at least one leg, and remember to give it a little swing, too. If a seat becomes available, take it, and swing both legs.

Every time you ease the weight on your legs, you’ll be helping your circulation, and consequently, helping prevent unsightly damage to the veins.

NO. 3 Do regular exercise

Move around whenever you can through the day, whether doing organized exercise or just puttering about the house. If you’ve been sitting awhile, get up and wander about, preferably up and down stairs, or do a few jumps with a rope. The activity will get your heart pumping and the blood coursing through your veins, including those in your legs, giving them the oxygen and exercise they need to stay strong and intact.

NO. 4 Avoid kneeling and crossing legs

Varicose veins can develop

when the delicate capillaries in your legs become squashed, causing the circulation around the area to be blocked or slowed. This can happen when you cross your legs or kneel on the floor, so take care how you sit, ensuring your legs are pressure-free.

NO. 5 Raise feet on cushions when resting

When relaxing, sit or lie with feet raised up on a footstool or cushions—the higher, the better. This arrangement will release your legs from the weight of your upper body, and also counteract the pull of gravity on your circulation, thus easing the flow two ways at once. If your legs are aching with fatigue, you’ll feel the relief right away.

Further measures

Smoking can also have a detrimental effect on circulation, and consequently, on varicose veins; so if you smoke, you may want to change your habits.

Obesity can also cause varicose veins. This happens as the pressure of weight on the legs squeezes the veins within, hampering circulation. Losing weight is not easy for most people, but keeping legs beautiful can be a strong incentive for the challenge.

If your thighs or calves are already blemished by varicose veins, easily conceal them with appropriate clothing while still showing off the shapeliness of your legs.

Alternatively, wear what you like and let these common markings show. Meanwhile, why not throw some fun into your minimizing measures, through new sports, dance routines, or crazy gymnastics. What better way to keep those veins healthy than to stand on your head?

If you have concerns, you may want to contact one of these local specialists.

VASCULAR VEIN CENTERS

910 Old Camp Rd Suite 162, The Villages, FL 32162 352.750.6191

CENTRAL FLORIDA VEIN AND VASCULAR CENTER

1503 Buenos Aires Blvd, The Villages, FL 32159 352.561.2800

PHYSICIANS VEIN CARE

607 Co Rd 466, Lady Lake, FL 32159 352.259.4117

VEIN CENTERS OF VILLAGES

12301 US-441, Belleview, FL 34420

352.245.5347

VASCULAR SPECIALISTS OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

2080 Oakley Seaver Dr. #100 Clermont, FL 34711 352.241.7585

THE VEIN CENTER OF NORTH FLORIDA

1920 SW 20th PL suite #100, Ocala, FL 34471 352.237.1212

FRAGRANCE

PHTHALATES

TRICLOSAN

SYNTHETIC COLORS

SODIUM LAUREL SULFATE/ SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE

PARABENS

FORMALDEHYDE

7 HARMFUL INGREDIENTS FOUND IN BODY CARE PRODUCTS

In the United States, chemical exposure is a constant concern for many people. Products like children’s toys contaminated with lead make the national news. However, the role of cosmetics and skin care products in chemical exposure is largely ignored, despite the fact it is an important concern. Teenagers have been found to have more than 16 toxic chemicals in their blood or urine upon testing.

The following seven products are widely considered unhealthy, even though they are all legal for use in the United States.

NO. 1 PARABENS

Parabens are chemical preservatives that help prevent the growth of fungi and bacteria. At least one study found that parabens increase the growth rate of breast cancer cells, although this study was done on cells in culture, not entire human organisms. However, the amounts needed to spur increased growth were very small when combined with a hormone normally found in human breast tissue. This means that even small amounts of parabens may increase your cancer risk.

NO. 2 SYNTHETIC COLORS

Synthetic colors are everywhere, including food and cosmetics. Only seven are legal for use in the United States, and not all of these are approved for food. Some of the dyes the FDA considers safe are banned or require a warning label in other parts of the world. Increased cancer risk, migraines, and hyperactivity are some of the potential side effects of artificial colors.

NO. 3 FRAGRANCE

Because of trademarks that individual companies held on their own scent blends, it has long been legal for products to use the generic term “fragrance” on the ingredients list of items ranging from shampoo to household cleaners. However, there is little regulation of these contents. Fragrance chemicals may be present in products that are labeled “unscented” or “fragrance free,” because these terms are legally meaningless. Most modern fragrances cause minimal skin irritation because this is a side effect consumers notice, but little is known about effects involving other parts of the body.

NO. 4 PHTHALATES

Phthalates are found in cosmetics and skin care products of all kinds. Two of the most common varieties are banned in the European Union but are legal in the United States. They are known to cause cancer in laboratory animals and function as endocrine

disruptors within the body. Phthalates may be found in fragrance blends as well as individually listed in the ingredients.

NO 5 TRICLOSAN

Triclosan is an antibacterial preservative. One of the major reasons that it should be avoided is because it is environmentally persistent. That means when it is introduced into the environment, triclosan kills good and bad bacteria alike, breaking down the natural balance of microbes. Triclosan is also an endocrine disruptor and a potential contributor to the increasing number of antibiotic-resistant bacteria being discovered.

NO. 6 SODIUM LAUREL SULFATE/ SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE

Sodium laurel sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) are surfactant detergents mainly used as foaming aids in personal care products, such as shampoo. SLES is sometimes used because it is slightly less irritating than SLS. However, both products can be harsh on skin and while not generally carcinogens themselves, can be contaminated with carcinogenic chemicals from the manufacturing process.

NO. 7 FORMALDEHYDE

Formaldehyde is a colorless, odorless gas that is most commonly used as the water-based form formalin. Formalin is a preservative that protects products against bacterial and fungal growth.

Its most common side effect in cosmetics is skin irritation. However, formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and the levels present in body care products are regulated. What level is safe has not been agreed upon by various authorities, so it may be best to simply avoid it.

BETTER BEAUTY PRODUCTS

More and more people are reading labels to ascertain which ingredients are harmful. However, reading labels isn’t easy, especially considering the amount of chemicals in some products. To add to this difficulty, new chemicals and formulations are constantly coming out. However, there are numerous organizations online that rate skin care products for safety that may be helpful when you can’t do the research yourself. If you choose a brand and stick with it, you only have to do the research once. Considering the amount of products that the average American uses on their skin and hair, it seems well worth the time to find out what is in your choice of items.

If you are searching for organic products, here are some local places to visit.

JEFF’S HEALTH & NUTRITION

914 N 14th st, Leesburg, FL 34748

352.365.6477

THE HEALTH BASKET

18040 US –441, Mt Dora, FL 32757 352.735.1166

THE GREEN APPLE HEALTH FOODS

724 US- 441, Lady Lake, FL 32159 352.350.2197

LIVING GREEN HEALTH FOODS

9726 US-441, Leesburg, FL 34748

352.314.3234

CLERMONT HERB SHOPPE & DAY SPA

702 W Montrose St, Clermont, Fl 34711

352.243.3588

The Clermont Herb Shoppe sells actual organic makeup products, the others just sell body care products like shampoo conditioners, and lotions.

MIND

“Sleep is that golden chain that ties health and our bodies together.”

— Thomas Dekke

NIGHT TIME IS THE RIGHT TIME

GETTING THE RIGHT AMOUNT OF SLEEP IS VITAL TO PERFORMANCE, MOOD, AND GENERAL WELL BEING. THERE ARE WAYS TO ENSURE YOU GET A BETTER NIGHT’S SLEEP.

WRITER: KIM-BADEN KRISTENSEN

When was the last time you awoke feeling really refreshed, ready to take on the day with a clear and focused mind?

If the answer is a few days ago or even a few weeks ago, then you are not being your brain’s best friend

HERE ARE SOME STRAIGHT FACTS ABOUT SLEEP:

Sleep is absolutely necessary for your brain function at its best.

Sleep is vital to make learning stick.

Sleep affects your general mood dramatically.

Sleep is a key source of renewed energy for your body and mind.

Sleep is necessary to repair and grow the brain.

Sleep protects the brain against brain disease.

Lack of sleep depresses your brain function and mood.

The human brain can plummet from its normal functioning level to its lowest performance level even with small sleep loss. A recent scientific

MIND

study says A students, who were in the top 10 percent of their class, have their performance level quickly dip when they were limited to less than seven hours of sleep per night. After only one week, their scores moved them into the lower 9 percent of their class.

During extended periods of sleep loss, you could experience increased anxiety and even depression. With complete loss of sleep, a person can drift into a psychosis and eventually die. Yes, sleep is essential to well being.

HOW MANY HOURS OF SLEEP DO YOU NEED?

An adult needs at least seven and half hours of sleep, maybe up to a full nine, with most averaging around eight hours a night. The answer depends on age, lifestyle, and how intensely you use your mind and body.

Picture this: Think of your mind and body as a bank in which you deposit sleep. It needs around

eight hours deposited every day. It’s not enough to just sleep in on the weekends. One solid night of sleep, unfortunately, does not make up for five nights without good deposits. If you keep living on sleep credit, your sleep debt continues growing. As sleep debt grows, your brain functions less and less optimally. You need those hours on weekdays, too, and even more if you want to perform your best in your job or your studies. There are ways to balance your sleep account.

A wake-up test reveals your need for sleep.

The best way to determine if you are getting enough sleep is a wake-up test. Quite simply: You will wake up yourself without the need for an alarm clock if you are getting enough sleep.

Is this the case for you? If not, try to get to bed a bit earlier in the coming days.

Sleep 30 minutes more every day starting today.

Be prepared for some internal resistance. It is very tempting to watch that extra hour of television, read a little more of your book, or stay up later with friends and family. Think of this experiment as a life quality boost and a rise in your personal effectiveness. It allows you to get more out of your time awake because you are more rested, which in turn, leads to better awake time. You’ll notice you are actually in a better mood as well on days when you got that extra sleep.

Let your brain get the sleep it needs and it will reward you with sharp focus and good emotions.

LET IT GO

BASIC MINDFULNESS FOR HANDLING STRESS.

WRITER: NIKO BERRY

The world constantly barrages everybody with more stress than can sometimes be handled. Between bad jobs and an inundation of bad news from all over the world, it’s a small miracle everybody hasn’t just thrown up their hands in collective surrender.

The bad news is, there is no way to get rid of it. The good news is you don’t have to give up. Much has been said about the popular song from the movie “Frozen” called “Let It Go,” but that could be your theme song for coping with stress. You are stronger than you think. You are strong enough to survive the presence of stress, and even to thrive with it.

The first step to understanding how to handle stress is to accept it. Common wisdom argues if something causes you pain, you should avoid it, and if you enjoy something, seek it out. This is not necessarily the case. To take a spiritual look at things, the Buddha Siddhartha noticed people disliked the things that hurt them—when chased by their demons, they try as hard as they can to either fight or escape them. However, the Buddha noticed that this tendency just puts them in even more pain. One of the secrets of life is the things that hurt you are part of living, and although there is no way to stop or escape them all, there are ways to come to terms with them.

One way to help subdue stress and make the best of life is to practice mindfulness. Built on many of the meditative tenets of Buddhism, mindfulness is also supported by modern psychological research. The American Psychological Association notes a wide range of studies showing the mental health benefits mindfulness provides. Researchers theorize that mindfulness meditation promotes metacognitive awareness (active control over the cognitive

processes) and enhances attentional capacities through gains in working memory. Making these cognitive gains contributes to effective emtional control.

What is mindfulness? Quite simply, it is awareness of yourself and how you experience all aspects of life. Whether those aspects are negative or positive, mindfulness acknowledges them without judgement.

Mindfulness is hard to master

tling into this position and finding a natural pace for your breath, you will notice thoughts flow into your head. Again, this is not a good or bad thing—it simply is. Observe those thoughts, whatever they may be. If you notice worries, do not judge them. Worry, anxiety, and fear are unpleasant, but they are also natural. They are a part of who you are. Do not judge them. As you notice the existence of your worries, other thoughts may drift through your mind. Perhaps memories come to your attention. Say hello to your memories, whatever they are. Maybe you think about what you had for lunch today or what you’re having for lunch tomorrow. Neither of these thoughts is are bad or good, they simply are. Notice them.

This is the first step to mindfulness: accepting all your thoughts, paying attention to your inner world, and not fighting the flow of your mind. Fighting yourself, trying to think only positive things, or denying and hating negativity, only hurts you. Instead, accept all facets of yourself. Don’t rush; pay attention to your inner world until mindfulness comes naturally.

but easy to start. Take a seat, cross your legs, and hold your back up high with the strength you wish to find. Now, breathe. Do not focus on your breathing. Instead, accept what comes naturally to you. Breathing, like all things in life, is just something that happens, neither positive nor negative.

After you spend some time set-

As you become more mindful about yourself, doing the same with the world around you will slowly get easier. You will eventually take the whole of the world, good and bad, and accept it for what it is. While you’re going about life, taking 30 minutes to meditate is rarely an option. That is why it is important to reach a point where you are passively mindful of all of the things happening in your daily life.

Life is made of highs and lows; stress is part of the package. Instead of trying to cut it out of your life, try using mindfulness and acceptance to feel more at ease with all parts of your life.

Fighting yourself, trying to think only positive things, or denying and hating negativity, only hurts you. Accept all facets of yourself.

High-Tech Health Care

A group of trained surgeons performing minimally invasive surgeries with the use of robotic technologies.

Da Vinci robot features a magnifi ed 3D HD vision system and special instruments that bend and rotate equal to the human wrist. The features enable our surgeons to operate with enhanced vision, precision, dexterity and control, through a minimally invasive incision.

One of the many procedures performed is the treatment for GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease). The most common signs and symptoms of GERD are frequent acid reflux and heartburn.

For more information regarding this minimally invasive procedure, along with other surgical procedures performed by the group, please visit our website www.MidFloridaSurgical.com

Clermont

1804 Oakley Seaver Dr. Suite A

Clermont, FL 34711

352.243.2622

Ocoee

10000 W. Colonial Dr. Suite 288

Ocoee, FL 34761 407.521.3600

SPIRIT

“Your self-esteem won’t come from body parts. You need to step away from the mirror every once in a while, and look for another reflection, like the one in the eyes of the people who love you and admire you. “

—Stacy London

WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD IT WOULD BE

Six steps to a better work/ Personal life balance.

Achieving the proper balance of work and family life can be difficult. Being too focused on work may lead to exhaustion and take a toll on family and personal life. It’s a source of unnecessary stress that causes burnout and decreases productivity. Fortunately, there are ways to better balance work and personal life.

NO. 1 PUT GOALS AND OBJECTIVES IN WRITING

Setting goals and objectives for your professional and personal life makes for better time management. Putting goals in writing helps you see where changes are needed. When you have a clear picture of how much time you need to devote to work, family, friends, and yourself, you’ll be more likely to achieve these goals and spend time on things that truly matter.

NO. 2 LEARN THE BASICS OF TIME MANAGEMENT

When time isn’t managed well, it is easy to waste it on unimportant details. Bad habits such as procrastination lead to wasted time, stress, and difficulties at home and work. Manging time so you don’t put things off or get distracted means more time with family and friends.

NO. 3 GET PROPER TRAINING AND TOOLS

Are you doing your job as efficiently as

possible? The right knowledge and tools can reduce time at work. For example, if you are struggling to understand new software, you’ll waste time asking for help or looking through the manual. If you are physically uncomfortable, you’ll get fatigued and possibly make mistakes. If there is something to help you do your job more efficiently, invest in it. Simple things such as a self-study course, an ergonomic chair, or an anti-fatigue mat can make you more productive and save time at work.

NO. 4 PLAN HOLIDAYS AND BREAKS

It’s also important to plan ahead and set aside time for holidays and breaks. Scheduled breaks guarantee quality time with friends and relatives and also help you recharge. You’ll come back to work refreshed, with the energy to get more done.

NO. 5 AVOID ACTIVITIES THAT STEAL YOUR ENERGY

There are always people who don’t respect

your time. Whether it’s a friend who calls at work or a coworker who can’t stop bothering you, these interruptions steal your time. Plan ahead; spend time only on worthwhile activities. You’ll be more productive and have more free time for what matters most.

NO. 6 STAY HEALTHY

When your schedule is too full, it’s easy to neglect your health even though it has a tremendous impact on daily life. Feeling bad keeps you from getting work done and being with family. It’s important to take care of yourself. Stay healthy with exercise, proper diet, and regular doctor visits to reduce stress and stay alert and productive.

There are many ways to achieve a better work/life balance. Start by outlining what you wish to achieve, learning to manage your time, and prioritizing activities to help you be more productive. Learn to manage time stealers, schedule breaks, and look after your health. You’ll reap the benefits of a better work/ personal life balance.

THE YOU CAN BE

DEVELOPING BETTER SELF-ESTEEM: Embracing your strengths and your weaknesses

WRITER: PHOENIX GRIFFIN

What’s the primary difference between people who are confident and people who aren’t? People who tend to evaluate their worth based on what they do, rather than on who they are most likely struggle with a degree of low selfesteem. The problem with assessing your value based on personal performance is that in the majority of cases, your greatest accomplishments might only be temporary in nature.

KEEPING UP WITH THE JONESES

People who don’t feel good about themselves tend to overemphasize achievements and underplay weaknesses. In our society, the most attractive celebrities and the strongest professional athletes cover the front pages of almost every publication, serving as a constant reminder that how people look, how many friends they have, and their job title is what matters most.

The opposite extreme of over-emphasizing performance-driven actions is underplaying personal weaknesses, which creates a dangerous cycle. People who can’t admit flaws won’t change. Instead of living life to the fullest, they waste time and effort masking their undesirable qualities, which creates a façade that eventually entraps them. On the other hand, people who embrace their weaknesses and view

them as opportunities in disguise tend to be selfconfident and deeply satisfied.

THE DANGERS ASSOCIATED WITH LOW SELF-ESTEEM

The “keeping up with the Joneses” mentality is one of the most psychologically dangerous practices within our culture. It involves a system constantly comparing yourself to others, of never being content, and having an insatiable need to work harder to keep up appearances. It’s no surprise that according to a report compiled by Gift Economy International on (Aug. 12, 2014), “Suicide rates are much higher among the wealthiest nations.”

The direct correlation between people placing their worth in material possessions or accomplishments and the extreme amounts of unhappiness that result from this mindset has never been more evident. If you struggle with low selfesteem, you’re not alone. Although you may feel you aren’t in control, you can change—and it might not be as difficult as you think.

NO. 1 Take an Honest Assessment of Yourself

Improving your self-image doesn’t involve lying to yourself. For example, if you aren’t a size zero, there’s no use in telling yourself you are. However, if you’re beating yourself up because you aren’t as skinny like

your friend, you’re your own worst enemy and preventing a positive change. In other words, if you've already rejected yourself, chances are you won't take the initiative to work out and eat healthier to lose a few pounds.

The key to acceptance is honest evaluation of both strengths and weaknesses. Identify what you love about yourself and create a sense of gratitude for who you are. If you have trouble making a list, ask friends or coworkers for feedback. You may be surprised at who you are once you focus on your strengths. Next, identify weaknesses. Be honest about the changes you’d like to make. Take small steps. Write down a realistic plan for change that won’t create more pressure.

NO. 2 Self-Confidence Stems from SelfAwareness

There are things you can change about yourself and things you can’t. The quicker you learn to love yourself for who you are, the more self-confident you'll become. See yourself as your own best friend, and pay attention to thoughts and feelings. Instead of seeing your mind and emotions as separate entities, embrace them as the truest reflection of who you are.

When you look in the mirror in the morning, meditate on how you feel about yourself. Are there areas that you’re refusing to

accept about your physical appearance? Are you disappointed with hair color or ashamed of your smile? Can you identify where your self-loathing begins?

Becoming more selfaware involves not only taking an honest inventory of your own life but also discerning how you feel about others. Is there someone you tend to judge? Is there a specific group that makes you feel uncomfortable, either because of beliefs, ethnic backgrounds, or physical appearances? In many cases, external judgment stems from internal selfcriticism. You can learn a lot about how you feel about yourself by determining how you feel about others.

NO. 3 Take Your Mind off of

NO. 5 Set Goals and Take

Risks

learn

While you’re beginning to learn how to become more self-refl it’s equally important to practice focusing away from yourself at times. Treat your problems as if they’re a job, and take the day off to focus on others.

According to the article “10 Facts that Prove Helping Others is a Key to Achieving Happiness,” the Huffington Post (March 20, 2015) explains there are physical changes to the mesolimbic systems whenever you donate to charity or engage in volunteer work. In fact, some psychologists refer to the phenomenon as a “helper’s high.” Putting others’ needs above your own gives you a feeling of connectedness, which positively influences self-esteem and enriches your sense of purpose and belonging.

NO. 4 Go Against the Grain of Your Own Negative Thinking

Consider your worst thoughts about yourself, and purposefully think the exact opposite. For example, if you can’t stand being an introvert, take an extroverted approach to accept your personality. Looking in the mirror, compliment yourself on what an incredible personality you have. Think about someone who’s given you a positive comment about your introverted nature, and meditate on those words. Have you made someone relax because you’re typically quiet and calm during stressful situations? Has someone told you they appreciate how you help them stand out even in a room full of people? Instead of seeing the things you don't have the power to change as negative traits, embrace them as your greatest strengths.

If you struggle with poor se difficult ns

risks. Fear of

esteem, it might be diffi make plans and follow through or take unnecessary risks. Fear of failure is something many people deal with, but the only way to overcome it is to intentionally move past the fear and make positive changes.

Focus on something that causes you anxiety—such as meeting a friend for dinner, going to the grocery store, or talking with a family member. Instead of becoming passive about your insecurity, become aggressive about it. While it might be difficult at first, this step involves analyzing things you do that contribute to your greater self-esteem, rather than boosting your self-confidence.

The truth is that more people share these feelings that you, regardless of whether you view them as confident or not. By being proactive, you develop a healthier self-image and see the world in a

new way.

FINANCE

“Growth based on debt is unsustainable, artificial.“

— Jose Manuel Barroso

KEEP IT OR LET IT GO?

Dear Dave,

How do you decide whether or not to sell collectible memorabilia when you’re getting out of debt?

—William

Dear William,

In most cases, there’s a pretty wide spectrum of emotional involvement when it comes to this sort of stuff. I mean, there’s a big difference between having a baseball signed by Mickey Mantle from a day that you and your dad met Mickey at the stadium, and buying a baseball a few years ago that he autographed and seeing it has gone up in value.

With the first, I’d be tempted to tell you to keep it unless you’re literally about to lose everything. In it, you have a deep, emotional connection—a personal story about you, your dad, and one of the greatest baseball players of all time. It was a sentimental, once-in-a-lifetime kind of thing.

In the second case, it’s just a purchase you made as a hobby. That kind of thing can let go without a whole lot of thought. If what you own doesn’t have some kind of deep sentimental and emotional connection to family or a major life event, then it’s just stuff.

I hope this helps a little, William. There’s nothing wrong with having some nice things. But there’s a big difference between you having things and your things having you. Never let “stuff” stand between you and your family’s sense of security and financial well-being!

—Dave

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.

DON’T GET CAUGHT IN DEBT

WRITER: B.E.CONRAD

If you feel you can never be able to get out of debt, you are certainly not alone. Millions of people struggle with debt, and those costs add up pretty quickly. From late fees on your credit cards to interest charges on student loans, debt is expensive. If you want to get out of debt and stay debt-free for a lifetime, avoiding debt traps is a great way to start. Here are five of the most common debt traps and how to avoid them.

No. 1 Not Keeping Track of Your Balances

If you do not know how much you owe, chances are you will never pay it off. Whether your outstanding balances are in the hundreds or tens of thousands, you need to keep careful track of how much you owe and how much you pay back each month.

The monthly payments on your debt should be part of the family budget, and total outstanding balances should be part of your net worth balance sheet. If you do not have a family budget and a net worth spreadsheet, now is the time to create them.

No. 2 Buying More House Than You Can Afford

If you are in the market for a home, the bank or mortgage company will run the numbers and tell you how much home you can afford. That does not mean, however, you should spend that amount.

Experts recommend that mortgage payments be no more than 28 percent of

your gross income, so run your own numbers and set your budget accordingly. Buying a less-expensive home than the bank says you can afford is a great way to avoid crippling debt should something go wrong.

No. 3 Making Minimum Payments on Your Credit Cards

If you pay the minimum on credit cards, it will take years to pay off even a small balance. Making the minimum payment is one of the most dangerous debt traps of all.

Paying the minimum may seem to stretch your monthly budget, but with credit card interest rates hovering around 15 percent or higher, nothing could be more harmful to your finances. If making a larger payment is beyond your reach, it is time to cut up your credit cards and put yourself on a strict cash budget.

No. 4 Your Kids Rule Your Financial Life

It is hard to say no to your kids, but there are times when no is the right answer. If the needs of your children are ruling your financial life or causing you to spend beyond your means, it’s time to start saying no.

Children’s needs are important, so don’t skimp on things they truly—school supplies, quality clothing, and food are essential. The latest cell phone and the best tech gizmos are not.

No. 5 You Fail to Plan for Emergencies

If you fail to

plan for emergencies, even the smallest financial road bump can send you into a tailspin. It could lead to ever-increasing amounts of debt leaving you unable to dig out of the hole that lack of planning has created.

Financial experts recommend you have a minimum of three to six months worth of living expenses set aside in a money market fund or savings account, and 12 months is even better. If

your current balance is a little light, keep putting money aside until you reach your goal.

Getting into debt is easy; getting out of debt is much harder. When it comes to debt, what you avoid doing can have an even bigger impact than what you do. Avoiding the five common debt traps listed above can help you stay out of debt, which is much easier than trying to get out of debt.

JULY 5 AND 19

Joint Replacement Class

Patients undergoing hip or knee replacement will feel more confident and better prepared with this class. An instructor walks patients through the entire process—from preparation to recovery—and addresses any questions or concerns they may have. South Lake Hospital, 1900 Don Wickham Drive, Clermont. Information: 352.394.4071

JULY 6

Eating Well With Diabetes

Led by a registered dietitian, this free community class helps diabetics and prediabetics learn proper nutrition. 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. LiveWell Fitness Center at South Lake Hospital, 1935 Don Wickham Drive, Clermont. Information: 352.241.7109.

JULY 7

Cancer Support Group

A cancer diagnosis begins a journey that is both physically and emotionally challenging. This group provides an opportunity to be with other cancer patients and survivors and receive encouragement and support.1:30 to 3 p.m. at Florida Hospital Waterman’s Cancer Institute Conference Room, 4000 Waterman Way. Information: 352.253.3605.

JULY 9

Cool Summer Mornings 5k Series

Participants will enjoy a scenic 3.1-mile course that begins on Clermont’s residential streets, heads out onto the South Lake Trail and ends at Waterfront Park. Start time is 7:45 a.m. 330 3rd Street Clermont.

Information: 352.394.1320

JULY 11

Parkinson’s Disease Support Group

Emotional support and education for patients with Parkinson’s disease and their families. 1 to 2:30 p.m. Conroy CREATION Health Center at Florida Hospital Waterman, 1000 Waterman Way in Tavares. Information: 352.253.3685.

JULY 11

Central Florida Triathlon & 5k Series #2

Athletes will complete a 10-mile bicycle ride, 3.1mile run and ¼-mile swim. Waterfront Park, 330 3rd Street Clermont. Afterward, competitors will enjoy great food, an awards ceremony, and live entertainment.

Information: 352.394.1320

JULY 12

Mended Hearts Support Group

Mended Hearts offers hope to patients with heart disease, as well as their families and caregivers.

12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at Florida Hospital Waterman, 1000 Waterman Way, Tavares. Information: 352.253.3399.

JULY 13

CPR

This class, sponsored by South Lake Hospital, provides certified training in basic life-saving techniques for use with adults, children, and infants. This class also offers CPR renewals that follow the American Heart Association’s basic life support guidelines. Cost: $40. 6 to 10 p.m. LiveWell Fitness Center at South Lake Hospital, 1935 Don Wickham Drive, Clermont. Information: 352.241.7109.

JULY 16

Caped Crusader 5k

This event is part of the National Training Center’s Lace it up Series. This is a progressive race series, offering a distance for every level of runner or walker. Each race will be chip timed, and participants receive a finisher medal. 1935 Don Wickham Drive, Clermont. Cost: $28 for early registration; $35 for late entry. Information: 352.241.7144

JULY 18

OB/Labor and Delivery Tours

Lake County residents may tour Leesburg Regional Medical Center’s beautiful Life Center for Women unit, which is located on the hospital’s second floor. 5 p.m. Information: 352.323.5960.

JULY 26

Senior Yoga

Yoga in a chair is a wonderful way for people with physical limitations to experience relaxation and flexibility that yoga brings. It also helps bring increased circulation to all parts of the body. 10:30 a.m. Cost: $10 per person. Vitruvian Health Center, 353 Plaza Drive Eustis. Information: 352.255.1969

•

• Over 30 years

Kathleen M. Bogolin, CPA

IGNORANCE IS JUST AS PAINFUL

BY JAMES COMBS

I’ve always wondered what triggers people with chronic pain to commit suicide. Is it the pain itself, or is it having to endure the ignorance of others?

In some cases, it’s definitely the latter.

That’s especially true for people with “invisible” illnesses. Someone with an invisible illness is not bald from chemotherapy, wheelchair-bound from multiple sclerosis, or incredibly weak and thin from AIDS. Nor are they missing any limbs. Because there is no outward sign of illness or disease, people become overly suspicious when these patients complain of chronic pain.

Doctors may label them pillseekers. Family members may label them lazy. Friends may label them hypochondriacs.

Truth is, they’re none of the above. They are simply desperate to regain some semblance of a normal life. And when there are no medications or surgeries available to provide them with long-lasting relief, all hope seems lost. They’ve become a shell of their former selves, buried beneath all the physical pain and suddenly unable to work or participate in activities they once enjoyed.

But they are not simply battling chronic pain; they are battling the stigma that accompanies it. Try

remembering a time in your life when you felt debilitating pain. Maybe it was from a car accident or sports injury. Life probably wasn’t very enjoyable until your pain subsided.

Now, imagine what your life would be like if that pain was constant. Imagine going to a doctor’s office because you’re desperate for relief, only to be called a drug addict and told that the pain is all in your head. Imagine trying to open up to family members or friends, only to be told you are useless and lazy or simply not trying hard enough. As a defense mechanism, you detach and isolate yourself from everyone, which abruptly

turns into a world of loneliness and darkness. Now, trying to cope by yourself made your aches even more painful because you live in a world with little knowledge of what you’re going through and even less knowledge of how to connect with you.

And then you hear constant disapproval of the way you’re coping.

“You nap too much.”

“Crying isn’t going to help.”

“You’re on way too many medications.”

That doesn’t sound very fun, does it? Yet, that’s the sad reality endured by many chronic pain patients.

I cannot say this enough: If you’ve never suffered from a disease or illness affecting a chronic pain patient, then you have absolutely no right to be judgmental. And try using a little bit of common sense. Do you really think these people enjoy going from one doctor to another while shelling out lots of money? Do you think they really prefer lying in bed on a hot summer day instead of being at the beach? Do you really think that a hardworking person wakes up one morning and decides to fake illness so he or she can collect disability (which, by the way, doesn’t pay squat)?

Nobody is asking you to coddle and baby a chronic pain patient, but you should show more empathy and less ignorance toward their situation. A little understanding can go a long way in helping them maintain the strength to continue fighting and give them peace of mind knowing they are not alone in this daily struggle.

#1 in getting you back to the 18th.

We’rEReady for you, too.

It’s good to know there’s a number one hospital nearby. Florida Hospital Waterman is here, ready to get you back on the course should something ever go wrong. More Lake County residents trust Florida Hospital Waterman for their orthopedic emergencies than any other hospital in the county. So, go ahead. Swing away to your heart’s content.