Northside Woman, October 2015

OCTOBER 2015

PROJECT THINK PINK Chattahoochee students start breast cancer awareness club

PAINTING FLOWERS FOR HEALING French artist paints for restorative goal

FOR THE LOVE OF A

Horse

Breast cancer survivor, Miaka Palmieri, starts local rescue & healing program

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october2015 | northsidewoman.com | 3

staff

Christina Appen

Suzanne Pacey

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Taylor Wright

Candy Waylock

EDITOR

Devon Morgan PHOTOGRAPHER

DEVON MORGAN/PHOTOSYNTHESIS ATLANTA

PUBLISHER

SENIOR WRITER

Kimberly Brock

{ INSIDE }

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

general manager Hans Appen hans@northsidewoman.com sales executives Hans Appen, Wendy Goddard, Abby Breaux, June Meltzer, Mike Dorman, Paige Roman, Regan Schoch, Taylor Wright sales assistant Susan Hernandez production Suzanne Pacey, David Brown, A.J. McNaughton

770.442.3278 | 770.475.1216 (fax) 319 north main street, alpharetta, ga. 30009

NORTHSIDEWOMAN.COM facebook.com/ northsidewoman twitter.com/ nsidewoman

Northside Woman is published monthly & distributed free throughout north metro Atlanta. © 2015 Appen Media Group. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be copied or reprinted without the express written permission of the publisher.

4 | northsidewoman.com | september2015 october2015

northside women { 6 } GETTING TO KNOW

Johns Creek resident, Juliet Weaver,

forms cancer-based support group { 10 } SHE GIVES BACK

“The Place of Forsyth” inspires family

of volunteers for over a decade { 14 }

GIRL POWER Cecily Mohammed and peers launch Project Think Pink for breast cancer awareness

{ 22 }

THE INTERVIEW Miaka Palmieri’s organization continues to spur positivity in her life, post-breast cancer

the cover

Miaka Palmieri started her organization “For the Love of a Horse” after learning about Gracie (on cover) who was hit by a car and needed extensive medical care. The ability to save and rescue local animals kept Miaka’s spirit alive during her own chemo treatments. See the story on page 22.

{ 24 } GOOD BOOKS

Johns Creek resident, Nanette

Littlestone, writes F.A.I.T.H { 26 } HER STYLE

Illuminations by Borrelli’s Salon

provides medical-grade wigs { 36 } TAKE 5

Aesthetic Specialty Centre weighs in

on 5 facial procedures

northside lifestyle

{ 38 } ASK THE VET

Loving Hands Animal Clinic’s Dr.

Roesner explains cancer in animals

{ 16 } WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Mother-daughter duo join forces

for Honey & Hazel Boutique

{ 40 } GOOD LOVIN’ See what Dr. Cathy is

talking about this month!

{ 42 } OCTOBER CALENDAR

{ 20 } NORTHSIDE MAN

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getting to know her

Members of the Sweet Tea Ministry at Johns Creek Baptist Church include, from left, Elizabeth Byars, Sally Copeland, Teresa Smith, Juliet Weaver, Betty Guffin, Heidi Carr and Brenda Hydrick.

The power of prayer Sweet Tea Ministry helps those on cancer journey

BY CANDY WAYLOCK

candy@northsidewoman.com

L

ife for Juliet Weaver is not divided by the line cancer drew back in 2003, when the healthy, vibrant wife and mom of two small children got the devastating news. The diagnosis sent the then 33-year-old Weaver into fight mode, determined that cancer would simply be a “bump in the road” in her life’s journey.

“I had never heard of lymphoma when I was diagnosed!” Weaver said of her non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

“But you get educated very quickly and learn more than you ever wanted to know.”

The Johns Creek resident put her trust in the hands of her physicians and caregivers, and her faith in God and her church to help her body fight the disease. During the rounds of chemotherapy and radiation, she leaned on her support networks to keep her strong.

“The most valuable thing all of these folks did for us was to pray,” said Weaver, who attends Johns Creek Baptist Church. “I realized how fortunate I was to be surrounded by people who were so strong in their faith, and I couldn’t imagine going on this journey without that support. “ After successfully completing treatment, Weaver looked for a way to provide that same support to others going through similar challenges. She knew firsthand what it was like to feel scared, alone and unsure of the future.

6 | northsidewoman.com | october2015

Weaver also knew that, for many, finding strength through faith was as important as medical care.

“I read about all kinds of cancer support groups that were being offered at our local hospitals and other organizations, but nothing was faith-based,” said Weaver, the mother of two teenagers with husband, Bryan. “I really felt strongly that this was a key piece of fighting this disease.”

Through a friend, she learned of an out-of-state church that hosted a “high tea” on occasion for members affected by cancer. Inspired by the possibilities, she approached the leadership at Johns Creek Baptist Church in 2007 about starting a similar program there. Soon after, the Sweet Tea Ministry was in its formative stages.

“I knew that getting this off the ground was going to take more than one person, so I reached out to fellow

I realized how fortunate I was to be surrounded by people who were so strong in their faith, and I couldn’t imagine going on this journey without that support. “ cancer survivors Heidi Carr, Frances Gober, Shan Pate and Elizabeth Power to see if they would be interested in creating this ministry. Fortunately, they all felt the same call that I did and agreed immediately to jump on board… and ‘Sweet Tea’ was born,” she explained.

The five original members are still active in Sweet

Tea, and have now expanded to a core group of 11 women who host quarterly teas for cancer survivors, patients, friends, family and caregivers. The care and attention that goes into each tea is a labor of love for the hostesses.

Every tea has a unique theme with special guest Juliet Weaver an

d her husband Br

yan.

speakers and musical entertainment. Tables are set with an eclectic mix of vintage china that has been donated to the ministry, complete with unique centerpieces.

Weaver said the teas now host an average of 150 people from around the community. Guest speakers have included a wide range of people, from Barbara Dooley, author and wife of Vince Dooley, to NFL stars, local artists, master gardeners, actors, singers, chefs and a host of others.

Weaver said she hopes the guests at the teas come away from the events with a sense of community and support, and said the hosts take away even more.

“As it so often happens when you set out to offer blessings to others, the blessings have been all ours. At the end of every tea, it is our hearts that are a little lighter and our souls that have been restored. It is truly a gift and we are so grateful for the opportunity to serve others,” said Weaver.

While men are certainly invited to the teas, Weaver said the group also hosts a Sweet Tea Tailgate party once a year with a more casual atmosphere and sports theme geared toward men. (The next tailgate is Nov. 8 with guest speaker former Atlanta Falcons head coach Dan Reeves.)

The outreach for the Sweet Tea Ministry goes beyond the quarterly teas and also includes a prayer shawl ministry. Weaver said the shawls are “lovingly made and prayed over, then delivered to patients who are hospitalized and/or going through treatment. “

► See GETTING TO KNOW, Page 8

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getting to know her

▼ GETTING TO KNOW, Continued from Page 10 The church also has a prayer quilt ministry with handmade quilts given to people who are going through medical situations.

“Both the shawls and quilts not only keep patients warm as they sit in a chilly doctor’s office or chemo lab, but are a beautiful reminder that they are loved and have been prayed for,” said Weaver.

Weaver knows from experience that a successful cancer journey starts with proper medical care. The Auburn University graduate has a degree in engineering with a focus on health care, and currently coordinates the melanoma and sarcoma program at Northside Hospital Cancer Institute. But she knows firsthand that many people benefit greatly from spiritual support, as well.

“Thank goodness we live in the age of modern medicine and have access to such great health care facilities,” said Weaver. “These are of vital importance to getting the proper treatment when going through a serious illness. The spiritual well being of the patient plays a crucial role in the healing process as well. The goal of Sweet Tea is here to nurture the soul.”

She also knows that even though cancer is a part of her past, it will always be a part of who she is. And her journey compels her to continually look behind her and provide a hand up to those just starting on their journeys.

“I believe that there are blessings that come out of every situation,” said Weaver. “I hope that I am using my experience to positively impact others and I am passionate about helping those who have been impacted by cancer.”

To find out more about the Sweet Tea Ministry through the Johns Creek Baptist Church, visit http:// jcbc.org/mobilization/sweet-tea-ministry/, or email sweetteaministry@gmail.com. ■

Anna Brook Hydrick is all smiles after receiving a prayer shawl from the Sweet Tea Ministry before undergoing surgery.

Juliet Weaver, third from left, at a recent Sweet Tea Tailgate party, along with other members of the Johns Creek Baptist Church Sweet Tea Ministry group, including from left, Heidi Carr, Betty Guffin, Kelli Segraves, Teresa Smith and Sally Copeland.

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she gives back

Giving back runs in the family for The Place volunteer

By KATHLEEN STURGEON

kathleen@appenmediagroup.com

B

ecky Powell, 63, has never stopped listening to her father. So when he said it might be a good idea to begin volunteering with The Place of Forsyth 13 years ago, she agreed.

“When I retired, my dad told me I needed to go talk to the people at The Place because it’d be a good place for me,” Powell said. “I tell people I’m there because my dad told me to.

Even at this age I still listen to my dad.”

Although she was able to retire at 50, 15 years earlier than full retirement age, Powell said she is always looking for something to do.

Her parents, now 88 and 89, were the Monday bread room volunteers at The Place, 2550 The Place Circle in Cumming, for two decades, so she was quite familiar with the organization.

Becky Powell

10 | northsidewoman.com | october2015

After talking to the then president and executive director, Powell started volunteering. In less than a year, she was president of the board.

“I laugh and say I’m there because my dad told me to, but that’s not really the reason,” Powell said. “My heart is with The Place and has been ever since the beginning.

I care deeply about giving back to the community.”

Life is good, Powell said. She said she is fortunate enough to be in a comfortable position in life: her kids are grown, she has many grandchildren and has been married for almost 45 years.

“I never thought I’d be in a position to be able to give back at this age,” Powell said.

“I thought I’d have to work my whole life. The

► See SHE GIVES BACK, Page 12

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she gives back

How TO GET INVOLVED These agency programs offer different ways to volunteer: Food programs: includes surplus pantry, food pantry, Wednesday noonday meals.

▼ SHE GIVES BACK, Continued from Page 10 Place keeps me grounded. I appreciate what I have so much. You can become jaded because you think everyone has a good life, but not all do.”

She tries to remember that when volunteering.

“We help with rent, electric bills or homelessness, but it’s not good enough to help with that and then just walk away,” Powell said. “There’s something else going on in that person’s life, even with somebody who walks in and just needs food.

It’s really a cry for help. We need to refer them to somebody and be of assistance. We can get them to the right person.”

Sometimes, that right person might be a volunteer with The Place. The organization has an up-and-coming program that includes an option for those who aren’t yet retired to still give back.

Explaining, Powell said The Place is starting a new

mentoring-type program that connects people struggling to get their lives back together with individuals who can help.

Interested volunteers “could spend 15 minutes once a week to make phone calls to these people,” she said. “You can do something in as little as 15 minutes a week. You could mentor somebody struggling in some way. It’s just a phone call. You don’t even have to meet them.”

The Place also has volunteer positions on weekends as well as weekly meal volunteer opportunities. In addition to individual efforts, Powell said The Place is always looking for large groups, such as businesses or neighborhoods, to volunteer together.

“The more people you reach and the more people who understand what we do, the more chances we have of reaching the people who need our help,” she said.

For information on The Place and how to help, visit www.theplaceofforsyth.org. ■

YEAR

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Direct emergency assistance program: helps people in crisis situations by preventing disconnection of utilities, eviction/foreclosure and homelessness, and also provides referrals if there are medical needs.

Keep The Lights On: helps in their mission to “Keep the lights on” for those in Forsyth County who need the aid.

Elderly assistance: ensures that basic needs of local senior citizens are met.

Medical fund: provides prescription vouchers for life-sustaining medications and can offer limited assistance for basic emergency dental-care needs.

Thanksgiving food boxes: provided for families struggling during these difficult economic times.

Youth program: ensures the basic needs of children in Forsyth County are met.

Thrift store program: provides thrift store vouchers for basic needs, and interagency child-need vouchers.

Other activities: including walkers, wheelchairs, fans, heaters, winter coat distribution and access to shower facilities as well as other resources for homeless residents.

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girlpower

Teens’ Quest for Breast Cancer

Awareness

Desiree Stoute, center, with 2014 members of Project Think Pink.

By TAYLOR WRIGHT

14 | northsidewoman.com | october2015

MICHELLE DAVINA PHOTOGRAPHY

I

t’s not every day that teens yearn to establish something larger than themselves, but that is exactly what two Johns Creek girls set out to do. Four years ago, when Cecily Mohammed and Nia Ratliff were seventh-graders at Taylor Road Middle School, they founded Project Think Pink to raise money and awareness for breast cancer.

Mohammed’s mother, Desiree Stoute, lost a close friend, April Kruger, to breast cancer several years earlier. The two girls decided, to honor Kruger’s memory, they would sell pink donuts and donate funds to the Atlanta 2-Day Walk for Breast Cancer.

The next year, when Mohammed and Ratliff were in eighth grade, they gathered more club members and organized a “Pink Out” at TRMS during the month of October.

They also planned Project Think Pink’s first gala. A formal event held in Atlanta with keynote speakers and sponsors, that gala raised an astounding $10,000 for the Atlanta 2-Day Walk for Breast Cancer and netted the girls various awards and accolades.

Two years later, Project Think Pink is still going strong.

Though Ratliff has since moved out of state, Mohammed, 15, is a Chattahoochee High School sophomore who, with the help of her mother and two other friends - Melis Demir and Tais Ferreira – is still raising money for breast cancer awareness. Hoping to build on last year’s second Project Think Pink gala, which raised $7,000 for the cause, the group has new plans for their 2016 fundraiser.

Tais Ferreira, Cecily Mohammed, and Melis Demir launch Project Think Pink for breast cancer The springtime event will be a awareness. masquerade ball at a downtown Roswell venue.

In the meantime, Mohammed will be busy indeed. In addition to being a kicker for Chattahoochee’s varsity football team – the only female varsity football player in Fulton County – she also hopes to once again play for Chattahoochee’s varsity soccer and track teams. This fall, for every field goal Mohammed scores on Friday nights, Spa Sydell is donating $100 to the Atlanta 2-Day Walk for Breast Cancer. What’s more, her mother is in charge of Chattahoochee’s Breast Cancer Awareness/Pink Out Night Oct. 9, working with volunteer Stephanie Hillman on the football program’s annual event.

Still, Mohammed is not too busy to expand Project Think Pink’s reach. In an effort to keep Kruger’s memory alive at the primary-school level, the organization works with two local elementary schools to nominate one fifth-grader from every class for the “April Kruger Award of Leadership.” Mohammed, Demir and Ferreira choose the winners.

“I am very proud of Cecily for the work she has done with Project Think Pink,” said Tim Corrigan, Chattahoochee’s interim principal. “She has been blessed with special talents and skills and is using them at her full capacity to make a difference at Chattahoochee and our community. For her to capture the essence of servant leadership at such a young age is inspiring. She is a model for all of us to follow.”

Once Mohammed graduates, she hopes younger students will continue the love and passion she has for breast cancer awareness. “We have family friends with younger children, and they want to be involved with Project Think Pink when they get to high school,” she said. It’s safe to say these girls have started a legacy that will live on in the Johns Creek area.

The organization is currently seeking sponsorships and supporters for their upcoming events. If interested, visit them on Facebook (Project THINK PINK), Instagram (@thinkpinkCHS), or Twitter (@we_thinkpink). ■

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A Family Affair

women in business

Mother-daughter duo joins forces for Honey & Hazel Boutique

BY CANDY WAYLOCK

candy@northsidewoman.com

T

he most nerve-wracking moments for Grace Gordy were not the years spent taking a business plan from idea to implementation, or the time spent learning the intricacies of finances to be able to run a business, or even the cascade of decisions regarding what to purchase to draw customers.

It was in the moments right before the doors to Honey & Hazel Boutique finally opened in the fall of 2013; the end point of a dream Grace and her mother, Julie Gordy, had envisioned for more than a decade.

Grace recalled the night before the boutique’s soft opening on North Point Parkway in Alpharetta, when she questioned all the decisions she and her mother had made for their women’s clothing and accessories boutique.

“Thoughts of ‘what if no one comes in, what if we don’t have any sales, who is going to know about us?’ kept running through my mind,” Grace said of her last-minute panic.

In the end, her worries were for nothing. Honey & Hazel Boutique far exceeded Grace and Julie’s expectations for opening day, and continues to thrive two years later as an upscale boutique for unique

16 | northsidewoman.com | october2015

It was in tribute to my grandmother, Emily Hayes, ...She was a sweet Southern woman and called everyone ‘Honey’ and had beautiful hazel eyes...” fashions, handcrafted jewelry and accessories at affordable prices.

For Julie, opening her own business was second nature. She had owned a successful home décor store for years in North Georgia before moving to North Fulton, and she came from a long line of entrepreneurs.

“My mother was an excellent designer and seamstress and my father had multiple companies,” Julie said. “My husband has owned his own businesses all his life and has definitely passed on that gene to my son and daughter, Grace.”

The idea of their own boutique was something mother and daughter had considered for years, but did not pursue seriously until Grace had graduated from college. At the time she was working in Charleston, but moved back to Atlanta to begin planning the opening of Hazel & Honey Boutique.

While most people assume Honey & Hazel refer to the owners, it actually is a tribute to a few of the matriarchs on the Gordy family tree.

“It was in tribute to my grandmother, Emily Hayes, who was 92 and passed away the December that we were starting the store,” Julie explained. “She was a sweet Southern woman and called everyone ‘Honey’ and had beautiful hazel eyes. It also represents the two of us!”

In an area filled with boutiques and shops of every scale and scope, Grace believes the success of Honey & Hazel is the unique offering of items at affordable prices.

“Most everything in our shop is under $60 so you can leave with multiple accessories or outfits instead of just one or two things,” Grace said. “We cater to a vast range of ages, [and customers] can see both my Mom and I wearing the clothes to get an idea of how to find things in style [at any age].”

For Julie, she believes customers like dealing with owners who lives in the community and buying from a locally owned business.

“We also want to make our customers feel like part of our family.

► See WOMEN IN BUSINESS, Page 18

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women in business

▼ WOMEN IN BUSINESS, Continued from Page 16 We try to get to know each and every person that comes through the door. You never know who you might see working with us, like my husband, sister, Grace’s best friends, and fiancé,” Julie said. “They have all pitched in to help us on busy days, which makes it even more fun!”

Working alongside her daughter six days a week is rewarding, but there comes a time when everyone needs a little “me” time.

“For the most part we love working together, but there certainly are times when we need to separate and have

some down time,” Julie said with a laugh.

“Sometimes we each just need a “time out.”

Both women encourage others to pursue their goals, but do their homework if they are thinking of owning a business.

The better the plan, the more likely the business will succeed.

“It was a TON of work!” Grace said, laughing and noting she was thankful for “How to Build a Business Plan for Dummies” in the early days. “There were so many things we had no idea about, like permits and licenses.”

She and her mom spent 12 to 15 hours a day researching every aspect before moving forward with the building plans, selecting a site and merchandising. Now,

pretty in

years removed from the early process, both owners know they made the right moves.

“Owning your own business is a lot of work and sometimes it can be draining, but good days are when customers pay us the sweetest compliments and say

pink

how much they love the store and had the best experience,” Grace said. “That makes everything so worth it.”

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northsideman

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OCTOBER

S

andy Springs resident, Jim Hannan, is the President and CEO of Georgia-Pacific and helps spearhead the Georgia-Pacific Race for the Cure team each year.

Being one of the largest teams at the event for the past several years, Georgia-Pacific has sponsored more than 5,000 race participants since 2008. Through sponsorships and employee and team fundraising, Georgia-Pacific has donated more than $475,000 to Komen Atlanta, which can provide 19,000 life-saving clinical breast exams to Metro Atlantans who otherwise might not have been able to afford them.

A committed supporter of the organization, Hannan has been an active individual partner of Komen Atlanta since 2004. His wife, Susan, serves on the Komen Atlanta board of directors, and together they honor Susan’s mother, who lost her battle with breast cancer.

What is your connection to breast cancer?

My initial connection was through my wife, Susan, whose mother, Jean Flory, battled breast cancer for years before finally succumbing to the disease in 1992. Unfortunately, I never had the opportunity to meet Jean as Susan and I met a few years later, although I know she was a tremendous role model for Susan. Since then, I have learned more about breast cancer, including that one in eight women will deal with the disease in their lifetime. We all know someone that has or is dealing with breast cancer. And, finally, I live in a house full of girls, with three daughters, a niece and Susan, so I have plenty of personal incentive to see this disease eradicated.

20 | northsidewoman.com | october2015

What is your favorite part about your job?

Competition and people. Specifically, I really enjoy seeing teams establish a vision and strategies and then compete and win in our markets by meeting the needs of our customers and consumers.

Explain the craziest thing you’ve ever done for love.

When each of my daughters turns 11, I take them on a long weekend trip of their choice. My middle daughter chose an adventure weekend in Costa Rica during which we went on an “adrenaline” tour that included seven zip lines over ravines, a swing over a ravine, a 40-foot free fall and three rock climbs out of ravines. For a guy that doesn’t love heights or speed, this was about all I could muster. On the platform ledge before the final zip line, the guide asked if I wanted to go upside down … “uh no!”

Name one thing you do every day that you can’t imagine changing.

I really enjoy working out; exercise clears my mind and energizes me.

Jim and Susan Hannan.

What is your guilty pleasure?

I enjoy craft beer. ■

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theinterview

For the love of a

horse Roswell woman finds inspiration to battle breast cancer through rescue

BY CANDY WAYLOCK

candy@northsidewoman.com

T

rouble came into Miaka Palmieri’s life for a reason, and stayed forever.

But unlike the breast cancer she has successfully battled to the curb, this Trouble was welcomed and came in the form of a headstrong donkey who spent his days alone, rejected by all, and slowly giving up on life.

Palmieri has a deep connection with animals. The Roswell resident is the founder and president of the For the Love of a Horse Inc., a rescue organization that has worked to save and rehabilitate injured horses since 2009.

And the lonely donkey who spent his days alone in the corner of a pasture looking out on Highway 20 was breaking her heart.

“Oh my goodness … Trouble gave me a purpose, a challenge,” said Palmieri. “He came into my life for a reason. I needed him as much as he needed me.”

Palmieri knows Trouble reflects her fight against breast cancer, of everything she wanted to do when she was diagnosed in 2013 with the most aggressive form of breast cancer. She wanted to stop the treatment, retreat to a corner and give up the fight, until friends and family begged her to try.

Two years later she is in remission.

“Trouble gave me a reason to get up and get out of the house every single day … if only just to let him know he wasn’t alone and someone cared for him,” Palmieri said of the donkey whose owners handed him off to her not long after her cancer treatments ended.

She grew up in Long Island, New York, married her high school sweetheart, Richie, 25 years ago, and moved to North Fulton in 2000.

Palmieri worked for a time in “corporate America” but realized her time and talents were better spent on her community, and primarily in animal welfare.

22 | northsidewoman.com | october2015

“I’ve always had a love for all creatures great and small,” she said. “My love and first interaction with horses came when my best friend and I would sneak in to the paddocks at Belmont Race Track and pet the horses.”

She was volunteering for a local animal rescue when Gracie limped in with a hurt shoulder and broken leg, most likely caused by a car. ”It was love at first sight,” Palmieri said. “The rescue was going to euthanize her after getting a bad prognosis. We couldn’t let that happen.”

So she and four other volunteers adopted Gracie, sought treatment out of state, raised the money in every way they could, and got the help Gracie needed. And For the Love of a Horse came to be.

“It is because of Gracie, and the need to help other horses like her with critical medical care needs, that we formed FTLOAH,” Palmieri said.

“We felt strongly we could help horses that would otherwise be euthanized because their owners don’t have the money to get them the care they desperately need.”

Four years into her work with FTLOAH, Palmieri got the devastating news that affects about one in every eight women in the United States. Breast cancer. She followed medical advice for an aggressive approach she felt would stop the spread.

“I elected to have a radical double mastectomy to ensure we would remove any possibility of the cancer spreading, and so I wouldn’t have to have chemo or radiation,” Palmieri said.

But lightning struck again just after the surgery in August 2013. She learned she was among the low percentage of women with triple negative breast cancer, a very aggressive, fastmoving form of the disease which required intensive chemotherapy. Palmieri said “no.”

“I was adamant I was NOT going to get

treatment … after all, that’s why I went the radical route,” she said. “My family begged me to reconsider. Time was of the essence. I was holding firm.”

But after years of Palmieri saving the lives of horses, her horses saved her.

“It was not until my brother said to me, ‘Miaka, the horses need you. What would happen to them if you’re not here?’ It was at that moment that I consented to explore getting treatment,” she said.

Two months later, in October 2013, Palmieri began treatment at New York’s Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital, and she is coming up on two years in remission.

Back home, her horses were being tended to by a network of volunteers who filled in the gaps and kept FTLOAH going strong.

After six years, the rescue group has a long list of success stories, and is often the last hope for horses suffering from broken bones, starvation, cancer, old-age issues and a host of other ailments many traditional rescues won’t take on.

“Each situation is different, but they must be ‘critical medical care’ cases. Our organization will arrange and pay for treatments for the equines cases that are approved by our board,” said Palmieri. “No money exchanges hand with the owner, we pay the care provider directly, typically

University of Georgia, Auburn or local vets.”

Vet bills can run many thousands of dollars, so fundraising is an important part of what FTLOAH does to continue its mission. A golf tournament hosted annually by the group, the Fore the Love of a Horse Golf Classic, now in its fourth year, provides many of the funds needed.

While some horses are returned to their owners with the promise of continued welfare checks, some find a permanent place on Palmieri’s farm and further the goals of FTLOAH. “Gracie, Sterling, Bishop, Gambit and Cole will have a forever home with us,” said Palmieri, whose personal menagerie of 14 pets includes horses, donkeys, goats, dogs and cats. “They are used to educate the public and bring joy to all those who visit us or through the visits we make to nursing homes, assisted living centers, etc.”

With cancer in the background, Palmieri says her “perfect days” include breakfast with her family, working with her horses and other animals, and knowing in her heart they are happy and safe. She adds her “typical days” also include mucking out stalls, and lots of cleanup, but everything leads back to a sense of fulfillment.

“Taking care of [my animals] is a powerful way with which to get in touch with thoughts and feelings. They have a unique ability to sense our emotions and they react

accordingly. I’ve been able to work with them to develop trust,” she said. “I am comforted by their gentle, loving and peaceful souls.”

And as for Trouble? He, too, is enjoying a happy ending.

“I’m so proud to say Trouble is now with us in a loving home where he is a spoiled brat,” Palmieri said with a laugh.

For the Love of A Horse future plans: • Continue to raise enough money, through fundraising and grants, to be able to take on more critical care medical cases and help more horses • Expand the community outreach program to include equine therapy, work with at-risk children/young adults • Grow their volunteer program • Continue to educate horse owners and the public about proper equine care and the problems of neglect, abuse and slaughter • Attain a sanctuary property whereby they could house/ care for abused, neglected or unwanted horses to rehabilitate and find proper, loving forever homes for them To find out how you can help For the Love of a Horse, visit the website at www.fortheloveofahorse.org. ■

Palmieri shares a special bond with Trouble who provided her with purpose during her treatments while nursing him back to health. october2015 | northsidewoman.com | 23

Listening for a still, small voice

goodbooks

Author Nanette Littlestone’s journey of F.A.I.T.H. – Finding Answers in the Heart

By KIMBERLY BROCK

J

ohns Creek resident Nanette Littlestone wears many hats. In addition to being an author, editor and publisher, she is CEO of Words of Passion, a website designed to help professional women get published. She is also the creator of a collaborative two-volume effort called F.A.I.T.H. Her inspiring creative journey, however, has been long and winding.

“I never intended to be a writer,” she said. “But in 1994, I was living in Vancouver, Washington, and sitting in my apartment on a Saturday afternoon, minding my own business, when I heard a whisper say F.A.I.T.H. – Finding Answers in the Heart. My first reaction was, ‘What a great title for a book!’

My second reaction was, ‘What do I do with it?’ I’d been on a spiritual journey for many years, but was I listening to my heart? What would I tell people?

And who would read a book written by me? I wasn’t a famous author.”

Littlestone chose to ignore the whisper. Time passed and she joined a writing group and took classes, but she still wasn’t happy with her writing or excited about the prospect of more time stringing together words.

“I’ve started over 20 novels, but it takes determination, persistence and hard work to finish a book, revise and rewrite, and turn out a story worth reading. Writing is thrilling. Writer’s block is not.”

After experiencing a yearlong bout of exactly that, Littlestone was in charge of a writer’s group and working as an editor when she managed to work through her creative slowdown and write a book called “Overcoming Writer’s Block: Moving from Fear to Passion.”

“Some of it is taken from blog posts and some was created from scratch,” she said. “The purpose of the book is to offer tips and exercises to rest the mind and offer new perspectives.”

And a new perspective was exactly what she got. The book led to invitations to contribute her work elsewhere as well as an opportunity to edit a collaborative book, a format that inspired her.

“I knew then that I wanted to offer collaborative books to my clients, giving them the opportunity of publishing in a way that’s cheaper, faster and takes less effort,” Littlestone said, which is how Partner Up! was born. Partner Up! is a book program she created to help women entrepreneurs get published the easy way through books involving other writers.

Littlestone said there are two ways authors can participate in a collaborative book. The first method is for the author to decide on a topic and invite other writers to join him or her on the project. The second approach is for Words of Passion to invite authors to participate in a project.

The F.A.I.T.H. books are a good example of the second method.

Fourteen women (including Littlestone) joined forces on the current two volumes of F.A.I.T.H., women from all walks of life with rich tapestries of experience to call upon to demonstrate their faith and determination.

“When the whisper came back, I had a different vehicle for F.A.I.T.H. It didn’t have to be about me,” she said. “It could be about a lot of women and their stories.”

Littlestone said the purpose of F.A.I.T.H. is to inspire others on similar journeys to awaken to their potential and find answers they have been seeking.

“We all have the answers inside us but many of us haven’t learned to look inside, to trust our inner guidance, to follow our hearts,” she said. “The stories in F.A.I.T.H. share not only the challenges other women have faced but the means to overcome those challenges. People everywhere deserve to be healthier, stronger, more courageous and following their passions.”

24 | northsidewoman.com | october2015

“

I’ve started over 20 novels, but it takes determination, persistence and hard work to finish a book, revise and rewrite, and turn out a story worth reading.

Writing is thrilling.

Writer’s block is not.

”

Her vision for F.A.I.T.H. is to connect with women (and eventually families) around the world and inspire them to reach for their greatness, to achieve their dreams. The other F.A.I.T.H. authors – Azizi Blissett, Terry Crump, Linda Goodman, Suzanne Baker Hogan, Barbara J. Hopkinson, Judy Keating, Rebecca Kirson, Ricia L. Maxie, Corinna Murray, Lynn Rekvig, Lorelei Robbins, Angela Rodriguez and Maureen Roe – would agree.

“I never thought of myself as an inspirational author or publisher,” Littlestone said. “I’m merely sharing my journey with others, and as I cope with and triumph over my issues, I continually look for ways to help others with theirs.”

Getting over her writer’s block and working alongside the other F.A.I.T.H. authors also allowed Littlestone to complete a historical novel, “The Sacred Flame,” which is coming out in October.

“I’m so excited to be publishing my first novel! I’m working on the sequel called ‘Bella Toscana.’

“The joy that I experience in writing, editing and publishing comes from helping my clients to shape their thoughts into stories that capture our emotions. Words evoke feelings. They can make you laugh and cry, feel hope and joy. I love helping to inspire others, to enrich their lives, to give them purpose. If I can do that, then I’m thrilled.”

For more information about Littlestone, Words of Passion, Partner Up! and F.A.I.T.H., go to www.wordsofpassion.com. ■

october2015 | northsidewoman.com | 25

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Medical hair enhancements can aid in recovery

C

ancer does not respect the patient.

It strikes the young and old, and it knows no socio-economical differences. In the United States, everyone knows someone who has cancer, someone who succumbed to cancer, AND someone who has beaten cancer.

It is well known that, when a person is battling cancer, a positive mental attitude can help with recovery. And, if patients are able to feel good about the way they look, positive attitudes frequently follow. When women or girls lose their hair due to the effects of chemotherapy, there are many options for temporary hair replacements until their own hair grows back. “Top of the head” wigs, halo wigs and hair attached to hats or scarves are some of the popular options.

Kelli Christie, Georgia native and owner of Illuminations by Borrelli’s Salon in Alpharetta, specializes in “medical hair

enhancements.” Christie, who originally wanted to be a nurse, chose cosmetology instead. Shortly after opening Borrelli’s Salon nine years ago, she had three clients diagnosed with cancer in the same week and soon found a way to help her customers while fulfilling her desire to somehow be involved in the medical community.

By providing medical-grade wigs for those dealing with thinning hair or hair loss, Christie offers a variety of options for cancer patients and people suffering from alopecia, a type of hair loss that occurs when a person’s immune system attacks the hair follicles. The first time she meets a client who expects to experience hair loss through cancer treatment, they talk about options for hair enhancements.

“Many women want to cut and use their own hair,” she said. “We can cut the hair, but we can only use it before their first chemo treatment. The hair is affected by the chemotherapy and will not be strong enough or in good enough condition to use.”

According to Christie, some of the types of wigs available for people who have complete hair loss include: True synthetic wigs which are usually created in short hairstyles. The curl has memory so it is easy to wash and care for. Synthetic wigs are heat sensitive.

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herstyle

I just want to feel like me.”

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“Don’t use this type of wig if you do a lot of cooking,” Christie said. “These wigs can be damaged by the heat that escapes from a hot oven when opening the door.”

Heat-defiant synthetic wigs are very popular for their relatively affordable price (cheaper than wigs made with human hair) and heat resistance. People can cook while wearing the heat-defiant wigs and use blow dryers on them after washing.

Heat-defiant and human-hair blends are wigs that feel like human hair but are more affordable than human-hair wigs. They tend to last longer and don’t fray as easily on the ends.

Human-hair wigs are hand tied to silk caps and take multiple heads of hair to create. “Generally, people who have had long hair tend to go with this one,” Christie added, noting they do a lot of color work to match the color of the customer’s own hair. These medical-grade wigs can be made up in as little as two days.

“I just want to feel like me.”

Brittany Atkinson, an Alpharetta mother of three in her 30s, experienced the personalized hair-enhancement service from Illuminations firsthand. Atkinson was diagnosed with breast cancer in February 2014. In preparation for the inevitable hair loss she would experience, she allowed her young daughter to cut her hair. “Reese was all too happy to do it, “Atkinson said with a laugh.

While she credits faith, friends and family for helping her maintain her spunky and fun attitude, Atkinson felt a wig would help her feel more normal during the series of cancer treatments. “I just wanted to feel like me,” she said.

“I didn’t work outside the home, so when I was in my house, I didn’t wear anything. After a while, I identified with being bald. I would wear scarves to pick up the kids from school. When I went to church or to the store, I would wear my wig. It helped me feel anonymous. Like a normal human being.”

Atkinson chose a full human-hair wig that was styled so close to her own hair color and length that many people who knew her before her treatments had no idea she was completely bald underneath.

“There’s a huge difference in price, but it was totally worth it.” Some insurance plans can defray the cost of medical hair enhancements.

A tender mercy still touches Atkinson’s heart when she talks about her wigs. Two teenage girls from her church donated their hair and created a halo wig that was attached to a cute hat. Since both of the girls’ names are Madison, Atkinson called it her “Maddie” wig. She loved the auburn

color and the ease of slipping on the cap in a minute’s notice. As a friend wrote on Atkinson’s Caring Bridge journal entry of the gift, it was “an example of pain recycled into tangible products of love.”

The girls used the website www. hatswithhair.com. The service has become so popular it has spawned another website, www.chemodiva.com. There are many types of swim caps with hair as well as sassy ponytails with sweatbands attached that are available for women and girls who want to look fun and fashionable even while receiving chemo treatments or dealing with alopecia.

Atkinson is finished with her treatments and her own hair is growing back. She keeps her long, blonde wig as a reminder, and in case her cancer returns.

“I see it every day in my bathroom on its Styrofoam head. I laugh that I don’t have to wear it anymore.”

Want to donate your hair?

Atkinson and Christie favor www. childrenwithhairloss.us as a site for people interested in donating hair. The organization does not charge for the wigs they give to children with hair loss. ■ As a personal wardrobe consultant and owner of Alpharetta-based Fashion With Flair, Lori Wynne helps people look their best.

Contact her at fashionwithflair.com.

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An emotional connection to art

women in art

Milton artist believes in the ‘healing power’ of paintings

BY CANDY WAYLOCK

candy@northsidewoman.com

T

he abstract paintings that encompass much of Isabelle’s Gautier’s portfolio reflect her need for viewers to see beyond the colors and the lines on the canvas, and to tap into something deep inside themselves.

“My abstract work is more driven by the need to share emotions and bring people to see with another eye, to feel something different,” explained the Milton artist, whose work is found in galleries across the country. “My paintings are a reminder that there is much more beyond the limits of our daily lives that is worth discovering, a spiritual dimension to each of us.”

In her Flower Collection, she paints from an energy derived from groupings of flowers that have a sense of tranquility and calm.

Gautier believes the arts have a strong healing power, not only for the artists but for those who view it.

“I paint the flowers theme more for peace and personal comfort,” Gautier said. “Studies have shown that flowers have a positive impact on emotional health, stimulate the memory and create subtle harmony in the body and soul.

I hope their subtle energy gives positive and healing vibes.”

Her entire Flower Collection will be on display during the Atlanta Fine Home Sotheby’s International Realty show in October to benefit breast cancer awareness and research. While her other works, including landscapes, will also be on display, she says the Flower Collection is appropriate for the cause.

“Like many of us, we know or have known friends or family members who have been touched by breast cancer, and breast cancer

30 | northsidewoman.com | october2015

awareness is a cause very close to my heart,” said Gautier. “I am happy to contribute, even modestly.”

She has been an artist all of her life, beginning in her native France, and memories of her childhood there serve as inspirations for all her landscape paintings. She and her family moved to North Fulton in late 1999, following the wave of people who discovered everything the area offered.

“We chose Alpharetta/Milton for its proximity to Atlanta, the quality of schools and housing, and the beautiful countryside,” said Gautier, whose two children are now adults off on their own. “The horse farms and green, rolling hills remind me of my native region of Normandy. I love it here.”

While she took some art classes in high school, followed by a year of formal training at L’Ecole des Beaux Arts in Paris, Gautier considers herself a “self-taught” artist. Her real training was done through experimenting with materials, tools and methods, even creating her own palette knives.

“Since childhood, I have always painted and played with colors and compositions,” she said. “It was always recreational with no purpose other than pleasure and self-development.

She compares herself to an athlete who needs to run and exercise every day to not only feel complete, but to keep challenging herself to do more.

“Painting is such a personal endeavor.

It has been my lifesaving daily meditation,” Gautier said. “I am simply a person who can’t stop re-creating, re-imagining and re-inventing every day and every time I look at or do anything.”

Becoming a commercial success was secondary to her need to create, and she credits her husband for encouraging her to think of herself as an artist. The first painting she sold was to friends who commissioned her even before she created a business.

“It largely contributed to my confidence,” Gautier recalled. “It was a large, five-canvas painting to decorate their high ceiling foyer.

Every sold painting is a recognition for the artist. It means a communication has been established.”

Since then she has become a highly sought-after artist, with pieces in galleries all over the United States, primarily in the Southeast. Gautier works out of her basement

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“I like to open my home to friends, art lovers, gallery owners, existing and future collectors to see my paintings,” she said. “I always have at least 100 paintings to show at all times.”

The scope of the paintings, done over a period of time, reveals her entire body of work, allowing viewers to understand her art and its evolution.

She says art lovers around the world share a common appreciation of quality art, but she has found differences between American and European consumers. She is amused by the “growing art market focused on matching your paintings with your sofa,” which is uniquely American.

“Art is, as always, in the eye of the beholder,” said Gautier. “[But] overall, I think most French people would trust their own artistic tastes more than many Americans who ‘outsource’ it to professional designers and decorators.”

Her advice to the novice collector is simply “trust yourself.”

“Appreciation for art is extremely relative and subjective. Each person understands and ‘feels’ a painting with its own experience and sensitivity,” she said. “If a painting brings you happiness, it is a good painting and brings joy and beauty to your environment and daily life.”

For more information on Isabelle Gautier, or to find gallery locations, visit her website at www.IsabelleGautiersArt.com ■

october2015 | northsidewoman.com | 31

herstyle

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orth Atlanta is a hub for trendy-yet-refined interior decor. With plenty of brick and mortar stores to choose from, the difficult part is picking which styles best reflect your personality and taste. Below, experts offer their views on the staples and fads.

When is Less Truly More?

T

he expression "less is more" is frequently used by designers.

What truly defines less? There are many things to be considered when adopting this approach, exchanging cluttered and disorganized spaces for simplicity, functionality along with great style is something a designer can assist even the most reluctant client with. In my earlier years, I was referred to as a dense designer. I was able to place many pieces of furniture and art objects into limited spaces and took pride in my ability to do so.

Over the years my thoughts and opinions on what is less and what is more has changed considerably. I do prefer less, let's begin with those built in book cases which flank fire places perhaps several in many homes. The past trend was to fill the maximum of evenly spaced shelves to the point of being cluttered with books of no distinction, artificial pots of ivy, trinkets

32 | northsidewoman.com | october2015

from nowhere in particular and scattered, indiscriminately framed photos. I suggest eliminating some of the shelving and painting the back panels. This creates a subtle contrast when painted with a shade darker color than the walls in the room covering them with a textured paper, such as grass cloth also looks great. Hang larger paintings, mirrors, architectural elements or photos on the back panels in the space made available by removing shelves. Staggering the shelf placement allows for showcasing single statement objects of art, while semidry is important mirroring one side against the other lacks interest and creativity.

Another "less is more" consideration is accomplished by removing those objects which often cover every inch of a side or coffee table. One perfectly placed accessory is elegant. Here is a great example of our topic, sofas and chairs piled with so many pillows does become

uninviting causing hosts to often toss them "more to less" upon the floor before their guests while encouraging them to sit.

The china cabinet displaying wedding china, crystal and "more" mementos from other occasions is certainly a place where "less" needs to be seen. Simply remove the china hutch or replace it with a sideboard to store the china and crystal. Placing lamps on the sideboard or buffet and hanging a stunning work of art or mirror on the wall above it is truly "more".

It would be easy for a good designer to move from one room to another in your home and suggest ways to create less, allowing you to see and appreciate more. The difficult question you may ask yourself is whether you are ready for "less" making your home "more". â–

Peter Benedetto, an accomplished Interior Designer with Tuscany Fine Furnishings, Offering Life Style Fine Furnishings, Decorative Accessories and Design Services for Every Room in Your Home! 1570 Holcomb Bridge Rd. in Roswell, 770-993-0640 ext. 2, 15,000 sq. ft.

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770-993-0640 october2015 | northsidewoman.com | 33

herview

All three sisters are survivors C

Race for the Cure team.

umming resident Courtney Beach and her two sisters have all battled breast cancer in some way. In 2011, at the age of 35, Courtney’s sister Kate was diagnosed with breast cancer. She received chemotherapy and underwent a double mastectomy as part of her treatment. Since Kate’s doctor thought there could be a potential genetic component to her cancer, Courtney and their other sister, Kelly, both received mammograms. Courtney later had an MRI as an extra precaution.

In 2012, Courtney was diagnosed with breast cancer and had a double mastectomy and received chemotherapy as part of her treatment plan. Later, Kelly underwent a preventative mastectomy to help reduce her risk of breast cancer.

Courtney and her sisters learned so much through their individual journeys with breast cancer, including how important it is to have choices – in treatments as well as recoveries.

As Courtney said, “While you may not have chosen to have breast cancer, you can choose how you want to be treated.” Today, all three sisters are survivors. And now that they are on the other side of breast cancer, they want to give back to help others in their community. Courtney and her sisters raise funds for Susan G. Komen Greater Atlanta through Race for the Cure so that everyone in Metro Atlanta has the opportunity to detect and survive breast cancer. To learn more about Komen Atlanta, visit www.komenatlanta. org. ■

(From left to right) sisters, Courtney Beach, Kelly Price, and Kate Hegidio.

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34 | northsidewoman.com | october2015

Announcing

The 3rd Annual Appen Media Group

Best of the Best

Red Carpet Awards Gala

November 12th 2015 • 5:30 - 9:30 • The Metropolitan Club Does dinner provided by some of the best restaurants in N. Atlanta, custom cocktails, live music, dancing, and rubbing elbows with dignitaries and some of the top business owners and in out market sound like fun to you?!

Join us as we celebrate the winners of the

2015 Appen Media Group Best of the Best contest.

Table for 10 - $400 • Tickets - $50 each E-mail Wendy@AppenMediaGroup.com for tickets or sponsorship information Cocktail Attire - Black Tie Optional

october2015 | northsidewoman.com | 35

takefive

TA

FIVE non-invasive cosmetic treatments N K

E

id t fi v e n o r

5

e hs as & ide tip s for w o men

oninvasive treatments are leading the way in aesthetic medicine. These procedures are giving us the option to choose how we want to manage the changes in our faces and bodies that occur with aging.

There are so many options today for patients wanting to look more rested and refreshed, hoping to delay cosmetic surgery a few years, or just interested in trying other options rather than surgery.

Before going under the knife, patients have a few alternatives for non-invasive and preventative skincare treatments.

Basic skin care. First and foremost, I always tell patients that I would rather see them spend their money on improving their skin. My favorites, which are clinically proven to improve the skin texture and protect the skin, are topical vitamin C, Retin-A and a zinc- and titanium-based sunblock.

Neurotoxins such as Botox, Dysport and Xeomin.

These help to improve wrinkles between the brows, around the eyes, forehead and bunny lines, as well as lifting the corners of the mouth and improving neck bands. Neurotoxins can be injected to look very natural and reflect a more rested appearance.

Hyaluronic acid fillers such as Juvederm XC, Voluma,

Restylane Silk and Restylane Lyft. These fillers can plump anything from fine lines to deflated cheeks. You can expect to see result rights away and, soon after, results seem to improve. This treatment achieves very natural results.

Ulthera. Heated ultrasound is used to stimulate collagen in the layer of tissue covering the muscle. This treatment is ideal for the patient not quite needing a facelift but seeing early signs of jowling, eyelid drooping and sagging neck skin, sometimes called “turkey neck.”

CoolSculpting. This procedure’s purpose is to target smaller pockets of fat. Although CoolSculpting isn’t new to the aesthetic scene, there is a new type of applicator, via ZELTIQ Aesthetics, called a CoolMini. The new FDA-cleared applicator has been designed to target areas such as the chin (double chin) to freeze stubborn fat and contour without any downtime. ■ Tracey Gregory FNP-BC is an expert injector/trainer for physicians, nurse practitioners, physicians assistants and nurses in the aesthetic application of the above services.

Contact her through the Aesthetic Specialty Centre. www.asc-psd.com • 770.993.9000 1825 Old Alabama Road, Suite 201, Roswell, GA 30076

1800 Northside Forsyth Dr, Suite 380, Cumming, GA 30041

We offer a full spectrum of GYN services: • Adult and pediatric gynecology • Comprehensive well woman exam

Kind, Compassionate & Skilled Care Reproductive Surgical Specialists is a full-service practice that specializes in the diagnosis, management and treatment of female reproductive abnormalities in patients ages 8 and up.

Our board-certified physician, Dr. Carla Roberts, brings over two decades of experience as a reproductive specialist, gynecologist and endocrinologist, and offers both surgical and non-surgical services in a soothing and elegant environment.

36 | northsidewoman.com | october2015

Including additional expertise in: • Pelvic reconstruction of uterus, tubes, ovaries, cervix, vagina and labia • Endometriosis/pelvic pain • Fibroid surgery Other comprehensive women’s services

Call Today:

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Do You DREAD Going to the DENTIST? OUR Patients Do Not!

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Dr. R. David Remaley

“If I could make a trophy like they do in show biz, it would be for the first Dentist I not only have not dreaded to come see, but furthermore the First Dentist I actually look forward to my visits with! You are a true diamond and your work is far above and unmatched by anyone.

You are not just a dentist doing dentures, but a true artist with your skills. I am so happy that You are MY DENTIST!” ~Sarah Stroud

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We have been dedicated to treating patients like family for over 25 years... your comfort and satisfaction is our main concern.

Welcoming New Patients... Exceeding Expectations october2015 | northsidewoman.com | 37

woman's best friend

Ask the Vet

Cancers in animals, although sometimes similar to those in humans, can have significant differences.

A

s people and animals in America less often succumb to infectious metabolic disease and thus live longer, cancer is seen more often in both humans and their furry friends. Cancers in animals, although sometimes similar to those in humans, can have significant differences. Bone cancer (osteosarcoma), which, in human medicine, is most often seen in young men and boys, conversely occurs in elderly and middleaged larger breed dogs. Primary lung cancer, a more common issue in people, is actually uncommon in dogs, cats and horses. Mast cell tumors in the skin, extremely common tumors in dogs, are virtually nonexistent in man. Melanoma, a highly aggressive tumor in humans, regardless of site, is only an issue in the mouth and digits of canines.

In animals, breed or species have an influence on the type of cancer we see. This is due to genetic influences.

Cats and dogs with long noses commonly get nasal cancer, whereas dogs with short noses are more prone to brain tumors. Golden retrievers have replaced boxers as the breed most likely to develop cancer and have high numbers of lymphatic and bone cancer. German shepherds and Labrador retrievers are highly prone to

ADOP T ME blood vessel cancer.

Environmental and lifestyle issues can increase cancer risk or worsen survival times in all species.

Cigarette smoke has long been known to increase the risk for lymphatic and mouth cancer in dogs and cats. In Scottish terriers, a breed predisposed to bladder tumors, lawn chemicals increase risk. Obesity in pets, which is estimated to afflict 50 to 60 percent of dogs and cats in the U.S., also elevates risk for multiple cancers.

Please consult your veterinarian for risk factors pertaining to your pet. Loving Hands Animal Clinic manages both conventional and integrative therapies for pets with cancer, including surgery, pain management, chemotherapy, herbal therapies, acupuncture, chiropractic and nutritional plans. ■ Dr. JoAnne Roesner, 13775 Hwy 9 Alpharetta, GA 30004 770-667-9022 Loving Hands Animal Clinic & Pet Resort www.lovinghands.com

Visit our website for more information.

www.fostercares.org

PET OF THE MONTH: SUMMER

S

ummer may have changed to fall, but this sweet kitty named Summer will keep sunshine around all year long. She is a very young cat, with the sweetest disposition and lovely green eyes and soft gray fur. Summer loves to play – with her human or with her toys (string toys are her very favorite!) – and gets along well with other cats and kittens. Summer is ready to find her forever home. She is house-trained, spayed and current on all vaccinations, and her adoption fee includes combo test, microchip, flea prevention and deworming. To bring Summer into your home, visit Angels Among Us Pet Rescue at www. angelsrescue.org/adopt, or send an email to catinquiry@ angelsrescue.org. ■

She Gives Back Do you know a woman who loves to volunteer? Tell us your suggestion of a woman that gives back and what she does for the community. She could be featured in an upcoming issue of Northside Woman!

Northside Woman is all about celebrating and connecting the amazing women who live in the North Fulton and South Forsyth communities of Alpharetta, Roswell, Milton, Johns Creek and Cumming – helping you get to know your neighbors and build business and social networks which allow women to support and encourage each other.

wants to hear from you!!

Please share your story ideas with our staff by emailing Editor Taylor Wright at taylor@northsidewoman.com.

38 | northsidewoman.com | october2015

october2015 | northsidewoman.com | 39

goodlovin’

with Dr. Cathy

The Cohabitation of C

Cancer and Sex

ancer … a word no one wants to hear or even talk about, but it is unfortunately a large part of our reality and personally affects many individuals. It can alter so much – your energy, appearance and attitude. And it also can have a major impact on your sex life.

Although not usually mentioned together, these two highly impactful and often taboo topics may intertwine at some point.

If and when they do for you, what can you expect to happen in your sex life? Everybody and every diagnosis is of course different, so there is not a clear answer to this question. However, it is important to be aware of the sexual side effects cancer treatments may have on your body.

For many, cancer protocols may not have any effect, but for others treatments may take a fundamental toll. Let’s unpack a few common experiences many may have throughout the duration of cancer treatments.

Low energy/fatigue: This sounds very general, but cancer treatments take so much out of your body and it really creates a feeling far beyond any tired you have ever endured. The lethargy possibly may improve after treatments are complete, but many experience extreme fatigue for up to a year.

Body image: Cancer can many times affect your outward appearance, but

sometimes even if there are no changes physically, the treatments can still create a change in the way you feel about your body, which could make you feel less sexual.

Change in hormones: Certain types of cancer can alter the amount of hormones in the body including, in many cases, sex hormones. Therefore, our desire for sex may be drastically decreased.

If negative changes happen to occur sexually during and/or after cancer treatment, it does not have to be permanent. Inform your partner, physician and therapist about any concerns.

Your health is the most important thing, so make sure it is being talked about. Different cancers and different treatments may or may not cause sexual side effects so make sure to stay educated and aware of what is happening with your body.

To learn more about Dr. Cathy or to schedule a consultation, please visit www. cathymd.com or call 1.844.DRCATHY Dr. Cathy’s book “The Soul of Success: Volume 2,” co-authored with Jack Canfield, is NOW AVAILABLE. Successful entrepreneurs and professionals reveal strategies for getting to the foundation of health, wealth and success.

You may also find her on the following social media: • Twitter: @drcathymdtweets • Facebook: facebook.com/drcathymd • Instagram: instagram/drcathymdpics ■

Dr. Cathy is a board-certified physician with emphasis in the treatment of sexual dysfunction triggered or related to hormonal imbalances.

She specializes in holistic and integrative medicine while offering counseling for couples with relationship and intimacy concerns.

40 | northsidewoman.com | october2015

Greater Health, Greater Sex!

Introducing the O-Shot!

The O-Shot is a completely natural procedure utilizing your own growth factors found in your blood and provides vaginal and clitoral rejuvenation, which activates the female orgasm system. It’s virtually painless and can be performed in as little as an hour.

• Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (LowDesire) • Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (difficulty finding the pleasure of arousal) • Female Orgasmic Disorder (become aroused but difficulty with orgasm) • Dyspareunia (suffers real pain with sex)

Dr. Cathy Emeruwa,MD

Board Certified Family Medicine Accept Most Insurances

1-844-DRCATHY CathyMD.com

ALPHARETTA: 3755 Marconi Drive Ste 108 BUCKHEAD: 3115 Piedmont Road Ste F101 FAIRBURN: 7794 Ella Lane Suite G

Alternative Holistic Medicine • Wellness • Male and Female Sexual Disorders • Counseling Medical Weight Loss • Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy • Chelation • IV Vitamin Therapy ...and more october2015 | northsidewoman.com | 41

todo

1

7th Annual Boo Y’all Scarecrow Event Celebrating “Fall in North Fulton,” Arts and Humanities Month and Roswell’s creative spirit, Visit Roswell is coordinating the 7th Annual Boo Y’all Scarecrow Event and Contest. Everyone is invited to participate. There is no entry fee, and cash prizes will be awarded by the Historic Roswell Merchants Association and Visit Roswell. Scarecrows must be in place by Oct. 1. For entry forms and exact specifications, contact the Roswell CVB at call 770-640-3253 or

CT BER World’s Hoppiest 5K Road Race and After Party in Crabapple 6 p.m. Part of the Run and See Georgia Grand Prix Series, the World’s Hoppiest 5K Race begins at 8 p.m., starting and stopping at the Olde Blind Dog Irish Pub in Crabapple. The party begins at 6 p.m. and includes live music and plenty of food and drink. $30 pre-registration online at www.active.com. More details at www.worldshoppiest5K.com.

19th Annual Historic Roswell 5K 9:45 a.m. This race precedes the 65th Roswell Woman’s Club Showcase Home Tour annual Frances McGahee Youth Day Oct. 2-4 and Oct. 9-11; 10 a.m.-5 Parade. This annual p.m. Friday and Saturday, noon-5 p.m. race begins on Mimosa Boulevard near Sunday. Roswell Woman’s Club Home of the front of Roswell United Methodist Distinction Tour by ETB Homes, 5291 Lake Church and ends in Roswell Area Park.

Forrest Drive, Atlanta, (Sandy Springs) Participants will receive a colorful, quality, 30342. $20 admission online and at the long-sleeve T-shirt at the finish. door; $18 RWC members. www.active.com. roswellwomansclub.org

2

fberna@roswellgov.com

3

Crabapple Fest 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Crabapple Fest combines two popular events, the Milton Roundup and the Crossroads at Crabapple Antique and Arts Festival.

Antiques and art from hundreds of juried vendors, a music and entertainment stage with local and touring acts, games, rides and activities for kids and beer and wine in the festival grounds. www.crabapplefest.com Scarecrow Harvest in Alpharetta 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Over 100 scarecrows stand tall and proud along the streets of downtown Alpharetta, inspiring fall spirit!

A family street party that offers a farmers market, groovy music, free hayrides, quirky face painting, artsy activities and delicious food. Milton Avenue, downtown Alpharetta. www.awesomealpharetta.com Alpharetta Brew Moon Octoberfest 6:30 – 11 p.m. Downtown Alpharetta comes alive for this event featuring brew, wine and delicious food from some of Alpharetta’s best restaurants. $10 tickets.

Group tables available for purchase.

Milton Avenue, downtown Alpharetta. www.awesomealpharetta.com Big Creek Park Mountain Bike Family Festival 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Held on National Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day, activities will include bike games, group rides, skills clinics, bike demonstrations and a scavenger hunt with =prizes. Meet at Big Creek parking lot off of Old Alabama Road. www.rambo-mtb.org

10

Johns Creek Fall Family Festival 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Music, games, activities, arts and crafts, inflatables, farmers market and more. Newtown Park, 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek. www.johnscreekga.gov

42 | northsidewoman.com | october2015

65th Annual Frances McGahee Youth Day Parade in Roswell 10 a.m. The Youth Day Parade begins at First Baptist Church on Mimosa Boulevard and ends at Roswell Area Park, 10495 Woodstock Road, Roswell, followed by a Youth Festival featuring entertainment, activities and a free lunch, while supplies last, to youth under 15. Concessions available for adults. www.roswellgov.com 11th Annual Bark & Boogie Ball 6 p.m.-midnight. Help support animals in need of a home at the 11th annual Bark & Boogie Ball at the Lanier Tech Conference Center, 7745 Majors Road, Cumming.

Sponsored by the Humane Society of Forsyth County No-Kill Shelter. www.bbb.forsythpets.org.

11

Polo for Parkinson’s 1 p.m. In addition to a rousing polo match, the 8th Annual Polo for Parkinson’s will also have lunch provided by ‘Cue BBQ, an open bar (beer, wine and champagne), a silent auction, raffles, champagne divot stomp and a “Best Hat” contest. So dust off those divot-stomping shoes and join us to party for a good cause, polo style! www.poloforparkinsons.com

15

Wire and Wood Songwriters Festival Free kickoff event at Avalon Oct. 15; Festival in downtown Alpharetta Oct. 16, 6-10 p.m. and Oct. 17, 3-10 p.m.

In its third year, Alpharetta’s Wire and Wood Songwriters Festival expands into a three-day event. Over 30 nationally recognized singer-songwriters will gather for three days of concerts on three stages to perform original songs. Music lovers will get a behind-the-scenes look at the stories that inspired country, rock, blues, Americana and bluegrass songs from veteran songsmiths as well as local upand-coming talent. www.wireandwoodalpharetta.com

17

Johns Creek Arts Festival

10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Ready, set and shop on the green space across from the Atlanta Athletic Club in Johns Creek. Talented artisans will exhibit paintings, pottery, metalwork, folk art, glass, jewelry, yard art and more, Featuring live entertainment and an energetic Kids’ Zone. 1930 Bobby Jones Drive, Johns Creek. johnscreekartfest.splashfestivals.com

18

Harvest on the Hooch at Chattahoochee Nature Center 1-4 p.m. Raise funds for the Chattahoochee Nature Center’s Unity Garden by celebrating farm to table with a garden party tasting event featuring top-notch restaurants, live bluegrass music and Southern-style fun. Local wine and beer will be served. The event also includes garden games, scavenger hunt, face painting, hula-hooping and more. $40 for adults, $15 for kids. Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell. www.chattnaturecenter.org

21

“Women Who Walk the Walk Beyond Their Comfort Zone” 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Join the Alpharetta Chamber for their biannual luncheon. Bring a new or nearly new winter accessory (scarf, gloves, hat, etc.) to donate to North Fulton Community Charities so all women can walk the walk.

Enjoy an afternoon of networking as well as an inspirational presentation by guest speaker Allison Moran, CEO of Racetrac Petroleum Inc. $45 preregistration, $50 at the door. The Metropolitan Club, 5895 Windward Parkway, Alpharetta. Contact Lillian Morgado, lillian@alpharettachamber.com

23

Alpharetta Symphony Orchestra Performance 7-8:30 p.m., Avalon. Join the Alpharetta Symphony Orchestra for an outdoor performance at Avalon, 2200 Avalon Boulevard, Alpharetta. www.alpharettasymphony.com 30th Annual Halloween Hikes 7-9 p.m. nightly, including Friday, Oct. 23, Saturday, Oct. 24 and Friday, Oct. 30. For a unique Halloween adventure, take your child on a well-lit hike through the forest to meet woodland creatures and hear about their lives. It’s the perfect nonscary alternative to traditional Halloween events and a fundraiser for Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell. Cost: $9 per person, ages 2-and-under free. chattnaturecenter.org

24

Atlanta Eats Live 5-10 p.m. Attendees will eat and drink from 40 hand-picked restaurants and enjoy great live music and cooking demonstrations. A portion of the evening’s proceeds will benefit Atlanta Eats’ chief charitable organization, The Giving Kitchen. Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park, 2200 Encore Parkway, Alpharetta. atlantaeatslive.com

26

4th Annual Foster Cares Kids Classic The annual golf tournament supporting Foster Care Support Foundation, which provides free clothing, infant equipment and developmental toys to thousands of children in foster and relative care, will be at White Columns Country Club, 300 Clubhouse Drive, Milton. www.fostercares.org

29

“Doctor Faustus” at Cumming Playhouse

8 p.m. Performances continue through Nov. 1. Reprising a performance the Marlowe Society of America called “one of the most dynamic ever seen at the Shakespeare Tavern,” Resurgens Theatre Company brings Marlowe’s timeless tragedy of forbidden knowledge and devilish ambition to the Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming.

Purchase $15 tickets at www.playhousecumming.com

30

Mother/Son Halloween Dance 7-9 p.m. Moms, get your son and costumes ready for this spooky holiday dance! Dancing, music, games, prizes, refreshments, picture opportunities and lots of fun! Costumes are not required.

All boys and their mothers, grandmothers or mother figures are welcome. All ages. Bill Johnson Community Activity Building, 10495 Woodstock Road, Roswell.

Cost: $12, residents; $18, non-residents www.roswellgov.com

5

Looking ahead to November

Book Festival of the MJCCA The 24th annual book festival of the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta will include an exciting lineup of the year's most exceptional authors, celebrities and influencers. MJCCA, 5342 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody www.atlantajcc.org

7

Carl Black Presents Kicks 101.5 Country Fair 2015 5 p.m. Concert featuring Tim McGraw, Rascal Flatts, Chris Janson, and Chase Bryant. Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park, 2200 Encore Parkway, Alpharetta. www.vzwamp.com

14

PurpleStride 2015 9:30 a.m. PurpleStride, the signature event of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, will take participants on a lovely route at Centennial Olympic Park. Pancreatic cancer survivors, families, friends and supporters are invited The walk will be followed by family-friendly festivities in the park. Centennial Olympic Park, 265 Park Ave W NW, Atlanta. purplestride.kintera.org

october2015 | northsidewoman.com | 43

Are you in the C l ique?

Sign up for The Chick Clique Health & Wellness Network Discounts • Events • VIP Access

When you’re part of the Clique, you’ll get access to special offers and discounts from area businesses. You’ll receive monthly e-blast health promotions full of recipes, physician profiles and valuable information to help you stay on track to becoming the healthiest you can be. You’re also invited to join our monthly health and wellness events where we will explore health and wellness topics and have fun too!

Visit CheckUpForChicks.com 44 | northsidewoman.com | october2015