W Delaware County Women's Journal Oct/Nov/Dec 2013 by Arnaldo DePaula

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Latest Advances In Eye Surgery To Delaware

Dr. Jeffrey Minkovitz Brings The

By: Jeffrey B. Minkovitz, M.D.

he field of Ophthalmology over time has provided wonderful opportunities to improve patients’ health and well being. The confluence of medicine and technology in our era has spawned numerous innovations which have revolutionized eye care. These advancements

have dramatically improved outcomes for patients, at a pace never before experienced. While previous standards strived for visual rehabilitation, now vision enhancement, comfort, and rapid recovery are the new benchmarks. Technology has played a key role in the progress of all of medicine, but in few areas are these advances as dramatic as they are in ophthalmology. Several key areas are noteworthy: cataract and corneal surgery, refractive surgery, diagnostic testing, and medical therapies for glaucoma and macular degeneration. Cataract surgery dates to the 5th century BC when early practitioners pushed cloudy lenses aside. It wasn’t until the 1700s that cataracts were actually removed, and not until the 1940s that intra-ocular

lenses were first implanted. Now, high quality implants improve vision to levels often better than ever, and may correct astigmatism and improve reading and distance vision, reducing the need for glasses. Newer, safer machines aid in the removal of cataracts, and now laser cataract surgery is on the horizon. Corneal transplantation has been successfully performed since the 1950s, but recent developments in the last decade have made tremendous improvements both in visual success and transplant survival. DSAEK and DALK are two very new, less invasive procedures, which are now available in Delaware. Refractive surgery, and in particular laser vision correction, is perhaps one of the most “high profile” advancements in

ophthalmology. Combining laser precision, rapid recovery, and desirable results, laser vision correction has allowed millions of patients to reduce their need for glasses. Available since FDA approval in 1995, the procedure has evolved and become safer and more accurate and effective. Finally, new diagnostic instruments, incorporating the latest technology in high resolution scanning and computer analysis have allowed better monitoring and treatment of diseases. New medications have allowed ophthalmologists to arrest the progression of vision stealing glaucoma and macular degeneration, two devastating diseases which are the leading causes of blindness in the United States. This is truly an exciting time to practice medicine, and Ophthalmology, in particular. Patients can now look forward to preserving, and even enhancing, their vision, where previously there may have been limited success. Jeffrey Minkovitz, MD is an ophthalmologist with Eye Physicians and Surgeons in Wilmington, Delaware. Dr. Minkovitz specializes in cataract and refractive surgery, and is one of only a few Delaware surgeons specially trained in corneal transplantation. He completed a cornea and refractive surgery fellowship at the renowned Wilmer Eye Institute of Johns Hopkins. Previously, he graduated magna

cum-laude from Harvard, earned his medical degree from the University of Massachusetts, completed internship at Harvard’s Mt. Auburn Hospital, and served his ophthalmology residency at Washington University. Dr. Minkovitz participated in the early research on Excimer Laser refractive surgery, and has offered this procedure to Delawareans since FDA approval in 1996, before Delaware had its own laser. These early pioneering individuals travelled to Wilmer Institute with Dr. Minkovitz, where he maintained his teaching and clinical appointment. In addition to introducing laser vision correction to Delaware, he also introduced NearVision CK to eliminate reading glasses, DSAEK (a newer, less invasive type of corneal transplant) and most recently the newest advance: laser cataract surgery. Dr. Minkovitz is a cofounder of the Center for Advanced Surgical Arts and serves on its medical advisory board. He is also on active staff at Christiana Care. While on staff of Wilmer at Johns Hopkins University, Dr. Minkovitz received the Outstanding Teacher award. He was also named Top Doc in ophthalmology by Delaware Today Magazine six consecutive years, and has been an invited instructor at American Academy of Ophthalmology Annual Meetings.

For further information or to schedule an appointment please call 302-656-2020 extension 1.

CK® Testimonial... It finally occurred to me what has been missing during the last 2 days. Since Richard’s surgery, he isn’t complaining about his inability to read something on the fly without searching for his glasses. He wired 6 recessed lights (NO GLASSES), he read the Sunday paper sections A & B and menus (NO GLASSES), and is using the computer (NO GLASSES). I suppose for Richard, needing to look for glasses when he wanted to see something, has been the hardest adjustment of becoming older. His dependence was so gradual that I never related to why he would get so angry over needing them. My house has been quieter. I now have 2 less things to do everyday: find the glasses and make sure they were clean!

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contents

educate. enrich. empower.

Dr. Philip Chao

health&medicine

Latest Advances In Eye Surgery....................2 Big Veins And Little Ones...............................5 Helping Delaware Hear Better........................6 Noise And Your Brain (W Del. Edition)...........6 Put On Your Happy Face................................7 Weight-Loss Surgery (W Del. Edition)............7 Penicillin Allergy..............................................8 Detecting Breast Cancer.................................9 MediSpa Grand Opening!........................10-11 Academy Award (W Del. Edition)..................10 Never Too Late (W Del. Edition)....................11 Pharmacy Compounding..............................12 New Mothers Donate Cord Blood.................13 Do You Know Your Numbers?......................14 Retinal Vascular Disease.............................15 Help, My Eyelids Have Fallen!......................16 Early Recognition Of Heart Attack................17 Robotic Surgery For Pelvic Organ Prolapse....18 Trust Your Child’s Eyes To Simon Eye.........19

fitness&lifestyle

Got Neck Pain?............................................20 Sugar: Toxic & Disease Causing...................21 Breath Of Life...............................................22 Strengthen Your Immune System.................23 Selecting A Pilates Instructor........................24 Oncology Massage.......................................25 Punished By Your Anger...............................26 Picky People Picking Professionals.............27

home&garden

Moving The World Since 1946......................28 Experience Stress-Free Service...................29 A Free Year Of Cleaning..............................30 Window Treatments & Energy Savings........31 www.TheWomensJournal.com

Dr. Grace Liu & Dr. Lewis Yu

peopleinprofile

Breast Cancer Awareness Month............32-34

photography

Making The Irreplaceable, Unforgettable......35

mentalhealth

Healing The Child Within Us All....................36

education

Balancing Homework....................................37 Learning Disabilities Without Drugs..............38 Create A Career Or Educational Plan...........39 Here She Goes Again...................................39 Does Your Child Need More?.......................40

community

tableofcontents

Dr. Katie Schuler

fashion&beauty

Understanding The Changing Cost Of Flowers!....50 What Are YOU Wearing?..............................51 Diamonds.....................................................52 What Is Your Makeup Style?........................53 Lola’s Ladies’ Night Out...............................53 Excitement Is In The Air At Lady’s Image.....54 Lips – They’re Becoming A Trademark.........55 New Hair And Smiling Faces........................56 Your Best Accessory For the Holidays..........57 Recycle Your Unworn Jewelry......................58 It’s Always Bra Season................................59 Offering Hope, Strength, And Courage........60 5 Benefits Of Exfoliation...............................61 Ethical Standards Of Hairdressing................62 Beautiful Hair On Your Day (W Del. Edition)..62 Purple Sage Tea & Gift Shop........................63

A Furniture Resale Shop Like No Other.......41 Woman Of The Year Awards........................42 Superstar In Business?.................................43 NAWBO........................................................43 Women In Business.....................................64

Just A Dream................................................64

business&finance

Delaware Theatre Company.........................65 The Grand!...................................................66 You Set The Stage.......................................72

Turning Maternity Leave Into A Career.........44 Who Do You Trust?......................................45

lifecoaching

Stuck In Fear?..............................................46

law

It’s What’s Best For The Kids.......................47 You Could Be On Candid Camera!..............48 Adequate Automobile Insurance Coverage?...49

greatfood

art&leisure

seniorliving

No Longer An Option....................................67 Affording Senior Living (W Del. Edition).......67 Kay Meade, 20-Year Volunteer.....................68

travel&leisure

Back Creek Golf Club...................................70 Come In And Join Us....................................71

publisher’snote

educate. enrich. empower. I would like to invite our readership to be the first to know that the New Castle County and the Delaware County Women’s Journal has decided to join our main company in going quarterly with our publications. After a year of studying our different papers (we have over 370 in print at this time) we realized that with the changing economy we needed to do our part in making certain that our contributors do not have to deal with the increase of production cost. It is obvious that oil has made a huge impact on our economy and the Women’s Journal is no different. Thus after a year of evaluating the advantages of going quarterly over bi-monthly and with the support of our contributors you are now reading the first Quarterly Issue. This is our much-honored Breast Cancer Survivors Issue; all of the women that you see on our front cover and in our profile are breast cancer survivors except for one. As you read the profiles you will see that breast cancer has no boundaries in who it strikes. But you will also see that these fighters have no boundaries in continuing the fight of their life. Help us celebrate this beautiful tribute to life. Every year I make the statement that the Breast Cancer Survivor Issue is my favorite shoot, because I meet such unique, strong, happy, beautiful women that appreciate life and what it has to offer. You can find your free copy of The Women’s Journal in many locations throughout New Castle, DE and DE County, PA. Some of the locations that you will find the papers in are libraries, medical offices, hospitals, hair and nail salons, spas, coffee shops, gyms, etc. If you can’t find your copy just call my office and we will be glad to let you know where you can locate a copy in your area.

Pamela J. Rizzo, Publisher

A special thank you to all our wonderful contributors for their educational editorials and to all our readers who make the hard work worth it. - Thank You, Pamela Rizzo, Publisher

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Kindly enter my subscription for THE WOMEN’S JOURNAL. A one-year subscription (4 issues) via First Class Mail is $24. Check or money order payable to: THE COUNTY WOMEN’S JOURNAL P.O. Box 57, Lewes, DE 19958

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Advertising Sales: Pamela J. Rizzo / Nancy Kanienberg/ Kellie Draper/Chrystine Karaman Distribution Manager: Tony Morris Accounting: Pamela Rizzo The Women’s Journal is published bimonthly and is available free of charge, by subscription, at display stands in approved private and public establishments and authorized distributors only. Trademark and U.S. Copyright laws protect The Women’s Journal. No part of this paper may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. The Women’s Journal is not responsible for any editorial comment (other than its own), typographical errors from advertisements submitted as camera ready or any reproductions of advertisements submitted as camera ready. If an advertisement does not meet our standards of acceptance, we may revise or cancel it at any time, whether or not it has been already acknowledged and/or previously published. The advertiser assumes sole responsibility for all statements contained in submitted copy and will protect and indemnify The Women’s Journal, its owners, publishers, and employees, against any and all liability loss or expense arising out of claims for liable, unfair trade names, patents copyrights and propriety rights, and all violations of the right of privacy or other violations resulting from the publication by this newspaper of its advertising copy. Publisher shall be under no liability for failure, for any reason, to insert an advertisement. Publisher shall not be liable by reason of error, omission and/or failure to insert any part of an advertisement. Publisher will not be liable for delay or failure in performance in publication and/or distribution if all or any portion of an issue is delayed or suspended for any reason. The publisher will exercise reasonable judgement in these instances and will make adjustments for the advertiser where and when appropriate. The Women’s Journal assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material or reproductions made by advertisers. This newspaper will be published by the 15th of every other month.

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A D D R ES S CO U N T Y PHONE

On The Cover... I would like to extend a special thank you to Dale Maahs, manager of “Great Stuff Resale”, for graciously allowing us to have our profile photo shoot for this issue at the wonderful DBCC’s Resale Shop. This was certainly the best place to have a breast cancer survivor photo shoot! The Great Stuff Savvy Resale shop is located in the Talleyville Center, 3619-A Silverside Road, Wilmington, DE 19810. For more information or to volunteer at the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition’s Resale Shop call 302-478-7890. Most people never know how much work and energy it takes to pull off one of our profile photo shoots, unless they participate in one or they are the people helping pull it all together. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all of the following for all their hard work: J. Christian Hair Salon- an award winning, upscale salon located at 7465 Lancaster Pike, Hockessin, DE 19707, who provided all hair styling for our shoot and did such a beautiful job. For more information call 302-325-2306. iMakeup Artistry by Leisa Kanienberg provided Makeup Artistry. Leisa Kanienberg is a Professional Makeup Artist specializing in a wide range of makeup applications and techniques. For more information or to book Leisa, please call 513.207.0550 or visit iMakeupArtistry.com or Facebook.com/iMakeupArtistry Roy McDowell of Royal Photography provided all photography work. Royal Photography is located at 3646 Silverside Rd., Wilmington, DE 19810. For more information call 302-478-1809. Without all of these wonderful people none of our photo shoots would be possible. Thank you for your hard work and dedication. Survivor profiles are located on Pages 32-34. 4

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Not Only Your Big Veins Matter, The Little Ones Too! I

often reflect back on my experience at First State Vein and Laser Center, thinking about what matters most to my patients. Obviously, patients that have “big” unsightly, bulging, winding painful veins are concerned about them. But I realize that it’s the “small” things that really matter to the majority of the patients. “Small” things like reducing downtime, lessening discomfort and the possibility of scarring - matter. To most, it is also the small veins that frequently matter. Even after ablation (closure) of an incompetent great saphenous vein, the source of their initial complaint, I am often asked what can be done about the remaining bulging vein, or about the small stubborn blue-purple spider veins. Obviously, we are concerned about life threatening D.V.T. (deep vein thrombosis) or leg ulcers. But for most patients, it is irrelevant; they don’t have them. Most are bothered by non-critical vein problems. As ‘vein doctors’ we should address the entire spectrum of vein problems, should not ignore patient’s strong wishes and treat what matters to them - the big and the small veins.

What is Venous Insufficiency?

Uni-directional valves are essential to insure the flow of blood from superficial to deep veins and from the legs to the heart. These valves are present in ALL veins, the tiniest and the largest alike. When these valves leak or become incompetent, the blood flows backwards, pools within the veins and weakens their walls. This condition, called venous insufficiency, may occur in veins of all sizes. In large ‘trunks’ like the great saphenous vein, this will result in what is commonly known as varicose veins, while in smaller (2-3 mm) veins under the skin (reticular veins) it will produce spider veins.

Spider Veins - Often Part of a Bigger Problem As mentioned above, leaky valves in reticular veins result in spider veins. These can be isolated phenomena. But spider veins can also be a manifestation of a deeper, larger vein’s insufficiency that over the years has gradually affected more superficial veins and eventually, reaches the reticular veins. A patient who comes in for the treatment of spider veins, should be first assessed to determine whether these are an

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isolated issue, or part of a broader and deeper, problem.

Isolated Spider Veins Can Be Treated By:

Sclerotherapy – closure of the veins by injection of a chemical solution called sclerosant, ideal for spider veins 0.8 - 1.2mm in width. Ohmic Thermolysis - works by a heat generated by radiofrequency device called “Vein Gogh”, best for spider veins smaller than 0.8mm in width. L.H.E. Therapy – combined Light and Heat Energy Technology – effective for very tiny veins. When spider veins are a manifestation of an underlying large veins venous insufficiency, which can happen even without the presence of large varicose veins, the underlying problem should be addressed first.

Testimonial

I vacillated for years with the idea of having a procedure done, to eliminate my spider and varicose veins. I had been to a few dermatologists but, just never felt comfortable enough to move forward. Then my sisterin-law told me about First State Vein and Laser MediSpa. She had been to Dr. Shapira and her great results and told me to call. I did just that; and from my very first appointment, I knew Dr. Shapira could help me. He took the time to determine the cause of my issues and then to explain exactly what needed to be done. He assured me he could help my legs look and feel better and he did! I cannot say enough good things about Dr. Shapira and his staff; they are incredibly knowledgeable and friendly. This was the first summer in years that I was actually comfortable wearing shorts and dresses. - Nadine L., Newark, Delaware

Underlying Venous Insufficiency Can Be Treated By: Foam Sclerotherapy - the injection of a sclerosant mixed with CO2 to close reticular veins.

Phlebectomy - a delicate surgical removal of small or large bulging veins. Ultrasound guided sclerotherapy - a closure by sclerosant of deep incompetent perforating veins, under ultrasound guidance. Endo venous laser ablation laser closure of large incompetent veins. At First State Vein and Laser Center we offer all these modalities, alone or in combination, in order to reach the most desirable longlasting results. Our success is measured by the ability to understand, diagnose and explain to our patients what their particular underlying venous problems are and how we plan to solve them. We are committed to address the entire spectrum of their problems, the small, as well as the big issues.

Nadiv Shapira MD, FACS, FACPh, opened First State Vein and Laser Center in January 2011. One year later he left his 20-year old practice as a Cardio-thoracic surgeon at Christiana Care Health System in Wilmington, Delaware to devote his entire career to the practice of Phlebology. He offers in-depth evaluations and a wide range of minimally and non-invasive interventions. In January 2013, together with his wife Lynn and a devoted and highly skilled team, he was one of the first in the area to add the “Medispa” concept to his practice.

Spider and Varicose Vein Experts In-depth Knowledge of Venous Disease Vein GoghTM and LHE®, the Newest Proven Technologies for Spider Veins Targeting the Source, to Minimize Reoccurrence Excepting All Insurances

before

after

302.294-0700 • 1300 N Franklin St, Wilmington, DE • FirstStateVein.com

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Hearing Aids, Noise And Your Brain

By Denise E. Stewart M.S., CCC-A

n a previous article I reviewed advanced digital hearing aid features that assist hearing impaired users when listening to conversation in background noise. These features require high level processing of sound and in some ways they even mimic the way the brain works when receiving sound from all directions. This prompts some hearing aid users to question the technology. Is the processing that hearing aids perform actually preempting your brain’s ability to handle background noise effectively? To answer this question we need to discuss how the brain receives information from the ears in quiet and in noise.

Hearing in Quiet: Many people with known hearing loss report that they have very little trouble understanding conversation in a quiet room. However, they

concentrated on “neural synchrony” that is necessary for auditory neurons to send accurate temporal coding information of incoming sound to the brain. The finding was that there was a reduction in neural synchrony and temporal coding when noise was present for their hearing impaired subjects. When the timing is off, the information sent by the neurons to the brain is inaccurate. For example, imagine trying to decipher a melody when listening to members of an orchestra each playing the tune at a different rate. You could not do it. In fact this would be an example of a cacophony.

usually admit that they totally lose the conversation when the environment is noisy. Hearing research has corroborated this observation. We know that the inner ear consists of thousands of sensory hair cells that are arranged and grouped according to frequency. These hair cells are finely tuned to respond to and transmit sound in a frequency following manner. These hair cells once activated transmit their finely tuned information to their corresponding neurons. The neurons in turn transmit the temporal coding to the auditory cortex in the brain. There have been no studies to date that have shown any physiologic difference between neuronal coding activity of normal hearing and hearing impaired subjects in quiet. This means that someone with a mild hearing loss who has missing or defective hair cells in select areas of the inner ear would be able to follow a conversation in quiet due to having access to sufficient temporal coding information. They may not hear every word but they would get the gist of the conversation. For example, someone hearing a familiar melody with one or two missing notes should still be able to recognize the melody provided that the notes heard are true. Unfortunately this is not the case when background noise is present.

Now imagine that you decide to get help for your hearing loss to hear those “missing notes” in quiet. You decide that you do not need all those special hearing aid features and you are fit with an economy digital hearing aid with no special features to enhance speech in noise. When you go to a crowded restaurant with friends, all you hear is a cacophony and you blame those lousy hearing aids!

Help From Hearing Aids at Riddle Audiology: The study cited provided actual physiologic evidence of what audiologists have seen and heard from their hearing impaired patients for years. This study also provides evidence for performing hearing tests in noise as well as quiet. While it is true that not every hearing impaired person has difficulty hearing well in noise, many do. Unless you receive testing in noise

Hearing in Noise: A recent study from Purdue University found that the ears of hearing impaired subjects function quite differently when background noise is present. The study

prior to amplification, you will not know if you have accurate temporal processing in noise or not. At Riddle Audiology Department and Hearing Aid Center the audiologists provide patients with comprehensive audiometric testing that includes tests of speech in noise. For those hearing impaired persons who really need them, the advanced digital hearing aid features do not preempt the brain’s ability to adapt to noise, they actually enhance the brain’s ability to decipher conversation in noise by giving it a clearer signal!

For more information or to schedule an evaluation or treatment, contact the Audiology Department at Riddle Hospital. Barbara J. Madden, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology/Director Catherine M. Marino, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology Denise E. Stewart, M.S. Clinical Audiologist Lisa C. Mackenzie, M.S. Clinical Audiologist RIDDLE HOSPITAL Audiology & Hearing Aid Center 1118 West Baltimore Pike Suite 207 Media, PA 19063 (484) 227-3200-phone (484) 227-3265-fax

FREE HEARING AID BATTERIES

The best things in life are free. Add free hearing aid batteries to the list. To request your free hearing aid batteries from The Riddle Hospital Audiology and Hearing Aid Department, go to mainlinehealth.org/RiddleAudiology. 484.227.3200 || mainlinehealth.org/RiddleAudiology 6

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Weighing In Is Weight-Loss Surgery Right For You?

have completely resolved. She has changed the way she eats, and she exercises three or more times a week. “By any means, it is not all a piece of cake,” she admits, “Still to this day I have good days and bad. My mind sometimes still sees the heavier Heather; it still shocks me that I can shop pretty much wherever I want now. I am so happy that I had the surgery and have no regrets. I always say Dr. Olukoga saved my life.

did, but I couldn’t bring myself to stop. It was a vicious cycle.” Prior to surgery, Heather had a BMI of 46.9 and was suffering from sleep apnea and acid reflux; at this point, she was a suitable candidate for weight-loss surgery.

By Christopher Olukoga, MD, FACS

t is an unfortunate fact that our nation is experiencing a critical weight problem with obesity. More than one-third of U.S. adults – nearly 38 percent – are obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, and the percentage continues to climb. Overweight and obesity are linked to several chronic diseases including type II diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, high cholesterol, heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer. In Pennsylvania alone, the percentage of overweight or obese adults topped 28.6 percent in 2011. Weight loss surgery is a very durable option for obese individuals who have been unsuccessful at losing weight by diet and exercise alone. Weight-loss surgery (also called bariatric surgery) is a safe and highly effective procedure that has enabled hundreds of thousands of obese persons achieve life-changing weight loss. Clinical studies have shown that weight loss after bariatric surgery can resolve type II diabetes, hypertension, cut a person’s risk of developing coronary heart disease in half and resolve obstructive sleep apnea in more than 85% of patients. Heather had the laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (lap band) surgery at Brandywine Hospital performed by Dr. Olukoga in January 2012. Like many women, she had a dangerous relationship with food. She loved to eat – and would eat anything and everything she could get her hands on whether she was happy, sad or angry. “Thinking back,” Heather recalls “I wonder: Why did I do it? I felt guilty about eating as much as I

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Although it is difficult to achieve sustainable weight loss without bariatric surgery, not all obese patients are candidates. Individuals also should be: • Between the ages of 18 and 65 •

procedure, all patients need to maintain a lifelong lifestyle change that includes healthy food choices, food portion control, and regular exercise.

Have a high body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with an obesity-related condition like diabetes mellitus, hypertension, sleep apnea, or high cholesterol

•

Struggling with an obesityrelated condition, like hypertension, heart disease, or sleep apnea

•

Trying to or have tried in the past to lose weight through other means

•

Psychologically ready for weight loss surgery

•

Willing to commit to dramatic post-operative lifestyle changes

By a year and six months out of surgery, Heather had lost 89 lbs. Her sleep apnea and acid reflux

Christopher Olukoga, MD, FACS, is a board-certified surgeon with Surgical Associates of Chester County and performs bariatric, general, laparoscopic and robotic surgery. Dr. Olukoga is on the medical staff at Brandywine Hospital and serves as the Director of General and Bariatric surgery.

Comfort.

It took Heather nearly two years to decide on weight-loss surgery. “I had doubts,” she recalls, “like, how am I going to survive this two week pre-surgery diet they are going to torture me with? It was rough for the first few days, but it got easier. I’m not going to lie, the procedure was tough. This is serious stuff, but every day it gets easier.”

our spaCious private rooms help patients reCover in Comfort. Brandywine Hospital has undergone a renovation to offer our patients private rooms with special amenities that help them feel more comfortable and at ease. These new rooms have ample space for family and friends. Wi-Fi is available. Now, every room in our Medical/Surgical, Orthopedic and Neuroscience, Progressive Care and Intensive Care Units is completely private. To find out more about the patient-centered care at Brandywine, visit BrandywineHospital.com.

There are a number of factors to take in to account when considering weight loss surgery. Surgery is just one critical step that provides you with a tool that allows you to lose weight successfully. You need to consider if your weight is such an issue that you are willing to take the risks of surgery, if you’ll be able to afford it, and if you can commit to the necessary lifestyle changes needed for success after surgery. After a successful

It’s better at Brandywine.

7 60167_BRAN_Rooms_22x30cP.indd 1

2/14/12 3:55 PM

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Penicillin Allergy

The Importance Of An Accurate Diagnosis Penicillin allergy is one of the most common causes of drug Gregg Goldstein, MD related allergic reactions. It is the most common cause of anaphylaxis and causes the majority of all anaphylaxis deaths in the United States. While allergic reactions occur in around 2% of patients treated with penicillin, most are mild and consist of rashes and hives. Up to 25% of patients self report a drug allergy, with penicillin being the most common. As many as 1 in 10 patients have reported a penicillin allergy equating to around 30 million patients. Surprisingly, around 90% of these patients are not allergic when assessed by skin testing. We estimate that approximately 3 million patients are penicillin allergic; however, there are 27 million patients who report a penicillin allergy when they actually can safely receive this important medicine. Discrepancies in the true incidence of penicillin allergy occur for two reasons. Most arise because patients were told that they had a reaction, such as a rash, in childhood. Often, these rashes were not caused by the use of antibiotics, but by one of the many pediatric infections that are associated with rash, thus leading to the confusion. In addition, some patients may have experienced a “true” reaction to penicillin as a child, but many lose their sensitivity over time and can now safely receive penicillin. Determining who can receive penicillin safely is important for patient care and for the broader community. Patients with penicillin allergy are often placed on broad spectrum antibiotics, which may lead to drug-resistant bacteria. These patients often receive very strong antibiotics that are generally reserved for serious infections. The concern about multi-resistant bacteria has led the CDC to recommend more selective use of available antibiotics. Penicillin allergic patients are at higher risk of treatment failure due to suboptimal therapy. Finally, unnecessary use of broad spectrum antibiotics results in increased medical costs. Overall added costs due to antibiotic resistance organisms in the U.S. are estimated at 26 billion dollars. Penicillin allergy is caused by the body reacting to portions of the penicillin molecule. The good news for patients with an unclear penicillin allergy is that testing

is now available. PRE-PEN, which tests for the major determinant of penicillin allergy, is the only FDA approved skin test for the diagnosis of penicillin allergy. Previous blood testing was found to be only 80% effective in determining those patients who are truly allergic. PRE-PEN testing, which involves prick testing, followed by intradermal testing has been found, when combined with the “minor determinant”, to be over 98% effective at determining penicillin allergic patients. The chance of developing a systemic reaction to penicillin if such testing is found to be negative is less than 1%. Patients with previously well documented marked local reactions or any systemic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, are not candidates for testing.

For patients who do not have documented evidence of a severe reaction, PRE-PEN testing is safe, effective and can result in confirmation that Penicillin and other antibiotics in the Penicillin family can be safely administered. Gregg Goldstein, M.D. is a practicing, board certified Otolaryngologist in private practice in Delaware. He is one of the physicians at ENT & Allergy of Delaware, which has four locations throughout New Castle County.

For further information regarding Dr. Goldstein and his practice, please go to www.entad.org.

WELCOME TO ENT & ALLERGY OF DELAWARE Joan Coker, MD

•

Neil Hockstein, MD

Kieran Connolly, MD •

Paul Imber, DO

• •

Timoteo Gabriel, MD

•

Gregg Goldstein, MD

William Sheppard, MD

•

Michael Teixido, MD

• Adult & Pediatric Otolaryngology

• Head & Neck Cancer Treatment

• Allergy Testing & Treatment, including Sublingual Immunotherapy

• Medical & Surgical Management of Hearing & Balance Disorders

• Swallowing & Voice Disorders

• Headache Treatment

• Thyroid Surgery

• Audiology & Hearing Aid Services

302.998.0300 www.entad.org PrePen Testing Now Available Our caring and experienced allergy staff

Ketlay Plaza: 114 Sandhill Drive; Suite 102; Middletown, DE 19709 Limestone Medical Center: 1941 Limestone Road, Suite 210, Wilmington, DE 19808 Glasgow Medical Center: 2600 Glasgow Avenue, Suite 101, Newark, DE 19702 Foulkstone Plaza: 1401 Foulk Road, Suite 205, Wilmington, DE 19803 8

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Detecting Breast Cancer form and insurance questionnaire, and the lab agrees to contact your insurance company to see if the test is covered, and, if so, what cost is passed on to the patient. You are notified of the cost before any work is done, and if you decide not to go forward, you are not charged. Under Obamacare, this genetic testing will be covered. Under Obamacare, all sorts of screening tests will be FREE.

By Dr. Philip Chao

s I write this article, it is September—National Alzheimer’s Disease Month—and only one month before the new Health Exchanges under Obamacare. Women with a family history of ovarian or breast cancer should read this article very carefully. Genetic testing is being discussed more and more and many doctors are confused as to how it fits into responsible patient care. Some people even claim that testing has not been proven to save lives. It is absolutely important to know if you have the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene. These cancer genes could quadruple your chance of getting cancer. This is particularly important if you have any first degree relatives with breast or ovarian cancer. If you have several second degree relatives with breast or ovarian cancer, then you should have testing. Why test? The picture here shows a Worst Case Scenario: A woman with the BRCA1 gene who presented with a 7mm mass … which grew into a 7 cm mass in just one year. WOW! This shows you how important it is to know if you have the BRCA1 or 2 gene. MRI Consultants offers genetic testing for the BRCA1 gene or BRCA2 gene. Rather than having to have a lengthy and expensive consultation with the genetics department of a hospital, we simply gather your genetic sample (cells from your mouth) and send it to a national genetic testing facility. While we do this for free, a referral from your Primary Care Physician is required. The patient fills out a short medical history

3T MRI IS 100% SENSITIVE TO BREAST CANCER. Spectroscopy is also about 95% specific. Breast MR imaging times at 3T can be as little as 8 minutes with dynamic contrast after the localizing images. Spectroscopy only makes the test more specific. For detection of breast cancer ONLY 3T MRI was shown to be 100% sensitive in a study supported by the American College of Radiology. Spectroscopy was found at Hopkins to be the

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next important test for breast imaging. However, it has not yet caught on in Delaware. (For more info:www.3tbreastmri.com) Many people—even doctors—are totally unaware that MRI comes in several levels of quality … ranging from “fuzzy” images to ones that are crystal clear. We do body diffusion weighted imaging (“DWI”). In the brain, this technique shows early strokes. In the body, it shows tumors of the GI tract and of the kidneys. We found two pancreatic cancers just last year. We found several patients with liver metastases using this technique. In the past year alone, we diagnosed two kidney tumors based on their appearance on DWI.

At present, we are the only MRI facility in Delaware to offer spectroscopy. There are no cons to proton spectroscopy. It uses no ionizing radiation. It provides crucial information that no other imaging test can give and few doctors have even heard of it- unless they are a cancer researcher. Dr. Chao has done spectroscopy since his fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania when he then brought it to Delaware. It is useful for brain tumors, breast cancer and prostate cancer detection. It can show your tumor in the prostate when your PSA level is going up. It can show if a mass in the breast is cancerous. Without any incisions. Not only does it have no side effects or contraindications, it can also detect Alzheimer’s Disease. Proton spectroscopy is a test available that will not expose you to radiation needlessly. It can provide crucial information even when they think you might have a stroke – which can be misdiagnosed. If your stroke does not follow normal clinical expectations they can ask for spectroscopy of the socalled stroke. Sometimes doctors misdiagnose stroke when you actually have a brain tumor. Having spectroscopy done for free – at our Lewes advanced 32 channel MRI takes 4-5 minutes more scan time and is FREE when your doctor orders a brain scan with and without contrast.

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We offer cutting edge technology tempered with 28 years of experience doing, teaching and inventing MRI techniques. 3T is faster, has more resolution, and it is the MOST detailed and accurate scan available. For more information on this and other MRI-related issues, check our websites: www.mriconsultants. net www.bestopenmri.net. For people who are without insurance, we offer a low Out-of-Pocket discount and for those who are truly claustrophobic, we offer IV sedation. We try to make your MRI experience as low-stress as possible. Dr. Philip Chao graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Yale University and was Scholar of the House. He continued his studies at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, receiving his medical degree in 1983. After a transitional internship year at the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, NY, Dr. Chao did his residency in Radiology at Brooklyn’s SUNY Health Science Center (19841987), where he became Chief Resident. He stayed on to complete a fellowship in Neuroradiology (1987-1988). Dr. Chao has been interested in MRI technology since its very beginning – the first MRI scan took place in 1981 while he was pursuing his medical studies. The University of Pennsylvania, where Dr. Chao was both a Body MRI Fellow (1988-1990) and a Neuroradiology Fellow (1989-1990), was at the heart of the development of this technology and Dr. Chao was able to work with pioneers in MRI

Breast Cancer On MRI on the first GE Signa 1.5T (tesla) scanner. His advanced research and specializations complete, Dr. Chao left the University of Pennsylvania for a position as Director of MRI in Wilmington, DE – a position he held for 14 years. Dr. Chao eventually left that position to create the best MRI Center in Delaware which uses the very latest technology: 3T MRI. While 3T (tesla) scanners have been used for scanning research patients since 2002, these advanced, more powerful MRI scanners only became available for clinical use in 2004. Dr. Chao worked hard to bring 3T technology to Delaware and in February 2007, MRI Consultants, LLC began operating the first 3T scanner in the State. 3T is the newest horizon for MRI.

Two Locations Best Open MRI 1 Centurian Drive, Suite 107

Newark, DE

302 838 7800

MRI Consultants 17252-9 N. Village Main Blvd

Lewes, DE

302 827 4251

www.safecontrast.com

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Chadds Ford Dentist Receives Academy Award The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) is pleased to announce that Anna C. Giacalone, DMD, MAGD, of Chadds Ford, PA, received the association’s Mastership Award during the AGD 2013 Annual Meeting & Exhibits, held from June 27 to 30 in Nashville, Tenn.

The Mastership Award is the highest AGD honor available and one of the most respected designations within the profession. To earn this award, Dr. Giacalone completed 1,100 hours of disciplined and comprehensive dental study covering all aspects of dentistry. “We are proud to honor Dr. Giacalone for her commitment to continuing education in her quest to provide quality dental care and oral health education to her patients,” says AGD President Linda J. Edgar, DDS, MEd, MAGD. “It’s a remarkable accomplishment.” To learn more about Dr. Giacalone, please see www.giacalonedmd.com 10

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Never Too Late To Restore A Youthful Smile I

find it exciting to be practicing dentistry today with the availability of dental implants. I particularly enjoy helping those patients who lost not only multiple teeth, but significant quantity of supporting bone. Whether this type of defect is a result of face trauma or gum disease, the entire face is affected. The mouth has a sunken appearance with pucker creases along the lip line. A hybrid denture, also called a fixed detachable denture, restores the youthful contour of the lip and pleasing smile.

The hybrid denture is a denture which is securely fixed to implant retainers. Dental implants are surgically placed artificial roots, usually made of titanium. The hybrid denture is screwed into these strategically placed implant “roots”. The patient has the convenience of having teeth that are not removable except by the dentist when maintenance is required. They look and feel like natural teeth. What makes the

hybrid denture different than crown and bridge which is implant retained is that the lost gum tissue is replaced as well as the teeth. (Fixed implant retained crowns and bridges look like they are growing out of the natural gum. It is a teeth only replacement.) With a hybrid denture in the upper jaw there is no need to cover the roof of the mouth as is the case with traditional removable partial and full dentures. Since the taste buds on the roof of the mouth are not covered, there is no loss of taste sensation. Also, those patients with a strong gag reflex benefit greatly by having the hybrid denture replace their traditional removable. A hybrid denture is one of many implant retained tooth replacement options. The decision to treatment plan this type of devises is not a simple one. There are many factors to consider, including the patient’s health, time and financial commitment, biologic factors such as the quantity and quality of available bone. The patient’s ability to adapt to something new in his or her mouth is another important factor. Just as critical is the patient’s ability to clean the implant retained prosthesis. It is imperative that any devise in the mouth be kept plaque free so surrounding soft tissues and bone can remain healthy. Not all individuals have the fine motor skills in their hands necessary to

Anna C. Giacalone, DMD, MAGD Master of the Academy of General Dentistry Education: • BS. Biology Chestnut Hill College • DMD. University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine • Certificate and Internship: Comprehensive Orthodontic Institute

achieve this goal. For example, patients with significant arthritis in the hands or neuromuscular diseases would not be good candidates for the challenges a hybrid denture presents.

A dental procedure which allows you to chew comfortably, smile confidently, and know that a cough or sneeze or belly laugh will not cause embarrassment, is a valuable service indeed.

Since the hybrid denture only removable by the dentist there are greater challenges in keeping the prosthesis clean. When the hybrid is well designed for the right patient it is well worth the extra effort. Design is key. The desire to allow enough space under the fixed hybrid denture to allow cleaning devises to easily pass through must be balanced against the need to keep an air seal.

National Dental Reviews “The treatment here is thorough as you will find anywhere. Dr. G. and her staff regularly take courses and are always current with the latest treatments. Dr. G. is an artist with cosmetic dentistry, so your results are beautiful as well as functional. An outstanding dentist.” - Sharon S.

The seal at the tissue side of the hybrid denture is necessary for proper articulation. When we pronounce words, we modify the escape of air from the lungs with the tongue, lips and teeth. If the hybrid denture is placed with too large a gap between denture and the gum, air will escape. Without a proper air seal, a speech defect may be heard. The hybrid denture is an excellent tooth replacement option when fabricated for right patient. It is just one of the many implant retained tooth replacements which change lives.

• Certificate: prestigious Dawson Academy of Advanced Study Awards: • Pennsylvania Dental Association Award for Excellence during the four years of dental school • Top Cosmetic Dentist Main Line 2007, 2011, 20012, 2013 (chosen by peers) • Top Dentist in Delaware Valley, 2008; Delaware Valley Consumer Checkbook (chosen by patients) • America’s Top Dentists 2010 - 2013 Consumer Research Counsel To learn more visit her web site: www.giacalonedmd.com www.TheWomensJournal.com

“The patient comes first. Everything is done to make the patient comfortable and at ease. Everything is explained.” - Nancy W. “Anna is very creative and artistic with her dental tools. When fixing a tooth gone bad she makes me feel like she is sculpting a new one to fit precisely with my others, whether it’s a simple filling or a more involved crown. In addition, she assembled a wonderful staff of talented and friendly hygienists as well.” - Clement M. To see more National Dental reviews go to http://anna-giacalone-dmd-inc. nationaldentalreviews.org/

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The Art and Science of Pharmacy Compounding dosage allowing for fewer doses. This can mean less stress for both the animal and the owner. For animals in a fragile health state this can improve their quality of life and potentially add time to their lifespan.

needed flexibility in dosing for the patient requiring a much lower dose than is available. This is often seen when treating infants and small children who have serious health issues usually seen in adults. In these cases there is no pediatric dose or dosage form commercially available.

By Brenda Pavlic, CPhT

harmacy Compounding is a vital aspect of healthcare today. It is the mixing of active pharmaceutical ingredients to meet the unique needs of an individual patient; whether that patient is a human or an animal. While compounding has always been a basic part of pharmacy practice, today it is an area that has rapidly evolved. Compounding allows the specially trained pharmacist and technician to use their science and mathematics background more than in other pharmacy practice settings. Because compounding meets individualized needs of patients, pharmacists and other staff members develop a close relationship with medical professionals, caregivers and the patients they serve. They work closely with doctors, advanced practice nurses, physician assistants, veterinarians, and others with prescriptive authority to solve problems that are not addressed by commercially available dosage forms. Practitioners sometimes need to prescribe individually compounded medications for a patient with special healthcare needs. It may be simply changing the dosage form from a solid pill to a liquid because a patient is unable to swallow a tablet or capsule due to age or because of a disability. For example, patients with a feeding tube must have their medications liquefied. Having the medication compounded from the pure chemical results in a product that is free from extraneous ingredients contained in a tablet or capsule that can potentially clog the tube. This may mean the patient is not getting his or her full dose, or worse, the patient may have to change the tube more often. Preparing a liquid offers the

The ability to prepare medications free from substances that cause negative effects is extremely helpful to patients with special dietary needs. Some of these include dietary needs for those who are gluten or lactose intolerant, and the needs of those with challenging conditions ranging from autism to celiac disease. Patients with allergies or sensitivities to certain substances can have their medicines custom-made without the offending ingredients. This can be extremely beneficial for those who cannot tolerate artificial dyes, preservatives, nuts, artificial sweeteners, artificial flavors, sugar, gluten, wheat, corn, etc. Some medications have been discontinued by the manufacturer due to low profitability or because a newer drug has taken its place. A compounding pharmacy can duplicate these medications allowing patients who still need them to continue with effective therapies. Hospice patients especially benefit from compounding by having access to alternate dosage forms such as lollipops, topical transdermal gels, or suppositories as they lose the ability to swallow pills or liquids. This gives one the ability to treat their pain, agitation, anxiety, or nausea with greater effectiveness. Being able to treat these symptoms more easily helps the patient as well as the caregiver.

Pharmacy compounding has often been described as an art form. As with any creative endeavor, it is imperative that the preparer pay close attention to detail. A qualified compounder will have extensive training enabling him/her to advise and offer viable solutions to medication problems. The role of the compounding pharmacist has come full circle and returned to the roots of pharmacy. Meeting the unique needs of individual patients with carefully prepared individualized medications offers benefits that positively affect all that are treated, regardless of species. Testimonials: Thank you for your attention and service. We appreciate your compassion and thoughtfulness. ~LJ We greatly appreciate you taking time out of your busy day to educate us and share your expertise. ~PP It is very hard to find people with compassion as great as yours. Words cannot express how grateful I am to you for helping me and my daughter in our time of desperation. I had all but given up on finding medicine for my daughter when I called SaveWay. I will never forget you and wish there were more people out there like you. ~JR Calvin & Brenda—Just a quick thank you for all of your help with the

nursing home and especially working with the nursing supervisor. We really appreciate it. ~DPP For more information, call Saveway Compounding Pharmacy at 302-369-5520 or 1-877-2258469, or visit them at 31 Albe Drive, #1, Newark, DE 19702. Brenda Pavlic is a nationally certified pharmacy technician and co-owner of SaveWay Compounding Pharmacy in Newark, DE. With more than twenty-five years of pharmacy experience she has furthered her career with extensive training and education in Pharmacy Compounding, Women’s Health, Cosmeceutics, Pain Management, Aseptic and Veterinary Compounding. She has published articles and presented seminars both locally and nationally to healthcare practitioners. Her experience and education provide her with skills needed to develop formulations that ease medication administration, improve compliance and ultimately result in positive outcomes for patients.

SaveWay

Compounding Pharmacy 31 Albe Drive; Unit 1 Newark, DE 19702 (302) 369-5520 savewaybrenda@aol.com www.savewaypharmacy.com Hours: M-F 9am—6pm Sat 10am—2pm Closed Sunday

Compounding has proven to be an invaluable service for the veterinary community. Animal doses are based on weight so there is a need for multiple strengths of the drugs that are prescribed for them. In addition, a compounding pharmacy can concoct the medications in dosage forms that make dosing easier for both the pet and the owner resulting in better compliancy. Some of the options include flavored liquids, chewable treats, capsules, topically applied and systemically absorbed transdermal gels, or suppositories. Having all these options allows the pets’ prescription to be prepared in a form and flavor that best suits the animal’s preference. Compounding also provides the ability to combine several medications into a single

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Christiana Care Health System Helps New Mothers Donate Cord Blood

By Richard J. Derman, M.D., MPH, FACOG, Marie E. Pinizzotto, M.D., endowed chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Christiana Care Health System and Gregory W. DeMeo, D.O., medical director of Christiana Hospital’s Labor and Delivery and President of Women First, LLC.

n the treasured moments after a mother gives birth, another life-giving opportunity is available inside the hospital delivery room. Mothers delivering at Christiana Care Health System can make their baby’s birth even more special by donating their baby’s umbilical cord blood. By electing to donate their newborn’s cord blood, the new mother can help patients across the nation struggling with chronic illnesses as well as diseases for which no cure exists. In obtaining the sample, no physical contact occurs with either the mother or newborn. Consider the banking of blood from the umbilical cord – the part of the placenta that transports nutrients to the fetus – as a form of recycling that both saves and improves lives. The cord blood stem cells – which are adult stem cells and not embryonic stem cells – can be used to treat diseases, such as certain cancers. Researchers also work with cord blood stem cells, which transform into all the different cell types in our bodies, to find new treatments for disease.

comprehensive, integrated, highquality health care services for women, has partnered with the nation’s foremost cord blood banking provider, CORD:USE, to give local mothers-to-be an opportunity to bank their cord blood and rest assured that this tissue will serve a life-giving purpose. Christiana Care’s Labor and Delivery nurses educate expectant mothers about cord blood banking while they are in labor at Christiana Hospital. If they choose to bank, Christiana Care obstetricians and nurse midwives collect the cord blood using CORD:USE’s patented collection kits. Christiana Care health care professionals will then process the cord blood and ship it to premiere institutions such as Duke University for either research or public and private banking. Public banking is free while private banking costs about $2,000 in each case and generally requires an annual storage fee. Humankind is already experiencing the fruits of

banking. To date, more than 70 different diseases are treated with stem cells from umbilical cord blood, including leukemia, lymphoma and sickle-cell anemia. In terms of medical research, some of the cord blood units collected will be available for research studies that are intended to help improve patient outcomes through The National Cord Blood Inventory. The National Cord Blood Inventory was created as part of the Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Act of 2005. Its goal was to place 150,000 new high-quality cord blood units into the inventory to be made publicly available to potentially save the lives of patients in need of a transplant. In addition, the model developed between Christiana Care and CORD:USE is a unique, homegrown effort. While every other hospital that has partnered with CORD:USE does not have their own dedicated staff directing the program, Christiana Care’s CORD:USE program is overseen by one of its own Labor and Delivery nurses, Kim Petrella, RN.

It might be reasonable to assume that many mothers would jump at the chance to help the human race by banking their cord blood. But of the 4 million births each year in the United States, cord blood is stored in less than 10 percent.

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Christiana Care took this significant step so expectant women can finally have the choice to donate their cord blood in a safe and effective way. Christiana Care is the only health system in Delaware and the Philadelphiaarea that has partnered with CORD:USE and since our launch in June, more than 160 families have chosen to donate their newborn’s cord blood. We look forward to partnering with more expectant mothers through this worthwhile and life-saving program. To learn more about donating your baby’s cord blood and sharing the gift of life with someone in need, visit www.corduse.com. You should always consult with your doctor before making important medical decisions.

A day you’ll always remember. Expert care you’ll never forget. Our moms rely on an experienced health care team that’s prepared for everything, 24 hours a day—every day. You can trust we provide a safe, welcoming experience for mom, baby and the entire family. Caring for moms, newborns and families for generations.

Hospitals must have in place a robust and coordinated collection method in order to properly procure and bank the cord blood. Since the vast majority of the nation’s hospitals do not have such a system in place, many mothers who might happily bank their cord blood are unable to do so. Christiana Care, which offers the full spectrum of

CORD:USE also has been internationally recognized for the reliability of its patented storage kits and it is the only major cord blood banking organization whose CEO also happens to be an obstetrician.

Life. Healing. Caring. www.christianacare.org/baby

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Do You Know Your Numbers? D

o you know your periodontal pocket depth numbers? Do you need to care? You read the articles in the health section of the paper or By: Dr. Grace Liu and in the popular Dr. Lewis Yu women’s magazines, or maybe catch a clip on the “Health Watch” edition of the evening news on the effects of gum disease. Most people disregard the information, because they brush regularly, see their dentist, and may have nice looking teeth. But the fact is that 3 out of 4 people have some form of gum disease ranging from mild to severe. Gum disease is mostly painless, but can be dangerous at any stage. Its destructive power on the jaw bones and other related oral cavity structures has been well-documented. Over the last several years, studies looking at the effects of gum diseases on the vital organs of our body have begun to surface. The systemic implications are more dramatic than just the risk of losing your teeth.

Your mouth is not a separate entity from the rest of your body. The same blood and bacteria that circulate through your mouth and gums also makes its way to your heart and all the other major organs. Research shows that there is an association between gum disease and many chronic inflammatory conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, respiratory disease, and pre-term, low-birth weight babies. Pregnant women with gum disease are seven times more likely to have a baby that is born too early and too small. This is due to a laborinducing chemical that is found in oral bacteria called prostaglandin. People with gum disease are twice as likely to suffer from coronary heart disease and/or exacerbate an existing condition. Diabetic patients are more likely to get gum disease due to their inability to fight infections. Furthermore, gum disease can actually increase blood sugar, increasing their risks for complications. As you can see, gum disease is not something one would want to have a wait and watch attitude, because the repercussions could be severe.

• Have a condition that makes it harder for you to fight infections such as: * Uncontrolled diabetes, AIDS, or cancers * High levels of stress * Poor diet that is low in nutrients

The mouth is a playground for bacteria. Some good, but mostly bad. They hide under our gum line, between the teeth, and in the crevices of the tongue. The longer plaque and tartar remain on the teeth, the more harmful they become. Bacteria cause the gums to become inflamed, red, swollen and bleed easily. These symptoms describe a condition known as gingivitis. Gingivitis is the beginning stages of gum disease. It is very important to realize that it is also the reversible stage. Gingivitis can be easily “knocked out” with diligent home care that includes brushing, flossing and/or Water Pick® use and regular visits to your hygienist. Unfortunately most people think that bleeding gums are totally normal, and ignore this first warning sign of gum disease. As gum disease progresses the gums pull away from the tooth’s root, causing “pockets” that are in fact infected. Deep within these pockets, the bacterial toxins set up their home and literally destroy the supportive bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place. Over time, and without proper treatment, the teeth will eventually become loose and need to be removed. As a diagnostic tool, once a year your hygienist should be taking measurements (in millimeters) of the pockets around each tooth. This is a simple and usually painless screening for possible gum problems. The ideal numbers range between 1 and 3 mm. We use this as a guideline of health because each person is able to clean below their gum line up to 3 mm with normal brushing and flossing.

Dr. Lewis Yu earned his dental degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dentistry in 1996. He received two years of advanced post-graduate oral surgery training in both the New York City Hospital System and the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. He continues his education through extensive hands-on training at the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Studies and the Pankey Institute. The Las Vegas Institute has provided Dr. Yu with advanced training in Neuromuscular Dentistry and Comprehensive Aesthetic Restorations. He had practiced in Philadelphia and Newark, DE before joining All About Smiles, P.A. He is a member of the Delaware State Dental Society, American Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Grace Liu has been practicing dentistry since 1996, having earned her degree from the New York University School of Dentistry. She continued her education through postgraduate studies at Columbia University, the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Studies in Nevada and the Academy of Dentistry. She is also a member of the Delaware State Dental Society, American Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry.

From left to right.: Carla, Lindsay, Lewis, Grace, Patti, Rebekah

All About Smiles, P.A. is conveniently located at 4543 Stoney Batter Road, Wilmington, DE 19808 • 302/239-1641 • Visit the website at www.allaboutsmilesde.com for directions, hours, and more services.

It is also important to understand the risk factors. You are more likely to get gum disease if you: • Do not clean your teeth well • Smoke or chew tobacco • Have a family history of gum disease • Are taking medications that affect your mouth by making it dry • Are experiencing hormonal changes for girls/women 14

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Retinal Vascular Disease – Retinal Vein Occlusion By: Dr. Carolyn Glazer-Hockstein

n ancient proverb states “the eyes are the windows of the soul.” As ophthalmologists, the eyes are our window to the body’s circulation system. We see changes in the blood vessels of the retina that reflect what is occurring throughout the body. The retina is a thin sheet of nerve tissue in the very back of the eye. It has its own distinct blood supply and is one of the most metabolically active tissues in the body. The retina is extremely sensitive to changes that occur in blood vessels. Patients with common medical problems like high blood pressure and diabetes may develop loss of vision. This is related to the changes in blood flow through the retina that these diseases can cause. One of the most common retinal blood vessel diseases (or retinal vascular diseases) is a retinal vein occlusion. Retinal vein occlusion occurs because the veins in the retina become clogged or blood flow becomes interrupted. This blockage can result in permanent damage to the retinal veins. Most often a “thrombus” or blood clot causes the blood vessel occlusion. Patients experience painless vision loss from lack of blood flow to the retina, also known as “ischemia.” Another significant cause of vision loss is “macular edema” or swelling in the center of the retina. Risk factors for the retinal vein occlusions include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, atherosclerosis, blood clotting disorders, and inflammatory diseases. People 50 to 60 years old are most commonly affected. Treatment of retinal vein occlusion begins by controlling any underlying medical problems. It is important for patients to maintain good blood pressure and cholesterol control. Patients with underlying clotting disorders may need to see a hematologist. While it is important for patients to optimally control their medical problems, there are several new treatments which can be targeted at the retina to help patients maintain their best possible vision. Treatments which specifically target the retina are important because no oral medications or eye drops help patients with retinal vein occlusions. Until recently, laser therapy was the only treatment for retinal vein occlusion. Laser therapy can decrease swelling within the retina which help to preserve vision and in some patients can result in visual improvement. Newer treatments include injections of medicine into the vitreous cavity (the gelatinous space in the eye). The most commonly used medications include steroids and vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors (VEGF inhibitors). VEGF is a protein that is abnormally high in the eye of patients with retinal vein occlusions. It causes abnormal new blood vessel growth (neovascularization) and causes blood vessels to leak fluid into the retina resulting in blurry vision. Patients typically require a series of anti-VEGF injections every four to six weeks. Another injectable medicine is triamcinolonc, a steroid which is very effective in decreasing swelling and blood vessel leakage within the eye. Osurdex is a longer acting steroid implant which can also be used to treat retinal vein occlusions. The Osurdex implant is inserted into the eye in the

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office under local anesthetic and can be effective in the treatment of retinal vein occlusions. During the past few years many patients have benefited from these treatments for retinal vascular disease. With the new powerful arsenal of intravitreal medications, retinal specialists not only preserve vision but allow maximum visual outcomes. Treatment may require ongoing care but with these new therapies, we can help to prevent blindness.

Dr. Carolyn Glazer-Hockstein & Dr. Paula Ko

Dr. Glazer-Hockstein graduated Cum Laude Dr. Carolyn Glazer-Hockstein and Dr. Paula Ko from Jefferson Medical College. She was a member of the Hobart Armory Hare Honor Medical Society are retina specialists at Eye Physicians and and was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Surgeons who are committed to helping patients Society. She also received the Carol R. Mullen prize with AMD and other retinal diseases. If you in ophthalmology. She completed her residency at would like to learn more about AMD or to the Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania. schedule an appointment call (302) 652-3353. During that time she was elected Chief Resident. After residency, Dr. Glazer-Hockstein completed a two years medical retina fellowship at the Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Glazer-Hockstein has published multiple articles in peer-review journals and has lectured on a variety of retinal disease subjects. Her specialization includes but is not limited to: macular degeneration, retinal vascular disease, and diabetic retinopathy. Paula C. Ko, MD is with Eye Physicians & Surgeons, P.A., 1207 North Scott Street, Wilmington, DE 19806. Dr. Ko graduated with honors from the Ohio State University College of Engineering in 1984. Dr. Ko received her M.D. degree from the Ohio State University College of Medicine in 1989, again with honors. Following her residency in Ophthalmology at Temple, Dr. Ko served a prestigious fellowship at Georgetown University in diseases of the retina and vitreous, and is Certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology. Dr. Ko has an area of special expertise in retinal problems, especially diabetic eye disease, macular degeneration, retinal detachment, and CMV retinitis. Dr. Ko has lectured extensively, and has published many papers on these topics. Dr. Ko is active in resident training, and is on staff at the University of MD and Temple University, as well as at the Medical Center of DE. Dr. Ko is at the

forefront of ophthalmic technology, and utilizes the most advanced procedures, including laser treatment and intraocular injections, in the care of her patients.

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Help, My Eyelids Have Fallen!

Ari D. Abel, MD

Bryan D. Seiff, MD

The most common patient complaint we hear in oculofacial plastic surgery is about “droopy eyelids”.

ut what does a patient mean when he or she complains that the eyelids are “drooping”? What treatments are available to correct this problem? And when does this “drooping” cease to be a cosmetic concern and become a true functional problem? In order to understand this problem and how to fix it, we must first define what is meant by “droopy eyelids”. This complaint may mean different things to different people, and identifying a patient’s specific concern is important because the techniques for fixing these problems will differ accordingly. True “droopy eyelids”, referred to as Ptosis in the medical literature, occur when the eyelid lifting muscle or its corresponding tendon is weakened and the lid itself (Fig 1A) hangs lower than normal (Fig 1A). Ptosis may be caused by dysfunction of the eyelid muscle or the nerve which supplies it, but is most commonly a result of wear and tear on the tendon. If the eyelid hangs low enough it may obscure the pupil, thereby affecting the patient’s peripheral vision. Dermatochalasis is a condition in which the eyelid skin has thinned and lost its elasticity and subsequently hangs over the eyelashes and lid margin (Fig 2A). As this tissue thins, fat may also begin to prolapse into the upper eyelid space. Once these tissues have descended past the lid margin, they (Fig 2A)

can obstruct the patient’s peripheral vision. They may also displace the eyelashes downward and cause irritation of the eye. In certain cases, this condition can be worsened by gravitational descent of the thicker eyebrow tissue, pushing the eyelid tissues even further down. When ptosis or dermatochalasis becomes severe enough, it can obstruct the patient’s peripheral vision and begin to affect his or her daily activities. Common complaints include difficulty with driving or reading. These are more noticeable at night as ambient light levels decrease, and as compensatory forehead and accessory lifting muscles begin to fatigue. Many patients will state that they can see better when manually elevating their eyelids. In order to document these changes, photographs can be taken which demonstrate obstruction of the pupil by the eyelid or by redundant skin. In addition, visual field testing can be performed to document the degree of visual field loss. Patients that do not have any visual complaints but wish to improve the overall appearance of their eyelids may choose to undergo these procedures on an elective basis. Correction of drooping eyelids is usually surgical. Ptosis is corrected by tightening the eyelid muscle and its corresponding tendon, either through an external incision at the eyelid crease or an internal incision on the underside of the eyelid (Fig 1B). Dermatochalasis (Fig 1B) is improved by removing the redundant eyelid tissue through a lid crease incision, a procedure known as a blepharoplasty (Fig 2B). If the brow has descended and is contributing to the drooping eyelid, it can be lifted at the same time. These procedures are performed on (Fig2B) an outpatient basis, usually under light to moderate sedation. Patients are advised to avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for approximately one week, but may otherwise resume their normal activities, including driving, the very next day. Ice is used for several days to minimize bruising, and ointment is placed on the incisions for approximately 2-3 weeks to aid in healing. Stiches dissolve or are removed at one week. Both Drs. Abel and Seiff are Oculofacial Plastic surgeons, meaning they specialize in the delicate tissues of the eyelid and surrounding structures.

If you think you may be a candidate for any of these procedures, or would like any information regarding other services available, they can be contacted at the 16

Abel Center for Oculofacial Plastic Surgery at 302-998-3220. Dr Abel is one of approximately 400 Oculofacial Plastic Surgeons in the United States. An Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon is Board Certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and a Fellow of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Dr. Abel is also a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. He specializes in the treatment of eyelid, brow and other facial dysfunctions. He is skilled in the removal of tumors and the repair of ocular and facial trauma. He has many years of experience in aesthetic facial surgery, skin rejuvenation, as well as Botox and wrinkle fillers. Dr. Abel received his medical degree from Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia, PA and completed his residency in Ophthalmology at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD. He conducted a two-year fellowship in Ophthalmic and Facial Plastic Surgery at the Albany Medical Center in Albany, NY. Dr. Abel also has a profound interest in medical missions for developing countries, which most recently included trips to India and Nepal. Dr. Seiff is one of approximately 400 Oculofacial Plastic Surgeons in the United States. An Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon is Board Certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and a Fellow of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He specializes in the treatment of eyelid, brow and other facial dysfunctions. He is skilled in the removal of tumors and the repair of ocular and facial trauma. Dr. Seiff also has a strong interest in aesthetic care. This area of his practice includes aesthetic facial surgery, skin rejuvenation, as well as Botox and wrinkle fillers. Dr. Seiff graduated first in his medical school class at UMDNJ and completed his ophthalmology training at Cornell. He then completed his two-year oculoplastic fellowship at Univ. California-San Francisco.

1941 Limestone Rd., Suite 200 Wilmington, DE 19808 205 Laurel Heights Dr. Bridgeton, NJ 08302 Starting in Dover this fall

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Role Of Age And Gender In The Early Recognition O Of Heart Attack Victims ptimal treatment for heart attack victims is based on early recognition and institution of therapy, particularly reperfusion. However, our ability to institute treatment rapidly is determined by how quickly we recognize the presence of the heart attack (myocardial infarction/ MI). Typically, chest pain is the initial symptom alerting us to the possibility of an MI. However, it is possible to suffer a heart attack without chest pain. It now appears age and gender impact the likelihood of this scenario. A study was published this month in the Journal of

the American Medical Association evaluating this phenomenon and its consequences. This registry study included over one million heart attack patients and evaluated for the presence or absence of chest pain. The results are striking. Over one-third (35.4%) of all MI patients presented without chest pain. However, the percentage was significantly higher for women than men (42% vs. 30%). (In addition, lack of chest pain was more likely in diabetics). The patients without chest pain were less likely to receive reperfusion therapy such as thrombolytics (clot busting medications)

or percutaneous intervention (balloon or stent). They also were less likely to receive appropriate medical therapy such as aspirin, beta blockers, etc. This delay translated into a significantly higher mortality rates for women compared to men (14.6% vs. 10.3%). The mortality difference was greatest in younger women (less than age 55) suggesting the absence of chest pain in young women with MI is an important predictor of survival. Interestingly, these differences tended to dissipate with increasing age. This variance may be explained by different

Are You At Risk? It is very important to be evaluated for vascular disease if you have increased risk

Common risks include:

aDiabetes aSmoking aFamily history of Vascular Disease aFamily History of Aortic Aneurysm aCoronary Artery Disease aUncontrollable hypertension aElevated cholesterol Twelve million people in the United States have Peripheral Arterial Disease At Cardiology Physicians, P.A. We Are Performing Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Latest Testing

Cardiology Physicians, P.A. Abby Medical Center Suite 200 One Centurian Drive Newark, De 19713 302 366 8600 Foulkstone Plaza Suite 201 1401 Foulk Road Wilmington, De 19803 302 478 5055 WWW.CARDIOCPPA.COM Top Row (L to R): Dr. Clay, Dr. Pastore, Dr. Kelly, Dr. Sarter, Dr. Micklin Bottom Row (L to R): Dr. Furey, Dr. Leidig, Dr. Rahman

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pathophysiology of younger vs. older women with heart attacks. It has been postulated that younger woman with an MI typically have less narrowing of the coronary arteries with concomitant hypercoagulability, inflammation, spasm or plaque erosion/rupture creating the event. This scenario is particularly more common in young female smokers. This study raises an important question in how to accurately diagnose a heart attack without the presence of chest pain, particularly in young females.

Recognition of atypical symptoms such as shortness of breath, nausea, indigestion, diaphoresis (sweating), pain in other areas (back, neck, jaw, shoulder) is important. Smoking cessation is critical. Physician awareness of the possibility of heart attack in young women and the fact that it is quite common for them not to have chest pain will aid in earlier recognition and institution of therapy which, in turn, will lead to better outcomes. Ultimately, however, further research is needed to improve our understanding of the pathophysiology of these differences and provide the general public and physicians with the best information to allow them to seek early recognition and treatment. In the meantime, patients and physicians should remain vigilant in evaluation of all patients at risk, even with atypical symptoms, particularly the young female who is more likely to present in this fashion.

Meet the Physicians of Cardiology Physicians P.A. ALAN MICKLIN, M.D., F.A.C.C. Dr. Alan Micklin joined Cardiology Physicians, P.A. in July of 2006. He began his studies as an undergraduate biology major at the University of Delaware and graduated in 1986. He then went on to attend the Hahnemann University Dr. Alan Micklin, School of Medicine M.D., F.A.C.C. from 1986 to 1990. Upon his graduation in 1990, he started his residency in Internal Medicine at Hahnemann University. He began his fellowship in cardiovascular disease at Hahnemann in 1993 and was the chief cardiology fellow from 1994-1995. Dr. Micklin is certified in internal medicine and cardiovascular disease, as well as interventional cardiology. He has also been certified to perform nuclear cardiology procedures since 1996 and is certified to interpret vascular ultrasound studies. Dr. Micklin specializes in both nuclear and interventional cardiology and had been practicing since 1996 in Charlotte, North Carolina before joining Cardiology Physicians. At the University of Delaware he was a member of the Phi Beta Kappa and at Hahnemann University he was a member of Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Societies. He also received a commendation for Superior Performance during his residency at Hahnemann. Some of his clinical responsibilities include nuclear stress testing, echocardiography, and vascular ultrasound. As an interventional cardiologist, Dr. Micklin also performs diagnostic cardiac catheterization including intravascular ultrasound as well as stent placement and angioplasty. He has a strong commitment to inpatient and outpatient clinical patient care. Dr. Mickin is married with three children. Both he and his wife attended the University of Delaware and were members of the Class of 1986. Hobbies include boating, skiing and golf.

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Less Pain, Faster Recovery With Robotic Surgery For Pelvic Organ Prolapse lot like your television set at home. The latest alternative is robotic surgery, an option that offers small incisions, more precision, often quicker recovery and less pain - when compared with traditional surgery.

By Babak Vakili, M.D. Babak Vakili, M.D., is the director of the Center for Urogynecology and Pelvic Surgery. Dr. Vakili is a fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. He completed a fellowship in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery at the Louisiana State University Health Science Center in New Orleans, LA.

raditionally, patients with severe cases of pelvic organ prolapse (female pelvic organs fall from their normal position) often had major open surgery that included a long, painful recovery time – commonly a month or two. More recently, laparoscopic surgery has become available. Performed through small incisions using a thin, lighted tube, the surgeon is able to see inside the body. The incisions are smaller and the recovery quicker, but laparoscopic surgery still has challenges because the instruments used are long and stiff. In a laparoscopy, the surgeon’s view inside the body is two-dimensional, a

Patients are often confused by the term “robot” when they hear about robotic surgery. This technology allows them to heal faster and encounter less pain. In robotic surgery, the doctor is seated at a console operating the robot. He or she can view the body in three dimensions, like a 3-D movie, and get a more accurate picture of what is going on inside the body. Many women who avoided an operation to address severe prolapse are now finding relief through this advanced treatment.

The best of both worlds

When we talk about robotic surgery, I frequently hear the following question: Is a machine going to perform my operation? The answer is no. Your doctor is in charge of the surgery at all times, controlling the technology. Robotic surgery offers the best of both worlds. It combines the precision of advanced technology with the wisdom, experience and compassion of a real-life surgeon. The key to successful robotic surgery is finding a doctor who has a lot

of experience. Becoming an expert in a high-tech medical procedure is a lot like baking a perfect cake or painting a beautiful portrait. The more times we do something the better we get at it.

Bladder problems shouldn’t keep you from the things you enjoy most in life.

At the Christiana Care Center for Urogynecology and Pelvic Surgery, we perform about 130 robotic surgeries each year to help women with prolapse. That is an average of 2.5 robotic surgeries a week. I’ve been performing these surgeries since 2006 and I can share with you, from personal experience, that patients almost always have less pain and recover faster. That is because the robot allows me to focus very precisely on the area in need of repair without damaging the surrounding tissue. The tip of the robotic instrument acts as an extension of my hand. Because it is much smaller than the human hand, only a tiny cut is needed to get inside the body. The robot’s arms also can turn 360 degrees, meaning it is as flexible as a human wrist.

Let us help you get back to what really matters.

302-623-4055

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Plus, the robot has three functioning arms, in addition to a fourth arm that holds the camera. Surgeons often wish they had an extra arm, but we only have two. This is an example of new technology that has truly made a difference. You should always consult with your doctor before making important medical decisions.

Christiana Hospital Medical Arts Pavilion 2 4735 Ogletown-Stanton Road, Suite 1208 Newark, DE 19713 Christiana Care Center of Women’s Health 3706 Kennett Pike, Greenville, DE 19807 Smyrna Health & Wellness Center 100 South Main Street, Suite 215, Smyrna, DE 19977 302-623-4055 www.christianacare.org/urogynecology 18

Emily K. Saks, M.D., MSCE, is a urogynecologist with the Christiana Care Center for Urogynecology and Pelvic Surgery. Dr. Saks completed a residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Pennsylvania Hospital in Philadelphia and has completed a fellowship in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.

Howard B. Goldstein, D.O., MPH, is a fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. He completed a fellowship in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery at Cooper University Hospital in Camden, NJ. He currently serves as the Director of Research and Education for the Division of Urogynecology. www.TheWomensJournal.com

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Got Neck Pain? A New Study Shows Chiropractic Care And Simple Home Care Works Better Than Prescriptions

new study published on January 3, 2012 By: in The Annals Dr. Katie Schuler D.C. of Internal Medicine demonstrates the power of alternative therapies for neck pain. Participants in the study were divided into three groups: one group made regular visits to the chiropractor, one group received traditional drug therapy, and the third group was instructed on how to perform therapeutic exercises at home to combat their neck pain. At the end of 12 weeks, it was clear participants who engaged in non-drug therapy fared better than those who received painkillers. In the chiropractic group, 57 percent of individuals reported at least a 75 percent reduction in pain. In the home exercise group, 48 percent reported similar pain relief. However, only 33 percent of the painkiller group saw such results. The long term benefits are equally impressive. Even one year later, patients in the chiropractic and home exercise groups were still experiencing benefits. About 53 percent in each of these groups still saw at least a 75 percent reduction in pain. In the painkiller group, only 38 percent reported this kind of pain relief. Besides being less effective, the painkiller group was also increasing their medication over time, which can lead to more serious side effects. Sure, you can numb the pain if you take enough Vicodin, Soma or some other pill. But the real problem is while you make it through the day all “numbed” up, you are likely injuring your neck even more without even knowing it. No matter where you are with your neck pain, whether you’re having unrelenting pain and facing surgery or you just injured it yesterday chiropractic care and exercises prescribed by you chiropractor can help. Upon visiting a chiropractor you will receive a thorough exam and usually a set of x-rays to determine the alignment, any degeneration and the amount of nerve irritation you may have.

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: • • • • • • • • • •

Family Care Neck and Back Pain Sciatica Sports Injuries Migraine and Tension Headaches Muscle Sprains and Strains Numbness/Stiffness Personal Injury Motor Vehicle Accidents Whiplash

Dr. Katie Schuler Doctor of Chiropractic Synergy Chiropractic 807 N. Union St. Wilmington, DE 19805 302-777-0778 www.synergy-chiro.com

“I am so happy I discovered Dr. Katie and chiropractic care! I started getting regular adjustments for headaches and burning back pain related to stress from work. I quickly learned the numerous benefits of chiropractic care to maintain overall health and wellness. I continued to receive regular adjustments throughout two pregnancies and attribute smooth deliveries and decreased back pain to the care I received from Synergy. Currently my toddler and infant recieve regular adjustments as well. Chiropractic care has helped them with reflux, constipation and ear issues naturally. As a parent, I feel reassured that I am exposing my children to a natural medicine vs. the standard drugs.” ~ Jennifer Trieval – school teacher

“Chiropractic care continues to improve my life! I have significantly more range of motion in my neck and much, much less pain! There are stretches of time when I am pain free, and my dancing is better and easier too! Thank You Synergy Chiropractic!”~ Bonnie Reese – Nurse and Belly Dancer

Dr. Holly Scaro D.C.

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Sugar: Toxic & Disease Causing ~The Not So Sweet Truth

eight loss resistance can occur when you develop or already have a preexisting metabolic imbalance that makes losing excess weight and maintaining your results nearly impossible, even when you are trying hard to eat less and exercise more. You don’t feel good about your weight or appearance, and you don’t feel good about yourself. While most of us on a weight loss mission concentrate on lowering fat intake, many of us fail to consider the role refined sugar plays in contributing to our growing waistlines. Although we are concentrating on eating healthier and avoiding foods high in sugar, most processed sugars are often hidden under different terms on the packaging. Sugar can be identified as maltose, glucose, dextrose, fructose, sucrose, molasses and even honey. With no value to us nutritionally, sugar is basically an empty calorie. Because sugar contains no essential

vitamins or minerals, we are simply stealing from our bodies’ other sources in order to break down the sugar, instead of burning fat and building muscle. Hence, we are taking away from our fat burning ability, just to counteract the useless calories we have just ingested. Not only does sugar contain no nutritional value for us, it also causes our blood sugar levels to rise dramatically by a sudden drop in insulin. This leaves us feeling low and lethargic. We also feel hungry (often for something more sweet) to accommodate for the loss in energy, which then drives us to eat more than what we need, but without the energy or motivation to burn it off.

Sugar and Weight Loss

Sugar and Disease

Want to lose weight? ELIMINATE SUGAR. It is detrimental to achieving your ideal body. As yummy as fruit is, it has to be limited to one piece a day. If you are going to have it, make sure it is in the morning. There are a host of other foods that turn into sugar in your bloodstream. Some include processed, refined white and wheat flour, rice, white potatoes and most simple carbohydrates. These sugar-forming foods should also be eliminated in any weight loss effort. From a weight loss perspective, we know that sugar:

Additionally, it is believed that an excessive consumption of sugar plays a role in the formation of many diseases.

•

• So avoid sugar like the plague, it is NOT good for you! In fact, processed sugars are completely void of any benefit to our body. Instead, look for food that is high in the nutrients that your body craves. The body changes sugar into 2 to 5 times more fat in the bloodstream than it does starch.

Dr. Heather Rooks, DC, Executive Director At PATH Integrative Health Center, Dr. Rooks uses Functional Medicine, an integrative approach to helping people overcome diabetes, hypothyroidism, weight loss resistance, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, and other conditions for health recovery and restoration. She is skilled and experienced at finding and addressing the root physiological, biochemical, hormonal and neurological imbalances causing the poor health status of people today. www.TheWomensJournal.com

•

Can add a lot of empty calories to our diet. Increases our blood sugar and insulin levels which can cause our bodies to begin storing and stop burning fat. Can cause an insulin drop (following a surge) which can leave us feeling tired and hungry (usually for something else very sweet) . This also sets the stage for insulin resistance and diabetes, long term, if habitual. Needs valuable vitamins and minerals to digest, which our bodies draw from existing stores reserved for other roles- such as fat burning and muscle building. May replace other foods that are high in vitamins, minerals and other important nutrients in our diet.

•

Suppressing the immune system~contributing to a weakened defense against bacterial infection

•

Causing kidney damage

•

Acidic pH~a cancer precursor

•

Upsetting the body’s mineral balance

•

Contributing to hyperactivity, anxiety and depression

•

Increasing the risk of coronary heart disease

•

Interfering with the absorption of calcium and magnesium

•

Cause of obesity and diabetes

•

Contributing to osteoporosis

Are you doing everything right, but don’t know what’s wrong? Learn how our new personalized weight loss and body-contouring program can help restore your health and create the conditions you need for permanent weight loss. A Personalized Program ~ naturally effective, simple and proven! Call NOW to schedule a free consultation 484-775-0550 or e-mail NoMoreW8@pathhealthcenter.com

Dr. Heather Rooks, DC PATH Integrative Health Center Suite 3, 98 Wilmington-West Chester Pike (Rt. 202) Chadds Ford, PA 19317 484-775-0550 info@PathHealthCenter.com www.PathHealthCenter.com Call today for a complimentary consultation 21

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Breath of Life: Change Your Life with Proper Breathing oxygen and disease has now been firmly established.”

as a source of mental clarity, stillness, and connection to a higher source. In the yogic text Hatha Yoga Padipika, it is said that Publisher’s “When the Note: breath wanders the mind also is unsteady. But when the “When I is first thought about taking breath calmed the mind too will Aerial Yoga I was assuming that be still, and the yogi achieves long it would be hard, and that there life. Therefore, one should learn to was no way that I could do any of control the breath.”

The Power of Yoga

The significance of oxygen to health enhanced is not a new discovery. In balance, injury-free muscles spine Warburg 1931 Dr. Otto and Heinrich Spiritually: improve deepen received the Nobel Prize and for proving your relationship with the that cancer cells cannot live in the world itself, mindfulness & an presence of oxygen. The cancer cell appreciation of your life for It is is the “arch criminal” of cancer. what cell, it is right now,very connect to a common nothing special your true self, find that place of until it begins to change from lack stillness within yourself, closer of oxygen. Dr. Warburg showed to Spirit that the “cause of cancer is the Emotionally: balancing hormones By: Heather Shafer, CYT replacement the respiration leads toofemotional stability of & Director, Kaya Wellness & Yoga By: Heather Shafer, CYT oxygenmore in the normal body cells by balanced moods, relieve Director, Kaya Wellness & Yoga depressionof&sugar”. anxiety, reduced “Which class is going to a fermentation

challenge me more?

cortisol (cortisol is known as

n every yoga class that I teach science, the critical the “stress hormone” because I really want to feel the burn.”In medical I emphasize the importance of role of itoxygen has been is activated when shown. you are breath to my students. nourishes cells, creates create a sense of calm creeeeech…wait, stop…. Oxygenstressed”, energy,&combats fatigue, breaks peace This is a tale-tale sign that “Disease cannot live where down waste products and toxins, Anyone who has exercised someone needs yoga. Not more there is oxygen,” I always attest provides energy to knows thatneeded simply exercising exercise and more challenging as I encourage students to flood the metabolize carbohydrates, regulates will aid in physical & emotional poses, but good ‘ole yoga. Yoga body with fresh in fullso yogic balance, but layered with thatoxygen encompasses much more body chemistry PHwhen balance, creates breaths. proper yogic breath, intention, than asanas (physical postures). immune system defense and fights & energetic exercise, Yoga that creates change; off invading hostilecontrol, organisms. Far from rote catch phrases,

emotional, spiritual, & physical.

and everything else in your

this principalYoga could be the most life is transformed into the that takes you deeper, The importance of breathing important, life changing action. sacred artbe of stressed yoga. without creating injury. properly cannot Consider the fact weyoga can has go come to Washing the dishes, running, In that the US enough. Whether fatigue, without food mean for weeks, and without doingimmune laundry; all of these have asanas or fitness. If yoga irratibility, deficiency, or water for days, but cannot go for workout, the potential to beto yoga. is limited to a physical if you are just looking maintain a few minutes without oxygen. So experience yogain in your a you are missing whatAs yoga ishealth, increasing oxygen the importanttruly yogic text Science of spiritual space and learn the about and diminishing body should be a high priority. Breath simplifies, “To breathe is has to to sacred art of yoga so that you what traditional yoga live, and without can carry this off to of your offer. breath there is no Learning to breathe full mat life...Life is but aYoga series of breaths.” and transform all of the areas is translated as “yoke” capacity, along with regular of your life. This attitude of (Ramacharaka or 2008) “union”, describing the physical movement provided by

it (I am almost 60 yrs. old). I also Enter Kaya to open your practice assumed that many I had toschools be reallyof yoga There are & still your mind…. strong and limber. I was totally that offer an interconnection of wrong: From the very beginning it Beach Yoga 7 Days/Wk breath to postures, and philosophy. was fun, enjoyable, & allowed me Allow your true Day colors It is important to find a studio Memorial Day-Labor to go in to yoga poses that I never to blossom. and teacher that resonates with had been able to do in regular Ocean & Swedes St, Dewey Beach you. So, do your research and floor yoga. ~PJ www.KayaWellnessCenter.com

8 am - 9 am find a place where you can focus or email your mind, deepen your practice, Beach 302-227-3450 Yoga $11 cash-only or info@kayawellnesscenter.com and soak in the vital benefits of a KayaWellnessCenter.com NEW this year breath-based practice. 10-pack of beach yoga for $100 302-227-3450 &theYoga (availableKaya with cc inWellness studio, or cash on beach) or email Private pranayama (breath) 301 Rehoboth Avenue info@kayawellnesscenter.com classes are available, along with Rehoboth Beach, DE Unlimited Studio Classes group yoga & aerial yoga classes 3 months for $300 Kaya Wellness & Yoga that are based Beach, in breath or 4 months for $350 Rehoboth DE in a variety This article is not intended as of styles are available. For more medical advice. Please consult your information, please contact the Find Yourself... Private Instructionhealth care provider before beginning studio at 302-227-3450 or email at Kaya Beach, Studio, or Your Location any new fitness regimen. info@kayawellnesscenter.com.

Find Yourself...

learning, enjoying and growing integration of mind and body to yoga classes, whether they be But we all know to breathe. from every experience that life create how a greater connection with vigorous or gentle, help to It’s innate, right? we are born nature. throws at you will translates to an one’s True, own pure, essential counteract, balance, harmonize with the ability to breathe, butthe spiritual, amazing outlook in everyday life It encompasses protect the human body how to breathe fully, completely outside of the Yoga studio. It emotional, & physical is bodies.and help It may also just helpabout to allows you to handle Trying sweat your way from disease. something that mosttoWesterners various diseases anything lifeexisting brings with a sense a leaner breathing form rarely alleviate forget how tointo do. Shallow and health challenges. of calmness, confidence and true works without addressing that is commonplace from stress

inner peace. thelives emotional and spiritual and fast-paced poses a serious CoupledLet with phsyical movement, go of your conditioning bodies. For true transformation, threat to health. classes at that a workout has tooffered be painful all of these bodies must be the breath-based Kaya Wellness & Yoga in Rehoboth to be effective to ensure that prioritized & balanced, which Yoga in itself is beneficial because Beach, DEare teach students how you not diminishing the full involves drawing your yoga off of the physical movement creates to breathe properly, fully, that potential of your yoga so practice. mat, & into oxygenation. your Many styles of every yoga,aspect of you can maintain health and Kaya is dedicated to creating your life. Once inducted into this including Kripalu-based and a sacred space towith encourage yogic Yoga, philosophy, the term “Live increase your energy simple VaihAyasa Aerial are breathstudents to find their True Self. Your Yoga” will allow you to flow techniques. At first, breathing based practices, that not only teach Join us take in-studio forand classes or with your life withbut much lessproperly will work you how to breath properly, privatealong sessions yoga or aerial dedication, withinpatience, that also offereffort. techniques to more yoga, and on the beach for daily I have experienced and but over time breathing to full fully permeate the body with fresh Beach Yoga (Memorial Day-Labor witnessed in my students a capacity will become a natural state oxygen. Day).influencing your health myriad of benefits from a deeper of breath, yoga Way practice more than I could Dr. W. Spencer writes positively without effort. have ever imagined in the Journal of the Americanfrom exercise *This article does not serve as medical advice or to diagnosis. Please seek the In addition the health Association ofalone. Physicians, Physically: increased flexibility, advice of a medial professional before connection of the physical act of “Insufficient oxygen means increased muscle strength & beginning any new routine. Statements breathing properly, along with the insufficient biological energy that tone, improved energy & vitality, herein have not been evaluated by the physical movement of asanas (yoga can result in anything from mild weight reduction, controlled FDA & are from the author’s personal & fatigue to a life-threatening disease. postures), breath is importantly blood pressure, improved sleep, student experience. The link between insufficient linked into many schools of yoga

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Strengthen Your Immune System: Live Boldly!

By Lisa Torbert, MS, QRA Practitioner, Hypnotherapist Yoga Instructor

Sinus Detox $65 Pure volcanic mud that is warmed and placed upon the sinus areas of the face to help detoxify, drain and remove toxins from the sinuses.

connective tissue to help relieve chronically tense areas. Regain flexibility with an Active Isolated Stretching massage, intense relaxation and reduction of pain.

Reflexology $65 A soothing, unique one-hour technique which massages pressure points on the foot reflex areas relieving stress, improving blood supply, and helping your body achieve balance and harmony.

The Beauty Massage Uplifting, Soothing, and Renewing. Experience tranquility with our delightful massage and spa packages. Our Mini, Maxi, and Ultimate Spa packages are a luxurious and well deserved treat.

CranioSacral $65 Manipulates and massages the skull to treat conditions such as headaches, ear infections, tension and stress.

The Healing Massage Lymphatic Drainage Massage encourage natural drainage of the lymph from the tissue space. Medi-cupping is a vacuum therapy that uses cups to pull toxins from tissue. Myofascial Massage stretches muscles and connective tissue.

ry these holistic and natural therapies to help you through the cold and allergy season: Chinese Ear Candling $50 Removal of earwax that releases pressure in the ear canal by removing earwax and pollen, relieving discomfort of sinus congestion and headaches. Sinus Therapy $50 Relief of sinus pressure and congestion by use of steam, eucalyptus and gentle massage to help open up the lymph nodes to drain sinus area. Acupuncture $65 Decongest and relieve the sinus area by removing mucus with strategically placed needles inserted just under the skin. QRA Testing $100 A highly effective test that has the ability to identify and eliminate the “root of the problem.” It includes specific testing techniques to find and help remove infections.

Help keep Delaware warm this season . Clean out your closets! October 1-15th Give us your unwanted coats, scarves, hats, and gloves for those who really need it. Receive 10$ off a Warm Bamboo or Stone massage for your generous donations! www.TheWomensJournal.com

Supplement of the Month! One of our many natural supplements that strengthen the immune system is our ever-popular Cat’s Claw Immune. Made from the bark of the cats claw tree, the supplement is infused with alfalfa, green tea, and olive leaf extract, including other substances that strengthen our bodies against the harsh threats of the autumn, making Cat’s Claw the must-have supplement of the season!

Which massage is right for you?

The Cosmic Massage Heal using your personal life force through Chakra work, Reiki, and Aviana; during energy work, the massage therapist transfers the universes energy into the client’s body. Acupressure uses light touch to unclog your body’s energy meridians. The Nature Massage Harness the strength and energy of the forest to provide a deep and heated massage with a Warm Bamboo or Warm Stone massage. Replenish your body with the earth’s natural treasures with a Mud Detox or Body Wrap, using the purest substances on earth. The Sporty Massage Enter the next level of fitness with a Deep Tissue massage. Realign deeper layers of muscle and 23

The Expectant Mother Massage Our private rooms include massage tables with areas removed to accommodate and relax both mom and baby. Pregnancy Massage is a great way to relax, increase your energy and relieve discomfort during your pregnancy.

Benefits of Massage:

• Relax and heal damaged muscle • Increase range of motion • Relieve pain from muscle tension, fractures, sprains, etc. • Flush toxins from the muscle and tissue • Alleviate emotional and physical stress

Types of Massage: • • • • • • •

Deep tissue Swedish Pregnancy Lymphatic Drainage Acupressure Reflexology Active Isolated Stretching

Heather’s Holistic Health

302-678-3433 heathersholistichealth@yahoo.com 1169 Walker Rd Dover, DE, 19904

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fitness&lifestyle

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Consider Safety When Selecting A Pilates Instructor

Clients need to consider workout safety, regardless of whether they are attending a mat class or doing individual work on the apparatus. A qualified Pilates instructor recognizes an individual’s limitations, including situations such as pregnancy, post-injury or surgery recovery, and specific chronic or acute issues. By Nancy Hawkins Rigg Founder and Owner, Forever Fit Foundation

h, summer where did you go? Fall is upon us, moving us faster than we’d like into the holiday season, cooler weather and comfort food. As the days grow short and the nights longer, it becomes easier to nest, to avoid exercise, to eat more and move less. But, as we know, easy is not always the best choice. No matter what the season, having a fitness plan in place can help anyone stay on track. After all, eventually spring rolls around again, and no one wants to peel off the layers of winter clothing to reveal weight gain and an out-ofshape body. So what’s a girl to do? Connect with your trainer. Make a plan to practice Pilates several times a week, then support that plan with regular cardio activity and healthy eating practices. Pilates is an efficient and reliable system of exercise, which trains the body and the mind by strengthening and toning muscles. But there’s more to Pilates than just hitting the gym and going through the motions. Although Pilates is advertised at many sites and even available on DVDs, it’s best practiced and learned with a qualified trainer. Be sure to use one who is credentialed to balance the mind/ body components specific to an individual’s needs. And your trainer can make your workout fun, rather than a chore.

Keep in mind that the term “Pilates” is considered generic, just like yoga or football or gymnastics, and that means that anyone can offer to teach Pilates, regardless of their training or experience.

Practice offers the balance and focus needed to survive holiday challenges

After all, it takes a strong, focused mind to resist that Halloween candy or an extra piece of pie. Pilates students recognize that the practice also offers balance, strengthening, calming, focus, and precise control, no matter what the season.

Nancy Hawkins Riggs is the founder and owner of Forever Fit Foundation, a personal training business specializing in Pilates, Gyrotonic, Gyrokinesis, Yamuna Body Rolling and sport

specific training. Forever Fit Foundation accepts clients at three sites: Dover and Lewes, Del., and Mendenhall Station, Pa., just over the Delaware line. A certified athletic trainer, she earned her bachelors degree from the University of Delaware and her master’s degree in exercise science and sports medicine from Miami University in Ohio. Please call (302) 423-1816 or (302) 6985201 to schedule an appointment for more information.

Some locations offer a Pilates mat class, but don’t be fooled into thinking that the absence of Pilates apparatus translates into easier, safer or more effective workouts. That’s definitely not the case. In fact, although the apparatus may look intimidating, it may offer variations and support to the benefit of a client - particularly if that client is new to Pilates or recovering from an injury. Those who are familiar with the basic concepts of Pilates know that this exercise system challenges students to use their core, or powerhouse, and by doing so provides a foundation for life’s functional activities. Since the core, or center of the body, includes the front and back of the torso between the thighs and armpits, clients who regularly practice Pilates exercises develop longer, stronger and leaner muscles. Clients frequently say their first goal is to lose weight, but success is not always measured by numbers on the scale. In a Pilates studio, success comes from lengthening, strengthening and developing a more functional body by working against resistance. Bodies respond rather quickly to these mental and physical challenges. The result: Stronger bodies and minds that are ready to deal effectively with the challenges of the upcoming holiday season. 24

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fitness&lifestyle

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ONCOLOGY MASSAGE – Does it make a difference?

Oncology Massage has definitely gained creditability. In 2003/2004 when studying Massage Therapy, I was told not By JoanVeselack-Gennarini, LMT to massage O WNER OF R EKINDLED S PIRITS Cancer Patients. Massage Therapy was thought to spread cancer by applying pressure through massage strokes to the muscle tissues. This pressure would push cancer cells to other areas of the body known as metastasis. Talk about putting the fear into a Massage Therapist. Cancer was definitely a contraindication for Massage Therapy in 2003. Thank goodness to research in the past decade that has determined genetic alterations are the driving forces behind metastasis. Pressure alone does not cause a cancer tumor to become invasive. The science behind the cellular structure of cancer cells and its DNA will not be discussed, but many articles have been prepared on this subject matter. In 1992, Touch Research Institute (TRI) was established by Tiffany Field, Ph.D. at the University of Miami School, of Medicine with a start-up grant from Johnson & Johnson. Several studies have been conducted from 2000 to 2012 to determine the benefits, if any, by applying Massage Therapy to Cancer Patients. TRI studies have produced beneficial results with both controlled and random group testing. Beneficial Results range from reduced anxiety, depressed mood, anger and stress levels to improved sleep quality.

MASSAGE THERAPY BENEFITS

A simple TRI study of Foot Massages applied by nursing staff in 2000 to modify distressing symptoms of pain and nausea in hospitalized cancer patients; provided results in reduced perception of pain, nausea, and relaxation when measured with visual analog scale. The Foot Massages were 10 minutes, 5 minutes each foot on 87 patients. A more recent TRI study in 2009 of a randomized controlled trial of women with breast cancer receiving Massage Therapy, provided results in a decrease of deterioration of Natural Kill (NK) cell activity occurring during the radiation and therapy. It also lowered heart rate systolic blood pressure.

Does Oncology Massage cure cancer? Of course it doesn’t. However, when applied by a trained Massage Therapist, it has helped many patients and family members improve their quality of altered life from a cancer diagnosis. Remember caregivers also go through increased anxiety and stress levels and can also benefit from Massage Therapy. What type of training should your Massage Therapist have? At least 24 hours of Oncology Massage Training with a supervised session of applying the Oncology Massage techniques to a Cancer Patient. I took my Oncology Massage Class in summer of 2012, and it was very enlightening as a Massage Therapist to understand the major types of cancer and their treatments. We learned the lighter types of Massage Therapy used during the different stages of cancer, its treatments, and for lymph nodes removed. These are all important techniques and questions to ask your Massage Therapist.

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Wellness Through Therapeutic Massage Since 2004

I am a 4th round cancer survivor, and I can truly say that hands on massage had a healing effect on my body and psyche. Joan has certainly given me a great deal of body comfort that does relieve my tight muscles. Having a massage would definitely help many patients. - Jean Recently, I had abdominal surgery to remove a tumor. The surgery was stressful and held in my neck muscles. When Joan massages these muscles, my sleep is improved. After surgery, your body needs to release the chemicals (anesthesia). I do feel massage helps improve circulation which in turn helps remove the toxins. - Christine, BSN In 2012, I was diagnosed with breast cancer which began the journey of chemo-treatments, a mastectomy and radiation. Your body, the treatments, and the cancer are at war with each other. You are stressed in a new way. The oncology massage by Joan, which is tailored to your specific situation, eased the stress and left me at peace and relaxed. It should be done as often as possible. - Lynn I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008 and began getting massages from Joan soon after. After my surgery, I had extensive rounds of chemotherapy and radiation. The bodywork Joan did on me helped me to relax, reduced the tension in my back and shoulders and helped me sleep better. It made a real difference in my recovery. - Maryanne

fitness&lifestyle

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You won’t be punished for your anger, but you will be punished by your anger. being produced for long periods of time. This may lead to chronic pain and postural complications.

By Pete Lerza LMT, NCTMB, CHP, Manager Kaya Wellness & Yoga

his is one of many Buddhist quotes, which refers to how anger can ruin our lives. When we talk about anger, it’s implied that pessimism, grudges, and general negativity are being talked about as well. Allowing things to anger us pushes us to make poor decisions and say things that we don’t mean, which eventually result in unwanted consequences, thus creating a stressful life. When we are angry and stressed, our bodies produce various hormones which are designed to help us deal with stressful situations. These situations should only last moments. However, when you have devised a stressful life for yourself which is threaded with anger, grudges, and hatred, these hormones will begin to cause more harm than good. One such hormone is cortisol. Cortisol releases glucose into your bloodstream and increases blood pressure for increased physical activity such as running or fighting. Your brain is stimulated for more intense awareness and your immune system activity is reduced to save energy for physical activity. This is great for “fight or flight” situations, but prolonged production of cortisol can lead to serious consequences. Aside from the obvious high blood pressure and low immune function issues, cortisol also breaks down proteins and can cause muscular deterioration after

When we are stressed, we also tend to grind our teeth at night and hold postures which create tight muscles for us. These tight muscles cause discomfort and limit your circulation, painting a picture of how a stressful lifestyle is a slippery slope towards general and painful unhappiness. There are many methods one can use for letting go of your anger. Just because you are not shouting at someone does not mean you are not angry. Learning how to be aware of these emotional shifts is key. Most people claim that a healthy balance of meditation, yoga, and massage has helped them to overcome the habit of stressing themselves out and increasing their own anxiety. Life can be stressful enough. Take care of your body and your mentality to- at the very leastget out of your own way.

Pete was so sensitive to the cues and responses my body provided to the bodywork. Pete gave an excellent massage, working deeply into some very blocked places without creating pain or discomfort. I felt safely held in his skillful touch throughout the massage. In summary, I am very pleased, satisfied, and grateful for my experience at Kaya. I will definitely be returning the next time I am able to get away for a few days of rest and restoration. And yoga and bodywork at Kaya will be central to my plans.” ~Cathy Pete Lerza is the Spa Manager at Kaya Wellness & Yoga in Rehoboth Beach, DE. Pete is a Licensed Massage Therapist, Certified in Holistic Pathology. Pete also serves on the Program Advisory Committee at the Dawn Career Institute.

Testimonials: “I started coming to Pete a little over a month ago. My neck, back, and legs were nothing but knots caused from hours at a computer, driving, and yes lots of stress. After just a month of coming to Pete my Pilates instructor told me she could see a big difference in my range of motion. Love my massages, but really love the change I see from working with a true professional that knows what he is doing. ~ Thanks P. S., Rehoboth “I had a great experience. My massage was therapeutic and relaxing. Pete is an experienced therapist and very good at describing the muscles affected and treatment. I appreciate his clinical and thorough knowledge of anatomy and therapy techniques. The spa itself is soothing and comforting. The room was peaceful and had good music. Thank you.” ~Alan “Pete proved to be a very sensitive and proficient massage therapist. He asked for feedback as to pressure and touch, but little verbal feedback was actually needed because

He takes a holistic approach to helping you relieve yourself of the physical and emotional stresses of everyday life. Primarily practicing Swedish & Deep Tissue Massage, and having a strong understanding of the nature of “knots” & general wellness, Pete strives to help his clients enjoy a better quality of life. Pete uses the knowledge from his certification in Holistic Pathology to address complaints of pain with various techniques & perspectives. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit www.KayaWellnessCenter.com or www.PeteAtKaya.com or call (302) 227 – 3450. Kaya Wellness & Yoga 301 Rehoboth Avenue Rehoboth Beach, DE

Special: 90 minute hot stone massage for $120 (reg $145) now thru 12/15/2013 !

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Pete Lerza LMT, CHP, NCTMB

Massage Therapist, Spa Manager, Kaya Wellness & Yoga

Providing professional, therapeutic relaxation & healing through massage.

302-227-3450 www.KayaWellnessCenter.com 26

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fitness&lifestyle

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Picky People Picking Professionals

By Dean Roles

here are one of two categories when you meet a trainer, that they usually fall into; Physical or mental. Physical trainers tend to use exercise in their training to obtain (consistent) proper movement. Mental trainers use inconsistency in sensory perception to attempt to stimulate the horse, to develop leadership to modify things like the fight or flight response of the horse. The inconsistency can easily lead to fear, and consistency can easily lead to boredom and resentment of the method! These contradictions take wisdom to master in a balanced approach. Both methods of training are valid, but differ greatly in applications. When I started training dangerous horses and modifying their mental conditions and was able to achieve things inside of a horses’ mind most people could not, I loved it, but there is little appreciation in the human world for horse psychology. So I took some of my skills and started training in disciplines. I had achieved some success but found myself bored and discontent- so over the years, I moved back towards the mental aspect of horse training. I strive to be that A-Z trainer that applies a perfect balance of mental and physical. My personal preferences tend to lean towards foundation training with

a mental twist, not roofing, I don’t even like heights! I can and do put a great foundation on a horse for any discipline, but if you want to go to the Olympics, you need a trainer to finish what I started. Showing to me, can be boring and superficial, but most of my clients show and finish their horses and they are great people! However, they understand to achieve their goals they can’t send a 3 year old to college nor can they expect a middle school history teacher to teach quantum physics. So remember when choosing someone to work with, to choose someone that is well qualified to work at the level you wish to work and within the field you wish to work. Don’t choose a trainer to finish a horse when your horse needs to be started. This is like building the roof before the walls. It’s just silly and ends in a mess. The opposite end of the spectrum is the foundation trainer that does not understand the end goal, and what is required to give a sound finished product. Remember when humans have a hammer; every problem tends to be a nail. So it is vital to pick the proper tool for the job. The simplest piece of advice I can give you is a young horse should always enjoy their job and their rider and so SHOULD YOU.

Testimonial Onyx came into my life in January 2009. In the past 3 years she has battled strangles and founder. In the spring of 2012 I decided this mare needed to have a job and I was desperate to find someone who would work with her without sacrificing my horse’s soul. And so it begins… On June 9 I brought Dean a horse with soundness issues due to her foundering previously. I brought him a horse that had no desire to please a human, but who would rather intimidate people with her size and power. Dean saw that Onyx’s issues ran deep and they weren’t all psychological…her physical well being needed to be addressed as well. He took such care to get my horse physically comfortable in the first three weeks by trimming her feet, giving her massages. Anything he could think that would help, he did. He could have physically pushed my horse, took my money for a month’s worth of training and sent us on our way, but he didn’t! This man cares about the horses and he cares about the people who own these horses that come through his gates. He has a plethora of knowledge and he loves to share it. He spent hours talking to me and sharing the lessons he has learned in his career…and he does it with passion! He is teaching me how to speak horse and to translate the information my horse gives me and to have a relationship with Onyx. It’s been a beautiful experience to have Dean train me and teach my horse and I’m excited to say my journey isn’t over. I’m continuing lessons with Dean and he is also continuing to trim Onyx’s feet to keep her sound. ~ Donna Austin, Clayton, DE

Centaur Training, LLC A full-service boarding/training facility.

22000 Heritage Farm Rd. Bridgeville, DE 19933

302 245 5423 centaurllc@yahoo.com www.centaurtrainingllc.com www.TheWomensJournal.com

SBA Awards DE 2013 Best Family Owned Business

New Castle Relocation Firm Named Delaware 2013 SBA Family-Owned Business of the Year WILMINGTON, DEL —The Small Business Administration’s Delaware District Office announces fourth-generation family-owned Hopkins & Sons, Inc. as the winner of the 2013 “Delaware Family-Owned Business of the Year.” 4 Generations Strong Residential and Commercial Relocation Service Local, Long Distance and International Relocation The Original Movers from Elsmere Owned and Operated by the Delaware 2004 Woman Entrepreneur of the Year, Cathy Hopkins Grieco FREE ESTIMATES Proud Supporters of Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition Any furniture donations in New Castle County, to be donated to “Great Stuff”, will be picked up and delivered free of charge.

A World of Difference Awaits You, call us at 302-322-1017 or visit us on the web http://www.hopkinsandsons.com nd us on facebook http://www.facebook.com/hopkinsandsons

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Mandatory, On-Going Training All of our technicians are required to participate in 150 hours of training per year, regardless of their experience. Iron-Clad, Up-Front Pricing Never get “sticker shock” after the job. We’ll tell you exactly how much the repair will cost before we ever start.

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In our 5th Annual Peggy Crothers House Cleaning Award Pride Klean is awarding two people a full YEAR of FREE HOUSE CLEANING SERVICES . We know how hard it is to manage a home, a career, and a family. But to then add a diagnosis of cancer or any other serious illness, it is even harder. With this being our 5th year, we thought we would open this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s award to anyone that is in need. We want to help two people who need this service the most. Our goal is to relieve the burden and the stress they have had to endure during their time of need. If you or someone you know could benefit, go to our website for more information and to enter: www.prideklean.com. Or Call 30 2-994-8500 Contest begins October 1st and ends November 1st Our Benefiting Agencies for this Award

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Window Treatments & Energy Savings Style and Comfort Combined

Is your sunroom too hot to use in the summer? Does your Presented By: Margie Booth, President Article By: Erin Gernon

heating and cooling system struggle to keep your house at a comfortable temperature? We have solutions for you!

t Home Designs, a fine window fashion and interiors studio located in Hockessin, showcases dozens of displays in their Hunter Douglas Gallery Showroom. A known leader in energy efficient window furnishings, Hunter Douglas has been contributing to energy savings since 1985 with their invention of the Duette® honeycomb shades. “It’s not just about having a beautiful treatment, it’s really necessary now to make your room more comfortable”, said Margie Booth, founder and president of At Home Designs. “When you have the proper window treatments, it can change the whole atmosphere in your home. Blocking out strong summer sun can make your living space more comfortable and usable year round.” Investing in energy efficient windows is especially important in today’s climate, where controlling the flow of hot and cold air in and out of windows can dramatically reduce heating and cooling costs. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, up to 50% of a home’s heat can be lost during the winter months, and roughly 40% of a home’s unwanted heat enters through its windows in the summer. “Many people don’t realize how much heat escapes from their windows in the winter and how much warm air enters during the summer”, said Shelly Booth, the Marketing Manager of At Home Designs and Margie’s daughter. “It’s the best of both worlds; you get energy efficiency and beautiful blinds”, Margie said.

honeycomb layers”, Margie explained. The unique construction of triple layers of a honeycombwithin-a-honeycomb creates five pockets of fabric that trap air. This extra layer of insulation makes the Trielle 20% more energy efficient than previous models and can reduce total energy loss by up to 50%. With so many alternatives and combinations, the process of buying the right window furnishings can appear overwhelming. “That’s where we come in. There are products that can fit into any décor, whether traditional or modern”, said Margie, who has over twenty-six years of experience in the home fashions industry. “We work closely with our clients’ needs and their aesthetic to ensure that they have beautiful, lasting window

If you are looking to redecorate or want to make your home more energy efficient, please come see us! At Home Designs is located in Hockessin, one block north of the Wawa on Rt 41 next to the Perfect Cup Cafe.

www.athomedesigns.com 302.239.1520

Testimonials Thank you for your help in choosing just the right shades and blinds for our new home. Your quick installation throughout our whole house was amazing! We are very happy with the result and we highly recommend you and your products. ~ John and Erin; Wilmington ,DE Margie, We just want to say thanks for helping us pick out the blinds for our house, they look great. We can’t say enough about your service and our satisfaction. We will be sure to keep you in mind for our future needs and will gladly pass your name on to our friends. Thanks again, ~ Jean and Sam; Garnet Valley, PA

In April, Hunter Douglas released their most energy efficient window covering to date, the Duette® Architella® Trielle. “The new Trielle model now contains three www.TheWomensJournal.com

treatments. In our Gallery Showroom you can see and operate the different products and lift systems that Hunter Douglas offers. It really makes a big difference.” At Home Designs recently completed an expansion of their main showroom. “We really needed more space to show people how wonderful these products truly are”, Shelly said. “We want customers to be able to see, touch, and operate our products so they can really get a sense of what we have to offer.” In addition to blinds and shades, At Home Designs also specializes in custom draperies, top treatments, bedding, and re-upholstery. “One of my favorite things to do is refurbish an old piece of furniture. I love to take traditional frames and put a fun or wild fabric on it. We offer one of a kind pieces that I have redesigned to fit into today’s current look”, Margie added.

Strength in Profile Carol Levin Levin Carol

Carol Levin was 41 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She was aware of a lump in her left breast one year prior to her diagnosis. She felt she followed every necessary step the year prior. She saw her doctor who said her whole family was fibrocystic and the doctor said to not worry about the lump, and she had a mammogram which she passed even though she told the technician that she had a lump. The missing piece of information is the year was 1997 and things were different then. The medical community is much more vigilant about breast cancer now than back then and their diagnostic tools are much more accurate. A year later during her annual gynecological appointment, Carol didn’t have one lump - there were three- and she was diagnosed with breast cancer. The one saving grace was that the cancer had not spread to the lymph nodes, and after surgery and chemo, she made a full recovery.

Eleven years passed and she felt she was cured. While on vacation she met a fellow survivor. Carol asked this survivor if she had done genetic testing. The survivor said yes she had and that Carol should be tested also. On arriving home, Carol scheduled an appointment for genetic testing, and the test results came back and reflected that she had the BRCA1 mutation. This diagnosis precipitated her visiting her oncologist 2 months earlier than when she was scheduled for her annual checkup. The doctor diagnosed her with breast cancer in the right breast. Not just any breast cancer, it was the more aggressive triple negative breast cancer which is common for people who have the BRCA1 mutation. Thankfully, her chance meeting with the person on vacation saved her life because the cancer again did not spread to the lymph nodes, which in most cases it does. She was required to do surgery and chemo again. They removed the breast and her ovaries due to the higher risk of ovarian cancer because of the BRAC1 mutation. Carol was unaware of any breast cancer history in her family prior to her BRCA1 diagnosis. Carol’s parents had died, and it was necessary for her mom’s identical twin to be genetically tested. Her aunt did not have the BRCA1 mutation, but her father’s mother had died at age 39 of a female cancer, and this is likely the genetic link. Carol hopes that others will consider genetic testing, and, if necessary, have prophylactic surgery, taking a proactive approach about saving their own life. She gives back by being a mentor to newly diagnosed survivors, and volunteers at Great Stuff.

Mary Mary Roper Roper

Throughout my life I have been healthy. Even with a demanding career I made time for exercising, eating well and taking care of my body. So, with no apprehension I went for my annual mammogram on Friday, April 20, 2012.

After an agonizing two hours of multiple x-rays and ultrasound images, the radiologist took me into a private room and said, “You have micro-calcifications in both breasts. One breast has normal calcifications, the other does not. I recommend an MRI.” I was shocked. I felt weak and scared. I asked, “Are you sure, I haven’t felt any lumps?” So, there I was heading home to a world unknown to me … a world that might include breast cancer. I called my husband who was startled by the results. I called my PCP and left a message. Ten minutes later, the phone rang and the on-call physician immediately asked, “How are you feeling?”. I replied, “Scared.” She gave me information about micro-calcifications and the name of a breast surgeon. We both knew I would have a long worrisome weekend. Thus, I began my journey into the world of breast cancer to determine if I, too, had breast cancer. Over the next 2 ½ months I underwent an MRI, biopsy and lumpectomy. I was diagnosed with “atypical lobular hyperplasia”, which is not cancer: “A diagnosis of atypical lobular hyperplasia means that your lifetime risk for developing breast cancer is 4 to 5 times the average risk.” After each procedure, I prayed Dr. Penman would say, “All clear.” It wasn’t until the walnut size mass was removed that my husband and I heard, “All clear, mass is benign.” We hugged and cried with relief. I did not have breast cancer. I had a precancerous condition. I would have to meet with an oncologist. I was humbled, anxious and afraid sitting in the Oncology waiting room with women who were undergoing cancer treatment. Based on research, discussion with the Oncologist, lumpectomy results, family history, healthy life style, etc., I chose not to take the preventative drug. I once again felt relief and said a prayer of thanks when on May 14, 2013 Dr. Penman reviewed my mammogram and MRI and said, “All clear.” Today and every day I am grateful I am cancer free, I am grateful for my loving husband, I am grateful for my dear friends, I am grateful for Christiana Care’s medical staff, and I am grateful my faith held me up during my darkest moments. 32

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Faith in Profile Nanci Nanci Mayer-Mihalski Mayer-Mihalski

Nanci Mayer-Mihalski’s journey with breast cancer -and her career in research - began when she was an 8th grade student. Her aunt was diagnosed with breast cancer and died. Nanci understood that cancer was a terrible disease and she wanted to discover a cure for it. And, “That’s why I went into research.” Nanci’s early career choice led her to research positions at Memorial Sloan-Kettering and the National Cancer Institute. While at NCI, she was on the research team developing monoclonal antibodies. Over thirty years later, Nanci is seeing the results of that research -- the next generation of cancer treatment drugs! Nanci’s journey became even more personal- and her career choice even more important -- in 1996 when her mother was diagnosed and treated for pre-cancer cells in her breast. Then, just six months later, her younger sister was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 37. Nanci shared her sister’s journey through surgery and treatment, using her research knowledge and network to convince her sister to take part in a clinical trial for “Taxol”, now the standard drug for breast cancer treatment.

In 2000, Nanci herself was diagnosed with breast cancer and she was determined to take charge of her breast cancer. She was not willing to accept “wait and see” advice and, taking charge of her treatment, insisted upon a lumpectomy, assuring that she had clear margins. Radiation treatment followed the lumpectomy. In 2001, Nanci became involved with the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition. Nanci was instrumental in developing and formalizing DBCC’s Peer Mentoring Program which provides one-on-one mentoring for those newly diagnosed with breast cancer. In 2010, she helped DBCC expand the Peer Mentor training to include a primer on clinical trials. In June, Nanci was re-elected to serve on the Board of Trustees and, most recently, became a volunteer at DBCC’s Great Stuff Resale Shop. Nanci Mayer-Mihalski’s journey with breast cancer has come full circle. From an 8th grade student who made a commitment to finding a cancer cure, to her family’s and her personal fights with breast cancer, to her continuing commitment to DBCC and those diagnosed with cancer.

Angela Angela Goode Goode

I was diagnosed with breast cancer in April 2001 at 42 years of age. I had a lumpectomy of the left breast followed by 8 weeks of radiation, then 5 years of Tamoxifen. Initially I was shocked but after one week of keeping things secret from the children and seeking God in prayer, I was able to move forward. In May 2011, I was diagnosed again with breast cancer in the right breast. I had two biopsies as I had suspicious areas close to the nipple and deep in the breast. A mastectomy was recommended. I chose to get a 2nd opinion and did so at Fox Chase Cancer Center. They recommended the same course of treatment. I also did the genetic testing as I have 2 daughters and my mother is also a breast cancer survivor. I decided to have breast reconstruction so I received a temporary implant during the mastectomy surgery. Permanent implant and nipple reconstruction surgery was done in October with the final touch - nipple tattoo - in January. I had a scare in October 2012 with a heavier than normal period after 11 months of no periods. I “trusted God” and it turned out to be nothing. I had the blood test for menopause but it came back negative :-( I’m currently on a 6-month checkup rotation with my surgeon and 4 month rotation with my oncologist. I didn’t have to do radiation or chemo (Thanks be to God). I’m on Tamoxifen again for 3-5 years. I’ve visited a nutritionist so I could healthily gain weight. As a result, I try to drink more water, eat more fruits, vegetables and healthy fats. I also pray and read my Bible daily; “Be still and rest in the LORD; wait for Him and patiently lean yourself upon Him.” Psalm 37:7

Thanks to Our Photographer.... Roy McDowell

Royal Photography’s owner, Roy McDowell, brings a wealth of experience, both creative and business, along with an unmatched ability to put people at ease, to every occasion he photographs. Over the past 18 years, Roy McDowell has captured “that” moment for more than 300 brides and grooms and preserved high school memories too numerous to count. Such exposure has led Roy to become one of the most recognizable photographers in Delaware. The pride, precision, and passion he exudes has compelled brides-to-be to track down, “the photographer who took their senior portrait years before”. Roy exhibits this same commitment and customer service when working with the many schools and businesses with whom he’s managed contracts “The consumer drives the product I provide; not the other way around”. With the help and support of family, friends, and business associates, Roy McDowell strives to achieve his goal of providing an unforgettable experience with superior photographs, exceptional customer focus, and lasting relationships.

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Beauty in Profile Dr. Dr. Regina Regina Allen-Sharpe Allen-Sharpe

Dr. Regina Allen-Sharpe is the Senior Director of Career Services & Student Life and an Assistant Professor at Wilmington University. On November 23, 2011 just 3 days after Regina’s 44th birthday, she received a diagnosis of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) in her right breast. She was informed that her right breast could not be preserved and it had to be removed. In addition, Regina was told that she could have her left breast reduced and lifted to match her right breast. After tears, prayer, and discussions with her husband Oscar, they decided that a bilateral mastectomy with reconstructive surgery was best for them. On December 11, 2011 Regina underwent surgery and never looked back. Regina believed she was equipped with the armor she needed for the fight; that is, an understanding of self, a loving family, supportive colleagues, and a spiritual foundation that is unmovable.

As an educator, she knew she needed to gain an understanding of the disease, treatment plans, life after cancer, support services, etc. So, she attended several programs offered at the Helen Graham Center and through the DE Breast Cancer Coalition (DBCC). She strongly believes that the support and training she received through these organizations allowed her to be present, feel whole, and honor this life altering experience. So, during her sabbatical, she volunteered to become a peer mentor through DBCC to provide encouragement and support to women going through their breast cancer journey. In addition, Regina is often requested to speak to women’s groups and to serve on focus groups for survivors. For Regina, she believes educating herself about breast cancer took the fear out of the way and allowed her to get the treatment she needed to heal and move forward. Regina often says: “the fact is I had cancer but the truth is it never had me”.

Linda Linda Powell Powell

Linda Powell is an analytical chemist by training and Director of Special Projects, working on acquisitions, joint ventures and technology licensing, with the DuPont Company. She is President of the DBCC Board, and a six-year breast cancer survivor. Even though breast cancer had occurred in Linda’s family before—her grandmother, aunt and cousin were breast cancer survivors—Linda was totally shocked by a diagnosis of breast cancer in 2007. “I was diligent, doing everything right.” A different breast health issue led to a visit to the doctor who ordered a second mammogram and diagnosed her breast cancer. Surgery (a lumpectomy and node dissection), four months of chemotherapy and then radiation followed her diagnosis. Linda was able to continue working throughout her treatment. “For me, it was very important for my sanity to keep working during my treatment. I wanted to continue with my life and not let cancer become my life. I appreciated that DuPont gave me the flexibility and understanding to do this. And, through my work, I had the support of friends around the world.”

Linda credits the support of her husband, family and friends for getting her through treatment, and she is grateful to have mentors who were there during her entire breast cancer journey. To help ensure other women in Delaware have access to screening, treatment, and support along the way, Linda joined the DBCC Board in 2008 and became President in 2011.

Thanks to Our Stylist... J. Christian

Hair styling & make-up application were provided compliments of J. Christian Studio, where hair and art perform. J. Christian is a Master Artist with more than 30 years experience in the beauty industry. Together with his wife Marcy, they own and operate J. Christian Studio, an upscale salon located in Hockessin, DE. As an International Platform Artist and Master Educator for Sexy Hair Concepts, J. Christian travels here and abroad teaching other Stylists about hair fashion. He regularly teaches at the Institute of Courage, a hair academy established by Michael O’Rourke, founder of Sexy Hair Concepts located in the Topanga Canyon just outside Los Angeles as well as at the Paul Mitchell School in Delaware.

Thanks to Our Makeup Artist... Leisa Kanienberg

Leisa Kanienberg is a Professional Makeup Artist with more than 15 years of experience. She is also a licensed Managing Esthetician, Nail Therapist and Instructor and graduated from the Aveda Fredric’s Institute in Cincinnati, Ohio. In 2006, Leisa established iMakeup Artistry so that she could offer her makeup services independently. Her expertise includes beauty, bridal, film, television, editorial photography and fashion runway - having worked backstage at fashion shows such as Vanity Fair’s Fash Bash. Her work has been featured on NBC and a recent episode of “Cake Boss,” as well as published in several magazines including Fusion Flowers, and the cover of Missy Ink. Leisa’s favorite aspect of Makeup Artistry is beauty and bridal makeup, working with her clients in creating a new look to accentuate their personal features.

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photography

educate. enrich. empower.

Making The Irreplaceable, By: Roy McDowell Owner, Royal Photography

Unforgettable

aluing what you hold most dear: The beauty, the love, and the unspoken feelings that turn each moment into a memory. Your wedding is a day you’ll never want to forget. When choosing a Wedding Photographer, make sure they will narrate the story of your wedding day through photojournalism, creative lighting techniques, and posing that captures the emotions, hopes, and dreams of you and those you’ve chosen to share your special day. Royal Photography offers a wide variety of wedding packages to meet all of your needs. With leather bound albums, parents’ albums, and individual pictures, Royal Photography allows you and everyone in your life to cherish your wedding memories forever. Over the past 18 years, Royal Photography’s owner, Roy McDowell, has captured “that” moment for more than 300 brides and grooms and preserved

high school memories too numerous to count. Such exposure has led Roy to become one of the most recognizable photographers in Delaware. He creates a lasting impression, not only of an event, but of himself. The pride, precision, and passion he exudes has compelled brides-to-be to track down, “the photographer who took their senior portrait years before.” Roy exhibits this same commitment and customer service when working with the many schools and businesses with which he’s managed contracts. “The consumer drives the product I provide; not the other way around.” With the help and support of family, friends, and business associates, Roy McDowell strives to achieve his goal of providing an unforgettable experience with superior photographs, exceptional focus, and lasting relationships. Contributing Author Erin Seims

Royal Photography Phone: 302.478.1809 E-mail: royalphotogde@aol.com 3646 Silverside Road • Wilmington, DE 19810 www.TheWomensJournal.com

mentalhealth

educate. enrich. empower.

Kids’ Couch, Inc.

Healing The Child Within Us All Olga Yatzus, LPCMH, CSP, RPT

hen Kids’ Couch, Inc. first came into being in 2003, the focus was on helping and healing children. Olga Yatzus, LPCMH, CSP, RPT wanted to utilize her training as a psychotherapist along with her 27 years of experience as a school psychologist to improve the lives of school age children. It became apparent, however, that in order to be effective in helping children, we had to be able to help grownups, too. Within school settings, she had the opportunity to work with the children themselves, but found that she was cut off from their greatest resource – their parents! It is well understood that children can improve only when they are getting the support they need from their parents and/or primary caregivers. For example,

a boy who was a stellar student in second grade becomes a third grader who has trouble staying on task long enough to complete a classroom assignment. He often starts “clowning around” in class to the point that his behavior becomes a distraction to other children in the classroom. His teacher might send him to the school counselor with the expectation that she can somehow teach him to sit still and finish his work. What he tells the psychologist indicates that he can’t do the work because he doesn’t understand the lesson; further investigation shows that he also has not been completing his homework sheets. This child has fallen seriously behind in his learning. Perhaps he has a previously undiagnosed Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder; perhaps there has been some severe stressor at home such as the death of a loved one which is making him too sad to focus well. These issues would certainly require the parents to be closely involved in finding a way to

support him and get him back on track. Perhaps, however, the problem could be resolved if his parents were just to review his homework sheets with him before and after he does them. This could help in several ways: 1. it gives him the chance to ask for help twice; 2. it shows him that his parents are available to help him; and 3. it gives his parents a daily opportunity to praise him for his efforts. How many of us could have and would have done better in school had we only been given a little more attention from our parents! We see variations of this scenario on a daily basis, where the answer can be as simple as parents or caregivers making themselves more readily available. We also see kids whose lives are very complicated by conditions such as ADHD or learning disabilities, or who have experienced serious life events themselves or within their families. Regardless of the situation, we find that kids need their parents to be involved in finding solutions.

Seems like a “no-brainer,” huh? Here comes the heart of the matter: we have also found that parents and/or caregivers can provide support for their kids only when their own needs are being met. And that can seem like an impossible task. How many parents knew how hectic life was going to get, how hard it was going to be to juggle the contradictory needs of their kids, their jobs, and themselves? Finding an extra ten or fifteen minutes to help a third grader with his homework can be a monumental task in and of itself. At Kids’ Couch, Inc. we have made it our first priority to support the needs of the entire family. We understand that parents and caregivers are people who often have very complicated lives. When a child has mental health or behavioral problems, parents and caregivers suffer in a variety of ways, and we work to address that suffering. We know that our relationships with parents and caregivers will make all the difference in a child’s well-being.

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education

educate. enrich. empower.

Balancing Homework With Busy Family Life Article By: Maggie Lage

ife with school-age children can be quite busy, as any parent knows. When your family has sports practice, dance class and many other commitments – including homework – it can be difficult to fit it all in. How can parents help their students manage school and everything else successfully?

Establish and keep to a schedule. Develop an after-school schedule that prioritizes homework and study time. Schedule all other activities (such as social time and extracurricular activities) around homework and study time. As your student gets older - and most likely, busier - time management will become especially valuable. Help your student learn to use his or her time effectively by adhering to a daily schedule and to-do list. Studies show that routines are good for children of all ages because they promote good time management skills and reduce stress (among many other benefits). So, whatever you decide on for homework and study time, make that a part of your daily routine. Encourage the use of a calendar/ planner. As students become more involved in things outside of school, one of the greatest homework challenges is having sufficient time to get it done. The earlier your student learns to manage his or her time effectively, the better. Keep a master family calendar on which all commitments, activities and daily to-dos are recorded. Make sure your student keeps an up-to-date planner for his or her own tasks and activities, too. Learn effective study habits. Teach your student to approach study sessions with a plan, which will help minimize wasted time. Consider each week’s to-dos and tailor an organized study schedule to fit each subject. As a simple example, if a spelling test is Friday, on Monday have your student read through the word list and sort words by prefix or suffix (or whatever the learning concept is that week). On Tuesday, play a word game to help your student master the words. On Wednesday, quiz your child with an oral spelling test and another game,

and on Thursday, do a practice test. Remember to set achievable tasks for every study session. Remember that short, frequent studying is better. If you’re concerned that your student’s busy schedule does not allow for twohour study blocks, don’t be. Experts say that studying often for shorter periods of time is more effective than lengthy sessions. If your student has evening obligations, try for 20-minute homework sessions after school, after dinner and before bedtime. Look for windows of opportunity. Extracurricular activities tend to demand more time as students grow older. So, while it is important for students to schedule homework time from an early age, keep in mind that short moments of free time are opportunities for homework, too. If your student is an early riser, morning may be a good time for extra studying. If a younger sibling has to tag along to an older sibling’s sports practice, find a quiet place where he or she can do a little homework. Juggling your student’s school and activities – not to mention your own job and life – can be challenging, but incorporating these strategies can help make it easier. It’s never too early to teach your child to make the most of his or her time. Homework and study time should be a priority, but with good time management and study habits, you and your student will find that there is plenty of time for fun, friends and family, too.

Dr. Raymond J. Huntington is co-founder of Huntington Learning Center, which has helped children achieve success in school for over 35 years. For more information about how Huntington can help your child, call 1-800-CAN-LEARN. Maggie Lage is the Executive Director of the Huntington Learning Center in Newark, 34 Liberty Plaza, Kirkwood Hwy. Newark, DE 19711.

For more information or to schedule a consultation at the Newark location call 302-737-1150 or visit www.Newark.HuntingtonHelps.com.

About Huntington: Founded in 1977, Huntington is a pioneer and leader in the tutoring industry. For over 35 years, Huntington has provided quality instruction to hundreds of thousands of students. Huntington prides itself on being “Your Tutoring Solution” for students in all grades and subjects. They tutor in academic skills, such as reading, phonics, math and study skills. Also, advanced math and science subjects ranging from algebra through calculus and general science through physics are offered. They also prepare students for state and standardized entrance exams, such as high school entrance exams, the SAT and ACT.

Hear what parents are saying about Huntington • Our son was struggling with school at the end of 2nd grade and now with Huntington’s help and great teachers, at the end of 3rd grade he is at grade level and looking forward to 4th grade. Huntington really helped our son. ~ The Singers www.TheWomensJournal.com

education

educate. enrich. empower.

Brain Balance Centers Change The Lives Of Children With Learning Disabilities Without Drugs! T

he Brain Balance measures and improves a child’s brain and body function in numerous dimensions. To gain a full understanding of the child, they first conduct a comprehensive assessment of all areas of their brain and body function. Then, by integrating physical and cognitive exercises along with dietary modifications, they are able to correct the underlying imbalance, improve function and reduce/eliminate negative behaviors. Brain Balance Centers, a non-medical program, changes the lives of children with learning disabilities without the use of drugs. Brain Balance Achievement Centers were founded by Dr. Robert Melillo and William Fowler. This is a brain-based, not drug-based program, subscribing to the theory that the brain can be changed. The Centers test, analyze and design a program specific to a child’s needs and then implement the program without the use of drugs. The program concentrates on cognitive, social, sensory, and motor skills and nutritional health. Debbie’s son, Joshua, graduated this past May. Joshua was 4, but was acting like a 2 to 3 year old. He was not socializing or engaging, and he barely spoke. At age 3, he was diagnosed as part of the Autism Spectrum: After Brain Balance, he was re-evaluated by a doctor with no affiliation to the Center and the diagnosis was changed to not being on the spectrum at all. Debbie says, “After the Brain Balance experience, his brain is more centered, and he is able to grasp certain tasks better. He is acting like a normal 4 year old. He was stuck at 2 and didn’t really play with toys or read his books much and now he is. He knows what is going on and tells me what he wants and needs. Before Brain Balance, we didn’t know if things were even registering with him half the time.” Debbie went on to say, “He now has the world open to him and he is soaking it all in. Brain Balance gave me a great gift: They gave me my child back.” Joe and Megan’s son, Jimmy, started Brain Balance after struggling in school. He would often bring home test grades of 0/10 or 1/10. He struggled with both math and reading and would say things like: “I hate myself.” or “I’m too stupid to learn how to read.” Joe said, “Within about six weeks of attending the program, we saw a marked improvement and his teachers also remarked that he seemed to be maturing and was more focused. His grades began to improve significantly. And as the weeks progressed, we were happy to bring to the center

a 100% that Jimmy had earned on a spelling test. We are confident that his time spent there will keep him moving in the right direction for years to come. We would highly recommend the program to other families whose children might be experiencing similar issues.” In a recent feasibility study, among children diagnosed with ADHD, over 80% no longer met diagnostic criteria; this result was achieved after only 12 weeks of the Brain Balance Program. The average child with an Autism Spectrum Disorder improved 2-4 years in areas of developmental delay while enrolled in the program.

To learn more about Brain Balance Centers or to schedule a comprehensive assessment, please visit their website: www.brainbalancecenters.com.

Pike Creek Shopping Center

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education

educate. enrich. empower.

Create a Career or Educational Plan That’s Right for You By: Nora Riehl Zelluk

ave you been thinking about returning to school, changing careers, or re-entering the job market after time away? Whatever your situation, your first step should be to discover what kind of educational program will best help you attain your goals. Here are some tips to help you get started.

1. Assess your career goals and situation. Look at your own work history, interests, and abilities, and identify what you enjoy doing. Which past achievements have given you most personal satisfaction? Think about your own definition of success. For example, how important is it for you to feel like you’re contributing to society, engaging in a challenging profession, or making a specific amount of money? Are you seeking to update your current skills or aiming for a total career change?

2. Explore some career ideas, and gather information about them. Talk to people who are in a field that you’re interested in. Ask what they enjoy most about their jobs, and what their work is like. How did they get to the position they’re in – with what sort of

education, skills, experience? What are the advancement opportunities and job availability in their field? Other sources of career information include the Internet, books, professional associations, and career information databases.

3. Gain some experience in the field of your choice. You could take a course or workshop in the field: talk to the instructor and interact with the other students. You might be able to “job-shadow” someone. Get involved in volunteer work, or find a part-time job in the field. Take advantage of these settings by talking to your co-workers, bosses, and clients or customers.

this is the time to shop for the school or college that can provide you with the appropriate education. The University of Delaware’s Division of Professional and Continuing Studies can assist with all stages of the career exploration process through its ACCESS Center.

For information, or to make a free appointment with an academic advisor, call 302-831-2741 or write to access-advise@udel.edu.

4. Implement your career and educational choices. If you will need courses or a college degree before you can enter your career of choice,

Here She Goes Again, 5x Survivor Has A Ball Join us for an elegant evening that features dinner, entertainment, DJ, dancing, and more. Proceeds benefit The Helen F. Graham Cancer Center at Christiana Care. $75 Per Person Cash Bar RSVP by October 18, 2013 info@mdpcf.org • www.mdpcf.org

My name is Jackki Kennedy and I am the founder and president of the MDP Cancer Fund, which hosts “The Kennedy Black & White Ball”. As a 5x breast cancer survivor, and one who has lost 2 family members to this dreaded disease, I have a strong desire for a cure to be found and to help others who are dealing with cancer. Several years ago I decided to move forward with a vision to raise funds for cancer research and programs. It was at that time that the KBWB was launched. The Ball is an annual black tie fundraiser event given each year at the beginning of November. The proceeds from the event are donated to the Helen F. Graham Cancer Center at Christiana Care, Cancer Special Needs Fund. The Center is one of the leading institutions in the nation in research and cancer care. I was treated there and received excellent care through the caring programs and services offered.

The MDP Cancer Fund proudly presents:

The Kennedy Black & White Ball Friday, November 8, 2013 Harry’s Savoy Ballroom 2020 Naamans Road • Wilmington, Delaware 19810 7:00pm – 11:00pm www.TheWomensJournal.com

education

educate. enrich. empower.

Does Your Child Need More?

Back to Basics K-12 Private School offers a revolutionary difference … An unprecedented 1:1 student to teacher ratio

By Beverly Stewart, M.Ed.

he benefits of a low student to teacher ratio are well-documented. Among educators, the most influential study of the benefits of a decreased student to teacher ratio is the Student/Teacher Achievement Ratio (STAR). The study measured consequences for students who were randomly assigned to a small class (average of 15 students) versus a regular class (average of 22 students). The results were unimpeachable. The reduction in class size by 32% increased student achievement by an amount equivalent to three additional months of schooling – an impressive gain which was still measurable in a follow-up study four years later. For some students in Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, there is an even better solution – a 1-on-1 classroom! Your child can have that 1-on-1 teacher interaction every single day at Delaware’s only Department of Education-approved 1-on-1 Private School. The experienced and degreed instructors at Back to Basics K-12 Private School work as a team to customize and tailor an integrated curriculum to meet the unique needs and abilities of your child. The teaching staff is dedicated to the growth and development of your child academically, socially, mentally and emotionally. And the result is improved academic skills, increased self-esteem, interest in school, and unparalleled subject mastery. Back to Basics K-12 Private School offers the four core curriculum areas of English/ language arts, math, social studies and science, as well as electives for all grades. These include foreign languages (12 offered), business courses, sociology, study skills, art, music, drama, computer literacy, and over 50 other subjects. Back to Basics K-12 Private School is designed with your child in mind:

My child continually struggles in school. Can a 1-on-1 school help him focus and achieve his potential?

In a 1-on-1 setting, students have the constant attention of the teacher, so that they can listen and speak with much more comfort than in a group situation. Each child’s strengths and non-strengths are addressed more fully

-- without the distraction of other students or the teacher’s compensation for a variety of skill levels in one classroom. Plus, each student can go at his or her own pace and benefit from each teacher adapting to his or her individual learning style.

K-12 Private School with the President/Director Beverly Stewart, M.Ed. is the first step. During this meeting you’ll explore your expectations, share information about your child’s current school situation and history, and discuss specific needs.

My child is pursuing a future career while still in school. How can a 1-on-1 school help simplify our hectic life?

This is also the time to evaluate exactly why your child’s current school setting is not a good fit, and what specific educational goals are most appropriate for your child. You’ll also learn more about Back to Basics K-12 Private School and its unique 1-on-1 approach to learning, motivating, and building self-esteem.

If your student is actively pursuing a career in acting, modeling, dance, or sports, congratulations! These hard-working students have a host of additional difficulties when enrolled at a traditional school, the least of which is simply scheduling. A 1-on-1 setting can allow your child to more easily fulfill school requirements while juggling auditions, work, games, practice or travel. School hours can be adjusted to outside obligations, so that no assignments or class time are missed. And, because Back to Basics K-12 Private School is a Delaware Department of Education-approved school, seniors graduate with a high school diploma.

My child is coping with a medical issue. How would a 1-on-1 school benefit her?

Whether your student has a chronic condition, emotional challenges, or has a short-term medical issue, a 1-on-1 school may be the answer. Back to Basics K-12 Private School offers a uniquely caring and supportive academic environment with scheduling flexibility to ensure your child’s success.

My child is socially immature. Would a 1-on-1 school be a good fit?

Every student deserves an environment conducive to his/her individual learning style. The Back to Basics team of experienced instructors joins forces to create the unique environment where your child can learn -and feel good about school. The results are transformative! After one to three years, most Back to Basics K-12 Private School students confidently return to a traditional school setting or graduate.

In order to be considered for admission, Back to Basics requires the following information: •

Report Cards and Interim Reports for the previous and current school years

•

Psycho-educational testing reports if your child has been tested

•

IEPs for previous and current school years (if applicable)

•

Transcripts for all of high school up to the current year

•

Current grades from your child’s school, since the last report card was issued

•

DCAS, Terranova, ERB, or other standardized testing results from the past two years

For more information, please call us or visit www.BacktoBasicsPrivateSchool.com

Who Benefits from a 1:1 Private School? The student who continually struggles in school. The student who is simultaneously pursuing a future in sports or the arts. The student who is coping with loss or a medical issue. The student who is socially immature. The student who needs more individual attention. The student who is insufficiently challenged at his current school. All of the above?

My child has been identified as gifted and is simply not challenged at his current school. Would a 1-on-1 environment help?

Your child may benefit from an innovative 1-on-1 approach to learning. Since students can move at their own pace and teachers are not focused on a range of skill levels found in a traditional classroom, the sky’s the limit! In addition to the core curriculum, your child may want to explore a broader range of electives or honors courses not offered at the school he or she is currently attending – from Mandarin Chinese, to Anatomy, to Art History. If you are interested in applying for admission, a preliminary meeting at the Back to Basics 40

Delaware Department of Education approved

Over 60 subjects and 95 professional, degreed instructors 6 Stone Hill Road, Wilmington, DE 19803

BacktoBasicsPrivateSchool.com

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community

educate. enrich. empower.

GreatStuff HOME

A Furniture Resale Shop Like No Other! A

s we approach our third year anniversary, we continue to be amazed and grateful for the success of the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition’s upscale savvy resale shop, GreatStuff! When the shop opened in October 2010, we had no clue whether or not the shop would be embraced by our local community or whether it would be able to sustain the volume of donations of upscale clothing, accessories and home accents needed to succeed. Would we be able to attract enough volunteers to help staff the shop? These were just a few of the By: Dale Maahs, questions nagging at the back of our hopeful minds! General Manager Well, I am happy to report YES! Our community has embraced us in a myriad of ways and we are extremely grateful for the support from the many friends we have made along the way, for without each and every one of you, we would not have the success that we’ve experienced. Because of you, our customers, donors and volunteers – we have been able to contribute over $130,000 to the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition! Great stuff, right? Thanks to all of you our shop continues to thrive and evolve.

Visit us online at www.greatstuffresale.com or www.facebook.com/GreatStuffResale!

long the way, we received many inquiries from donors who wished to support our cause by donating pieces of furniture to GreatStuff. We were more than happy to accept those donations into the limited space we have at the shop, but now the questions were, “Where are we going to put the furniture and how are we going to pick up the items or deliver them?”. Hmmm…….Well again, a wonderful partnership was formed with a local moving company, Hopkins Moving and Storage, which generously picks up and delivers our donated furniture free of charge! Incredible! Now this led us to the other issue…where are we going to put all of this great furniture? Hmmm…….why not open a GreatStuff furniture annex and call it GreatStuff HOME? A great idea was born! I am very happy to announce the addition of GreatStuff HOME, an upscale home furnishings resale shop which will open just a few doors down from our current shop at Talleyville Center. We are pleased to announce that Barbara Eckels has been hired to manage the shop. “I am very excited to be part of the DBCC family and am looking forward to continuing the success of GreatStuff Savvy Resale with our new venture, GreatStuff HOME”, says Barbara. The additional location will provide beautiful home furnishings and accents that our savvy customers have come to expect. We are planning an early October opening…so stay tuned!

Upcoming Events September thru October – Tanger Style of PINK promotion (tangeroutlets.com) October 5 – 3rd Annual Dewey Goes Pink 5K at the Starboard October 19 – Northern Lights of Life at Otto’s BMW, West Chester, PA October 19 – Monster Miles for a Cause October 24 – GreatStuff Savvy Resale Anniversary Celebration October 24 – GreatStuff HOME Grand Opening www.TheWomensJournal.com

Donations for GreatStuff Savvy Resale and GreatStuff HOME are now being accepted. Call Dale at 302-478-7890 for more information.

community

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It is common knowledge that women are making the buying and planning decisions these days. So... advertise to reach your specific and receptive audience. Express your expertise in The Women's Journal, allowing your target audience to get to know you and look to you. Our readers like to be informed and excited about new knowledge and new opportunities.

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business&finance

educate. enrich. empower.

Turning Maternity Leave Into A Career

By: Jodi McGee

For most, maternity leave is a time when a professional woman’s career takes the backseat to her family. But for some women, maternity leaves are becoming exciting opportunities to re-energize their professional lives.

How is this possible? When it’s your career but someone else’s maternity leave. Maternity Leave It To Me is a woman-owned company focused on matching freelancing professionals to cover the maternity leaves of new moms with positions which require special skills or a certain degree of expertise.

our best to keep the work running smoothly and let the new mom stay as little or as much connected as she’d like. As a mom of young children myself, I often found myself have conversations with other moms about work and kids while we chased after our toddlers and preschoolers at the playground. Everyone – stay-at-home moms and working moms alike – was mostly happy with the decisions they had made about family and career but each had their own set of doubts and fears. Some wished that they had more time to spend with their kids, and others worried about transitioning back to the workforce once their kids were grown. Which got me thinking… wouldn’t it be fantastic to build a business based on the

idea of moms helping other moms and solve all of these issues?

A New (and Growing) Solution Maternity Leave It To Me is focused on providing specialized interim staffing support to cover a valued employee’s maternity leave. Moms-to-be and their organizations seek out this service in order to ensure that work does not get dropped or delayed, temporarily fill a role that requires expertise, transition the work to/from a dedicated resource, and turn a capacity challenge into an opportunity to gain new perspective and ideas. Today, the business focuses on providing support to Marketing and Communication professionals but there are plans to expand the service to other industries. The longterm vision is to build teams of industry experts available to support a variety of industries such as Architecture & Design, Technology or Human Resources.

Becoming Part of the Maternity Leave It To Me Team

The Mother of Invention The idea of Maternity Leave It To Me came from both parts of my life as a working mom. As a marketing and communication professional, my firm was often asked to step in and take on additional responsibilities when a member of our client’s team was going out on maternity leave. I found that I enjoyed getting up to speed on my client’s active projects while at the same time hearing all about baby plans. During her time at home, my coworkers and I did

If flexible employment within your area of expertise is an appealing concept to you, you might be a good match for the Maternity Leave It To Me team. Work is assigned on a contract basis, matching the needs of the assignment with the skills of one of our professionals. Typically, employers are looking to cover the maternity leaves of their mid-tosenior level employees so the most active members of our team are those with the appropriate level of experience.

If you’d like receive details about upcoming information sessions or learn more about the company, please visit www. MaternityLeaveItToMe.com.

About Maternity Leave It To Me Jodi McGee founded Maternity Leave It To Me because she knows firsthand that having a baby changes everything, including your professional life. After navigating three maternity leaves of her own and watching friends, colleagues & clients wrestle with the same anxieties and decisions, it became clear to her that this was one of today’s workplace realities and there was an opportunity for a new answer. Maternity Leave It To Me was born! For more information please visit www.maternityleaveittome.com. 44

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business&finance

educate. enrich. empower.

Who Do You Trust? Presented By: Frederick J. Dawson, ChFC, CLU

y continuing chronicle of interviewing women has produced some extraordinary points of view, opinions, feelings, and ideas about the financial well being of women. Delaware Commission for Women Hall of Fame Inductee Beverly Stewart, President of Back to Basics says “more than ever before, women are not only the bread winners, but are the decision makers; consumers and buyers. They command more respect and are very capable people.” She goes on to say “they do need help with the planning piece and looking at the long term.” Lani Nelson-Zlupko, PhD of LNZ Consulting who is a therapist, coach and consultant says “A husband is NOT a plan! Women need exit cash and walking shoes to maintain their independence.” At age 65, women can expect to live, on average, an additional 20 years.* The U.S. Census Bureau indicates that women own almost 30% of nonfarm businesses. Moreover, according to recent statistics, 42% of older women are widowed, 11% are divorced, and approximately half of all women age 75 and older live alone.** Additional points mentioned by these ladies, were that many times women don’t have the time, inclination, or interest to take care of the important financial details. So what’s a gal to do? I would submit to the ladies of

the jury that consideration should be given to hiring a qualified wealth manager. This person should act as your Personal Chief Financial Officer. He or she should focus on saving you taxes, preserving your wealth, helping you pass your wealth along to your heirs, protecting your assets from being taken away unjustly, and helping you make meaningful gifts to charities that you support. Only a small percentage of so called “financial planners” actually do all those things. Most only do one of those things well. Finding that all important person “of trust” should begin by asking about his or her qualifications. A Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) or Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) is a good place to start. Each of those designations requires much study, passing tough exams and above all holds that person to a high degree of ethics. Even so, it does not guarantee you that you’ve got “the best” but it’s a great start. Do you feel comfortable with that person? Do they listen well? Do they answer your questions with respect and in a language that you can understand? Don’t be shy about asking how they are compensated as they should have no problem explaining those important details too.

Bassett, Dawson & Foy, Inc. and a founding principal partner of the firm. Successful women are prominent among Fred’s diverse domestic and international client base of professionals, retirees, professional musicians and business owners. In 2008 Fred was cited by Delaware Today Magazine as one of Delaware’s Top Financial Advisors. Criteria are not necessarily based on client satisfaction or advisor performance. Fred received a State of Delaware Senate Tribute in 1999 for his “long and distinguished record of service to his community, his country, his state and his region.”

For more information or to schedule a complimentary, no obligation initial consultation

Stay tuned for my next installment! * Source: National Vital Statistics Report, Volume 59, Number 4, March 2011 ** U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration on Aging, A Profile of Older Americans: 2010

Fred Dawson, ChFC (Chartered Financial Consultant), CLU (Chartered Life Underwriter) has over 30 years of comprehensive wealth management experience. He is Executive Vice President of

Frederick J. Dawson, ChFC, CLU Wealth Manager, Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Executive Vice President, Bassett, Dawson & Foy, Inc.

Bassett, Dawson & Foy, Inc. E.A. Delle Donne Corporate Center 1011 Centre Road, Suite 110 Wilmington, DE 19805 302-999-9330 www.bdfwealth.com • fdawson@bdfwealth Www.TheWomensJournal.com www.TheWomensJournal.com

contact Fred’s office at 302-999-9330 or fdawson@bdfwealth.com.

* Bassett, Dawson & Foy, Inc. is an Independent Registered Investment Advisory Firm with the State of DE. * Securities Offered Through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC * Any opinions are those of Fred Dawson and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James.

Fred is frequently sought after as a public speaker on financial matters. If your group or organization would like to hear Fred speak merely contact his office at 302-999-9330.

lifecoaching

educate. enrich. empower.

Stuck In Fear? find the resources we must prepare before we take action. It is like a country that is preparing for war. They begin to stockpile weapons. Stockpile your resources now.

4. Take massive action

By Joe White President and Founder of Get Life Coaching. 2012 Entrepreneur of The Year

hat keeps anyone from changing? It is fear... fear of failure, fear of success, fear of rejection, fear of not being enough, fear of not being loved, fear of loss, fear of getting revealed as a fraud, fear of change, fear of all the above. Fear cripples us, limits us and robs us of the ability to respond. In the end it keeps us from the life that we really want. Even after we know the effects of fear and we experience the effects of fear we do little or nothing to change. Our response usually comes in the form of an “I tried.” We say, “I tried to change,” or “I am really trying to get better,” but the truth is that “trying” will never get you anything other than a reason why things didn’t work out. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to break through the barrier of your fear.

5 Keys of Breaking Through the Barrier of Fear 1. See it as it is, not worse

This is the step where people stop. It is also called approach avoidance. I conduct a seminar called Breaking Through The Barrier. It is a seminar in which we get people to move past their fears. That is the day where they take everything they learn and apply it to break a pine board with their bare hand. As we get closer to the time we break boards, you can see the fear begin to rise. Even though they now have the resources, they become scared to take the action. You can imagine how powerful it is when they push past the fear and take action and they see the board is broken! Don’t stop at the doorway, go through the door of opportunity.

5. Don’t give up

Even when we take action, it doesn’t mean we will automatically get the results. We could be doing the wrong action, not enough action, not doing the action long enough yet. We cannot always measure success by the results we get. We must keep focused on what is important and keep moving forward. If our approach doesn’t work, we must try something else. If that doesn’t work, we try something else. One quality that is so common in successful people is that they don’t give up. The acronym for FEAR is False Evidence Appearing Real. We give fear life or more life in our mind. The more we avoid it, the greater it is until it becomes a 10,000 pound gorilla. We must step up and walk through the fear. Not later, not tomorrow but now.

5 Keys of Breaking Through The Barrier of Fear Visit us on the web: www.getlifecoaching.com www.facebook.com/getlifecoaching www.twitter.com/getlifecoaching

Like most married woman with children , I found myself coursing through life on autopilot. My first priority was taking care of my family, which lead me to take a back seat to my own life. I “thought” I was unhappy and that crushed my spirit. How could I be so unhappy when I have so much to be grateful for? What I learned through attending the Fire Walk and Breaking through the Barrier is that you don’t “lose” happiness, or need to search for it. It is there with you everyday. You just need the right tools to help you wipe away fear, old habits and denial . Once you accomplish that goal , you’ll find happiness standing right in front of you, arms extended; ready to embrace you once again . Thank you GLC. Thank you for teaching me how to get back in the driver’s seat….I am thoroughly enjoying the ride! With lots of love and gratitude, Cindy Berkowitz

Too often we make our fears bigger than they really are. It always reminds me of the wizard in the Wizard of Oz. The big scary Wizard was really a small little scared man. We can’t dismiss the fear, because fear is ultimately here to serve us, but we want to hear its message and then move forward. Most of the times we can handle the fear of normal proportion. It’s when it becomes larger than life that we become overwhelmed by its presence.

2. See it better than it is

Our brains work on two guiding principles, one is the desire to avoid pain and the other is the desire to gain pleasure. When we are in pain or uncomfortable we naturally will seek a way to get out of pain. If we can create a clear vision or image of what we really want, our brain will begin to find ways to make it a reality.

3. Recognize your resources

We all have resources. Sometimes it is a friend or coworker, other times it is within us from a time in the past we overcame fear, or it is a place where we can go to get more information and help. Regardless where we

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law

educate. enrich. empower.

Custody – It’s What’s Best for the Kids, Pt. 1 Custody disputes between parents are fraught with emotion and tension. Each family member has to adjust to a very different life and the loss of significant control. In most cases, the children now have two separate homes and those homes are run separately, and sometimes very differently, from each other.

his article is the first in a two-part series on custody in Delaware. This issue explains what By: Shana A. Pinter, Esq. custody is and how it is decided. The next issue will cover the basic process, when to file for custody and when to settle instead of going to court. So, the first question: “What is custody?” In Delaware, the term “custody” involves two major parts: legal custody and residential arrangement. Legal custody is the legal decision-making authority over the child. In most cases, legal custody is awarded to both parents equally – referred to as “joint custody.” Both parents have the authority and must agree about the major decisions in their child’s life, such as education, religion, medical treatment, and so on. This is the default in Delaware – meaning that the Court will start from the point that joint custody is in the best interest of the child(ren) (discussed in detail below) and needs to be convinced why it is not. In comparison, sole custody awards decision-making authority to one parent and that parent alone can make all the decisions pertaining to the child including if and when the other parent has visitation. Sole custody is very difficult to get and usually isn’t awarded unless there are issues such as substance abuse problems, instability in housing, or a criminal record, to name a few. The second part of custody in Delaware is residential arrangement – which parent the child will be with and when. The default here in Delaware for children age 5 and older is “shared residence” which means that each parent has the child(ren) for 7 overnights out of a 14-day period. This is usually accomplished by the children switching households on a weekly basis. However, any arrangement can be used as long as each parent gets those 7 overnights. In comparison, one parent’s home can be named as primary residence. As with sole custody, the Court has to be strongly convinced that it’s in the best interest of the child(ren) that they live primarily with one parent and only have visitation with the other. Some examples are when a parent lives out of state or if a parent doesn’t have appropriate space for the child(ren) in their home, among others. Children under the age of 5 usually have one parent’s home designated as primary www.TheWomensJournal.com

residence and spend up to two overnights during the week and every other weekend with the other parent. Now that you have a general understanding of legal custody in Delaware, the next question to tackle is: “How is custody decided?” The Court decides custody and residency based upon what it determines is in the “best interest” of the child(ren). In other words, it’s not what you want and it’s not what your kids want – it’s what is best for your kids . . . and that is decided using the following factors: • The wishes of the parents and the wishes of the child(ren); • The extent of the child(ren)’s relationship with each parent’s extended family and any individuals that live with the parents; • The child’s adjustment to school, community and home;

• The mental and physical health of everyone involved; • How each parent has lived up to the responsibilities of being a parent in the past – such as financial support, emotional support, being involved with their child(ren); • Any history of domestic violence; and • The criminal history of all involved in the case. In the next issue, we’ll discuss the process of filing for custody, when to file and when to settle. Shana A. Pinter, Esq., is the founding attorney of Pinter Law, LLC, a law firm dedicated primarily to family law. She has been practicing since 2009 and founded Pinter Law, LLC, to increase access to legal assistance to those facing challenges within their families.

law

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You Could Be On Candid Camera! Delaware Workers’ Compensation Benefits

By: Heather A. Long, Esq.

o you remember the person who was caught on camera trying to walk and text at the same time in a shopping mall? Do you remember what happened to her? She walked right into a fountain because she wasn’t looking at where she was going. How embarrassing! The goal of this article is to save you from being embarrassed like that poor girl was. Or, at the very least, to give you fair warning that cameras are everywhere – so watch your step! For those who are involved in a workers’ compensation claim, you are at a higher risk than the average person for having your most embarrassing moments caught on videotape or in pictures. This is just one way that insurance companies will try to attack your claim. A common insurance company “trick of the trade” is to have you followed by an investigator. The investigator will watch you go on about your daily activities, and if they see you doing anything that is more strenuous than what your doctors recommended that you may do (called “restrictions”), then they will videotape you doing those activities. The video will then be used against you to show that either you’re not as injured as you claim to be or that you are not following your doctor’s orders. Another situation where videotape is used in workers’ compensation claims occurs when you either give testimony to the Industrial Accident Board, or discuss specific restricted

Heather has been an attorney for over six years, and is currently practicing Workers’ Compensation and Personal Injury Law at Kimmel, Carter, Roman & Peltz, P.A. with offices in Newark and Wilmington. Heather worked her way through law school as a paralegal in a personal injury firm. After passing the bar exam, she spent several years working as a defense attorney, representing local, regional and national companies. With the knowledge gained about the inner-workings of these companies, she now represents injured workers and personal injury plaintiffs. Heather is a graduate of Widener University School of Law, and the University of

activities with your doctor. It is imperative (and should go without saying) that if you have participated in a specific activity, that you do not give false statements to anyone involved in your claim indicating that you cannot do that activity as a result of your work injury. I guarantee that the insurance company will find out about it, and will make you eat your words. In addition to hiring an investigator to videotape or photograph you, the internet has given the insurance industry a cheap and easy way to dig up dirt on you to try and tarnish your claim. Online social networking has become an integral part of our lifestyle. It helps us update our family and friends on the happenings of our day to day lives, but it also gives insurance companies insight into our comings and goings. Anything that you post online is fair game for the rest of the world to see. You should also be aware that your friends and family members can post something harmful to you online, and then attach it to you via a link. Therefore, it is imperative that you be extremely careful when using any social internet services. I always tell my clients that if it’s not something that they’d be comfortable with the whole world seeing, then keep it off the internet.

Nebraska- Lincoln. Prior to attending law school, she was licensed as a paramedic and spent time volunteering for her local ambulance corps. She is also active as a mock trial coach for Salesianum High School.

Heather is licensed to practice law in Delaware, Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

For more information, or to schedule a free consultation, please call (302) 565-6132 or e-mail her directly at HLong@kcrlaw.com.

If you do have questions about whether an internet posting could be harmful to your case, please contact our office for a consultation to discuss this. A consultation with a lawyer who specializes in this area will be able to give you insight as to whether the workers’ compensation insurance company has any pictures or videotapes of you, or whether an internet posting could damage your claim. All of the lawyers in my firm, including myself, offer consultations for work injuries. The consultations are free, and the insight into your claim could be invaluable to your future health and benefits. 48

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New Law

law

Adequate Automobile Insurance Coverage? T

than the amount of the negligent driver’s insurance policy limits. Delaware courts have ruled that if the innocent victim and the negligent driver have the same policy limit or victim’s policy limits are less than the negligent driver’s, then the negligent driver is not considered “underinsured” even if the negligent driver’s policy limit is inadequate to compensate the innocent victims. This amendment will rectify these inequities.…”

of the Delaware Code Relating to Insurance”, which will benefit Delaware residents who elect underinsured motorist coverage when purchasing or renewing their automobile insurance after January 3, 2014.

he Morris James Personal Injury Group has years of experience representing victims injured in automobile accidents. Sadly, all too frequently, we have to explain to clients that the at-fault driver only had the minimum automobile liability insurance coverage required under Delaware Law which is $15,000.00. Obviously that amount is grossly inadequate for clients with catastrophic injuries, hospital bills, lost wages, etc. The way to protect you and your family members who may be injured in an automobile accident is to be certain you purchase sufficient Underinsured Motorist Automobile Insurance Coverage. The claim for Underinsured Motorist Automobile Insurance Coverage is triggered when the atfault driver’s insurance carrier tenders the liability limits to the injured client. Are you Aware of Important new changes to Delaware’s Underinsured Insurance Benefits Statute? The Personal Injury Group Attorneys of Morris James LLP would like to dedicate this article to educating Delaware residents of the newest amendment to Delaware’s Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist Coverage Insurance Statute. On July 3, 2013 Governor Markell signed into law an amendment titled, “[a]n Act to amend Title 18

Delaware’s current Uninsured / Underinsured Statute, Del. Code Ann. Title 18 § 3902 (West), enacted on October 31, 2008 Under Delaware’s current uninsured/underinsured statute, an injured individual can only access their underinsured motorist coverage if the injured party’s damages and policy limits exceed the at-fault driver’s insurance policy limits. In other words, under the current law, if you elected underinsured motorist coverage in the amount of $25,000.00 and the at-fault driver has a policy of $25,000.00 you would be unable to access the underinsured coverage you paid for. Unfortunately, most individuals are not aware of the current exception and only learn of it after being involved in an automobile accident.

Why is this law important to you? The reason why this amendment is so important is because once it takes effect, underinsured motorist benefits can be accessed by an injured person based on the damages they sustain regardless of the at-fault driver’s insurance policy limits. When will this amendment become effective? “The provisions of the law will not affect existing insurance policies, and will apply only to renewing or new policies that become effective six (6) months after the law is enacted.” S.B. 61, 147th Gen. Assem., Vol. 79 Ch. 91 (2013). THE LANGUAGE OF THE BILL ADVISES THAT THE NEW AMENDMENT ONLY APPLIES TO POLICIES OF INSURANCE THAT ARE ISSUED OR RENEWED AFTER JANUARY 2, 2014. Therefore, a policy of insurance that is renewed before

What is the purpose of this new law? The, “purpose of this amendment is to allow innocent victims of motor vehicle collisions to access their own underinsured insurance benefits in circumstances where the victim’s damages are greater

January 2, 2014, for a six month or year term, will not include the new underinsured amendment. What can you do to protect yourself and the ones you love? The Personal Injury Group Attorneys of Morris James LLP suggests that you protect yourself, as well as your loved ones, and renew your auto insurance policy with the underinsured election after January 3, 2014 so you can be assured your policy will apply the new underinsured amendment protection. The Personal Injury Group Attorneys of Morris James LLP The Personal Injury Group Attorneys of Morris James LLP combined have 153 years of experience in personal injury litigation and stay current on all of Delaware’s legislation affecting individuals involved in automobile accidents. If you or a loved one suffers the unfortunate event of an automobile accident, the Personal Injury Group Attorneys at Morris James LLP will guide you through the process of obtaining the maximum compensation for your injuries that you are entitled to under the law.

“Feel Confident in Choosing One of the Most Experienced Law firms in Delaware Since 1931”

Auto Accidents and Injuries No Fees Unless We Win!

Michael Owen Clayton Bunting

Kevin Healy

By Susan D’Alonzo Ament

Free Consultation Susan D’Alonzo Ament

Day, Evening & Weekend Appointments Home & Hospital Visits

depersonalInjury.com

Pete Jones

Keith Donovan

www.depersonalinjury.com Five Convenient Locations in Delaware to Serve You: WILMINGTON 803 N. Broom Street Wilmington, DE 19806 302.655.2599

NEWARK

Susan D’Alonzo Ament, Esq. Kevin Healy, Esq. sament@morrisjames.com khealy@morrisjames.com 16 Polly Drummond Hill Rd. Pete Jones, Esq. Newark, DE 19711 pjones@morrisjames.com 302.368.4200 Michael G. Owen, Esq. mowen@morrisjames.com

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DOVER Keith Donovan, Esq. kdonovan@morrisjames.com 29 N. State Street, Suite 100 Dover, DE 19901 302.678.8815

GEORGETOWN

REHOBOTH

402 Rehoboth Avenue Clayton Bunting, Esq. cbunting@morrisjames.com Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 107 W. Market Street Georgetown, DE 19947 302.856.0015

Se habla Español 302.651.3589 49

Susan D’Alonzo Ament is a partner with Morris James LLP and has practiced for 30 years representing personal injury victims. Over the years, Mrs. Ament has found that some women don’t understand the crucial need to have adequate automobile insurance coverage in the event of a serious accident. Susan Ament educates women on these needs every day in her practice and in seminars that she presents throughout the year.

fashion&beauty

educate. enrich. empower.

Understanding The Changing Cost Of Flowers! order lilies, tulips and hyacinths to adorn the sanctuary; thus flowers continue to play an important part in the Easter celebration.

By Barbara P.G. Williams Co-owner of Belak Flowers

ften, customers have difficulty understanding the fluctuation in flower costs, especially during major floral holidays. The reason for any inflation in flower costs varies from holiday to holiday season. Immediately after the Christmas season, rose growers worldwide, from Holland to the United States to Chile to Canada, cut back their rose bushes to force their growth and schedule the bloom time to coincide with the Valentine’s Day shipping schedule. This results in considerable lost income for all rose growers for the month of January. To recoup these loses they increase the wholesale price of roses for the Valentine holiday. Necessity and opportunity dictate this cycle which means that retail florists, as well as the consumer, are affected by the increase. In December, flower shipments compete with passengers’ luggage for space in airplane cargo holds. Because all travelers’ luggage is given priority, boxes of cut flowers are often “bumped” to make room. Although the growers are paying customers too, holiday travelers’ baggage and gifts are more important. Consequently, the flowers that are imported into the United States pay dearly for the space. Although Easter is not as significant a flower holiday as it was 30 years ago, it is still a major travel holiday. In years past, every woman wore a corsage to church and most families had Easter dinner at home with a spring centerpiece on their table. It is customary for many churches to

Belak Flowers Where Your Vision Comes Into Bloom

Mother’s Day is a unique holiday. Because everyone has a mother, mother-in-law, wife, grandmother or person to whom they give flowers, it is a major holiday in the floral industry. It is almost exclusively about supply and demand. As with Valentine’s Day, the bloom time of each flower variety needs to be carefully scheduled so that it can be harvested in anticipation of that one week! A significant factor in the cost of Mother’s Day flowers is labor. It is one week during which more overtime hours are worked than for any other holiday. For the sixteen years that John and I have owned Belak Flowers, it is not unusual for us and our designers to work until 2 to 3 a.m. on the Friday night prior to Mother’s Day Saturday.

since 1954 302-762-5000 888-762-8877

www.belak-flowers.com 832 Philadelphia Pike Wilmington, DE 19809 Barb’s Email: Bgwbelaks@comcast.net established wedding specialist free personal consultation with Barb all budgets possible evening appointments available

The month of May is a popular month for proms and continues to be a choice month for weddings. These occasions and celebrations add to the increased need for specialty flowers during a month when activity in the floral industry is at its height. Supply and demand dictates the cost of each stem! Worldwide disasters sometimes affect the availability of certain flower varieties. An unexpected disruption in the air travel industry eventually filters down to the floral industry. The aftermath of a volcano erupting in Iceland several years ago delayed flights from Europe, and especially Holland, for more weeks than anyone could have predicted. A royal wedding or a dignitary’s funeral ceremony can seriously limit the availability of flowers, particularly white roses. An unseasonable cold snap in South America can freeze acres and miles of flowers overnight, and several rainy seasons in California have made even less expensive flowers more difficult to obtain. Flower shops are a unique retail combination of perishable inventory paired with competent, talented floral designers. It takes both to create beautiful floral designs ~ the delicate dance of both components being in perfect rhythm is often taken for granted. 50

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fashion&beauty

educate. enrich. empower.

What Are YOU Wearing?

Have you ever watched TV shows such as “What Not to Wear” and “How Do I Look” or heard celebrities talking about how they owe their fabulous fashions to personal stylists and shoppers? Have you wondered what it would be like to get that kind of professional help for yourself? Or do you know someone who might benefit from getting a new look?

s you read this article, stop for a minute and look at what you are wearing. Does your outfit make you feel fantastic? Does it flatter you? Does it make an incredibly positive impact on those around you? If there are other people nearby now while you are reading, sneak a peek at them. What’s the first word that comes into your mind when you look at each one of them…and think about that one word they might use to label you. Each of us is a walking label – a visual personal brand that’s created by our own personal styles. But you already know that, right? That’s why you get your hair cut by a stylist, your teeth taken care of by a dentist, your body shaped up by a trainer or your skin maintained by an esthetician. But one of the biggest parts of your brand – your clothes and accessories – you probably take care of on your own. Be honest with yourself though, do you really know what looks best on you? Do you think your friends or family really know? And do you realize that many sales associates – while very hard-working and well-intentioned -- don’t often have the time or skills to share ideas truly well-tailored to you? No matter what your age or budget is or whether you need just one amazing outfit for a special occasion or a complete closet cleanout and wardrobe makeover, a personal stylist and shopper can change your look… and perhaps change parts of your life also.

By: Elizabeth Douglass

Testimonials: “Elizabeth helped me from underwear to jewelry showing me how those basic things plus clothing can make me look and feel so much better about myself. I used to hate how I looked and never felt stylish. Now I feel so much better about myself and get compliments all the time.” ~ Gayle “I have no idea how Elizabeth works her magic, I’m just grateful I took the plunge and set aside all my long-held pre-conceived ideas about fashion and style…because what she did really changed my life professionally and personally in incredibly unexpected and positive ways. What started out as career wear and then beachwear and then party wear eventually ended up with her helping me pick out everything for my rehearsal dinner and wedding. While she works incredibly fast to make the best use of your time and money (no matter how limited), she

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really does teach you as she goes so you can tear the right pages out of catalogs and magazines and easily make those looks work for you…rather than tearing out your hair wondering what to wear.” ~ Liz Shop With Elizabeth is a business based on the belief that your unique style and shopping needs are of the utmost importance not just to how you look, but how you feel and how others view you. Sole owner and operator, Elizabeth Douglass, is committed to meeting those needs however is best for you. She impartially tailors her work specifically to you and doesn’t impose “rules” or her own style

on you. Shopping with Elizabeth always starts with a free phone or in-person consultation, with absolutely no obligation after that to use her services. So whether you need an amazing event outfit, a closet and wardrobe makeover or just an hour or two of strategic style and shopping help, her goal is to help you comfortably and affordably bring out the best in you.

To learn more about Elizabeth’s work and to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation, contact Elizabeth at Elizabeth@shopwithelizabeth.vpweb.com or 302.897.5351.

Are You..... • Waking up every day wondering what to wear? • Worried your wardrobe is holding you back at work or from getting work? • Wasting time and money on things that date you instead of helping you date? • Wearing clothes from a different decade? • Wondering what it would be like to get a wardrobe makeover like you see in magazines and on TV? If you answered Yes to any of these questions, then take just a minute to read how Shop With Elizabeth has helped people with all these things and more. Or just email or call her to schedule a free, no obligation consultation.

elizabeth@shopwithelizabeth.vpweb.com

302.897.5351

educate. enrich. empower. fashion&beauty Beautiful and affordable A great investmentThe ultimate possession! Diamonds... pendant for you to touch and enjoy every day as they did. And the best part is you can pass that love on to the next generation. Diamonds truly are beautiful and durable tokens of love to cherish forever.

A great investment ?

By Ron Sayers – Graduate Gemologist (GIA)

e have all heard the line diamonds are a girls best friend but did you ever stop to think how true it is ? Diamonds will be guaranteed to compliment your appearance with virtually any outfit you wear. Whether blue jeans or an evening gown, diamonds compliment any fabric or color you can imagine. They are also compatible with any skin tone, makeup or hair style. Diamonds are also available in many natural colors such as yellow, brown, pink and black, as well as some colors created by man. The most dramatic and versatile however is still the colorless round brilliant and unlike the outfits you wear them with, they can be worn in any season and don’t go out of style.

Diamonds are well suited for any age group. We have sold tiny diamond pendants for Christining gifts as well as a single add-a-link diamond bracelet which can be added to yearly. By the time the child is in college they can have a completed diamond bracelet which can be worn a lifetime. You are never too young or too old to wear diamonds. Think about it, the very diamond your grandmother or mother so lovingly wore on their wedding day can be remounted in a modern ring or

Let’s say you buy a pair of diamond stud earrings for $ 800.00. If you wear them only four days a week for the first year, your cost is $ 4 per day. That is about the cost of a Cappuccino and you saved all those calories. The rest of your life you wear them for free and when you hand them down to the next generation they will probably be worth much more. You don’t have to pay property tax yearly and you don’t have to waste money upgrading to the newest version.

What about love and romance ? Diamonds are the ultimate token of love when used as an engagement ring. They speak any language eloquently and are available in many shapes and sizes. Our sales staff includes Graduate Gemologists who can guide you in the selection of the ultimate diamond for the love of your life set in a ring she will cherish. We will show you the color, clarity and cut combination that will give your diamond the maximum brilliance.

work of art that remains beautiful forever. A DIAMOND IS FOREVER choose it wisely and enjoy your best friend.

Testimonials:

Dear Tom, Ellen, Ron and Staff: Thank you so much for your prompt, professional, caring attention to my needs for the award that you so courteously provided

today. Sometimes when we deal with the best it is easy to forget to say thank you. We accept it as the norm. It is with you, but not all businesses. - Again many thanks. Best wishes and prayers, Dan Dear Sayers Jewelers Gang, A special thank you to Dawn for helping me pick out Orbis for Mom’s birthday last week and for the extra effort to ship them to me quickly. She loved all the Summer colors, especially the lime green opal. I am now the lucky recipient of the magenta one, thanks to her too! I always appreciate the service and selections at Sayers! Thanks again for another successful birthday celebration ! - Jennifer Dear Gretchen, Thank you so much for the great customer service received recently during my purchase of an Orbis ring. It is so refreshing to visit a business and receive great service. It was our anniversary week and thank you for making it so special. I love my ring! Enjoy the brownies!

We carry Lazare ideal cut diamonds and the very exclusive Forever 10 brand of ideal cut diamonds as well as diamonds from Antwerp Belgium, the diamond capital of the world. The key to diamonds is quality. If you spend money for an ugly diamond it will be ugly forever. A quality diamond is a cherished, 52

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What Is Your Makeup Style? : Fall Makeup Trends 2013 By: Leisa Kanienberg • Professional Makeup Artist & Owner, iMakeup Artistry

our makeup style may be to wear the latest look by following the trends, or it might be wearing a classic look that never goes out of style. Many women rely on the amount of time they have to get ready in the morning to dictate how they wear their makeup. The amount of makeup you wear may also be based on where you are going and the occasion, with colors and textures influenced by the time of year and the season’s trends. During fashion week the trends in makeup show on the runways, which are then interpreted in the seasonal collections from our favorite cosmetic lines. This fall season the look for skin is flawless with a natural or slightly dewy finish. For the eyes, warm, earthy neutrals in shades of peaches and orange can be seen, in addition to grays or browns with a plum undertone. For the lips, the shades range from soft, fleshy nudes to bold, bright pinks and reds in a matte finish. Depending on your style, use the fall trends to influence what your look for this season will be. To embrace the

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latest trends, purchase new makeup seasonally to keep your look current and modern. If you prefer a timeless look, pick one or maybe two of the new trends and use this as an opportunity to add something fresh to your routine. A new eye shadow or lip color is always the easiest way to update your look. Leisa Kanienberg is a Professional Makeup Artist with more than 15 years of experience. As a seasoned Makeup Artist, Leisa specializes in a wide range of makeup applications and techniques. Her expertise includes beauty, bridal, film, television, editorial photography, and fashion runway – having worked backstage at fashion shows such as Vanity Fair’s Fash Bash. Her work has been featured on NBC and a recent episode of “Cake Boss,” as well as published in several magazines including Fusion Flowers, and the cover of Missy Ink. Leisa has worked alongside top Makeup Artist Leslie Munsell and Hair Stylist Ted Gibson of the hit tv show “What Not To Wear,” whose celebrity clients include Angelina Jolie and Jessica Simpson. With her unique perspective as an artist, Leisa is able to use makeup as a tool to create what she calls, “one of the highest forms of art.”

Please call 513.207.0550 or visit iMakeupArtistry.com to book an appointment with Leisa for a photo shoot/ video, wedding or private consultation. Please “Like” iMakeup Artistry by Leisa Kanienberg on Facebook.

Now Booking For Fall 2013 And Spring 2014 Weddings!

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Lips – They’re Becoming a Trademark

By Carmella Gibellino-Schultz

hrough a smile, a pout, or perhaps a kiss, lips are the bearer of our emotions. Healthy lips can make you look young, sophisticated, sensual, or exotic. Likewise, thin, pale, colorless lips look lifeless…and well…old. As we move away from the suppleness of our youth, our desire to juice up those lifeless lips becomes part of the daily grind. In today’s image driven society fuller, plumper lips are more than desirable. They’re becoming a trademark, a fashion statement in its purest form.

O, how ripe in show Thy lips, those kissing cherries, tempting grow. -William Shakespeare

So we try to give our lips some life. Women across the world spend multiple hours and multiple dollars on lipsticks and liners, plumpers and glosses, trying to get that perfect shape and perfect color. We devote 10 to 30 minutes every morning, meticulously practicing the art of make up, a talent we may or may not be blessed with. If you’re lucky enough to achieve some symmetry, and you somehow avoid the smudging and smearing before you leave the house, you still have to reapply throughout the day to avoid looking washed out.

Testimonials

Even with all of the available plumping products on the market, many of us feel our lips are too small or too thin, or perhaps unsymmetrical. The hazard of an unsteady hand only complicates the daily grind. Wouldn’t it be nice to not have to think about it? To be able to eat, even kiss, and still retain that youthful glow? Permanent lip liner and full wash of lip color is the solution to rejuvenating your smile.

Permanent cosmetics are the solution for a natural restoration of youthful color, and a fool proof way to correct and enhance shape. Those perfectly defined, fuller lips you’ve always wanted are finally achievable. You will enjoy the results for years to come!! You can wake up with make up, and use that precious primp time for something else. No smears! No Smudge! No worries! For more information on all permanent cosmetic procedures, pictures of Carmella’s artistry and more, please visit our website at www. permanentu.com. Feel free to call, we will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have. If you are interested, we will gladly assist you setting an appointment for a COMPLIMENTARY consultation with Carmella, where shape defining and color quest are just the beginning. No commitments, just exciting possibilities.

Dr. Monica Mehring M.D. Dr. Jonathan Pontell M.D. Dr. Katheryn M. Warren M.D. Dr. David Zabel M.D. Dr. Jeffrey B. Minkovitz M.D. | Eye Physicians & Surgeons Dr. Peter Panzer M.D. | Panzer Dermatology Assoc. Dr. Paul Sabini M.D. F.A.C.S.

Dr. Jonathan Saunders M.D. Dr. M. Stefanyszyn, M.D. F.A.C.S. | Wills Eye Hospital Lynn Esdale RN | Lynn Victoria Cosmetic & Medical Skin Care Dr. Lisa W. Hostetler M.D. Sarah Lester, Medical Aesthetician Delmar Surgical & Cosmetic Treatment Center.

“Beauty isn’t about looking perfect. It’s about celebrating your individuality.” ~Bobbi Brown

610-883-0636

Choosing your artist is the most important decision one can make on this quest for beauty. We are here to help you make an informed decision. Carmella has performed thousands of pc procedures since 1999, making her reputation and experience unmatched in the area. Come and see her portfolio for yourself. Beautiful, youthful, lovely lips can be yours permanently. Wake up with make up! Carmella Gibellino-Schultz is a licensed cosmetologist and has been practicing the art of permanent cosmetics since 1999. In both Delaware and PA she has performed thousands of procedures and her impressive portfolio speaks for itself. Former owner of The Skin Care School and Center, her expertise and years of experience have made her the areas most sought after permanent cosmetics artist.

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Referring Doctors Dr. Abel M.D. | The Abel Center for Oculofacial Plastic Surgery Dr. Fanny J. Berg M.D. Dr. Peter R. Coggins M.D. Dr. Joseph J. Danyo M.D. Dr. Jillian Banbury M. D. Dr. Ian M. Longergan, D.O. | Aesthetic Plastic Surgery of DE Dr. Timothy Greco M.D.

Permanent cosmetics can change or enhance your lips in many ways, including, but not limited to: • enhancement of lip color, slight or dramatic variations available • placing lip liner outside of natural lip line to create a fuller look, or inside to create a smaller look • enhancing the shape of the bow (middle of top lip) or even creating a bow where one hasn’t existed • c orrecting uneven lips, balancing the top and bottom lip

About the Artist

“I have never felt more confident and you have brightened my life.” - L.M “Thank you for performing a miracle.” - L.E. “Permanent makeup enhanced my life, I always look good and go anywhere.” - B.M

www.permanentu.com

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New Hair And Smiling Faces students who play sports like field hockey or soccer. Do they beat up their wigs, sure, but they are living life. My women are rowers, they jet ski, work out go to water parks, they don’t allow their loss of hair to interfere with their lifestyle. I teach them little techniques to keep their new hair on.

The Wig Boutique specializes in medical and natural hair loss. We provide products and services for those with female & male pattern, Alopecia, Trichotillomania, those undergoing chemotherapy and anyone who has any form of hair thinning or hair loss.

Comments from our clients

“Miss Sandy I need new hair, we have a wedding, and everyone needs to look at the bride, not my bald head!” (9-year-old female)

By Sandy Tusi Mercante

air loss or thinning resulting from medical treatments or health issues is a side effect no one desires. Even though these consequences may be expected, they are always shocking for clients. The Wig Boutique is trained to show the highest degree of care and sensitivity to clients’ emotional and physical issues as we help them to look like themselves once again and get back to living their lives. For many reasons hair is an important feature for so many people regardless of age. The integrity of my clients is first and foremost! From the many questions, some tears and fears, looking into the mirror with their new hair on, eyes shining and confident smiling face is an A+ in my book. Sharing information, we teach and learn from each other. The Wig Boutique offers a confidential consultation that will help you to better understand your own hair loss. The Wig Boutique has the latest solutions and technologies in hair loss, whether due to heredity, alopecia, cancer, or any other illness. Sandy is able to help men, women, and children with a variety of options and solutions. During the complimentary consultation we can get to know each other, your likes and dislikes, and get you into a comfort zone with your new hair.

Surprises are fun! “Sandy I have always wanted to be a redhead!” From brunette, to blonde, to a sassy redhead! (My feisty 90-yearold female client ballroom dances in her blonde hairpiece.) These are some of the wishes clients have and I help grant them. They may come to see me alone or with family and friends, it is their choice and comfort zone.

Delaware now has its own alopecia areata support group. The efforts of my client and friend, Liz DeCarlo made this possible. They have meetings and special events throughout the year for more information you can go to www. naaf.org.

Alopecia Areata

Alopecia Areata is a highly unpredictable, autoimmune skin disease resulting in the loss of hair on the scalp and elsewhere on the body. Alopecia Areata occurs in males and females of all ages and races; however, onset most often begins in childhood and can be psychologically devastating. Although not life-threatening, alopecia Areata is most certainly life-altering, and its sudden onset, recurrent episodes, and unpredictable course have a profound psychological impact on the lives of those disrupted by this disease.

After so many years of doing hair, I feel very fortunate to have so many “special clients” in my life and they are mine until they no longer need me.

The following testimonial was sent to the Women’s Journal, and I felt it needed to be included on Sandy’s Page

Losing my hair to alopecia areata (an autoimmune condition that causes patchy hair loss) has been an emotional journey. Finding Sandy Mercante at Precision Hair and Wig has been a blessing!

“Miss Sandy, will my new hair stay on when I am playing on the monkey bars and I am upside down? “ My 7 year old alopecia universalis client asks me. My 34 year old alopecia areata client tells me: “Come on Sandy, when I take my wig off I am naked!” Again, my clients teach me all the time, I learn something new every day. Some of my clients with alopecia universalis have multiple wigs, human hair and synthetic fiber. My teenagers and young college

For my youngest clients who suddenly lose their hair (alopecia areata, chemotherapy or chemical related), their parents have gone to their schools, spoke with their teachers and school nurse who then have a meeting with their classmates to explain alopecia areata or chemotherapy. When children have an understanding of what their classmates are going thru, they are much kinder.

I first met Sandy 12 years ago when my condition had turned into the most severe form, alopecia universalis (total hair loss). I was desperate to find a salon that had an assortment of wigs to try on in a private setting, a beautician to style the wig, and someone who was knowledgeable about my condition and sensitive to my needs. I had visited a few wig shops in the area. One place showed me a book of wigs to order from but then I would have to find a salon to cut the wig and style it to fit my petite head. Another place had wigs to

try on but did not cut or style the hairpiece. It was very upsetting. Finally, I contacted Precision Hair and talked to Sandy. I immediately felt her passion for helping those with hair loss to look and feel good. Knowing how sensitive I was about my alopecia, Sandy welcomed my sister and I to her salon before it opened. She helped me choose a wig and style it so that people who saw me did not even realize that I was wearing a wig. It was important to me to feel as normal as I could. I walked out of the salon that morning a new confident person. Over the years, Sandy has stuck with me through every new kind of hairpiece, reminding me of the progress I’ve made with my acceptance of my hair loss. Sandy has truly changed my life. I can’t imagine where I would be today without her. Her support has given me the confidence to return to college to complete a degree and start a local support group to help others who have alopecia areata. Now, I am willing to step out in front of people without worrying about them staring at my hair or feeling I need to hide myself. Sandy Mercante’s talents extend beyond the stylist’s chair. In her own way, she counsels women, men and children afflicted by an array of diseases. Her guidance helps them with something extremely important but oftenoverlooked in medical exams: their self-esteem. Sandy also volunteers her time at the annual National Alopecia Areata Foundation Have a Ball and Bowl Fundraiser; attends the NAAF Delaware Alopecia Areata support group meetings and all this is done without self-promotion. Sandy, please know in your heart everyday that what you do makes a huge difference in people’s lives. You are a blessing! ~ Liz DeCarlo Precision Hair‎ & Wig 7 Liberty Plaza Newark, DE 19711 (302) 369-3311 www.PrecisionHairAndWig.com www.TheWomensJournal.com

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Eyelash ExtensionsYour Best Accessory For the Holidays

www.LastingLooksForYou.com or call 302-635-7327

I am sure you have questions…

Frequently Asked Questions about Eyelash Extensions What are eyelash extensions? By Melisa A. Ferriola, CPCP, LE

yelash Extensions! They are THE accessory for so many women. No fuss, no smudge, waterproof, natural or dramatic, affordable and safe. Eyelash Extensions have become so popular that they are rivaling the monthly nail treatments at the best salons around. Take a close look at celebrities Kelly Rippa, Kim Kardashian, Drew Barrymore, Jennifer Lopez, Jennifer Love-Hewitt, and Gwen Stefani to name only a few. They have been wearing extensions since the early 2000’s. Lucky for us, this “trend” is not just a trend anymore and not just for celebrities.

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As they have become more popular and recognized by the mainstream, licensed estheticians have been adding this skill to their resumes. They are a fantastic alternative and have gained tremendous popularity – with the rest of us - because of their natural look, ease of application, and yes, affordability. But,

The extensions themselves are perfectly polished polyester points. They come in a variety of thicknesses, colors and degrees of curl. A talented technician can create the perfect “lashscape” for your facial features and desired look.

How long do they last?

Your lash extensions, when properly applied, will last as long as your natural lash is attached to you. Some will pop off, but with a good adhesive and technique you’ll be able to enjoy your lashes for a few weeks. To keep your lashes looking fresh, Lasting Looks recommends refining fills every 2 to 4 weeks.

How long does it take to apply lashes? Extensions are applied one lash at a time with care and precision. This takes time and depends on the set size your choose. At Lasting Looks, we like to keep eyelash extensions affordable for all budgets and therefore, offer different two size sets: Demi and Full. Set sizes are not universal and can

October-Pumpkin Facial $60 November-Demi Set $75 December-Full Set $125

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be independently defined by a salon. Be sure to ask about the number of lashes you are getting when you are booking your appointment.

My nail salon does lash extensions for only $20. Are these the same?

Other salons are offering clusters, flairs and strip lashes that take only a few minutes to apply and cost a lot less. Or worse, they are applying individual lashes with very poor technique gluing several of your natural lashes with potential harm. Choose carefully.

My teenage wants these. Is this recommended?

Most teens have naturally long and strong lashes and find that extension are not necessary. But they are awesome for a more dramatic look with applied for Proms and Senior Portraits – without fussing with clumpy mascara. Because they grow out naturally, your teen (or you!) can get a one-time set without ongoing maintenance.

Whether you want lashes for your wedding day, the upcoming holiday party season or an everyday look to restore lashes of your youth, Lasting Looks has the professional, perfected technique, applied by a licensed, certified and experienced Eyelash Extension Specialist. Safe and affordable, trust your eyes to Lasting Looks! www. LastingLooksForYou.com 57

Who would benefit from eyelash extensions? The Teen, for Proms and Senior Portraits The Business Professional, for a polished image The Blushing Bride and bridal party, for a joyful celebration The Mature Retiree, to bring back the lashes of her youth The 20-Something, for a glamorous night on the town The Fitness Enthusiast, for looking great while working hard The Natural Blond, for dark, dramatic lashes.

Before

Profile: In 2006, after a 20 year corporate career, Melisa Ferriola opened Lasting Looks – a permanent cosmetics studio, lash bar and day spa located in Hockessin, Delaware. The Lasting Looks mission starts with the desire to

After empower women to take charge of their appearance and to put their best image forward. Our staff of estheticians can help meet all your skincare needs, as well as our unique services like eyelash extensions and permanent cosmetics.

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Recycle Your Unworn Jewelry For A Happier Holiday

Free up some cash for Holiday gifts or for that Winter Vacation you have always wanted ...

By Nick Dellaquila General Manager Jewelry Exchange Of Delaware As the owner Roberta Kozak’s oldest son, Nick has been General Manager of the Jewelry Exchange of Delaware for the past 3 Years. Together with his younger sister Corey Grabowksi they own and operate two locations one in Historic Lewes and the other in Stately Greenville.

We Buy Gold Too… It seems you can’t get very far today without seeing those three little words… The “We Buy Gold” phenomenon is a result of the recent shift in global economic markets in the past few years. The Value of Gold has simply skyrocketed to unimaginable levels. Many people are unaware that the safest, most reliable and most beneficial place to go to sell your Gold and Silver is at your favorite local Jewelry store. Most Jewelry stores are willing and able to buy your unwanted Gold and Silver. Why not go where you have comfortably shopped in the past? Why not go somewhere you are confident that they will not be “gone tomorrow”? Why not go where you have a choice to either sell your items or in many cases receive a trade in value that is even more? Why not go somewhere where your good condition jewelry can be purchased as Jewelry and not as scrap? Your local Jewelry store is the smartest place to take your unwanted Gold and Silver!

So who sells their gold and unwanted Jewelry?... In a word - Everyone! We see people from all walks of life from many diverse socio economic backgrounds come in with Jewelry that is broken, unworn, unwanted, or simple all the above. Some people need cash to pay bills, some just would rather have the extra $$, others just don’t want excess lying around tempting would be thieves... Let’s face it, the economy today could be better and is forcing everyone to think a bit differently.

We then evaluate your items, often finding hidden value - monetary and/or sentimental.

•

We then will show you what the current price of Gold is and explain how that is broken down by the different purities (10kt, 14kt, 18kt, etc)

•

Finally we show you a spreadsheet that will give you a breakdown of what we will pay you today in cash for each item, what we will offer you in trade and what we would be willing to consign your item for.

•

Unfortunately most people unknowingly go to one of the dedicated gold buying places and simply do not get the maximum monetary value their transaction deserves… These places include: •

n past issues I have outlined how beneficial it is to look to your local Jewelry stores to sell you unwanted Gold and Silver Jewelry and how and why to avoid the pit falls of the “We Buy Gold” phenomenon. What better time is there to review than now as we head into the Holidays when everyone can use a little extra cash? Also, I would like to elaborate on how to maximize your Holiday purchase power with our trade option.

•

• • •

We often have times where we listen to your memories of the items and understand how you really hate to part with a particular item; in these situations we can recommend redesign ideas of the sentimental piece to suit your current style. Some pieces are worth more than their weight monetary value and we feel that as a family business it is our duty to help point that out when we feel it necessary.

We Trade too… Keep in mind that you always get 20%-40% more in trade value to be used for a new purchase here at the Jewelry Exchange of Delaware. During this Holiday Season this might just be a great way to give a great gift!

Jewelry Exchange

Brightly painted “We Buy Gold” newly opened store fronts Mall Kiosk Hotel “Gold Party” Sell your Gold by Mail

of Delaware

While all of these may seem to be convenient options they all have negatives that are a little different except for one major commonality - They are all in business to profit solely on your gold value - they keep the lights on, pay the rent, and put money in their pockets. When you use your local Jewelry store you get to enjoy the benefit of selling your gold to the same people you trust when you buy jewelry.

Buy - Sell - Trade - Consign - Redesign The elegant place to sell or trade unwanted jewelry.

4001 Kennett Pike Greenville, DE 19807 302.397.8336

At the Jewelry Exchange of Delaware we pride ourselves in taking our time with each and every client and making sure you will understand all of their options when selling your Jewelry. •

From there you are at your own discretion whether to sell, trade, or consign with us. If you decide you are not ready to sell you are welcome to think about it.

•

First we invite you into a private office. To us the sanctity of your business is paramount. 58

142 Second Street Lewes, DE 19958 302.644.3435

www.jewelryexchangeofdelaware.com www.TheWomensJournal.com

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It’s Always Bra Season At BARE ESSENTIALS! By Debbie Esslinger, Owner

here’s a slight chill in the air, which always signals the beginning of the fall and winter season. We have been busy in the shop filling the sales racks with plenty of beautiful bras, panties, shapers and swimwear. With 75% off regular price, it’s time to take advantage of some great bargains and treat yourself to a bra evaluation by one of our experienced fitters. We recommend that you be remeasured and evaluated once a year since our bodies can change drastically from one season to another. As I am sure you know, how you looked and felt 12 months ago may not hold true today. Our bodies never stop changing no matter what age we are. Bare Essentials is a modern bra boutique that caters to your intimate apparel needs and offers knowledgeable and understanding fit consultants. They will address your concerns and answer your questions. Whether you are a high school girl, a young professional, a mature executive, a stay at home mom or happily retired; we are all in need of a good fitting bra that is comfortable and provides us with the look that suits our personality and body type. We typically assist our customers with trying on the bras and demonstrating how a bra should be worn. However, if you prefer more privacy, we will evaluate the fit of the bra once you have it on. The average time for a bra fitting is normally 30 minutes. Bra fittings are complimentary and never require an appointment. This fall, we are introducing a younger line of bras with a bit more color and flair. Both the Betsey Johnson and B’tempted lines offer adorable bras, bikinis and thongs. Perfect for now, perfect for the holidays. Special occasions are no problem for our fit consultants as we offer a large selection of strapless and convertible bras in many sizes and styles. Try us on for size and see how much better you will look and feel. Visit our website at MYBARESHOP.COM for more information about the shop and monthly specials. www.TheWomensJournal.com

Bare Essentials Bra Boutique

4009 Concord Pike

Wilmington, De 19803

MyBareShop@aol.com 302-477-4888

www.mybareshop.com

Fittings: Mon-Sat 10-6, Wed 10-7

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Offering Hope, Strength, And Courage For Breast Cancer Survivors! chemotherapy. Our line of Lindi Skin care products can help make these problems more manageable.

of every 100 people suffers with Alopecia Areata, or unnatural hair loss. This is a common autoimmune disease that, while not life threatening, can also have psychological and emotional effects similar to those experienced by cancer patients.

When to Start? If possible, we recommend starting even before treatment begins. An initial consultation before hair loss begins, allows us to match hair color and style as closely as possible. In some cases, hair loss can be unnoticeable. Dee Anderson – Owner

What can I expect? Hair loss generally starts between 10-14 days after your first cancer treatment. The amount of hair loss a woman will experience varies between the individuals and the strength of the medication. At this point we can help you decide the best approach for you. In addition, many patients experience severe dry skin as a side effect of radiation and

That’s why The Beautiful “U” is here to help!

We provide products that are natural looking and beautiful, that will improve a patients’ outward appearance and help them regain a greater sense of well-being.

Delaware

If you or someone you know and care about is undergoing cancer treatment you understand how drastically life can be altered during this time. Dealing with the disease’s symptoms and treatments is difficult enough, but in the case of women and children, coping with the extreme changes in outward appearance may seem devastating as well.

Specializing in all types of hair loss for men and women.

The psychological and emotional effects of chemotherapy related hair los s can be terrifying resulting in stress, anxiety, and many levels of depression. It can also result in loss of self-esteem and confidence.

Hair Restoration: We are the only hair restoration studio in the area that offers the Virtual Reality and Virtuesse systems. These hair treatments allow us to provide our clients with full, thick and beautiful heads of hair that will provide them with a younger, more confident look.

Cancer treatment is not the only condition that can result in hair loss. One out

Laser hair Treatment: Laser allows us to provide our clients with softer, thicker looking hair that is all natural using low-level lasers to rejuvenate your normal hair follicles to increase their rate of growth and reverse balding patterns. Laser hair therapy is best for those in the beginning stages of hair loss. Beautiful 100% human hair wigs and hair additions for women undergoing chemotherapy, or with thinning hair, alopecia, or other types of medically related hair loss.

Delaware Hair Solutions Phone: (302) 525-6241 www.DelawareHairSolutions.com 1082 Old Churchman’s Rd. Suite 200, Newark, DE 19713 60

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5 Benefits Of Exfoliation By: Erica Suppa, BS, LE, COE

xfoliation is a process that removes dead skin cells from the upper layer of the skin, revealing the healthy skin underneath. Regular exfoliation can help keep skin looking fresh, removing any dry patches or flakiness. In addition to cleansing your skin, exfoliating on a regular basis (once or twice a week at home and once or twice a month professionally) can improve the results of your skin care routine and help rejuvenate your skin.

Whether you have dry, normal, oily or sensitive skin, exfoliation can bring new life to your complexion. The removal of dead skin cells helps keep pores from becoming clogged and leaves skin with a refreshed and clean feeling. Why would you want clean and clear pores? Clogged pores can result in blackheads and acne. Likewise, when pores are clogged, they appear larger. Although you cannot reduce the actual size of your pores, you can help to minimize their appearance by keeping them clog-free. In addition to the immediate visual benefits of exfoliation, the removal of dead skin cells speeds up the skin renewal process, allowing smoother, healthier skin cells to take their place. Not only will this help with fine lines and wrinkles, but it will also help to lessen discoloration as well. There are two basic types of exfoliants; physical exfoliants and chemical exfoliants. Physical

exfoliants work to remove dead skin cells using friction. Examples of physical exfoliants include scrubs, microdermabrasion, and dermaplaning. Chemical exfoliants do the work for you by essentially dissolving the “glue” that is binding the dead cells to your skin. Enzymes, chemical peels, and acids are examples of chemical exfoliants. A combination of both physical and chemical exfoliation is an ideal way to address skin damage from the top down, as well as from the bottom up.

Erica Suppa is the owner of Fresh Faced Skin Care, an advanced skin care clinic with locations in North Wilmington and in Historic New Castle. Erica has more than a decade of experience in the healthcare industry as an esthetician, skin care expert and research scientist. As a licensed skin care therapist, Erica specializes in advanced facial treatments and results-driven chemical peels that address the top three skin care issues for both men and women: acne, pigmentation and wrinkles. She offers a unique approach to skin Improves the results of your skin care products care by utilizing her scientific knowledge of Keeps your pores from clogging , keeping acne under control skin care ingredients Speeds up the skin renewal process, allowing smoother, and how they interact with the skin to achieve healthier skin cells to take their place phenomenal, lasting results her clients have Helps to lessen skin discoloration (uneven skin tone) been searching for. Leads to visibly brighter skin and softer fine lines and wrinkles Why spend money and not get results?

Top 5 Benefits of Exfoliation 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Testimonials: I’ve been visiting Erica’s studios for well over a year now, and have never looked or felt better in my life! My skin is naturally acneic, but thanks to regular Microderm and PCA peels, it has dramatically changed! In fact, I rarely break out at all anymore. Erica has a God given talent when it comes to skincare; she quickly identifies issues and develops a customized skin care plan/regimen for each client. Her studios are elegant, beautiful, and calm, matching her to a “T”. Thanks Erica. I’ll continue to be a loyal client. ~ Jenn; Smyrna, DE Great service, extra clean and serene environment, products are awesome! Using 1 week and seeing SUCH a difference in my skin. ~ Erin; West Chester, PA I have been extremely satisfied with all the services I have had done at Fresh Faced Skin Care as well as all the products I have used. Erica not only provides the service, she knows what works with what. She knows the science about her products and services. She is extremely knowledgeable and shares this with her clients. ~ Debbi; Bear, DE

Call 302-689-3223 or visit www.freshfacedskincare.com 2 Locations To Serve You:

204 Delaware St. Unit C, New Castle, DE 19720 2417 Silverside Rd., Wilmington, DE 19810

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How To Have Beautiful Hair On Your Special Day wedding date to make certain that he/she can accommodate your time frame. Talk to your stylist for their recommendation for your pre-wedding hair care. No matter what type of hair you have, do a deep conditioning treatment once a week to restore moisture. If your hair is oily, be careful to avoid your roots and condition only the length of your hair. Try to avoid heat as much as possible on your hair. And of course, trim, trim, trim -- dry heat will only worsen the dull appearance of damaged or split ends.

ost young girls dream of their wedding day from the time they start grade school. Then they grow up, fall in love, and the plannaing starts. The one item that many times gets forgotten is the hair, yes they often have a bridal hairstyle in mind, but let’s face it -- if it doesn’t work with your wedding day weather, you may be in for a bad hair day. A better bet is to come up with a plan for your hair that will work with the weather that Mother Nature decides to bless you with. Trust me you don’t want to be crying the blues because your hair looks like a limp noodle, nor do you want to have a wild style from the 80’s looking back at you in the photos that will be with you for the rest of your life, and don’t forget you want the hair to fit with your wedding style. It may sound crazy, but check the weather history for the month that you are planning to tie the knot. The weather will always be a factor on your wedding day style. If you are planning to have your stylist come to the site where you are having everyone dress for the wedding, then you have to be certain that your hair stylist can work you in to his/her schedule. Or if you are going to his/her salon with your entire wedding party, this also needs to be discussed in the very early stages. You should visit your hair stylist even as early as a year before your

If the weather is damp and humid, no matter what your natural hair texture is, you’re going to need to work with what you’ve got. This is not the time or the place to try to make a curly mane stay straight -- chances are you’ll wind up with a total mess. Prep your locks by regularly using a frizz-fighting serum. Comb a few drops through soaking wet hair to be sure it gets distributed evenly. On your wedding day: The last time you wash your hair before the wedding don’t rub -you’ll rough up any broken or damaged hairs, increasing the chance of frizz. Your stylist should apply a de-frizzing serum. And finish your dry style with a second application of frizz-fighter (pomade or gel works best). You might want to keep a little on hand throughout the wedding day for smoothing down any hair that may curl up.

hair care routine that includes regular deep conditioning treatments and trims every 4–6 weeks. 4 Months Before – Schedule your hair and makeup bridal trial, reserve your wedding date and bridal party services on the salon’s schedule. 2–3 Months Before – Collect photo inspiration of different hair and makeup styles you’d like to see at your bridal trial. 1 Month Before – Get your hair and makeup trial completed together. This allows enough time before the wedding if you want to try a new style but is close enough to keep your look fresh. 2 Weeks Before - Get your final hair trim and deep conditioning treatment, touch up your color and/or highlights. Day of - Receive your hair and make-up services. It is recommended that these be the only services you receive on your actual wedding day. You will find the trends for 2013 versatile, interchangeable, and easily mixed and there is something for all hair types.

As you create the schedule of your wedding day, make certain to schedule properly. From our experience, we recommend scheduling your hair appointment approximately seven hours before your ceremony if you will have formal posed portraits beforehand and four hours before your ceremony, if you are having your formals afterwards. We Don’t Do Bad Hair Days recommends the following: (Pre-Wedding Checklist) 6 Months Before - Experiment with different cuts and colors, find your look and begin a

Q Salon & Spa 110 Wilmington West Chester Pike Chadds Ford, PA 19317 610-358-6088 info @qsalonspa . com www . qsalonspa . com 62

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PURPLE SAGE TEA & GIFT SHOP A place to pamper the mind, body and soul --Find unique gifts that bring joy!

Conveniently located in the heart of Historic Middletown • 41 West Main Street, Middletown, 19709 302.378.2123 • PurpleSageTea .com • Free Tea duJour Tasting • Organic Teas & Coffees

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greatfoods

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Just A Dream

food sourcing as much as possible from our local farmers. Creating a peaceful environment with food options for vegans, vegetarians, meat eaters, and food allergies. Community could gather sharing their art, crafts, music, books, and ideas.

By Jenn Adams

riving past the corner of Lovering and Lincoln in Wilmington, DE, mom and I commented that corner had so much potential. The space became available. We pondered could we operate a small cafĂŠ? We loved to cook. I had connections with local farmers and vendors. We decided if we didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t give it a shot then we would always wonder. We dreamt a little cafĂŠ where people could enjoy chemical free

Jenn Adams is originally from Illinois and grew up in a farming family. She understands the importance of supporting local farms. Her mission is to educate and provide quality local and organic food for the community

Publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Testimonial: If you have not tried this wonderful cafĂŠ then you are truly missing a unique, wonderful food experience. The food is extremely fresh, and it is wonderfully prepared. I love the quaint atmosphere as well.

4UESDAY THRU &RIDAY AM n PM s 3ATURDAY AM n PM

We often joke it was a temporary moment of insanity. We were terrified yet excited. We created our dream and the community began to fill our chairs and hearts. We are grateful to be living this dream and providing real food to our community. Fresh Thymes, a quaint cafe nestled near Trolley Square , Wilmington, DE provides a local, organic, & seasonal food experience. Operated by a passionate mother-daughter team providing nutritious food made with lots of love. We also provide gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, and omnivore options. We look forward to meeting you soon! More information can be found www. facebook.com/freshthymes.

. ,OVERING !VENUE s 7ILMINGTON $ELAWARE

FRESHTHYMES VERIZON NET 3PECIALS EVENTS POSTED EVERY DAY AT WWW FACEBOOK COM FRESHTHYMES

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LUNCHEONS Upstate

Tuesday, December 3

Chase Center on the Riverfront Keynote Speaker: Janice E. Nevin, M.D., MPH Chief Medical Officer, Christiana Care Health System

Presented By

Downstate

Thursday, December 5

DiFeboâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bistro at Bear Trap Dunes Keynote Speaker: Deborah Brenner, Author & Founder of Women of the Vine

Tickets & Info: DelawareToday.com â&#x20AC;˘ 302.504.1364 â&#x20AC;˘ Tickets@DelawareToday.com Custom sponsorships available at a variety of price points. For more information: 302.504.1326 or sales@DelawareToday.com

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200 Water Street Wilmington, DE 19801 for tickets call: 302-594-1100

www.delawaretheatre.org

for behind-the-scenes news and contests, follow us today! www.TheWomensJournal.com

Dr. Seuss’ Green Eggs and Ham & The Story of Babar Three actors...two books...one piano! You’re invited to spend the holidays with friends in this vaudeville-inspired celebration of two classic stories. December 16-29, 2013 Best for Ages 4 and up 65

Host your next event at TheGrand! Live Entertainment Baby & Bridal Showers Weddings Lectures Retirement Parties Cocktail Receptions Conferences Networking Events

Copeland Hall

baby grand theater

Sarah Bernhardt Salon

History Hallway

baby grand lobby

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Wesler Room

seniorliving

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Affording Senior Living: Presented by Suzanne Piechotta, Executive Director

hether you’re looking for a more carefree, maintenance-free lifestyle for yourself, or helping your parents explore their options, cost is, naturally, one of your first concerns when it comes to senior living. Even with all of the information available online, most families don’t know about the hidden gems—the many financial assistance programs that can make living in a personal care home an affordable choice. Many of us grew up in a time when our parents simply didn’t talk about money, and it can be a sensitive topic to approach. Often, children are unaware of their parents’ assets, which can make it difficult to know just how much financial assistance they will need to live comfortably. Enlisting the support of an outside expert, like a Personal Care Home Administrator, or a financial advisor, can help to start the conversation and make talking about these issues easier. Once you move past any

financial barriers, you can move onto the most important concern of all: enjoying a full, healthy life!

Veterans Benefits

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers an Aid & Attendance Benefit, a significant monthly pension for qualified veterans and surviving spouses, to help with the cost of living in a personal care home. The application process can be confusing, so Glen Mills Senior Living offers free assistance in determining eligibility and applying.

Elderlife Financial Services

Elderlife Financial Services offers a loan used as a line of credit with low monthly payments. Up to six people may share in the application, which is great for siblings contributing to their parents’ care. Each month, you simply request the amount you need, and the funds are sent directly to you. Glen Mills Senior Living provides assistance with this process.

An Answer for Every Family

Life Care Funding Group

Life Care Funding Group offers a service that can help you finance the cost of senior living through a Life Settlement: a transaction that sells your life insurance policy for an amount greater than the cash surrender value from the insurance company. Again, Glen Mills Senior Living can provide information on this Company. Glen Mills invites you to call them at 610-358-4900 to make a reservation for a complimentary lunch, learn more about Glen Mills Senior Living, or to discuss your family’s financing options. Please join us for the Glen Mills Senior Living’s upcoming events.

Testimonials The Lord has provided a safe and happy place for those that need assistance in

Glen Mills Senior Living Provides: Assistance with Activities of Daily Living Medication Management Special Dietary Menus Activity Program 24 Hour Staffing – Nursing 24 Hours/Day Emergency Call System Housekeeping and Laundry Services Nutritious Gourmet Restaurant-Style Dining Scheduled Local Transportation Respite or Short Term Stays are Also Offered

living their daily lives. We thank God for the wonderful, loving and attentive staff here at Glen Mills Sr. Living for all they do in caring for my Mom and Dad.

When my wife was first diagnosed with dementia, I had no idea where to take her. I could no longer take care for her needs. My retired pastor recommended Glen Mills Senior Living, since he had a dear friend living there and he thought it was a wonderful Community. Since she has been a resident, I am very pleased with the treatment and the amenities, cleanliness, and the friendliness of the staff. My wife is well taken care of and we both enjoy the entertainment that they bring in. I visit her every day.

Five Star Star Senior Senior Living Living * ** ** ** ** *Five

“it ’s ’s never never too too late late to to be be happy” happy” “it ...and have have fun!” fun!” ““...and Worry-Free Senior Living

in Beautiful Glen Mills, Pennsylvania Glen Mills Senior Living 242 Baltimore Pike Glen Mills, PA 19342

610-358-4900 w w w. G l e n M i l l s S e n i o r L i v i n g . c o m www.TheWomensJournal.com

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Kay Meade, 20-Year Volunteer, Made Delaware Hospice’s Camp New Hope Her Breast Cancer Treatment Finish Line! L

atching onto something meaningful helps individuals tolerate an ordeal. For Kay Meade, diagnosed last August with breast cancer, Delaware Hospice’s annual Camp New Hope became her goal. When first diagnosed, she learned that the treatment would last one year, and she said, “For me, the light at the end of the tunnel was that I was going to go through this, get finished and volunteer at Camp New Hope! The hope of New Hope was part of what kept me putting one foot in front of the other.” Kay’s mother was a Delaware Hospice patient in 1992. She said, “We were very close since she lived with us. Her illness and death were especially tough on my children. Delaware Hospice offered the opportunity for them to go to Camp New Hope, their special program for grieving children and teens. I was blown away by how wonderful this grief camp was. I had never thought about kids and grief. I was always trying to keep my own grief away from them, protecting them, rather than expressing it and allowing them to express their own. I realized the New Hope Program was a wonderful thing that truly made an impact in our community, and I wanted in on it. I signed up for the next training and became a volunteer in 1994.”

Camp New Hope Coordinator, Robin Murphy said, “Kay is full of life and she exudes a spirit of joy and healing to all she comes in contact with. Kay has been a Camp New Hope volunteer for twenty years, and she is an inspiration to all of the campers and volunteers as her joy for life is infectious. She is one of the original leaders of the Camp New Hope band and her passion has kept the tradition of singing the Camp New Hope song alive through the years.” Kay explained her dedication to this program: “This is important work Delaware Hospice is doing.

do it differently. “I was not going to go in trembling and sniveling. I decided, as a songwriter, that I would write a new song for the radiation staff every Monday. The first day, I entered the treatment room and said, ‘I have a song for you,’ and the technician asked, ‘A song? You’re going to sing?’. So I sang these lyrics about radiation that I had put to a familiar tune. When I came out of radiation, everyone was laughing and trying to sing it. The next Monday five people were there to hear the new song, and now everyone’s waiting for me to arrive on Monday mornings.”

It’s worth your time, even for those of us who devote vacation days or take time without pay. The entire family is touched by Camp New Hope. Families have so much to deal with after a loss. You want to protect and shield your children, which is not always the best choice. When you see them attend Camp and learn to process and be open about their loss, it penetrates through to everyone in the family and opens channels of communication.”

“For example, I remember hearing about the flower pot activity. Campers are given a clay pot and a mallet and instructed to break it into pieces. Then they glue the pieces back together and plant a flower in the pot with all its cracks. They can easily understand the symbolism of their lives being shattered by loss, the rebuilding of their lives--which will always carry the scars of that loss, and the fact that new life will grow. You listen, you cry a little, and you decide that perhaps you too can put yours back together. It’s sometimes good for everyone to receive these concepts simply, like a child.” Kay was pleased with a new job offer last summer and proceeded to get physical and dental examinations completed beforehand. That’s when lumps were discovered in both breasts. She went through more than her fair share of challenges and hardships during the first six months. When she began her latest round of eight-week radiation treatments, she was determined to 68

Obviously this doesn’t minimize the discomfort of treatments, but Kay feels that she’s blessed by having the staff know her as a person, rather than just another patient, and it makes it a positive experience for everyone.

amazed and I’m eternally grateful for the love and support that has been poured on me by family and friends. My Milford Community Band family has been unbelievable, taking turns to drive me to Christiana Hospital every day.” “I’ve learned to appreciate what I have and not dwell on what I’ve lost. Ever since middle school, I’ve worn my hair long enough to cover my ears. Now it’s short and curly and everyone loves it. So at the age of 58, I’ve just had my ears pierced!” “Be present; be open to the positive things in your life; search for them. With your focus on the good and on all the blessings that God has given you, you will get through.”

With Camp New Hope as her goal, Kay faced the inevitable delays and hurdles in scheduling. She said, “With the first diagnosis, I heard five months of chemo, surgery and radiation, and I thought ‘I’ll finish in time.’ But then there was another surgery, which delayed radiation, and I thought I wouldn’t. It’s been like a race, but it’s worked It’s more than glass slippers and out perfectly. My last dose will be the day before camp. I’ll walk out handsome princes. the door of that hospital a free and healed woman and go to Camp New It’s about Anna and her Grandpa Hope! It’s going to be wonderful and Kay make-believe Meade’s adventures. two children, to be with the campers and help Andrew and Amanda, who them in their grief, especially with At Delaware Hospice, we believe it’s about living benefited from Camp New Hope my heightened sensitivity from fully. That’s why we work to make each day the when they were young, have watching my own grown children best it can be.as So this Sunday afternoon served counselors and with also worry about me.” Grandpa can live in Anna’s heart forever. provided music for several years Kay advises anyone coping with at Kent and Sussex County’s us for a quality of care that improves the such a serious illness or ordeal to CallCamp New Hope. quality of living at 855-DEL-HOSPICE (335-4677). take things one day at a time and look for the blessings in each day. “There are so many things we take for granted. We never perceive them in such vivid depth as when we go through a life-threatening www.delawarehospice.org illness. I’ve been humbled,

story time with Grandpa

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ANNA C. GIACALONE, DMD Artist in Cosmetic Dentistry “I have been in practice for over 22 years and always relied upon my patients and colleagues to refer new patients. I am honored by the trust these individuals place in me by referring friends but in recent years I realize that this is not enough. I knew I needed an ethical and tasteful way to let my community know about my ethics, practice philosophy and training. I found such a vehicle with The Women’s Journal. I feel good about helping to inform the readers about important health issues while simultaneously allowing them to get to know us. Many wonderful patients have found us as a result of our Women’s Journal articles.” AMY MARTA CARNEY, Owner Clutter Bugs, LLC “ The County Women’s Journal has been a wonderful experience for me and my business! I can’t thank them enough. Advertising with them has been a complete joy from start to finish. I have only had positive feedback and I know that will continue. I would not do it any other way!!” MELISA FERRIOLA, CPCP • Lasting Looks “Honestly, I was reluctant to do yet another print ad for my business. I had not seen results in past advertising attempts and it was hard to make another such investment. But something told me that The Women’s Journal would be different. Is it ever! I saw immediate, direct results in my business! The Women’s Journal reaches my target audience and because it is so informative to perspective clients, they follow through and I get the sale. I have the bottom line to prove it! Thank you so much.” FRED WINWARD, President Resort Landscaping “We have built our business on the readership of the Women’s Journal: I cannot believe the amount of business we receive from our articles.” JOAN CARRERO, Director of Marketing • NASE Insurance “The best customer response our company has ever had from our advertising dollar.” DR. BEN E. BENJAMIN, Founder Muscular Therapy Institute “The Women’s Journal readers who see me for treatment are earnest, intelligent people who are serious about their health and well-being. It is a pleasure to work with them. My articles in the Journal are worth their weight in gold.” BRENDA PAVLIC, CPhT SaveWay Compounding Pharmacy “We are getting tremendous feedback, I am really glad we did this, it has added more pressure, and bringing in more business, but worth it!”

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