Best Self Atlanta 1019-1119

1019_000-001_COVER.indd 2

9/25/19 3:08 PM

A Beautiful Life I S A L WAY S I N S T Y L E

MAK E SAN T É M D YO U R D E S T I N AT I O N F O R TRA NSF O R M AT I V E B E AU T Y , H E A L T H & W E LLN E S S At SantéMD, we offer a curated suite of nonsurgical and surgical solutions to help you look and feel your “Best Self.” Begin your SantéMD journey with a complimentary VISIA ® Complexion Analysis & a Fit3D ® Body Analysis.

Our Services MEDICAL:

AESTHETICS:

• Fit3D Body Analysis

• VISIA® Complexion Analysis

• Functional Medicine

• HydraFacial®

• Medical Weight Loss

• Photofacial & Fraxel

• Vitamin IV Therapy

• CoolSculpting®

• Hormone Replacement

• Venus Legacy™ Body Contouring

• Laser Pain Management

• Vivace™ Microneedling RF

• Sexual Dysfunction

• SkinPen® Microneedling

• Allergy Testing & Treatment

• Ultherapy® Treatment

• Nutritional Counseling

• Laser Hair / Vein Removal

®

• Massage Therapy

• Botox®, Juvéderm® & Injectables

• Surgical Procedures

• VI Peel®

404-448-2732

1019_002-005_MASTHD.indd 2

|

SANTÉMD.COM

9/20/19 3:15 PM

The Natural Way To Freedom From Allergies Atlanta’s Allergy Drop Experts | Board Certified Allergists

Do you suffer from Allergy, Sinus, and Asthma problems?

• Board certified allergy & immunology specialists • No-wait policy & same-day appointments • Award-winning team of allergists • Kid-friendly, effective treatment • Most insurance plans accepted

Dr Hurwitz, winner of “Best of 2018” Contest is now seeing patients in our

Smyrna/ Vinings location At Ivy Walk 1675 Cumberland Pkwy Suite 407 Smyrna, GA 30080

Alpharetta location

3300 Old Milton Parkway Suite 125 Alpharetta, GA 30005

2019 WINNER

my Vinings/Smyrna READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

Center for Allergy & Asthma Book online at caageorgia.com or call 770-459-0620

10 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU: Alpharetta • Acworth/Kennesaw • Carrollton • Douglasville • Griffin • Hiram • Newnan Peachtree City • Smyrna • Villa Rica 1019_002-005_MASTHD.indd 3

9/20/19 3:15 PM

#

COMMUNITY WOMEN’S CANCER PROGRAM

More women trust Northside Hospital Cancer Institute for their cancer care than any other program in the state. As Georgia’s leader for women’s cancer care, we’re proud to have the #1 community breast and gynecologic cancer programs in the entire nation.

Learn more at builttobeatcancer.com

1019_002-005_MASTHD.indd 4

9/24/19 9:56 AM

11:14 PM

bestself

atlanta

FOUNDER Sherri Adair

PUBLISHER Patti Stephens MANAGING EDITOR Laura Janelle Downey ASSOCIATE EDITOR Alex McCray ART DIRECTOR Dona Halliday GRAPHIC DESIGN/PRODUCTION A.J. Weston MARKETING AND EVENTS MANAGER Wyndi Kappes MEDIA CONSULTANTS – PRINT/DIGITAL David Leonard dleonard@atlantabestmedia.com Dawn DeSantis ddesantis@atlantabestmedia.com Amy Smith asmith@atlantabestmedia.com SENIOR MEDIA CONSULTANT/ NORTH ATLANTA REGION Witt Beckman witt@atlantabestmedia.com OFFICE MANAGER Gail Sawyer INTERN Katherine Sauceda CONTRIBUTORS Richie Arpino Nicole Letts Melanie Preis Karon Warren

For print, web, email and digital advertising information, contact us at: 80 W. Wieuca Rd. NE., Ste. 115 Atlanta, GA 30342 (404) 303-9333 x15 FAX (404) 303-0030

Inquiries and submissions regarding advertising and editorial should be directed to the address above.

Atlanta Best Media does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial content, nor does Publisher assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Readers are encouraged to notify Publisher when they suspect false advertising. Atlanta Best Media reserves the right to edit editorial for clarity and space availability. No content i.e. articles, graphics, designs and information (any and all) in this publication may be reproduced in any manner without written permission from Publisher.

bestselfatlanta.com

1019_002-005_MASTHD.indd 5

BEST SELF ATLANTA

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

5

9/23/19 2:31 PM

contents

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

(L TO R): ANDREIA GUILMET, CARRIE WRIGHT, MICHELLE FALCONER

10 one-of-a-kind paths to entrepreneurship. Be inspired by their success, tenacity, and positivity.

38

Catch the Wave Chef Pano I. Karatassos gives the Atlanta Best Media team a taste of how he “Beat Bobby Flay”

43

27

38

Making Sense of Metastatic Breast Cancer What it means and how to find the treatment and support you need

On the Cover:

This trio of trailblazing businesswomen includes Andreia Guilmet, founder of Brazilian Wax by Andreia; Michelle Falconer, owner of Bailey & Hunter Realty; and Carrie Wright, creator of Intown Salt Room.

Photography: Richie Arpino Hair and Makeup: The Green Room Agency 6

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

1019_006-009_TOC.indd 6

BEST SELF ATLANTA

SSOS

CHEF PANO I. KARATA

Photography by (top) Richie Arpino, hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency; (bottom) Sara Hanna Photography.

Wonder Women

bestselfatlanta.com

9/24/19 3:00 PM

Atlanta’s Best of Brows Our goal is to bring out your natural shape, and then grow and enhance that. We tweeze because that is the only way to be as precise as possible.

Get Into Brow Rehab: Brows grow on a four- to sixweek cycle. All brows, especially those that have been over-tweezed, need to be kept on a maintenance cycle to grow into their natural shape.

Alyson Hoag Atlanta’s Brow Guru

Before

After

(404) 849-0443 http://myimagejourney.com

4674 Roswell Rd NE • Atlanta, GA 30342

bestselfatlanta.com

1019_004-006_TOC.indd 7

BEST SELF ATLANTA

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

7

9/20/19 3:16 PM

In every issue 10

From the Publisher

12

Editor’s Letter

14

2019 Partners in Health

Be Your Best “Kid” Self

When the Going Gets Hard Learn From Atlanta’s Top Healthcare Experts

Best Bulletin

18

Best Bites

22

Best Health and Beauty

17

New Ideas and Activities

WHITNEY BARNHART (RIGHT) PERFORMS A HYDRAFACIAL® AND OXYGEN FACIAL COMBINATION

Healthy Eats and Treats Look Great, Feel Better

Best Fitness

24

Stay Strong and Active

Best Cause

60

A pizza party with Atlanta Braves shortstop Dansby Swanson and the Fly-K Fun Run kicks off LOVEFEST, a free family festival

61

Give-Back Guide

62

My Best Self

Community Volunteer Opportunities At 22, Marietta native Lauren Simmons became the youngest female trader on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange

60

24 CITYROW ARRIVES IN ATLANTA

8

1019_006-009_TOC.indd 8

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

BEST SELF ATLANTA

FESTIVAL FREE FAMILY LOVEFEST, A AT N RU N THE FLY-K FU bestselfatlanta.com

Photography by (top right) KVC Photography; (bottom right) Michael Feher Photography.

Photo courtesy of (bottom left) CITYROW.

17

9/24/19 3:10 PM

Pedicures starting at

$19.99 3555 Gwinnett Pl Dr NW #202, Duluth, GA 30096 (678) 990-0048 | tanzinails.com

Bariatric Innovations of Atlanta & General Surgery

Millions of Americans suffer from

404-250-6691

BariatricInnovationsAtl.com

ACID REFLUX

HEALTHY STOMACH

Don’t let GERD continue to interrupt your life...

GERD STOMACH

gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) caused by a weakness of the muscle that separates the stomach from the esophagus.

Symptoms could include chest pain, heartburn, regurgitation, sore throat and cough, which can impact sleep quality and interrupt daily activities.

Our board-certified physician Dr. Srinivasa Gorjala and on-site dietitian can help. We specialize in non-invasive, minimally-invasive and robotic techniques for general surgery that may alleviate GERD symptoms and improve quality of life. With a full spectrum of services, we provide on-site evaluations and a variety of treatment options.

6135 Barfield Road, Suite 150, Atlanta, GA 30328 bestselfatlanta.com

1019_004-006_TOC.indd 9

BEST SELF ATLANTA

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

9

9/20/19 3:16 PM

Meet our team of aesthetic dentists

from the publisher Be Your Best “Kid” Self!

When my son and daughter, Jeret Adair, 31, and Halen Adair, 26, were younger, I often found myself seeing the world from their perspective.

I would be reminded of my own childhood and when I was able to completely immerse myself in just having fun. Whether that was seeing how high I could swing (I always had to beat my sisters) or enjoying a “make funny faces” competition (the first one who laughs, loses, and that would normally be me), my three sisters and I were totally living in the moment and that moment was all that mattered.

Celebrating her 30th year in dentistry, Dr. Debra Gray King is a pioneer in cosmetic dentistry. She is one of less than 76 dentists worldwide to be an Accredited Fellow, which is the highest level of competence recognized by the prestigious American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). She has been featured on The Doctors, Extreme Makeover, The Wall Street Journal, and various media outlets.

As adults, we obviously cannot totally live our lives that way anymore but we need to take some lessons from our kids and be present in life’s happy moments. We can achieve this by making the conscious choice to choose gratitude over worry, and laughter over complaining.

Here’s my advice for setting yourself up for success to do just that.

“Edit” your list of friends: Surround yourself with positive people and you will be surprised how contagious their energy can be. Also, make the intentional decision to minimize time with people who are constantly negative.

Plan some fun: This can be as simple as a picnic in the park or as elaborate as a trip to somewhere new. And don’t take all of the fun out of the experience by overscheduling and overplanning. Take pleasure in the small things along the way. Literally stop and smell the roses. Often, the sights to really see are not in a brochure.

Dr. Charlie Cooper is an Accredited Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). He has transformed thousands of smiles and his cosmetic cases are used in lectures nationwide. Dr. Cooper studied at the world famous Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. He is a regular participant in the “Give Back A Smile” Program in which he and the ACCD donate their time and skills to help battered women achieve a new smile

Speaking of savoring every smile-worthy moment and choosing gratitude, I want to show some love to anyone who may be working through the journey of a breast cancer diagnosis. A little over one year ago, I was diagnosed with Stage 0, ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). This is often the earliest stage breast cancer can be diagnosed. I was very 2018 -after m lucky. After a lumpectomy to remove the y diagnosis.

F inding joy in t small tumor, I am being monitored by an he moment! amazing team to help ensure that it stays (L TO R): JERE T ADAIR, SHER RI ADAIR, HALE away. I cannot stress enough the importance N ADAIR of early intervention. So, get your mammograms!

Thank you to the team at OutPatient Imaging for detecting the cancer. Thank you to the caring radiology team at Northside Hospital and to my amazing surgeon, Brenda B. Simpson, MD, at Breast Care Specialists. And most of all, thank you, God. Sometimes a life-changing experience can be a powerful reminder to live each day like it’s our last.

All the Best!

Sherri Adair, Publisher

10

1019_010-011_PUB.indd 10

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

BEST SELF ATLANTA

Photo courtesy of (top left) Richie Arpino Photography.

Take a big break from technology: There is nothing more annoying than being excited to meet up with a girlfriend only to end up being the third wheel to her and her phone. Short of playing patty-cake, the two of you can be your best “kid” selves by laughing together, sharing stories, or trying new activities—none of which requires a cellphone.

Dr. Brett Reeve studied Dentistry at the University of Southern California where he earned a membership to the Honor Dental Society “Omicron Kappa Upsilon.” He is a Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the American Dental Association. In 2015, Dr. Reeve earned the Hero in Healthcare award for his constant service in the community and outstanding dental work.

Atlanta At l ant Center a Centerfor fo Cosmetic Dentistry Co smeti c D entistr 404.994.4509 | ACCDsmiles.com

bestselfatlanta.com

9/24/19 4:42 PM

Dr. Brett Reeve

Sustaining Member American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

Dr. Debra Gray King

Accredited Fellow American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

Call to schedule your consultation 404.994.4509 or visit us at www.ACCDsmiles.com

1019_010-011_PUB.indd 11

Dr. Charlie Cooper

Accredited Member American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

As seen on:

9/20/19 3:16 PM

from the editor When the Going Gets Hard As a publication dedicated to women’s health and fitness, it is imperative for us to cover the diseases that impact our population the most—breast cancer being one of those.

Every year, as our team decides how we will approach the issue, I am amazed by how much more there is to learn about the illness and am deeply moved by the life-altering impact it continues to have on wives, mothers, sisters, friends, and beyond.

represents top talent in the fields of Photo by: Sara Hanna

HAIR, MAKEUP, NAILS, AND WARDROBE.

The Green Room Agency represents award winning image creators that are ready to help you become your best self!

Let us handle all your hair, makeup and wardrobe needs!

Follow us on FB/IG @TheGreenRoomAgency thegreenroomagency.com 678.772.5088 678.772.5088 As seen on NBC, CNN, Bravo, TVOne, and more!

In Making Sense of Metastatic Breast Cancer, we dive into an area of breast cancer that is not often talked about. Known as stage 4, or the most advanced stage of breast cancer, this diagnosis means cancer that began in the breast has migrated to other organs in the body. For some, especially those in the African-American community, it can be their initial breast cancer diagnosis, for others it can come as a shock after surviving an early-stage breast cancer diagnosis. To understand what life is like for patients facing this ordeal and learn about the science behind metastatic breast cancer from local healthcare providers, turn to page 43.

In a way, you could say this issue is dedicated to women who aren’t afraid to face seemingly insurmountable challenges—health or otherwise. Our Wonder Women article (p. 27) profiles 10 female entrepreneurs who have pushed through obstacles to rise to the top of their field and build some of Atlanta’s most successful businesses.

Finally, our My Best Self profile shares the story of Kennesaw State University graduate Lauren Simmons, and how she became the youngest and only full-time female equity trader on the New York Stock Exchange.

No matter what you’re facing in life, I hope the stories and words of wisdom in this issue will inspire you to never stop pushing forward.

Happy reading,

Coming in December/January Best of 2019: You voted for Atlanta’s best in health, beauty, fitness, and more!

The Year of Giving Back: Your go-to guide in 2020 for philanthropic opportunities, both big and small, in Atlanta.

Profile: Meet the Cain family and learn more about their Makayla Moving Autism initiative.

And more of everything for happy and healthy living in Atlanta!

12

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

1019_012-013_ED.indd 12

BEST SELF ATLANTA

Photography by (headshot) Sarah Diller’s Photographs.

Alex McCray Associate Editor

bestselfatlanta.com

9/23/19 3:37 PM

Call Today

770-292-2670

ReproductiveSurgicalSpecialists.com We are a full-service gynecologic and reproductive endocrinology practice that offers routine preventative care and specialized advanced treatment for patients ages 8 years of age and older.

Our board-certified physician, Dr. Carla Roberts, and our nurse practitioner, Cyndi Witt, provide a comprehensive patient-centered approach to women’s health care in a soothing, friendly and elegant environment.

GYN Services Include • Adolescent gynecology • Annual well woman exams • Bleeding abnormalities • Cervical cancer screenings • Contraception/birth control • Endometriosis/pelvic pain • Hormone replacement therapy

Carla Roberts, MD

Cyndi Witt, FNP-C

1800 Northside Forsyth Drive Suite 380 Cumming, GA 30041

Photography by (headshot) Sarah Diller’s Photographs.

Kind, Compassionate & Skilled Women’s Health Care

Our Address

bestselfatlanta.com

1019_012-013_ED.indd 13

BEST SELF ATLANTA

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

13

9/20/19 3:16 PM

2019 Partners in Health BARIATRICS PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Five Reasons Why Healthy Baby Teeth are Imperative to Your Child’s Overall Health and Well-Being

Losing Weight: Beyond Diet and Exercise!

By Michael D. Williams, MD, FACS & Brendon Curtis, MD

Laparoscopic & Endoscopic Surgery Institute, P.C.

Our surgeons at Laparoscopic & Endoscopic Surgery Institute, P.C. have over 25 years of experience in management of a wide array of bariatric and general Michael D. Williams, MD, FACS Brendon Curtis, MD surgical issues. They have both undergone extensive specialty training that has enabled them to incorporate cutting-edge technology and advanced minimally invasive techniques into their care for patients. Services offered include medical and surgical weight-loss options. Our general surgical services also cover a range of conditions, including gallbladder disease, acid reflux, hernias, small intestinal and large intestinal conditions, any lumps or bumps (e.g., lipomas, cysts) and more. Read article on p. 51. www.BariatricsMD.com

SPINE & BACK CARE

Back Pain Basics

What to Do and When to Worry

By Jacob A. Strong, MD

Resurgens Spine Center

By Azi Nia, DMD

Nia Pediatric Dentistry Azi Nia, DMD, is a board-certified pediatric dentist. Dr. Azi (as her patients call her) attended Georgia State University and continued on to the Medical College of Georgia to earn her Doctorate of Dental Medicine. In order to become a specialist in pediatric dentistry, she completed a 3-year residency at Colorado Children’s Hospital, where she also served as chief resident. Dr. Azi is dedicated to providing excellent pediatric dental care and building confidence in her patients. Creating a positive dental experience customized to each young patient is central to her practice’s philosophy.

Read article on p. 59. www.NiaDentistry.com

14

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

1019_014-015_PIH-BIOS - 9total Spread.indd 14

Jacob A. Strong, MD, received his medical degree from Wake Forest University School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. He completed his residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, and his fellowship in Musculoskeletal and Pain Medicine at UMDNJ/Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation in Newark, New Jersey. Dr. Strong is Board Certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and is a member of the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Read article on p. 52. www.ResurgensSpine.com

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Improving Your Golf Swing with Physical Therapy BenchMark Rehab Partners BenchMark Rehab Partners is a family of physical therapists, occupational therapists, and hand therapists committed to inspiring and empowering people to reach their full potential. Its providers know that connecting with patients on a personal level helps to build trust. This trust is crucial in allowing patients and therapists to work together to make the best use of advanced certifications and refined techniques. A focus on proven methods and a hands-on approach help the BenchMark team achieve the goals of the patient in a safe and effective manner. Read article on p. 50. www.BenchMarkPT.com

BEST SELF ATLANTA

bestselfatlanta.com

9/24/19 3:56 PM

2019 Partners in Health MEN’S HEALTH

DENTAL HEALTH

Can Using a Tongue Scraper Help with Bad Breath?

What Women Can Do for Men’s Health

By Daryl R. Kimche, D.D.S. & Luke K. Presley, D.M.D.

Kimche & Presley Cosmetic & Sports Dentistry

Dr. Kimche has been practicing Cosmetic and Sports Dentistry in the Buckhead area for over 30 years. She works with Georgia Tech athletes and the Atlanta Dream WNBA team. She creates beautiful smiles and is on call for sports-related emergencies. In 1989, she completed her residency in general dentistry at Emory University. Dr. Kimche has built her practice in Atlanta and serves over 15,000 patients.

Daryl R. Kimche, D.D.S.

Luke K. Presley, D.M.D.

Dr. Presley received his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Georgia. After graduating from the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine, he continued on to complete a General Practice Residency at Columbia University/Harlem Hospital Center. He has been practicing dentistry in the Atlanta area for over 13 years. Dr. Presley is a member of the American Dental Association, the Georgia Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. Read article on p. 54. www.KimchePresley.com

CONCIERGE MEDICINE

The Truth About The Effects of Aging

By Paul E. Cox, MD, MS

Vital Living Healthcare Board certified in antiaging and family medicine, Paul E. Cox, MD, MS, is an expert at turning back time. Firmly rooted in a scientific approach, Vital Living Healthcare focuses on early detection, prevention, and innovative treatments to reverse age-related decline. By using state-of the-art equipment and techniques, along with focusing on all aspects of your health (mind, body, spirit, and surroundings), Dr. Cox will create a comprehensive and personalized design for maintaining or reclaiming your health and vitality. Experience the healthcare you deserve and schedule your complimentary consultation with Dr. Cox today.

Read article on p. 57. www.VitalLivingHealthcare.com

By Scott D. Miller, MD

WellStar North Fulton Hospital Men’s health advocate Dr. Scott D. Miller is an innovative surgeon with one of the largest and most diverse experiences in laparoscopic and robotic urology in the Southeast. As one of Georgia’s best surgeons, Dr. Miller is guided by one consistent philosophy: focus solely on patients’ special needs and perfect the techniques necessary to deliver the best possible care. He believes that when patients have a better understanding of the conditions they are facing and how to improve their overall health, they have a chance to improve their quality of life.

Read article on p. 55. www.ScottDMillerMD.com

GASTROENTEROLOGY

Not Just a Man’s Disease

Don’t Ignore These Digestive Symptoms Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates

FITNESS

The Ties That Bond:

Make Friends and Get Fit at Windy Hill Athletic Club

By Trip Baisden

Windy Hill Athletic Club A longtime team member of Windy Hill Athletic Club, Trip Baisden has been promoted from director of tennis to general manager. The Virginia native spent more than 30 years in the tennis industry enabling him to craft award-winning programs that enhance the overall club experience. When not fulfilling his duties at the club, you can find Baisden spending quality time with his wife, Missy, their two children, Remmy and Harrison, and pets.

Read article on p. 56. www.WindyHillClub.com

bestselfatlanta.com

1019_014-015_PIH-BIOS - 9total Spread.indd 15

BEST SELF ATLANTA

For more than 40 years, Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates has been dedicated to providing accessible, affordable, and compassionate digestive healthcare services to communities throughout greater Atlanta. The practice’s board-certified specialists treat all types of digestive symptoms and disorders, as well as offer services like nutrition counseling, pelvic floor muscle training, and preventive colon cancer screenings.

Read article on p. 58. www.AtlantaGastro.com OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

15

9/24/19 3:56 PM

life. style. $

0 ENROLLMENT AND PAY NOTHING 'TIL NOVEMBER WHEN YOU JOIN BY OCTOBER 23

For more information, text your First and Last Name and the word “October” to 404.471.3541, or call us at 770.698.2000.

* Restrictions and terms may apply. Must be local resident, age 18 or older with Photo ID. First-time guests only.

Offer ends October 23, 2019 and cannot be combined with any other offer. ©2019 Wellbridge.

1019_016-017_BULLETIN.indd 16

9/24/19 9:57 AM

bestbulletin

Oprah Returns to Atlanta

Paying It Forward (L TO R): OVER 40 & FABULOUS! ALUMNAE KRISTIN ANDREE (2019 TOP 10 WINNER),TONYA GUILLORY (2019 COVER WINNER), AND LYNNE MCDONALD (2018 COVER WINNER)

Fun and games for a great cause, the Polo for Heroes Fundraiser on Sept. 7 garnered nearly $18,000 for the Wounded Warrior Project®, a nonprofit assisting veterans and service members who were injured or became ill or wounded on (or after) Sept. 11, 2001. Hosted by 2019 Over 40 & Fabulous! cover winner Tonya Guillory and Melanie and Daniel McFarland, along with BenchMark Rehab Partners and OMNI Healthcare, event guests cooled off with craft beverages from Six Bridges Brewing while watching an exhilarating match at Union Hill Polo Club.

Details: www.woundedwarriorproject.org

Photos courtesy of (top left) Tonya Guillory; (top right) OWN; (bottom right) American Cancer Society; (middle left) Richard Campbell. Photography by (bottom middle) KVC Photography.

Ditch the Dirt

Reach your new year goals with the help of Oprah Winfrey! As a part of her nine-city tour, “Oprah’s 2020 Vision: Your Life in Focus,” the media mogul will visit Atlanta on Jan. 25. Presented by WW (Weight Watchers Reimagined), during the daylong event at State Farm Arena, the star journalist will share the highs and lows of her wellness journey, host one of her signature sit-down interviews with a high-profile guest, and help attendees develop an action plan to live a stronger, healthier, and more abundant life.

Details: https://ww.com/us/oprah

Think you need soil to grow a garden? Think again.

Learn how to continually grow plants, vegetables, and flowers with only plastic, rocks, water, sand, and seeds during a 2019 Geological Agriculture (GeoAg) Sustainability Workshop. On Saturdays in October and November, the Atlanta–Fulton Public Library System and To Soil Less will host free GeoAg workshops covering the basics of geological agriculture, including micro farming, recycling, and more.

Details: https://eventbrite.com; www.tosoilless.com

Beating Breast Cancer

Beautifully Bright Let esthetician Whitney Barnhart help you tackle inflamed skin with a powerful combination of the HydraFacial® and Oxygen Facial at CentreSpring Spa. Ideal for those who suffer from rosacea and acne, the oxygen portion of the 60-minute facial brings impurities in the skin to the surface for deep cleaning and brightening, while the HydraFacial® part utilizes painless suction to extract dirt and bacteria for clear skin that glows.

Details: 1407 Dresden Dr., Atlanta; https://centrespringmd.com bestselfatlanta.com

1019_016-017_BULLETIN.indd 17

Join the American Cancer Society on Oct. 26 for the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Atlanta - Walk. Held at Centennial Olympic Park, thousands will come together to celebrate survivors, have fun, and raise money and awareness about the importance of saving lives from succumbing to breast cancer.

WHITNEY BARNHART (RIGHT) PERFORMS A HYDRAFACIAL® AND OXYGEN FACIAL COMBINATION ON A CENTRESPRING SPA CLIENT.

Details: 265 Park Ave. W. NW., Atlanta; 404-949-6474, www.makingstrideswalk.org/atlantaga

BEST SELF ATLANTA

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

17

9/24/19 3:03 PM

bestbites

Grilled Spinach Garlic Chicken with Spicy Street Corn Atlanta-based chef and the first African-American winner of “Food Network Star,” Tregaye Fraser is known for putting a fresh spin on tried-and-true recipes. Here, Fraser, who also works with the Thomas F. Chapman Family Cancer Wellness program at Piedmont to develop fresh, healthy recipes, shares easy enhancements to chicken and corn on the cob, and showcases her new line of plant-based spreads.

For the corn • 8 ears of corn • 2 cups almond milk • 5 cups grated Parmesan cheese • One 8-ounce container of Chef Tregaye’s Spicy Chilli Garlic Butter

(substitute, 1 cup butter with chili sauce/ paste, as desired) • ½ cup cilantro (roughly one bunch) • 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper • salt and pepper to taste • 8 wooden skewers

TREGAYE FR

DIRECTIONS For the chicken Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, granulated onion, dried parsley, and granulated garlic.

Add chicken to a smokeless grill or indoor grill. Grill chicken for about 2 minutes on each side. Add 1 tablespoon butter to each chicken breast.

Rotate chicken breast for

ASER

8 to 10 minutes, until completely cooked.

For the corn Fill half of a large pot with water.

Add almond milk and bring to a boil.

Add corn and boil for 10 minutes, then turn off heat.

Melt butter in a pan. Pour melted butter into a shallow dish. Add Parmesan cheese to another shallow dish. Place skewers into corn. Roll corn into butter, then roll buttered corn into Parmesan cheese and sprinkle with cilantro. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to each ear of corn and enjoy.

Details: http://cheftregayes.com

Juice Joy

Make Room for MetroFresh

Revamp your breakfast routine with the help of Clean Juice West Side Village.

From 100%-organic juices like The Immunity One with carrot, orange, and turmeric (pictured), to heartier options like sprouted hummus toast, Açaí bowls, and nutrient-packed salads, this new outpost is a destination for healthy food fast.

Known for his flavorsome and nutritious eats, Mitchell Anderson (pictured below) has opened a second location of MetroFresh. At the 1,900-square-foot restaurant inside One Midtown Plaza, diners can expect a rotating array of soups, salads, sandwiches and after-work small plates. Aside from delectable dishes such as coconut and octopus ceviche, the establishment will also showcase live music and have a full cocktail bar with seasonal signature beverages using farm fresh ingredients—making it the perfect pit stop before an evening at the nearby High Museum of Art. Plus, don’t feel like cooking after a long work day? Snag one of the restaurant’s takeaway dinner entrées. A weekly menu will be posted so busy bees can place orders in advance.

Details: 2260 Marietta Blvd. NW., Ste. 105, Atlanta; https://cleanjuice.com

18

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

1019_018-019_BITES.indd 18

Details: 1360 Peachtree St. NE., Atlanta; www.metrofreshatl.com BEST SELF ATLANTA

Photos courtesy of (top right) Tregaye Fraser; (bottom left) Lauren Vereen | Salut Media. Photography by (bottom right) Richie Arpino; (top middle) Tammy McGarity Photography.

INGREDIENTS For the chicken • 4 boneless chicken breasts • 2 tablespoons granulated onion • 2 tablespoons granulated garlic • 4 tablespoons Chef Tregaye’s Garlic Spinach Butter (substitute, 1 cup spinach blended with 1 cup butter and 2 tablespoons granulated garlic) • 1 tablespoon pink Himalayan salt • 1 tablespoon dry parsley • 1 teaspoon black pepper

bestselfatlanta.com

9/24/19 1:04 PM

REAL People.

REAL Smiles.

Let Your Smile Change The World If you are looking for a change in your life, you have come to the right dental office in Atlanta!

Dr. Kovitch and Dr. Giesler and our experienced team are here to help you capitalize on one of your greatest assets: your smile.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

give the gift of a smile!

Proceeds go to the Atlanta Smiles Foundation

Teeth Whitening Special $200.00 (reg. $375.00)

(bottom right) Richie Arpino.

Take home Custom Trays & Whitening Solution

ZOOM Professional Whitening System $395.00 (reg. $495.00) Includes in office whitening procedure and take home custom trays & solution for maintenance

Dr. Marianna Kovitch Dr. Dina Giesler

(404) 262-7733 4405 Northside Pkwy NW Ste 110 Atlanta GA 30327 www.atlantasmiles.com 1019_018-019_BITES.indd 19

9/24/19 10:33 AM

VININGS SURGERY CENTER NOW OFFERS LUMA PURE® TECHNOLOGY FOR MALE AND FEMALE HAIR RESTORATION LUMA PURE® IS A NEW MINIMALLY INVASIVE NON SURGICAL PROCEDURE WHICH IS THE FUTURE OF HAIR RESTORATION LUMA PURE® utilizes live nucleated stem cell therapy designed to repair and regrow your own hair. There is no down time and the treatment is done in an hour.

CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION! 770-955-9000 WWW.COLGROVE.COM

20

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

1019_020-021_FUN CAL.indd 20

BEST SELF ATLANTA

bestselfatlanta.com

9/23/19 10:53 AM

The No-Surgery Facelift Q

What is TransFirm®?

A

TransFirm® is a nonsurgical, minimally invasive treatment process. This comprehensive approach to facial restoration harnesses the power of nitrogen plasma.

BEFORE

AFTER

Q

Why is TransFirm® unique?

A

Unlike a traditional surgical facelift, the TransFirm® process stimulates collagen and elastin production. Collagen and elastin fibers are naturally produced by your body to provide skin with structure and support, but their production naturally declines over time. The combination of treatments may be used to enhance facial or jawline contours, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, target and destroy stubborn pockets of facial fat, and tighten loose skin.

Q

What can I expect from the treatment process?

A

While there may be some discomfort associated with treatment, numbing creams are utilized to promote your comfort. Although there is minimal downtime, you should be able to resume your normal daily activities! However, you may experience some bruising or general discomfort in the treatment area. Results achieved will vary for each person and their specific concerns. But, most people enjoy initial results within a few weeks, and results gradually improve as your body produces new collagen and elastin.

Holly Burman, CEO/Owner of New You Aesthetic, is a board-certified nurse practitioner with more than 14 years of gynecology experience and over 25 years of healthcare experience specializing in bioidentical hormone replacement, botulinum toxin injections, and nonsurgical facial aesthetics. Holly is a graduate of Emory University and resides in Marietta with her husband, Bill.

1019_020-021_FUN CAL.indd 21

New You Aesthetic www.NewYouAesthetic.com TransFirm.NewYouAesthetic.com 770-558-9773 9/23/19 10:53 AM

besthealth& beauty Before getting lash extensions, master aesthetician and founder of Luxury Lash, Paige Conner advises that you share your lifestyle and medical limitations with your lash artist. “If you have a thyroid condition, a lightweight extension should always be used to ensure that the weight of the extension and adhesive combined will not stress the follicle, which can cause premature lash loss. If you are active, you need an adhesive that will have longevity, especially during workouts.”

Details: 6160 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., Ste. B100, Atlanta; https://luxurylashlounge.com

Hair Rehab Worried about thinning hair? Turn to Vinings Surgery Center! Hair restoration treatments can be painful, expensive, and time consuming.

Luma Pure® is a minimally invasive nonsurgical procedure using stem cell therapy to repair and regrow your own hair.

Be a new, more confident you in as little as an hour! For more information, call: 770-955-9000 or visit: https://colgrove.com.

22

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

1019_022-023_Health-Beauty.indd 22

Smart Style When Brookhaven resident Reem Krisht (right) realized how much time she spent tucking in and fiddling with her workwear shirts, she decided something had to change.

The epiphany led to the creation of The Kat Bodysuit, a stylish business-appropriate apparel item, and the first piece in the REEM KAY collection.

From the boardroom to happy hour, this lightweight blouse-like garment ($39) with a supportive rayon and spandex bottom will comfortably stay put all day long.

Details: https://reemkay.com

Nyssa’s Nods Dermarolling

Photos courtesy of (middle right) Love & Pebble; (headshot) Nyssa Green, photography by Austin Holt; (bottom left) Liveyon LLC; (top right) Reem Kay, photography by Arish Jamil.

Luscious Lashes That Last

Dermarolling, a form of microneedling, has become incredibly popular as people discover that it can reduce scarring, enhance circulation, and even improve the look of stretch marks. More amazing is that one of the highest-rated dermarollers on Amazon was developed

by Atlanta entrepreneur Lynda Truong.

After spending hundreds of dollars on microneedling sessions, Lynda created the Love & Pebble Microneedle Derma Roller as an affordable ($23) at-home alternative that comes in a kit with four titanium replacement heads and sanitizing cups. Each head has teeny needles that you barely know are there! After rolling, your skin’s regeneration process kicks in, skin care products penetrate easier, and new cells come in. That’s when you get that glow, and Lynda wants us all to shine!

BEST SELF ATLANTA

Details: https://amazon.com

By Nyssa Green, professional makeup artist and founder of The Green Room Agency

bestselfatlanta.com

9/24/19 3:04 PM

12 Atlanta Influencers.

8 Stops.

Over 300,000 Followers. + Social Media Shares.

Don’t miss out!

2020 VISION OF BEAUTY INFLUENCER TOUR Follow along and see the Newest & Best Beauty Trends for 2020 through the eyes of Atlanta’s top beauty, lifestyle, mom, midlife and healthy living influencers • injectables • weight loss • lashes • brows • fitness • nails • waxing • nonsurgical facial rejuvenation • tanning • cryotherapy • cosmetic dentistry • feminine rejuvenation • nonsurgical body treatments • fitness • hormone therapy • hair style, color, cuts & more!

Follow Us At:

www.facebook.com/BestSelfAtlanta www.twitter.com/BestSelfAtlanta instagram @BestSelfAtlanta

A Production of Atlanta Best Media

1019_022-023_Health-Beauty.indd 23

9/24/19 1:56 PM

bestfitness A Warm Welcome

Turn up the Heat Inside a soothing industrial setting featuring a rotating gallery of local art, the new Bring It OM studio invites yogis of all levels to find their flow. Energetic power yoga classes are offered here, along with gentle, restorative teachings. All classes are heated (ranging from 80 F to 95 F) with infrared technology, which has been shown to stimulate blood flow and can help lower blood pressure and oxygenate organs.

Details: 56 E. Andrews Dr. NW., Ste. 11, Atlanta; https://bringitomyoga.com

Details: https://hotboxsaunastudio.com

Modern Fitness Methods At The Refinery, fitness fuses with technology. Inside the new gym and training facility, members can utilize the groundbreaking BIOCIRCUIT™ system.

Interconnected to six strength and two cardio machines, this digital program directs users through a custom 30-minute workout based on their profile and goals. The smart system will even adjust the machine to the right position and load the correct amount of weight/resistance for you!

Details: 2260 Marietta Blvd. NW., Atlanta; https://refineryfit.com

24

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

1019_024-025_FITNESS.indd 24

Fitness for All More than the average gym, Noble Clay is a fitness facility with a mission. Owners Ben and Laura Davis want every Atlanta resident to have access to affordable personalized fitness coaching. This is why they offer tiered membership prices based on an applicant’s income level and life circumstances.

Members of the exercise center, which is soon expanding to a new 3,000-square-foot location in Summerhill (near Grant Park), can also help someone in need enhance their health with the facility’s custom training programs and amenities by donating funds to a membership scholarship.

Details: 112 Ormond St. SE., Atlanta; https://nobleclayfitness.com

Making Waves

The rowing revolution is taking over Atlanta. Opening in November, CITYROW is a boutique fitness studio that delivers a highintensity, yet low-impact, full-body burn through a combination of water rowing and strength training. A single stroke on one of its 20 WaterRowers utilizes 85% of the body’s muscles in the legs, core, and arms—making this workout a winner for a total-body transformation.

Details: 805 Peachtree St. NE., Atlanta; https://cityrow.com

BEST SELF ATLANTA

Photos courtesy of (top left) HotBox; (top right) Bring It OM, photography by Looking For Lane Photography; (bottom right) CITYROW; (middle right) Noble Clay Fitness, photography by Envisioning Freedom, LLC. Photography by (bottom left) Steve Fellmeth.

Midtown, Sandy Springs, and Vinings are now home to HotBox infrared sauna studios. The popular LA-based brand invites guests to become Glow Getters™ and experience the wellness and recovery benefits of spending 45 minutes in one of its luxurious sauna suites that include a vitamin C rain shower.

In the future, the company plans to partner with nonprofits to bring the advantages of infrared heat to lupus, lime, and other disease patients.

bestselfatlanta.com

9/24/19 1:02 PM

mondays and tuesdays for a limited time!

No cuts, no color: Just wash, blo, and go.

Join us for flawless hair at Blo Blow Dry Bar.

blo buckhead

blo ponce

3400 Around Lenox Drive, Suite 213 Atlanta, Georgia 30326 404 390 3552 | blobuckhead@blomedry.com

blomedry.com

650 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Suite 620B Atlanta, Georgia 30308 404 549 3363 | bloponce@blomedry.com

@bloheartsyou

we also offer

makeup services!

(middle right) Noble Clay Fitness, photography by Envisioning Freedom, LLC. Photography by (bottom left) Steve Fellmeth.

*Valid at participating Blo locations for a limited time. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Some dates may be exempt from discount, inquire within.

JEJU SAUNA

3555 GWINNETT PLACE DRIVE, DULUTH, GA 30096

678.336.7414 | Across from Wild Bills Visit www.jejusauna. com for more information and more photos of our facility

•Meditate on Heated Jade Floors •Breathe in Gem Stone Steam Saunas •Bask in Dry Saunas (Salt, Clay, Jade, Charcoal) •Swim in the Jade Marble Jr. Olympic Size Pool •Soak in the Jade Marble Hot Tub •Warm & Cold Pools •Dine in the Authentic Korean Restaurant

Escape

JeJu Sauna

to

for Healing, Relaxation & Increased Energy

NOW OPEN:

ON THE 2ND FLOOR TANZI NAIL SALON!

ONLY $25 FOR THE ENTIRE DAY bestselfatlanta.com

1019_024-025_FITNESS.indd 25

BEST SELF ATLANTA

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

25

9/23/19 11:41 AM

1019_026-037_Women Entrepreneurs.indd 26

9/24/19 10:01 AM

Wonder Women

By Nicole Letts

10

Female Entrepreneurs Share How They Built Their Businesses from The Ground Up

According to Georgia.org, our state ranks No. 5 in the U.S. for the highest number of women-owned businesses.

Women-owned enterprises are booming, and with industry leaders like the ones in this article, we can only imagine that female-helmed firms will continue to thrive. Here, 10 of Atlanta’s female entrepreneurs offer insight into their career paths and advice for dreamers everywhere.

Helen Ngo

Photography by Elle Wood Photography.

Helen Ngo says she started Capital Benchmark Partners, located in Sandy Springs, because she, “Saw a need for one-on-one financial planning for younger women, especially those who are just starting off in their careers and who didn’t really have much guidance or accessibility to a financial planner.” And so her company was born.

Six years later, she helps women, primarily between the ages of 30 and 45, navigate all of the significant life changes that happen within that window of time. Think tackling student loan payments, purchasing a first home, and even getting married and merging finances—that means encouraging women to go after big dreams and big checks. “My mission is to inspire more women to want to make more money, and know that it’s OK to talk about that. To just open up dialogue, but also help them manage their spending and savings.”

Encouraging women to go after big dreams and big checks is at the heart of Helen Ngo’s business.

What is one word that describes your entrepreneurship journey?

Tenacious. You have to be pretty relentless and tenacious about promoting yourself and putting yourself out there. A lot of people think entrepreneurs just open the doors and people start pouring into your shop or your business, and you make money, but that’s not true. Being

an entrepreneur is all about your ability to generate money and bring in business. That has everything to do with

marketing and how you position yourself and even the way you talk. A big part of it is being relentless and not taking ‘No,’ for an answer. To me, when somebody says, ‘No,’ I always think of it as, ‘No, not right now.’ https://capitalbenchmarkpartners.com bestselfatlanta.com

1019_026-037_Women Entrepreneurs.indd 27

BEST SELF ATLANTA

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

27

9/24/19 1:26 PM

This business owner has been breaking barriers for women in the construction industry for more than four decades.

Judy Mozen Having been in the business world for 43 years, Judy Mozen, founder and president of Handcrafted Homes, Inc., has several incredible notches on her tool belt. Her Roswell-based company led the restoration of the home of Asa Candler, the founder of The Coca-Cola Company, and her team has been the recipient of a number of industry awards including National Contractor of the Year wins from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI).

However, Mozen says one of her most rewarding career accomplishments was being the fourth woman ever elected as national president of NARI. “The leadership roles I’ve held in the industry have given me a platform to affect change by promoting more inclusion and diversity,” she explains. Getting involved in professional organizations is one of Mozen’s tools for success, and she advises that those looking to also break glass ceilings do the same. “When I first began in this industry, I was so busy establishing a business that I waited until later in the game to become active in professional associations and local nonprofits.

If I had a do-over, I would have applied to Leadership Atlanta, joined nonprofit boards, and become certified with NARI earlier. Getting involved in the community creates valuable connections with others and keeps you current.”

What do you hope your legacy is?

Photo courtesy of Handcrafted Homes, Inc.

I hope to impact the construction industry on three different levels. First, I have strived to reintroduce the remodeler to the consumer as a trusted professional: someone who is reputable, insured, and certified. Second, I would like my influence nationally to encourage other remodelers to promote diversity in their hiring practices.

Finally, I want women to know that this is

an exciting and rewarding profession in which they have the opportunity to excel. https://handcraftedhomes-inc.com

28

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

1019_026-037_Women Entrepreneurs.indd 28

BEST SELF ATLANTA

bestselfatlanta.com

9/23/19 11:19 AM

This mom of four purchased her first house at 19 and her first investment property at 20.

Photography by Richie Arpino, hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.

Michelle Falconer

As the founder of Bailey & Hunter Realty, Michelle Falconer has learned how to roll with the real estate punches. She bought her first house at 19 and her first investment property at 20. “It was an empty shell,” she recalls. Little did she know, that shell of a home would launch her passion for real estate.

“Twenty-three years later, I’m still doing it,” she says enthusiastically.

Bailey & Hunter Realty specializes in working with investors to help them find and manage investment properties. “It’s the largest investment you’ll probably personally make,” says the mother of four who resides in Southwest Atlanta. “And no matter if you’re buying a house to live in or [to use] to make a profit on, it’s still an investment, and you need to treat it as such.”

Over the years, Falconer has met hardships head on, including the Great Recession. “When the market changed, property management became what everybody needed. There were all of these houses with no owners in them, so we became a hot commodity because we were already in that space. We became the largest minority, female-owned property management firm in the Southeast.” Talk about turning lemons into lemonade.

Why is it important to you to inspire other women entrepreneurs, whether or not they’re going to be in your particular field?

When you’re an entrepreneur, you’re figuring it out as you get to it. So it’s invaluable to learn from other people’s mistakes and to share with them your successes.

What do you hope your kids learn from you as a business owner?

I want them to learn that your

life is a book, and there are different chapters. You can have

long chapters, and you can have short chapters, but you can write whatever you want on your pages and start a new chapter whenever you want. https://baileyandhunter.com bestselfatlanta.com

1019_026-037_Women Entrepreneurs.indd 29

BEST SELF ATLANTA

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

29

9/24/19 1:26 PM

Red tape and language barriers were no match for this go-getter who now owns 34 salons across the Southeast.

Andreia Guilmet

Thirty-four. That’s the number of Brazilian Wax by Andreia salons there are throughout the Southeast. Andreia Guilmet founded her first salon in 2005 after spending five years making house calls and working out of her home. Since then, she has continually added more locations to her empire. Guilmet says her secret sauce (besides her proprietary wax) is hard work and generosity. “Everything that comes to me cannot stop with me; it must flow through and continue to bless others.” As an emigrant from Brazil with less than $500 in her pocket when she arrived, Guilmet had to overcome everything from navigating red tape to learning a third language, but the East Cobb resident says throughout those challenges, one thing remained steadfast—her faith. “I believe all successful entrepreneurs and business owners must have faith. The reality is that there are day-to-day challenges out of our control that present themselves and must be navigated. When one realizes that it is not possible to control every situation, you begin to rely on faith. It is my faith in God that keeps me and my business moving forward.”

What advice do you have for building a team that contributes to a brand’s success?

Everyone has their own set of strengths and weaknesses. You have to be patient and trusting while tapping into everyone’s individual strengths. I respect my team members and give them space to grow, both personally and professionally. Watching them evolve over the years fills my heart and makes me proud.

What do you want fellow entrepreneurs, especially female entrepreneurs, to know about the beauty industry?

The beauty industry is endless; there will always be opportunities for an entrepreneur to enter the market and fill a need. But women have a unique opportunity to cater

30

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

1019_026-037_Women Entrepreneurs.indd 30

BEST SELF ATLANTA

Photography by Richie Arpino.

to a different clientele, that men are unable to cater to. Over the past 10 years, we have seen more and more multimillion-dollar companies being founded, owned, or operated by women. Inspiring the younger generation is very important, and I believe we should all strive to be fruitful and productive in order to leave a legacy behind. https://brazilianwax.com

bestselfatlanta.com

9/30/19 10:42 AM

Carrie Wright There are few things more inspiring than a woman who has successfully been in one field for 20 years, only to make the switch to follow her dreams and create an equally successful endeavor in another. That’s the case for Intown Salt Room’s Carrie Wright. Wright’s first path had her leading marketing initiatives for internet, media and hotel companies, but patience would bring her to her second passion: wellness. “When I started my entrepreneurial journey of opening the first salt room in Atlanta, dry salt therapy, also known as halotherapy, was basically a trend in the spa industry. My first two years of developing the business plan involved a lot of phone calls and internet searches to find research, resources, and vendors to learn more about the operational and business side of dry salt therapy. It was during my research that I saw the opportunity to create a stand-alone salt room offering a private experience for dry salt therapy, as well as an experience for meditation with sound therapy,” she explains. Now, she notes how far she’s come. “The proudest moment so far is celebrating Intown Salt Room’s 1-year anniversary. The first year is the hardest for any new small business, and I’m humbled that I made it through my first year of business.”

Carrie Wright left a successful 20-year career to open a wellness business that was the first of its kind in Atlanta.

Photography by Richie Arpino, hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.

What challenges did you face when starting your business?

Surprisingly, finding the space and ordering the custom Himalayan salt for the décor was easy.

However, as the first stand-alone salt room inside of the perimeter, there were obstacles regarding how to build out the space to incorporate the salt. It was also difficult to find a local contractor and architecture firm willing to take on a first-of-its-kind project in Atlanta.

How do you support other local entrepreneurs, especially women entrepreneurs?

Collaborating with local entrepreneurs, especially women entrepreneurs, is essential for how I’m able to generate awareness and grow my brand. Support has included co-hosting events, creating unique

instructor led-experiences, exclusive product bundles and curated wellness experiences as well as studies with test groups on the benefits of dry salt therapy and meditation with sound therapy. https://intownsaltroom.com

bestselfatlanta.com

1019_026-037_Women Entrepreneurs.indd 31

BEST SELF ATLANTA

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

31

9/24/19 1:27 PM

In the 10 years since Lisa Marshall founded her Alpharetta-based business, Multisport Explosion, a triathlon training program held at facilities around metro Atlanta, she’s watched her high-performance team (the only one of its kind in Georgia) expand not only in size but also in caliber of athletes. In fact, the team finished the 2019 season with a No. 3 national ranking led by teens who have been with Marshall since the beginning. “The athletes that performed so well all season have been with us since we started this program in 2010. They were 7 to 9 years old.

They bought into our philosophy and have become some of the top youth and junior triathletes in the country,” Marshall explains. The road to success hasn’t always been easy, especially in a male-dominated industry. “As a strong-minded and passionate female, I’m often referred to as ‘aggressive’ or ‘difficult.’ All the while, if a strong-minded and passionate male coach was to say, act or behave in the same manner, he’d be called a ‘powerful’ and ‘passionate’ coach. It’s a double standard for women coaching any sport at a high level.” Despite the challenges, Marshall says she hopes to inspire her athletes to be diligent and determined. “I want them to learn that hard work does pay off. If they put in the time and effort, they will see the results, and I want them to apply this to everything they do— from sports, school, relationships, and beyond.”

How do you decompress?

I work out. I still train by swimming, biking, running and lifting weights like I have for 25 years when I started participating in triathlons. I just don’t compete anymore.

I have made the switch from being a competitive athlete to being a motivated coach. I have to

stay in shape to keep up with these young athletes! I also like to escape to the beach or lake just to be near water and be still. https://teamexplosion.org

32

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

1019_026-037_Women Entrepreneurs.indd 32

BEST SELF ATLANTA

Photography by Krys Alex Photography LLC, hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.

Lisa Marshall

Thanks to her outstanding coaching abilities, Lisa Marshall’s high-performance triathlon team finished the 2019 season with a No. 3 national ranking.

bestselfatlanta.com

9/23/19 11:20 AM

Glenett Hannah A former soldier in the U.S. Army and participant in the Veteran Women Igniting the Spirit of Entrepreneurship (V-WISE) Atlanta program, Glenett Hannah says her first love is giving back to veterans.

She is a licensed clinical social worker with a degree from Columbia University, and she found that she connected to veterans and their families in a way that others didn’t. “A lot of people do not understand veterans and all that they go through, and a lot of people do not even understand what the families go through.

I knew that was my niche,” she explains. Along with the tools, connections and support she received from V-WISE Atlanta, the Stone Mountain local got the final push she needed to begin her business when doctors found a blood clot in her lung in 2015, and then again in 2017. “I thought that was God saying, ‘This is it. This is your path to becoming your own boss.’” Since launching Hannah Innovative Solutions, a consulting firm providing mental health counseling, administrative support, and training development, two years ago, Hannah has specialized in holistic counseling for veterans and their families as they reintegrate back into civilian life from the military. Through methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy, Hannah is able to provide a safe space for her clients to be open about their issues. “One of my most rewarding moments was when a 70-year-old Vietnam veteran was able to release the trauma, guilt, and tormenting thoughts and nightmares he had from serving. After a few sessions, the veteran broke down and said, ‘Why did I live when so many of my friends died in front of me?’ It choked me up to see how the darkness of war had consumed him and how being able to release the past allowed some sunshine to enter back into his life. I can’t even imagine the trauma he carried all those years,” Hannah says. “This is why I do what I do for veterans and their families.”

Utilizing her military experience, Glenett Hannah provides life-changing counseling for veterans and their families.

What were some of the barriers you faced when launching Hannah Innovative Solutions?

I had no clue what it would take to start a business—from the kind of entity it would be to the accounting and legal advice I needed, there was so much to learn. Not to mention, the crucial questions I needed to ask myself such as, ‘Who needs my

services and why? What makes me different from all the other counseling services out there?’

And most of all, ‘Is this really something I want to do? Am I doing this for me?’ https://hanahis.com bestselfatlanta.com

1019_026-037_Women Entrepreneurs.indd 33

BEST SELF ATLANTA

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

33

9/24/19 1:27 PM

This culinary wizard’s company hosts everything from private events to rentals for television and movie production staff.

Cyndi Sterne You could say Cyndi Sterne’s career has been peppered with perseverance. Through name, location, and concept changes, Sterne has managed to forge ahead.

“Every business has challenges, some within our control, such as customer service, quality, and location, and some we can’t control like the economy, competition, and trends,” she explains. “You can’t let the obstacles overcome you. You have to keep going and find different ways to make your business succeed.” And succeed it has.

Sterne’s company, Yes, Chef! Culinary Events (formally named Hal’s Kitchen) located in the Belle Isle Square in Sandy Springs, hosts everything from corporate team-building outings and private events, to rentals for television and movie production staff, and visiting chefs. She credits her success to her supportive spouse and children, her employees and her desire to make each customer’s experience exceptional. However, she also notes that maintaining a work-life balance has been a bit of a learning curve that she’s only recently mastered. “It’s a challenge to remind myself to work ‘on’ the business instead of ‘in’ the business. A lot of my time is actually spent hosting the events, teaching classes and working with vendors. I have to remind myself to set aside time every day to make sure that I am continuing to grow the business. Also, setting boundaries. About four years into the business,

I stopped answering the phone after 5:30. As Yes, Chef! Culinary Events has boomed, it has been important to set aside time to focus solely on my family.”

Who is your mentor or entrepreneurial role model?

Sara Blakely is amazing! I admire that she talks about her fears, her family, and is supportive of other female artists and businesses owners.

How do you decompress?

Spin, baby, spin! I love the spin classes at Life Time Athletic, Sandy Springs. I’ve reconnected with old friends, made new friends, and a little bonus is that it has been a great place to network and promote Yes, Chef! Culinary Events. The best part, though, is an hour of time just for me. www.yeschefatlanta.com

34

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

1019_026-037_Women Entrepreneurs.indd 34

BEST SELF ATLANTA

bestselfatlanta.com

9/24/19 3:07 PM

Peiru Kim

Peiru Kim turned an everyday nail salon into a thriving beauty destination with multiple locations.

Peiru Kim’s career launched like most young adults. She was a Georgia Tech grad and employed by a national real estate developer for over a decade. However, when the market took a turn for the worst, Kim found herself doing some soul searching. “I thought long and hard on what to do with the next chapter of my life.

I have always dreamed of owning my own business and have always been drawn to the beauty industry since I was a little girl. With a young baby in tow, I knew I wanted to start my own business and decided to pursue my dream.” The Buckhead resident purchased the Atlanta Sugarcoat business in 2010 and launched her second career. “I made a commitment to create the ultimate nail salon.

I envisioned myself as a customer and asked what I would want my beauty destination to look like. I enrolled in nail and

esthetics school to learn the ins and outs of the beauty industry,” Kim says. Today,

nearly 6,000 women and men flock to her five Sugarcoat locations monthly for a luxurious nail care experience. Kim isn’t slowing down anytime soon either, she plans to open two more salons in 2020.

Photo courtesy of CityBox Media, photography by Maryan Aiken.

Who is your mentor or entrepreneurial role model?

The entrepreneur that I look up to the most is Sonny Kahn of Crescent Heights. He was the chairman of the real estate development firm that I worked for. He emigrated from Israel and worked as a taxi driver and mechanic before getting into real estate development. Meeting him, working for his company, and learning of his life story at the beginning of my career really impacted me and made me a believer that through faith, hard work, and persistence, anything is possible. He is a great man of faith, who is full of kindness and love and gives endlessly to his employees and the community. https://www.sugarcoatbeauty.com

bestselfatlanta.com

1019_026-037_Women Entrepreneurs.indd 35

BEST SELF ATLANTA

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

35

9/24/19 3:07 PM

NEW

INSTITUT’ DERMED SPA

The Bio-Derm Oxygen Facial Experience the ultimate transformational facial treatment featuring OXYGESKIN®

This active ingredient derived from the Nasturtium Flower limits the appearance of free radicals. OXYGESKIN® provides a true gust of oxygen, directly to the epidermal layers restoring and fortifying the skin for toning, tightening and clarifying all skin types even sensitive skin.

Launch Price: $125 (Value $215) SCHEDULE TODAY,

Call 404.261.5199

Offer valid until November 30th, 2019. Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. One per client, please.

Institut’ DERMed Spa & Laser Center 3726 Roswell Rd, Atlanta, GA 30342

1019_026-037_Women Entrepreneurs.indd 36

n

404.261.5199

n

idermed.com

n

#dermed

9/24/19 10:01 AM

In the hands of Kim Wilson, a vegetable stand was transformed into a store that supports over 20 womenowned-andcreated businesses.

Kim Wilson Walking through her sprawling Buckhead store, which began as a vegetable stand, you’re likely to find Kim Wilson stocking the latest treats from area bakers or putting together thoughtful gift baskets with bubble baths and mugs for local teachers. She often has a smile on her face, bounding from one customer to the next. But it hasn’t always been as easy as Wilson makes it look. “Starting a business is such work. I had to look past the daily obstacles and be persistent to reach my goals. It’s taken me 10-plus years to build my business—everything from my customer base to relationships with my vendors, it all takes time and perseverance,” she says. Knowing how much work goes into starting a business, Wilson is doing her part to pass it on. “We provide female entrepreneurs a platform to develop and showcase their brands. We currently support over 20 women-owned-and-created businesses that sell products at Lucy’s Market. I regularly meet with new vendors who want to test packaging and receive feedback from customers and who are looking to expand a product line. I want to support other women the way that I was supported when my business was beginning.”

Photo courtesy of Lucy’s Market.

What are some of the greatest business obstacles you had to overcome?

One of my most memorable challenges was balancing a job that required me to be up and out of the house before dawn. I would meet farmers at the market before my children woke up and then have them sit between crates of fresh produce as I drove them to school.

Another obstacle was trusting that success would come from all of my hard work. I had to trust my instincts when other people thought I was crazy. https://lucysmarket.com

bestselfatlanta.com

1019_026-037_Women Entrepreneurs.indd 37

BEST SELF ATLANTA

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

37

9/24/19 1:27 PM

38

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

1019_038-041_Chef Pano.indd 38

BEST SELF ATLANTA

bestselfatlanta.com

9/24/19 1:37 PM

Photography by (left) Sara Hanna Photography. Photo courtesy of (top) Pano I. Karatassos.

Catch the Wave Chef Pano I. Karatassos

dazzles the Atlanta Best Media team at his Buckhead restaurant, Kyma

By Katherine Sauceda

Chef Pano I. Karatassos has loved to cook for as long as he can remember.

The first dish he ever made with pride was a quadruple-stacked peanut butter and jelly sandwich for his brother, Niko, at age 4. When their mother woke up, the kitchen was a mess and the boys were covered with the sticky spreads. As a child, Karatassos loved watching Yiayia (“grandmother” in Greek) prepare traditional Grecian dishes like Youvetsi, an orzo pasta with braised lamb shanks. In the ’80s and ’90s, Karatassos witnessed his father, Pano Karatassos, take the Atlanta culinary scene by storm and create the Buckhead Life Restaurant Group, which includes notable eateries such as Chops Lobster Bar and Atlanta Fish Market.

bestselfatlanta.com

1019_038-041_Chef Pano.indd 39

BEST SELF ATLANTA

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

39

9/24/19 4:30 PM

Karatassos’ career blossomed with formal chef training from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York in 1996. Under the tutelage of influential chefs, like Thomas Keller of The French Laundry (a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star restaurant), Karatassos honed his skills in the kitchen. His path came full circle in 2001 when he returned to his fine dining roots in Atlanta to open Kyma, the Hellenic word for “wave.”

The contemporary Greek restaurant specializes in mezes, meaning appetizers, and is meant to showcase the beautiful foods of Greece in a high-end setting mimicking the color scheme associated with swoon-worthy islands like Santorini. The Atlanta Best Media team recently had the pleasure of experiencing Karatassos’ culinary creations first hand.

During our 10-course tasting, restaurant mainstays prepared with Karatassos’ new line of extra-virgin olive oil and olives graced our table, including the Grilled Octopus and whole fish Lavraki. The journey began with roasted oysters topped with a

CHEF PANO I. KARATASSOS WITH SOME OF THE ATLANTA BEST MEDIA TEAM. (BACK ROW, L TO R): RICHIE ARPINO, CHEF PANO I. KARATASSOS, SHERRI ADAIR, KATHERINE SAUCEDA (FRONT ROW, L TO R): WYNDI KAPPES, PATTI STEPHENS, ALEX MCCRAY

The Grilled Octopus was a wonderfully delicious surprise.

—Wyndi Kappes

The whole fish Lavraki was fantastic.

It was so moist and flaky, and I always love lemon and capers.

—Patti Stephens 40

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

1019_038-041_Chef Pano.indd 40

BEST SELF ATLANTA

bestselfatlanta.com

9/24/19 4:30 PM

The Lamb Pie was absolutely delish! I loved the crispy crust with the creamy inside.

—Sherri Adair Champagne emulsion and caviar, paired to perfection with a glass of Amalia Brut sparkling wine with peach and pear notes.

Photography by (left-hand page bottom left) Richie Arpino; (left-hand page bottom right) Sara Hanna Photography; (right-hand page) Francesco Tonelli. Photo courtesy of (left-hand page top right) Richie Arpino.

The Calamari Pasta had us all whipping out our phones because we could not miss this Instagram-worthy plate. Thin-sliced calamari resembling pasta and sautéed vegetables beautifully sat in a ceramic bowl painted with a saffron yogurt spread on the inside. Though it looked like a work of art, we quickly dug in while learning that as one scoops the “pasta” out of the bowl, you should run the spoon along the inside of the bowl to capture the smooth yogurt coating the dish.

No meal at Kyma would be complete without Karatassos’ Lamb Pie. The moment you take a bite of the coiled phyllo pie stuffed with lamb on top of a thick spiral of Greek yogurt, it is easy to conclude how this dish led to Karatassos’ victory against Bobby Flay on the Food Network’s hit show, “Beat Bobby Flay” this past August.

The Greek salad was a mouthwatering serving of fresh vegetables, topped with equally fresh cheese.

—Katherine Sauceda

Our culinary journey drew to a close with the Blueberry Galo pastry accompanied by a dollop of mahlepi ice cream. Per Karatassos’ recommendation, it was paired with a dessert wine made with the unique Malagouzia grape, which was once nearly extinct, for extra sweetness.

You might not be fortunate enough to have this executive chef’s masterpieces on your table every night, but you can do your best to imitate them. Karatassos put his passion to paper with “Modern Greek Cooking,” his inaugural cookbook dedicated to authentic, approachable meals.

But if you don’t feel like whipping up a recipe at home, simply make a reservation at Kyma and Karatassos will be happy to do the cooking for you.

Details: 3085 Piedmont Rd., Atlanta; www.buckheadrestaurants.com/restaurant/kyma, www.chefpano.com bestselfatlanta.com

1019_038-041_Chef Pano.indd 41

The Calamari Pasta was pleasing to the eye and the palate!

I truly enjoyed it.

—Alex McCray

BEST SELF ATLANTA

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

41

9/24/19 3:09 PM

Join us for our Casino Night Fundraiser

Emcee Kaedy Kiely, 97.1 The River Afternoon Drive Host Chair Marie Hannon Presented by

Royal Flush Sponsor

Full House Sponsor

Media Sponsor

October 25, 2019 7 pm to 10 pm Cherokee Town Club

Tickets are $150 and are sold in advance only.

For more information and to purchase tickets, go to www.beverlyfamilyfoundation.org Benefiting The Eric R. Beverly Family Foundation, a Georgia 501(c)3 organization dedicated to supporting lower income breast cancer patients in metro Atlanta by removing financial barriers to beginning and successfully completing their treatment.

1019_042-047_Breast Cancer.indd 42 Beverly Family Foundation Ad-2019-BSM-1.indd 1

9/24/19 10:03 AM 9/9/19 11:14 PM

11:14 PM

MAKING SENSE OF

Metastatic Breast Cancer Patients, doctors, and specialists talk treatments, support, and staying positive

Photo courtesy of Cancer Treatment Centers of AmericaÂŽ, Atlanta, photography by Chris Lake.

By Karon Warren

Jennifer Thigpen (right), a stage 2 breast cancer survivor, reviews her treatment plan.

G

iven the massive amount of attention breast cancer receives, most people have a basic concept of the disease. But many may not know the difference between breast cancer and metastatic breast cancer.

While there are similarities, it’s those differences that deserve their own fair share of attention.

bestselfatlanta.com

1019_042-047_Breast Cancer.indd 43

BEST SELF ATLANTA

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

43

9/24/19 1:39 PM

The Basics In the simplest of terms, metastatic breast cancer is cancer that has spread beyond the breast. “The most

common places for breast cancer to spread are to the liver, lungs and bones,” says

Amelia Zelnak, MD, MSc, medical oncologist at Atlanta Cancer Care at Northside Hospital Cancer Institute.

Essentially, the cancer cells migrate beyond the breast cancer into the bloodstream, traveling to other areas of the body. “These cells would have escaped prior to detection of and surgery for the early stage cancer, but they are so small that they cannot be detected,” Dr. Zelnak says.

“If these cancer cells are able to survive while circulating through the body, they can then begin to grow in other places such as the liver, lungs and bones.”

A number of factors contribute to this high rate of diagnosis. For instance, some studies show there are lower rates of African-American women getting screened via mammograms combined with lower rates of following up on those screenings, Dr. Hansra says.

“Some studies show they also are less likely to receive chemotherapy after surgery,” he says. This could be due to

44

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

1019_042-047_Breast Cancer.indd 44

BEST SELF ATLANTA

INVASIVE

inadequate health insurance and/or the lack of access to healthcare. Studies are ongoing.

Facing Everyday Life You would think breast cancer patients who receive a MBC diagnosis would know what to expect given they have been diagnosed with breast cancer before.

However, that’s not always the case. For Liz McLaughlin of Cumming, she thought she had beat breast cancer after her initial diagnosis in June 2009.

“I thought I had licked it because it was eight years later,” she says.

“I’m a very positive person, so I was shocked.”

Now 62 years old, McLaughlin, who recently spoke at the Greater Atlanta Metastatic Breast Cancer Conference

®

a large number of MBC diagnoses are found in African-American women, who are 40% more likely to die of breast cancer than Caucasian women.

Unfortunately,

STAGE 4

Diagram courtesy of National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc .

Metastatic breast cancer (MBC) is diagnosed as an advanced cancer, known as stage 4. As such, very few initial breast cancer diagnoses are MBC. In fact, according to Damien Hansra, MD, medical oncologist with Cancer Treatment Centers of America®, Atlanta, and member of its Breast Cancer Center, says, based on population studies, of the 250,000 breast cancer cases diagnosed each year, just 6% of those cases present with stage 4, or MBC. Therefore, the majority of MBC cases are diagnosed following an initial early-stage breast cancer diagnosis.

bestselfatlanta.com

9/24/19 1:39 PM

hosted by Susan G. Komen Greater Atlanta in May, was diagnosed with MBC on her 60th birthday. “They did not prepare me for the fact that it could spread,” she says. Her scans showed she had six new tumors, and her treatment plan included chemotherapy and letrozole hormone therapy.

Right now, the cancer is not growing, but it’s not dissipating either.

As such, it’s always present.

“You think about it all the time,” McLaughlin says. “There are so many things around you that remind you of it.” These include monthly blood work, regular scans, and everyday life, such as trying to avoid contracting an infection due to low white blood cell counts.

Imagine the effects of living with MBC as a young parent. That’s exactly the life Rebekah Howerton of Roswell leads. The 36-year-old mother of a 12-year-old son was originally diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer at age 31. She underwent surgery and was declared cancer-free. Within six months, though, the cancer was back and it had spread.

Photo courtesy of Karen Burpo and Thomas Smith.

®

Diagram courtesy of National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc .

“I didn’t understand what metastatic breast cancer was,” Howerton says.

“We [breast cancer patients] are not educated on what that means. It took a year to accept the diagnosis.”

Support When You Need It

Treatment for metastatic breast cancer goes far beyond the medical regimen prescribed by your doctor. In fact, it’s imperative you address your physical, mental and spiritual health to complement your medical treatments.

TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation offers a number of services and programs to help you get the full-body care you need.

For instance, TurningPoint offers a monthly support group for metastatic breast cancer patients who may find it difficult to talk with friends or loved ones about their medical journey. “This group allows individuals living with breast cancer to talk with people who are going through a similar journey,” says Rebecca Cowens-Alvarado, MPH, executive director at TurningPoint.

“The Coffee & Conversation support group is facilitated by a licensed clinical socialworker with expertise in helping cancer patients cope with their experience.” And for those who can’t get away to attend an in-person meeting, attendees can call in to participate in the support group.

She’s undergone eight surgeries, Metastatic breast cancer patients including a dual suffering from treatment side craniotomy this effects also may find programs to summer, 19 rounds help alleviate those setbacks. “If of radiation, and you are experiencing side effects TURNINGPOINT PHYSICAL THERAPIST CARRIE KOZEL EXPLAINS EXERCISES AND STRETCHES THAT CAN daily treatment BE HELPFUL IN ADDRESSING THE SIDE EFFECTS OF BREAST CANCER AND ITS TREATMENT, INCLUDING of treatment such as neuropathy LIMITED RANGE OF ARM MOTION. drugs. “Ongoing (numbness or tingling in your treatments for MBC fingertips or toes), lymphedema, often require time off from work and navigating the complex world of fatigue, issues with weight gain or loss, Social Security Disability Insurance. There’s quite a buzz in the breast cancer emotional distress, pain or other symptoms, community about H.R. 2178, a bill proposing to eliminate the SSDI automatic TurningPoint can help you,” says Cowens-Alvarado. “We offer specialized six- to 12-month-plus waiting period to start receiving benefits,” Howerton says. physical therapy, massage therapy, tailored “I’ve been able to use my paid vacation time to transition back to work after exercise programs, nutritional counseling, being on short-term disability, but this is still very challenging for MBC patients education and emotional support.” In fact, to navigate. Most MBC patients I know are unable to work and I consider TurningPoint offers free massages to its myself lucky to have a career to go back to,” she adds. metastatic patients throughout the year.

None of these battles stop Howerton from living her life. “Your treatment is To find out more about these and other indefinite,” Howerton says. “It’s living with it.” And that’s what she does. She complimentary and low-cost services, visit continues to work at her job in public relations, but she is also focused on www.myturningpoint.org.

bestselfatlanta.com

1019_042-047_Breast Cancer.indd 45

BEST SELF ATLANTA

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

45

9/24/19 1:39 PM

having experiences and building traditions with her son.

“He’s taught me a lot,” Howerton says. “He builds me up.

We’re this dynamic duo. A lot of that is my driving force to keep going. He keeps me focused.”

Today’s Treatments When treating MBC, surgery can be a first step, but ongoing treatment involves a variety of options usually dictated by the type of breast cancer. Clinical trials also play a role in treatment, as ongoing research reveals more information about breast cancer. “There are new clinical trials adding molecular therapies,” Dr. Hansra says. “We’re examining patients’ tumors to find a weak link in the armor to attack it.”

Of course, palliative and supportive care are vital in MBC treatment, too. “It’s extremely important because

you’re living with uncertainty,” says Kimberly Curseen, director of outpatient supportive care at Emory Healthcare.

“How you process that is important to how you do. It’s really difficult to live fully in a state of fear.”

Palliative and supportive care includes support groups, financial and estate planning, access to social workers, counseling, nutritional guidance, physical therapy and more. “Managing MBC affects all the areas of your life including physical, emotional, social, professional and spiritual,” says Karen Whitehead, MS, LCSW, CCH, psychotherapist at Karen Whitehead Counseling who also works with TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation.

“Alongside your medical team, it can be beneficial to talk with others who can help you adjust and thrive in all areas of your life. Support groups and individual counseling are available to help you get back to living your life.”

Sources Cancer Treatment Centers of America®, Atlanta

https://cancercenter.com/locations/atlanta Emory Healthcare, https://emoryhealthcare.org Karen Whitehead Counseling

Northside Hospital Cancer Institute

https://northside.com/atlanta-cancer-center TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation

www.myturningpoint.org

https://karenwhiteheadcounseling.com

CARTER BARNES Specializing in Hair Color, Cuts, Styling and Skin Care.

Come visit our beautiful salon in the trendy West Village of Buckhead.

3220 Paces Ferry Place - 404.848.0047 www.carterbarnes.com

“Like” us on Facebook 46

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

1019_042-047_Breast Cancer.indd 46

BEST SELF ATLANTA

bestselfatlanta.com

9/24/19 1:39 PM

*ACTUAL PATIENT

Breast Augmentation

Facelift

Breast Lift

Eyelid Surgery

Tummy Tuck

Labiaplasty

Liposuction

Hair Restoration

Male Breast Reduction

ROBERT A. COLGROVE, JR. M.D. Board Certified - Plastic Surgeon 25 Years of Experience

770.955.9000 | www.colgrove.com

Come to Stability to experience the best: • Pilates • Physical Therapy • Dry Needling • Athletic Conditioning • Vestibular Rehab 5975 Roswell Road, Suite C-333, Atlanta, GA 30328 Phone: 404.303.9153 www.stabilityatlanta.com bestselfatlanta.com

1019_042-047_Breast Cancer.indd 47

BEST SELF ATLANTA

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

47

9/23/19 11:48 AM

Chronic Shoulder Pain?

Tendonitis? Sprain/Strain?

Solution: Bio-Regenerative Injection Therapy Because the shoulder has the greatest range of motion of any joint in the body, it must balance strength, flexibility and stability. This balance can be maintained through exercises aimed at stretching and strengthening the supporting structures to avoid pain and injuries during specific activities.

Problems are generally due to overuse, which weakens and destabilizes the rotator cuff. About 20% of sports injuries involve the shoulder.

So what to do? Enter Bio-Sclerotic Proliferation Injection Therapy!

The treatment causes the proliferation (growth, formation) of new ligament tissue in the areas where it has become weak.

A biological (not toxic, non steroidal) solution is used, which is injected in the suspect area. This causes a localized inflammation in these weak areas which then increases the blood supply and flow of nutrients and stimulates the tissue to repair itself including increased cytokine production, which are the building blocks for cartilage and other connective tissue.

We are in-network.

Our Treatments Are Covered by

Medicare • Blue Cross • Aetna • Cigna United • Humana • Coventry • Great West and most others.

Regenerative & Physical Medicine 6315-B Spalding Dr. Norcross, GA 30092 Tel: 770-416-9995

www.TotalHealthMed.com CALL TODAY FOR APPOINTMENT

1019_048-059_PIH.indd 48

9/24/19 3:56 PM

2019 Partners in Health

2019 LEARN FROM ATLANTA’S TOP HEALTHCARE EXPERTS

Partners In Health

diagnostics

Therapy

heart burn sleep dental health sexual health

bestselfatlanta.com

1019_048-059_PIH.indd 49

BEST SELF ATLANTA

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

49

9/24/19 3:56 PM

2019 Partners in Health

Improving Your Golf Swing with Physical Therapy Distance. Accuracy. Consistency.

Those are goals that every golfer strives to achieve, yet so often, seem unattainable.

The average golfer is inundated with advertisements and commercials for new swing aids that guarantee improved distance, accuracy, and consistency. But all too often, these products collect dust in a golfer’s closet.

Why? Because it’s neither the club that makes the movements nor the swing aid that controls the club. It’s the human body that performs the work.

In an average 18-hole round of golf, a player using a cart may walk 1.5 to 2.5 miles and burn 800 calories; a player walking all 18 holes may cover 5 to 6 miles and burn 1,400 calories (Golf Digest, 2012).

Couple this with swinging a golf club 300 or more times (practice swings included) at an amateur’s average speed of 94 mph, and the game can take a toll on the body.

The golf swing, lasting approximately a half-second, results from 3D, sequential movements of the body. If timing is off, even by a fraction of a second, it can mean the difference between birdie and bogey.

Through 3D analysis of the golf swing, physical therapists can identify three areas of kinematic sequencing that most affect the swing: hips/ pelvis, spine/thorax, and shoulders/arms (Greg A. Rose, 2013). Just one bodily restriction or dysfunction along this kinetic chain can cause major swing flaws that will limit distance, accuracy, and consistency.

The problem could be related to mobility (movement of the joints), strength, flexibility, coordination or some combination of the four. To discover the underlying physical restriction that plagues their swings, golfers often seek the help of physical therapists, specifically ones who are certified golf fitness professionals.

An appointment with one of BenchMark’s skilled physical therapists will include a head-to-toe evaluation to identify weaknesses and to design a customized exercise program to fit that golfer’s needs.

Here are some examples of what that program can include: • Strengthening exercises to increase power and endurance.

• Dynamic strengthening and agility exercises to improve explosive power.

• Flexibility and mobility exercises to enhance accuracy and consistency.

• Cardiovascular exercises to increase endurance for a four- to five-hour round of golf.

Consider a golfer who can’t rotate his/her hips inward (hip internal rotation). This will cause increased slide or sway (Greg A. Rose, 2012), causing the golfer to fade the golf ball (move left to right for a right-handed golfer), losing accuracy and distance. A physical therapist may prescribe hip mobility exercises to promote increased range of motion and rotational strengthening/ coordination exercises to increase kinematic sequencing, swing speed and backswing length.

If you are looking to better your golf game, we’re happy to help get you on the path to your best golf swing.

BenchMark Physical Therapy is a family of physical therapists, occupational therapists, and hand therapists committed to inspiring and empowering people to reach their full potential. Its providers know that connecting with patients on a personal level helps to build trust. This trust is crucial in allowing patients and therapists to work together to make the best use of advanced certifications and refined techniques. A focus on proven methods and a hands-on approach help the BenchMark team achieve the goals of the patient in a safe and effective manner.

BenchMark Physical Therapy • www.benchmarkpt.com • 1-844-264-5307 50

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

1019_048-059_PIH.indd 50

BEST SELF ATLANTA

bestselfatlanta.com

9/24/19 3:56 PM

2019 Partners in Health Losing Weight: Beyond Diet and Exercise!

By Michael D. Williams, MD, FACS & Brendon Curtis, MD

H

ave you been monitoring what you eat and how much you eat, along with exercising regularly but don’t seem to be losing any weight? Or, have you gotten really motivated and committed to becoming healthy, made some lifestyle changes, which resulted in weight loss but then struggled to maintain your new low weight?

That’s because weight loss and maintenance are much more complex than simply dieting and exercising. There are multiple hormonal, physiological and environmental factors that determine weight loss.

Researchers have discovered the “set point” concept. There is information to suggest that the body tries to maintain a particular weight depending on the genetic, biological, and environmental factors it’s exposed to. Somewhat like the way a thermostat sustains the temperature of your home, the body seems to maintain a particular weight range. Each time you go on a diet or significantly reduce daily caloric intake, the body goes into reserve or “starvation mode” in order to conserve energy and maintain weight. What makes it even worse is whilst reducing caloric intake, many people simultaneously start aggressive exercise programs, which naturally increases one’s daily energy requirements. Dieting and exercise collectively create a negative energy balance.

This creates the desired effect of driving the body to burn reserve energy, resulting in weight loss.

However, in keeping with the set point theory, physiological mechanisms are then activated to conserve energy and return the body system back to its previous set point weight. Consequently, patients may experience increased hunger, slowing down of the basal metabolic rate, fatigue and lack of energy. These biological, counteractive mechanisms can easily discourage patients and drive one back to old habits and subsequent weight regain.

Adopting a diet low in processed foods, carbohydrates in particular, and high in fiber, vegetables, fruits, whole nuts, and lean meats, may

help to establish a lower set point and assist in weight loss and maintenance. Recommendations from the American Heart Association of getting at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity a week also help to keep a lower set point. Other lifestyle changes, such as stress management, getting six to eight hours of restful sleep per night, and avoiding late-night meals and snacks, may also be beneficial in reducing weight set point.

Finally, weight loss surgery activates numerous hormonal and physiological pathways that help to reduce and maintain weight loss. Numerous research studies have shown that bariatric surgery, such as the sleeve gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, currently are the best-known mechanisms in producing and maintaining a lower set point, resulting in a more rapid and sustained weight loss.

research, including manipulation of hormones, bacterial gut flora, new endoscopic devices, and medicines that enhance energy expenditure and set point management. We do this to continue offering patients excellent care using both surgical and nonsurgical options.

At Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Surgery Institute, we are committed to the treatment of being overweight and continue to keep up with current

Please give us a call to discuss this topic further and to see if you are a candidate for weight loss surgery.

Laparoscopic & Endoscopic Surgery Institute • www.bariatricsmd.com • (770) 500-3660

bestselfatlanta.com

1019_048-059_PIH.indd 51

BEST SELF ATLANTA

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

51

9/24/19 3:56 PM

2019 Partners in Health Back Pain Basics

What to Do and When to Worry

By Jacob A. Strong, MD

If

you have ever experienced lower back pain, you are not alone. Studies indicate that 60 to 90 percent of the population has experienced it at least once in their lives. The good news is that 50 percent of back pain will resolve in one to two weeks, and 90 percent will resolve in six to 12 weeks. Now the question becomes when and when not to seek treatment for your back pain.

Acute or New Onset of Lower Back Pain You are working in the yard and feel a “pull.” Sound familiar? This may be due to a simple sprain/strain or to problems with structures in the spine. Apply ice during the first 48 to 72 hours. Then follow with heat therapy to reduce muscle spasms, stiffness and injury.

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications and pain relievers can also be used.

Activity People often ask, “How active should I be with back pain?”

It’s tempting to lie on the couch all day. However, studies show that bed rest for more than two days actually increases recovery time for back pain. Consult your physician to determine your activity level.

Physical Therapy Tissue injury can cause muscles in the back and neck to spasm. Physical therapists can provide you with an individualized treatment program with exercises specific for your area of pain and symptoms.

Massage A massage therapist can relax tense back muscles and increase blood circulation to the back, which accelerates healing. Massages also release endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers.

Smoking and Obesity Back pain is more common in individuals who are smokers and/or overweight. Extra weight strains the muscles while smoking robs the spine of oxygen and nutrients. Your physician can assist you with starting a diet and exercise program in addition to a smoking cessation program.

Back Pain Red Flags If you have one or more of these symptoms, you may have a serious issue with your back and should seek medical assistance. ¨ You are younger than 20 or older than 55 and experiencing back pain for the first time ¨ The pain follows a traumatic or violent injury, such as a car accident ¨ You experience back pain at night ¨ Your back pain is constant and getting worse ¨ Your back pain is in the upper part of the spine ¨ You presently have cancer or have had it in the past ¨ You are on corticosteroids ¨ You use illegal drugs or are infected with HIV ¨ You generally feel unwell, have back pain and are feverish ¨ You are experiencing back pain and have had a significant weight loss ¨ You have back pain and continue to have great difficulty bending forward ¨ You are experiencing numbness, loss of function in your legs, loss of bowel or bladder function ¨ You have developed an obvious structural deformity of your spine ¨ Debilitating back pain that is not reducing after four to six weeks

Summary If you experience any of the “red flag” symptoms, persistent back pain, or just have questions about your back and how to keep it healthy, contact your healthcare provider.

Resurgens Spine Center • Non-surgical & Surgical Spine Care • 24 Convenient Atlanta Locations • www.resurgensspine.com 52

1019_048-059_PIH.indd 52

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

BEST SELF ATLANTA

bestselfatlanta.com

9/24/19 3:56 PM

MORE DOCTORS, MORE ACCESS, MORE CARE The most trusted Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation physicians and Orthopaedic spine surgeons in Georgia

Thank You Atlanta for Voting Us Best Spine Care Practice Three Years in a Row! • 24 CONVENIENT ATLANTA LOCATIONS • NON-SURGICAL & SURGICAL SPINE CARE • SPECIALIZED SPINE REHABILITATION •

1019_048-059_PIH.indd 53

RESURGENSSPINE.COM 9/24/19 3:56 PM

From Prevention to Attention At Kimche & Presley Cosmetic & Sports Dentistry, Comprehensive Care is our primary commitment to each patient. We focus on the entire person, not simply the mouth, and aim to make you feel great when you smile.

Porcelain Veneers and EMAX Crowns

2019 partners in health

Can Using a Tongue Scraper Help with Bad Breath?

Tongue scrapers can be found at most pharmacies. This tool can help reduce bad breath when used correctly. The ideal technique is to scrape the tongue from back to front, loosening up the bacteria and debris left behind after eating.

If you have a coated tongue—a buildup of bacteria and debris—you will benefit from a tongue scraper. A coated tongue can be caused by cigarettes, dry mouth, or as a side effect of medication.

Even though scraping the tongue can reduce bad breath, other techniques include:

Teeth Whitening Invisalign™

• Brushing your teeth at least twice a day

Dental Implants Periodontal Disease Therapy Botox™ & Juvederm™

• Using mouthwash • Preventing dry mouth by staying hydrated • Seeing your dentist at least twice a year

www.kimchepresley.com

• Using dental floss at least once per day

www.facebook.com/KPDentistry www.twitter.com/KimcheDentistry

404-262-0806

2921 Piedmont Rd NE Suite E Atlanta , GA 30305 54

1019_048-059_PIH.indd 54

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

BEST SELF ATLANTA

Daryl R. Kimche, D.D.S. & Luke K. Presley, D.M.D.

Kimche & Presley Cosmetic & Sports Dentistry www.kimchepresley.com bestselfatlanta.com

9/24/19 3:56 PM

2019 Partners in Health What Women Can Do for Men’s Health

By Scott D. Miller, MD

It is well established that women are more health conscious than men. They tend to eat healthier, pamper their skin, floss their teeth daily, and go to the doctor regularly. Men, on the other hand, manage to put off these annual wellness visits. In fact, men are also more likely than women to make unhealthy choices such as smoking, excessive drinking, and aggressive driving. So how can women move the needle?

I would imagine that most women turn the page when they see an article about men’s health. Whether it’s a husband, father, brother, or good friend, share these health tips with your loved ones. In fact, most of these articles also contain helpful advice for women.

Of course, the best mentors teach by example. As already mentioned, this is where women have a head start.

However, men can be oblivious to those cues. Nevertheless, it is much easier to make healthy decisions when the people around you make the same choices.

Repeatedly making these favorable choices—particularly for shared activities—will heighten the awareness of healthy lifestyle decisions.

So here is your essential “can-do” list for the men in your life:

Look for my article on “A Men’s Guide to a Healthy Winter” in the next issue.

• Stick to the calendar for those necessary doctor visits

Scott D. Miller, MD, is the Medical Director of Robotic Surgery at WellStar North Fulton Hospital. He is a urologist with WellStar Urology in Roswell and has practiced in Atlanta for over 20 years.

• Eat a healthy and balanced diet (in the right amounts) • Perform moderate exercise on a regular basis • Develop a good bedtime routine • Drive safely

We all want to please others, but sometimes men need to hear what’s best for them. Don’t be afraid to say that a second basket of tortilla chips is a bit much while waiting for that order of fajitas. Point out when they’re looking fatigued and suggest a little more exercise and sleep. Approaching these sensitive issues can be difficult, but not as difficult as losing that loved one.

• Don’t smoke • Wear sunscreen • Take out the trash (are you still reading?)

Sometimes men need a kick in the pants.

Women are the best coaches for a healthy lifestyle. That’s one reason you never hear that women need a kick in the skirt.

WellStar North Fulton Hospital offers the Know Your Heart Screening that can determine your risk of heart disease, stroke and other serious conditions.

Call 770-956-STAR (7827) to learn more or schedule an appointment.

Scott D. Miller, MD WellStar North Fulton Hospital • (470) 956-4230 • ScottDMillerMD.com bestselfatlanta.com

1019_048-059_PIH.indd 55

BEST SELF ATLANTA

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

55

9/24/19 3:56 PM

2019 Partners in Health

The Ties That Bond: Make Friends and Get Fit at Windy Hill Athletic Club

By Trip Baisden

Q

How does being social and active help people in general? What does the research tell us? TK: Our belief is

that active and social people lead happier, healthier lives.

Studies have shown that a strong social support network can be critical to help people through the stress of tough times, whether they’ve had a bad day at work or a year filled with loss or chronic illness.

Friends also play a significant role in promoting overall health. Adults with strong social support have a reduced risk of many significant health problems, including depression, high blood pressure, and an unhealthy body mass index (BMI). Studies have even found that older adults with a rich social life are likely to live longer than their peers with fewer connections. Since supportive family, friends and coworkers are such an important part of our lives, it’s never too soon to cultivate these important relationships.

Q

How does WHAC help people get social? TB: Not only do

we have social events at least once a month, all of our club programs are built on building community. For example, our Tennis in No Time (TNT) program is developed by putting people together in groups of eight to learn tennis. This creates

a social aspect to the classes, which creates relationships to build on, as the members become better tennis players.

Q

What are some of the most popular ongoing programs? TK: EBF (Everybody Fights) Ride (Cycle Studio), Dance, Body Pump, Pilates, and Warrior.

Q

What are some of your members favorite events? TK: Casino Night, pool

parties, and Wednesday Wine Down.

Q

What “social tribes” are at WHAC? What are they centered around?

TK: Members that fall into the

“all-out, fitness elite” category enjoy challenging fitness workouts such as Voltage, Warrior, and boot camp classes. Tennis and squash have always had a social aspect to them.

Fitness Programming Manager Tiago Kulaif (TK), and General Manager Trip Baisden (TB)

TB: In tennis, we have some members

MANY OF OUR MEMBERS CALL that like to learn more about the IT THEIR “SECOND HOME.” game. We call them Adult Instructional (AIP). We have many little groups that THAT SAYS IT ALL. have stayed together for a few years Are there groups for to continue to learn together. Our Top men, moms, business Dog group has become its own special professionals, tennis lovers tribe. This group of men and women play and others? TK: Yes! Between flex matches against each other and then get together for food and drinks after their our great fitness programs and tennis coaches, and over 100 group exercise matches. Members meet each other that classes a week—from beginner Tennis have never met before. It has become in No Time to advanced drills—there’s super popular and more social, as well as competitive. something for everyone.

Q

Photography by Jon Ramirez

Learn more about how Windy Hill Athletic Club (WHAC) can help you reach your fitness goals while creating lifelong bonds along the way. Fitness Programming Manager Tiago Kulaif, and General Manager Trip Baisden, tell us more.

Windy Hill Athletic Club • www.windyhillclub.com • 770-953-1100 56

1019_048-059_PIH.indd 56

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

BEST SELF ATLANTA

bestselfatlanta.com

9/24/19 3:56 PM

2019 Partners in Health The Truth About The Effects of Aging

By Paul E. Cox, MD, MS

Before you give in to “normal aging,” get your hormones checked.

You may not have suddenly become depressed, anxious or fatigued for no reason.

Too often, those of us in our late 30s, 40s and 50s are told by our physicians that our experiences with our mind and bodies are just “normal parts of aging.” Fortunately, it may not just be aging that has you feeling different. It might be your hormones and that means there is something we can actually do to change how you feel and what is happening to your body for the better.

So, before you give in to “normal aging,” get your hormones checked. You may not have suddenly become depressed, anxious or fatigued for no reason.

There could be a biological reason that you don’t feel like yourself anymore.

You may not need an antidepressant, AMBIEN®, or ADDERALL® for your new problems. You may just need to get your hormones right.

I was taught as a resident (training) physician that when someone in this (my) age range complained about lack of energy, poor sleep, decreased concentration, increased anxiety, weight gain, muscle loss, etcetera, that the patient might be depressed, have anxiety, insomnia or just signs of normal aging. The reality is that all of these symptoms and more (worsening premenstrual syndrome for women, lack of sex drive in men and women, and irritability, just to name a few) are very often the direct result of hormonal changes in our bodies.

Let’s be honest, hormones are not the cause of every problem we encounter through the aging process. But, I am convinced that they can be a large part of why we feel, think and look different as we age. If they are a part of that problem, why not find out what is going on and fix that first? As someone who has experienced hormonal deficiency first hand and thought it was depression, I can tell you that there isn’t a medication in the world that can make up for a hormonal deficiency. And what is more natural than giving our bodies and our brains the natural molecules they need for us to function and feel our best?

The good news is that these changes are easily detectable in blood work and easily treated with hormonal therapies directed at the specific imbalances.

Make no mistake, this is not your grandmother’s hormone therapy of an estrogen patch or pill without any labs to follow the results. It’s also not the old-time testosterone therapy for men, which was usually a shot of testosterone every two weeks without any labs.

No, state-of-the-art hormonal therapy is based on sound scientific evidence and labs that tell us which hormones your body and brain needs, how much of these hormones your body and brain needs, and when your body and brain needs them.

Notice, I said brain. There is a growing body of literature that demonstrates that the human brain needs these hormones (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone and thyroid hormones) to function at its best. Better brain and better body function simply means a better you.

Thank you for your time. If this article is resonating with you, please let us talk to you more about how your hormones might be an issue.

Board certified in antiaging and family medicine, Paul E. Cox, MD, MS, is an expert at turning back time.

Firmly rooted in a scientific approach, Vital Living Healthcare focuses on early detection, prevention, and innovative treatments to reverse age-related decline. By using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques, along with focusing on all aspects of your health (mind, body, spirit, and surroundings), Dr. Cox will create a comprehensive and personalized design for maintaining or reclaiming your health and vitality. Experience the healthcare you deserve and schedule your complimentary consultation with Dr. Cox today.

Paul E. Cox, MD, MS • Vital Living Healthcare • (404) 843-3636 • www.vitallivinghealthcare.com bestselfatlanta.com

1019_048-059_PIH.indd 57

BEST SELF ATLANTA

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

57

9/24/19 3:56 PM

2019 Partners in Health

Not Just a Man’s Disease Don’t Ignore These Digestive Symptoms

By Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates

Many women commonly mistake colon cancer as a disease that only impacts men. However, statistics show around 49% of new colon cancer diagnoses each year are in women. In fact, 1 in 24 women will develop colon cancer in their lifetime.

Early-stage colon cancer seldom causes any clear or obvious symptoms, so it is very important to not only stay up-to-date on preventive screenings, but also recognize the warning signs.

Symptoms of Colon Cancer • A change in your normal bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool, that lasts for more than a few days • A feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that is not relieved by doing so • Rectal bleeding, dark stools, or blood in the stool • Cramping or abdominal (belly) pain

Don’t Forget Your Behind Pink reminds us to screen for breast cancer. But screening for colon cancer is important, too!

It’s the third leading cause of cancer-related death in women – following lung and breast cancers. At age 50, everyone should get a screening colonoscopy – earlier if you have a family history or other risk factors.* Cover all your assets.

Talk to your doctor about getting screened.

• Weakness and fatigue • Unintended weight loss Colon cancer symptoms are not unique. These same symptoms may be caused by something that isn’t cancer, such as poor diet, infection, hemorrhoids, irritable bowel syndrome, or inflammatory bowel disease.

That being said, if you have any of these issues, it’s important to see your doctor right away so the cause can be found and treated, if needed.

No symptoms? You still need to get screened.

*U.S. Preventive Services Task Force

58

1019_048-059_PIH.indd 58

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

www.atlantagastro.com 1.866.GO.TO.AGA [468.6242]

BEST SELF ATLANTA

Screening is one of the most powerful tools for preventing colon cancer. Most medical guidelines recommend colon cancer screenings begin at age 50 for all healthy adults — younger if other risk factors are present. Talk to your doctor about when you should begin. bestselfatlanta.com

9/24/19 3:56 PM

2019 Partners in Health Five Reasons Why Healthy Baby Teeth are Imperative to Your Child’s Overall Health and Well-Being

By Azi Nia, DMD

We all know that our children will lose their baby teeth and that they will happily give all 20 of them to the tooth fairy in exchange for a buck; but keeping these temporary teeth healthy is imperative to the overall health of your child.

Baby teeth help with the alignment and position of permanent teeth.

Baby teeth save the space for our adult teeth and assist in guiding the adult teeth into their respectful positions. If the child loses a baby tooth too early due to tooth decay, the neighboring teeth can drift into that space, resulting in less room for the permanent tooth or even preventing the permanent tooth from erupting.

Healthy baby teeth protect permanent teeth.

Permanent teeth develop within millimeters to the root of baby teeth. Baby teeth are smaller and have thinner enamel, which allows cavities to spread very quickly. If cavities are not treated, the baby tooth can develop an infection or an abscess. Infection and abscesses can hinder tooth development and cause damage to the permanent tooth underneath.

Baby teeth help with your child’s overall health and nutrition. Healthy teeth help your child chew and digest food without any difficulty. Cavities often result in tooth pain. The pain caused by cavities is sometimes so severe that it impedes your child’s ability to chew, which could lead to nutritional deficiencies.

Baby teeth help support your child’s speech development.

The tongue, lips, and cheeks deflect off teeth when forming sounds.

The presence and proper positioning of baby teeth assist in the formation of correct pronunciation during speech. The tooth structure also provides support for the developing facial muscles and gives shape to your child’s face.

Healthy baby teeth can help your child’s concentration and self-esteem. The pain resulting from tooth decay can also interfere with your child’s ability to concentrate in school, at home, in church, etcetera. A hurting mouth or decayed tooth can cause a poor taste in his/her mouth or cause a foul odor on his/her breath. This could result in your child feeling less confident about his/her smile and deter smiling.

Azi Nia, DMD, is a board-certified pediatric dentist. Dr. Azi (as her patients call her) attended Georgia State University and continued on to the Medical College of Georgia to earn her Doctorate of Dental Medicine. In order to become a specialist in pediatric dentistry, she completed a 3-year residency at Colorado Children’s Hospital, where she also served as chief resident. Dr. Azi is dedicated to providing excellent pediatric dental care and building confidence in her patients.

Creating a positive dental experience customized to each young patient is central to her practice’s philosophy.

Nia Pediatric Dentistry • (770) 479- 9999 • www.niadentistry.com bestselfatlanta.com

1019_048-059_PIH.indd 59

BEST SELF ATLANTA

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

59

9/24/19 3:56 PM

G

G

YOUR

UIDE • V

LUNT EE R•

O

bestcause

-BACK IVE

As a part of its “85 Acts of Kindness” campaign, Georgia’s Own Credit Union partnered with Atlanta Braves shortstop Dansby Swanson to treat more than 200 students at Green Acres Elementary School in Smyrna to a pizza party they’d never forget. Wearing one of his signature “Be Your Best Self” shirts, the sports star made a surprise appearance on Friday, Aug. 16 at the school and brought 85 Papa John’s pizzas with him as a reward for the students’ remarkable progress in Georgia DANSBY SWANSON (MIDDLE) AND REPRESENTATIVES FROM GEORGIA’S OWN CREDIT UNION, THE WILBERT GROUP AND Milestones testing, which included a PAPA JOHN’S PREPARE TO SURPRISE GREEN ACRES ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS WITH 85 PIZZAS. 16.2% increase in math scores. “Many of our kids come from other countries and don’t get to experience celebrations and praise like this for their hard work, and don’t get to meet a hometown hero who is an athlete,” says principal Ashley Mize.

Pizza Party with a Purpose

The affair was complete with autographs, selfies, and discussion of favorite types of pizza (Swanson’s is Buffalo chicken, in case you were wondering). Georgia’s Own also donated $8,500 to All Things Loyal, Swanson’s apparel brand, which aims to celebrate the culture, community, and positivity within Atlanta. In keeping with the brand’s dedication to donating a portion of its profits to local nonprofits, Swanson gave an allotment of the monetary gift to Atlanta Children’s Shelter.

Join in on the giving by purchasing an All Things Loyal “Be Your Best Self” T-shirt and part of the proceeds will be donated to community organizations.

Details: https://georgiasown.org; https://allthingsloyal.com

Leveling Up Driven by the notion of “a hand up, not a handout,” Year Up Greater Atlanta provides underserved youth ages 18 to 24 with an intensive 1-year training program to help them move from minimum wage to a meaningful career. Students spend the first six months in a classroom environment and learn professional and technical skills like business communications and app development, then earn a six-month internship with a corporate partner such as Cox Enterprises, Inc. Support the nonprofit by signing up to speak to a class, become a mentor or tutor, and more.

Details: https://yearup.org

Have your little ones don their favorite fairy wings, cape, or costume and join Best Self Atlanta at 10 a.m. on Oct. 20 as we partner with Children Helping Children to present the Fly-K Fun Run. Kicking off the LOVEFEST-Free Family Festival, during the Fly-K, kids can race around The Meadow at Piedmont Park and receive a necklace each time they complete a lap. Plus, participants of this pup-friendly event will get first access to a yoga class immediately following.

Details: https://chcatlanta.org/lovefest

60

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

1019_060-061_CAUSE.indd 60

BEST SELF ATLANTA

YEAR UP GREATER ATLANTA STUDENTS MODEL TEAMWORK AS THEY DEVELOP INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS DURING THE SIX-MONTH LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT PHASE OF THE PROGRAM.

Photos courtesy of (top) Cobb Schools; (bottom right) Year Up Greater Atlanta.

Photography by (bottom left) Michael Feher Photography.

Fly-K Fun Run Kicks Off LOVEFEST

bestselfatlanta.com

9/24/19 3:25 PM

G

G

YOUR

UIDE • V

LUNT EE R•

O

give-back guide

Featured events For more events, visit www.bestselfatlanta.com.

-BACK IVE

Oct. 10

Oct. 14

MACRAMÉ AND BEER WORKSHOP + INCOMMUNITY GIVEBACK @ TUCKER BREWING During this two-hour class ($36), enjoy a craft brew, learn basic knots, and take home your own handmade macramé plant hanger. https://incommunityga.org

ESTHER CANNIZZO JUNIOR GOLF FOUNDATION ANNUAL FUNDRAISER The nonprofit behind this exciting tournament, The Esther Cannizzo Junior Golf Foundation, helps young golfers in need of financial assistance further their sporting dreams by raising funds to provide coaching, equipment, and access to tournaments. www.esthercannizzogolffoundation.org

Oct. 11 FROM AVALON TO THE WORLD: DAY OF THE GIRL CELEBRATION Be a part of this festive affair featuring face painting, music, a live butterfly release, and more! Proceeds will benefit She Is Safe, an organization working to educate, rescue, and empower survivors of human trafficking, along with girls/women who are at risk of becoming victims of it. https://experienceavalon.com

Oct. 18 24TH ANNUAL CHEER FOR CHILDREN BALL Join the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy and its chairwoman Melanie Archer for an evening of food and fun to support the organization’s programs for abused children. www.cheerforchildren.org

Nov. 2

Oct. 20 LITTLE HANDS, BIG LOVEFEST! This family festival hosted by Children Helping Children and sponsored by Atlanta Best Media/ Best Self Atlanta is orchestrated by youth and features interactive give-back projects. Youngsters will learn about service and compassion while having fun. Be sure to participate in the Fly-K Fun Run for kids before the festival begins.

Participants race through Piedmont Park and earn money for local charities. Preregistration is required. www.chclovefest.com

Oct. 26

KIDZ2LEADERS ANNIVERSARY GALA - “CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF CAMP HOPE” Join Kidz2Leaders for dinner and dancing and support this organization, which works to break the cycle of incarceration. https://kidz2leaders.org

Nov. 3 LES DAMES D’ESCOFFIER’S AFTERNOON IN THE COUNTRY 2019 Savor samples from notable Atlanta restaurants to assist this international organization of female culinary leaders. www.ldeiatlanta.org/aitc

Nov. 8

MAKING STRIDES AGAINST BREAST CANCER OF ATLANTA – WALK Celebrate survivors while raising awareness about breast cancer. www.makingstrideswalk.org/atlantaga

CHAMPION OF THE YEAR GALA Proceeds will help expand Best Buddies® programs, which create life enrichment and job opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disorders. https://bestbuddieschampion.org

Look for this icon to find out where you can volunteer.

FREE FAMILY PHILANTHROPIC FESTIVAL

2019 09

MUST REGISTER TO ATTEND AT chclovefest.com

The Meadow at Piedmont Park October 20TH 11am-7pm 10am Fly-K Fun Run 11am-7pm LoveFest

bestselfatlanta.com

1019_060-061_CAUSE.indd 61

BEST SELF ATLANTA

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

61

9/24/19 3:25 PM

my best self Lauren Simmons It’s all in the numbers for Lauren Simmons—more specifically— the number two, which you could say is a significant one for her. Two years ago, at the age of 22, the Marietta native and Kennesaw State University graduate became the youngest and only full-time female equity trader, for Rosenblatt Securities, on the New York Stock Exchange. The role also made her the second African-American woman in history to serve as a full-time trader.

Thankfully, things have changed since the first woman started working on the floor in 1967, like the creation of a women’s restroom.

Though her signature trader jacket had to be tailored to fit (the item only comes in men’s sizes), the former genetics student has handled stepping into a world dominated by men with ease. Here she talks breaking glass ceilings, the movie being made about her life, and staying centered.

By Melanie Preis

While you job hunted in New York, you created a vision board and read self-help books to maintain a positive attitude. What other tools did you utilize to create the right headspace?

Meditation. My mediation practice started in college and stemmed from a desire to change my mindset. One day, I sat down in my dorm room and just sat in stillness. I loved how I felt during and after. I felt in control of my life and at peace. From there, I have continued the practice. My stress management comes from yoga, Pilates, and mediation. I try to stay in a routine so I can be centered and focused.

How does it feel to be the youngest and only full-time female equity trader on Wall Street for Rosenblatt Securities?

When I first came to the trading floor, I really do not believe anybody thought I was going to pass the Series 19 [the exam all floor brokers must pass to receive their badge], which has a 20% pass rate. But I did it! I did it for me, to prove that I could do it and thoroughly shocked the men on the trading floor. Hopefully, my story will encourage women as a whole to join finance, not just the trading floor. The numbers of women versus men [in this industry] are staggering.

What advice do you have for women working in, or trying to get in, male-dominated fields?

Photo courtesy of Lauren Simmons, photography by Ida John.

Don’t put unnecessary pressure on yourself. You were hired because they thought you were capable. I encourage you to do the job and do the job to the best of your ability. Often, women get in their heads and have imposter syndrome. Your biggest critic will always be yourself.

When you let that go, you have the ability to achieve greatness in your role.

Tell us more about the movie being made about your life?

I am working with AGC Studios and am currently one of the executive producers. It will tell my life story and feature actress Kiersey Clemons. I am excited for her to share my message on a larger platform.

You currently live in New York, but what do you miss most about living in Atlanta?

Georgia will always be home. I especially miss its weather during the blustery winter months here. Sweet tea—it’s not a thing in New York.

And grass—I love to hike and be outside. New York is a concrete jungle, and I don’t get to experience it as much.

What helps you be your “best self?”

One of the books I rely on is “The Universe Has Your Back” by Gabrielle Bernstein. I reread it often when I’m in doubt, and it helps me be a better me, and reminds me to let things go.

To follow Lauren’s journey, visit https://instagram.com/lasimmons.

62

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2019

1019_062-064_MyBestSELF.indd 62

BEST SELF ATLANTA

bestselfatlanta.com

9/24/19 1:43 PM

1019_062-064_MyBestSELF.indd 63

9/23/19 11:03 AM

Photo courtesy of Lauren Simmons, photography by Ida John.

1019_062-064_MyBestSELF.indd 64

9/20/19 3:49 PM