Central Florida Health News January 2021

tude of excited Jollibee patrons waiting to get their hands on their Jollibee favorites, but also first-timers waiting to have their own Jollibee experience," said Jose Miñana, Jollibee Foods Corporation's Group President for North America.

volume 10 | issue 10 | january 2021

FREE — TAKE ONE!

"There's no greater joy for us than serving the needs and tastes of Jollibee fans in the community. At Jollibee, we aim to bring families together for happy moments over great tasting food with superior value, served with warm and friendly service –our own brand of joy." The brand has become a symbol of nostalgia and warm childhood memories for many overseas Filipinos in the U.S. To many, Jollibee is the go-to restaurant of Filipinos for both special

New Year, New You!

TRANSFORMATION

Surgery a Game-Changer in Woman’s Weight Loss Journey

get to try Jollibee's signature menu items such as the world famous Chickenjoy. This dish is delicately breaded to be crispylicious on the outside and juicylicious inside. The well-loved Jolly Spaghetti is a favorite of both kids and kids-at-heart because of its signature sweetstyle sauce, loaded with chunky slices of savory ham, ground meat, and hotdog. Other classic menufavorites include the juicy and cheesy Jolly Hotdog, and the Peach Mango Pie, which is made with real Philippine sweet mangoes and a flaky golden brown crust.

WHERE SOUL MEETS BODY

Start the Year Right With the Mental, Physical Benefits of Yoga A NOSE FOR COVID

Central Florida Company

Trains Canines to Detect Virus

largest Asian restaurant company, is now open in Jacksonville. This is the 36th store in the US, as well as the first in the state and Southeast US. It opened to the public on March 18, 2017. Jacksonville is the most populous city in the Sunshine State, as well as home to the largest FilipinoAmerican community in Florida. The longawaited arrival of Jollibee in the city has

See JOLLIBEE page 15

AN EMERGENCY IS STILL AN EMERGENCY. EVEN DURING THIS EMERGENCY.

Don’t let COVID-19 stop you from getting emergency treatment.

Even during a pandemic, you still need to be treated immediately if you have an emergency. Debating whether or not to risk going to an emergency room during a heart attack, stroke or other health emergency—waiting even a few extra minutes—could be harmful. That’s why in all BayCare hospital emergency rooms, patients who have symptoms of COVID-19 are screened and treated in a separate area. This helps keep emergency room patients and our team members safe. So if it’s an emergency, don’t wait. For more information: BayCareEmergencyCare.org

Winter Haven operating room technician Elizabeth Lawhorne tells her amazing story of overcoming obesity and poor health with the assistance of BayCare’s Dr. Clinton Hall and gastric sleeve surgery. Learn more about the surgery and how it helped her make the lifestyle changes necessary to maintain her weight loss.

A Nose for COVID-19

F1K9, a Central Florida canine scent detection training school, is one of many businesses refocusing their efforts in light of the pandemic. The company trains canines to detect agricultural diseases, among other things. Now, it is training canines to focus on a different target: SARS COV-2, the strain of coronavirus that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

POP QUIZ!

Do you know what type of cancer used to be the leading cause of cancer death for women? The answer is cervical cancer. An increase in awareness and testing has led to a dramatic reduction in deaths from cervical cancer, but it is still a big enough threat that every woman should know how to protect herself. Test your own knowledge!

beef up menus with new twists on American classics

On the Cover

Around the world and in Central Florida, people are searching for ways to start the New Year off right with sound body, mind and soul. Jody Reece, manager and instructor at downtown Winter Haven’s Inside Out Yoga, explains why yoga is such a popular way to achieve your best physical and mental states. Read more, Page 16

since 2016. With the opening, Floridians will get to try Jollibee's signature menu items such as the world famous Chickenjoy. This dish is delicately breaded to be crispylicious on the outside and juicylicious inside. The well-loved Jolly Spaghetti a favorite of both kids and kids-at-heart because of its signature sweetstyle sauce, loaded with chunky slices of savory ham, ground meat, and hotdog. Other classic menufavorites include the juicy and cheesy Jolly Hotdog, and the Peach Mango Pie, which made with real Philippine

Departments & Columns

5 PCMA LETTER

6 PUBLISHER'S NOTE

7 MEDICAL ADVICE

8 HEALTHY AGING

8 CALENDAR

22 EDITOR’S DOSE

POLK COUNTY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION

4315 Highland Park Blvd, Suite B

Lakeland, Florida 33813

863-644-4051

2021 OFFICERS

JAMES J. BOOKER, MD President

GEORGE LYLE, MD Secretary

STUART PATTERSON, MD Treasurer

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

RALPH NOBO, JR., MD, Chair

GEORGE LYLE, MD

STUART PATTERSON, MD

GARY SCHEMMER, MD

SERGIO SEOANE, MD

ARVIND SONI, MD

To a New Year and a New You!

This January, perhaps more than ever before, we need a fresh start. Even if the only thing that changes is the date, let’s use the new year as a chance to change our mindset and set our path straight. After all, isn’t that what New Year’s resolutions are for? This year, in particular, there are a lot of influencing factors we don’t have control over. But you can make changes in your own life that can bring healthier, happier tomorrows.

This is the annual New Year, New You edition of Central Florida Health News, in which we talk about ways to improve physical and mental health.

In this edition, we talk with Elizabeth Lawhorne, who has undergone a lifechanging transformation since getting gastric sleeve surgery. Down to 165 from 356 pounds, Lawhorne walks us through her weight-loss journey from the beginning. Plus, we speak with her doctor, Clinton Hall, about the surgery. Keeping with our theme of positive life changes, we offer you a look at yoga and the myriad benefits it has to offer

both mind and body. Jody Reece, manager and instructor of Winter Haven’s Inside Out Yoga, explains why you may want to pick up this hobby to start your year off right.

While we want to start the new year on a positive note, there’s no denying that COVID-19 is still very much on everyone’s radars. Inside, you can learn about one Central Florida company that is training canines to sniff out infections in humans. The company had been focusing on detecting citrus canker in the agricultural sector when it realized it was in an ideal position to fight COVID-19.

Don’t forget to test your knowledge about cervical cancer with our Pop Quiz! January is Cervical Health Month, and we want to arm you with the best information to keep you and your loved ones safe! Here’s to a healthy new year! HN

Some of the benefits of a PCMA membership include the following:

✱ Physician referrals

✱ Medical malpractice discounts with The Doctors Company

✱ Ongoing relevant communication

✱ Access to CME Programs

✱ Workers compensation insurance benefits

✱ Complimentary Socials/ dinners

✱ Strong PCMA physician representation in Central Florida Health News and Central Florida Doctor publications

✱ Listing advantages in the annual Central Florida Physicians Directory & Medical Providers Guide

✱ Physician and medicine advocacy at all legislative levels.

JACKIE

COURTNEY Executive Director

4315 Highland Park Blvd Suite B

Lakeland, Florida 33813

Sincerely,

James J. Booker, MD

James J. Booker, MD Obstetrician and Gynecologist, Winter Haven President, Polk County Medical Association

If you’d like more information about becoming a PCMA member or need to check your membership status for renewal, contact our Executive Director Jackie Courtney at (863) 644-4051 or email director@ polkcountydoctors.com.

2020 and the Tale of an Incredible Community

NELSON KIRKLAND, PUBLISHER

nelson@centralfloridamediagroup.com

With the close of 2020, there was a collective sigh of relief. Hundreds of thousands of lives have been lost to COVID-19, and each night we keep their families in our prayers as we eagerly await the promise of a new day.

The year was a busy one for those of us here at Central Florida Health News as we worked to continue our mission under the constraints of social distancing and abundant caution. We moved our much anticipated Health Expo to a virtual platform, creating a safe environment for sharing ideas facilitating connections.

As the scope of the pandemic became clear, we focused our coverage to bring you incredible stories of strength and perseverance. We introduced you to Winter Haven missionary Danny Jones and his family, all of whom contracted the virus early on, as well as Auburndale’s Keith Johnson, who shared with us his own victory over COVID-19.

We knew there was more to the story than the pain and the suffering. The words of Mr. Rogers rang true through the world’s grief and fear: “Always look for the helpers. There’s always someone who is trying to help.”

Throughout the rest of the year, we brought you countless tales of heroism and courage among the health heroes. Their determination was contagious, and we eagerly shared their stories. Words can’t adequately convey our appreciation for the health heroes among us, and we know our community is filled with them.

If there’s something that we take away from 2020, let it be this: This community rises to the occasion even in the hardest of times. Nothing can keep it down ... not even 2020.

God bless, and let’s start the year with a heart full of appreciation. HN

PUBLISHER

Nelson Kirkland

MANAGING EDITOR

Jessica McDonald

PROJECT MANAGER

David Kiessling

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Juanita Halter

MARKETING DIRECTOR & DIGITAL SPECIALIST

Morgan Driggers

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Erika Aldrich, Mary Joye, LMHC , Paul Catala, Julie Gmitter, Teresa Schiffer, Carol Corley, Dr. Joy Jackson

CONTRIBUTING COLUMNISTS

Aly Sheraly, MD , Ritu Aparajita, MD

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

April Spaulding

CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS

Dawn Lewandowski

DELIVERY

DLS Distribution

Screening, Vaccinations Help Fight Cervical Cancer

by DR. JOY JACKSON

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

January is Cervical Health Awareness Month and an important time of year to raise awareness about the importance of cervical health screenings for women. The Florida Department of Health in Polk encourages women to visit their healthcare provider to be screened for cervical cancer and learn more about preventing cervical cancer through lifestyle change and vaccination. It is important for women to know their health status and attend regular health checkups.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cervical cancer used to be the leading cause of cancer death in women in the United States. However, this has decreased significantly over the last 40 years largely due to women receiving regular screenings which identifies cervical precancer before it develops into cancer. Women are encouraged to get screened regularly, beginning at age 21, and by receiving appropriate follow-up care.

According to CDC, women can reduce or prevent their risk of cervical cancer by:

• Getting the HPV vaccine

• Seeing their health care provider regularly for cervical cancer screenings between ages 21 and 65

• Not smoking

• Limiting the number of sexual partners

Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a common virus that is passed from one person to another

during sexual activity. The CDC states that HPV is estimated to cause nearly 36,000 cases of cancer in men and women every year in the United States. It can cause six difference types of cancer. However, only cervical cancer can be detected early. The other five cancers may not be detected until they cause other health issues.

The HPV vaccine is a cancer prevention vaccine and can help protect men and women from these various cancers that HPV causes. According to the CDC, the HPV vaccine can help prevent multiple cancers, including cervical cancer and cancer of the mouth and throat. The HPV vaccine is recommended for boys and girls who are 11 to 12 years old but can be given as early as age 9 and until age 26.

There are two screening tests available that can help prevent cervical cancer or find it early. The first is a Pap test (or Pap smear). This screening looks for precancers or cell changes on the cervix that might become cervical cancer if they are not treated appropriately. Talk to your health care provider about when a Pap test is most appropriate for you. The HPV test is another test which looks for the virus that can cause these cell changes. Tests for specific HPV strains can support earlier diagnosis of cervical cancer.

To learn more about cervical cancer awareness, visit the CDC’s website at cdc.gov.

To learn more about HPV and HPV vaccines, also visit the CDC’s website at cdc.gov/hpv. HN

Dr. Joy Jackson, an internal medicine physician, serves the community as director of the Florida department of Health in Polk County (DOH-Polk). For more information about DOHPolk, visit mypolkhealth.org. Follow DOH-Polk on Twitter at twitter.com/FLHealthPolk.

January 2021 | CALENDAR

Glaucoma and Dry Eyes

Eye doctors are excited this year with 2021 rolling in. It’s an excellent opportunity for us to shine some light on eye care topics that we would like to highlight. January is Glaucoma Awareness Month.

Over 2 million Americans are affected by glaucoma. With proper treatment, the vast majority will not go blind from this silent disease of the eye. The most common form of treatment is eye drops. These drops are very important and work to reduce the eye’s pressure, thus reducing the risk of glaucoma damage. For the vast majority, eye drops are sufficient for controlling the eye pressure.

While eye drops are a safe and effective method of controlling eye pressures, they can come with some side-effects. One particular side effect that I’d like to discuss is dry eyes. Having dry eyes can be a frustrating and difficult side effect for patients to understand and tolerate. So I’d like to go over some of the reasons and also some potential solutions to help.

Dry eyes are caused when the tear film of the eye is disrupted in some way. This tear film coats the eye to keep it moist, comfortable and helps keep the vision sharp and focused. If the tear film breaks down for any reason it can lead to decreased vision and discomfort of the eyes. There are many causes of dry eyes and glaucoma drops is one potential reason. It is estimated that about 60% of patients with glaucoma have dry eye symptoms.

In many cases it is the preservative in the glaucoma drop. This preservative can disrupt the tear film which can lead to feelings of discomfort or redness. The tear film becomes irregular and inconsistent causing light not to bend correctly into the eye which leads to decreased vision.

While it can be frustrating to have side effects from medications, it is important to continue treatment as glaucoma that is left untreated can cause permanent irreversible vision loss. There are many solutions to try and it’s best to talk to your eye doctor to pick the right solution for you.

One of the most common solutions for dry eye symptoms is to use artificial tears to supplement and strengthen the tear film while on your glaucoma medications. Another common solution is to find a glaucoma drop that may have a different side effect profile that is more tolerable. Not all glaucoma drops affect the tear film the exact same way in every patient, so there is some room for trying different medications to find the right one for you. There may also be opportunities to complete glaucoma office procedures or eye surgeries that can supplement or replace the need to use drops while still achieving the desired goals for eye pressures.

Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your eye doctor. At Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida, P.A., we utilize the latest technology and therapies to treat our glaucoma patients and do our best to minimize side effects as much as possible. We look forward to seeing you in the new year. Schedule your appointment today! Remember 2020: your vision is our focus.

Active Kids 2.0

Keep the kids healthy and moving with these free, daily activity videos. Simply clear an area appropriate for movement for the children and search for Active Kids 2.0 on YouTube. A new 30-minute video is posted each weekday at 9 a.m. Past videos are also available.

All Fit Orlando

All Fit Orlando is a gym offering a free 12-week boot camp style workout video during the COVID-19 pandemic. Little or no workout equipment is required for these energetic routines. You can access them anytime on their app or online at allfitorlando.com/freehomeworkout.

American Public Health Association Webinars

Learn about a variety of health topics in the free webinars offered by the American Public Health Association (APHA) at apha.org/events-and-meetings/webinars. They cover a wide range of issues in healthcare and public wellness on a regular basis and also offer exclusive content to members of APHA.

AdventHealth Coronavirus Resource Hub

Get up-to-date information about the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) including risk factors, symptoms, history, and treatment. You can also sign up to receive news alerts via text or email regarding current developments. Blogs, videos, and links to other resources makes this website a valuable tool for staying informed on this ongoing medical crisis. Make adventhealth.com/coronavirus-resource-hub the first place you go for coronavirus facts.

BayCare HealthChat

BayCare Health offers informative, free podcasts on a variety of healthcare topics, hosted by the talented doctors and medical professionals of BayCare. Topics cover everything from aging, to cancer, to children’s health, emergencies, healthy eating, and much more. You can find BayCare HealthChat online at baycare.doctorpodcasting.com.

BrainFlex Wellness Club

This “body, mind, and spirit” approach to aging well is geared towards seniors looking to stay sharp and fit as they age. The class incorporates four key concepts: exercise/meditation, social connections, interactive nutrition education, and brain training/life-long learning. The goal is to slow or prevent cognitive decline and improve quality of life. This class takes place on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. The Zoom link is https://us02web. zoom.us/j/3876883694. Before the class, please download and print class materials from BrainFlexWellness.com. If you have any other questions, please email ORL.MDC@AdventHealth.com.

Caregiver Support Group –Weekly

This group meets every Monday at 11 a.m. to discuss caregiver concerns and provide fellowship and support for one another. Meetings are currently taking place online using the Zoom platform. You can join the recurring meeting using this link: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/86739398714, or email ORL.MDC@ AdventHealth.com for more information.

ALY SHERALY, M.D.

This column is sponsored by Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida, and the opinions expressed herein may not reflect those of CFHN or of its advertisers. BIO: Dr. Sheraly is an Ophthalmologist with Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida. He is a Glaucoma Specialist.

compiled by TERESA SCHIFFER

Functionally Fit – Virtual Exercise

During this online class, participants are guided through a series of functional strength training exercises to improve cardiovascular fitness, mobility, motor control, and balance. Caregivers are encouraged to join in on the exercises. This workshop is delivered through Zoom teleconferencing platform and takes place every 3rd Thursday of the month from 2 – 3 p.m. The link to join is https:// us02web.zoom.us/j/3876883694. For more information, please email ORL. MDC@AdventHealth.com.

Monthly Caregiver Support Group

(Previously Met at Faith Assembly)

This monthly group meets to share advice and experiences, and encourage one another. The group meets at 1 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month using the Zoom online platform. The link to join the meeting is https://us02web. zoom.us/j/89447209844. If you have any questions, please email ORL.MDC@ AdventHealth.com.

Music Therapy

Join board certified music therapists on the first Tuesday of every month at 11 a.m. The Maturing Minds Music Therapy group uses neurologic music therapy techniques to boost brain and behavior functions, such as memory, communication, attention, and movement. The meetings are taking place online using Zoom. The link for the recurring meeting is https://us02web.zoom. us/j/3876883694. Please email ORL. MDC@AdventHealth.com if you have any questions.

Ostomy 2-1-1

Ostomy 2-1-1 is a nonprofit organization that provides information and support to individuals and their families who are living with an ostomy bag. Their website, ostomy211.org, provides a wealth of resources to find online support groups, ostomy supplies, and answers to all your questions.

Watson Clinic’s “Health E-News”

If you are a patient at Watson Clinic or are in need of becoming one, you’ll want to stay informed about what services are being offered and upcoming events at their various Central Florida locations. You can sign up for their free monthly newsletter at watsonclinic.com/aboutus/health-e-news.html.

YMCA Central Florida

Get your exercise in at home with these fun and invigorating videos brought to you by the Virtual YMCA Wellness Center at ymca360.org. There are videos for adults and seniors, as well as for children, including activities such as yoga, bootcamp, pilates, and stationary cycling. Stay healthy and active in the safety of your own home.

EVENTS AND FUNDRAISERS

January 2 -

FOREVER AMOR Ambitiously Fit Event

This is a FREE monthly event taking place on the first Saturday of every month at 1255 E Main St in Bartow. Get your fit on with Forever Amor and Abundant Believers Church (ABC) and Prime Era Performance (PEP). The Forever Amor movement and clothing line spreads awareness to mental health issues through community outreach events such as this. Water, nutritional material, resources for mental health wellness, and more will be provided. Fun for the whole family, all ages welcome! Show up with athletic or running shoes, a sweat towel, and a yoga mat (optional) and be ready to sweat! To learn more, please visit foreveramor.com.

January 6 –

World Imagined to a #BetterLife

From 7:30 – 9 p.m. there will be an open discussion on ways to improve and LIVE a #BetterLife at Munn Park, 210 E Main St in Lakeland. There will be a 3-mile 3 Lakes Walkabout (weather permitting). Due to social distancing, this event is limited to 10 people. Please RSVP by visiting eventbrite.com and searching for “World Imagined to a #BetterLife.” This event will be live-streamed at facebook.com/WorldImagined.

January

9 –

Beginner Rumba Lessons

Dance your way to a healthier you at these weekly dance lessons! Meet every Saturday morning from 10:30 a.m. – 12 noon from January 9 through March 27 at the Strawberry Square Dance Center, located at 4401 Promenade Blvd in Plant City. The fee is $7 per person, per lesson. No prior dance experience is necessary. Get more information by visiting strawberrysquaredancing.com, or you can email strawberrydance@ aol.com or call (813) 752-0491.

January 19 –

Ribbon Cutting for Cornerstone Centers for Wellbeing

RSVP REQUIRED! Celebrate the grand opening of Cornerstone Hospice’s newest line of services – a counseling group called Cornerstone Centers for Wellbeing. It is located at 2140 E County 540A in Lakeland. The ceremony will take place from 10 – 10:30 a.m. Learn more about what Cornerstone Hospice offers by visiting their website at cornerstonehospice.org.

TRANSFORMATION

Winter Haven Operating Room Technician Opens Up About Her Weight Loss Surgery and Journey

by TERESA SCHIFFER photos by APRIL SPAULDING

Elizabeth Lawhorne was living a life of frustration and poor health before she made a decision that would change her life forever. Lawhorne was 356 pounds with serious health issues, including high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and prediabetes, plus a family history of heart disease, when she began researching bariatric surgery as an option. In particular, she was interested in gastric sleeve surgery, a bariatric procedure that removes 75-80% of the stomach. It is now the most commonly performed bariatric procedure in United States and worldwide.

“In the beginning of 2018, I decided that having gastric sleeve surgery was probably the best thing that I could do,” the Winter Haven Operating Room Technician says.

“I had tried diet and exercise on my own and it didn’t work out very well. I had PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) pretty bad, and it doesn’t make it very easy to lose weight.” Lawhorne recalls.

Lawhorne learned of bariatric surgeon Dr. Clinton Hall through some co-workers who had undergone sleeve gastrectomy surgery. Hall is a board-certified surgeon with BayCare in Winter Haven. He has assisted hundreds of patients in their successful surgical weight loss journeys. The patient’s weight loss odyssey does not begin and end with a surgical procedure, however. There is a process of preparation and aftercare involved that will ultimately transform the patient’s lifestyle. The process begins with an informative video, after which the patient chooses a surgeon. Lawhorne had heard good things about Hall, who has been practicing surgery for a decade after completing his fellowship in surgical weight loss surgery at Ohio State University. Once the decision to move forward was made, Lawhorne had four sessions with a dietician, followed by a meeting with a psychiatrist and then a fitness instructor. The entire process took about six months.

Once the surgery was scheduled, Lawhorne was given a two-week diet to adhere to. She describes the surgeon’s instructions to her prior to surgery, “Dr. Hall told me that if I didn’t do my two-week diet like I was supposed to, he would know, and if my liver hadn’t shrunk enough to do the surgery he would close me up and he wouldn’t do it.”

The pre-surgery diet consists of a high-protein, liquid regimen comprised of four protein shakes per day, plus a list of other approved

ELIZABETH LAWHORNE DR. CLINTON HALL

foods with water or milk. Lawhorne needed to eat six times daily, so between protein shakes she could have sugar-free Jell-O, plain oatmeal, Dannon Light & Fit or Greek vanilla yogurt, celery, tomatoes, carrots, onions, broccoli, cauliflower, or unsweetened applesauce.

“The first week it’s hard – very hard,” Lawhorne describes of the special diet. “But once you get past the first week, it gets easier.”

Lawhorne followed the diet faithfully, despite being tired of the protein shakes after a week, and her sleeve gastrectomy was performed on August 29, 2018. This was Lawhorne’s first surgery, so she had some apprehensions about going under the knife, but she trusted Hall and took his advice to get up and walk as much as possible after the procedure. Within a week she found herself pain-free and walking on a daily basis.

After the surgery, Lawhorne was on a liquid diet for the first 11 days. The next 14 days was a pureed food diet, for which she simply bought baby food, as it was the easiest way to ensure she was consuming a nutritious, high-protein diet. Lawhorne was limited to 4-ounce servings at each meal, with a restriction on drinking anything for 30 minutes after eating. After the 14 days of pureed food, Lawhorne was able to move on to eating soft foods, such as mashed potatoes, chopped hamburger meat, chicken breast, and some vegetables, but always in 4-ounce meals, and being sure to eat the protein first, in case she got full and couldn’t finish the full 4-ounce allotment.

Hall lauded Lawhorne’s efforts at her one-month and three-month followup appointments, and she was cleared to take up activity at a gym in order to help facilitate her weight loss. The surgeon’s goal was to help Lawhorne decrease her weight to under 200 pounds. At the time, she didn’t take him seriously. Despite her doubts, she resolved to reach a target weight of 180 pounds.

At her one-year check-in with Hall, Lawhorne weighed 182 pounds. “I was mad at myself for those little two pounds!” Lawhorne chuckles, but the support staff at BayCare’s bariatric unit was enthusiastic about her outstanding progress, and she continued to maintain the lifestyle changes she had made, such as exercising regularly and eating better.

Now, a little more than two years years after her surgery, Lawhorne is proud to report that she now weighs 165 pounds — putting the total weight lost at 190 pounds. She has since moved from walking to running several times a week, and continues to monitor what foods she eats in order to minimize carbohydrates and get plenty of protein. Success stories like Lawhorne’s are what makes Hall proud to be in this line of work.

continued on page 22

Resolutions for Resilience

by MARY JOYE, LMHC

New Year’s resolutions usually involve deprivation to change a behavior and this can produce a negative and resistant mindset. Emotional negativity, like physical gravity, can pull us downward into states of feeling defeated before we even embark on making or keeping a resolution. For example, feel the difference between these statements: I need to LOSE weight vs. I want to GAIN health. The second way is motivational and sustainable. It is less punitive and more buoyant, which increases resilience and resistance to self-sabotage.

Those with resilience reach for goals from a positive perspective to create achievement momentum. The American Psychological Association defines resilience as:

“The process of adapting well in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats, or significant sources of stress—such as family and relationship problems, serious health problems, or workplace and financial stressors.”

The negative events mentioned could define everyone on the globe after 2020. It has been more traumatic for some who have had direct contact with trauma, but trauma is not a competition. No one feels or experiences the same trauma in the same way. Dr. Susan Kobasa, a psychologist, has worked to identify the main elements of resilient people and they are finding excitement in challenge, commitment and control. In theory these are self-explanatory, but how can you learn resilience if you don’t naturally possess it? We’ve been in survival mode and it’s time for revival mode.

Perhaps this ABC of expediting resilience will help put the theory into practice.

Adaptability • Bravery • Community

We have all been forced to discover adaptability to adversity this past year as we had to accept we were not as in control of our lives as we thought. We faced lockdowns, wore masks, washed our hands often and socially distanced, which further compromised resilience as we are wired to be in

relationship with others. Many became mentally exhausted from hypervigilance. It took bravery to find a new normal. Bravery means being afraid and doing it anyway. Our healthcare heroes and first responders courageously continue to serve others while putting their health at risk. As a community we learned to be part of the solution. Community cooperation helps individuals feel a greater sense of safety and reinforces resilience. There is truly safety in numbers, and excessive isolation is kryptonite to resilience. When making resolutions for your physical health this year, think of your mental health, too. The stigma of seeking mental health help is reducing because need and acceptance is increasing. Below are three major reasons for adding mental health care to your resolutions:

1. It clears the clutter in the “closet” of your brain. Talking with a professional can help relieve unresolved grief, trauma, guilt and other issues. Unpacking emotional baggage can make connections with the past and present so you can travel lighter toward a future with greater insight and foresight. You can even do this by telehealth in the safety of your home.

2. You can release burdens without judgment or getting advice or opinions from friends or family who may not be able to give you the best answers. A therapist helps you listen to yourself with empathy and advocacy.

3. You can retrain your mind and enhance neuroplasticity, which is the brain’s ability to change a negative perspective to a productive one.

We’ve heard of post-traumatic stress, but there’s post traumatic growth, too. We can use the stress of 2020 for fertilizer, (we all know what that’s made of) and grow upward from it. Begin by exercising resilience because when you feel better emotionally, you’re better able to run the extra mile or walk away from temptation. You can find and make RE-SOLUTIONS. In doing so, you will stay more buoyant and resilient this year and for years to come. HN

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Mary Joye, LMHC, PA, is a licensed mental health counselor with offices in Lakeland and Winter Haven. She holds a Master of Arts in Counseling from Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville, Tennessee. For more information, visit winterhavencounseling.com.

Central Florida Company Trains Canines to Detect Virus

by JULIE GMITTER

A NOSE FOR COVID-19

In 2020, many people adapted to the changing health crisis — whether it meant conducting business differently, working from home or virtual learning with their kids. F1K9, a Central Florida canine scent detection training school, is one of many businesses refocusing their efforts in light of the pandemic. The company trains canines to detect agricultural diseases, among other things. Now, it is training canines to focus on a different target: SARS COV-2, the strain of coronavirus that causes COVID-19.

Bill Schneider, chief research scientist at F1K9, explains that all their dogs are specifically bred for scent detection and usually of the German shepherd or Belgian Malinois breed. Dogs with long noses and high scent drives are ideal

breeds for scent detection training. The first agricultural disease detection canine at F1K9 was a black lab named Juice who was trained to detect citrus canker. Dogs being trained to detect SARS COV-2 take eight weeks to be validated; additional time is then required for the canines to be authorized to work on human beings. But the whole process takes no more than 10 weeks total for the complete training. With no need for reagents or kits, canines are an ideal resource for efficient and effective testing.

Canine scent detection training works like a behavioral reward system. The canines are rewarded when they alert the trainer to the target scent. Once the canine alerts the

trainer to the presence of the target scent with a particular behavior, such as sitting, they are rewarded.

Schneider and others at F1K9 began discussing the prospect of training the canines in March when COVID-19 cases began the initial rise in the United States. In the initial stages, there were plenty of tests, but they sometimes produced inconsistent results. Because F1K9 had so much success using canines for agricultural diseases, they had a hunch this could be a good opportunity for them. Then, a group from New York contacted them and asked about investing in COVID detection and fronted money to fund their training; the program is called SNIFF. After that, F1K9 purchased four dogs and started training them in August. They learned to find the scent of the virus by the end of September. They then started clinical sample validation in October using masks and clothing items of confirmed COVID positive patients. They progressed to human validation in mid-October in Jacksonville. In both scenarios, all of the dogs were 95-99% accurate at detecting SARS COV2. Once the dogs satisfied that requirement, they

began to team up on a pilot project with the Miami Heat to use their canines to detect COVID-19 at arenas for sports events. The dogs can screen people in about 10 seconds, making it a fast and safe way to help screen patrons at events. Even the thermometers used to screen people upon entry have inconsistencies, meaning canines are the fastest and most accurate screening tool. Most importantly, the canines are more accurate

It’s Never too Early to Start Healthy Financial Habits

at detecting asymptomatic infections, which are most insidious at a large event, and so faster than the PCR method.

The handlers follow CDC guidelines of wearing PPE and masks and maintaining social distance. As for any risks to the canines used for scent detection of active coronavirus infections, Schneider explains: “About 17 dogs have been confirmed to have had COVID-19, through PCR positive results, and none of those dogs are the breeds we use. There may be some genetic component or blood type that protects the dogs, as we have heard about certain blood types potentially working to protect some humans from infection, but we don’t know. These dogs also only encounter people 10 seconds at a time. And risk is a function of time exposure. They are checked very regularly but we don’t anticipate that it will be riskier than people that already own dogs.”

Despite what happens with vaccines and the future COVID-19, the ability for canines to detect coronavirus infections is a step toward finding safe ways for people to participate in activities again. HN

Yoga Can Increase Well-Being Through Meditation, Exercise, Spirituality

by PAUL CATALA

WHERE SOUL MEETS BODY

With roots dating as far back as 5,000 B.C. in India when the spiritual and ascetic discipline was first practiced, countless people have used yoga for health, relaxation and spiritual reasons.

The trend continues today as folks continue to turn to the Hindu tradition for its benefits on the body and mind. Around the world and in Central Florida, people are searching for ways to start the New Year off with sound body, mind and soul.

Jody Reece, manager and instructor at downtown Winter Haven’s Inside Out Yoga, says the ancient meditative practice has been and will continue to be a steady and popular way for students from beginners to advance to achieve their best physical and mental states.

In the Inside Out Yoga studio across from the downtown square, Reece takes time to discuss the benefits of yoga. She says she has been practicing yoga for about 20 years and has found it to be mentally and physically stimulating. She adds that she feels anyone and everyone is capable of achieving an overall better lifestyle through yoga. Reece, who lives in Winter Haven, says yoga practices have been shown to reduce blood

pressure and heart rate. When yoga is practiced, it stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system — the rest and digestive system of the three divisions of the autonomic nervous system — resulting in calmness, less stress and better sleep.

“It’s all connected, starting with the outermost layer of the body and moving inward,” she says. “When I first started it was more for physical benefits and now more people are coming for meditation and relaxing and stress reduction. It gives you more mobility, stability and flexibility.”

Just prior to a recent afternoon class, Sam Cahill of Winter Haven, who’s an advocate for spinal cord injury patients, places his yoga mat on the floor and begins to focus. The 44-yearold chiropractor began yoga about 25 years ago to gain flexibility by moving all his body joints through full ranges of motion.

“When I’m feeling tight, then I know it’s time to do some (yoga) sessions,” says Cahill, who played collegiate volleyball. “And (yoga) is noncompetitive, the only thing you’re competing with is yourself and there’s so many benefits. I’m just a big believer in keeping your body moving and strong and it definitely allows you to relieve the stress from your day.”

Smoking Can Lead to Amputations

Meet Our Doctor

While most people are familiar with the devastating consequences of smoking on their lungs (COPD, cancer), heart (coronary artery disease) or brain (stroke), its direct relation to limb loss escapes public attention!

Dr. Aparajita is a fellowship-trained vascular surgeon and has been serving the Polk County community for the past 1 year. She earned her Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree at University of Delhi, India. She then completed a research fellowship in vascular surgery at Columbia University Medical Center in New York and a residency in General Surgery at Staten Island University Hospital in New York, she completed her fellowship training in Vascular Surgery at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and St. Barnabas Medical Center in New Jersey.

Dr. Aparajita is also a Member of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, UK (MRCS Ed) and completed her Basic Surgical Training in England soon after her medical school.

Dr. Aparajita is the co-author of more than two dozen journal articles, publications and oral presentations, including topics such as endovascular treatment for thrombosis, aortic aneurysm repair, stroke, peripheral artery disease and other vascular conditions.

Additional posts and volunteer work include a teaching position at Hofstra Northwell School of Medicine and as a Member of the Public and Professional Outreach Committee as well as the International Relations Committee at the Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS).

For far too many smokers, the first time they learn of the connection with limb loss is when a vascular surgeon diagnoses them with Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD). The disease starts with either no symptoms at all, or with leg pains when walking (claudication). If the patient continues poor lifestyle habits, like smoking, PAD slowly starves the toes, feet and legs of oxygen, which can lead to gangrene and/ or amputation, if

Dr. Aparajita was recently nominated for the American Medical Association (AMA) Inspiration Award that recognizes physicians who have contributed to the achievements of women in the medical profession.

RITU APARAJITA, MD, MRCS (Ed), MBBS

Specialty: Vascular & Endovascular Surgery

Nicotine from cigarettes is a stimulant that thickens the blood, causes increase in heart rate and narrows the blood

Joining KSC Cardiology November 9, 2020

It increases LDL (bad cholesterol) in the blood and It hastens the progression of narrowing or hardening of

According to John Hopkins Medicine, another benefit of yoga is for those going through an illness, recovering from surgery or living with a chronic condition. Yoga can become part of treatment and even possibly speed up healing. According to the Baltimore-based nonprofit academic medical center, among benefits of yoga are helping with back pain relief, easing arthritis symptoms, boosting heart health, getting better sleep, developing more energy, managing stress and promoting self-care.

More closely monitoring day-to-day health and activity are some of the reasons Inside Out Yoga student Olivia Arrillaga of Winter Haven joined the center. She says after a recent physical, her doctor recommended yoga as part of her “health journey.” She began yoga about a year ago.

“I lost strength in my right arm after an accident. After about a year, I can move it much more and it’s much more flexible,” says Arrillaga, 40, who owns a process-serving business. “It’s a great practice physically and mentally.”

Reece has been teaching yoga in Polk County for about 16 years and along with owner Kerry Wilson, opened Inside Out Yoga at its current downtown Winter Haven town square location in 2017. She currently holds between 15 to 20 classes per week in her studio with about 400 students from children to those in their 70s attending each month.

During the class Cahill and Arrillaga are attending, Reece has the students use yoga blocks to focus on “centering, grounding and alignment.”

“Relax your shoulders. Notice if your head is coming forward or back. Let your eyes be soft and your face be softer. Our face expresses what our mind is thinking,” she tells the class.

The hourlong meditative class is one of three classes offered that day classes being held that day.

“My goal is to make (classes) inclusive to anyone who comes to the room. My hope is they leave feeling more relaxed, calm and confident.” HN

All these changes lead to less blood getting to the feet and ultimately lead to the development of PAD. In the early stages, there is a variety of treatment available for PAD but if aggressive lifestyle changes (smoking cessation, exercise, low fat diet, weight loss) are not instituted, then gangrene, ulcers or wounds set in, with few treatment options and limited success rates.

Unfortunately, studies show that 90% of patients with PAD are smokers and despite counseling and control measures, only 20-25% are able to quit successfully which is very sad. Quitting smoking is probably the most important thing that you can do to save your legs.

The good news is that a variety of support measures and extremely effective medications are available free of cost to help you quit. Smoking pipe and vaping also involves release of nicotine in blood so the effects are similar to cigarettes. Ask your doctor for help or visit tobaccofreeflorida.com to learn about ways to quit smoking.

This column is sponsored by KSC Cardiology, and the opinions expressed herein may not reflect those of CFHN or of its advertisers.

BIO: Dr. Aparajita is a fellowship-trained vascular and endovascular surgeon. She is a co-author of 20+ journal articles and publications and was recently nominated for an Inspiration Award by the American Medical Association (AMA).

RITU APARAJITA, MD, MRCS (ED), MBBS KSC Cardiology

Overindulge Over the Holiday?

Give Your Stomach a Little TLC

by CAROL CORLEY

Foods can be our friend … or not, depending on health conditions. For some of us, certain foods can be a challenge to digest, and they can cause discomfort for hours if we aren’t careful. They tend to be spicy and higher in fat and fiber. Sadly, chocolate, coffee and alcohol can be problematic.

And if you make a bad dietary choice, it can take 24-72 hours to get the food out of your system.

Many foods are kinder to a tender stomach — bland foods like toast, white rice, sweet potatoes, bananas, applesauce, eggs, chicken, salmon tend to be gentle, according to Medical News Today.

Additional foods that are easy on the stomach, according to Healthline, include canned or cook fruits and vegetables, white bread products, dairy (unless lactose intolerant). And for interest, sugar, honey, jelly, and marshmallows are acceptable. Nuts are also good for health and digestion, as long as you don’t overdo.

Planning a diet for a sensitive stomach just takes a little thought. Sometimes eating more slowly and taking smaller portions is easier on digestion. Also, seeing a doctor is important, especially if you haven’t discussed this issue with your physician in the past or if you notice a change in your condition.

Chicken Stew

(Adapted from foodnetwork.com)

Ingredients:

Chicken thighs, 2 pounds, skin removed (can also use legs and breasts, if desired)

Onions, 4 small, quartered

Garlic, 4 cloves peeled

Carrots, 1 pound, peeled and cut into chunks

Potatoes, 1-1/2 pounds washed and cut into chunks

Green beans, 2 handfuls trimmed

Thyme sprigs

Salt and pepper to taste

Parsley

(If desired, could also use parsnips and turnip peeled and cut)

Directions:

Using a large pot, combine all ingredients except parsley, potatoes and green beans, cover with cold water. Once it has boiled, reduce the heat to simmer, cooking until the chicken falls off the bone — about 1-1/2 hours. Discard any scum that comes to the top of the pot. Separate chicken meat from the bone using 2 forks, and replace meat in pot, discarding the bones.

Add potatoes and cook until tender, then add green beans and cook to desired consistency. Add additional salt and pepper to taste. Decorate with fresh parsley.

Salmon

(Adapted from allrecipes.com)

Ingredients:

Salmon fillets with skin, 16 oz

Vegetable oil, 1 teaspoon

Garlic, 1 clove chopped

Tarragon and parsley, fresh chopped, to taste

Mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons

Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon

Lemon juice, 1 teaspoon

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Place salmon fillets skin-side down on a baking sheet lined with foil, brush with vegetable oil and add salt and pepper to taste. Blend garlic, tarragon and parsley to create a paste. Combine mayonnaise, mustard and lemon juice into paste. Spoon spread over top and sides of salmon, and cook under preheated broiler set to high, about 8 inches from the heat source, and cook about 5 minutes or until well browned. Turn off broiler and set oven heat to 350F and bake about 3-4 minutes until salmon reaches 130F at its deepest part. It should flake easily with a fork.

Sweet Potato Casserole

(Adapted from delish.com)

Ingredients:

For sweet potatoes:

Sweet potatoes, 4 cups peeled and cubed

Brown sugar, 1/2 cup Eggs, 2 large

Butter, 8 tablespoons melted

Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon

Milk, 1/2 cup whole or as desired

Salt to taste

Cooking spray

Directions:

For topping: 2-1/2 cup mini marshmallows

Brown sugar, 1 cup Pecans, 1-1/4 cup chopped

Butter, 4 tablespoons melted Flour, all-purpose, 1/2 cup

Cook cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot of water until tender. First bring water to boil, then reduce to simmer. Drain and cool, then place in large bowl. Stir potatoes with sugar, butter, vanilla, milk, eggs and salt until smooth. Place mixture in greased 9-13” baking dish treated with cooking spray.

Meanwhile, mix flour, sugar, butter in a medium bowl, stir in pecans. Mixture should be coarse. Spread evenly over sweet potato mixture and top with marshmallows. Bake in an oven preheated to 350F about 30 minutes, or until golden.

K.S. Chandrasekhar, MD, FCC

…established his clinic over 20 years ago. He is well known in the community and trusted for his accurate diagnosis and compassionate care.

• Board certified in Cardiovascular Disease and Internal Medicine

• Executive Director the Heart Function Clinic, Low Risk Chest Pain Center and the Cardiac Rehabilitation Program for BayCare Winter Haven Hospital

• President of Medical Staff for BayCare Winter Haven Hospital

• Chairman of Cardiology for Lake Wales Medical Center

• Clinical Associate Professor, FSU College of Medicine

Ritu Aparajita, MD, MRCS (Ed), MBBS

A Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon who earned her MBBS at University of Delhi, India. She then completed a research fellowship at Columbia University Medical Center and a residency in general surgery at Staten Island University Hospital in New York, she completed her fellowship training in Vascular Surgery at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and St. Barnabas Medical Center in New Jersey. She’s co-authored more than two dozen journal articles. She was recently nominated for the American Medical Association Inspiration Award that recognizes physicians who have contributed to the achievements of women in the medical profession.

Cynthia Wolford, ARNP, FNP-C, CHFN

…is known for her passion to educate patients about Cardiovascular Disease. With additional heart failure certifications, she promptly identifies areas of concern, prescribing medications or lifestyle modifications to treat parients in all stages of heart failure.

• Board certified Family Nurse Practitioner

• Member of Staff for BayCare Winter Haven Hospital

Roan Cadavona, ARNP, FNP-C

…brings a high level of education and experience in Cardiac Catheterization, Electrophysiology and working in the Cardiovascular Progressive Care unit. He serves a vital role in providing patients with optimal cardiovascular care through counselling and screening, as well as disease prevention and management strategies.

• Board certified Family Nurse Practitioner

• Member of Staff for BayCare Winter Haven Hospital

Roan Cadavona, ARNP, FNP-C Nurse Practitioner

Ritu Aparajita, MD, MRCS (Ed), MBBS Vascular Surgeon

Kollagunta Chandrasekhar, MD, FACC Cardiologist

Cynthia Wolford, ARNP, FNP-C, CHFN Family Nurse Practitioner

Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus made a special visit to AdventHealth for Children, and they brought a team of nimble elves with them to help patients celebrate the holiday season. The annual Elf Rappel event featured Friends of the North Pole in the form of first responders from Orlando Fire Department and Orange County Fire Rescue Department. They brought fire trucks, tall ladders and rappelling gear to see children up close through the windows of AdventHealth for Children. This is the fourth year for the event.

photos by ADVENTHEALTH

POP QUIZ!

Celebrating Cervical Cancer Awareness Month With the Facts

Do you know what type of cancer used to be the leading cause of cancer death for women? The answer is cervical cancer. Thankfully, an increase in awareness and testing has led to a dramatic reduction in deaths from cervical cancer, but it is still a big enough threat that every woman should know how to protect herself from this highly preventable disease. Take our quiz and learn what you need to know to protect yourself, your family, and your friends!.

1. True or false?

The main causes of cervical cancer are the “high-risk types” of human papillomavirus, or HPV.

2. Which of the following are true about HPV?

A. It is so common that some doctors think it’s almost as common as the cold virus.

B. It can only be spread through skin-to-skin contact, or very rarely from mother to newborn.

C. It cannot be spread through toilet seats, hugging or holding hands, pools or hot tubs, sharing food or utensils, or being unclean.

D. All of the above

3. Which of the following are ways to prevent getting cervical cancer?

A. Get the HPV vaccination, for both females and males, before being sexually active, preferably between the ages of 9 and 12.

B. Get Pap tests done as recommended.

C. Getting regular screening tests with the HPV test.

D. All of the above

4. How often is it recommended that women age 21 and older get Pap tests to look for pre-cancers and cancer?

A. Every year

B. Every two years

C. Every three years

D. Every four years

5. When is it recommended for women to start getting the HPV test, which tests your cells that are collected for HPV, either in conjunction with or instead of Pap tests?

A. Age 21

B. Age 30

C. Age 45

D. Age 65

6. If a patient has a negative HPV test, what is the recommendation for how long until the patient needs another HPV or Pap test?

A. 3 years

B. 5 years

C. 7 years

D. 10 years

7. True or False?

There are many early symptoms of cervical cancer.

8. Which of the following are true about the HPV vaccine?

A. It provides close to 100% protection against infections and pre-cancers caused by certain types of HPV.

B. In use since 2006, over 100 studies have shown that it is safe and effective.

C. It is most effective when given to boys and girls between the ages of 9 and 12.

D. All of the above

9. True or false?

There are over 150 types of HPV, and since they can cause cancer of the cervix, throat, and genitals of both men and women, the HPV vaccine protects against many kinds of cancer.

10. True or false?

Cervical cancer can be cured easily when found early and treated, which is why routine testing is so important.

compiled by ERIKA ALDRICH / Information provided by The American Cancer Society and The Centers for Disease Control Prevention (CDC)

10. True. Cervical cancer is easily treated in its early stages.

9. True. HPV can cause many kinds of cancer, so it’s important for both girls and boys to get the vaccination.

8. D. All of the above. The HPV vaccine is almost 100 percent effective against the types of HPV that cause cancer, it is safe and effective, and it is most effective when given to girls and boys age 9 to 12.

6. B. 5 years. It is recommended that women with an HPV test that is negative for the virus can wait five years until needing another test.

5. B. Age 30. Doctors recommend women to start getting an HPV test starting at age 30, in conjunction with or instead of a Pap test.

4. C. Every three years. While the original recommendation was every year, it is now recommended that Pap tests negative for pre-cancerous cells can occur every three years.

7. False. There are rarely symptoms that accompany the early stages of cervical cancer. It is not until cervical cancer develops that a woman might notice abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge.

3. D. All of the above. Getting the vaccination, and getting regular screenings, whether with a Pap test or HPV test, can prevent cervical cancer or catch pre-cancerous cells before they turn into cancer.

2. D. All of the above. Since HPV is mainly spread through skinto-skin, it is most often spread through sexual contact.

1. True. Most cervical cancers are caused by a high-risk type of HPV.

ANSWERS:

After undergoing bariatric surgery with him, Hall tells his patients that they have joined a weight loss “family.” He and his team take great joy in seeing the major improvements that his patients make in their health and lifestyles, and always likes to see a patient experience a complete resolution of their obesity-related illnesses.

Hall sums up the benefits of bariatric surgery nicely, “Seeing their smile, the new smaller clothes that they have purchased, and noting their significantly shrinking medication lists are some of the best rewards as a weight loss surgeon. I’d like readers to understand that choosing bariatric surgery means embracing a new, healthier lifestyle in all aspects and requires effort from the patient, as Elizabeth’s story shows. Weight loss surgery is a “tool” to be used to achieve the goal of both increased quantity and quality of life and is highly effective when used the correct way.” HN

A Year for the History Books

JESSICA McDONALD, EDITOR jessica@centralfloridamediagroup.com

Witty and wildly imaginative minds have come up with just about every saying possible for 2020, so much so that even the word “2020” alone has become a euphemism for anything bad. Say what you want, but I think the nation has seen some astounding accomplishments this year. Top on that list: a vaccine for COVID-19.

As of December 22, the Food and Drug Administration has cleared two vaccinations for distribution. Last month, less than a year after the virus surfaced in the United States, we saw the rollout of those vaccines for first responders and government officials.

Locally, AdventHealth administered the first vaccines to frontline workers on December 16. The practitioners vaccinated voiced their confidence and encouraged others to follow suit once they are eligible.

In addition to vaccinating its own frontline team members, AdventHealth will distribute vaccines to other local healthcare systems, including HCA, Nemours Children’s Health System and Orlando Health. BayCare Medical Group also started vaccinations in the last two weeks of December.

“While we wish we could vaccinate everyone who wants this immediately, that just isn’t possible right now due to allotment restrictions,” says Nishant Anand, MD, executive vice president and chief medical officer for BayCare.

Meanwhile, residents and staff at Florida Presbyterian Homes senior community in Lakeland were among the first Polk County residents to get the vaccine. While it may still be some time before those not on the frontlines receive a vaccine, the progress made so far is promising and yet another reason to be hopeful as we start the new year. HN

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