Charleston Woman Magazine by Charleston Woman

VOL 2, NO 2

COMPLIMENTARY

CELEBRATING, MOTIVATING, AND EDUCATING WOMEN

Real

EXTREME MAKEOVERS We feature several makeovers in this issue – from personal health to landscapes!

CINDY McCLURE

of SOUTHERN COSMETIC LASER

In this Issue

From the Editor

Extreme Makeovers

www.charlestonwomanonline.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Lori Samples Duncan loriduncan86@gmail.com

MEDIA REPRESENTATIVE Lauri Truesdale info@woman2womanonline.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kennieth Allen Lori Samples Duncan Amy Stockwell Mercer Mandy Rivers Elaine Samples Mandy Summers Lauri Truesdale

COVER PHOTO Tammy Bevins Photography

DESIGN Melissa W. Morris

PHOTOGRAPHY Clark Berry Photography Lista’s Studio of Photography Patrick Mooney Photography Tammy Bevins Photography

2 Spring Has Arrived!

Events

3 What’s Happening?

Let’s Talk

4 5 6 7 8 10

Community Spotlight: Marcus Williams, author of The Stop Bullying Club Back2Health Physical Medicine Clinic West Ashley Native Wanting to Give Back to His Community Give Your Child a Brighter Future Better than Betty’s Chocolate Cake Cindy McClure of Southern Cosmetic Laser

12 14 16 20

Changing the Face of Diabetes, My Personal Diabetes Makeover Backyard Makeovers From Tired to Trendy: Transforming a Space Meet the Doctor – Dr. R. Jason J. Hehr

Health & Wellness

25 27 28 30

A “Monthly” Makeover 20/20 Vision Center Hormones and The Body Palmetto Primary Care Physicians Welcomes GI Specialist, Expands Specialty Care

Celebrating the Survivor in You!

32 Jessica Araya: A Breast Cancer Survivor

Business & Web Directory 35 Contact our advertisers Find us on facebook!

Charleston Woman Magazine Woman 2 Woman Publishing (803) 785-4475 602 Northwood Road Lexington, SC 29072

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or omissions. No part of this book may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. © 2012

Personal Note

36 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Motherhood

Don’t miss our Makeovers! Starting on page 12 – Spring is the perfect time for makeovers! www.charlestonwomanonline.com

his issue of Charleston Woman is all about changes! Who doesn’t love a good makeover? We recently moved into a new office are sharing our newly designed space with you.

Happy Spring!

We had an opportunity to meet Dr. Hehr and his staff this issue. Here is a previous Carolina Sting Ray who made over his life by continuing his education at MUSC. I hope you enjoy reading about it as much as we enjoyed meeting him. It’s summer time and since we are lucky enough to live in the south where the weather is so good to us for so many months, we wanted to share some backyard makeovers as well. Because so many of us are choosing to stay close to home and invest our vacation money into a “stay-cation,” We thought we would share Midlands Landscaping with you. Call them for a backyard kitchen or just a revitalization of what you already have. The Survivor section in this issue continues to celebrate the survivor in you! Jessica Araya, our featured survivor, has touched many lives with her inspirational journey. After cashing in her life insurance, Jessica traveled the world thinking she was going to die. Instead she found love on her journey and came home to a clean scan! Congrats to Jessica on her clean bill of health and her new husband! I had a chance to meet West Ashley High School student Marcus Williams, author of The Stop Bullying Club. This book is intended for elementary age students encouraging them not to resort to violence and beginning a dialogue about bullying early. What a genuine young man. We expect many great things from Marcus in the future. It is always our goal to bring you the best of the best in Greater Charleston. Let our advertisers know that you heard about them from the new Charleston Woman Magazine. It is support of our vision that allows this issue of Charleston Woman to be complimentary to you. Have a Happy Mother’s and Father’s Day! We look forward to our “Back to School” issue coming Summer 2012. Your friend,

Lori Samples Duncan Editor-in-Chief

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Women

Psalms 51:10 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

Events

What’s HAPPENING? 2012 Charleston Farmers Market Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Marion Square

The Charleston Farmers Market is available each Saturday in the beautiful Marion Square, between King and Meeting Streets at the edge of Calhoun Street in the Upper King Street Design District. The park at Marion Square has long been the center of festive activities and is the perfect tranquil setting for the Farmers Market. Nestled beneath beautiful trees with plenty of room for families to gather and children to play, the Farmers Market comes to life each Saturday morning and offers an abundance of the freshest local produce, shrimp, plants, herbs and cut flowers. While strolling the Charleston Farmers Market, a delicious breakfast, brunch or lunches are available while listening to a variety of live entertainment. The Farmers Market also offers an amazing assortment of juried arts and crafts, providing the best selection and most talented local artisans.

Arthur Smith Tournament – Saltwater Sportfishing Event May 17 – 19 Charleston Maritime Center

• Wisdom Teeth • Dental Implants • Facial Cosmetic • Anesthesia • Facial Injury • Oral Pathology

(843) 767-3310 5401 Netherby Lane Suite 500 North Charleston

The Arthur Smith Sportfishing Tournament returns to Charleston! The most anticipated fishing tournament will take place at the Charleston Maritime Center. Operated by the Arthur Smith Foundation, the tournament has a mission to raise funds for marine conservation. With various categories, from the harbor to offshore divisions, several species of fish will be eligible for big prizes. The Arthur Smith Tournament champions the everyday sportfishing enthusiast, so no matter what your background is in the sport, you are qualified to participate in this legendary event. Mark your calendars and visit the website below to register. If your company is interested in sponsorship, please email contact@smithgroupltd.com for a menu of opportunities. www.arthursmithfishing.com

Dee Norton Lowcountry Children’s Center Fashion Show May 19, 5 – 7 p.m. URS Center for the Performing Arts

Calling all fashionistas and style mavens. The event will feature a fashion show with over 50 complete, unique looks from Freshfields Village clothing retailers, accompanied by hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction. Rosanna Krekel of The Fashion Group International will be the host for the evening. Participating boutiques include Coastal Palms Island Apparel, J. McLaughlin, Papaya Island, Pink Boulevard, The Old Rangoon, The Resort Shop, The Spot, Tommy Bahama presented by Palmetto Island and Vineyard Vines presented by Coastal Palms. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. All proceeds will benefit the Dee Norton Lowcountry Children’s Center, which provides hope and healing to abused children and families. Tickets can be purchased on the Dee Norton website or by calling (843) 723-3600. Tickets include bites from Newton Farms Catering; champagne, beer and wine will be available for purchase at a cash bar offered by Java Java. www.dnlcc.org

Memorial Day Weekend at Freshfields May 25, 26, and 27, 6 – 9 p.m.

Memorial Day Weekend is the unofficial kickoff to the summer season, so kick up your heels at the Memorial Day Weekend Concert Series. Enjoy the sounds of country, classic rock, beach music and more on the Village Green from 6 to 9 p.m. each evening. Food and beverages will be available for purchase at this free, family friendly event. Guests are encouraged to bring a blanket or beach chairs. This event is sponsored by the Town of Kiawah. www.FreshfieldsVillage.com

Outdoor Family Movies at Freshfields Village Wednesday nights, 8:30 p.m. Freshfields Village

Starlight Cinemas returns to Freshfields Village every Wednesday night beginning May 30 with screening of top family movie hits on the Village Green. The series will begin at 8:30 p.m. every Wednesday through the end of August (there will be no showing Wed., July 4). Numerous blockbusters from 2011 are scheduled for the series, including animated, true stories, revamped classics and more. The Starlight Cinema Series is free, and guests are encouraged to bring a blanket or chairs. The series is sponsored by the Town of Seabrook Island. www.FreshfieldsVillage.com

www.hehroralsurgery.com www.charlestonwomanonline.com

Community Spotlight

MARCUS WILLIAMS author of The Stop Bullying Club by Lori Samples Duncan photography by Tammy Bevins Photography

n our last issue we featured an article titled “An Era of Meanness,” which talked about some of the effects bullying is having on our society. We wanted to educate adults on how cyber bullying is affecting our youth. I recently had an opportunity to visit a young man at West Ashley High School who is making a difference by educating young readers about bullying. Marcus Williams’ interest in writing began in third grade when he wrote a series of short stories, one of which was titled “I saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus.” He also wrote a superhero book that he called The Adventures of Marcus Man. However, it was the original art of Elizabeth Pendergast at West Ashley High School that gave Marcus the idea to write The Stop Bullying Club. What started out as a project for entrepreneurship class turned into something greater when Marcus visited elementary schools and listened to the stories of children who have been or are being bullied. Marcus was struck by the violence some students experience. Marcus is originally from New York City. He grew up in Queens New York from a “kinda rough” neighborhood. Marcus says his parents, “wanted to start fresh and get us away from some of the roughness.” His family has been in South Carolina since Marcus was in the third grade, so he considers it home now. He loves basketball and tennis, and says playing sports helps him get his mind off of things that worry normal teenagers. Marcus’ most recent venture is called Poor Robbie. Poor Robbie is a dumpster diver who meets a genie and instead of wishing for a better life, he wishes for revenge. At the end of the book,

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Women

Poor Robbie’s taste for revenge leaves him with less than he had when he found the genie, and it includes a glossary with words to know and a pop quiz. We asked Marcus if he had any words of wisdom and his response was: “I would say that violence is definitely not the answer. When children fight, it becomes natural to them. Tell your teachers, parents, and any adult to talk to their children about bullying early, so they can be prepared and know how to deal with it if it happens to them.” “Anyone can be a bully. I was in a situation where I was bullied and I was even the bully once, though I didn’t realize it at the time,” admits Marcus a bit shamefully. This very well spoken young man shared with us that even grownups can be bullies. Marcus has been accepted to George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia, where he plans to attend college in the fall. Marcus plans to continue writing children’s books and hopes to start his own publishing business. We are expecting great things from Marcus in the future! We wish you much luck and continued success. Purchase the book at www.bookemon.com.

Marcus Williams is the perfect example of a student that has applied my philosophy of teaching. I inspire my students to think creatively and to look at problems in our community as a opportunity to make a difference in the world we live today. Not only is he making a difference in our world today, but in our community! He has positively impacted many local elementary schools by giving The Stop Bullying Club presentations and conducting book readings. He also has reached a much larger audience by embracing the social network with a Facebook Fan page: www.facebook. com/TheStopBullyingClub — Eva W. Rutiri, M.Ed (West Ashley High School)

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by Dr. Jens Franzen, DC

would like to introduce myself by telling you about my personal experience. Give me 2 minutes!

In the last 15 years I have relocated, even if it is just a few miles, more than a handful of times. At the same time I have had new responsibilities. Working out has always been a stress reliever for me, but with less time to devote to the things I loved my energy dropped. Last year, I a realized that my workload escalated together with my stress levels and that I was personally feeling the effects of stress on my health. So I took my own STRESS TEST AND FAILED. My pH was slightly acidic, and my blood pressure didn’t rise when I stood up. This is a test for adrenal gland exhaustion. This gland is called the stress gland and secretes 50 hormones that can play a roll in PMS and menopause, influence your energy, sleep, digestion, and weight. That was enough for me. I immediately placed myself in my own clinic’s schedule so I would “fit in” the time to take care of my health and my body. I did the ALCAT test since common everyday problems like pain in the neck, shoulders, low back, headaches, aching joint, eczema, sleep troubles, fatigue, hormone problems, obesity, moodiness, digestive disorders have been linked to food sensitivity and chronic activation of the immune system. I also bought all the necessary tools to work out at home; I started taking more care of my diet and put myself on one of our holistic

prescription, “Stress and Adrenal Support”. In a week I noticed that my strategy was working, I had more energy and I was sleeping better. If YOU are suffering from any of these symptoms, let me know! And for those of you who think you are doing just fine and stress is not a factor, you still need to be checked to see if your body is been hurt by stress or external influences. When will you discover that stress has taken its toll? At your first heart attack, when your cholesterol just won’t go down, when you are taking 6-8 medications a day, when you have diabetes? Don’t kid your self, I didn’t. It takes courage to face the fact you might need to make some changes to regain your energy, youth and vitality. Call Back2Health Physical Medicine Clinic for a free consultation to see if we can help you. We are an integrated physical medicine clinic with a team of doctors. I will make sure that we spend whatever time is necessary to find out how we can help. The worst thing that could happen is that you keep on putting it off and you will never find out what we could have done for you. We have saved a limited number of appointment slots for the cities in the area so call as soon as possible to find out if we have availability. Call Dr. Jens Franzen, D.C. at (843) 475-7037. www.charlestonwomanonline.com

Let’s Talk

West Ashley Native Wanting to

GIVE BACK TO HIS COMMUNITY by Lauri Truesdale

ally Burbage Republican candidate for SC Senate District 41 plans to rely on the experience he’s gained owning and operating a small business in Charleston County to guide his service as Senator. Wally and the rest of the Burbages have deep Charleston roots. Wally grew up in Charleston, attended public schools including Middleton High School and graduated from the Citadel. Wally and his wife Suzanne have one daughter, Maggie.

Wally Burbage & Associates 826 Johnnie Dodds Blvd. Mt. Pleasant, SC (843) 881-1921 wallyburbage@allstate.com

He has spent his entire adult life as a contributor to Charleston’s economy from working on the docks right out of college to the West Ashley and Mt. Pleasant Allstate franchises he operates today. This experience makes him uniquely qualified to deal with the excessive spending, lack of prioritization and inefficiency in Columbia. Burbage stated, “I’m probably the only candidate in the race whose friends and neighbors were surprised when they heard I was running. Politics has never been something I was very involved in or even talked about. There are those who will tell you that people like me shouldn’t run for office because ‘we don’t understand politics.’ I disagree. I think the problems facing our state government aren’t going to be solved sending more politicians to the capital.” Burbage continued, “From a regular persons perspective the answer seems simple. If you

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want less politics in Columbia stop sending politicians. If you had a boat with a small hole in the bottom causing it to leak, the last thing you’d do would be drill more holes. When you send people to Columbia with political agendas to push, political favors to pay back and political scores to settle how can you possibly think you’re going to end up with better government.” Burbage concluded, “I’ve lived my life in the real world of business. The idea of spending less than I make isn’t a challenge for me it’s a way of life. Prioritizing what I have to spend money on over, what would be nice but I can do without, is essential if I want my company to survive. I think its time to run government that way too. The residents of SC Senate District 41, which covers West Ashley, parts of James and Johns Islands, and also part a Dorchester County deserve no less.” Visit WallyBurbage.com to learn more.

Women

1655-B Savannah Hwy. Charleston, SC (843) 766-1221 wallburbage2@allstate.com

Auto, Home, Financial Services, and More

Let’s Talk photo by Lista’s Studio of Photography

Kennieth Allen As a result of therapies and early intervention, I am delighted to say that I am a graduate of Florida State University who speaks four different languages. The key to helping children with disabilities is to get help early. Early intervention can maximize the development potential of infants and toddlers with disabilities within the context of their daily routines and activities. It can increase their potential to live independently. Kinder Kids provides Early Intervention Services, including occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech and language services, service coordination, nutrition services, and special instructions. The purpose of Kinder Kids is to provide comprehensive services

Give Your Child a BRIGHTER Future

by Kennieth Allen

inder Kids was birthed in July, 2009 by Kennieth Allen, with a passion to help children that were born with developmental delays. I was born a two pound preemie and my parents were told that I would never be able to live independently. and family support to medically fragile, developmentally delayed, physically challenged, and behaviorally disordered children and their families by providing services that evoke maximum potential and foster the development of intellectual and social confidence. One client states that her “son’s world has been turned right-sideup since early intervention and therapy began.” Kinder Kids is excited to offer its services to the Aiken, Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Berkeley, Calhoun, Charleston, Dorchester, Edgefield, Lexington, Newberry, Orangeburg, Richland, and Saluda counties. The organization is dedicated to improving the quality of life for children with special needs, developmental delays and disor-

ders. Kinder Kids motto, ”Making a world a little kinder one child at a time,” is the trademark of the company. Kinder Kids provides comprehensive services and family support to medically fragile, developmentally delayed, physically challenged, and behaviorally disordered children and their families by providing services that evoke maximum potential and foster the development of intellectual and social confidence.

For more information about Kinder Kids, please contact the Aiken Office at (803) 226-0525; Charleston Office at (843) 452-5933 or by e-mail at kinderkidscsra@aol.com. Visit us online at www.KinderKidscsra.com. Make a difference in your child’s life today!

The key to helping children with disabilities is to get help early.

Kinder Kids Academy • Translation/Interpretat Early Intervention • Service Coordination

Physical Therapy • Occupation Therapy • Speech Therapy

AIKEN (803) 226-0525 P.O. Box 5158 Aiken, SC 29804

“Making the world a little bit KINDER one kid at a time”

CHARLESTON (843) 452-5933

P.O. Box 736 Summerville, SC 29484

www.kinderkidscsra.com www.charlestonwomanonline.com

Let’s Talk

Better than Betty’s

CHOCOLATE CAKE

by Mandy Rivers

have maintained for quite some time that one could not duplicate the moist, light consistency of a boxed chocolate cake mix in a homemade recipe. I would see a beautiful recipe in a magazine or cookbook, try it and always be disappointed with the results (too dry, too dense, etc.). So I gave up and resigned myself to the Betty Crocker box mixes, figuring I was willing to sacrifice flavor for great texture.

With a few tweaks for flavor’s sake, I eventually landed on a version of the recipe that I thought was The One.

Mandy Rivers Then I saw a recipe online that looked right. I tried it. The texture was exactly what I had been looking for. With a few tweaks for flavor’s sake, I eventually landed on a version of the recipe that I thought was The One.

I celebrated and bragged and happy-danced and boasted for several weeks. This resulted in a whole lot of eye rolling from my friends (whatever, girls, this is my equivalent of running the Boston Marathon) and a whole lot of “buy one more pound of cocoa and I’ll strangle you in your sleep” from my husband.

Then I was faced with another issue: frosting. I couldn’t release My Precious without an equally delightful frosting. Though I know I may not have many followers in this camp, I’m not a fan of traditional buttercream (you know, the sugary birthday cake variety that gets a crunchy crusting after a day or so and is so sugary sweet it literally gives you a toothache?). I experimented with a few chocolate buttercreams but wasn’t wowed. I then tried my hand at a whipped ganache but was perplexed with the issue of refrigeration – it being made from cream. Refrigerating (which I thought was necessary,

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though maybe I’m wrong) resulted in a stiff truffle-like layer sitting atop the cake. I experimented with recipes using cocoa and some using melted chocolate but found flaws (tiny as they may have been) with each. I’d seen a few recipes that included corn syrup and thought perhaps it may be the key to achieving the sheen and spreadablility I was after. I was planning to spend the weekend experimenting with recipes that included a combination of all the varieties I’d tried but did one last search online to see if one already existed. I stumbled across

Bobby Flay’s Creamy Chocolate Frosting recipe and became very hopeful (actually I squealed like a poked piglet). It contained the combination of ingredients that I had been contemplating: cocoa and melted chocolate plus a generous amount of corn syrup. I tweaked it a bit (pink sea salt... really Bobby?) but eventually arrived at something I was excited about! Introducing Better Than Betty’s Chocolate Cake with Creamy Chocolate Frosting! Find more of Mandy’s recipes at

www.mandyrivers.com

Recipe • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour • ¾ cup cocoa powder • 2 teaspoons baking soda • 1 teaspoon baking powder • ¾ teaspoon salt • ½ cup oil • 2 cups sugar • 2 large eggs • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1 cup buttermilk • 1 cup strongly brewed coffee Grease and flour baking pan(s) and set aside. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium-sized bowl sift together flour, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder and salt; set aside. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat together oil and sugar until fluffy, about 1 minute. Beat in eggs and vanilla until combined, about 2 minutes. Beat in buttermilk and coffee until combined. Reduce mixer speed to low and gradually beat in flour mixture until just combined. Batter will be very thin. Pour batter into prepared pan(s)* and bake per the following or until the cake no longer jiggles in the pan and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. DO NOT OVER-BAKE. Cupcakes: Fill paper lined cupcake tins half full. Bake 12-15 minutes. Makes approximately 36 cupcakes. 8-9” Round: Fills three pans. Do not try to fit all of the batter into two. Bake 20-25 minutes. Bundt or 13×9 Pans: Fill pan 2/3 full. Use excess batter to make cupcakes (I usually make 1 – 13×9 cake and 12 cupcakes with one batch of batter). Bake 35-45 minutes. Cool in pan for 10 minutes then remove from pan – do not allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans or they will be difficult to remove. If you need to handle the cakes beyond turning them out, use waxed paper as the cake will stick to your hands. *Sorry about the extra batter issue. My math skills are not good enough to reduce the recipe.

Creamy Chocolate Frosting • 1 ¼ cups (2 ½ sticks) salted butter, at room temperature

• 1 cup powdered sugar • ¾ cup cocoa powder • ¾ cup light corn syrup • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, melted and slightly cooled

In a food processor, process the butter, sugar and cocoa until smooth, about 30 seconds, scraping the sides of the bowl as needed. Add the corn syrup and vanilla and process until just combined, 5 to 10 seconds. Scrape the sides of the bowl, and then add the melted chocolate and pulse until smooth and creamy, 10 to 15 seconds. This recipe makes enough frosting for cupcakes, a two-layer cake, a sheet cake or a bundt cake. If making a three-layer cake, you may want to double the recipe or try the Milk Chocolate Buttercream Frosting recipe below for the middle layers to ensure you have enough frosting for the entire cake (the milk chocolate buttercream makes for a nice contrast in color, texture and flavor).

Milk Chocolate Buttercream Frosting • 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter, at room temperature

• 2 ½ cups powdered sugar • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 4 ounces milk chocolate, melted and cooled to room temperature

Whip the butter on medium-high speed for 5 minutes, stopping to scrape the bowl once or twice. Reduce the speed to low and gradually add the powdered sugar. Once all of the powdered sugar is incorporated, add the vanilla and increase the speed to medium-high, mixing until incorporated. Slowly add the melted chocolate and whip at medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes, scraping the bowl as needed to incorporate all of the chocolate.

www.charlestonwomanonline.com

ometimes when I speak to people about career choice, I get the idea that they would rather be doing something completely different. That is not the case with Cindy McClure. Warm and inviting, she is a hometown girl who graduated from the Medical University of South Carolina with a Masters in Nursing and University of South Carolina Columbia with a Post Masters in Primary Care. CertiďŹ ed as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Cindy has over 18 years experience as a Nurse Practitioner and over 22 years as a Registered Nurse. In addition to serving as Director of Nursing Program at USC, Cindy currently owns and operates Southern Cosmetic Laser â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and she is passionate about her work.

Cindy McClure of

SOUTHERN COSMETIC LASER by Elaine Samples

photography by Tammy Bevins Photography

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Let’s Talk

‘There are a couple of small offices in the area that offer something similar to what I have to offer, but there is really no one close that offers everything that we offer.’ After child number three when she was thrown into menopause at age 31 (yes, you read that right), Cindy was ready for a new challenge and a new adventure. “Going through menopause,” says Cindy, “gave me some ideas for things that I wasn’t too excited about.” And thus was her inspiration for aesthetics. After training, Cindy began aesthetic work at the office where she served as Nurse Practitioner at the time, but it wasn’t long before she realized that “medical patients and aesthetic pa-

tients didn’t necessarily mesh well together.” That was seven years ago. So, Cindy decided to branch out and go solo for her aesthetic practice. She opened an office in St. George where she had clientele from an established medical practice. Since St. George is quite regional and Cindy’s offices are easily accessible from I-95, she would see clients as far as Savannah and Myrtle Beach. Cindy soon realized that there were many people in the Summerville area who were making the trek to

St. George. To make it easier on her patients and since there was an intense population of people needing her services, she opened Southern Cosmetic Laser in Summerville in September 2011. The office is open ﬁve to six days a week, and evening appointments are available. “There are a couple of small offices in the area that offer something similar to what I have to offer, but there is really no one close that offers everything that we offer,” relates Cindy. The office offers rejuvenation therapy, laser skin treat-

ments, Sclerotherapy, facials, waxing services, make up applications, Botox, Juvederm, Microdermabrasion, and massage therapy. Talk about a one stop shop! Sounds like the perfect pampering day to me. Cindy loves “making men and women feel better about themselves. Because it’s all about quality of life.” And we happen to agree. Why not give Cindy and her team a try? You can ﬁnd out more at www.southerncosmeticlaser.com.

We Believe Beauty Shouldn’t Cost a Fortune

Southern Cosmetic Laser Laser Hair Removal • Laser Skin Treatments • Skin Tightening • Botox Wrinkle Reduction • Microdermabrasion • Body Waxing • Laser Tattoo Removal Chemical Peels • Weight Management • Leg Vein Treatments • Juvederm

www.southerncosmeticlaser.com (843) 277-2240 267-C Treeland Drive, Ladson

(843) 563-9980 100 Ridge Street, George www.charlestonwomanonline.com

Extreme Makeovers

Changing the Face of Diabetes,

MY PERSONAL DIABETES MAKEOVER by Amy Stockwell Mercer

he one thing I liked about diabetes when I was a teenager was that it was invisible. On the outside I looked just like everybody else and I wanted to keep it that way. I was ashamed of having diabetes. In my teenage mind, diabetes was an old person’s disease that caused blindness, amputations and an early death. This was 1985, and Mary Tyler Moore was the only face on diabetes magazines. As a 14-year-old girl who loved Michael Jackson and Billy Idol, Mary Tyler Moore had nothing to offer me. So I kept diabetes in the closet. I was proud that I could camouflage myself, and that no one noticed when I slipped off to the bathroom to test my blood sugars or to do a shot. But living this dual life was lonely. photo by Clark Berry Photography

As my self-confidence grew over the years, I started letting my disease out of hiding.

As my self-confidence grew over the years, I started letting my disease out of hiding. I told the boys that I dated about diabetes soon after I met them and was surprised when no one thought it was a big deal. I began to test my blood sugar in front of my friends, and was relieved when no one blinked an eye. There were still no positive role models in the media, but the acceptance from my friends was changing the way I thought about diabetes.

Amy Stockwell Mercer 12

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Then I got married and started thinking about becoming a mother and everything changed.

I learned about the importance of tight blood sugar control during pregnancy, and decided it was time to make my disease visible. My doctors told me that wearing an insulin pump would allow me to manage my blood sugars during pregnancy more effectively than multiple daily injections. I’d always said no to the pump before because I hated the idea of wearing a piece of medical equipment on my body. But I also had been terrified by the movie Steel Magnolias (Julia Robert’s character Shelby has type 1 diabetes and dies after having her child.), and wanted to do everything I could to have a healthy baby and to be a healthy mom. I decided my pregnancy would be the perfect time to wear an insulin pump because my body would be changing, and I needed to value health over vanity. But I hated the pump. For the first time since I’d been diagnosed, wearing a pump made my disease visible. After three days, I yanked the thing off. “Forget it!” I said to my husband, shoving the expensive piece of equipment back into its box. I would maintain tight control the

old-fashioned way because I was ashamed of my pump. I didn’t want people to stare. I didn’t want to look different. It took becoming a mother for me to realize that different isn’t bad. I now tell my kids that differences make us interesting. It took me another seven years before I was willing to try the pump again, and

we do about it. Do we see a possible gift in what we’ve been handed and perhaps use this challenge to develop greater strength and courage, or do we only see that we’ve been injured?” I knew it was time for me to look beyond my injuries. I realized that without diabetes, I wouldn’t have this story to tell. This story

Reaching out to the diabetes community has also helped me change the way I see myself as a woman with diabetes. while I’m no less vain, I’m learning to be okay with my now visible disease. In order to accept myself as a woman with chronic illness, I need to accept the “good” and the “bad.” Reaching out to the diabetes community has also helped me change the way I see myself as a woman with diabetes. A story written by Riva Greenberg, a woman with diabetes, was particularly inspiring. She said, “When life throws us a curve ball like diabetes, or any other challenge, it’s up to us how we choose to see it and what

Flawless at 40...

that has turned into a book, The Smart Woman’s Guide to Diabetes, a how-to guide with the kind of stories I’ve wanted to hear for years. My book is filled with stories from real women who are living well with diabetes. Women who, like me, have struggled to accept the good and bad parts of diabetes. Women who are learning to embrace, not disguise this life with diabetes.

Learn more about living with diabetes at www.thesmartwomansguidetodiabetes.com.

THANKS TO SOUTHERN COSMETIC LASER! As a business owner in the marketing and media industry I have to keep my best face forward. Southern Cosmetic Laser is my secret weapon for ageless, healthy skin. I owe it all to Cindy McClure, SCL owner and highly credentialed nurse practitioner who taught me that a little Botox between the eyes and along the brow goes a long way for a naturally smooth look. And thanks Molly Kister, the world’s best esthetician for eliminating my onset of adult acne and giving me clear skin again! By the way, take a close look at the healthy mineral makeup I’m wearing also available at Southern Cosmetic Laser. Julie Goff is great at color matching and applying makeup for any occasion. Get all this and more in a gorgeous relaxing European setting. That’s the beauty of Southern Cosmetic Laser! Raquel Bynum, CEO Mpressions Marketing, Media & Events Southern Cosmetic Laser’s Biggest Fan!

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BACKYARD

Makeovers

by Elaine Samples

ince the invention of HGTV, it feels like I have seen really amazing backyards pop up in the most random of places. And since your home is your sanctuary, why not? Mr. Paul Romanstine of Midlands Landscape has been transforming backyards into mini vacation spots for 18 years, and we sat down with him to ask him some questions about the process. The overall number of people having makeovers has increased in recent years, as people are staying home more. As the economy has taken a plunge and many home values have dropped, people are opting to improve existing living space rather than buying a new home or traveling as much as they did “when times were better.” When considering a backyard makeover, planning and design is crucial. Midlands Landscape will meet with you and devise a plan based on your long-term goals in order to best ensure that things don’t have to be redone in a few years. They also work with clients to perform the upgrades in stages to help them save money in the future as a project changes and develops. “We want to know where the client wants to end up, and we determine the most cost and time effective way of achieving their goals and desires,” says Paul. At Midlands Landscape, they can help you landscape your current space for aesthetics, or they can even install a shiny new outdoor kitchen, where they have installed

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up to twenty kitchens in a year. An outdoor kitchen gives you the benefit of having all your equipment on the outside, so that you don’t have to, for instance, transport food after you wash it in the sink. It cuts down on the back and forth trek to the house, and it also makes for a cozy getaway for those cool spring and fall nights when you just want to take in the cool night air. As for upkeep after the project is finished, Paul and his team can design a plan with more hardscape and less grass, which means less upkeep for you, the homeowner. Or they can go with more green, if that is what you desire. Either way, they stick with low maintenance products that do not require a lot of work to keep them looking nice. A backyard makeover can take anywhere from a week up to a month, depending on the overall design and scope of the project. Keeping in mind that time is the most precious of commodities, Paul and his team strive to meet the needs of their clients in the most cost and time effective way possible. A new backyard can make all the difference in your home. Midlands Landscape gets plenty of feedback from clients who find a new love for their backyard after a makeover. Our recent makeover recipient

Extreme Makeovers

Before had this to say about their new backyard oasis from Midlands Landscape: “I used to be embarrassed to have people see my backyard. My privacy fence was as much about keeping people out as it was keeping things in. Now when I walk out the backdoor and see what Paul and his crew did to my backyard, I feel proud to call this mine. We find ourselves enjoying our time outdoors more and grilling is something we are doing practically nightly on our new Backyard kitchen. We purchased furniture from Tropic Aire to make our oasis complete. Even my neighbors were excited for us. We can’t wait to have them over for some summer parties in our new backyard! Thank you Midlands Landscape and Tropic Aire. Oh and that sparkling blue water is compliments of Sapphire Pools. See you in the Sun!” Call Midlands Landscape today for a free consultation at (803) 356-8080 or visit www.midlandslandscape.com.

Check out the Charleston Woman Magazine facebook page for more makeover photos!

GARAGE Makeover Before

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(803) 356-8080

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After

Attic Attack transformed this once chaotic garage into an organized space that can actually be used for its original purpose! Thankfully, their services are not limited to just garages. They can help you reclaim your attic, basement, closets, shed, and other storage spaces. For more examples of their work, visit them online at www.atticattack.org.

www.charlestonwomanonline.com

tired to trendy TRANSFORMING A SPACE

From

by Mandy Summers

love a challenge! When Lori Duncan, publisher of Woman 2 Woman magazines, approached me about renovating an old house and making it into their new office, I was excited at the prospect! We met at the property and did a walk-thru and discussed some of the challenges we would face in the transformation process. The punch list was lengthy; there were repairs to be made, items to be removed and many additions that would be necessary. As with many of my clients, there were time and budget constraints. She needed to move into her new office as quickly as possible and didn’t want to break the bank doing so. We needed to form an action plan and come up with a realistic budget. We decided that the reception area and Lori’s office would be Phase I, the conference and sales offices would be Phase II and the rest left to Phase III. We needed everything – office furniture, seating for the waiting area, draperies for the windows, rugs for the floors and artwork and accessories throughout. Lori wanted the office to be a reflection of the magazine – something that she could be proud of, somewhere that she and her team would be inspired to work and that her advertisers and amazing feature women would love to come and share their stories. I needed to devise a space that was not only functional, but creative and fun. We were two determined, stubborn and motivated ladies with a 2 week time frame!

We began with the walls, they desperately needed repainting! Selecting the right paint color is a great way to change the look and feel of a room, especially when you have

limited funds. In both residential and commercial projects, it is critical to develop an overall color scheme, one that will flow nicely throughout the various spaces in your home or office. Since this was not a complete renovation job, we needed to “make friends” with what was already there – the existing honey colored hardwood floors, the brown and beige laminate kitchen countertops and the fireplace with the burnt orange brick were all staying. Because the house is a simple brick rancher, built in the 1970s; I decided to go retro and funky. I selected an overall palette that would incorporate multiple shades of vivid gold, deep orange, chocolate brown, lime green and aqua blue. Kevin Strickland, our trusted painter, came to the rescue. He repainted every wall

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and all the trim in a few short days – thank you!! When you entered the house before, you were immediately greeted by a dull and boring fireplace. To spruce it up, we added a hand-hewned rustic mantel, provided and installed by Ron Rader of Antebellum Restorations. (Ron’s unlimited sources of architectural pieces, knowledge of construction and installation processes, and general willingness to help, have been instrumental on countless occasions). Two bold, signed and numbered abstract prints by Elizabeth Firehill, were provided and hung side by side directly into the brick by M. Gallery Interiors. They were spaced far enough apart to accommodate a non-traditionaI arrangement I designed using

curly twigs, dried pods and semicircular white vase. The colors incorporated in the arrangement serve to contrast the orange in the brick, pull out the accent colors in the artwork and compliment the fabric on the chairs situated below. We placed two small-scale floral chairs on the diagonal directly in front of the hearth. The funky gold and cream fabric flowers compliment the round metal coffee table in hammered silver. The table’s removable lid also provides great storage. It is situated atop a grey and beige round woven natural jute rug. All these elements combine to give a striking, edgy and interesting array of textures when you enter Woman 2 Woman’s lobby. The wall color in the lobby and reception area is Sherwin Williams

Extreme Makeovers

Before Because the house is a simple brick rancher, built in the 1970s; I decided to go retro and funky. Before

Check out the Charleston Woman Magazine facebook page for more photos!

Before

Artisan Tan, a wonderful neutral. Standard rods and ready-made drapes were purchased to keep us within budget. As is often the case, when custom treatments are not an option, you have to improvise to get the look and feel you want. To coordinate with the coffee table, and future light fixtures, brushed nickel rods with square finials were selected. We had to add silver rings with clips to the tops of all the drapery panels to get them to the exact length we needed, since they didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make them with the ideal drop. I chose drapes that have a large scale gold and cream floral fabric to coordinate beautifully with what we used in the lobby. A rectangular shaped sisal rug was chosen to ground the reception area and add yet another texture to the mix. It is a rich deep orange color that works with the brick in the adjacent area and helps the colors flow seamlessly. With so much color popping in the drapes, artwork and rug, a neutral linen slipcover sectional was chosen. Trendy throw pillows in gold, cream and brown Ikat fabric were chosen to give it an updated look. (Ikat (pronounced ee- kat) fabrics have the pattern tied and dyed in the yarn before the fabric is woven.)

To add to our seating, we threw in a tufted club chair in a bold multicolored floral. It incorporates all our existing colors and introduces the color aqua, which we chose for the paint color in the adjacent sales offices. Even though the sales center will be Phase II, I needed to make sure I devised a color scheme now. It was important that the painting be completed before all the furniture was installed to make life easier and that the color chosen, Sherwin Williams Halcyon Green, would flow from one area of the office to the other. The stain on the sofa and chair legs do not match, but they compliment one another. The darker finish on the legs of the upholstered pieces was selected to work with the espresso finish on the new bow-front reception desk. This gives everything a more contemporary feel. (Everything does not need to match exactly in a room, often times it becomes cold and boring if it does). We placed a silk bamboo tree behind the bow-front reception desk to soften the corner and hide some not so perfect wall boards. Silks plants need no mantainence and are a great addition to any space. M. Gallery provided and hung two abstract prints by Elizabeth Firehill. The colors www.charlestonwomanonline.com

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HOW PAINTING Can Give Your Space

A Fresh Face

Once and awhile, everything needs a bit of a facelift. Even our homes. Whether it is changing the pillows on the sofa or adding a pool, home improvement can be a daunting task. We talked with Kevin Strickland of Strickland Painting Services about putting a fresh coat of paint on your walls, the ultimate fun facelift for a room. Kevin suggested several things to consider to make painting your room run smoothly, but also stressed that “preparation is key.” • Choose a color scheme. • Decide on your preferred texture (Kevin suggests using eggshell instead of flat for a kids room because it is washable. He also suggests that you do not use flat paint for kitchens and bathrooms.) • Use an oil based primer and always prime between extravagant or dark colors. • Make sure you get everything out of the way and cover furniture and electronics with light plastic. • If you take down pictures, sand walls, fill nail holes and spot prime those spots. (This is important because dry sheetrock mud absorbs paint.) • Use a flat oil primer, especially for water stains and crayon marks. (Kevin recommends Kilz spray) • Always give the room two coats of paint. First coat should be completely dry before the second coat is applied. • For the second coat, paint one wall at a time, keeping all edges as wet as possible so that they dry together. Happy Painting, everyone! Sounds like a lot of work doesn’t it? If you really want to do it right, call the professional himself and enjoy your new walls!

Kevin Strickland

Extreme Makeovers looked like she painted them to go into our room. The art pieces were stacked one directly over the other to draw your eye upward. M. Gallery also provided a large sculptural gold vase. It was placed directly on the floor beside the chair. I gathered long, spirally gold and red vines in a loose arrangement to provide visual interest at a lower height. Rowin Partners owner, Rob Winchester, was instrumental in helping us obtain just the right office furniture to suit our needs. Lori, Rob and I met and discussed our style and budget requirements and he recommended an awesome contemporary line of furniture that was an ideal fit. The pieces displayed throughout the office all came from a versatile series Rob recommended. It will allow Lori to add-on as she grows her staff and still maintain a cohesive look throughout the office. Rowin Partners’ customer service and professional manner were exemplary; they got us a quote quickly, prepared a detailed invoice in no time and met our deadline for delivery. The Rowin team was also patient when we changed gears on some placement at the install. In addition, the Partner’s Pledge program, where they give a percentage of their sale back to the client, in the form of a check made out to the charily of their choice, allowed Woman 2 Woman yet another avenue to aid the community. To find out more about Rowin Partners, or the Partner’s Pledge program, visit rowinpartners.com. As you travel from the lobby and the reception area, you enter a narrow dark hallway. To brighten it up, we transitioned to a lighter shade of paint, Sherwin Williams Macadamia. It flowed well from the neutral in the entry and will allow us to use different color schemes in each of the offices without being overwhelmed. For Lori’s office, I chose Sherwin Williams Wheat Grass. It is a beautiful shade of green with yellow undertones that create a bright and airy feel. A person’s office should tell you about them the moment you enter. I wanted her office to reflect how amazing she is! I chose some contemporary abstract metal wall sculptures to reflect her creativity, some bold glittery floral artwork to underline her sparkly personality and a series of colorful unique glass vases that reflect her beautiful spirit (all these great pieces were provided by Eclectic House). Her chairs are upholstered in a fun geometric pattern that pulls the green in the walls, the chocolate

brown from the reception area and the aqua from sales department. (Even when you don’t visually see all the spaces in the office at the same time, utilizing a cohesive color palette throughout a space helps it to have a great feel and flow.) The small scale geometric pattern is fun and whimsical. Lori always like to have fun whatever she is doing. Situated between her two client chairs is a brown, leather-textured side table that looks like alligator (don’t mess with the boss ). This provides texture and interest. Lori’s espresso finished desk, tall credenza and rounded working arm all form a Ushaped work center that lets you know she is a lady that works hard and means business. The design allows plenty of surface area to spread out and create. She also needed plenty of file drawers and storage space. We chose an ergonomic chair for those long hours she puts in to produce all her great magazines. Even her lighting is a reflection of her; it consists of an under-mount task light that allows her to see everything practically and clearly and a funky geometric cutout lamp that screams style to shed some creative light on the nontraditional projects at hand. Her panel drapes are a dramatic black satiny fabric. They appear to be solid; but, have subtle diamond patterns when you get up close (kind of like the women Lori writes about, there is more to the story when you know the details). They are hung on a strong black iron rod and for fun the ends were capped with fancy jeweled finials. Lori exudes strength and loves her bling!! There are also elements of nature throughout the office – a moss covered sphere tops her bookcase and fern-like plants jut out of her egg-plant colored vases. A bookcase for housing all her treasures was a must have! Not only can she store her signed books from her favorite authors, but she can display pictures of her fabulous family, keepsakes from terrific friends and inspirational quotes and uplifting scriptures to remind her of her priorities. Stay tuned for Phase II!!

Mandy Summers is the Owner/Certified Interior Decorator of M. Gallery Interiors located in the Old Mill of Lexington. Visit www.mgalleryinteriors.net. For more photos of our office makeover, visit the Charleston Woman Magazine facebook page!

www.charlestonwomanonline.com

Meet the Doctor DR. R. JASON J. HEHR

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by Lori Samples Duncan photography by Tammy Bevins Photography

Jason J. Hehr grew up playing hockey in Western Canada and received a hockey scholarship to Northern Michigan University, where he graduated with a degree in bio chemistry. “I planned on becoming a dentist when I was young,” recalls Dr. Hehr. “I took a stick in the face and lost three teeth. I ended up in the hospital and the doctors couldn’t do anything for me, so I went to the dentist office, where they extracted some teeth and did a little temporary bridge. I was about fourteen at the time and I knew I wasn’t going to be able to play hockey forever. At that point, I decided that I was going to be in the dental field.”

After college, Dr. Hehr played semiprofessional hockey for five years, ending that career in Charleston with the Carolina Stingrays. They won a championship in 1997, and he and his wife Tracey (who he met while she was in nursing school at Northern Michigan) loved the area. (He teased she was looking for someone to practice starting IV’s on) When they found out about the dental school in Charleston, and after his wife suggested that he “get a real job,” they decided to make Charleston their home. Today Jason and Tracey live in Charleston with their twins,

Sheldon and Isabella. Dr. Hehr has been in private practice since 2008 as an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, and he opened his current office in Charleston last December. “We wanted a contemporary and state of the art design but keeping it warm,” says Dr. Hehr on his new office. Making use of this great space is easy with its flowing floor plan. The break room opens up to the outside where there is a grill area, so when Dr. Hehr needs to entertain it is easily turned into an event venue. “We wanted everywww.charlestonwomanonline.com

‘...my patients understand that if they need me, I am accessible.’ — Dr. Jason J. Hehr

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Extreme Makeovers

thing wide open and right out in the middle so our patients can see how clean and sterile everything is, like a surgical kitchen. It was important that we give our patients a real sense of confidence.

The thought of “Oral Surgery” can be very fearful to many people. This is not the case with Dr. Hehr’s patients. They may be nervous when they walk in, but that nervousness quickly fades away once they meet him. We have never seen another Doctor take as much time as he does with his patients. Not only does he thoroughly explain the procedure(s), but also assures that the patient is comfortable and trusts him. He truly cares about his patients. When he designed our new office, patient comfort was one of the cornerstones. He is the most compassionate person we have ever met. He goes out of his way to meet the individual needs of each staff member. He believes that a happy staff makes for happy patients. We strive everyday to maintain that same level of personal care he provides to his patients. — the staff of R. Jason J. Hehr, DMD Oral Surgery

With high ceilings and soft chocolate walls, Hehr Oral Surgery is a state of the art facility that has the feel of a fine restaurant, right down to the beautiful team of women on staff, one of which is Dr. Hehr’s lovely wife, Tracey. It could have been his parents influence in this, as they owned restaurants when he was growing up. In addition to treatment for wisdom teeth, dental implants, anesthesia, facial injury, performance mouthwear, snoring and sleep apnea, and oral pathology, Dr. Hehr administers Botox and derma fillers. He says it is a good idea to have wisdom teeth checked out around 14 or 15, or after the removal of braces. High school is a good time to have them looked at before entering college.” Oral surgeons are on call 24 hours a day and often for many hospitals. He shares this responsibility with other oral surgeons in the area and said, “my patients understand that if they need me, I am accessible.”

Hehr Oral Surgery accepts every insurance plan and pre authorizes treatment, even for emergencies. “We only collect the co-pay for our clients up front. And we do our best to get the money from the insurance company. We want our patients to feel confident that they are not going to have to pay more than necessary, so we have one staff member who is solely dedicated to dealing with the insurance company.” It was clear from the moment that I entered Dr. Hehr’s practice that this is more than a career for Dr. Hehr. His handpicked staff, the attention to every detail from the interior of the waiting area to the touch less hand dryer in the bathroom was evidence of his commitment to his patients and their needs for a comfortable and sterile environment. We wish Dr. Hehr and his team much success! If you or someone you know is in need of, wisdom tooth removal, dental implants or even a little Botox, we suggest that you give Dr. Hehr and his team a call. I know that you will feel comfortable and be taken care of very well. For more information, visit his website at www.hehroralsurgery.com. www.charlestonwomanonline.com

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Health & Wellness

A “Monthly” Makeover

he weather is getting warmer, school is almost done, and another hot Charleston summer is upon us. It’s almost time to break out the swimsuits for long days at the beach, neighborhood pool parties, boat rides on the lake, and fun at the waterpark with the kids. But if you’re dealing with heavy or crampy periods, summertime or even life in general is no day at the beach.

Heavy monthly bleeding is an actual medical condition that affects millions of women, and there are several treatment options available. While heavy monthly bleeding is not usually life threatening, it is very important to discuss with your health care provider. Unfortunately, many women do not seek help for their heavy bleeding because they either think that it is normal or they are not aware of the treatment options. Don’t be one of those women! If you spend a few days each month wrapped up in a cover-up or you just don’t even bother to leave the house because of heavy periods, there is good news for you. Let’s first take a quick trip back to middle school sex ed class when you learned about the fun that we as women get to experience

every 28 days. During a woman’s cycle, her ovaries produce estrogen which builds up the lining of the uterus. When she ovulates, the ovaries then produce both estrogen and progesterone with the progesterone maturing the lining in preparation for a fertilized egg (pregnancy). When this does not occur, there is a rapid decrease in the hormones levels and thus starts the menstrual period as the lining is shed. There are many reasons why women experience heavy periods, including infections, polyps and fibroids, as well as hormonal causes from the irregular function of ovaries. Most of the causes are benign and very treatable. Once your provider narrows down the cause of the condition, he or she can help to find the appropriate treatment.

Every woman is different, and a one-size-fits-all treatment approach does not work when it comes to heavy monthly bleeding. There are several treatment options available, and you should discuss them with your health care provider to find an option that is tailored to your unique situation. Hormonal treatments include the use of specific birth control pills or progesterone IUDs (intrauterine devices) to curb the heavy flow. In addition, there are also nonhormonal medications that can help. If the cause of the condition is polyps or fibroids, your provider may choose to remove these using hysteroscopy, D&C, laparoscopic myomectomy or hysterectomy. Endometrial ablation is an in-office procedure to remove all or

most of the endometrium, the uterine lining that sheds each month causing the bleeding. In our office, endometrial ablation is essentially painless with women returning to normal activities no later than the next day. An end-all solution to heavy monthly bleeding is a hysterectomy, a procedure that has become less invasive with the use of the daVinci Robotic Surgery system. According to Martha Green, a Physicians Assistant specializing in gynecology, “There is no reason why a woman should let heavy monthly bleeding interfere with her normal everyday activities, especially when there are so many treatment options available. You should talk with your health care provider to find the perfect solution for you.”

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Quality Healthcare Helping Patients Live Their Best Life

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Diplomate, American Board of Internal Medicine

(843) 718-2856

We provide prompt, courteous adult primary wellness care and chronic disease management, for many common health issues

9279 Medical Plaza Drive, Suite C North Charleston, South Carolina 29406

Monday through Thursday: 8:30am - 4:30pm Friday: 8:30am - 12pm

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Women • Pregnancy • Pediatrics • Stress Relief • Massage Therapy Give us a call at (843) 641-7075 for a FREE consultation with Dr. Quinn and get started living a healthier happier life! www.scfamilywellness.com • 2070 Northbrook Blvd, Suite B-5 • North Charleston, SC 29406

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Monday-Friday 10:00 am-6:00 pm Saturday 8:30 am-12:00 pm Locally Owned • Most insurances are accepted

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(843) 797-5711 217 St. James Avenue, Suite A5 • Goose Creek, SC

20/20 VISION CENTER

by Elaine Samples

photos by Tammy Bevins Photography

icki Chamberlain knows prescription eyewear. She graduated from high school in June 1978 and started working in a lab that made glasses that October. Vicki enjoyed the trade so much that she decided to work for an optician and became an apprentice under Billy Hodges, under whose leadership she learned the trade, took the necessary tests, and became licensed. She worked for Mr. Hodges for seventeen years, and then began her own business when he passed away.

Vicki met her husband in 1981 (thirty years later and they are still married) and together they have one son, whose wife Heather apprenticed under Vicki and is now a licensed optician as well. Vicki opened 20/20 Vision Center on St. James Avenue in March 2000 and they just celebrated their twelve year anniversary: “I would like to thank all of my many customers and friends for supporting 2020 over the last twelve years.” Vicki loves providing people with what they need, “People who need glasses have to wear these glasses every single day.” She also enjoys getting to know her clients and finds working with the public very satisfying.

The website for 20/20 Vision Center (www.2020visioncenter.yolasite.com/) opens with Vicki’s voice questioning the audience, “Did you know that 84% of adults wear sunglasses, 64% wear prescription eyeglasses, and 20% wear contact lenses? Add in another 14% or more that wear reading glasses and you’ve got a lot of people with vision needs.” An eye doctor once told me that our eyes were never meant to stare at a computer screen for hours and hours every day, but the fact that many of us do has resulted in the need for eyewear for a lot of people. “The benefit of coming to us for your eyewear needs,” says Vicki, “is experience. We have three opticians on staff and going to places

where turnover is high, you may be seeing someone completely different each time you visit. Those places do not train their staff as specifically as our office does. We pride ourselves in knowing what to do and how to do it, because we are all capable of helping each individual with their specific needs. Our service is exceptional. We know our customers, and they know when they return they will be seeing us.” 20/20 Vision Center offers a large selection of women and men’s frames, as well as children and even babies, including theatrical and colored contact lenses. Most insurance plans are accepted, including Medicaid, and they offer discounts to customers who do

Vicki Chamberlain ‘The benefit of coming to us for your eyewear needs is experience.’ not have insurance benefits. Vicki and her staff are sensitive to budget restrictions and are able to repair broken glasses, solder and other minor repairs onsite, where larger chain stores may not offer onsite repair. With 32 years of experience, you can trust Vicki for all of your vision needs. www.charlestonwomanonline.com

HORMONES

and The Body

photo by Tammy Bevins Photography

H Dr. Lori Lyles HRC Medical Centers have many years of experience supplementing and replacing reproductive hormones as these levels begin to decline. We use blood test, medical history and body weight to help guide each individual patient’s treatment. The “balance” of these reproductive hormones is critical to optimize our health and to achieve the most available benefits with the fewest side effects. HRC Medical provides our patients with hormones that are compounded from all-natural products. They are structurally identical to the hormones produced within the human body from a functioning ovary or testicle and are delivered throughout the body from small pellets that are placed under the skin. This is the only delivery system that has the ability to provide balanced hormones daily for up to four months.

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ormones effect every cell in our body. (And, that’s about 100 trillion cells!) Inside the cell, hormones trigger the cell to perform their intended functions. Many functions are dependent on this hormonal trigger such as energy production, memory, muscle strength and development, sex drive, bone growth, sleep cycle, etc. As hormone levels decline, these function also gradually decline, known as menopause in a woman and andropause in a man.

HRC Medical has selected a compounding company called Masterpharm Pharmaceuticals to supply our compounded products. Masterpharm specializes in the formulation of medicines and supplements that are not commercially available. They use state-of-the-art technology so that the finished product meets exact specifications. Compounds are prepared, stored, and shipped under environmental and government standards to ensure purity and quality. Masterpharm Pharmaceuticals is a leader in research in development that actively participates in consultation and patient care. HRC Medical focuses on supplementation and replacement of reproductive hormones. We use hormones with chemically molecular structure identical to those produced by the body. They are compounded from plant based

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The ‘balance’ of these reproductive hormones is critical to optimize our health... derivatives and are easily recognized and processed by the human body. These chemically identical products have been safely and successfully used throughout the U.S., Europe and Japan for over 80 years. Many research studies have shown proven benefits and dependable safety profiles when used properly. An initial evaluation includes a product introduction and consultation followed by bloodwork. The

bloodwork is then evaluated by our physician in consultation with the patient and a plan for treatment is established. Female patients suffering from hormone decline often complain of hot flashes, night sweats, sleeplessness, irritability, dry vagina, decreased libido, poor memory, body aches, decreased energy, and many other problems that significantly affect their quality of life. These patients will benefit from supplementing their estrogen, progesterone and even the testosterone which will also decline as we age. Male patients may complain of sleeplessness, decreased energy, poor focus and concentration, loss of muscle mass, weight gain, erectile dysfunction and depression. Males with these complaints often benefit from testosterone supplementation. A careful analysis of bloodwork, medical history and

Health & Wellness photo by Tammy Bevins Photography

Let HRC Medical show you how you can live a longer, healthier, productive life. a symptom profile can be used to establish a plan for therapy resulting in incredible improvement in quality of life. Let HRC Medical show you how you can live a longer, healthier, productive life. Maintain your cognitive function, vitality and stamina, “being the best that you can be!” Call (843) 606-1313 or visit www.hrcmedical.com for a free consultation. To evaluate your symptoms and see more results, visit AmorVieTest.com.

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Health & Wellness

PALMETTO PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIANS WELCOMES GI SPECIALIST, EXPANDS SPECIALTY CARE

aron Domm, MD has joined Palmetto Primary Care Physicians as the group’s Gastroenterologist Specialist. In early 2011, Palmetto Primary Care Physicians became a multi-specialty practice that now includes 47 primary care physicians, 2 neurologists, a sleep lab specialist, a vein specialist and now, with the addition of Dr. Domm – a GI specialist.

“GI disorders are among the most common type of complaint among our patients,” states David Castellone, M. D., the group’s president, “Dr. Domm will be able to help us close that gap in care. Our patients will receive a multi-disciplinary approach to treatment and with the care coordination between their family physician and GI specialist, they won’t feel ‘lost’ in a system”. While Summerville GI just opened its doors at the beginning of April, Dr. Domm has treated patients in the Lowcountry since 2008 and is well respected within the medical community. He underwent his GI training at UCLA before moving

from California to Charleston in 2007. Prior to his GI fellowship, Dr. Domm served as Chief Resident while receiving his Internal Medicine training at Rush Medical Center in Chicago. He attended the Medical College of Ohio for medical school.

screening, reflux, diarrhea, abdominal pain, IBS, liver disorders and inflammatory bowel diseases. With the addition of Dr. Domm, Palmetto Primary Care Physicians patients will have a specialist dedicated to digestive health — both preventative and therapeutic.

In addition, Dr. Domm has received advanced training in endoscopic ultrasound from the Medical University of South Carolina. Endoscopic ultrasound is a procedure used to diagnose, stage, and treat GI cancers.

“I am excited to join a progressive physicians group that finds value in care coordination among specialty practices,” states Dr. Domm. “Moving my practice full time to Summerville will provide easier access for patients both to my clinic and procedures in the Tri-County area. I look forward to becoming a part of Palmetto Primary Care and the Summerville community.” Summerville GI is located at 300 West 4th North Street.

A GI Specialist can diagnose and treat several gastrointestinal problems including colon cancer

‘I am excited to join a progressive physicians group that finds value in care coordination among specialty practices.’ — Dr. Aaron Domm

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For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Aaron Domm, call (843) 376-0670 or visit their website at www.palmettoprimarycare.com.

About Palmetto Primary Care Physicians Palmetto Primary Care Physicians (PPCP) is a group practice comprised of nearly 73 clinical providers with a wide range of expertise in primary and specialty care including internal medicine, gastroenterology, neurology, sports medicine, disease management and acute illness. PPCP provides patient-centered services such as a state-of-the-art urgent care clinic and diagnostic center that is open 365 days a year and a Nurses Triage Line that is available to patients 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The company has over 550 employees in the Lowcountry and provides exceptional medical care for our patients through 28 physicians offices. For more information, visit www.palmettoprimarycare.com.

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Jessica Araya

{ SURVIVOR } A Breast Cancer

by Elaine Samples

C h a r l e s t o n Wo man c e l e b r a t e s t h e s u r v i vo r i n yo u

essica Araya is one of five ladies in the Midlands known to many as a Ta-tini, a young group of breast cancer survivors who found each other for mutual support, and spread the word of awareness and hope to far too many people touched by the disease.

Jessica’s story is familiar to many. Maybe not her personal story, but the normal, happy life of a young wife and mother of two. She was a trainer at Gold’s Gym, and in excellent shape. After the birth of her second child, the 25 year old decided to have a procedure to put a couple things back into place, you might say. About six weeks after the surgery, she noticed a knot across the top of one of her breasts. Initially, the doctors thought it may have been related to her procedure and that there was nothing to worry about. Perhaps a cyst or piece of scar tissue. By early October, it had grown across the top of her breast. Even the doctor performing the biopsy thought there was little

cause for concern. On Halloween of 2007, she received the news that they were wrong.

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Jessica at the age of twenty-six was diagnosed with a four centimeter lump and stage two cancer, and this normal, happy life was forever changed. Changed, indeed. However, Jessica was resigned not to be labeled a victim. She went through pre-op chemo so the doctors could observe the effects it would have on her. When her hair started to come out, she and her kids shaved her head. Before her surgery in March of 2008, she elected to have a “Farewell Boobies Party.” With only Women

three weeks, Jessica and friends planned and threw the first Fight Like A Girl event, which has since become a powerful annual event hosted by the Ta-tinis to raise money and awareness. Like many great friendships, hers with the four other members of the group that would be the Ta-tinis was quite random. She attended a support group with Mandy Bowden one evening. At the meeting were two people – Kim Hamrick was one of them. Amy Kinard she met at Dicks sporting goods. It wasn’t long after that when she, Kim, Amy, Brittney, and Mandy came to the conclusion that “when life gave us cancer, we had a mar-

tini,” or something of the sort, and the Ta-tinis were born. Late in 2008, Jessica relocated to Tallahassee, Florida, for not only the next phase of her life, but a second diagnosis. In July 2009, she learned again that had cancer. This time it was stage four cancer in her sternum. After various opinions, including the experienced doctors of MD Anderson, she began four rounds of chemo in November, and in March of 2010 began thirtyfive rounds of radiation over eight weeks in Orlando. This meant she would spend the weeks near treatment centers several hours away from her Tallahassee home and return to her kids on the weekends.

Like many great friendships, hers with the four other members of the group that would be the Ta-tinis was quite random. In July 2010, Jessica learned the cancer had spread to her spine and the doctors gave her six to twelve months to live. She soon learned that if given a “death sentence” by doctors, one can “cash in” her life insurance for an amount equal to half of its value. So Jessica cashed in. And she and a cousin traveled to London, Paris, Amsterdam, Italy and Germany. With little time left, she decided she may as well see things she had always hoped to see. In December, 2011, she and her friends Beth Renwick and Kelly Turbeville traveled to Costa Rica for some rest and relaxation. They enjoyed the beauty of the country, went zip lining and rode horses to the hot springs. Jessica joked with her friends, “Won’t it be funny if this mud bath cures

my cancer?” On the last night of their trip, Jessica met Roy Araya, a dashing young local. Roy asked her to come back for visits, so she did. And on March 22, they were married. Back in the States on January 31, Jessica learned from her doctor that there was no sign of cancer in her entire body! Jessica’s dad, who had gone with her to all of her doctor visits, cried in her presence for the first time. “He looked at me and said, ‘These are tears of joy,’” remembers Jessica.

A special thanks to the West Ashley Coaching Staff for participating in this photo!

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Jessica is so excited to be entering into this new phase of her life with her children and her new husband. And we’ll drink to that! www.charlestonwomanonline.com

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Business & Web Directory Auto Care Holt Transmission Service............................... 5 www.holttransservice.com Child Care Kinder Kids........................................................ 7 www.kinderkidscsra.com Chiropractic Care Total Family Wellness..................................... 26 www.scfamilywellness.com Entertainment Weeki Wachee Springs State Park................... 5 www.weekiwachee.com Eye Care 20/20 Vision Center........................................ 26 www.2020visioncenter.yolasite.com Florist The Blossom Shop Florist............................... 35 www.theblossomshopofsummerville.com

Health Services Back2Health Physical Medicine Clinic.................. Inside Front Cover www.goosecreekchiropractics.com James T. Martin, Jr, MD Obstetrics and Gynecology............................................... 25 www.jmartinmd.com HRC Medical................................................... 29 www.hrcmedical.com R. Jason J. Hehr, DMD Oral Surgery.............. 3 www.hehroralsurgery.com Legacy Internal Medicine............................... 26 Palmetto Primary Care................................... 31 www.palmettoprimarycare.com Trident Health.................................. Back Cover www.tridenthealthsystem.com

Hotel Wingate by Wyndham.................................... 34 www.charlestonwingate.com Insurance Wally Burbage & Associates............................. 6 Photography Clark Berry Photography............................... 18 www.clarkberry.com Tammy Bevins Photography..........................Inside Back Cover www.tammybevinsphotography.com Salon New Creations Salon....................................... 13 www.summervillesalon.com Skin Treatment Southern Cosmetic Laser............................... 11 www.southerncosmeticlaser.com

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A Personal Note

hen I first started Woman 2 Woman, Trey was 8 years old. This past December he turned 16. He is becoming a man. Last year something awful happened.

Our pet, Tonka, a very large black lab who has been a member of our family for more than thirteen years died. One of Trey’s responsibilities in our home is checking on our two animals before we go to bed. This night my husband was at work and Trey went out to make sure their water was fresh and that they were tucked in safe. When he came back inside I knew immediately by the look on his face that something was wrong. He said, “Mom, Tonka is dead.” I hoped he was mistaken but it turned out he wasn’t. It was already dark outside, and our hearts were broken. The other children were sleeping, so Trey and I wrapped Tonka for burial and stood in the dark while our sweet neighbors helped up dig a grave for our four legged friend. Trey would not go to bed until it was done. I watched him as he shoveled the dirt on the grave of his first pet. Pausing only to wipe away the sweat of the humid night mingled with his tears. I am proud of him for many things. He’s a straight A student, a singer, a musician. The tears I cried that night weren’t just for Tonka. I cried for another milestone passed in the life of my son. He was the first of our children to make me a mother. He was the first person I ever loved in my life more than I loved myself. I remember when they laid him in my arms and how my heart swelled. I literally thought I couldn’t hold all the love I had for him inside of me. I remember the tears of joy that Trent and I cried as we looked at ten perfect fingers and toes. I have prayed for each of my children every day of their lives, I wonder if they will ever understand the depth of their parents love.

It hasn’t been an easy year for me as a mother. My daughter was dealt a blow to her self-esteem. I wrapped her in my arms and cried with her, as if it were my own heart was breaking along with hers. I was so certain that she would draw into herself and not continue working hard for what she wanted but I was wrong. She put on her best Abigail Grace smile and has continued to go to her classes with her head held high. Children can be so cruel, and I wanted to photo by Patrick Mooney spare her this hurt. I couldn’t. She amazes me. Sometimes I am hard on her and I understand why. She is all the best parts of both her father and I. I want to help her capture the world. She is a wonderful young lady, and I am so proud of her. She makes me laugh. She’s tender and she’s tough. She reminds me of a lot of the women in my family. Colton had heartbreak as well. He was the victim of a bullying incident. While playing with some children in our neighborhood on a trampoline, apparently what started out as little boys rough housing, turned into two against one. Colton came home with red marks and scrapes all over him within two days was covered in bruises. He wasn’t going to tell me what happened because he was afraid I would not let him go back and play with the neighborhood kids. It broke my heart and his to know that children are capable of such unwarranted cruelty. He is making new friends and finding new ways to spend his afternoons. He hasn’t lost his ability to try and make others feel good about themselves in the midst of adversity. Ryan is the baby. He is learning about God and loves animals. He wants to be a zoo vet when he grows up (for the moment). Yesterday he was outside playing when he came upon a dead lizard and his little heart was broken. He bowed his little head and folded his hands in prayer and began to pray for the lizard. “Dear God, Please bring this lizard back to life.” I was astounded and happy to know that he is learning that God isn’t just who you talk to at bed time and meal times — He is who we call on in times of trouble as well. Oh how I love them. Each one is different; each one needs different things from me. I pray for wisdom in all my decisions regarding them especially. I wish they came with manuals. I know that as parents we want to fix their problems – make it all better, throw money at it, and put a Band-Aid on it when sometimes all we can do is hold them while they cry. Happy Mother’s Day to all of you ladies, to those who have given birth and to those who chose to be Mothers because someone else couldn’t or wouldn’t. God Bless us all. Your friend,

Lori Samples Duncan

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Psalm 127:3 Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward.

E @ A H E R A N = I = V E J C ? = N A *

I’m today’s Trident. =odhe d]o `na]ia` kb âejc ] h]^kn ]j` àheranu jqnoa oej_a oda s]o aecdp ua]no kh`* Oda herao dan `na]i aranu `]u ]p Pneàjp Iaè_]h ?ajpan* =odhe d]o ] lkoepera eil]_p kj aranukja oda iaapoÌej_hqèjc pdkoa lna_ekqo ^]êaoÌ]j` i]gao ep dan ck]h pk aop]^heod pnqop ]j` _kibknp sepd a]_d b]iehu ]o pdau sah_kia pdaen ^]û ejpk pda sknh`*

Í E ]i lnerehaca` pk ^a ] l]np kb oq_d ] ola_e]h peia ej iu l]peajpoÐ herao* E hkra pdeo lh]_a*Î

] j a s p n ] ` e p e k j x sss*pne`ajpda]hpdouopai*_ki